Patanjali Neem-Aloe Vera with Cucumber Face Pack Review
By Simli
Hi lovelies!
Smooth soft and clear skin is what we all wish for. But somehow all of us somewhere fail to achieve it, we suffer from clogged pores, rough skin which is not soft and also not a pleasant feeling.
Lately I went up to a local Patanjali store and bought a face pack from pratanjali . It is known as neem-aloevera face pack, below neem-aloevera its written in very small font “with cucumber”
What the product claims: “Clear clogged pores,cools,soothes and softens skin”
It also says ” A unique blend of pure herbs for clear glowing skin. Nimb (neem) full of anti bacterial properties regulates excess oil secretion, clear clogged pores,skin impurities impart natural glow to your face”
The product is off white in color. Creamy and spreads well. The consistency is neither runny nor thick
Packaging:
White color Plastic tube with name written on it and is having a flip open cap. The packaging is quite travel friendly. The product doesn’t spill out in the cap.
My experience:
Having oily skin everything that has neem and Aloe vera attracts me a lot. This product says that it has neem and aloe vera thus I ended up buying this. It didn’t break me out, had no pimples or rashes after using this.
It smells very herbal, people liking herbal smell may find it pleasant. The consistency is very good, it spreads evenly and without any problem onto my face. After applying it, it gives a cooling sensation which I feel is because of the presence of aloe vera and cucumber in it.
I have been using this product for a month now and am quite happy with the results. I apply it in exact same way as mentioned on its back and keep it on my face for 15 minutes. I let it dry completely. After rinsing it off my face looks fresh and rejuvenated. It doesn’t makes my skin glowing but it does clear my face. Containing neem I expected that it will give tingling sensation to my face but it didn’t and I feel so good about it.
It can be used as a regular face pack. Neem and aloe vera both are good for pimples plus fuller’s earth helps absorb oil and cucumber acts as a toner and calms the skin, I think this will also keep my pimples away. I’m quite satisfied with this product, for the price its a very good product.
I’m almost about to finish this product and will be buying this again. For anyone who is not willing to invest in something very costly for their skin care, can definitely go for this product. It is value for money.
Pros:
● economical
● value for money
● pleasant herbal smell
● clears skin
● no tingling sensation
● clears clogged pores
Cons:
● I very much like this product and do not find any con except that it contains parabens in it.
Rating: 4/5
Recommended!
Editor’s Note: This sounds pretty good, in my Patanjali list of products to try. Nice review Simli
Have you tried the Patanjali Neem-Aloe Vera with Cucumber Face Pack?
Best 10 Face Washes for Acne/Breakout Prone Skin Available in India, Prices, Buy Online
By Sanchita
Who doesn’t want a clear acne free skin? Well, Indian weather is mostly tropical and most of the habitable areas are prone of hot and humid conditions. Therefore, the skin breaks out pretty bad. However, if you take good care of the skin and use the skin care products which aims to help the breakout situation, then you can surely keep them at bay. First and foremost, you have to keep the dirt and impurities away to avoid breakouts. We have listed out the best 10 face wash for acne or breakout prone skin available in India and includes both budget friendly and high end options.
1. Clean and Clear Foaming Facial Wash – Price Rs. 110 for 100ml (Buy HERE) (Review HERE)
The Clean and Clear Foaming Facial Wash is one of the popular budget friendly face wash available in India. It comes in a simple transparent bottle with a flip open cap system. The face wash has a gel like light consistency, slightly thick and orangish in color. It foams really well and cleanses the skin without making it dry and parched. It helps in drying out the acne only and keep the skin clean and unclog the pores as well. It has salicylic acid which helps the acne to dry out and leaves skin feeling clean and beautifully clear.
Neutrogena is surely one of the trusted brand when it comes to skin care. It has a very convenient packaging and the product is extremely gentle on the skin. It contains Salicylic acid which is known to get rid of acne and prevents future break outs. The removes the layer of oil and dirt from the skin and since it is gel based, it will not dry out the skin. It is also a great one for sensitive skin and dermatologically tested. The skin is healthy and rejuvenated.
3. Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash – Price Rs. 140 for 150ml (Buy HERE) (Review HERE)
Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash is surely one of the popular choice for acne prone skin. It is a soap free face wash filled with herbal ingredients that helps you remove every layer of dirt, oiliness and grime clogged in the pores and prevents the breakouts. It is formulated with neem which is well-known for its anti-bacterial properties, kills problem causing bacteria, and Turmeric effectively controls acne and pimples. It takes some time to show the result so you have to be a little patient with the face wash. Also, it may dry out the skin slightly.
