Category Archives: Night Creams

Unboxing & Review: November Up Your Game Fab Bag, Indian Beauty Blog

Unboxing & Review: November 2015 Fab Bag

Unboxing & Review: November 2015 Fab Bag

Hi guys,

I received the November Fab Bag today evening and recorded it immediately, edited and uploaded it, this has been the quickest I have done a video 😀

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

MRP: Rs.699/- per month

Fab Bag is a monthly subscription bag where you get 4 (sometimes a 5th bonus) products. This month’s theme is ‘Up Your Game The Expert Edition’. I am not sure why the theme name coz none of the products match the theme.

It’s a black quilted bag this time and the quality is pretty good.

The Fab Post and the contents card..

Products in the bag:

  • Seasoul Dead Sea Minerals & Botanicals Massage Candle- Full size- Rs.300/- for 50ml
  • Ayorma Fairness & Cell Renew Night Cream- Rs.195/- for 15g (Rs.649/- for 50g)
  • Lollipops Paris Matte Concealer in Biscuit- Full size- Rs.800/- for 5.5ml
  • Kama Ayurveda Pure Rose Water- Full size- Rs.250/- for 50ml

The Ayorma night cream comes in a small jar which is good for travel, the quantity is pretty good but I would have loved a 25-30g jar. Lollipops Concealer in the shade Biscuit does not quite match my skin tone and is a bit orangey, I will try and figure if I can work around it for my under eyes.

They had an option to pick your own skincare product like they had the option to pick a makeup product last month. I chose the Kama Ayurveda Rose Water. I thought of the Iraya Serum but I am yet to try out my previous one but I have heard quite good things about it, so if you have not tried the Iraya Serum before and get an option, go for the Iraya one. I like Kama Ayurveda Rose  Water and I love face mists, so I don’t mind having more of them.

The Seasoul Massage Candle is the most interesting product in this month’s box, I have never tried a massage candle before and looking forward to try it.

The value of the products for me come to Rs.1550/- but since the concealer which itself is Rs.800/- is not a good match, it doesn’t turn out to be value for money.

I am not sure if they are sending different shades of concealer to everyone but there are just 3 shade options according to the Fab Post. The other 3 products are good but does not make the bag value for money.

You can skip the November Fab Bag, not a must have in my opinion.

But if you would like to try anyway, you can book your bag HERE

What do you think about the November Fab Bag? What products did you receive?

April 2015 My Envy Box Review

April 2015 My Envy Box Review

Hey guys,

I am late in reviewing the April My Envy Box but here it is..

Read more about My Envy Box HERE and check out all the previous reviews HERE.

This time they have changed a few things in the box. Its a peach colored box, usually they have a pouch in which all the products are, this time there was no pouch and the products were all separate within the box. Also there was only one card this time with information of all 5 products unlike 5 different cards for each, which is good.

MRP: Rs.850/-

Lets take a look at what all I received in the April My Envy Box:

  • Za True White Exfoliating Clay– A deluxe sample of 30g which is quite good (Full Size Rs.399/- for 100g)
  • Catrice Longlasting Lip Pencil in Prince Cherry- Full size (Rs.300/-)
  • Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream 1.5ml small vial (Rs.5700/- for 100ml)
  • Kama Ayurveda Rejuvenating and Brightening Ayurvedic Night Cream– 2 small jars. I guess they are 5-6g each. (Full size Rs.1195/- for 50g)
  • Avene VHP Dry Touch Emulsion SPF50+ 5ml (Rs.1250/- for 50ml)

I love the products this time, a full sized makeup product is a perfect addition. The Catrice lip pencil is a very pretty red and would work with so many of my red lipsticks. I like Kama Ayurveda products and looking forward to trying out the night cream which I am glad comes in 2 jars and is a good quantity. The Za True White Exfoliating Clay is a new launch and is exclusively a part of My Envy Box, so again something new to try.

I am already using the Avene Dry Touch Emulsion and love it, so this would go into my travel bag, useful for a 1-2 day short trip. And the Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream smells like a dream indeed, fresh and floral but a bit light though for my taste.

Overall, I am quite happy with this month’s My Envy Box. I hope they continue with this, coz I see such good boxes only once in 3-4 months and not every month unfortunately 🙁

You can request an invite for My Envy Box HERE

Did you like April My Envy Box?

