UrbanClap: Local Service Professionals at Clap of your Hands
Hi guys,
These days we have 1-2 new apps coming up every other day, so what makes an app different and are all the apps in the market actually helpful? Nah! But one app I came across in December is actually very helpful! One of my friend works full time, both the husband and wife work whole day on weekdays and they only get weekends to chill or go out, her major concern always was cleaning and the home stuff. I was at her place last to last month and she told me she calls for whatever services she needs on this new app ‘Urbanclap’. One Sunday it is bathroom cleaning, and one Sunday it is sofa cleaning, she even calls for the beauty services she needs, she need not go to a salon or take an appointment, etc., her life is sorted!
I thought that’s an amazing idea, I downloaded the app to see how exactly it works. Last month before my Jaipur trip, I did not have the time to go to a salon and I called for beauty services at home on the Urbanclap app. If you follow me on twitter, you must have read a mini review of the services too. They have Rs.300/- off over services of Rs.800/- offer going on, they keep having offers, so watch out for that.
The app is super easy to use, understand and navigate. Select the service you need from the list of services, it catches your location and lets you know the fixed prices for blue collared jobs, or asks for your exact requirements from the options available for white collared jobs and the service providers send you a quote. You have three different price options too according to your budget. You have the option of the service providers calling you or you calling them, the latter is always safer and better unless you wish to be bombarded by calls whole day! You can even directly pay on the app for the blue collared services with fixed prices.
All the blue collared services have fixed pricing per hour which is around Rs.199/- Currently I am looking for a plumber for some minor work and all local plumbers tell me they will charge Rs.500/- for visiting even if 5 minutes job! Thank goodness for apps like this for saving us from being exploited.
I was looking for a yoga trainer at home for my back issue, and I chose that service and the ‘home’ option and my budget. These are the quotes and providers I got already within 5 minutes.
Things I did not like and which could improve, even after selecting the lower budget option here i.e. below Rs.3500/-, I got contacted by all providers giving a quote of Rs.4000 to 6000. Only the providers who give services within the mentioned budget should be able to give a quote or contact the buyer, coz it’s a waste of time.
I think Urbanclap is a huge help for working couples who hardly get time to get home stuff sorted, and even otherwise for families when you cannot find local services easily, now you can with just a touch on your phone! Apps like these sort your life, it has already received three rounds of funding and much deserved.
If you still haven’t tried Urbanclap, do so now! For Android users, go HERE and for Apple users, go HERE. You can thank me later 🙂 Currently it only available in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai, but they are expanding to other cities this year.
I travelled to Jaipur at the end of December, last year we went to Hong Kong, Macau and Andamans which I wanted to pen down on the blog but couldn’t coz of the accident in Jan and then it never happened.
This time I didn’t want to procrastinate one bit and made sure I post about my Jaipur trip. I always wanted to go to Jaipur (Rajasthan in General), having covered most of the parts of India, Rajasthan somehow never happened. This time it was a sudden plan at the end of November coz December was birthday and anniversary month 🙂
My trip started with this amazing take-off hyperlapse video (I love window seats!)
We stayed two days at Zone By the Park located in Bani Park in Jaipur. It’s a four star property. The rooms available are Zone Room, Zone Quad, Zone Trio and Zone Suite. We were in Zone Suite and it was huge and spacious with a beautiful living area, huge bedroom and a perfect bathroom. The rooms are modern but yet have the classic, old world charm through the paintings and artifacts. What I absolutely loved is the cleanliness and hygiene factor! The rooms were super clean and had smart, organized storage cabinets to keep your luggage, etc. I had place for my laptop, camera, bags and nothing came in between. The hotel is a bit far from the airport, the distance being about 13-14 kms but it is just 3 kms from the railway station and 2 kms from the central bus station.
The hotel has 47 rooms and they come with complimentary breakfast, fast Wi-Fi and one way airport/railway transfer. It has a restaurant named ‘The Bazaar’ which has global and regional cuisine, from the South Indian breakfast to the vast buffet spread for lunch or dinner, to the various a-la-carte options. I will share more on the restaurant and other facilities they have in my next post. It is a perfect stay option for corporates, families and even couples.
The Zone Suite room..
Here are a few pics from my Jaipur trip, some of you must have already seen the pictures on my Instagram.
Entire Jaipur view from Nahargarh Fort (Panorama)
We visited the City Palace, Amber Fort and Nahargarh Fort. Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal and Hawa Mahal we saw from a distance as it was not open for public. I was told the royal family lives at Jaigarh Fort and hence it is restricted. Jal Mahal was open for public untill 15 years ago.
Hawa MahalSunset View from Nahargarh FortThe Door at Nahargarh FortAt City Palace
At Zone by the Park, they had beautifully decorated the entire lobby for Christmas.
