Category Archives: Home Remedies

Benefits of Papaya for Skin and Hair

Benefits of Papaya for Skin and Hair

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Benefits of Papaya for Skin and Hair

By Sanchita

Papaya is called the “The Fruit of the Angels” and it is a native to the tropical areas of Central America and Southern Mexico. Today, it is a popular fruit and often known as ‘papita’ in Hindi.

This amazing fruit is enriched in vitamins A, C, E and K and has various other antioxidant properties. Consuming the fruit will not only give you amazing skin and hair but it has various beauty benefits as well. It is applied on the skin and hair for natural beauty.

The various benefits and uses of Papaya for Skin are as follows –

Removal of sun tan – This is a common problem for summer. Our skin is prone to tanning and looks dull. The papaya has vitamins A and C in abundance along with a enzyme called ‘papain’. This helps to lighten the complexion, removing sun tan and dark spots with the passage of time. Simply make a thick paste of papaya and add honey and turmeric to it. Apply this face pack every day in a week and see how it improves the skin.

Skin hydration – Papaya is rich in water content and has various other elements as well which helps to keep the skin soft, smooth and moisturized. The hydration is smooth and will not clog the pores or make the skin look oily. Simply, blend ½ cup of ripe papaya into a fine paste, add honey and apply evenly on skin. Wash off after 20-25mins.

Anti-ageing – Papaya is anti-ageing in nature. It has vitamins C and E to rejuvenate the skin and the papaya skin has various enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. As a result, the age spots and wrinkles are prevented and removed. It also contains Retin-A which help reduce the signs of aging. Overall, you get younger looking skin with bright and radiant skin tone. Mash ½ cup of overripe papaya, add honey and yogurt and apply as a face mask. Wash off after 20-25 mins. You can also rub the skin of papaya for better results.

Prevention of acne and pimples – Papaya has an enzyme called papain that has natural skin- cleansing properties, which helps to get rid of clogged pores and greasiness. The exfoliating effect helps in preventing blackheads. The enzyme helps in preventing acne and improving the skin as well. It also helps to soothe the inflamed skin. Simply, apply a thin layer of ripe papaya pulp as face mask and leave on for 20mins. Wash off with cold water and pat the skin dry.

Brighten complexion and removal of dark spots – This is one of the most effective beauty benefits of papaya. The papain helps to lighten the dark spots, giving a bright and radiant complexion. It is known that papaya contains natural bleaching properties. The vitamin C has anti-oxidant properties and also helps in clearing the skin of impurities. Rub a fleshy part of ripe papaya every alternative days and wash off with cold water.

The various benefits and uses of Papaya for Hair are as follows –

Soft and healthy hair – The papaya is also very helpful for lustrous, healthy hair. It is enriched in several minerals, vitamins and enzymes that can improve hair growth and strength. Along with that, it will also help to thicken the hair and the protein in papaya reduces split ends. To prepare a papaya hair mask, blend a ripe papaya according to your hair length and mix with olive oil or almond oil. Apply this all over the hair, from root to tip and keep it for 30-40mins. Wash off with mild shampoo.

Reduces dandruff – Papaya helps in reducing dandruff and prevents dry scalp. It has various antifungal properties. Even the seeds of papaya prevents fungal infection. Blend ½ papaya with the seeds intact and apply the paste generously on the scalp. Leave it on for one hour and then shampoo as usual.

Caution –

  • Always do a patch test before using it on skin and hair.
  • Papaya can cause allergic reactions in some people, which might due to papain or the latex.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using excessive papaya.

Editor’s Note: Loved the DIY and tips Sanchita

Do you use papaya for your skin and hair?

Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

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Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

By Nidhal

The bright red-coloured, minuscule strands of saffron (called Kesar in Hindi) are exactly what you need to incorporate in your skin care regimen. Saffron is one spice that is capable of burning a hole in your pocket. It is used for adding flavour to dishes. It is a rich source of health benefit nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, foliate and minerals like zinc, potassium and sodium that rejuvenate skin cells and promote the regeneration of new cells. It helps in the removal dark spots and blemishes.

So, let us concoct some skin treats from the comforts of your kitchen using saffron (kesar).

1. SAFFRON, RAW MILK & BESAN MASK

Saffron is an excellent skin toning agent. It helps in eliminating blackheads and unclogs clogged skin pores. Saffron also scavenges free radicals and promotes better circulation of blood, thereby ensuring that skin looks toned and firm.

