Category Archives: Tips and Tricks

4 Simple Tricks to Maintaining a Fresh Look This Summer,Indian Beauty Blog

4 Simple Tricks to Maintaining a Fresh Look This Summer

4 Simple Tricks to Maintaining a Fresh Look This Summer

Summer is just around the corner, which means high temperatures, rising humidity and excessive sweating will soon be here as well. While looking put together for work and social events can feel like a challenge when the thermometer starts to spike, hiding indoors is no way to spend your time. Just because its summer doesn’t mean you need to give up on your makeup routine. Here are 4 simple tricks to keep you looking fresh all summer long without forgoing your favorite beauty products.

1) Make your beauty products work overtime

Avoid piling on too many layers at once by looking for products that can pull double duty. A large variety of items that combine functions, such as moisturizer or toner that contains sunscreen or lip balm with added SPF can be found in beauty products from Nykaa. This will not only save you time in your morning routine, but will make packing your cosmetics bag for your next beach trip or weekend getaway that much easier.

Finding products that offer sheer coverage with less layers will help you avoid the clogged pores that occur when excess makeup meets excess sweat. A natural, subtle glow is popular in the summer so achieving a look that doesn’t feature overdone makeup will keep you on trend as well. Waterproof mascara and eyeliner will come in handy if you’re sweating or will be in the water. It’s a simple way to give yourself a finished look without worrying about embarrassing smudges.

2) Hydrate inside and out

Walking into a room with the air conditioning blasting can feel heaven sent on hot summer days, but constant exposure to the dry air it produces can dehydrate your skin. Remember to replenish by drinking plenty of water and applying moisturizer daily. Look for fast absorbing, light weight formulas that won’t leave you feeling sticky or greasy. Even if you spent the day outside sweating, the sun beating down on you could still be drying out your skin leading to small abrasions and cracks. Summer humidity can cause the grit and grime of the city to absorb into your skin, which can strip it of its natural defenses. Drinking water can act as an organic cleanser,helping to rid your body of skin damaging toxins caused by the elements. According to Women’s Health Magazine, celebrities swear drinking plenty of water every day is the secret to ageless skin and dermatologists encourage it as well. To motivate yourself to drink more water, try infusing it with fresh produce such as strawberries or lemons.

3) Start the day right

Get in the habit of applying sunscreen each day. Protecting yourself from sun damage and burns is one of the best ways to maintain healthy, radiant skin, helping you to look gorgeous with or without makeup. ABC News reports that more than a third of adults do not use sunscreen. Given how much is known about the pitfalls of too much UVA exposure, there’s no excuse to be skipping sunscreen. Not only is a burn painful and unattractive, leading to wrinkles, splotches and discoloration, it’s also has a direct link to some forms of cancer, making it dangerous. If you can prevent such severe damage now, you’ll thank yourself later! As an added bonus, sunscreen can be substituted as a primer and will hold makeup in place so there is no excuse to skip it.

4) Damage control

If you did get caught without sunscreen and end up with skin damage there are tricks you can try to minimize the pain and appearance of a bad burn. Prevention Magazine notes there are even quite a few items you’ll find in your own kitchen, such as aloe vera, soy, yogurt and oatmeal. These items can be applied directly to the affected area to soothe the skin and help it repair. If you’re not interested in whipping up a home remedy, look for products from the store with these ingredients. It’s important to avoid anything that contains petroleum as this can trap the heat in your skin and add to your discomfort. While the area is healing, take extra care to protect yourself with sunscreen, clothing and a hat to avoid further damage. With these tips you won’t have to dread the summer weather. You can still maintain a flawless look in the blazing heat. There’s no need to ditch your makeup habit all together, simply look for products that allow you to do more with less to avoid caking and remember to follow preventative measures by moisturizing and applying sunscreen each day. You can treat any burns you do get with home remedies or store bought products. Don’t let the heat wreak havoc on your beauty routine.