There is also a seating arrangement outside, but we did not dare to sit out, since it was quite cold!
Zone by the Park Hotels are currently in Jaipur, Chennai and Coimbatore. They are soon opening in Raipur, Jodhpur, Goa and Mahabalipuram.
The best thing about Zone by the Park has to be the amazing staff and hospitality. They were very courteous and always smiling, you can feel the warm welcome. One of my best hotel experiences till date! I am definitely looking forward to visit more of their properties.
If you are in search of a hotel in Jaipur, you can blindly book Zone by The Park. You will thank me later 🙂
One of the best thing about Jaipur is the food! I will include it in my next post coz this post would be way too image heavy otherwise.
Have you been to Jaipur? What do you like the most about Jaipur?
So a few days ago I went to the L’Oreal Academy for the L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil Ritual Experiental. Let me tell you a little more about the Mythic Oil Range and the service.
Mythic Oil Range: A unique range infused with 4 precious oils to unlock the secret to that legendary hair you’ve always wanted!
Argan Oil, a deeply hydrating oil known to restore smoothness and shine
Cotton Seed Oil, an oil that helps in regeneration
Rice Bran Oil, deeply nourishes each hair strand to leave hair smooth and soft
Cranberry Oil, A precious oil with illuminating properties to enhance the radiance
Your Mythical Must-Have: Mythic Oil Rich Oil
The Mythic Oil Rich Oil is a versatile oil like no other! Try it before you shampoo, to give you that deep nourishment! Use it as a styling product for that legendary look with a magical shine or overnight for intensive nourishment.
Rich Oil is a perfect blend of the most potent oils in nature; Argan oil from the magical argan tree or “tree of life” and rice bran oil. This versatile oil is immediately absorbed for a light weight feel, leaving the hair looking deeply illuminated and magical nourishment. This Oil is sure to be your mane-favourite!
It has 8 different types of rituals which depend on the condition of your hair. Since I had travelled to Jaipur and the hard water and climate there made my hair quite dry, we went with the ‘Mythic Repair Magic‘.
Mythic Repair Magic, a deeply nourishing ritual, specially designed for repairing extremely dry and damaged hair. It gently treats the scalp and helps protect hair against frizz and also illuminates it.
Here is a small vlog of the procedure:
Coming to the procedure:
1. Usually the ritual starts with application of a mix of ‘Rich Oil’ and ‘Oil Bar’ concentrate. But since my hair was not washed 2-3 days prior, the expert first washed my hair and blow dried it, for the ritual to work better.
2. And then a mix of oils is applied on every section of the hair and the scalp.
3. Scalp is massaged for about 5 minutes.
4. Hair is washed again with the Mythic Oil Shampoo.
5. Then the mask is applied on each section of hair, which has a few drops of the ‘Rich Oil’ mixed in it.
6. It is kept for about 10-15 minutes
7. Hair is washed again but only with plain water this time.
8. Blow dried and the Rich Oil is applied towards the lower half and ends.
I absolutely loved how my hair felt post the treatment. As mentioned above due to travelling and change in climate, my hair was in the worst condition possible and very dry, it was back to normal and more softer and smoother.
Duration: Around 1-1.5 hours
Price: Rs.1000 to 1500/- depending on the salon from where you get it done.
L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil Ritual is available at all major salons all over India.
Here are the ‘Before-After’ pics, ignore the half hair behind :/
The ritual is pretty economical and any salon nearby you would be doing it for about 1000 bucks, I definitely recommend getting it done once in 2 months, if you don’t have the time to get it done once in a month. It makes a huge difference to the hair.
I also got the Mythic Oil range for personal use and would review the range too after using it for about a month or so.
Have you tried the L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil Range yet? Will you try this experiental?
P.S: Services were offered by the brand in exchange of review but that has not affected my opinion.
It is always said that what you eat shows on your skin. So, always eat healthy to keep your skin healthy. But in this age of junk foods and fried foods eating healthy is really not possible. Now, who can resist the tasty pizza and chats???At least I can’t. So, all these fast fried foods take a toll on your skin. When a pimple appears, this is the time when we think that it is the end of the world. But frankly speaking pimple appreance is quite normal. But when pimple takes the form of acne and when this acne leaves a mark on your skin then that it something really serious.
So, here I will be showing you an age old popular method of reducing pimples and keeping your skin healthy. You might have heard from your grandma’s about blood purifiers. Well, they used to have all herbal measures for their skin. But today, we don’t have many herbal methods for us. But Himalaya Safi blood purifier is one among the few products which assist can you in the path of healthy and glowing skin.
