Category Archives: Tips

How to Make your Hair Stronger & Thicker Naturally

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How to Make your Hair Stronger & Thicker Naturally

Do you want a stronger, thicker mane? Well, who doesn’t. One of the main causes for weak hair is thinning, which makes it more prone to hair fall, and inversely overall thinner density and fine hair. Many of you have always asked for my hair care routine, now I don’t follow particular brands all the time, but these tips are something I follow in general always.

Hair Concerns, Causes & Cures, Indian Beauty Blog, Hair Care
This is my natural hair which is curled..no extensions
Straight Hair

Read on to know how you can get stronger & thicker hair naturally.

1. Washing hair on alternate days

If you are washing hair every day, then you are washing off the natural oils from the scalp, which keep the scalp healthy. On the contrary, if you are washing it just once a week, you are letting dirt and dandruff settle on your scalp making it more prone to hair fall. The frequency of washing hair should be moderate, preferably once every two-three days.

2. Never brush wet hair

Never ever do that. This is a strict NO-NO. Wet hair is prone to breakage. It may come off from the roots or even split in parts. Invest in a wide tooth comb, preferably made of wood, to comb through wet hair with a very gentle hand. Take a firm grip of your hair in small bunches, while combing through the roots, so that the roots are not succumbed to unnecessary pulls.

3. Well Balanced Diet

Your hair may be thin because the roots are unable to get the nutrients it needs, from your diet. Proteins and Vitamins are an absolute necessity for your hair. Include fish, daal, pulses, and soybeans (for proteins) And nuts, fruits and veggies (for Vitamin B, Biotin and Omega 3 Fatty Acids). Flax seeds, Avocado deserve special mention as a rich source of Vitamins. Also, Vitamin C helps promote hair growth, so a lot of citrus based fruits and Amla must also be included. As a last resort, you can also take supplements which usually contain biotin, fish oil, protein, multi-vitamins, etc. Also, drink lots of water as mentioned always.

4. Massage your scalp

Massage your scalp daily with your fingertips with a gentle hand for better blood circulation of the head and scalp. You can also go for an overnight oil treatment or a one hour massage just before you shampoo, with warm coconut or olive oil or a mix of both. I also add Evian Vitamin E capsule oil at times.

5. Avoid hot tools

Use hot tools only during special occasions (read once in a blue moon). Avoid it as much as you can. Air dry your hair instead of a blow dryer and use frizz-fighting products. If you still have to use hot tools, always use a heat protectant.

6. Protect your hair

Protect your hair from direct sunlight by using hats, scarves, etc. Go for regular trimming to get rid of split ends and breakage.

7. Do not color your hair

I know if someone has grey hair and wants to cover that, coloring is necessary but if want to color your hair just for the fun of it, you are going to damage your hair, especially if you go for lighter colors like a blonde which requires bleaching of the hair. It thins your hair to 1/4th of the original size! I have pictures and would find them and add them maybe. I had just gone for highlights on a few strands a year ago and that too a darker color but I literally saw the size difference in the colored strand of hair and my normal strand of hair! I am never coloring my hair again, unless I have way too many greys. Also would prefer using something natural first like henna or sesame oil if that can help. But of course if you want to color anyway, always take good care of your hair by regular oiling, deep conditioning, etc. coz color does thin and dry out your hair!

All the above tips when followed religiously would help reduce hair loss and promote new hair growth which will help your hair become stronger and thicker.

I follow all of these and try to follow the diet one as much as a I can. I rarely use a blow dryer or straighter, I prefer natural, air dried hair and let my hair be. I always use a conditioner post shampoo and also a leave-in serum or cream, I like MoroccanOil and Kerastase for that.

Read another similar hair concerns post HERE and more hair care posts HERE.

I have gone shorter this year coz I wanted a change but I am sure my hair will grow back again quickly 🙂

Do you follow these tips? What do you do for stronger, thicker hair?

Acne Scars – Causes, Prevention Measures and Home Remedies

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

Acne Scars – Causes, Prevention Measures and Home Remedies

By Archana

Hi all,

After many product reviews, I am back with an informative post today. Acne is one common skin condition that many people suffer from. Though it mostly occurs in teenagers, many adults too face it. In today’s post, I will explain the common causes for acne, prevention measures and some home remedies to cure acne scars.