Herbalife Skin 7 Day Challenge Review

Herbalife Skin 7 Day Challenge Review

Herbalife SKIN Launched in India around Mid October 2014

•Solution-based skin care nutrition for younger and healthier-looking skin
•Fast results in just 7 days*
•Heena Sidhu, ace Indian pistol shooter & “Fresh face” of Herbalife is the brand ambassador for Herbalife SKIN

Solution-based skin care nutrition with optimized Formula, Feel and Fast Results. Herbalife SKIN products have been formulated with an optimum blend of Vitamin B3 and antioxidant Vitamins C and E, and Aloe Vera to get softer, smoother, more radiant skin and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Created to replenish and rejuvenate the skin with fast results, Herbalife SKIN has been clinically proven to produce visible results in just 7 days*. The Herbalife SKIN range is paraben-free, sulfate-free** and dermatologist tested.

Made with fruit extracts, essential oils, plant enzymes, chamomile, and antioxidant vitamins, the SKIN line is unisex and is suitable for all skin types.

The Line Minimizing Serum, Daily Glow Moisturizer and Night Replenishing Cream have been clinically proven to improve the skin softness, smoothness, radiance, glow and luminosity in 7 days. The Firming Eye Gel and Hydrating Eye Cream, Line Minimizing Serum, Daily Glow Moisturizer and Night Replenishing Cream reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles significantly in 7 days.

So I was asked to take this 7 Day challenge comprising these 5 products mentioned above. And I was up for it. I like natural products which are paraben and chemical free.

About the products:

Firming Eye Gel: Helps improve the appearance of the delicate eye area by increasing your skin’s elasticity.*
Helps improve the appearance of firmness to the eye area.*
Contains revitalizing cucumber extract.
Suitable for all skin types.
Ophthalmologist tested.
Paraben-free. Dermatologist tested.

Exclusively formulated with: Vitamins B3, antioxidant Vitamins C and E and Aloe Vera, Cucumber extract

MRP: Rs.2240/- for 15 mL airless pump

Hydrating Eye Cream: Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, an area which has a lower amount of both sweat and oil glands, making it highly susceptible to dehydration.
Clinically tested to show a significant increase in the skin’s moisture over eight hours.*
Suitable for all skin types.
Ophthalmologist tested.
Paraben-free. Dermatologist tested.

Exclusively formulated with: Vitamins B3, antioxidant Vitamins C and E and Aloe Vera, Macadamia nut oil, Cucumber extract, Peptide

MRP: Rs.2240/- for 15 mL airless pump

Line Minimizing Serum: This multi-functional serum helps diminish the visible signs of aging.*
AM/PM use helps maximize your results.
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Clinically tested to show remarkable improvement in skin softness, smoothness, radiance, glow and luminosity in just seven days.*
Suitable for all skin types.
Paraben-free. Dermatologist tested.

Exclusively formulated with: Vitamin B3, antioxidant Vitamins C and E and Aloe Vera, Chestnut seed extract, Peptide

MRP: Rs.3205/- for 30 mL airless pump

Daily Glow Moisturizer: All-purpose hydrating lotion with illuminating properties to give your face a healthy glow. Skin looks radiant, even without makeup.
Clinically tested to show that skin looks more glowing and feels softer and smoother in just seven days.†
Clinically shown to double skin’s moisture for eight hours.‡
This product is ideal for any occasion where you want your skin to look fresh and silky soft or when you just want some light-weight moisture.
Perfect for men and women and suitable for all skin types.
Paraben free. Dermatologist tested.

Exclusively formulated with: Vitamin B3, antioxidant Vitamins C and E and Aloe Vera, Sunflower seed oil, Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract, Macadamia nut oil, Olive oil, Sesame seed oil

MRP: Rs.2414/- for 30 mL airless pump

Replenishing Night Cream: This rich, luxurious cream helps deliver much needed moisture to the skin at night. Long-term hydration allows you to awaken with softer, smoother skin.
Clinically tested to show skin looks smoother and feels softer in just seven days.*
Provides noticeable improvement of overall skin complexion and luminosity in just one week.*
Clinically tested to show skin’s moisture is doubled for eight hours.†
Suitable for all skin types.
Paraben free. Dermatologist tested.

Exclusively formulated with: Vitamins B3, antioxidant Vitamins C and E and Aloe Vera, Sunflower seed oil, Macadamia seed oil, Olive fruit oil, Sesame seed oil, Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract

MRP: Rs.2414/- for 30 mL airless pump

To start with, I loved the packaging and the three layers. Very well protected, small and handy, travel friendly. All have Step No. written on them like these have 3,4 and 5 for Eye Cream, Serum and Moisturiser/Night Cream.