P.S: Licensed Images from Shutterstock

5 Fashionable Skirts Spotted Recently

5 Fashionable Skirts Spotted Recently

Hi guys,

Come summers, we stay far far away from denims and love our skirts and shorts. Well, I love more flirty,feminine kind of style, so I am totally a ‘skirt’ person.

I love all kinds of skirts: midi,flared,pencil,floral,lace,tulle. You name it and I have it 😀 But not that I don’t love shorts. When I am travelling or at a beach, I am all the time in my shorts. White shorts and lace shorts have to be my favourites! I love skorts too i.e. skirts + shorts. But if I have to select one, I will go with skirts 🙂

Here are some of my favourite skirts I spotted in the recent past and I absolutely loved..

1. Flared Skirt

Jessica Alba in this faux leather flared midi skirt looks smashing. She perfectly paired it with a geometric pattern printed crop top, black cross body (which she is using as an envelope clutch) and black ankle strap heels.

2. Midi Skirt

Blake Lively wore this beautiful flared white midi skirt with daisy applique and she looked oh so fab. She paired it with a simple tee, her vintage coatigan and added a pop of colour with a turquoise blue beaded statement necklace. The Barbie pink Louboutins completed the look. Only has some nice flared midi skirts.

3. Printed Skirts

Printed midi skirts are all the rage. Check out my printed midi skirt OOTD HERE. Parineeti Chopra wore this gorgeous red paint splatter skirt with a black Zara crop top and finished with a beautiful statement necklace and Jimmy Choos. Fab Alley has some beautiful printed skirts.

4. Pencil skirts

Alia Bhatt turned heads with the neon yellow crop top and black faux leather pencil skirt. The black and white striped heels, hand harness and the funky clutch went well with her outfit. Pencil skirts work with so many different tops and tees, be it printed, solid colour, faux leather. You definitely need 1-2 pencil skirts in your closet. Check out  The Vanca for perfectly fitting pencil skirts.

5. Tulle Skirt

And last but not the last, tulle/mesh/net/tutu skirts are also doing the rounds in the fashion circle. I have a black tulle skirt which I had done an outfit post with,some time back. I have another beige shorter mesh skirt. I absolutely love how this black tulle skirt is paired with a black and white top, and accessorized well with ankle strap black and white heels and a clutch, sunglasses and some bangles. The whole look has been kept monochrome which works well and complements the outfit.

Also, check out this video for some shorts and skirts ideas..

Are you a ‘shorts’ person or a ‘skirts’ person? What do you prefer and why? Also let me know your favourite skirt from the ones shared above, in the comments 🙂

Image Source: 1,2,3,4,5

Gillette Venus Event and #SubscribeToSmooth Challenge

Gillette Venus Event and #SubscribeToSmooth Challenge

Hi Guys,

So you must have seen my pics from the Gillette Venus Event that happened last week, if you follow me on twitter or Instagram 🙂 It happened at the Zenith Party Suite at Palladium Hotel.

The theme was nautical and hence, everyone was either in blue or in stripes 😀 We clicked the pics with the sailor hat and Gillette Venus razor board props. Here is my pic from the event..

I went print on print..with polka dots on stripes 🙂

A panel comprising of dermatologist Dr. Rashmi Shetty, amazing makeup artist Namrata Soni and the ‘Heropanti’ actress Kriti Sanon talked about shaving and busted some myths.

Surprisingly both Namrata Soni and Kriti Sanon have been shaving from around 10 years and more. Namrata Soni talked about how being a makeup artist, they have to work with different people and sometimes also take care of these issues like hair removal coz a particular scene requires it, etc., so she always carries a Gillette Venus razor with her. She has sensitive skin and was not supposed to wax as she used to get rashes and hence, she has been shaving since the past 10-12 years.

Kriti Sanon said she also always got those red patches and burns from waxing and prefers shaving anytime. In fact, she mentioned she is so used to it, that she shaves every 2-3 days and carries a razor all the time, as she needs hair free skin for shoots,etc. She also mentioned how Gillette Venus goes quite smooth on the skin and the contours coz of the pivoting head, she does not have to press the razor hard which irritates the skin.