What causes acne?

The four main reasons for acne are:

* Excessive oil production
* Dead skin cells
* Clogged pores
* Bacteria

When our body secretes excess sebum/oil, they build up in the hair follicles and form a soft plug, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive in. This bacterial infection causes inflammation eventually leading to pimples. Whiteheads and blackheads too are actually clogged pores with bacteria and oil.

Some factors like hormonal imbalance, certain foods, stress, etc can trigger or aggravate the acne conditions.

How to prevent the occurrence of acne?

It’s always better to prevent the occurrence of acne in the first place with some good skin care routine.

* Keep your face clean by washing your face atleast twice a day to remove impurities, dead skin cells and extra oil.
* Use a separate towel for your face.
* Change your pillow covers and bedsheets weekly.
* Avoid or limit the intake of deep-fried foods, dairy products, sugar, salty snacks and junk food.
* Avoid using oils, gels and fragrances on your hair.
* Wash your hair often as oily hair can add to the oil on your face.

Home remedies for acne scars:

When a pimple occurs, it can leave behind marks and scars. Though there are many pigmentation creams and anti-acne gels available in the market, home remedies are always more effective and with no side effects. Only thing, they need to be followed diligently for atleast two weeks to see improvement. Here is a list of easy remedies at home to cure acne scars:

Lemon mask for acne scars:

* Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
* Honey – 1tbsp
* Milk – 2 tbsp
* Rose water – 1 tbsp

Mix all the above together and using a cotton wool apply on the acne scars. Leave on for 15 minutes and wash off. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent which helps lighten the scars. The rose water helps to soothe the tingling sensation caused due to lemon.

Aloe vera gel for acne scars:

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the plant and apply on face. You can leave it overnight. Do it regularly for two weeks for the acne scars to fade. Aloe vera not only soothes inflammation but also helps in regenerating damaged tissues and speeds up the healing process.

Cucumber and gram flour face pack for acne scars:

* Half a cucumber
* Gram flour – 2 tbsp
* Turmeric powder – 1 tbsp

Blend the cucumber into a smooth paste. Add the gram flour and turmeric powder and apply as a face pack. Leave for 20-25 minutes and then wash off. This treatment is good for sensitive skin also to get rid of acne scars.

Potato and tomato mask for acne scars:

* Half a potato
* Half a tomato
* Honey – 1 tbsp

Grate the potato and extract the juice from it. Blend the tomato into a fine paste. Add the potato juice and a teaspoon of honey. Apply this mix all over your face and wash off after 15 minutes. Tomatoes contain the enzyme lycopene which help to lighten pimple marks. Potatoes also have skin lightening and bleaching properties.

Cinnamon and honey mask for acne scars:

Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to one teaspoon of honey and apply on your acne scars. Leave it for an hour and then wash off. This mixture has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which is effective in treating the acne.

Tea tree oil for acne scars:

This is a proven remedy for reducing acne scars. Tea tree oil is an excellent antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral essential oil. Just dilute some tea tree essential oil in water and apply this solution on your acne scars everyday. Leave it overnight. Follow it regularly to see visible reduction in scars and blemishes.

Apple cider vinegar for acne scars:

ACV is a natural astringent and balances the pH level of your skin. It is effective in the treatment of acne too. Mix 1 part of apple cider vinegar with 1 part of water and 1 teaspoon of honey. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply on scars. Leave it for 15 minutes and wash off. Do this once daily.

Sandalwood and orange face pack for acne scars:

* Sandalwood powder – 2 tbsp
* Orange peel powder – 2 tbsp
* Rose water – 2 tbsp

Mix all the above into a fine paste and apply as a face pack. Leave it for 30 minutes and wash off. According to Ayurveda, sandalwood is a effective soothing and cooling agent to treat skin inflammations. Orange peel powder helps to lighten the marks.

So these are some of the home remedies you can follow to cure acne scars, pimple marks and blemishes.

Editor’s Note: This was a really well written post Archana and the remedies are fab. I think I always stick to Aloe Vera Gel and the fuller’s earth, sandalwood mix. I will surely try the other home remedies mentioned by you.

Which ones have you tried? Share your experiences below.