Raw milk, rich in B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and other potent antioxidants, has innumerable skin benefits! It works to nourish skin cells from deep within and keep skin moisturized for long. Besan is used to cleanse and exfoliate skin.

PROCEDURE- Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for two hours. After that, the colour of the concoction will turn yellow wholly provided the saffron you have used is authentic. Add a tbsp. or two of besan flour and mix well. Apply on your face as well as neck. Let it dry for around 30 minutes and then, wash off. Feel rejuvenated, don’t you?

2. SAFFRON & CURD MASK

Packed with various vitamins such as A, C, and the B vitamins, saffron-the wonder ingredient is known to possess skin brightening properties. Acne and pimples can leave behind scars that take a long time to fade. Using curd and teaming it up with saffron will speed up the process of healing. Sounds exciting?

PROCEDURE- It is as simple as it gets. Just soak 3-4 strands of saffron in a heaped tbsp. of curd/yoghurt for two hours. Post two hours, the concoction will turn yellow completely given that the saffron you have purchased is authentic. Smear it generously on your face as well as neck. Let it dry. It will take around half an hour to dry. After this, wash off your face with adequate cold water.

3. SAFFRON, MILK & SANDALWOOD POWDER MASK

The inherent anti-inflammatory nature of saffron arising from the high presence of antioxidants enables saffron to be used as a potent tool against various skin conditions such as pimples, acne, and Rosacea. To top it all, if we have milk (raw one please) which boosts collagen production, slows down fine lines and wrinkles, protects skin from free radicals that cause premature aging, helps fade dark spots and marks, reduces acne and promotes skin elasticity, you know it’s going to be “Good times” for your largest organ aka your skin. Finally, sandalwood powder owing to its fragrant and soothing aroma will act as the binding agent in this recipe. It also absorbs excess oil off one’s face and neck. Time to cheer oil-skinned ladies, isn’t it?

PROCEDURE-Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for about two hours. Add a heaped tbsp. of pure sandalwood powder (known as Chandan powder in Hindi) and mix well. Once a smooth and consistent paste id formed, generously daub a fine layer of it on your skin. It will take around 30 minutes to dry solely. Wash off with cold water and admire the newfound glow.

4. SAFFRON, ROSE WATER & COCONUT MILK MASK

The moisture absorbing and enhancing nature of saffron makes it an ideal home remedy for dry, chapped and rough skin. On the other hand, we have rose water (known as Gulab Jal in Hindi) which helps to maintain skin’s pH balance, fight acne, dermatitis and eczema.

Rose water also hydrates, revitalizes and moisturizes skin. It helps to tone one’s skin. It also helps to revitalize aging skin and keeps fine lines at bay. So many virtues rolled into one! Didn’t that get you ecstatic? Add to this, coconut milk needs no elaboration when it comes to moisturisation.

PROCEDURE- In a tbsp. of pure rose water, add 3-4 saffron strands. Let them soak into it for 2 hours. Finally, add a tbsp. of coconut milk. The final/resulting concoction will be predominantly liquid. That goes without saying that application would be messy but do not fret. You’ll be blown away by the results if not immediately then, definitely over a couple of uses periodically.

10 Ways To Get Soft, Pink Lips Naturally | Lighten Dark Lips

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10 Ways To Get Soft, Pink Lips Naturally | Lighten Dark Lips

Guest Post by Disha

Who doesn’t want soft, supple, pink lips? We all do! But instead most of us have to suffer with their dryness and pigmentation. This happens because we fail to take care of them. When your lips are dark and dry, they get itchy and you cannot even apply lipstick properly! No one is a fan of that I am sure. To get naturally pink lips one needs to take care of their lips and there are a lot of ways to that. And believe me they are all very easy and can blend into your skin care regime effortlessly. Apart from being doable they are so effective that you wouldn’t even need to use your MAC lipstick in the shade Please Me to give you the appearance of naturally soft and pink lips. So, here are 10 ways in which you can do so.

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the key ladies! It helps get rid of dead skin and dirt. All you need is a toothbrush. Yes a toothbrush has more uses than just brushing your teeth. Just be careful that the one you choose has soft brittles so that it doesn’t hurt your lips. So wet your toothbrush a little and then gently rub it on your lips in circular motions.

2. Choose Lip Balm With SPF

As we all know the UV rays from the sun do harm our skin and for that we apply a sunscreen lotion but do we do something for our lips? No we don’t. Hence, always choose a lip balm that has a decent amount of SPF in it. This way your lips will be hydrated and at the same time protected.