4. NEW Pond’s Pimple Clear Face Wash – Price Rs. 125 for 100g (Buy HERE)
Pond’s has launched the new Pimple Clear Face comes in a white opaque tube with a suitable flip open cap. It has Thymo-T Essence which works much better on skin in controlling pimples than salicylic acid. It claims to work on acne in flat 3 days! The herbal clay helps in absorbing oil and keeping pores clear.
5. Lotus Herbals Tea Tree and Cinnamon Anti-Acne Oil Control Face Wash – Price Rs. 175 for 120g (Buy HERE)
Lotus Herbals Tea Tree and Cinnamon Anti-Acne Oil Control Face Wash is another great face wash for oily acne prone skin. It has a thick gel consistency with minute beads which are very mild on the skin. It clears out the skin very well, controls oil without drying out the skin at all. The skin feels extremely refreshing. The ingredients are really powerful which as tea tree oil which is anti-microbial, anti-acne, antioxidant, fights skin infection. The cinnamon and oak bark will also help the skin a lot.
6. Garnier Skin Naturals Pure Active Neem and Tulsi Foaming Face Wash – Price Rs. 105 for 100g (Buy HERE)
The Garnier Skin Naturals Pure Active Neem and Tulsi Foaming Face Wash has a transparent bottle with a flip open cap. The face wash has a gel like slight runny consistency which feels mild on the skin. It lathers abundantly and requires a very little amount. It removes every layer of external impurities and provides a clean and refreshed skin. The neem and tulsi is extremely good for oily acne prone skin and makes the skin radiant slightly. The face wash takes slight time though if you have heavy acne formation on skin.
7. The Body Shop Tea Tree Facial Wash – Price Rs. 695 for 250ml (Buy HERE)
This was a God-sent product for my skin and I can’t stop praising it. The face wash comes in a fat bottle which has green colored gel like consistency. It helps to clear out the skin well and removes every layer of dirt, impurities and oiliness. The tea tree formulation is great for acne prone skin and gives a cooling and refreshing skin. It helps to prevent the acne and pimples, controls the oil yet doesn’t dry out the skin and also helps in removing the blemishes. This is one of the most effective and highly recommended face wash for acne prone skin.
8. The Body Shop Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash – Price Rs. 895 for 125ml (Buy HERE)
Another gem of a product from the house of TBS. this Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash comes in a tube form with a flip open cap. It has a clear gel like consistency and helps in removing make-up, impurities and excess oil. It also helps in balancing moisture and sebum levels as it cleanses the skin. It is formulated with seaweed that has vitamins and minerals and hydrate the skin without getting oily. It also helps in keeping the acne at bay and gives a healthy matte finish to the skin.
9. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser – Price Rs. 450 for 50ml (Buy HERE)
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser is best suited for normal to oily or combination skin. It helps in purifying the skin and eliminates impurities and excess sebum while leaving the skin clean and fresh. The product is soap free, alcohol free, colorant free as well as paraben free. It lathers well and works great for sensitive skin as well. Overall, the face wash might be slightly expensive but it is a great one for the acne prone skin.
The Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser comes in a small travel friendly bottle and has a clear gel like consistency. It foams well and great for oily, combination, or acne prone skin. It helps in removing surface oils, dirt and make-up without leaving the skin dry. It also cleanses the skin and unclogs the pores. The face wash has a neutral formula and also non-comedogenic.
Avene Cleanance Gel’s soapless base cleanses your skin gently and leaves it feeling refreshed. The glyceryl laurate it contains will regulate excess sebum and mattify your skin.
I had to add Avene Cleanance Gel, it is my absolute favourite! Holy Grail. It is fantastic for acne prone skin and one bottle lasts you 3-4 months, so very economical!
Editor’s Note: I have mostly tried all of these and absolutely agree with your list. I had to add Avene, both Avene and Himalaya Purifying Neem are my Holy Grail, something I would come back to always and keep buying my entire life 😀 Must, must try! I also like the Clean & Clear and Neutrogena one. Currently testing the new Pond’s Pimple Clear, it is amazing! I highly recommend the Pond’s one for acne prone skin.
INTRODUCTION – Summer takes a heavy toll on my skin and now that I had to go out in the sun for few weeks regularly, the terrible acne returned and I had no idea on how to deal with it. I generally use homemade face mask but honestly speaking, I hardly get time to mix the products and apply. I bought this Patanjali Divya Kantilep some time back and used it to prevent the breakouts. So instead of going for an elaborated face mask I prefer using this on the acne prone areas and it has given me some good results.