Product Description – The herbal remedy for skin disease such as acne vulgaris, boils, skin rashes, blemishes, urticaria etc, checks nose bleeding, cures constipation, corrects indigestion and improves complexion and helps you to stay slim and smart.
Directions to use: Just put 1-2 spoons of the purifier in the glass and drink it. You will gradually get adjusted to the taste.
Price: Rs.152 for 500 ml, Rs.80/- for 200ml
Shelf Life 36 months from packaging
Ingredients:
Packaging – The bottle is available in different sizes – .But I suggest to buy the smaller size to test its effectiveness. The packaging is of rectangular box which is green in colour. The bottle has the entire product name and other details mentioned. Inside which there is a transparent bottle. I like transparent bottles as they show the quantity of product left. The bottle is sealed and tightly enclosed to prevent the product from spilling out.
Key ingredients:Sana, Revand Chini, Neem, tulsi and Chiraita.
Texture: A Blood Purifier is definitely liquid in texture. The liquid is not on thicker side. It is actually quite runny. If you want to drink it with water it will easily get dissolved in water within no time.
My Experience with Hamdard Safi Blood Purifier
The liquid is dark brown in colour. Now, coming to the major part of taste. The taste of this blood purifier is really yukk. It tastes very sour. I need to drink one glass of water after drinking only 1 spoon of this purifier. But as it is said you have to taste something bad for the bigger good in your life. If you feel the taste is too sour then you can also dilute with water and then drink.
Performance wise don’t expecting anything miracle in the first bottle. Even if you drink daily then also I doubt you can observe any changes. Now, you can doubt if it actually works or not. But trust me girls it does. You can see changes on your 4th or 5th bottle. Since it is meant to purify blood thus changes will be gradual and quite slow. But when it start showing effects on your skin don’t stop it immediately, keep drinking some more bottles. Gradually you can see your skin all glowing and healthy.
Even one bottle will last long. With my daily usage size bottle lasted me for 3 months. So, quite economical that way. And you can get it easily in pharmacy stores and even on online portal.
Pros of Hamdard Safi Blood Purifier –
1. Herbal brand
2. Affordable price
3. Comes in different variants
4. Easy to use
5. Purifies blood on a long term.
Cons of Hamdard Safi Blood Purifier –
1. Takes time to show result
2. Tastes too bad
Rating – 4.5/5
Would I recommend the product to you – Of course. This product is definitely a buy. It must be a staple in your daily routine.
Editor’s Note: I have heard so much about it since ages, was going to try this when my skin was in a terrible state during my teens, but I am so scared of the taste :/ But I know of people who religiously drink it everyday from the past many years.
If you follow me on twitter, you would be knowing about the new Whisper Ultra Clean. They also had a Bloggers’ Meet on 19th Dec where Aditi Mittal, Kalki Koechlin were present, more on the event later.
I had received this new Whisper Ultra Clean at the start of December with the event invite and I tried it last month.
What it claims: It claims to have 1000 suction holes which absorb upto 100% wetness offering more dryness, faster absorption and more protection. Magic Gel Crystals, Odour Lock technology, extra long and a softer, comfortable top cover.
One Whisper Ultra Clean = 5 Ordinary Pads
I have always used Whisper Ultra and was all eager to try this new and improved version. I loved the packaging and how it came in this wooden basket and had this white and green theme going on.
I did feel the change in these newer pads, having used Whisper Ultra always, these ones definitely offered more dryness and I also like the fact that these are XL and long enough to not worry about sleeping or staining the bed sheet.
There are a lot of taboos associated with periods in India. When I was young, my grandmother told me that whenever I get my periods or they just start and I see it, I should immediately go and have a bath including hair bath. I used to follow it for a few years as I was quite naive about the entire periods thing. There were times when I had some important work and was getting late and still had to go and take a bath as I got my periods. As soon as I matured, I realized this ‘custom’ had no logic or reasoning and I stopped following it. Other such taboos are not touching the pickle during periods as it would turn bad, not touching idols or worshipping or going to temples, etc. While I don’t believe in any of the others and don’t follow them, I still avoid going to temples only not to irk someone else’s sentiments or beliefs.
And coming to owing those 5 days, I consider those days as any other days and live normally. My first day at times is a little painful and I usually take a tablet if it obstructs my work or I have to go out. I either go for Spasmonil or Cycolpam, Cyclopam is a little heavy and half an hour you feel a bit weird post having it. I am stuck to Spasmonil ever since I have used it. I don’t go for a tablet unless the pain or cramps are a lot. Few things which doctors recommend and I try to follow and which work for me during those five days are less salt, less caffeine, light exercise, hot water bag, etc.
