Category Archives: BB Creams

Sugar Cosmetics Goddess of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream Review, Swatches

Sugar Cosmetics Goddess of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream Review, Swatches

Sugar Cosmetics Goddess of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

Sugar Cosmetics has launched BB Creams today.

Claims: For all the times you’ve struggled to perfect the “no-makeup” makeup look, there is now an answer! Introducing the SUGAR Goddess Of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream whose ultra-lightweight formula sinks into the skin with the ease of a moisturiser while shielding it against the sun with its in-built SPF30+ protection. With a luxurious matte finish that guarantees an entire day with a sweat-free face, you now have front-row access to beautiful glowing skin! So go ahead – bin your primer, foundation, moisturiser and sunscreen – because, this little beauty does it all and delivers a flawless finish in one simple step.

How to Apply: Start with a pea sized amount. Using your fingertips, dab it onto any problem areas, particularly underneath your eyes. Then slowly begin blending in a circular motion. Once you’ve finished covering up your trouble spots, grab a foundation brush to apply the rest of your product. Evenly distribute the BB cream across your face, making sure to blend well.

Benefits: Blendable, lightweight and mattifying, the SUGAR Goddess Of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream provides sheer, long-lasting coverage. This product is dermatologically tested & approved and 100% safe for your skin.

MRP: Rs.799/- for 25ml (Buy HERE)

GET DISCOUNT USING ‘BTXSUGAR’ on https://in.sugarcosmetics.com

It’s made in USA.

It comes in 4 shades:

  • Latte (Light)
  • Macchiato (Medium)
  • Chococcino (Medium Tan)
  • Americano (Tan)

It comes in black tube packaging, it has a seal when you first open it. The texture is very silicony, it feels like a primer. It blends easily and gives a velvet matte finish, it fills in all your pores and evens out the skin tone covering any redness. It gives light coverage, and it won’t cover your acne scars or dark circles, you would need a concealer for that.

The shades are not enough to cover all skin tones. I am usually in the mid – 2 or 3 but no. 1 Latte works well for me in this. I can even use 2 at times. I am NC37 and there are so many lighter than me who might not find a shade match. Even the darkest shade does not cover the deepest Indian skin tone. All the shades match the medium skin tone well, from yellow to pink undertones.

I like the fact that it fills the pores and gives a matte finish, plus has an SPF30+. It’s perfect for everyday use, this is more like a tinted primer with sunscreen. It works well as a primer underneath your makeup.

Here are the swatches..

L-R: Latte, Macchiato. Chococcino, Americano

This is how the shade Latte looks on me.

It stays put through the day and I didn’t have to powder my face in between, though I used it while I was on my holiday and it wasn’t that humid. But I really like the staying power and velvet matte look it gives.

It is slightly on the expensive side, but you don’t need a lot of product, just a pea sized amount is enough. I would recommend it, especially for oily skin. If you have dry skin, you can use it with a moisturizer underneath.

Do let me know your thoughts. Have you tried the Sugar BB cream yet?

Best BB Creams for Summer

Best BB Creams for Summer

These days the harsh summers are unrelenting in their heat, so each one must take care of their skin from breaking too. BB creams hence are a total rage as different brands in India have presented new formulations and new types that suit diverse skin tones and types. BB stands for a beauty balm and even some context, a blemish balm.

BB creams are multi-taskers as they are all-rounders when talking about an all-round cream that can moisturize, protect the skin from sun and even work as a foundation. It is a moisturizer, primer, sunscreen, and foundation rolled all in one. Although they cannot conceal major flaws, but can even out skin tones easily. They are a boon for working women, who must face the harsh sun, work for long hours, and even suffer from faded skin due to too much exposure. Some women are BB cream junkies, and have literally tried almost every option available in the market. Although you might have failed to find the ideal BB cream for your own skin type, one can pick up one from the following list of the best BB creams that are effective this summer.

⦁ Maybelline Clear Glow Shine Free BB Stick

The BB stick is a favorite of many people during summers. If you have oily skin and need light to medium coverage with a brilliant matte effect, then this stick can deliver it. It also allows for quick application in a few strokes and the glow will always be there. There only 2 shades available for the stick though.

⦁ Garnier All in one Miracle Perfector BB Cream

This BB cream is great budget option that delivers the much-needed glow during summers. It can even out the skin tone beautifully and all people who have oily or normal skin can use it. It comes in a single shade but is perfect for all skin tones.

⦁ Ponds White Beauty BB + Fairness Cream

This Ponds cream is capable enough to brighten up the skin instantly with good coverage option for concealing minor flaws. The cream boasts of SPF 30 that is suitable for all skin types and lasts for about 6-7 hours. Its single shade will suit light to medium skin tones too.

⦁ Deborah Milano 5 in 1 BB Cream

This BB cream provides great coverage with a matte finish while also providing 6 whopping shades to choose from.

⦁ MAC Prep and Prime Beauty Balm – SPF 35

This prime beauty balm is an ideal BB cream for many as it consists of multiple shades along with high SPF. Although it is pricey, its features and range offers bang for the buck.