Dr. Rashmi Shetty busted some myths and talked about the right procedure and method to shave and the pre and post care for perfect shaving. She also said how majority women feel her skin would darken and the hair would grow thicker and faster forever after shaving, which is not true and holds no base. She explained how we nip the edge of the hair while shaving and it is not uprooted, the initial hair that grows back in 3-4 days is the one just below the skin, which is a bit darker coz of the melanin and hence we feel the hair is thicker.

Also, a lot of women including me, face itching issue post shaving, to which she shared the perfect way of shaving. According to Dr.Rashmi Shetty, one should not shave on dry skin. Moisturise your skin well, then have a bath and always go for wet shaving preferably. Then post shaving, apply a rich cream/body lotion (one with Retinol, if possible) which will soothe and calm the skin. And keep re-applying for 2-3 days and not just once.

Namrata Soni shared her favourite tip on shaving, she uses a hair conditioner to shave and uses a Calamine lotion post shaving and never faced any itching issue.

I am going to try both of the tips soon 😀

Coming to the Gillette Venus #SubscribeToSmooth Challenge Week 1. I have always been a waxing person, but since the past quite a few months, I have tried shaving and have loved the results as I did not have to rush to a salon, even when I am pressed for time.

During my honeymoon,I had carried my Gillette Venus razor with me and it was so helpful as were at Andamans, and you cannot not wear short clothes at a beach,right 😀 Also recently when I met with an accident and was on bed rest, I could not go to a salon, and I shaved 2-3 times with my trusted Gillette Venus. Read my review HERE.

I have taken up this 30 days challenge and have already shaved my legs once, as I had to for a particular event and had no time for a salon visit. This time, I also used the Gillette Satin Care Shave Gel and it was all the more easier!

I will bust some myths and share my personal experience in the coming month with you guys 🙂

Meanwhile, check out their facebook app to know more about shaving or follow them on twitter. You can buy the Gillette Venus Razor HERE, the set of cartridges HERE or the combo pack of all with the Satin Care Gel HERE

Flat Shoe Trends 2015

Flat Shoe Trends 2015

From Bottega Veneta to Michael Kors to Marc Jacobs, this year was all about flats at the runaway. Since now I am supposed to wear only flats for another 2-3 months, I am all for stylish flats 😀 If we have to do it, why not do it in style. Right?

Some flat shoes in trend currently are:

1. Ballerinas

Ballerinas or Bellies as we call it, is the oldest and the most common flat shoe trend. I guess its been there since forever and will continue to be so. There are so many different designs,colors and textures possible in ballets from glitter to prints to bright colors to bows. Even studded and spiked ones look cool, studded flats work with almost all of your outfits. They are casual,comfortable and yet look chic. Currently, we have those cute cat and dog design on right and left foot going on. Or the famous Chiara Ferragni glitter winked eye.

Chiara Ferragni

2. Flat Sandals

All your T-Strap sandals or strappy gladiators fall here. Casual and comfortable for daily wear and they look stylish at the same time.

3. Birkenstock

Birkenstock

Birkenstock is a German brand that makes one particular type of sandals that have contoured cork and rubber footbeds and conform to the shape of the wearer’s feet. These are not the most good looking sandals, also called the ‘ugly sandals’ like they call the Crocs 😀 But are very comfortable and the white Birkenstocks are all the rage.

4. Brogues

Clarks

Brogues work with your casual wear from denims to dresses to skirts and even your formal wear. Brogues were seen a lot this time, at the Lakme Fashion Week, one reason being they are stylish yet comfortable. When you can’t be in heels whole day, brogues are a perfect replacement.

5. Sliders

Bottega Veneta

Pool sliders or even casual sliders are quite IN right now. We saw these metallic sliders by Bottega Veneta on the runaway recently.