You can try a free sample of the new Whisper Ultra Clean, just go HEREand register 🙂
What do you follow to #OwnThose5Days? Have you tried the new Whisper Ultra yet?
Today, I will be reviewing another product from the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow range which is the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25. I have already reviewed the serum (Read HERE) from the same range and I had been using this day cream together with the serum for synergic effect. Read on to know how it fares.
Products claims:
WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a breakthrough formulation from Lotus Herbals that lightens, whitens & brightens your skin tone.
* Lightens: It lightens skin’s tone by reducing uneven pigmentation.
* Whitens: It unveils visibly fairer skin by reducing dark spots.
* Brightens: It enhances skin’s radiance naturally.
Why Gel Creme: WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a revolutionary fairness solution that incorporates the advantages of a gel and a creme.
* Spreads easily on your skin.
* Advanced formula allows for better delivery of active ingredients.
* Good for all skin types including oily and combination skin.
How it works: Clinical trials show that the following plant extracts lighten, whiten and brighten the skin with 7 days of regular use:
* Grape Extract (Vitis Vinifera): Exfoliator – helps active ingredients penetrate into the skin.
WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening range is a breakthrough formula from Lotus Herbals. It comes with an advance formula that has triple action on skin – lightening, whitening & brightening. It is enriched with rare fruit and potent plant extracts that penetrate deep into the skin to provide enduring action. The result, your skin looks fairer, flawless and radiant. It is free from harsh chemicals, that generally have side effects.
Ingredients:
Directions to use: Use every day in the morning & evening all over face & neck after cleansing thoroughly with Whiteglow 3 in 1 Deep Cleansing Skin Whitening Facial Foam. For synergic effect, use in conjunction with Whiteglow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum.
Packaging: The day cream comes in a convenient, squeezable tube packaging with a grey screw cap. There is an outer carton box with all the details of the product printed on it. The entire packaging is compact and travel-friendly. I carry it in my handbag to office and use it in the afternoon for freshening up. There is also a bigger size which comes in a tub-like packaging. But, I prefer tubes over tub as they are more hygienic, so I got this.
Texture and fragrance: Now, actually I expected this to be a gel-based creme from the product name. But it turned out to be not a gel, but a regular cream. I don’t have any issues with that, but I feel that the name is misleading. Someone who is particular about getting a gel creme, might end up with this on seeing the name. Coming to the cream, it is milky white in color with a very light consistency. The fragrance is like the signature Whiteglow range scent, a subtle mix of floral and fruity.
My experience: I have been using this day cream in conjuction with the serum from the same range. The cream is very light and gets absorbed easily without leaving behind any greasiness or stickiness. It also hydrates the skin well, though very dry skin people might need something more. There is a light dewy effect which I love. Unlike other whitening creams, it doesn’t leave behind any whitish cast. It basically performs the role of a day cream well – moisturizes without making face oily and has SPF 25 for sun protection. But apart from that, I haven’t observed any other whitening or brightening effect. To test the efficacy of this, I stopped the serum for a week and was using only this day cream. And there was no visible results as such. I feel the serum and the night cream are the most effective ones in this Whiteglow range. If you wish to try only one or two products from this range, I would recommend only these two. The day cream and face wash can be used additionally for a synergic effect. But alone, they are not helpful much for whitening or brightening.
Pros:
* Light and easily absorbed.
* Moisturizes and hydrates skin well.
* Doesn’t cause oiliness or greasiness.
* Contains SPF-25 for sun protection.
* Gives a nice dewy effect.
* Compact, travel-friendly packaging.
* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.
* Doesn’t cause breakouts.
* Suitable for all skin types.
Cons:
* Parabens.
* No whitening or brightening effects as claimed.
* Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin people.
* Its a cream, not gel. Misleading name.
Price and quantity: Rs.99 for 20g and Rs.345 for 60g.
Rating: 4.2/5
Verdict: Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 is a good day cream for all skin types. It moisturizes skin well without causing any oiliness and also has SPF-25 for sun protection. Two things to be noted are – one, don’t get fooled by its name of gel, its actually a cream, but light in texture. Secondly, there is no whitening/brightening effect as claimed.
Editor’s Note: I really like the sound of the Lotus Herbals White Glow Range, nice review Archana 🙂
Lotus Herbals YouthRx Gineplex Anti-Ageing Skin Care Range Review
Hi guys,
If you follow me on Snapchat (add me if you are not following yet! bhumika_t 😀 ) you might be knowing that I had taken up the Lotus Herbals #ReverseYourAge 1 month challenge. We had to click selfies every week for the difference to be visible on the skin. I have been using this entire range for around a month now and here is my review.