⦁ Maybelline Clear Glow BB Cream

This version is different than the stick version as if offers an ideal BB cream for normal to dry skin. Additionally, consumers prefer it owing to its low coverage and availability in three shades. Certainly, one of the favorites!

⦁ Colorbar Perfect Match Beauty Balm

Colorbar is a perfect BB for oily skin and in places where humidity is quite high. The balm can balance out skin tone giving out a warm, brightening effect. Although its price is not low-end, it certainly makes waves as a near-affordable option for people with oily skin.

⦁ L’oreal Paris True Match Skin Idealizing BB Cream

Now here is a BB cream that is indeed workable as its name suggests. It has a velvet finish and hence it is ideal for use on all skin types. It adapts to your skin tone very well looking very natural and is available in 3 shades.

⦁ Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream

This brand is from Korea and is known to be one of the most effective BB creams, certainly ranking as one of the very best. The good part is that the cream comes in 5 shades, with SPF 42. It is compatible with all types of skins and perfect for summers.

⦁ Clinique Age Defense BB Cream with SPF 30

The age defense BB cream includes several anti-oxidants, which repair skin and is also known for the amount of coverage and its SPF of 30 perfect for normal as well as oily skin. This is one BB cream that is priced high but certainly a favorite for anyone who do not feel price is any issue.

The above list includes some of the best BB creams in the country which are available at Shoppers Stop.

Which one is your favourite?

Top 10 BB/CC Creams in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 BB/CC Creams in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Summer always calls for less makeup products on the face and we always prefer skipping the foundation. However, we still need something to look fresh, bright and that would even out the skin tone. So, the best option is BB/CC cream. BB means beauty balm which enhances the skin and brightens it while CC stands for complexion care and hides the minor blemishes and gives an even look to the skin. It is great for day time and office wear as well with its light weight and super absorbing formula. So, let us see the top 10 BB/CC creams in India.

1. Maybelline Clearglow Shine Free BB Stick: Price- Rs.250 for 10g (Review HERE)

Maybelline Clearglow BB Stick is a great choice for oily/combination skin, especially this summer. It has a mineral clay formula which guarantees 12hr shine control and contains the goodness of Salicylic acid to manage combination & oily skin. It never clogs the pores or suffocate the skin and has a beautiful sweat-resistant and sebum – resistant formula leaves the skin fresh all day long. It also contains SPF 21/PA+++ that protects skin from sun damage. It blends well and has sheer to buildable coverage. Downside is, it is only available in 2 shades.

2. Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector: Price- Rs 99 for 18g (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

It comes in a tube packaging with a creamy texture. However, the consistency is neither too runny in texture nor too thick. With its light weight texture, it is a comfortable emollient but non-greasy texture. It blends seamless without any streakiness or patchiness and gives a very sheer coverage. It adds a very soft glow to the skin and astonishingly wears quite long and well suited for oily to combination skin. You can also use it as a tinted moisturizer and the price point is extremely good. Further, it is enriched with UVA/UVB protection with SPF 24. The only downside is, it comes in a single shade.

3. Lakme CC Cream: Price- Rs.275 for 30ml (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

Lakme CC Cream comes in a beige colored tube with a silver screw on cap. It has a slightly tight texture but surprisingly, it bends quite flawlessly on the skin and gives an extremely natural and airbrushed finish. It almost feel nothing and gives a soft matte finish which does not look dry or cakey, accentuating on fine lines. It gives light to medium coverage and evens out the skin tone and you can also layer it without the fear of looking unnatural. It also provides a brightening effect but a subtle one. It is long wearing and works great for every skin type.

4. Colorbar Perfect Match Beauty Balm: Price- Rs. 550 for 29g (Review HERE)

This is undoubtedly the best BB cream in India. It is available in 3shades with broad spectrum sun protection (UVA and UVB – SPF 20). The tube packaging is great with the texture of a creamy-mousse and blends on the skin like a dream. It gives a matte finish with a light coverage which looks really natural and you can happily skip the foundation. The yellow undertones compliments and brightens the skin pretty well and has a long wearing formula of around 4- 5hours without any touch ups. The product is also paraben-free.

5. Deborah Milano 5 in 1 BB Cream: Price- Rs 625 for 30ml

Deborah Milano Claims: 5-in- 1 BB CREAM has a soft, fluid consistency that allows for as little or as much coverage as required, without ever looking cakey. It is available in 6 shades which is great for a BB Cream in India. It has a matte finish which is ideal for oily and combination skin. It conceals and minimizes imperfections like dark spots and pigmentation and evens out skin tone while also protects it against UV radiation and pollution. It has a long wearing formula and wears even long when touchups with powder or blotting sheets are done.

6. Ponds White Beauty BB+ Fairness Cream: Price- Rs 140 for 18g (Buy HERE)

Ponds White Beauty BB+ Fairness Cream is quite a budget friendly one. It comes in white tube with screw cap. The cream is enriched with a powerful mix of Vitamin B3, Vitamin E, Allantoin and advanced superior sunscreen protection of SPF 30 PA++. The BB Cream blends well on the skin to give a natural semi-matte finish and effectively hides minor blemishes and also brightens up the skin. The consistency is great and can be mixed with a foundation for better coverage as well. It works best for normal to dry skin and oily skin in winters only. However, the cream is available in only 1 shade which won’t suit everybody.