Since it was a 7 day challenge, I used it continuously for 7 days. Then again took a break for 2-3 days to see the changes in the skin, and then was using it again. Sometimes of late, I have been using 1-2 out of all and such and not following the entire regime since I have already tested.

My review would be based on using all the 5 products together for 7 days as a challenge, and I will also add some points for the product individually.

Starting with the Firming Eye Gel, its a clear transparent gel which needs to be applied delicately on the entire eye area up and down including the sides. You can feel the cooling effect and the firming too within a minute or two. Sometimes it burnt slightly, not sure if the skin was too dry or for what reason.

The Firming Eye Gel is followed by the Hydrating Eye Cream. Its a nice creamy formula and again lightly applied all over the eye.

Of the 2 products together, few things I would like to mention: Use very very little quantity like the minutest pump on your ring finger. Blend both the ring fingers and very lightly dab or massage the eye area. DO NOT take a pea sized amount of this! I did this mistake in the first 1-2 days. The product used was too much and whenever too much eye product is used, your eyes get a little swollen the next day like you get the under bags coz the product seeps in. Also it does not really require too much qty, the minutest is enough.

I would say one can skip the Firming Gel and go only for the Hydrating Cream. Even if you compare the formulation mentioned above, both have the same, in fact Hydrating Cream has extra and I really like the creamy Hydrating Cream.

One thing I noticed is, whenever I stopped using the eye creams, the inside corner of my upper eye became very very dry and that has never been so before! I am not really sure if the skin got used to the cream or the cream has that effect that it needs to be used continuously. If its the later, I am a little scared, coz I do not want my skin to get used to a particular thing forever.

Coming to the Line Minimizing Serum which is the next step after the eye creams. I used this twice in a day along with the eye creams. So these 3 products were fixed at both times, followed by a Daily Moisturizer or a Night Cream for AM/PM. I do not have wrinkles, so I did not see a major difference which I can talk about. Its a white colored light water based cream.But its very light in texture and got absorbed nicely. Skin did feel softer and smoother eventually.

The Daily Glow Moisturizer was white colored thick cream like in texture and the Replenishing Night Cream had similar texture but its light yellow in color. You need a tiny quantity of both here again. Since these are rich and heavy, even a tiny quantity is more than enough for moisturization. I never felt the need for any other moisturiser.

In fact, I am not a fan of layering products, so using 4 products at a time was a little heavy for my skin and it left a little sheen, for which I used to dab a tissue at the end. But never once did it broke me out or anything.

When you check the ingredients, you would find all nice and pure stuff good for the skin from Walnut Oil, Rosemary Oil to Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil and eye creams have Cucumber extracts.

When all 5 products used together, I would say, my skin never felt so moisturized and hydrated, which is amazing for the winters too. Skin is softer, smoother with less visible lines and pores and there is no redness with a very very even skin tone. In my previous OOTD, I mentioned about how I am loving my skin these days and I have those pictures with no makeup on but just this regime and a lipstick.

Also these days I step out without any ounce of makeup on most of the days, not even a tinted moisturizer coz I don’t even feel the need to. I think I got to try this range at the perfect moment as my skin is more than ready for the wedding now 😀 I would definitely recommend this for brides-to-be. Also since I took a break in between, I can tell your skin would still remain soft and plump and would not return to how it was, as with most creams. Only the eye cream I am not sure of, if my skin has got used to,or if its the weather.

But the issues are its only available via a representative and also its super expensive! I think the reps might be having a good deal on the entire kit though, not really sure, would check on that. (I saw the entire Herbalife combo on Snapdeal once for Rs.13,500/-) One may skip the Firming Eye gel though, and maybe the Line Minimizing Serum if it is not really required.

Highly recommended! This stuff works.

Currently I am testing new products, but I might switch back to these just before the wedding 😀

Rating: 4.25/5

Have you ever tried Herbalife Skin products? What do you think?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review.

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 ?

ZA True White Cleansing Foam, Toner, Night Cream Review

ZA True White Cleansing Foam, Toner, Night Cream Review

Hey guys,

I had reviewed my favourite moisturizer these days HERE. i.e ZA True White Day Protector. I have been trying the cleansing foam, toner and night cream from the same range since quite some time and would be reviewing those today.