Read on to know more about the products in details.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Divya Kanti lep instantaneously cures skin disorders, viz. pimples, acne, wrinkles on face, loss of shining & luster, darkness etc. Divya Kanti Lep absorbs all the complaints of the skin as a result of which the skin again becomes healthy, the natural beauty of the face reappears. It also promotes splendor, shining and luster on the face. Divya Kanti lep instantaneously cures skin disorders, viz. pimples, acne, wrinkles on face, loss of shining & luster, darkness etc. Divya Kanti Lep absorbs all the complaints of the skin as a result of which the skin again becomes healthy, the natural beauty of the face reappears. It also promotes splendor, shining and luster on the face.
PRICE – 60 INR for 50gm
INGREDIENTS:
MY REVIEW
The product comes in a plastic jar with an opaque body and red screw lid. The packaging is quite sturdy in my opinion and easy to travel with if you wish to. I just wished if there was a spoon given to scoop out the product. Otherwise, it is hygienic enough. The face pack is herbal and hence it is in the form of a power. You can use it in various ways you like. You can mix it with rose water, curd, water or even milk and can also add other ingredients like Multani Mitti, Besan or Orange Peel Powder – whatever your skin prefers. Since I was in a hurry, I apply it with honey and rose water and apply on the affected areas. You can also apply all over the face and neck as well.
The best thing about the product is it is completely herbal and unnecessary paraben and preservative free. The face pack looks muddy dark brown in color and when applied on the face, giving cooling sensation. I have sensitive skin and a lot of product cause burning and irritated sensation however, this was surely an exception. Hence, it is completely safe to use and won’t give much trouble. The face pack takes around 30-45mins to dry up on the face and I simply wash off with chilled water.
The results depends on how you use it but one thing is surely consistent, it cures and prevents pimples. I would not say that it cures acne overnight but within 2-3days you will see the result. Apart from breakouts, I also had few zits and after applying the face pack, the zits disappeared within a day. If you apply the face pack directly with rose water, it gives a yellowish cast to the skin but disappears after 4-5hours. And that is why I never use it for full face unless it is mixed with Sandalwood and Multani Mitti powder. The face pack woks on all skin types as it neither makes the skin greasy nor sucks out every layer of oil. It evens out the skin tone and reduces the pores along with improving the texture of the skin. It also works great for reducing pores and cleansing the skin but it never adds a brightened glow to the skin. If you constantly use this face pack every day, you will surely see the result within 2-3weeks.
OVERALL – Overall, I would say that it is a great herbal face pack with a budget friendly price tag that works on every skin type and a great help for acne prone skin. It not only prevents and reduces acne but also lighten the marks and gives an even out skin tone with regular usage.
WHAT I LIKED
1. Nice packaging.
2. Herbal product.
3. Prevents the acne.
4. Cures the breakout.
5. Even out the skin tone.
6. Cleanse the skin.
7. Can be used with multiple powder face packs.
8. No irritated or burning sensation.
9. Will suit every skin type.
10. Improves the texture of skin.
11. Budget friendly price tag.
WHAT I DISLIKED
1. Takes time to show results.
2. Casts a yellowish layer when used directly with rose water.
3. No added glow or radiance.
RATING – 8/10
RECOMMENDATION – This is a nice herbal product that actually shows some results on the skin without any irritated side effect. I would highly recommend it for acne prone skin and will religious usage, you will not be disappointed at all.
This was also featured in our Top 5 Patanjali Products HERE
Editor’s Note: I will surely give this a try, sounds good.
Eyes are the windows to one’s heart. So true! But they are a lot more than that. They are also indicators of your health. Given the kind of lifestyles we all are living, we frequently tend to cross paths with dark circles, patchiness, discoloration, puffy eyes and what not. The first stage is of denial when we see signs of these pesky woes. Conveniently and more aptly sceptically we wring up our hands in disbelief brushing aside those signs.
A few more days roll by and then those signs begin drawing unwanted attention for people point it out. That sends the ‘Oh-No- Something’s-Wrong’ flag soaring high. Petrified, we wade across over-the-counter measures and what not to allay them but more often than not, such products do not throw positive results. Disappointed, we fall into a whirlpool of pessimism. But hey, worry not. We have a treasure trove of pocket-friendly recipes-none invasive, painful or costing you an arm and a leg at your disposal that’ll leave you heaving a sigh of respite.