7. L’Oréal Paris True Match Skin Idealizing BB Cream: Price- Rs 550 for 30ml (Review HERE)

This is an ideal BB Cream for dry skin and comes with a high SPF of SPF 35+++ that also shields skin against environmental assault. Sometimes it may cast a whitish cast but after 10-15mins it happily adapts to the skin tone. It blends well and seamless on the skin and also brightens up the skin, adds a soft glow while being almost matte when set with a powder. Further, the skin is enriched with anti-ageing active ingredients to smoothen out skin’s texture. It also has a wearing formula of around 4-5hours with little touchups.

8. MAC Prep + Prime Beauty Balm: Price- Rs.2100 for 40ml

This Prep + Prime BB Cream SPF 35 by M.A.C. is one of the best high end option. It has a light weight liquid, but not runny, consistency and blends best with a duo fibre brush or Beauty Blender sponge, hiding pigmentation and dark spots very well and keeps the skin shiny and moisturized during the whole day. It has a nice flowery fruity scent to it as well. You require a very less amount of product and it is also long wearing on the skin as well even in summers.

9. Clinique Age Defense BB Cream with SPF30 – Price-Rs. 1900

Clinique products are always counted among the best ones and this Age Defense BB Cream is no exception. It has SPF of 30 that protects the skin well. it has three shades which suits pretty well without any ghastly whitish cast. The consistency is a bit thick and product is 100% allergy tested and fragrance free. It provides medium coverage and also brightens up the skin tone for a daytime look. This BB Cream is well suited for oily to acne prone skin and have antioxidants. You can also use this as a day cream as well.

10. Bobbi Brown BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF35 – Price- Rs.3000

This multitasking formula perfects skin in various ways, like, it covers imperfections and evens skin tone, draws moisture to skin (well suited for normal to dry skin) brightens dullness instantly and over time, helps reduce the look of wrinkles (antioxidants and skin repair ingredients) and shields skin against damaging UVA/UVB rays with SPF 35. It is available in a wide shade range for all skin tones (available in 9 shades with distinct yellow tones) from fair to dark and won’t disappoint you at all.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely love the Ponds BB Cream, it matches me perfectly and the coverage is super! One of my friend swear by the Chanel CC Cream, so would like to include that too as a recommendation.

Which is your favourite BB/CC Cream?

Colorbar Perfect Match BB Beauty Balm Review, Swatches

Colorbar Perfect Match BB Beauty Balm Review, Swatches

By Devika

Hi beautyholics!!!

Hope you all are doing well. Summers are here in full swing and carrying a full coverage makeup base such as a foundation and concealer becomes a task especially for everyday go to looks. One just can’t stand by putting on thick layers of base. But we can’t skip it as we do need a sheer flawless look too. As I was facing hard time in sweaty summer days I decided to give a BB cream a shot and I chose COLORBAR PERFECT MATCH BB BEAUTY BALM (vanilla crème)WITH SPF 20 and how it fared for me let’s find out!!

Price 550 INR for 29 gm (BUY HERE)

Shelf life is of 30 months

Availability: Across all colorbar counters and also online at amazon , flipkart ,nykaa, jabong

Ingredients:

Colorbar Claims: Makeup and skincare come together to create a perfect match! This multi-benefit beauty balm hydrates, smoothes , protects, and corrects skin with sheer coverage in one effortless step. Enhanced with a blend of potent botanicals and antioxidants, the fresh and airy formula boosts luminosity, diminishes the signs of aging and repairs uneven skin tone while protecting it with broad-spectrum sun protection.

Description: Created using ‘Perfect Match’ technology which makes the BB cream adapt to your skin tone and blend perfectly. It provides sheer coverage with radiant glow.

  •  Paraben free, safe for all skin type
  • Contains Apple Extract and Aloe Vera for nourshing, protecting and moisturising skin
  • Contains SPF20 with UVA/UVB filters for broad spectrum sun protection
  • Actives from USA

Packaging is quite simple. It comes in a broad, rectangular, flattened, opaque skin colored, squeeze tube packaging (with product claim printed) with a silver colored rectangular twist off lid with shade name and number labelled. It is enclosed in the typical colorbar silver rectangular cardboard packaging with product claims and ingredients written. It is travel friendly and perfect for carrying to work. Packaging definitely is quite big for the small quantity it carries. The nozzle of the tube and the tube itself becomes dirty and looks gross just in a few days of usage

Shades – Colorbar Perfect Match BB Cream comes in 3 shades Vanilla Creme, Honey Glaze & Cinnamon Swirl. The shade which I own is 001- Vanilla Crème and it is perfect for my medium to fair skin tone. As far as the color is concerned, the shade looks warm when swatched but once applied, it sets into my perfect shade without giving a white cast.