About the ZA range by Shiseido : ZA (pronounced as zi:ei) True White features three best whitening ingredients –Revolutionary 4MSK Formula penetrates deep within the skin to diminish the formation of excessive melanin, reduce blemishes & dark spots that are visible on the surface giving an even-toned radiance.

Vitamin C Complex with a potent combination of APM (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) and VC-IP (Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate) lightens the deep rooted melanin pigments to restore skin’s translucence.

The range is enriched with exclusive SPA ingredients like Natural Spring Water from the foothills of Mount Cazzaro in Tuscany, Italy, Trehalose and White Lily extract to give unparalleled moisture to the skin. Its Prism Enhancer System removes unwanted dead corneal cells and allows for maximum diffusion of light on the skin’s surface making it radiant with brightness.

ZA True White Cleansing Foam

What the Company claims: A whitening cleansing foam that provides essential care for moisturized translucent skin.

How to: Squeeze a small amount onto palm and work into a lather using cool or lukewarm water. Gently massage over face in circular motion. Rinse thoroughly.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.349/- for 100g (Available for Rs.339/- HERE)

It comes with a flip cap packaging. It is the creamiest face wash I have ever seen or used, like literal cream! It has small brown granules which help in light exfoliation and not harsh. It cleanses well and even removes your basic makeup.

Only issue being, I find it slightly drying, though thats the case with most cream based face washes. I generally like gel based ones for the same reason. But still it was the least drying and the most creamy cream based face wash. I would not recommend it for dry skin, unless you are used to cream based face washes. But would work great with oily combination skin, with some moisturizer above it, of course.

Rating: 3.75/5

ZA True White Toner

What the Company claims: A whitening toner for moisturized translucent skin.

How to: Smooth an appropriate amount over face with hand or cotton pad after cleansing.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.699/- for 150ml

Its a runny watery liquid, has a soft floral smell and does not dry out the skin even though it has alcohol.

I am not much of a toner person. I know people always recommend the CTM routine, but I am more into facial mists. Toner is not really my thing. Though it helps in cleaning and tightening pores,etc. I have not seen any major difference with/without toners on my skin. Or may be I am never regular enough with toners.

I definitely prefer alcohol free toners, as alcohol totally rips the moisture from the skin. There are not many options in India as far as good alcohol free toners are concerned. If you are into the CTM routine and tone regularly and are ok with toners having alcohol, do give this a try. I did not see too much of a difference though. Might work more for people with oily skin.

Rating: 3/5

ZA True White Night Cream

What the Company claims: This whitening Night Cream works hard while you are fast asleep. Gives high Whitening effect by diminishing melanisation, dark sports, blemish marks and patchiness to reveal translucent, clear skin; and Moisturizing effect by removing excess surface cells, while deeply hydrating skin from inside-out.

How to use: Smooth an appropriate amount over face with fingers after toner. Apply several dots on the face and spread evenly from the centre of the face outwards.

MRP: Rs.999/- for 40g

It comes in jar packaging like the ZA True White Day Cream. It has a gel like texture and is water based. It gets completely absorbed into the skin and there is no greasiness with this.

You don’t even need too much product, but just a pea sized amount. This will best suit people with oily skin. If you have dry skin and prefer light creams, then you will like it. But if you love heavy rich creams at night, this won’t be enough in terms of moisturization. I like water based creams especially in summers. Though at times I prefer richer ones when I feel my skin looks dry and needs hydration and moisture.

I did not find it deeply hydrating as claimed but it did help in healing a few acne spots faster. Worth a try.

Rating: 3.5/5

My favourite from the ZA Range is still the True White Day Protector, followed by the Cleansing Foam, Night Cream and Toner.

Have you tried the ZA skincare range ? If yes, what is your favourite ? If no, what would you like to try first ?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review.

The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil Review

The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil Review

What the Company claims: Wake up to beautiful skin with new Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil, a technical innovation combining the power of a serum and oil to indulge, replenish and recharge skin with moisture overnight.

  • 8h beauty sleep for your skin
  • Skin feels recharged, replenished and softer
  • Skin looks fresher, rested and more radiant
  • Our highest concentration of wheatgerm oil
  • Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Emollient), Dicaprylyl Carbonate (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Triticum Vulgare Germ Oil/Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil (Emollient), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil/Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (Emollient), Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil/Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil/Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Glycine Soja Oil/Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (Emollient/Skin Conditioner), Parfum/Fragrance (Fragrance), Tocopheryl Acetate (Antioxidant), Benzyl Benzoate (Fragrance Ingredient), Geraniol (Fragrance Ingredient), Linalool (Fragrance Ingredient), Limonene (Fragrance Ingredient), Citronellol (Fragrance Ingredient), Benzyl Salicylate (Fragrance Ingredient), Eugenol (Fragrance Ingredient), Citral (Fragrance Ingredient), Anisyl Alcohol (Fragrance Ingredient), Citric Acid (pH Adjuster).