Let me tell you something about this range and what is common throughout the range. It comes in this pretty gold and purple packaging, the packaging is quite nice. Most of the stuff are easy to carry around, except the jars which are made of glass and kind of heavy. The serum bottle is also made of glass but it is very very thick and not something that will break easily.
The main ingredients in the entire Gineplex range are Ginger, Ginseng and Milk Peptide complex (Hence the name Gineplex) which are the key ingredients in anti-ageing + hydration+ firming. The entire kit costs around Rs.3000/-
Lotus Youth Rx Active Anti-Ageing Foaming Gel
Benefits : –
* Prevent signs of ageing.
* Reveals a glowing complexion instantly.
* Enhances skin renewal and restores elasticity.
How To Apply :-
* Apply with wet hands massage gently on to the Face & neck.
* Massage gently for 2 -3 minutes.
* Rinse well.
Active Ingrdients :- Jojoba seeds, ginseng, ginger, milk peptide complex.
Results :- Skin looks and feels fresh, soft and revitalized
Price: Rs.225/- for 100 gm
Ingredients:
It has a rotating cap packaging and is off white in color, has a texture mix of gel-creme and has small, brown jojoba seeds. It does not foam much but cleanses all the dirt, grime and basic makeup. It feels more like a scrub than face wash. I do not like foam based face washes, so this is just perfect for me. It does not dry the skin at all and the gentle exfoliation removes the dry skin flakes in winter. It is absolutely perfect for winter and I love this face wash/foaming gel. It is not meant for people who love heavy duty foaming though.
Lotus Herbals Youth RX PH Balancing Multi Active Toner
MRP: Rs.325/- for 100ml
Ingredients:
The toner comes in a plastic bottle with a spray nozzle and a cap. 2 pumps are perfect, I mostly use it directly taking it on my palms and not use a cotton pad, works both ways. I absolutely love this toner, it is alcohol free and non drying. Plus it has green tea and castor oil which in turn tighten your pores and hydrate your skin. This toner again is perfect for winters and for dry skin too. One of the best toners currently in India. This toner balances the pH level of your skin and brings it to the normal 5.5
It contains the highest concentration of the revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’ which gives it 10 times the anti-ageing power of a day crème. It’s a 2-in-1 formula of Serum + Crème –
1. Serum penetrates the skin quickly and delivers 10X* more ‘GINEPLEX YOUTH COMPOUND’ to the dermal layer, boosting collagen production.
2. Crème nourishes, hydrates and restores skin moisture.
MRP: Rs.695/- for 30ml
Ingredients:
One of my most favourite product from this range. It comes in a very thick glass bottle with a cap and a pump dispensor. Again a mix of gel+cream consistency. It is very light and gets absorbed into the skin in a jiffy. I just need one pump and it hydrates and nourishes the skin. I can even skip a cream post using this, coz it hydrates wonderfully even in these winters. Skin feels soft and smooth instantly.
It is a ‘Green Science’ miracle. It comes with the breakthrough ‘Gineplex Youth Compund’ derived from potent natural ingredients and is clinically proven for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. It is enriched with SPF 25 PA+++ for protection against sun damage which results in ageing of skin.
Results: Visibly reduces appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, spots in 7 days* Makes skin look firmer, younger and glowing.
MRP: Rs.545/- for 50g
Ingredients:
Both the day and night creams come in a thick glass jar which is quite heavy. They have a separate cap between the lid and the product. It is light pink in color and light in texture. It does not make the skin greasy and hydrates the dry patches on the skin, without the heavy feeling. Both day and night creams have almost the same ingredients with some minor difference. Key being light liquid paraffin, glycerine, Vitamin E Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Apart from Gineplex) which are great for hydration and work on blemishes and scars.
Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme
With the latest advancements in ‘Green Science’ at its core, it is a night crème for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. Lotus Youth Rx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme visibly reduces fine lines and opens pores by nourishing the skin overnight.
Results: You wake up to an optimally hydrated and dewy, fresh skin.
MRP: Rs.525/- for 50g
Ingredients:
The day cream has a gold base and purple lid and the night cream is vice-versa. I like how the packaging is different and it helps to identify the creams. Night cream is white in color and slightly richer in texture, though does not make the skin feel heavy, it takes 1-2 minutes to get absorbed completely and skin looks as if nothing is applied on it.
The eye cream comes in this sleek tube with a nozzle dispensor, be careful when dispensing coz way too much product comes out. You just need a tiny bit on your ring finger, blend both ring fingers and apply under the eye and massage very lightly for a few seconds. It is off white in colour and gel like in texture. It feels very cooling and tingling. Since I do not have wrinkles, I did not notice any much of a difference with this one. Not a love, but kinda ok.
Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Active Anti-Ageing Exfoliator
Its unique ‘TRIPLE ACTION FORMULA’ gently exfoliates, protects and nourishes the skin from within. It gently removes dead skin cells to reveal a younger and healthier looking skin.