Texture: The formula is creamy, whippy and a pea sized drop is enough for your entire face and goes on smoothly without settling into fine lines. Blends quite well into the skin without leaving white cast behind and gives a beautiful matte finish. The product is enriched with antioxidants and SPF 20 so it is great for everyday use without having to worry about daily use of foundations and concealers. It gives you near flawless coverage. It does not make the skin appear cakey or blotchy; however it dries quickly so you have to be quick with blending. I use my fingers to push the product into the skin. Formula is non greasy, matte and feels comfortable on my oily to combination acne prone skin but for my dry skin ladies I would suggest to use a good moisturizer beneath. I have been using it for quite a long time now and I haven’t faced any breakouts with it.

Pigmentation and coverage: The coverage is more towards the sheer side, perfect for daily usage. It won’t cover up imperfections, but blur them to a certain degree giving a natural look. Those having dark circles might need to use a concealer but I skip it usually. It gives a very natural, glowing look to my face and feels very light on the face. It doesn’t melt with sweat. Well, this cream claims to repair the skin as well, but I didn’t notice any such change in my skin but yes my acne prone skin hasn’t broken out yet. Though it has a SPF of 20 but I do apply a layer of sunscreen as the sun rays are way too sharp these days. It has a fresh fragrance which faints after a while.

Staying power: It lasts on me for good 5 hours, with the T zone getting shiny after about 3 hours so it slides away from there faster, but I top the BB cream with compact on most days, and then I am set for the whole day. On rest of the face it stays on for good 5+ hours

Pros:

  • Easy, convenient packaging
  • Keeps my face oil free for 5-6 hours.
  • Blends effortlessly
  • No parabens.
  • Doesn’t settle in fine lines or pores.
  • Didn’t break me out.
  • Light texture
  • Hides minor imperfections
  • Enriched with SPF 20 and antioxidants.
  • 3 Shades to choose from
  • Easily available.

Cons

  • Won’t conceal acne, blemishes or under eye circles.
  • Dry skinned ladies need to apply a moisturizer beneath it
  • Didn’t repair my skin, unlike its claims.
  • Packaging acquires an old look very quickly
  • Priced on the higher side
  • SPF should have been more than 20
  • Dries quickly so you have to be careful not to take too long for application of the cream.

Overall

I absolutely love the way this Colorbar Perfect Match BB Cream evens out my oily skin and makes it look so matte. This product is suitable for those who doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of putting layers of concealers and foundations every day for causal purposes. Just grab it, dab it and rush to work!!SPF 20 is an added advantage and no breakouts with this one so a big thumbs up. Though Price is the only downside as we know how affordable other BB creams are in market.

Will I buy it again? The coverage of this particular BB Cream for daily wear is beautiful and I really like this product so yes, I will definitely pick this one up again. Give it a try and you will not be disappointed.

Rating: 4/5

Editor’s Note: That’s a very nice and detailed review Devika. This sounds quite good.

Have you tried the Colorbar BB Cream yet?

Beauty/Makeup Haul: Nykaa & Amazon

Beauty/Makeup Haul: Nykaa & Amazon

Hi guys,

I got some stuff from Nykaa and Amazon, it’s been a few months though that I recorded this video. I was waiting since a long time to upload it coz it was something or the other coming up in between.

Sorry I forgot to use the mic in the first half, so the focus noise 🙁

Let’s see what all I picked from Nykaa.com

Whisper Sanitary Pad Ultra Clean XL Wings (30S) – Rs. 310
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Corrective Unclogging Anti Imperfection Care (40ml) – Rs. 1300
Free La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel
Maybelline Color Sensational Pink Alert in POW4 3.9gm – Rs. 425
L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick in Spring Rossette 4.2gm – Rs. 740 (On discount :p)
Colorbar Definer Lip Liner in Berry Rose 1.45gm – Rs. 599
Tangle Teezer Compact Styler Detangling Brush- Purple/Black – Rs. 1099 (It’s expensive :o)
Hill Fresh Grapefruit Rush Body Wash 200ml – Rs. 199
Oisis Make Me Happy Bath & Shower Gel 300ml – Rs. 249
2 of Bare Essentials Nail Polish Remover Pads – Rs. 198 (99 each)
Lux Velvet Touch Moisturizing Body Wash 100ml – Rs. 120
Vega Premium Eyelash Curler – Rs. 99
Fair & Lovely BB Cream 9gm – Rs. 49
Basicare Self Holding Rollers Large (Pack Of 4) – Rs. 200
Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser – Rs. 95
Aroma Magic Turmeric Cleanser – Rs. 135
Christine Valmy Val Clean II 50ml – Rs. 195

And coming to Amazon.in, if you have noticed Amazon started with their luxury beauty department where they stock all high end brands. I got a chance to try out the luxury beauty department and this is what I got:

Kama Ayurveda Mridual Soap-Free Facial Cleanser 40g- Rs.295/-
Forest Essentials Kashmiri Saffron and Neem Delicate Facial Cleanser 200ml – Rs. 975

I wanted to try these both since a long time but never really went to the store for just 1 product and you know how it is with Forest Essentials, once you go into the store, you want everything and get confused most of the times 😀 I am glad we can buy these Luxury Beauty brands including a few which are not available in India, on Amazon.in now 🙂

I hope you liked my haul, do let me know if you want any specific review first. I will try and use them before, coz there are still a few reviews in line already :/

What is your favourite product? What did you shop recently?