6. Slip Ons/Sneakers

The super comfortable slip ons or sneakers are your best bet. Every girl should atleast one. All your Vans,Converse fall here. For that matter, even Bata makes very good slip ons/sneakers. You do find a gem there at times 😀 Metallic, glitter and ombre are must haves!

What flat shoe trends do you like? Your favourite trend?

P.S: Images from Google.

Shampoo for Different Kinds of Hair

Shampoo for Different Kinds of Hair

This is the common type of question people ask when it comes to hair care, which shampoo and conditioner would suit my hair. Now there are different kinds of hair, some are oily,some dry, curly,wavy,straight.frizzy,etc

Now what kind of shampoo would suit which hair type..let’s get on to this..

1. Dry hair

Your hair needs moisture and at the same time if you are washing your hair daily,it is getting ripped off the moisture. So you need a shampoo that is creamy and moisturising and yet gentle enough for everyday use. Also dry hair is more susceptible to hairfall and breakage since they are more brittle. A good,rich conditioner is also required for dry hair. I absolutely love the L’Oreal Professionnel Absolute Repair Lipidium Shampoo and Mask. Or the Schwarzkopf Professional BC Repair Rescue Range. You can also follow with a good hair serum for the ends. Look for ingredients with naturals oils,shea butter,etc in the shampoos and conditioners. Oil based shampoos like L’Oreal Paris 6 Oil Nourish also work for dry hair. Oil your hair once a week for an hour before shampooing.

2. Oily hair

This type of hair is more sticky and limp due to excessive sebum production, Make sure you do not massage your scalp a lot,leading to stimulation of the glands and also wash hair with warm water and not hot. A gentle, clear gel based shampoo works for your hair type,something like Biotique Bio Green Apple Fresh Daily Purifying Shampoo or Omved Brahmi & Peppermint Shampoo. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week. Look out for ingredients like Panthenol and Wheat Protein in the shampoo. Also use the conditioner only towards the ends.

3. Coloured/Straightened Hair

Since the hair has gone through chemical treatments, it is best to use a SLS free shampoo so as to let the effect stay longer. The Body Shop Rainforest Range is SLS free and all natural. There are also a few natural brands like Omved and SoulTree which have SLS free shampoos.

4. Curly hair

Curly hair needs a right shampoo to maintain its curls and texture. You do not want straighter looking hair which actually leads to neither straight nor curls kind of hair. To maintain the natural form of the curls, a separate shampoo for curly hair is needed. I would recommend Curly Twirls, Kerastase Nutritive Bain OleoCurl Curl Definition Shampoo or TIGI Catwalk Curls Rock Shampoo.

If you have frizzy hair, a shampoo recommended for dry skin above would work. A good serum will help control frizz and also avoiding heating tools as much as possible, would keep frizz under control.

What kind of hair do you have? And what shampoo do you use?

P.S: Image from Google

Lakme School of Style by Fame

Lakme School of Style by Fame

Fame had started with Lakme School of Style in October 2014, India’s first fashion video magazine. Lakmé School of Style is a first of its kind show that will not only bring the newest trends and happenings from the fashion world but in the process will also create new age fashionistas and idols. A fashion brigade led by Editor-in-Chief, Karan Johar himself will bring the fashion news, views and events from all over the world to the internet screen.

It has been quite a hit since the time it launched. And Karan Johar has himself selected a few bloggers to be a part of his Fashion Brigade. Nilu, Riaan, Sukhneet, Sahibba and Sanjana to name a few.

One of my favourite videos from Lakme School of Style is ‘How To Incorporate Last Year’s Summer Trends In Your 2015 Wardobe’ where Nilu Thapa talks about styling your old 2014 Spring-Summer collections and give them an all new fashionable look this year. You are simply gonna love her ideas!

1. Black and White/Monochrome

While last year she paired her white shirts with skinny denims folded at the bottom, this year she intends to wear them with pencil skirts and high slit skirts

2. Midi skirts

Last year, Nilu wore midi skirts extensively and with structured tops mostly. This time, she would be wearing midi skirts again but with shirts and spaghetti tops and toning down the accessories.