1. MALAI/MILK CREAM- Milk has great lightening abilities for the skin and can be a very affordable option for dealing with dark circles under the eyes, which can have great results. Milk cream is a derivative of milk. Being a powerhouse of fats, malai is what you need if you suffer from under-eye discoloration.
PROCEDURE- Simply dab and massage a tbsp. of fresh milk cream using your ring finger (for it is the gentlest in massaging) carefully on your under-eye area. Do not let it enter your eyes. If it does, wash off immediately. That’s it. Sleep with it. In the morning, you can wash it off. Let it work its magic overnight. Continue every night for at least a week. It shows results and how! I vouch for this method provided it is followed painstakingly and regularly. And yes, it softens the area too. Double-whammy, did I hear you say that?
2. ALMOND OIL- Here comes the weapon that has been relied upon since times immemorial to banish those dark circles- Almond oil. Shouldn’t there have been drumrolls in the background as I introduced it?
Coming to its virtues, almond oil is anti-inflammatory, thus it reduces puffy bags under the eyes and dark circles. It is a good source of vitamin K, which improves clotting, reducing discoloration under the eyes.
PROCEDURE- Application is simple. Simply slather and massage the under-eye area with almond oil (few drops) every night dedicatedly without fail for at least a fortnight. Sleep with it and let your skin repair itself overnight.
3. EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL- If almond oil has made an appearance on this list, can EVOO (Extra virgin olive oil) stay far behind? EVOO is the best grade of olive oil for it is least processed and contains maximum nutrition. It comes in glass bottles and is higher than all other variants. It works wonders in allaying wrinkles. Ladies approaching their twilight years can still shed a few years of age off their skin with the help of this wonder oil.
PROCEDURE- Massage a few drops of it on your under-eye area. Please note that massaging is important. That is what matters else the oil will merely sit on your skin and not nourish it the way you want to. Do this every night for 5 minutes gently for at least a fortnight. You will be spellbound with the positive turn of events.
4. GREEN TEA BAGS- Packed with a number of antioxidants, green tea helps banish dark circles and keeps them at bay for as long as you continue sipping (or as I do, gulping) it.
PROCEDURE- Put two green tea bags in the refrigerator for at least an hour. After that, keep them on your eyes. It’s alright if it’s not entirely on your under-eyes. It nourishes eyelashes too so, you have the best of both worlds there.
5. CUCUMBER JUICE- Not only is the cool cucumber (you surely would have heard the phrase ‘as cool as a cucumber’) rich in vitamins and minerals which helps to hydrate, nourish and tone skin, but also brighten the under eye area, so that you can say ‘good bye’ to those pesky dark circles permanently. What needs to be done?
PROCEDURE- Mince a cucumber into a few slices. Actually, two would do. Freeze them for half an hour and then, keep them on your eyes. Bid farewell to all those woes pertaining to your under-eye area.
Editor’s Note: Those are fab tips Nidhal. I swear by almond oil, I am currently using the Cold Pressed Sweet Almond Oil and 3 drops are more than enough! Also just wanted to add, be careful when using the oil, make sure you don’t go too close to the eyes or it doesn’t enter inside, it kind of blurs vision for the entire night :/ Also I recommend the Rogan Badam Shirin, it’s the most economical and easily available option when it comes to purity.
The Body Shop Tea Tree Range 3 in 1, Daily Solution Review
Hi guys,
Today I am reviewing these two new products added in The Body Shop Tea Tree Range. I have been using these since about 2.5 weeks now and here are my thoughts..
The Body Shop Tea Tree Range 3-in-1 Wash Scrub Mask
Claims: A clean and mean multi-tasking cleanser with foaming kaolin clay, volcanic minerals and Community Trade Tea Tree Oil that tackles the appearance of clogged pores, blackheads and shine. Perfect for those with blemish-prone skin. Use this triple threat cleanser as: 1. A daily wash to purify 2. A scrub to clear and tighten the appearance of pores and smooth the skin’s surface 3. A mask to deep cleanse and mattify the skin’s appearance
MRP: Rs.1295/- for 125ml
Ingredients:
This is the star product of this range. It’s a wash, scrub, mask all in one. It comes in a green flip cap tube packaging.
It has a white creamy base with small grey-black granules in it. Now when you use it as a face wash, it doesn’t foam and you actually end up using it as a scrub.
So I feel it should have been scrub/mask only. But as a scrub, it works great. It exfoliates very gently and would be perfect for sensitive skin too.