March Fab Bag Review + Giveaway

March Fab Bag Review + Giveaway

Hey guys,

Remember Vellvette Box..it was the first beauty box in India. Later on, it changed their name and revamped to Fab Bag.

About Fab Bag: At FAB BAG, we are beauty experts and addicts driven by our passion for high quality beauty products and delightful service. We recognize that our members are beauty enthusiastic women looking for great products that would work for their specific beauty needs and tastes, but do not have enough time, access or resources to try out and experience all that is available. We work hard in association with brands to select 3 amazing products exclusively customized for each member and send them in a delightful box to her doorstep every month, so that she never has to make the expensive mistake of buying products that do not work for her! We also advise members on how to make the best use of these products and keep them abreast of the latest beauty and fashion trends and insider know-how through our magazine.

MRP: Rs.599/- per month

You also get discounts on 6 months and 12 months subscription. Currently they are giving a Deborah Milano Atomic Lipstick free with 6-months subscription and Clinique Blush/Eyeshadow mini palette with 12-months subscription. Subscribe HERE

I love the concept of bags how they have a different customized bag each month according to the monthly theme. Also these bags are pretty useful and handy for travel,etc when you want to carry some basic makeup/skincare

For the month of March, they have a Woman’s Day Special Fab Bag. It’s a cute bright pink pouch with a Coco Chanel quote and also they are running a campaign called #MakeupForDifference where you can leave a message here http://fabbag.com/makeupfordifference/ and for every message, Rs.50/- shall be donated on your behalf to these inspiring Fab Women.

Let’s have a look at the contents of my March Fab Bag:

  • Inveda BB Cream in Fair- Full size (Rs.140/- for 15ml)
  • SoultTree Kajal in Pure Black- A special 3g packaging (Rs.340/- for 5g)
  • Palladio Herbal Lipstick in Rosey Plum- Full size (Rs.650/-)
  • Sebastian Professional Hydre Shampoo- 50ml (Rs.1400/- for 250ml)
  • Fashionography Earrings

To start with the Inveda BB cream, its quiet nice and good for everyday use. Only issue being just 2 shades available: Fair and Matt

I have tried the SoulTree Kajal before, the Pure Black is much smoother than other colors which go on a little hard. Also its all natural and organic made from ghee and camphor, but if you are looking for something smudge free, this won’t help at all.

I loved a full sized lipstick in the bag, though I wish I would have got some other matte shade. This shade Rosey Plum has shimmer and I am not a fan of shimmer.

I like the Sebastian shampoo deluxe size and would be carrying it for my next travel.

Absolutely loved these cute butterfly blue earrings from Fashionography.

Overall, some hits and misses. Though more of hits for the price of Rs.599/-. I absolutely recommend giving Fab Bag a try.

Coming to the giveaway now, one of you lucky one wins this March Fab Bag. I am hosting a giveaway for the same,on my Instagram.

All you need to do is follow me HERE and Fab Bag on Instagram and repost the first image tagging 2 of your friends. The giveaway starts right now and ends after a week on 25th March.

Good Luck 🙂

The Body Shop Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream Review, Swatches

The Body Shop Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: Perfect your complexion and fight the look of blemishes with our Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream. This dual action cream gives you flawless coverage whilst tackling the appearance of blemishes. Formulated with purifying Community Fair Trade organic tea tree oil from Kenya. – Blemishes and imperfections are instantly covered – Lightweight formula gives shine-free complexion – 3 shades blend seamlessly into all skin tones for natural-looking coverage.

MRP: Rs.1095/- for 40ml

How to use: Squeeze BB cream onto fingertips and spread all over face until fully blended. Alternatively, dot gently onto emergency blemishes for on the spot coverage. TOP TIP: For best results, use our Tea Tree Pore Minimiser before applying BB Cream for spotless-looking skin with pores that look smaller and skin that appears smoother and more mattified!

Ingredients:

Shades Available: 01 Light, 02 Medium, 03 Dark

Here are the swatches of all three shades.

I have the shade 02 which is an almost perfect match for me. 01 had grey undertones, so I would have gone with 02 anyways.

It comes in a small green tube packaging with a beige flip cap. Its small and handy to carry around.

The texture is very soft, it feels like butter (maybe coz of shea butter) and spreads like it too. Just that you need to blend it in well. Its very light weight and does’nt feel like you have applied something on the skin. Gives medium coverage and reduces appearance of redness,etc. It won’t give complete coverage or help with acne scars or dark circles.

Its more like a tinted moisturiser. Stays put whole day, but since its quite rich in texture (coz of shea butter and soyabean oil), one needs to set it with a powder or it might look shiny.