3. Jumpsuits

Last year she wore jumpsuits with chunky neckpieces and this year she pairs them with blazers and kimonos

4. Peasant tops

Nilu wore peasant tops with faded denims and ankle boots last year, this time she will pair them with denim shorts

5. Chiffon Dress

Chiffon dresses are always in style and last year they were the trend was pairing them with chunky neckpieces and satchels. This year around, being low on accessories and just a mini cross body sling is perfect.

I think its a perfect list, and these things are definitely still in trend, so just mix and match and you have your spring summer 2015 wardrobe ready!

Every month #LakmeSchoolOfStyle comes up with a theme and uploads videos related to it..this month the theme is ‘Wedding’, so yes you would see Sabyasachi and all the jazz 🙂 Stay glued and subscribe to LakmeSchoolOfStyle HERE to stay updated with their videos.

Have you checked out Fame’s Lakme School of Style yet? Which video is your favourite?

Summer Sunglasses Trends 2015

Summer Sunglasses Trends 2015

Come summers, sunglasses become an essential. It is very important to protect our eyes and the skin around from the sun’s harsh rays. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest in our body, so proper protection and care for the eyes are a MUST. While these days, there are so many different styles and designs doing the rounds, you can choose what suits your fancy.

Some trends still continue from 2014, while some styles are new additions in 2015. Lets see some sunglasses trends in 2015.

2014 was all high on cat eye, animal print and geeky glasses. Some trends we see right now and would see more of, in 2015 are:

1. Mirror glasses

Be it round frames,aviators or wayfarers, its all about mirror glasses and high reflecting mirror in blue,green,gray that is 😀 Its all about eye catching statement you see

2. Round frames

Yes, those Gandhi/John Lennon frames are all IN. From geeky to mirrored to the fancy designs, anything in round frames is trendy. and round + mirror is the bomb!

3. Soft Cat Eye

Cat eye glasses are still trendy this season but not the elongated cat eye as before, a soft,slight cat eye.

4. Elegant Details

Gold mesh detailing,swarovski, gold studs, etc,.are all the elegant details added by the designers to vary the look of the glasses.

5. Retro

Thicker rims and metal frames give the glasses a retro look which is also quite trendy nowadays.

6. Wooden and Denim frames

The latest trend just IN is wooden and denim frames..I think they look pretty cool. From light to dark and round to square, all kinds of wooden frames. And so in denim too. Check out this round denim frames, how amazing do they look!

If you don’t like to experiment much, stick to aviators and wayfarers according to your face shape. Check out some elite sunglasses easily available online these days and make a fashion statement this summers!

What is your favourite summer sunglasses trend?

P.S: Images from Google

Learn about the Causes of Hair Fall and its Effective Treatments

Learn about the Causes of Hair Fall and its Effective Treatments

Guest Post

Find out all about hair fall treatments and the safe remedies that can be easily followed at home. Pay attention to your hair by eating right and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Nothing can be more attractive than a head with thick hair that shines with health. A bald patch on the scalp or thinning hair can be an embarrassing situation among peers. Every person has about 100,000 strands of hair on their scalp, and it is proven that losing 50 to 100 strands a day is normal. It is time to pay attention and follow some hair loss remedies when you start experiencing severe signs. There can be several causes of hair fall, and it is crucial to take the necessary treatment. Some of the most common factors for this condition are hormonal changes, junk food with no nutritional value, unhealthy lifestyle, stress, medications, vitamin deficiency, thyroid disorder, and menopause. Other reasons such as environmental effects, excessive smoking, scalp infections, genetic factors and chemical products also add to the severity.