I love using it as a mask though. And then once it is dried, I wet my hands and scrub it, so basically I use it like both, at once 🙂
It dries super quick, in about 5-7 minutes, since it it clay based. It has a tingly, minty smell and feeling. Skin looks clean and completely matte post washing. It feels tighter and the pores look closed. Since it has tea tree and kaolin clay, this mask is absolutely perfect for oily, acne prone skin.
And the fact that it is multi-tasking is nice, as you can carry only this when you are travelling. Recommended.
The Body Shop Tea Tree Range Anti- Imperfection Daily Solution
Claims: Our 100% Community Trade tea tree oil is infused into the NEW Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution for just the right amount of all-over-face application, to pack a punch against blemishes. The result? A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum at an effective dosage.
MRP: Rs.1595/- for 50ml
Ingredients:
This comes in a big glass bottle with a dropper. The bottle is transparent but has a green tint.
The formula of this daily solution is very light, it feels exactly like water. It is runny and you need one pump i.e. about 8-9 drops for using all over the face. It has a strong tea tree smell.
Tea tree oil is a little concentrated and should be used only on acne and diluted with another base oil or water, if you have sensitive skin. This daily solution is already diluted and hence, safe to use all over the face, even for people with sensitive skin.
With time and regular, continuous use, it also helps in fading acne spots. It also has salicylic acid, alfalfa extracts, aloe vera, tocopherol (Vitamin E) along with tea tree oil.
It does not irritate the skin at all. I have not had any major breakouts since the time I am using this. One-two white heads on the nose, which have also settled down, on their own.
If you have always been a fan of the classic tea tree oil from The Body Shop, you will love this too! It may seem a little expensive, but the quantity offered is a lot. Especially for the Daily Solution, it is 50ml and you need 8-10 drops per use.
The main ingredient of this entire range i.e. tea tree is being sourced from Kenya, helping the farmers there and enriching their lives. As always, The Body Shop does it’s bit.
Also they have a special game created for this range ‘Battle of the Blemishes’, you can play it HERE. You can unlock special offers from The Body Shop clearing each level!
I recommend both these products for oily, acne prone skin. These are perfect additions to the Tea Tree Range.
Have you tried The Body Shop’s 3 in 1 and Daily Solution yet?
Himalaya Herbals Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask Review
Hi guys,
If you follow me on social media, you would have seen this summer kit I got from Himalaya Herbals few days ago including this Orange Peel-Off Mask. I have used something like that ages ago, so I was quite excited to try it again as peel-off masks are fun! 😀
So here are my thoughts on it..
Claims: Himalaya Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask is an effective blend of the natural skin lightening extracts of Orange Peel and Honey which help reduce skin tan from the very first use. Orange Peel works to control melanin synthesis with the peeling action helping to remove skin tan and lightening the skin tone. Honey soothes and moisturizes skin.
Key ingredients:
Orange Peel effectively lightens skin tone and can be very beneficial as it eliminates excess facial oil without damaging the skin. The Vitamin C and antioxidants present in Orange Peel work collectively to provide even-textured skin while acting as natural cleansers.
Honey contains superior antibacterial, probiotic, and healing properties and is extremely nourishing and hydrating.
Directions for use: Apply Himalaya Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask evenly over cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes. Allow the mask to dry for 10-15 minutes. Gently remove the peel from the side of the face. Use once or twice a week, based on skin type. Do not apply on broken or inflamed skin.
A patch test is recommended before using on the face for the first time. Apply the mask in a 2×2 cm area on the inside of the hand below the wrist 24 hours before facial application. Follow the directions for use to ensure skin tolerance.
It comes in a standard Himalaya Herbals white tube packaging with a green flip cap. The smaller 50g tube is very handy and travel friendly.
It has a prominent orange citrusy smell and looks and feels like a gel. Though it is slightly tacky and dries pretty fast, so be quick in application. You need a very thin layer and it glides on the skin easily.
It dries completely in about 10-15 minutes (thin layer 10 minutes, a little thick 15 minutes), and then comes the fun peeling part. Be mindful of the mask completely drying or else it won’t peel off.
Orange peel is full of Vitamin C which not helps in giving healthy, plump skin but also helps in fading scars with time and evening out the skin. Honey is anti-bacterial, so helps against acne and also moisturizes the skin. The peel-off action basically removes all dead skin cells, and hence with gradual use, removes tan.
Also peeling off helps in blood circulation on the face coz of slight stretch and that gives a nice flush/glow on the skin.
Skin feels fresh, glowing but matte, post the mask. It does not crave moisturizer.