I think its good for everyday use and also the tea tree oil would help against further acne. It has a strong tea tree oil smell which is apparent from the time you squeeze the product out.

Here it is on me.

I do not agree on the complete coverage of acne or blemishes it claims. And also its expensive for the qty coz if you use it everyday, it might last just month or a week above.

Overall, I did like it but not very satisfied with the price tag and qty. And also oily skin needs to powder on top. I would say ‘can try’.

Rating: 3.25/5

You can buy it HERE.

Have you tried The Body Shop Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream ?

Everyday Skincare & Makeup Products on a Budget

Everyday Skincare & Makeup Products on a Budget

Hey everyone,

So as many of you know that I am nominated for the Elle Beauty Awards ‘Blogger of the Year’ 2014, we had an interesting challenge in round 2.

We had to buy skincare and makeup products which we use on an everyday basis i.e our ‘daily’ ‘face’ stuff within the budget of Rs.5000/-

And since we had to buy only from Jabong and from the brands available on the site, it added up to the challenge 🙂

This is the perfect kit for you, if you are in college and surviving on pocket money and don’t have big bucks to spend on luxury products. Spending big bucks is not even required actually, you can create a nice kit for yourself within this budget.

For brides to be, this also makes a part of my Bridal Diaries. If you are someone who was never into skincare and makeup, then this kit would work for you too. Or if you want to buy stuff for your trousseau within the budget of Rs.5000/-

I  have linked products to their reviews which I have already reviewed on my blog before or have given my 2 cents here on products I have used, but not reviewed yet.

So here we go..

1. Ponds White beauty Naturals Spot Less lightening Cream- Rs199 for 50g

Reason: Super light in texture with no greasiness. Has camellia (Green Tea) leaf extract, niacinmide and tocopheryl acetate which help in fading spots and regeneration of skin cells. Added bonus: SPF (titanium dioxide aluminum hydroxide stearic acid). This can be your perfect affordable daily moisturizer.

2. VICHY Normaderm 3-In-1 Cleanser – Rs.450/- for 50ml

Reason: A unique combination of Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid and 25% Clay with a soothing agent. Use it as a cleanser/face wash or a scrub or apply a thin layer as a mask. The blend of salicylic acid and clay is perfect for oily skin and prevents from breakouts. Glycolic acid helps in mild exfoliation. I won’t recommend it using everyday. For everyday use, a mild cleanser like the Auravedic Saffron Almond one we selected, is good. But its perfect to use for a weekly scrub/face pack. It dries quickly too, not taking too much of your time. If you use it weekly, its going to last long and turns economical for its multiple uses.

3. VLCC Lip Balm Strawberry- Rs.125 for 10g

Reason : Heals chapped lips. Smells nice (Strawberry fragrance). Gives a pretty pink tint.Added bonus: SPF10

4. L’Oreal Paris Uv Perfect Aqua Essence Sunscreen Moisturiser- Rs.475/- fro 30ml (Review HERE)

Reason: A Sunscreen with good SPF protection is a must. Whether you are in your teens or in your 30’s, you need to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Aqua Essence has SPF 30 PA+++ UVB UVA protection with a PPD of 15.5. It also has Advanced Mexoryl XL Filters (only found in L’Oreal Paris sunscreens- this and Vichy Capital Soleil which is on the expensive side) that protect against broad spectrum UVA/UVB rays, Adenosine that repairs deep skin damage and fights wrinkles, and Vitamin E that helps fight against free radicals and external stress. It also hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Best part: It somewhat protects skin from tanning too.

5. Forest Essentials Facial Tonic Pure Rose Water Facial Mist- Rs.575 for 100ml

Reason: Natural toner. 100% Steam Distilled Rose Water. Alcohol based toners rip the moisture from the skin. One should go for alcohol free toners as much as possible. It cools, soothes and moisturizes the skin. You can also carry it along in your bag. (You need one in the Mumbai heat especially in summers!)

6.Biotique Bio Almond Oil Soothing Face Eye Make Up Cleanser – Rs.149 for 120 Ml

Reason: It’s a blend of almond, castor, sunflower and few other oils. Oils are always the best makeup remover one can use. It melts off toughest of your waterproof mascara. No stinging or burning. One of the pretty decent and affordable makeup removers in the market.

7. Maybelline Colossal Kajal 12 Hour Smudge Resistant – Rs. 175 (Review HERE)

Reason: One of the deepest and most pigmented rich black kajals in India right now. It stays whole day and hardly smudges. I recommend this to everyone all the time. Does’nt even hurt the pocket at 175. Best budget buy for college girls too. I guess most of us love our kajal and lip balms and swear by it everyday whether you in college or working. This is definitely a must have!

8. Maybelline Vex Falsies Waterproof Mascara- Rs.425

Reason: Who has the time and patience to apply falsies and remove them everyday ?! But we still want those fluttery, long lashes right ? Well, look no further. Maybelline Falsies Mascara is the answer. With 2 coats of this, you get a false lash effect! I mean it. Do try it for yourself. And at 425 if you get killer long lashes, it does not hurt, right ? :p

9. Maybelline Hyper Sharp Liner- Rs.425 (Review HERE)

Reason : No reasons are enough for this baby. Its my favourite liner ever. Pigmented. Stays long. Perfect stiff tip. And the hypersharp tip gives the thinnest most defined lines to more thicker wings. It also does not dry up quickly and works as good as new for a long long time.