Nutrients for maintaining good hair

A strong immune system plays a vital role for having good hair. If you fail to provide the right nutrition to your hair, they will eventually fall. Start eating properly and include the following products in your diet for hair fall prevention:

  • Omega- 3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega- 3 fatty acids provide nourishment to the follicles, thus acting as one of the best hair loss remedies. You can have flaxseeds, walnuts, salmon, sardines, and soybeans.
  • Zinc: If you have a deficiency of zinc, then it could be one of the major causes of hair loss. Zinc helps to build proteins and boost tissue growth and repair. It also controls hormones and can lead to hair loss. Zinc-rich foods include seafoods like oysters and crab, lean beef, wheat germ, spinach, pumpkin, nuts, pork, and chicken. These foods are effective for hair fall treatment.
  • Protein: Our hair is made up of protein, and its deficiency can lead to bad hair. It can also be the cause for graying of hair. You can consume milk, cheese, yogurt, lentils, salmon, poultry, eggs, beans, soy and lean beef for getting maximum protein benefits.
  •  Iron: Iron carries oxygen within your body. Its deficiency can lead to less oxygen in the head and ultimately poor blood circulation. Protein-rich foods include egg yolks, red meat, dry fruits like raisins and prunes, leafy vegetables, turkey, beans, and chickpeas. Seafood lovers can consume oysters, clams, and scallops.
  • Vitamins A and C: These nutrients produce sebum, which is the oily substance secreted by our hair follicles. It prevents hair from breaking off and improves iron absorption. However, keep in mind that this vitamin needs to be consumed in moderation. Eat sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, Swiss chard, winter squash and lettuce for vitamin A. Fruits such as papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, pineapples, oranges, and kiwi are rich in vitamin C.

Home remedies for hair loss

  • Oil massage: An oil massage can improve the blood flow to the hair follicles, strengthen the hair roots and condition the scalp. It relaxes the scalp and reduces the feeling of stress. You can use hair oils like coconut or almond oil, olive oil, amla oil and castor oil. You can add a few drops of rosemary oil to the base oils for powerful hair fall prevention.
  • Fenugreek paste: Fenugreek, also called methi, is an extremely beneficial hair loss remedy. Its seeds have hormone antecedents that improve the hair growth and rebuild follicles. They are a powerful source of nicotinic acid and proteins that stimulate hair growth. Apply its paste to your hair for about 40 minutes and follow this routine once in a month.
  • Aloe Vera juice: Aloe Vera contains enzymes that encourage hair growth. Its alkaline properties bring the hair’s pH to an optimum level. You can also consume one-tablespoon aloe vera juice on an empty stomach for promoting hair growth.
  •  Indian Gooseberry or Amla juice : Amla is a rich source of vitamin C and iron. Its antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties maintain a healthy scalp.

Taking care of your hair

  • Avoid brushing your hair vigorously
  • Do not shampoo too frequently if you have dry hair
  • Limit the use of styling tools such as blow dryers, curling irons and straightening irons
  • Reduce the use of harsh chemical treatments
  • Use a thick comb with wide teeth to prevent hair fall
  • Avoid hairstyles such as tight ponytails or buns that pull your hair and cause breakage.

Stress management

Stress could be the main reason for hair loss. Managing stress levels is the perfect way to deal with hair loss.

  • Meditation: Everyone can practice meditation and focus on the breathing process. It promotes emotional and physical well-being along with your hair’s good health.
  • Exercise: Exercising makes the mind stress-free. You can include walking, yoga, swimming, aerobics or workouts in your daily routine.

Once you understand the causes of hair fall, you can seek an appropriate Hair fall treatment. If you are tired of suffering all this while, you can try out the above-mentioned home remedies to prevent hair fall. A few alterations in your lifestyle, good diet and exercise can help you tackle with hair fall to a great extent.

P.S: Images from Google.

Dr. Jamuna Pai of Blush Clinics shares essential tips and quick fixes

DR. JAMUNA PAI OF BLUSH CLINICS SHARES ESSENTIAL TIPS AND QUICK FIXES TO GET A RADIANT GLOW FOR THE PARTY SEASON

P.S: I don’t generally publish press releases unless I feel it is helpful and informative. This I felt was. 2-3 tips is what I myself loved and surely going to try out. Hope it helps some of you.