I love using peel-off masks and currently enjoying this. It will help in getting rid of tan with regular use i.e. about twice a week. Recommend this 🙂
Have you tried any peel-off masks? Which is your favourite?
Grab these spices from your kitchen to whip skin recipes
By Nidhal
“What goes on your skin, goes in your skin” is the mantra that we Indians swear by when it comes to skin care. Naturally, we believe in ‘feeding’ in our skin. And since nutrition is best derived in its unprocessed, raw and virgin state from nature with minimal processing, it is small wonder that we Indians nourish our skin to the bounties of nuts, fruits, herbs and everything natural!
On that note, let’s give all Non-Indians a sneak-peak into the spices that Indians incorporate into their skin care regimen. Sounds a good idea or should we better keep our treasure trove well-guarded? Let us be benevolent for a moment and spill the beans today.
1. TURMERIC- I am pretty sure there’d be hardly any Indian mother who wouldn’t have prepared/recommended/forcefully slapped a mask predominantly yellow in colour on their kid’s face while the poor child would’ve either succumbed to her persuasion or hid himself/herself to avoid being daubed that weird-looking and (apparently) unpleasant-smelling mask. Ask any Indian mother on the virtues of turmeric and brace yourself for information will flow at a pace that even Google would hide in shame!
Let me summarize why turmeric is our go-to spice. Turmeric helps one bid adieu to skin hazards such as acne, wrinkles, fine-lines and imparts a bright skin tone. Face packs made up of turmeric not only help to clear acne scars and inflammation, but also diminish excessive oil secretion by the sebaceous glands. It should then not come as a surprise that, Hindu weddings have a ceremony devoted to haldi application in order to impart a winsome glow to the bride as well as groom’s face.
A word of caution from my side. Please use either Amba Haldi or kasthoori manjal/haldi only for skin care. They are exclusively meant for skin care. The one in your masala daani is meant for pakoras not packs. Kasthoori haldi/manjal (whatever you prefer to call it) can be easily purchased online. I would recommend Dhathri’s Kasthoori manjal that is, priced at 25 INR for 50 grams.
2. CLOVES- In order to incorporate cloves in one’s beauty regimen, one has to invest in clove oil for that is how its bounties are harnessed. Clove is highly potent for obviating acne and removal of scars left by the same. It is to be applied topically to the affected areas. It is often blended with face packs or massage creams for application on the skin. It gives a tingling sensation when applied. The reason behind this tingling sensation is the potent nature of clove oil.
Skin woes, such as blackheads, whiteheads, scarring, pimples and scaly skin are signs that characterize the skin ailment known as acne. Acne commonly happens during adolescence due to hormonal imbalance. So, if you’re pestered by acne, ditch those over-the- counter medicines and invest in an organic brand of clove oil or you can crush some cloves, add a heaped tbsp. of besan and rose water and voila! Bid adieu to this pesky skin woe!
3. CINNAMON- Next comes the saviour of acne-prone skin. It is tingling but boy, it is effective to the hilt. Cinnamon (Dalchini in Hindi) delivers fantastically when it comes to speeding blood circulation which makes your skin breathe thereby removing acne. This is done by drying the skin and bringing blood and oxygen to the outer skin surface. Thanks to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, cinnamon helps enhance one’s complexion.
However, please always use only a pinch (one-eighth a tbsp.) of cinnamon as a little over that can sting your skin excruciatingly. Personal experience corroborates this. So, do not go overboard 🙂 Just add a pinch of it to all your face masks and you will be good to go.
4. GINGER- Being a potent antiseptic and cleansing agent, ginger helps in keeping the skin clean, smooth and free of blemishes. Besides that, it also invigorates and stimulates one’s skin. It is the best natural acne-fighting weapon as it minimizes the rate of acne formation and eruption by killing and clearing the acne-causing bacteria. Acne-prone ladies, did I see your eyes dilate on discovering the perfect weapon to kick away those acne scars?
The next time you go grocery shopping, you have your reasons to add ginger to your shopping cart, right? Do not just brew it in your tea, let your skin savour its virtues externally too 🙂
5. SAFFRON- Now, comes the spice from the Northern corner of our country which we fondly call ‘Heaven on Earth’- Kashmir. Although this spice is going to be a bit straining for your pockets, yet its beauty benefits will compel you to turn a blind eye to its price at least once. Okay, enough of this ‘Guess my name’ game.
The spice I am talking about is kesar and this is an elixir for our skin. Is there seriously anything that this wonder spice doesn’t do? From imparting an enviable glow to one’s complexion to treating acne, blemishes and blackheads thanks to its anti-fungal content, from softening skin to making it supple, this spice is a must-have (at least 1 gm) in our beauty stashes.