10. Maybelline Color Sensational Mirrored Mauve High Shine Lip Gloss- Rs.350 for 5ml (Review HERE and HERE)

Reason: Pigmented, High shine, Affordable, Good qty, Non Shimmery, Prettiest Nude Mauve shade ever. This is bang on for your everyday wear whether for work or a day out with your girlfriends.

11.Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush- Fresh Coral- Rs.275 (Review HERE)

Reason: If you have to include one affordable blush in your kit, it has to be Maybelline Cheeky Glow. Its matte, smooth, pigmented and long staying. 7g of quantity would last for a long time. Fresh Coral is a warm coral pink and gives that ‘just out of the gym’ healthy pink flush. One of the best budget blushes in India.

12. Street Wear Color Rich Perfection Compact Powder- Rs.160 for 7g

Reason: Cute packaging again. Provides medium coverage and controls oil and shine. Thoughtful hygienic packaging, the separator in between prevents the foam applicator from getting dirty. No more expectations at this price and quantity. Again a perfect budget everyday compact.

13. Street Wear Color Rich 11-Pink Passion Lipstick- Rs.180 for 4.2g

Reason : Street Wear has nailed it with this latest Color Rich Range and these Ultra Moist lipsticks are the best in the collection. Cute packaging. Semi matte texture, Long staying power, Economical price and quantity. A perfect bright pink shade to perk up your evenings or weekends. Psstt: It’s a dupe of MAC Flat Out Fabulous 😀 I am sure you want this in your kit! Plus it won’t pinch your pocket.

14. Ponds White Beauty Blemish Balm Cream- Rs.125/- for 18G

Reason: A BB Cream that also acts as a moisturizer and sunscreen and gives amazing coverage! Gimme! I use it everyday. Its one of my favourite BB creams out of the lot in the market right now. It has Vitamin B3, Vitamin E and Allantoin which helps against pigmentation and heals the old scars/spots faster. Has SPF30PA++. The shade suits me perfectly and the coverage is medium, more than any other BB creams. Stays put the whole day. The silicones in it make it work as an eye shadow primer too!! Beat that. And all for this price is fantastic.

15. & 16. Auravedic Revitalizing Face Care- Rs.325 for a combo of 2 products (Pulpy Saffron Almond Face wash and Pure Aloe Vera Gel) (Review HERE and HERE)

Reason: Both the products separately cost you a little more, so buying a combo means savings 😉 The Radiance by Nature is one of the best face washes I have personally tried and recommend. Its made up of natural ingredients and a blend of essential oils. No SLS or parabens. Chemical and color free. Cleanses skin well leaving no dryness or stretchiness. There is a neem and tea tree variant for oily skin and a rose and saffron variant for dry skin. And 50g lasts really long. Total value for money.

Pure Aloe Vera Gel is packed with green tea and pomegranate extracts and a blend of essential oils again like lemon, avocado, grapeseed, olive. Its super cooling and gel like in texture. Smells amazing. Keep it in the fridge in the summers and apply it whenever your skin feels dehydrated or thirsty. I am sure you will love this refreshing cold aloe gel in the harsh summers. No preservatives and chemicals. Also recommended to be used as a hair styling/shaving gel. I personally use it post waxing/threading coz it instantly soothes and reduces the redness on the skin. Quite a multi tasker this is!

17. Auravedic Almond & Grapeseed Night Repair Cream- Rs.350 for 100g

Reason: Skin cells are the most active and repair itself during the night time. The whole regeneration of new skin cells takes place during night. A rich, heavy night cream with some essential nutrients is a must have. It nourishes your skin inside out and also helps delay signs of ageing. This rich night cream has almond butter, grapefruit oil and few other essential oils. Auravedic has no SLS,parabens or chemicals. And you need just a tiny bit, so 100g would last you really long. But investing in a good night cream is a must. It is as important as a sunscreen.

18. Star’s Cosmetics Bronze-2 Pressed Eye Shadow Rs.195/- for 1.66G

Reason: Even if you are not a daily eyeshadow person, you need one bronze/gold shadow in your kit. Indian weddings are when you will need it the most. Or just smoke it out with a black kohl base for a night out. Instant glam!

Overall View: I think it was an interesting challenge. I included everything necessary from skin care to makeup used in day to day life. (and covering weekends/occasions too) A total of 18 products,and also saved on some bucks (Though 27 :D)

Skin care: Face wash, Toner ( Facial Mist), Moisturizer, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Makeup Remover, Night Cream, 3 in 1 (Cleanser, Scrub, Mask) for your weekly pampering, Pure Aloe Vera Gel for shaving/post waxing,etc.

Makeup: BB Cream, Compact Powder, Lipstick, Lip Gloss, Blush, Kohl Pencil, Liquid Pen Eyeliner, Mascara, Eye shadow.