Directions: Apply a few drops in the palm of your hands and gently rub together to warm. Apply on the face and the neck with a gentle patting motion. Using fingertips, massage in small circular movements over forehead, cheeks, around mouth and chin area.

MRP: Rs.1695/- for 28ml

Ok so to start with, let me tell you, I loveee serums and oils…mostly use one every night, if at all, I am not trying out an overnight cream or something. (Which is rare these days..skin on a testing spree :/)

It comes in a small pink glass bottle with a dropper. The serum is transparent and clear..it feels like a very light oil. You just need 2-3 drops, blend in your hands and lightly apply over the face and neck.

It has a sweet fragrance..I am not too fond of perfumes and fragrance in my serums and oils unless it is a natural one like lavender essential oil. If you read the ingredients list above, you see many ingredients being used just for fragrance which I think could have been avoided.

Coming to the texture of it, it is so super light..sinks in the skin under a minute. No oiliness or greasiness. And the skin feels super soft and plump the next day. Vitamin E also helps in fading your acne marks,etc. If you have dry skin or dry patches, it will help you get rid of the patches within a week. Skin feels better and better every morning with regular use.

Pros:

1. Super light in texture.

2. Sinks in the skin and no oiliness or greasiness.

3. Skin feels super soft and plump the next morning…no dry patches.

4. Has a blend of oils in ingredients like wheatgerm, sweet almond, sunflower, jojoba, sesame and Vitamin E and glycerin which are all amazing for the skin.

5. You just need 2-3 drops, so 28ml would last a long time.

6. It may be slightly expensive but when compared to other serums in that category, its half their price.

Cons:

1. Glass bottle not travel friendly.

2. I would have liked it without the added fragrance ingredients.

Overall, I would say its quite nice and perfect for dry to normal skin..works for my combination skin too. Oily skin should try it in winters. I love how skin is more softer and smoother with it, the next morning..and also gets the dose of some hydrating oils in a serum form which is quite light on the skin. Recommended!

I also love the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate, but that it priced at Rs.2750/- for 30ml. If I have to choose one, I would go with Kiehl’s coz I like it a little bit more 😀 But I would definitely suggest trying out this Vitamin E Serum-in-Oil and if you are getting it at 20-30% off on sales, surely grab it!

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you tried The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-in-Oil? Any other overnight serums or oils ?

Kaya Overnight Skin Replenisher Review

Kaya Super Orange Bloom Overnight Skin Replenisher Review
I had posted about Kaya’s 15 new products HERE. Overnight Skin Replenisher is one of them.
Busy lifestyle, constant application of make-up and the weather conditions can really play havoc on your perfect complexion and make your skin look dull and lifeless! To rejuvenate and reinvigorate your skin, Kaya has launched the Super Orange Bloom range, a special skin care line consisting of multi-vitamin complex that revives dull and lifeless skin, effectively making it bright and radiant. This unique and revolutionary formula awakens and purifies the skin with a refreshing feel of orange bloom, anti-oxidant and moisturizing benefits.

Overnight Skin Replenisher is a light, rich-textured night cream that contains effective Skin Awakening elements like Vitamins B3, B5, A, C & E suitable for all skin types. This specially formulated cream offers anti-oxidant and skin renewal benefits that work best during night time. It not only helps to revive and revitalize dull skin but also boosts skin texture and gives clarity.

Ingredients & Directions:

Some ingredients info I got from Google:

Potassium azeloyl diglycinate is is a traditional whitening and anti-acne active ingredient.
Isohexadecane- emollient
Caprylic capric triglyceride- A mixed triester derived from coconut oil and glycerin
Isopropyl myristate/Liquid paraffin- emollient
Imperata cylindrica- also known as speargrass in West Africa, alang-alang in Asia, and cogongrass in America
Sodium ascorbyl phosphate- A stable, lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that functions as an antioxidant
Retinol is pure and active Vitamin A
Nicotinamide is a water-soluble amide form of niacin (nicotinic acid or vitamin B3)
Disodium EDTA- used as a preservative and stabilizer
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E, a natural skin-conditioning agent and antioxidant
Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5, used as a moisturizer and lubricating compound

Priced at Rs. 890/- for 50 ml

It comes in a glass jar with orange packaging..has a white lid in between..