Feel free to add 2-3 strands of it in whichever pack you whip. Let it stay undisturbed for half an hour and once the colour changes to yellow, it is a prefigure to not only slather it on your skin but also that you have bought authentic saffron.
Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum Review
By Archana
Hi all,
If you had read my previous post, you would know that I have recently started with an anti- ageing skin care routine with Biotique products. The set consists of a serum, day cream, night cream and sunscreen lotion. After 3 weeks of using it, am ready with my report and scorecard. Today, I will be reviewing the serum – Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum. Read on to know how well it fares.
Products claims: Dandelion is a rejuvenating herbaceous plant known for its ageless properties. This lightening serum is a rare combination of pure dandelion, rich in Vitamin E and minerals, blended with nutmeg oil. Used regularly, it helps brighten skin, fade dark spots and ease away wrinkles for a flawless complexion.
Directions to use: Massage a few drops into cleansed face and neck, before moisturizer, morning and evening.
Packaging:
The serum comes in a tiny translucent plastic bottle with green screw-on lid. On opening there is a tiny hole for dispensing the product. The bottle is housed inside an outside carton which has all the products details on it. For travel purpose, you can just chuck the carton as it is bulky and take only the compact bottle with you.
Texture and fragrance:
The serum is white in color, water-based and gel like with a smooth consistency. It has a faint herbal smell which is not strong and won’t bother sensitive noses.
My experience:
I have been using the serum for the past three weeks. Arounds 3-4 drops is needed to cover the entire face and neck. Being water based, it is very light and gets absorbed quickly without any greasiness or stickiness. Like all serums, you need to follow up with a moisturizer. For the first week, I didn't observe any major difference. Biotique products are based on ayurvedic formulations which take time and continued usage to show results. I have seen many people skip on Biotique products because the results were not quick enough. But ayurvedic products contain natural ingredients which take time to show effects, but the results are long lasting and harmless in the long run.
After the second week, I could see visible lightening of my skin. My tan was removed and it evened out my skin tone. I had few dark spots and acne scars. I could see them lightening too. But not faded completely. I might need to use another bottle or two for it to completely fade.
The serum also revitalised my skin and it looked plumper and healthy. There was a slight glow on my face. My pores were also more refined as I initially suffered from large pores. It helps to tighten and firm skin.
The bottle has finished in three weeks. Am going to repurchase this again to see continued results. If you ask me, this is one of the most affordable serums in the market. And its also organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free. You just need to be patient with the results.
Pros:
* Light and non-sticky. Gets absorbed easily.
* Suitable for all skin types.
* Lightens and evens out skin tone.
* Works on fading dark spots.
* Revitalizes skin and makes it look plumper and healthy.
* Gives a subtle glow.
* Tightens pores and firms skin.
* Affordable.
* Organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free.
* Compact packaging.
Cons:
* Doesn’t work on wrinkles as claimed. I had a few fine lines on my forehead and they haven’t improved. Maybe continuous usage is required.
Price and quantity: Rs.230 for 40ml.
Rating: 4.8/5
Verdict: Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum is one of the most affordable and effective serums available in the market. Considering the fact that it is made of ayurvedic formulations, is organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free, what more can one ask for. I would definitely recommend this serum for healthy, clear, bright and glowing skin.
Editor’s Note: This sounds really good, I would give it a try sometime.
Have you tried the Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum?
Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser Review
By Pallavi
Hiii Beauties,
As you all might know till now that I am a skin care junkie. I like investing in skin care products. But what you don’t know about me is that I am a bath junkie too. I love bathing and thus investing in bathing products is a must for me. And that is the major reason why I shifted to shower gels and bathing gels years ago. Till date I always buy lots of shower gels. Both from drugstore and high end or luxury brands.
And trust me many of you might think that shower gels are a bit expensive. But no they are not. A bottle of shower gel lasts for at least 2-3 months. And that way you can understand that shower gels lasts quite long and are cost effective??? So, till date I have used a number of shower gels. This time I thought of why not trying with body cleansers and thus here follows the review of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser.
Product Claims: A wonderful shower gel with Pure Essential Oils of Lavender, Patchouli and herbal extracts. Lavender relaxes the body and Patchouli cleanses and purifies. Aloe Vera nourishes and Sugar adds glow to the skin.