Active Ingredients: Vanilla Beans, Ginseng, Ginger, Milk Peptide Complex
Results: Instantly reveals younger and healthier looking skin
MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g
Ingredients:
It has a rotating cap packaging and is white gel like in texture with black vanilla beans extracts. The scrub is very mild and gentle, it is good for everyday or every alternate day too. It is not heavy duty scrubbing, so if you like those walnut particles scrubs, you will find this very mild. This will work for sensitive skin too. I would say it’s ok, scrubbing particles could have been a little more stronger.
Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti – Ageing firming Face Masque
It is enriched with unique Algae Extract & revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’. It detoxifies & resurfaces the skin at cellular level. It nourishes & hydrates your skin, revitalizes texture, reduces pore size and removes dead skin flakes. It does not cause dryness unlike other masques.
MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g
Ingredients:
The masque has a flip cap and is a gel+creme texture again. It is not like those thick, cream based masques. It will come out clear and transparent on the skin. I keep it on for 10-12 minutes and then wash it off. It gives a tight feeling when it dries. I haven’t seen any reduction in pore skin but yes it does not dry out skin at all unlike other masques as claimed. And also skin feels firm and plump.
I have been using this entire range for a month now and I can see visible difference in my skin. Find below my selfies taken every week, while using this range.
R-L: Foaming Gel, Serum, Day Creme, Night Creme, Eye Creme, Exfoliator, Face Masque
I received this kit when I shifted to a new place and my skin was in the most horrible state ever. I had way too many break outs, spots, dryness and redness on the skin. Within a week, as you can see in the 2nd selfie, I noticed the difference. In fact, I felt the difference in 2-3 days and skin already felt smooth, soft, hydrated and more even with less redness and the dryness was all gone.
L-R: Week 1 to 4
I again broke out last week coz of travelling, change in climate and water plus it was way too cold in Jaipur and I have not been drinking enough water in the winters, it directly shows on my skin. But what I like the most about this range is, the breakouts dry our immediately and the range starts working on the scars and they fade away quickly too.
The entire range smells fresh and amazing, I love the smell especially of serum and day/night creams. This is slightly on the expensive side but the quantity is amazing! I am using it twice everyday since a month and I have not even finished 10% of the toner and day/night creams. Serum is 30ml and using it twice, so might finish sooner and same with the foaming gel. Even exfoliator and face masque I use once a week, so would last long.
Though I cannot comment on wrinkles as I don’t have them, but skin definitely feels firm, plump, soft, smooth and hydrated. If you are nearing 30 and already feeling the dryness on the skin or are over 30, this range is definitely a must try! Gift this to your mom or MIL and they will definitely love it.
My most favourite products from this range are the foaming gel, toner and serum. I like the day and night cream too.
Rating: 4/5
I loved taking up this challenge and my skin is loving it too 🙂
Did you take up the #ReverseYourAge Challenge? Have you tried the Lotus Herbals YouthRx Range before?
Wella Professionals Elements Range Launch & First Impressions
Hi guys,
A few ago I attended a new launch by Wella Professionals, the Elements Range at House of Tales in Kala Ghoda. It was launched by Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp and the Elements Range Brand Ambassador Nimrat Kaur.
Since it is all about green, forest and natural, the theme was white and green and the entire setup was white and green too. We were even sent a ‘Peace Lily’ plant invite in a white tea pot which is extremely cute and useful. I have kept it in my balcony 🙂
Wella Professionals introduced Elements to the Indian market ; it is the first Wella Professionals range of care products which are free of sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants. Wella Professionals has also specially created a new fragrance, inspired by the green wood’s of the Amazon forest.
Wella Professionals Elements is inspired by nature to provide up to ten times more strength against breakage* for renewed hair vitality. Wella Professionals Elements protects the integral keratin structure, keeping your hair shiny and healthy, but without some of the chemicals usually associated with hair care products. Keratin is the principal component of hair – a protein which acts as the building blocks of the hair. If the keratin is degenerated, the hair will become weak and will lose its shine.
Sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants are commonly used, safe ingredients in hair care and have been extensively tested but some people wish to avoid them, so the scientists at Wella Professionals have developed the exclusive NuTREE complex.
The NuTree complex is enriched with natural tree extract – a powerful antioxidant which helps reduce free radical damage. Sustainably sourced in Germany, the natural tree extract also has anti-irritant properties to balance and calm the scalp.
The natural tree extract is joined by panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, which penetrates deeply into the hair to repair the inner keratin cell structure and bind moisture in the hair. The result is hair which looks smooth, healthy and is nourished from the roots to the tips.