Its a thick white cream with a quite refreshing citrusy smell..but it feels matte and powdery once blended..just like the Pond’s White Beauty Day Cream..so its completely non greasy.

Skin feels well moisturised..and hydrated and supple the next day too.

Pros:

1. Non greasy and sinks into the skin.
2. Leaves skin well hydrated and supple.
3. Skin feels smooth and matte the next day too.
4. Love the citrusy smell.
5. Some ingredients are quite good.
6. Qty is good..you just need a pea sized amount..so would last long.

Cons:

1. Expensive.
2. Glass jar packaging..not travel friendly and unhygienic.
3. No major remarkable change.
4. Only key ingredients mentioned.
5. Availability is an issue..only available at Kaya stores or online on kayaclinic.com or healthkart.com

Overall its a decent night cream..keeps skin hydrated and fresh..but do not expect magical results..would suit dry skin more..

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 3.25/5

Would I buy it again: Not sure..

By the way Romwe is back with some amazing offers and free gifts for Easter..

Romwe Galaxy Souvenirs & Upto 70% OFF for you this Easter:
Galaxy bowtie for orders over $40
Galaxy collar for orders over $70
Galaxy bag for orders over $100

From 27/03/2013 to 29/03/2013

Which night cream is your HG ? Have you tried Kaya Skin care products ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Review

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Review

What the Company claims: Purely Potent Over-Night Repair.

•Lightweight, overnight treatment.
•Regenerates, repairs, and replenishes skin for a smoother, healthier skin.
•Works with the skin’s natural nocturnal activity when skin is most receptive to repairing itself from daily aggressors to dramatically restore skin.
•99.8% naturally-derived and paraben-free.
•Kiehl’s Insider Tip: Layer over Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate for optimal anti-aging and healthier skin benefits.

Directions: Apply 2-3 drops on cleansed skin. Gently press fingertips to cheeks, forehead, and chin to evenly distribute the application before gently massaging it into the skin. Can be worn alone or under moisturizer.

Key Ingredients: Evening Primrose Oil is an effective on skin barrier repair and boosting radiance.

Lavender Essential Oil helps soothe inflamed or irritated skin while helping reduce skin blotchiness for a more even look. Creates a brighter and more radiant look to skin.

Squalane is a healing botanical lipid with a high affinity for skin to instantly restore and replenish.

Ingredients:

MRP: 1.0 fl. oz Bottle(30 ml)- $43.00 (Rs. 2750/- here)

1.7 fl. oz Bottle- $68.00

It has this dark blue packaging with a black dipper cap. The dipper helps you get the exact quantity..i.e 2-3 drops of it. I quite liked the packaging..the only thing is since its glass it needs to be handled with care..though the glass is quite thick to break just like that.

The main ingredient being evening primrose oil and lavender oil..it has a wonderful smell..which even helps you sleep better..you just need 2-3 drops of it..and so it lasts real real long.

I am using it from the last 3 weeks and its still almost full. I love the lavender smell..its quite soothing. It does make the skin appear healthier and plumper the next day. Even though its a serum and has oils in it..the texture is not sticky or oily..and gets instantly absorbed into the skin. If you have had a stressful or tired skin of late and need to attend an important event…this thing would help you for sure !

Pros:

1. Quite like the ingredients.
2. Does make the skin more radiant, even toned, healthier and plumper.
3. It even helps in drying out your acne and heal them faster.
4. Though its expensive, it lasts real long as you just need 2-3 drops of it.
5. I liked the packaging…there is no scope of any wastage whatsoever.
6. Naturally derived and paraben, fragrance and mineral oil free.
7. Does what it claims.
8. Would help replenish tired skin.

Cons:

1. Has to be stored well..away from light and handled with care.

No other cons as such..I would surely recommend it..in fact it has been recommended by 93% of people on their site too. I would suggest you to try this..especially if you are a bride to be. And I found it much better than the Lancome Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate which is priced almost double and did not do anything for my skin at all.

Rating:

Quality: 5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5

Would I buy it again: Yes..I love its effect on skin..and a little luxury is what our skin needs at times..

Have you tried any midnight recovery serums or concentrate?