P.S: Pics from Google

Decoding Makeup Hacks Of Kylie Jenner to Get the No-Filter Look

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Decoding Makeup Hacks Of Kylie Jenner to Get the No-Filter Look

By Sanchita

The beauty world has been blown away with the makeup looks of Kylie Jenner. Kylie is a sensation in the makeup world, from the pretty eye lashes to the sensuous pout – we adore her makeup techniques like anything. The Time Magazine has names her one of the “30 Most Influential Teens of 2015” and we know why! She has every flair to make any nude makeup look glamorous. We couldn’t be pleased when she revealed her makeup secrets and launched her own app named “Kylie” where she shares her life, makeup tutorials, etc. and revealing her endless passion for beauty and makeup. Very recently when she shared her makeup tutorial and the various tips and tricks, I was amazed how easy and fabulous they were! No wonder her skin looks flawless and refined in every flash photograph, photoshoot or even a simple selfie. I tried most of the tips and tricks she shared and I thought of penning down for my readers as well. Scroll down to know how Kylie does her makeup to look that extraordinary!

New Way to Apply Moisturizer

How do you use a moisturizer before makeup? Applying it with fingers and blending onto the skin, right? No! Kylie does it the other way. She applies the moisturizer with a brush (preferably, a duo fiber or stippling one) and blends in. she doesn’t let a single patch of area, no matter how small or insignificant, gets away without moisturizer. In this way, you can ensure that the skin is thoroughly moisturized and there is no room for dry patches when we would apply the foundation. It is also easier to blend and set well on skin.

Eye Makeup before Base

Okay, so we have been doing this all wrong. Every time I try to get all decked up, I finish off the base and move to eye makeup. Well, Kylie and her makeup artist explains why the eye makeup has to be done first. This is because there is a lot of things that can go wrong while doing eye makeup. For example, fall out issues, too much product on the lower lash line, smeared gel liner, mascara smudging, etc. hence, when the eye makeup is done, we can easily move forward with the base, concealing or correcting anything that went wrong. Also, never apply foundation underneath the eye area. It is sensitive to creasing and when loaded with corrector, concealer, foundation and powder, it is more likely to crease. Simply use a concealer (or corrector, if need be) and set with a translucent powder or bake.

Eye Cream is a Must

Although she is extremely young and has very nice eye skin underneath, she swears by using an eye cream to hydrate the area. She has stated in numerous videos, write-ups and interviews that the beauty behind her makeup is moisturization. She believes that using an eye cream will prevent dark circles (sometimes caused by pigmentation from dryness), puffy bags, fine lines and wrinkles. Her favorite eye cream is Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado which works great for under eyes.

Contour Powder for Eyeshadow

Wow! That’s really a multi-purpose tip! I mean, imagine yourself splurging on a very expensive contour and also brown eye shadow for crease. Both the colors would be same and thus, we can easily to contour powder for eyes as well. We love her neutral soft brown eye makeup and soft brown cut crease eye makeup and no wonder, they look impeccable! I believe The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzer and NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder would be perfect for Indian skin tones.

Use a Scotch Tape

Yeah, you might think this is a beginner’s trick but when I saw that Kylie’s Makeup artist also uses this, I couldn’t believe! After applying the scotch tape (linking the end of lower lash and end point of brow), she used a brown contour powder for the crease and deepen it slightly with layering. Next, she applied a matte black eye shadow on the inner corner in the “V” shape a smudged it pretty well. After then, she took out the tape and voila! The edgy smoky eye is ready! This also creates a line for the winged eye liner to apply with ease.

Clumpy Lower Lash with Mascara

While we always hunt for mascaras that are least clumpy and use separate spoolie or cotton buds to prevent clumps, Kylie Jenner’s makeup artist explains that clumping on the lower lashes is good. It gives a natural smoky illusion to the lower lash by providing the little shadow underneath. Thus, you won’t have go again and again with the pencil brush or smudger to gives the smoky look which can be easily achieved through the mascara.

Illuminator before Foundation

Why haven’t anyone thought of that before! We love the dewy natural glow and that is the only reason we use the highlighter. Now, applying highlighter (powder or liquid) and blending it on the skin with the foundation on can be slightly tricky. It might also mess up the foundation and high chances are that, you would look like a disco ball if the strobing is done in excess. So, to get the natural (yet made up) dewy glow, apply the highlighter on bare skin and blend well. Now, apply the foundation and see the natural glow from within.