3. Drink Water

I feel drinking water can solve most of your health problems. You need to keep your body hydrated. So drinking 6-8 glasses of water everyday is beneficial for your whole body. But when it comes to your lips, keeping yourself hydrated will moisturize them and make them supple.

4. Milk and Pomegranate

You know how pomegranates have a lot of pigment in them. So why not use them for your lips? This following method with lighten dark lips and give them a natural pink tone. Crush pomegranate seeds and add some cold milk in such a way that when mixed together, a paste like consistency is achieved. Then apply it to your lips. Let it stay and after around 10-15 minutes wash it off.

5. Removing Makeup

Yes we have all heard that never sleep with makeup on but how many of us really follow it? Before going to bed make sure that you have completely taken off the lip liner and lipstick and applied a lip balm. This will hydrate your lips throughout the night. Whereas keeping on lipstick all night long can darken your lips.

6. Lemon and Sugar

This one acts as a scrub as well lip-lightening agent. Take a lemon slice and put sugar on it. Then gently rub this on your lips. Lemon is a good bleaching agent hence it will lighten your lips whereas sugar will exfoliate it. So this combination is enough to make your lips pink.

7. Cucumber Slice

We all know cucumber is very cooling and has a soothing effect. So rub a cucumber slice on your lips which will instantly refresh them and make them pink on doing this frequently.

8. Aloe Vera Gel

This can act as a great lip balm. Take some aloe vera gel and store it in the refrigerator. It helps in soothing your lips, generating new cells and protects from harmful rays of the sun. You can just directly use it as a lip balm everyday.

9. Glycerin and Lemon Juice

Take 2-3 drops of lemon juice and glycerin and mix them together. Use this mixture as an overnight lip mask. While glycerin will hydrate your lips, lemon will lighten it.

10. Coriander Leaves

Take a few coriander leaves and crush them. You can also put in little water/milk if you like. Then apply it on your lips and let it stay for a while. After about 20-30 minutes, wash it off. Coriander leaves help in lightening your lips.

I told you all of them were easy ways! Weren’t they? They are very doable. Choose any method or methods and stick to them. Make sure whichever ones you choose, you follow them regularly for best results. Voila! You got yourself soft and pink lips.

Author Bio: Disha is a passionate health, fashion & beauty enthusiast. She is the founder and editor- in-chief of DivasWorld. Her blog, DivasWorld covers beauty, makeup, fashion and lots more!

Onion Juice For Hair – 5 Benefits & Ways to Use

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Onion Juice For Hair – 5 Benefits & Ways to Use

By Nidhal

The list of hair woes is endless. However, there is one wonder ingredient in your pantry that can rescue your mane from all the trouble. It’s none other than the good Ol’ onion. Don’t believe? Have a look at its benefits for your mane. Jot down these benefits of onion for hair so that the next time you suffer from any hair woe that can be combated by use of onion juice, you have something to refer to which will bring you back to me, hopefully thanking me.

1. ARRESTS HAIR FALL- Tried every possible product and home remedy to somehow arrest your crowning glory’s strands fall like wilted leaves off your head? Dissatisfied still? Give a shot to onion juice. Onion is a rich source of sulphur, which is extremely beneficial for healthy hair growth. It prevents hair breakage and accelerates regrowth of hair.

PROCEDURE- Gently massaging the fresh juice of an onion or two onto the scalp helps increase blood circulation, thereby strengthening the hair follicles. Be patient and persistent as I always say. I understand that saying this is a cakewalk and being in the shoes of the person suffering is a Herculean task but stressing will aggravate the situation all the more. Follow the regimen for at least two months twitch a week.

2. BID ADIEU TO PREMATURE GREYING OF HAIR- Does your face pucker on seeing those hideous white strands making a peak-a- boo out of nowhere from your scalp as you stroke your mane with your fingers or spruce it up? Head to the pantry and raid it for an onion. Premature greying of hair is caused as a natural antioxidant- catalase reduces. Onion helps control this problem by increasing catalase. Simply chop an onion (Devdas alert!)

PROCEDURE- Strain it well to remove all the chunks and using a cotton ball dipped wholly into the juice of the onion, slather it generously all over your scalp focussing a little more on the area where you have white hair strands. Wash off your hair after half an hour and shampoo as usual. Since onion juice is entirely liquid, it will be a messy affair. Repeat twice a week for two months and anticipate positive results with bated breath.