Skincare and grooming expert, cosmetic physician, Dr. Jamuna Pai of Blush Clinics is sharing essential tips and quick fixes to get a radiant glow for the winter party season.

Providing state of the art facilities for the first time in India to its clients, Blush Clinics by Dr. Jamuna Pai became an instant success right since its inception. The pioneering spirit in educating the layman about the various services and technology that cater to skincare has been their claim to fame.

Try these quick fix tips shared by the expert to avoid some minor beauty mishaps, from ruining the party fun.

HOME REMEDIES:

1) Dark circles: To conceal the dark circles quickly make a paste of 1 tsp milk powder, 1⁄2 tsp curd, 2 drops of lemon juice and 2 drops of honey. Apply the paste on the dark circles. Wait for 10- 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water.

2) Puffiness around the eyes : The major reasons for puffiness around the eyes are fluid retention, inadequate sleep, allergies and of course heredity. But it can be reduced considerably. As a quick fix for it wrap an ice cube in a soft cloth and apply to the under eye area for 5 minutes to reduce the swelling. You will see an immediate improvement. The other things that help in reducing the swelling are chilled gel masks, cucumber slices and cool damp cloth.

3) Dry lips: Put a thin film of moisturizer before applying the gloss. And apply a thick coat of gloss to hide the chapped lips.

4) Frizzy hair: Before washing your hair apply coconut milk, made from fresh grated coconut and leave it on your hair for 2 hours. This acts as a conditioner. Oiling the hair often also helps in making the hair less frizzy. Use anti- frizz serum on the hair just before you leave home.

5) Open pores or to tighten the skin: Use 2 egg whites. Whisk them till you get peaks. Add 2 drops of honey to this and spread over face and neck. Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash it off.

6) Ageing hands: Remember to use a thin film of a foundation or concealer on the hands after doing your face. Hands always give the age.

7) Dry skin on the hands, around the nail cuticles and feet: Dry skin is a condition where skin loses its oiliness and it can be because of soaps, weather , heredity etc. It is very important to take care of the dryness because it can turn into deep cuts and hurt especially on the heels. The quick fix that you can try is mixing some milk cream with honey and massage for 20 minutes on all the dry areas. And after massaging wash it off with a mild soap.

MEDICAL QUICK FIXES:

Before we begin, do remember to only visit a trained and experienced doctor. It is of utmost importance that the medical practioner that you choose be well trained and adept in his/her field of work.

1) Acne scars: Under the advice of a doctor a mild microdermabrasion (skin polishing) or a very mild lactic acid peel done just once can lighten the marks. The marks can then be concealed with a concealer. Always use a concealer which is water resistant.

2) Brittle nails: If you have brittle or short nails you can experiment with acrylic nails or gel nails.

3) Fillers: A little dermal ( skin) filler in the laugh lines and the droop of the mouth will freshen it immediately giving you a much younger look.

4) Botox: Again by a trained doctor, does wonders in eliminating lines and freshening your looks.

5) Skin Boosters: Skin boosters like Restylane Vital work wonders in nourishing and hydrating tired, parched skin from within. It also minimizes the effects of photo damage. It is a clear gel that is injected just under the skin in small quantities to help it regain any lost volume, moisture and structure.

6) Skin tightening: Treatments like thermage ( heat being used to repair collagen and promote its growth). Non- surgical facelifts also show instant results.

7) Peels : Certain non- peeling peels like lactic acid peel give a fresh look in no time and as they are non-peeling they do not require any downtime either.

8) Microdermabrasion ( skin polishing) : Helps in removing dead skin cells and minimizing pore size.

9) In case of a sudden break out of small pimples or rash post a treatment or waxing– Don’t panic. Use a soothing lotion like calamine. If the rash has no pus, use desonide lotion on it just for one night. Take an allergy tablet like Allegra once a day. If there is pus in the pimple, use a dot of ‘multani mitti’ (fuller’s earth) on it overnight.

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 ?