Contour with Darker Stick Foundation

We have seen that sometimes blending the contour power or cream is the toughest job on earth. Too much blending leads to a muddy look and messes up the base makeup as well. Therefore, instead of contour power or stick, use a foundation stick which is two shades darker than your skin and blend it in. In this way, the darker foundation will blend easily with the already blended foundation on the skin. There won’t be any patchy and uneven look and you won’t have to try too much as well.

Use an Orange Blush for Blush-Base

Have you ever heard that even your blush needs a base? Well, Kylie say so. Her MUA uses an orange blush before she applies a soft pink blush on her cheeks. Results? Warm and gorgeous! The orange color gives a basic warmth to the pink which will surely work like a wonder for Indian skin as well. It will help the blush to stay longer and smoother as well.

Always Use a Lip Liner

Her lips are as gorgeous as it can be. It is rumored that she spends around 40minutes to do her lip makeup and we can surely see what difference it makes. She suggests making the lip liner a Holy Grail for every lip makeup. Whether you are using a glossy, velvet matte, matte or liquid lipstick – never ever forget to line the lips first either with a neutral color or the similar color of the lipstick. Also, line the lips slightly above the natural lip line (don’t overboard it at all) and this will give an illusion of fuller lips. You can also add a dab of concealer of pale highlighter on the centre of the lip for the illusion.

Editor’s Note: Oo..that was a fabulous and much needed post Sanchita. I knew and followed 1-2 things but never knew all these tips, super helpful! Thanks a lot 🙂

So, let us know – which is your favorite Kylie Jenner makeup look?

P.S: Images from Google, Pinterest and Instagram

How To Plan Your Wedding Trousseau

Accessories, Lifestyle, Lingerie, Mumbai Bridal Diaries, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How To Plan Your Wedding Trousseau

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal posts from last month, today we are talking about wedding trousseau. How to plan it, what all to include, etc.

Trousseau mostly includes a new wardrobe, jewellery, makeup, clutches, shoes, basically everything a bride needs post wedding. Now every family has a different budget and different customs, some have a total of 11 outfits to give and some have 21 to 51 depending on the budget.

A bride should always mix and match the outfits in a trousseau, go for some anarkalis, some lehengas, sarees, kurtis and even western dresses for your honeymoon and the likes, so you have 1-2 options for every occasion post your wedding for at least a few months. But also keep your choice and lifestyle in mind, if you wear more of western wear and hardly wear any sarees, go for some basic 2-3 pieces and not more. Keep a balance and include everything but more of what you would actually need and use.

Jadtar (Kundan) Set

Coming to the outfits, what you must include is one piece of each type, like embroidery work, thread work, real silk, organza, zardozi, benarasi, gotta patti, so that from a simple occasion to a more grand occasion, you are sorted for everything. Also always have basic colors of blouses, petticoats and churidhars like gold, silver, red, green, blue, black and white so that you can mix and match.

Do not forget to include 1-2 classic pieces like silk, kanjeevaram, benarasi sarees or dresses that you can wear on any occasion and whatever the current trends, coz classic never goes out of style.

Also as already mentioned include more of western wear if that is what you are going to wear more of, anyway. New pair of denims, few tops, dresses, maxi dresses, skirts, and anything you can mix and match, a honeymoon wardrobe basically 😀

Lingerie, the most important, the right style and fit of lingerie can make or break your outfit. Invest in different types of lingerie & night wear like strapless, sports bra, lace, set of briefs and a few different styles of night wear.

Do not forget the accessories, bags and shoes. A basic gold and silver clutch for weddings, a formal bag, a casual bag and 2-3 pairs of basic shoes again including wedding wear, casual wear and a formal heels will keep you sorted. For accessories, buy only stuff that you would wear and matches your style from chunky statement pieces to delicate and dainty pieces, choose what you would actually use and relates to your style.

The most expensive part of your trousseau is the jewellery, invest in one gold and one diamond set at least but keep in mind your style when you buy it. For me personally, I like small and delicate jewellery and chose accordingly. Invest in classics that would go with your wedding wear and also evening or formal wear at the same time.