3. BID FAREWELL TO SCALP INFECTIONS AND PARASITES- Remember class 8 th science which introduced you to the world of parasites and hosts? Let me save you the hassle of recalling it. Parasites are creatures that ‘live off’ hosts. They derive everything from shelter to nutrition from the host without giving anything positive in return. In other words, the parasite gets to be a free-loader! And we do not entertain such creatures especially if they are on our scalp. To do away with such parasites inhabiting our scalp, this time we will rely upon ‘onions’.

PROCEDURE- Simply grind and sieve them to extract their juice. Mix it with amla powder (which has a rich content of Vitamin C). Apply using a cotton swab and then, wash your hair with plenty water. Onions have anti-bacterial properties which is useful in getting rid of scalp infections and parasites while amla will strengthen the locks.

4. IMPARTS SHINE TO YOUR TRESSES- I tried it once and was thrilled to see how lustrous my locks looked after washing off the juice. The first use itself threw results, however, this point is subjective but there is no denying that onion juice imparts a winsome glow to your mane. Onion belongs to the Allium family and is enriched with sulphur-containing compounds that are responsible for its pungent taste and odour.

PROCEDURE- Simply mix adequate onion juice with reetha powder and curd. Keep it on your hair for about half an hour and then wash off using a mild shampoo and conditioner. Repeat twice a week to acclimatize your hair and scalp to these ingredients. If you wish to add/subtract any ingredient that you think suits your hair, you are welcome to do so.

5. STRENGTHENS YOU MANE- Onion juice is very rich in Sulphur content. Application of the juice to the scalp stimulates and improves blood circulation. Hair grows from the follicles in the scalp. The next time you feel your hair is losing its strength, head no further than your very own pantry.

PROCEDURE- To use, simply chop and strain the juice of an onion. Mix with shikakai powder. Apply on your scalp and rinse thoroughly after half an hour. Shampoo and condition as usual. Repeat twice a week for at least two months.

Editor’s Note: These are some interesting DIY’s Nidhal, I will surely try

Have you tried using onion juice for your hair?

Best Aloe Vera Face Packs to get Clear, Glowing Skin

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Best Aloe Vera Face Packs to get Clear, Glowing Skin

By Nidhal

It’s juicy. It’s succulent. It’s tender. It is a magic potion for your skin and hair. If consumed on a regular basis, it endows your body with a whole range of vital nutrients. It comes packed in tubs, tubes and bottles but that’s as good as a paper airplane in the name of defence equipment! It’s not real. Raw/real Aloe vera displays the tendency to turn stale within half an hour of being extracted.

Naturally the one in tubs, tubes or bottles would either be conspicuously fake or pumped with an overwhelmingly large number of chemicals. In the name of revitalising our skin, why then go for something that is just gel and nowhere as nourishing as our real Aloe Vera is?

Today, I will enlist a few tried-and- tested face masks with real Aloe Vera that you can easily whip at home to nurture your skin from within

1. ALOE VERA & HONEY MASK

The secret of Aloe Vera lies in its long, tender, succulent leaves – it is this gel that makes aloe vera a magical plant. It contains a host of beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, lectins and mannans etc. The main constituent of Aloe Vera is water but it also packs inside a bulk of minerals, vitamins and many active compounds which will leave your skin nourished and refreshed.

Honey, on the other hand, being a humectant (moisture binding agent) traps in moisture and doesn’t let your skin feel dry or stretchy.

PROCEDURE- Simply extract the gel of a whole Aloe vera plant and add half the quantity of raw (preferably Manuka) honey to whatsoever quantity of Aloe Vera gel you’ve extracted. Mix, apply and wash after 15 minutes. Since the mask contains honey, it won’t dry up solely so, there’s no point in sitting with it for hours. At most, half an hour is suggested after which Aloe vera would tend to be infested by bacteria.

2. ALOE VERA & CURD MASK

Known to be a peerless retainer of one’s skin’s firmness, Aloe vera in combination with curd that has lactic acid and hence, efficacious in lightening scars, spots, freckles, marks, blemishes, etc. is a wonderful mask to kick away spots and dullness. It also raises radiance.

PROCEDURE- As usual, extract the gel of an Aloe Vera plant (a single leaf would be sufficient) painstakingly and add two tbsp. of curd to it. Mix both well, massage on your skin gently and let it stay for 15-20 minutes or till it gets dry completely. Wash off with ample cold water to reveal brighter and energised face.