Price for Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser: INR 595 for 200ml (Buy HERE)
My Views:
Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser comes in a long, slender plastic bottle which is transparent. You can easily see the amount of product which is left inside. The jar has a cap opening which is quite easy to use. The jar has the packaging quantity, claims, and ingredients written all over it which is quite informative for the customers.
The shower gel is of runny consistency. That is why it tends to spill out from the bottle so you need to take care while storing it. The shower gel is of light green colour and it smells of lavender but the smell is not very strong and disappears as soon as you spread it on your body. When you dispense the shower gel on loofah, you don’t need much water to dilute it and it foams easily on your body. The shower gel is very gentle on the skin.
Also, you require a very little amount per usage. So, a single bottle will last you easily 2-3 months.
Now, let me tell you how I use this body cleanser on my body. I take out a bit of cleanser on your loofah. Wet the loofah before the body cleanser. Now, apply the cleanser all over your body. Rinse it with normal water after some time.
Coming to the after effects of the shower gel, it is not at all drying on skin. Normal to oily skin types will not require a moisturizer after this. Even the dry skinned people can easily skip a body lotion in summers. But for winters dry skin people will need a heavy body lotion post usage of this body cleanser.
For dry skinned people like me this shower gel is a total thumbs up. I love shower gels which are gentle and not drying on skin. So, that I can easily skip my body lotions at least in summers. And this one is perfect for that.
Pros of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser
1. Trustworthy brand
2. Travel friendly size available
3. Easy to use
4. Moisturising on skin
5. Cleanses the body thoroughly
Cons of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser
1. Slightly pricey
Rating: 5/5
Last Thoughts: Every skin type can use it in summers but in winters dry to combination skin types will require body moisturiser.
Editor’s Note: I love lavender and have tried almost all lavender based body wash/cleansers 😀 I am definitely trying this!
Have you tried Kama Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser yet?
I don’t generally go to salons for facials and clean ups, I prefer taking care of my skin at home and follow the basic skin care routine regularly. If you spend even 5-10 minutes on your skin daily and the scrub/mask routine once/twice a week, you won’t need any fancy or expensive salon facials/clean ups.
Now a clean-up is important coz sometimes the blackheads and whiteheads are not really visible but they do develop when the pores are blocked or there is dirt in the pores which is not cleaned regularly.
Here is how I do a mini clean-up at home:
1. Wash your face with a face wash. My Holy Grail is the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem face wash.
2. Cleanse your face with a milk based cleanser. Now there are quite a few options available, you can also try the Himalaya Herbals Refreshing Cleansing Milk. Massage for a minute to two and wipe it off with a damp cotton ball
3. Take steam on the face. If you don’t have a steam machine, just boil some water and bend your face over it covering with a towel. It will do the job equally well.
4. Extract comedones, either use cotton on both of your hands to press the skin and extract it or use a blackhead extractor for deep rooted blackheads. You get it for about 50-60 rupees. Just sanitise and clean it before using and even after using.
6. Toner. You can either use rose water or cucumber water or any alcohol free toner to close the pores. It is very important to close the pores which have opened with the steam.
7. Follow it up with a face pack. Now again I would go with either the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack if I have acne or the Himalaya Herbals Fairness Kesar Face Pack if I want to get rid of tan. Keep it for 10-15 minutes and also use cotton balls soaked in rose water over the eyes and just relax. Take it all off with a damp cotton ball. Wash your face with water if you feel like.
8. Moisturize your face with your regular moisturizer.
9. Apply a sunscreen/sunblock
That’s it, you are done. This whole procedure will take about 30 minutes including the face pack. You can do it once a week on a Saturday or Sunday, you can spend at least 30 minutes in a week over your skin, if not, once in two weeks is a must! Also if you do not do it regularly, the whiteheads and blackheads will not be extracted, the skin won’t be exfoliated. Dead skin cells will form a layer and the blackheads will turn to acne.
Regular skin care is important even if you have good skin, to maintain it. Do not take your skin for granted. Your skin gets regenerated every 21 days, so at least follow this simple clean-up at home once every 2 weeks i.e. 14 days.
Few points to remember:
1. Always use products according to your skin type or how your skin is behaving during that time.
2. Do not be harsh on your skin, do not scrub vigorously or over exfoliate.
3. Always end with a sun block/sunscreen even if you are not stepping out
There are a lot of products available in the market if you do not have extra time to DIY at home. I like Himalaya Herbals products and have been using them since my college days. They are affordable and easily available.
You can check out Himalaya Herbals on Facebook HERE and on twitter HERE and also more from their Face Care Range HERE