Commenting on this addition to the Wella Professional range of Products, Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp said, “I think natural products have made their way back in fashion. People are becoming increasingly aware of the ingredients contained in the products that they use in everyday life– such as hair care products. As part of trying to live a healthy lifestyle, they are now looking for more natural alternatives which contain fewer chemicals, but do not compromise on performance.”
Nimrat Kaur talked about how she goes through a lot of heat and hair styling and dozens of chemicals in those hair styling products, on an everyday basis. And she would love to use something natural and free of chemicals as her scalp is quite sensitive and something that soothes and calms the sensitive scalp is perfect for her. She tried the Wella Pro Elements Range over her oiled, styled hair and was astonished by the results.
On the first row listening attentively like a student 🙂With Vipra and Aditi
I have used it 3-4 times till now and here are my first impressions.
Claims: Renew hair vitality and reveal its natural beauty. Elements’ NuTREE complex helps to repair and protect hair from keratin degeneration and is perfectly suited for colored hair.
Renewing Shampoo Claims: Sulfate free shampoo that renews the moisture of the hair, preserving and nourishing it from root to tip. Exists in 30 ml, 250 ml, 1000 ml.
HOW TO USE: Apply to damp hair and massage gently into a lather. Rinse thoroughly.
TEXTURE: Luxurious foaming experience
Ingredients:
MRP: Rs.975/- for 250ml
Renewing Mask Claims: Paraben free repairing mask that intensively restores and preserves the natural inner structure and strength of the hair. Exists in 30 ml, 150 ml, 500 ml.
HOW TO USE: Apply after shampooing. Massage and leave for 5 minutes. Rinse out.
TEXTURE: Extra lightweight cream
Ingredients:
MRP: Rs.1075/- fro 150ml
It comes in a white bottle with green plant picture on the packaging. It is a flip cap bottle and let me warn you that it is not travel friendly. I carried it along on my recent trip to Jaipur and it messed up my entire bag :/ If we intend to carry it with you, make sure you tape or seal the cap, then you are good to go.
The mask comes in a tub packaging that is safe to carry around and easy to store and use.
The shampoo is transparent and slightly runny in texture. It has this woody, foresty smell which I really liked. It foams like nobody’s business. It will help you get rid of all the oil in one go, but if your hair is quite oily or dirty or if you are using hard water, you may need to shampoo twice. I had to use it twice in Jaipur with the hard water.
The renewing mask is thick and white in color and it has the normal ‘shampoo’ fresh smell. The mask is quite hydrating and nice, it controlled my frizz even in super cold climate.
Using both the shampoo and mask together gave soft, smooth, hydrated, frizz free hair. But make sure you do not use too much of the mask or it will weigh your hair down.
I am really happy that this range is sulphates and parabens free. If you have straightened/colored your hair or have gone for cysteine or anything such, this range is perfect for you as going sulphate free will keep the color/straight effect for a longer duration.
L- Mask, R- Shampoo
Plus sulphate free is anyway good for all types of hair, just that it takes a few washes for the benefit to show on your hair since the hair is so used to the normal sulphate shampoos.
Though the range is slightly on the expensive side, it is like an investment to maintain your color/cysteine.
Wella Elements is available in all leading salons across India such as Jean Claude Biguine, Affinity, Bodycraft, Toni & Guy , Strands, Tresslounge and Headturners.
What do you think about Wella Elements Pro? Which sulphate free range do you use? Will you try this range? Do let me know in the comments below.
L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick Lincoln Rose Review, Swatches
By Ishleen
Hello there, gorgeous!
So the holiday spirit has finally seeped in, and seeped in with a BAM! With the ethereal beauty of winters and the New Year’s party knocking down the corner, it is always a great opportunity to get hold of a red lipstick, and make your pout shine in all its blooming glory! <3
So after a lot of contemplation so as to spend almost a thousand bucks for a drugstore lipstick or to add 500 bucks more and get our patent MAC, I finally succumbed to buying this gorgeously packaged lipstick from L’Oreal in Lincoln Rose! Was it worth succumbing to the temptation? Keep reading to know more!
Product Description
Name- L’Oreal Moist Mat Lipstick
Shade- Lincoln Rose
Price- INR 899
Quantity- 4.2 grams
Availability- Available across all L’Oreal counters as well as online
My experience:
Packaging– If ever there was a love at first sight moment for me, it was when I saw this gorgeous little baby at the L’Oreal counter! Those of you who know me, know what a sucker I am for classy as well as cute packaging—they just make me go weak in the knees! And if the packaging is chic as well as in a hue of rose gold with uber classy mirror-like finish—count me in baby! So now you know why people are raving about this lipstick range so much—it is love at first sight, truly! But yes, the packaging though nice on the exterior, is quite flimsy on the inside! I mean, the lipstick tube is like really feeble and prone to breakage upon the slightest pressure; so just be cautious!