3. ALOE VERA, BESAN & HALDI POWDER MASK

The humble Aloe Vera gel has anti-microbial properties which spells cheer. Why? Because that makes it ideal to treat acne and pimples. Did I just see acne-prone ladies cavort excitedly on reading this? Besan helps to sort sallow complexion thereby evening out skin tone. Haldi makes for an excellent instant skin brightening ingredient that you just cannot skip in this recipe. I would suggest using either Kasthoori Haldi or Amba Haldi because these two variants are exclusively crafted for skin care and won’t turn your skin yellow if applied a little in excess (of course, don’t add an entire pack of Haldi just to ascertain the level at which your skin would turn yellow)

PROCEDURE- Simply extract Aloe vera’s gel off a leaf. Add a tsp of Kasthoori haldi or Amba haldi as well as besan. Mix well, apply and wash off within 15-20 minutes. Do not keep any Aloe vera face mask for more than half an hour. It gets infested by bacteria. You may not feel it but its nutritive value surely diminishes.

4. ALOE VERA, MILK & RICE FLOUR MASK

This mask comes to rescue to those who are battling sunburns. Aloe vera helps reduce inflammation and when teamed up with milk (that is high in lactic acid which lightens blemishes and deep cleanses skin) and rice flour (which helps to even out complexion), there’s surely no way your sunburn would stay for long.

PROCEDURE- Simply mix adequate amount of raw Aloe vera gel in a tablespoon of rice and  little milk (enough to liquefy) the resulting mixture and smear it liberally on your skin. Once dry, splash cold water and scrub it gently to remove it. Voila! Someone’s glowing.

Editor’s Note: Loved this! I love curd & honey, definitely trying first two <3

Do you use aloe vera in your DIY face packs? How do you use it?

Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel Review, How to Use

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Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel Review, How to Use

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION – Hello everyone. This is probably one of the bestselling product from the brand and used by every skin. One of the disadvantages of having an oily skin is that you have to prevent making it oily while moisturizing it. This is because the oiliness often leads to severe breakouts. My skin is both oily and acne prone. Having used this Aloe Vera Gel for a year now, I can surely say it has worked for me here is my detailed review on the product.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Aloe Vera Gel for natural beauty, safety and useful for removal of pigmented spots.

Ingredients– Aloe Vera 90% W/V, Base Material – Q.S., Permitted Colours – Tartazine Yellow and Brilliant blue, Vitamin E, Fragrance and Preservatives Q.S.

PRICE – 75 INR for 150ml

MY REVIEW

The Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel comes in a transparent plushy tube with an orange flip open cap. The transparent tube enables you to see through how much product is left on the tube. It is also available in a smaller pack but the bigger tube is better if you ask me. The packaging is simple and nice and I have travelled with this tube for a number of occasions and it has never disappointed me at all. The aloe vera gel has the consistency of a clear gel with a greenish tinge in it, thanks to the use of colors (see the ingredients). I feel the addition of colors were absolutely unnecessary because we all are aware of the fact that raw aloe vera gel is itself clear and thus green color was of no use. The product has a faint aloe vera smell with a refreshing aroma but it is not going to irritate the nasal senses at all. Even on the skin, it stays for an hour or half and then fades off.

You require a very less amount of product and only a pea size amount will surely suffice for face and neck. The product has a slimy texture in a gel form and spreads well on the surface of the face. Initially, for about 2-3mins you will feel as if it is slimy and sticky on the skin but after that time, it gets completely absorbed into the skin, with a satin matte finish and yet hydrating at the same time. It gives a soothing and cool sensation to the skin right after you apply. Thus, it is a great product when the skin is literally scorched after being in long hours under direct sun.

Around the staring of 2015, I faced severe acne problem and had to visit a dermatologist. I was strictly directed not to use any kind of product except for the medicines he gave me. Now, funny part is after having those medicines they dried my skin like parched land and my skin felt stretchy and dull all the time. I was little afraid of using any moisturizer but on a suggestion from a friend, I started using the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel. To my surprise, it never broke my skin out even after a year and half. It hydrates my oily skin, prevents the acne and works very well before applying makeup as well. However, it doesn’t cures acne or any kind of skin pigmentation. I do suffer from slight pigmentation around the mouth but it is still persistent and the aloe vera gel didn’t do anything about it. For winters, I add 2-3drops of vitamin E oil or any facial oil with it and massage onto the skin.