I have not included nail paints, shower gel,shampoo, conditioner, hair serum/oils coz it was ‘daily face’. You need to add those too which will be another 750 bucks approximately.

I hope you liked my kit. If you did, I would love for you to vote for me HERE. Just click on the heart under my name ‘Bhumika Thakkar’ and it will turn red 🙂 Or you can tweet to @elleindia with the hashtag #EBA2014. Thanks in advance.

 What all would you include in your kit within the budget of Rs.5000 ?

Lakme CC Cream Review, Swatches, FOTD

Lakme CC Cream Beige Review, Swatches, FOTD
What the Company claims: Lakmé CC stands for Complexion Care cream. It combines the goodness of your daily skin cream with just the right touch of make-up to give you that perfect look in just a few minutes.

Its skin care benefits include sun protection (SPF 20), moisturizing, brightening and freshness while its make-up benefits are an even skin tone and basic coverage.

MRP: Rs.250/- for 30g

Shades Available: Beige and Bronze

How to use:

Ingredients:

It comes in a nice attractive gold and pink tube packaging..and it can be seen and felt that the quantity is good enough too..it does not squeeze inside the cap and is very much travel friendly.

It has a light floral smell..and one needs only a pea sized amount of this..and the coverage it provides is pretty good..much better than other tinted moisturisers in the market..I would say more than Maybelline, Revlon and Garnier BB and almost equal to the Ponds and L’oreal BB..here I compared them all 😀

Its not that moisturising..and tends to give a matte look..oily skinned beauties would love this..I feel a need to use a separate moisturiser..if I don’t, it clings to dry patches.

And the shade Beige is a little lighter for me..in this pic below I have used Beige..Bronze is slightly darker for me..I really feel there should have been one more mid shade in between the two and that would have worked perfectly for me..Beige would suit NC 30-35 and Bronze would suit NC 40-42. The mid people should have been thought of..are you listening Lakme ??

Pros:

1. Lovely packaging.
2. Economical.
3. Pretty good coverage.
4. A good enough quantity.
5. Gives a semi matte finish..great for oily skinned girls.
6. Stays for 5-6 hours after which a slight touch up is needed.
7. Has SPF 20..though not much..but little added protection.

Cons:

1. Cannot skip a moisturiser..clings to dry patches.
2. Beige is lighter and Bronze is darker..a mid shade is surely required !

Overall I would say its pretty good..and a boon for girls with oily skin…I guess Bronze would be a shade high in demand..and would suit most of the girls..a perfect daily use CC cream to your rescue. Recommended !

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall Rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Yes..I think I will have to mix Beige and Bronze and use :p I wish they come up with a mid shade, though I doubt that :/

Have you tried the Lakme CC Cream  ? Your thoughts ?

Skin79 Orange BB Cream Review, Swatches

Skin79 Vital Orange BB Cream Review, Swatches

I have been so caught up with everything..the backlog of posts is like ever increasing..I am too late in posting this Vital Orange BB Cream Review..but better late than never..so lets start..Super Plus Triple Functions BB Vital Cream

MRP: $ 31.00 for 40g

What the Company claims: Upgraded Sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection SPF50. Strengthen’s skin NMF and maintain balanced skin condition. Osmopur-N and Vital-V Complex soothe and protect skin from harmful environments for a moisturized, healthy skin.

Ingredients:

It comes in the same round chubby tub with pump packaging as the Hot Pink one..it does not have a grey undertone like the Hot Pink but is definitely quite light ! This is more suitable for pale skin..

Check out Skin79 Hot Pink BB Cream Review HERE and Skin79 BB Cleanser Review HERE

This gives completely matte finish unlike the Hot Pink which is a little dewy..this would suit oily skin..stays for a good 6-7 hours..and you just need a tiny amount..it gives medium to full coverage and is buildable..I like the fact that it offers SPF50 protection.

Pros:

1. Gives medium to full coverage.
2. Ideal for oily skin as gives a matte finish..and there is no need for touch ups atleast for 4-5 hours..
3. Has SPF50 protection.
4. It claims to maintain a balanced skin condition and soothe and protect skin…well I am not sure of that..but this feels quite light on the skin..and you do not feel as if you are wearing anything..does feel natural..only if there were more suitable shades 🙁
5. Would last a real long time as you need just a tiny bit.
6. Has many good ingredients like extracts of rosemary, chamomile, grapefruit, aloe vera and rice bran oil, soybean oil, rosemary oil,etc
7. Cute packaging and easy to use pump dispensor.

Cons:

1. Too pale for our skin tones..this does not work with blending too..i.e the difference is too obvious.
2. May not suit dry skin.
3. Has parabens.

Overall I love the packaging of these Skin79 BB Creams and how this one gives a good enough coverage and has SPF50..this feels quite light on the skin too..only had it been available in more shades..it would have been a super winner..

If you are pale and have oily skin, grab this now !

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3/5

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Would I buy it again: No..since it is too light for me..

Have you tried Skin79 BB Creams ?