Texture- L’Oreal has this thing of playing with names—and so has been done with L’Oreal Moist Mat Range! I mean, the name is pretty intriguing—how can a moist lipstick be matte, and how can a matte lipstick be moist? But breaking the obnoxious monotony of dehydrating mattes, L’Oreal Paris has come up with the most amazing matte textured lipsticks which though settle into a powdery matte finish, yet is not at all dry. It glides on super smooth and does not look flaky. It indeed is a moist matte lipstick—the most wonderful texture I have used till date! Nothing like Mac retro mattes, but definitely similar to the Mac Satin finish lipsticks!
Shade- This particular shade is the most coveted of the lot and is mostly out of stock across all stores. And why should it not be—our miss universe Aishwarya Rai Bacchan had worn it for the Cannes Film Festival and flaunted the most amazing pout ever! The lipstick shade—as gorgeous as the outer packaging—is a very vibrant medium red with invariably strong pink-berry undertones which promises to flatter each and every skin tone! Perhaps it is the most stunning pink based medium red which is bold, but not at all in your face bright! A must try shade from the lot!
Pigmentation- Apart from the texture, if there is one thing that left me totally love struck; it is the super opaque pigmentation of the lipstick! I mean even the darkest of pigmentation (on lips, obviously :P) can be camouflaged easily with just two swipes of this lipstick! And if you have naturally pink lips, i.e., without any sort of pigmentation—one light stroke is all that it would take to get the colour in full bloom on the lips!
Staying power- these are drying winter months and I prefer using a lip balm underneath even the most creamiest of the lipsticks! And though, Moist Mat is matte, I can easily do even without a lip balm! Yes, it is that smooth to use! Atop a lip balm it stays for about 4+ hours and does not leave horrendously stained lips behind. But if applied sans any lip balm, the wear time can be prolonged to a good 6-7 hours, though it will stain the lips (which are not at all gross to look at; in fact, gives a nice raspberry tint upon fading)!
Pros:
-gorgeous packaging
-colour coded tabs on the lipstick tube
-very comfortable matte lipstick]
-not at all drying
-can be worn even without a lip balm
-super-opaque
-covers pigmented lips well
-lasts on the lips for a good 4-6 hours
Cons:
-price (900 bucks for a drugstore lipstick! Like, seriously?) *SIGH*
-flimsy lipstick tube which is prone to breakage
-may melt in the summer months
Final verdict: If you are on the look out of a nice pink based red, with very strong pink undertones—which is matte, comfortable to apply and wears well—go grab this beauty!
Rating: 4.7/5
Editor’s Note: Totally agree Ishleen, absolutely love the shade!
This season they have Lakme Salon Bridal Stylists who will take care of all the needs of a bride from skin to hair to makeup. They will advice her what all services she requires or can go for, makeup for her pre-wedding functions or the wedding. Basically create a customised package as per the bride’s requirements. Check out more details at www.lakmebridalstylist.in
Here is the Bridal Takeaway Menu and Prices..
I tried one of the services as a part of the Bridal package i.e. the Luminence 3+ Ritual Facial and here is my review on it.
Luminance 3+ Ritual is meant for lightening the skin i.e. it targets pigments/scars. It is also suitable for tanned & dull skin. it gives the skin a glow which the brides need, hence the name ‘Luminence’. It gives hydrated, soft and supple skin. Pregnant ladies or person suffering from fever or anything in particular are not advised to go for it.
Steps involved:
1. Skin is cleansed at first with a foam based cleanser.
2. A creamy exfoliator is used and massaged on the skin.
3. Steam is given on the face & comedones are extracted.
4. Vitamin C concentrated serum is applied on the skin.
5. It if followed by a massage with a night cream.
6. A peel off lightening pack is applied and it is kept for 10-15 minutes till it dries.
7. A toner is applied at the end.
Duration : Around 75 minutes
Price: Around Rs.4000/-
My skin was not tanned, so no immediate difference can be seen. Skin definitely felt moisturized, soft and supple. It takes 2-3 days for the results to show and my skin looked and felt healthier in 1-2 days. Here is my ‘Before’ and next day ‘After’
Before-After
Few Dont’s:
DO NOT go out in the sun immediately post this treatment or use a lot of sunscreen if you have to.
DO NOT wash your face for 10-12 hours with anything except water.
Overall I would say I love the bridal services at Lakme Salon and definitely recommend the brides-to-be to get a package customized for themselves as per their requirements.
P.S: Service was offered in exchange of honest review but that has not affected my opinion.