You can also use this gel for massaging the skin. Since it remains slimy for some time, massaging the skin increases the blood circulation and gives a natural radiance to the skin. I have also used the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel for under eyes as I have dry eye area. It nicely hydrates the area but only for around 2-3hours and then you have to really it again. For oily eyelids, it is a great option. You can use the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel for body lotion when you don’t want anything too hydrating. Just make sure not to step out of the house without sunscreen for face and body.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Nice and hygienic packaging.

2. Gel form and gets readily absorbed.

3. Works for every skin type.

4. Prevents acne.

5. Cools down the sunburnt skin.

6. Hydrates the skin without making it oily.

7. Reasonable price tag.

8. No availability issues.

WHAT I DISLIKED

1. Does no enhancement to the texture of the skin.

2. No effect on pigmentation.

3. Added colors.

RATING – 4/5

Quality: 3.5/5

Value for money: 4.5/5

Availability: 5/5

OVERALL – All in all, Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel gave me a good experience for an inexpensive face moisturizer, body lotion and massage gel and I am really happy with the way it has worked for my skin. It is also available very easily now.

Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

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Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

By Rashmi

Hello lovelies,

Summers are back and with a bang. Nobody likes summers as they bring with them innumerable skin woes. But don’t you people worry. I have got it all covered for you people with easy solutions to keep your skin fresh and glowing. Thank me later

1. SUNSCREEN –

Use sunscreen whenever you are going out and make sure it is at least SPF 30 or choose from what suits you. Sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent it from getting damaged.

2. CLEANSER –

The cleanser helps to unclog pores and it should be used as a part of a skincare regimen. During summers it becomes even more important to use a cleanser as the skin becomes lifeless and the pores get clogged. Make your own cleanser by mixing yogurt and honey. Apply it on your face and let it stay for 20 minutes and then wash it off to get clear skin.

3. EXFOLIATE –

Exfoliation is a must for the skin. Dead skin needs to be removed as they make the face look dull. Make your own exfoliator by mixing oatmeal, honey, and milk. Apply it on the face and let it sit for 10 mins then start scrubbing the face gently with wet hands. Scrub slowly for 5 minutes and then wash it off with water.

4. TONER-

Toners make you feel refreshed instantly. Make a refreshing toner by simply mixing cucumber juice with rosewater. Store it in the refrigerator to give it a longer life. Though use it only for a week and then make a new one. Carry it with yourself when going out. Spray it on your face to give your face instant relaxation.

5. MOISTURISE –

This step is what many people avoid during summers. Change your moisturiser to an oil-free one. Moisturisers are required by the skin in every season. It becomes even more important to use a moisturiser after exfoliation to lock the nourishment back into the skin. Mix your night serum with your moisturiser and apply it to your face to give the skin all the goodness that it needs.

6. KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED –

Drink as much water as you can. During summers this is certainly the most important thing. Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day. And do not wait for your mouth to get dry. Try drinking refreshing juices like watermelon juice or lemon water.

RANDOM SKIN CARE TIPS-

1. Rub ice all over your face to instantly soothe your skin. But make sure you cover it with a muslin cloth, never apply ice directly to your skin.

2. Apply calamine lotion to soothe skin rashes.

3. If you are out of toner, simply apply cold rosewater on your face to calm and soothe the skin.

4. Avoid oily and fried food. Include lots of fruits and veggies in your diet.

Editor’s Note: These are such basic things Rashmi, but we always tend to take them for granted. Articles like these remind me to follow things sincerely. One thing I would like to add and which I also follow is carrying a thermal spring water and spritzing it time and again, be it Avene, Vichy, La Roche Posay,etc.

Image Source: 1,2,Getty

Do you follow all these summer skin care tips?

Khadi Trifla Powder Review & How to use for Hair

Ayurvedic, Hair Care, Home Remedies, How To, Khadi, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Khadi Trifla Powder Review & How to use for Hair

By Nidhal

The most common and irksome hair woe everyone be it a man or a woman faces today is the dreaded 8-lettered word ‘HAIR FALL’. Didn’t it send shivers down your spine? Its roots (no pun intended) find origin in myriad causes ranging from stress to poor/substandard quality of products used, from bombarding oneself with chemical-laden products to diet deficient in proteins. ‘When everything fails, head to Granny dearest’ is the mantra I espouse and live by both metaphorically and literally.

My grandmother’s pearls of wisdom in the realm of hair care have always had one product since times immemorial. No points for guessing ( for you would have already seen what it is thanks to the title of the post), it is TRIFALA POWDER (also called ‘Triphala’). It is a blend of three herbs- Amlaki (Amla), Haritaki (Harar/Hadad) and Bibhitaaki (Bahera/Baheda). And the three together, pack a punch at so many hair woes that you’d be left wondering why on Earth didn’t you use it before.

Trifla Powder is also excellent for people suffering from constipation, acidity and irregular bowel movements. You just need to have one spoon with water whenever you feel bloated or have irregular bowel movement. Do not have it regularly as the body gets used to it.

I grabbed KHADI TRIFALA powder from a Khadi store in Delhi a few months ago. Today is the time for us to know if it deserves a second try or not 🙂

PRICE- Rs 45/- for 200 g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Mix Khadi Trifala powder in the base ingredient. Mix well. Apply on scalp and hair. Rinse with cool water.

INGREDIENTS- Amla, Harar and Bahera

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Trifala is good for constipation and acidity. It regulates bowel movement. (This indicates that the product is edible)

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a simple plastic pack, the packaging of Khadi Trifala powder is way too simplistic in fact, underwhelming. Once cut open, the contents need to be transferred to either a clean container or a zipper pouch. Carrying it while travelling is a hassle both ways. As a result, I think it would be better if Khadi revisits its packaging decision for the current one for this product is disappointing.

Khadi Trifala powder is finely powdered and that makes it a cakewalk to mix it with the base ingredient of one’s choice be it curd, water, raw milk or anything that suits one’s hair type. Since my hair type is dry, I team it up with coconut milk. I suffer from one hair woe and that is why I opt for coconut milk because of its intensely hydrating properties.

I have used the above concoction for a month consistently without fail twice a week and what I noted was an improvement in my mane’s volume, strength and frizz control. It softened and imparted shine/lustre too but that wasn’t as praiseworthy as some of the herbal powders I had used in the past such as-hibiscus powder. It is important, I believe to be realistic. One product cannot be a Hindi film hero who’d bash all the goons to pulp, mouth one-liners that’ll make the audience whistle in awe, rescue his leading lady and basically do everything 😛

This product is no different. When used consistently over a period of time with the right base ingredient, it works wonders in some spheres (say-volume increase, strength, frizz control) but doesn’t perform as well as expected in some (shine and softness). Perhaps, addition of a few more ingredients to the above mix help me achieve my ‘unachieved goals’. All in all, it is a good investment keeping the price and its benefits in mind. Go grab a few packets to treat your mane naturally!

GOOD-

1. Dirt-cheap

2. A single pack will last long. Each pack contains 200 g of Trifala powder which is sufficient to last long.

3. Finely powdered hence, mixing with any base ingredient is cushy.

4. Gives complete volition to the user to mix with whichever base ingredient one wants to say- milk, curd, water, etc.

5. Strengthens hair overtime

6. Removal is easy

7. Other ingredients can be added to the Trifala+ base ingredient mix such as- Reetha powder, shikakai powder, tulsi powder, etc.

8. Makes one’s tresses voluminous

9. Suitable for use by all

10. Natural. No chemicals pumped into it hence, a safe solution to combat hair woes.

BAD-

1. Limited availability. It isn’t easily available online. The only option currently is to visit a Khadi store and grab it.

2. Does not impart as much shine as is expected from Trifala powder (Amla imparts shine)

3. Packaging needs to be improved. The provision of a zipper pack will be better.

4. Does not soften hair much. I have used some herbal powders before and this powder does not soften my tresses as much as those did. That said, it does not even dry my hair too.

RATING-4.5/5

Editor’s Note: Trifla is fabulous, I have had it often as a part of capsules if I suffer from irregular bowel movement. But I have not used it directly as a mask, though a part of hair masks in general. I would surely give this a try Nidhal.

Have you tried using Trifla powder for your hair?

How to Get Rid of Back Acne?

Anti Acne, Home Remedies, How To, Lifestyle, Skin care, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How to Get Rid of Back Acne?

By Shelja

Summers are full of adventure, beaches and sweat. Sure we all love summer holidays and other stuff but there is something which I hate about summers, The back acne! As summers are sweaty I end up with these crazy acne all over my back and forearms, Thank God I am not the only one facing it, the good news is, it can vanished! Every year in forced to keep a check on the tips given below to keep my back free from acne. Keep reading to know more!

1. Salicylic wash : Salicylic acid is popularly advised by dermatologist for acne and pimple prone skin, it is also know for its deep cleansing and rejuvenation properties, it also provides exfoliation and reduces dark spots caused by acne. Using salicylic acid on your back twice daily can have visible effects.

2. Benzoyl peroxide : This is a another strong ingredient to use on your back acne, as it dries off the skin it’s not recommended to use on your face without your dermatologist advice. If your using a benzoyl peroxide wash let it stay for atleast a minute befor you wash it off. Using a lotion of benzoyl peroxide over your back after the shower will get you faster results.

3. Keep it clean : if you notice back acne mostly occur during summers, sweat is also one of the many reasons for your back acne, shower right after you sweat, after gym or before bed.

4. Retino A : Retino A cream is used for acne and pimple treatment, it is also used for further prevention, you may notice some skin shedding within few days but that’s a normal process as it sheds off the old skin at the same time promotes growth of new skin cells. It also works good for wrinkles, age spots and skin lightening.

5. Don’t re-use worn clothes : Dirty clothes can cause clogged pores and thus causing acne, the best way is to wash your bra and tops after one use, especially during summers when you sweat the most.

6. Apply sunscreen : If your skin has acne scars sun can be your biggest enemy. As sun can make your acne marks last longer. The best way is to wear clothes which covers your acne area. use a oil free suncreen lotion over your back 20min prior of sun exposure. Sunscreen also helps to save your skin from unwanted tan and early signs of ageing.

Editor’s Note: Agree with all these points Shelja, well written. I do get it in summers sometimes.

Image sources : 1,2,3

Do you have back acne? How do you deal with it?

DIY Homemade Hair Mask for Strengthening Hair

DIY, Hair Care, Hair Mask, Home Remedies, How To, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DIY Homemade Hair Mask for Strengthening Hair

By Nidhal

One can never run short of ways or ideas to pamper their crowning glory. There is a hairstyle or hair cut that you’d been thinking of getting at any point of time. There’d be those accessories that you’d be dying to experiment with. There would be hair products that you would have played with to give your tresses that bounce of life. But amidst all this, being Indians, we cannot never turn a blind eye to our Good Ol’ home remedies, can we?

So, why not treat our hair to the bountifulness of natural ingredients today and drool over them all over again? March straight to the pantry for there lies your paraphernalia for this DIY recipe.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED-

1. CURD- Enriched with the bountifulness of lactic acid, curd/yoghurt (called Dahi in Hindi) helps to eliminate dandruff, foul smell and dullness. It adds unprecedented gloss and softness that you just can’t get over.

2. TULSI POWDER- Being a plant that has been revered in Hinduism for centuries, Tulsi has benefits galore for your mane. It treats lice, dandruff, itchiness and scalp infections. Yes, your granny was right when she said that Tulsi is a miraculous plant. No questions asked anymore!

3. ALMOND OIL- Being a storehouse of Vitamin E, almond oil helps in locking moisture and adding that enviable sheen to your locks. Prefer organic/cold-pressed almond oil and not the ones that are laden with mineral oil. In my opinion, Almendrop 100% pure almond oil is a wise choice.

4. METHI/FENUGREEK POWDER- Now comes the wonder ingredient which cannot be done without. Methi helps to add shine in addition to imparting softness. It also accelerates the rate of growth of hair which spells cheer for those ladies waiting anxiously to flaunt long luscious locks. Opt for methi powder for grinding is a tad cumbersome and finely grinding takes patience (which sadly, today is a lost virtue).

PROCEDURE-

1. In a clean and dry bowl, add 5-6 tbsp of curd. This is the amount for shoulder length hair. Increase if you have longer hair.

2. Add 3 tbsp each of methi and tulsi powder.

3. Add half a tbsp. of almond oil

4. Mix well thoroughly to form a smooth and consistent paste.

5. Apply generously all over your scalp as well as length (of hair).

6. Wash off after 45 minutes with a mild herbal/organic shampoo. Condition if you feel the need to do so.

7. Repeat twice a week to expedite the results and acclimatise your scalp to these natural ingredients.

That is all for now, folks. Feel free to post your queries and results with me through the ‘comments section’ and try this DIY recipe to get locks which you cannot stop drooling over.

Pssst… It compels you to keep stroking your fingers down your mane intermittently!

Editor’s Note: This sounds really good Nidhal and methi and tulsi are very good for dandruff too. I am definitely trying this, have to get methi and tulsi powder now.

Have you tried this DIY before? If not, do so and let us know how you find it.