Makeup, again as I mentioned a lot of times, choose basic colors like golds, greens and browns for eye shadows or go for a palette which has all the basic shades. Or pick single eyeshadows and combine them in a magnetic palette to make your own customized palette. For lipsticks, choose a red, orange, nude, pink and you will be sorted for all outfits. But always try the shade before and pick up a tone that matches and works for your skin. Blush and highlighter are also an important part. Read my detailed post on what makeup your should include in your wedding trousseau HERE.

A cupboard to keep all the above stuff 😀 Also if you are setting up a new home, some basic home accessories can also be included. A bed spread, bed sheet and the likes would anyway be a part of trousseau. You will also be gifted dinner sets, tea sets and a lot of home accessories on your wedding, so maybe can buy those later.

Do not shop way too much and always be mindful of your budget. The key here is a balance of everything but within your budget 🙂

Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Beauty Hack: DIY SCRUB BAR

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Beauty Hack: DIY SCRUB BAR

By Sanchita

Scrubbing is extremely essential in winters as the development of dry skin needs to exfoliate to preserve then natural radiance of the skin itself. Honestly speaking, I prefer my winters with oversized sweatshirt, hot chocolate, a warm bed to snuggle in and reading a soul touching book. Yes, I am one of those lazy girls who like to keep the skin well-scrubbed of dead cells and yet do nothing about it. This is when a dear friend of mine told me to make a ‘scrub bar’ that would clean and exfoliate at the same time. My heart leaped with just with the thought of such multipurpose body care product and I immediately thought of making it. So it’s time, my dear readers of NLM, to let you know how to DIY this amazing thing!

Things you need:

  • Crushed soap bar. (a gel based one works better and easier to deal with)
  • Olive oil.
  • Glycerin.
  • Ground coffee. (not the instant one which blends in but the grounded beans for filter)
  • Empty container.

Steps:

Step 1

1. In a double boiler or on top of a boiling water, place the cut out pieces of the soap. Do not put it directly under the flames which would lead to burning.

Step 2

2. Once the soap melts in heat, simmer it down and add 2 tbsp. of olive oil and glycerin each. Then, mix it well with the liquid soap.

Step 3

3. Now add the coffee in it and again use a spoon to mix it well.

Step 4

4. Remove the mixture from the heat and pour in it the container. Now, this has to be done very quickly as the soap has the tendency to get sticky.

Step 5

5. Keep it in the refrigerator for 1-2hours. It also depends upon the soap on how much time it requires to solidify. Mine was done in 1hour.

Final

6. And you homemade scrub bar is ready to use!

P.S: You can also add big granules of sugar to exfoliate. Sugar is slightly coarser when solidified and hence I generally feel it is too rough for my normal skin but if you have dry skin, you can incorporate that. Also, you can make a separate scrub bar with sugar and walnut particles for feet as well.

As we all know, soaps are excellent in washing the dirt and therefore I added it to cleanse the skin. Olive oil and glycerin is extremely hydrating and hence, while scrubbing you will get the desired moisture to be restored. Lastly, the coffee particles are coarse and semi-fine milled which helps in exfoliation- gently and effectively. It stimulates the blood flow while scrubbing and tighten the skin thereby reduces cellulite and great for anti-ageing.

Overall, this has been a lifesaver for me. I imply invest less time for skin care yet get the best of it. Do let me how you liked my DIY.

Editor’s Note: This sounds amazing Sanchita and I love the coffee smell, definitely trying it out.

Have you tried making something like before? A DIY Scrub Bar? Will you try this? It’s easy peasy.

Acetone v/s Non-Acetone Nail Polish Removers

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Acetone v/s Non-Acetone Nail Polish Removers

By Ishleen

Why are acetone nail polish removers so much better for you!

Acetone or Non-acetone—that is the question?

We have been asked times innumerable about the safest way to remove nail polishes, are acetone based removers safe and whether or not non-acetone removers are better for the nails? So here we have a short post which hopefully will appease your queries.

The pondering over the question in regards to the safety of acetone removers is as intense as the heated debate on the health benefits of chocolate. But you do not need to drown in the frenzy of arguments, as we have planned to bring forward some logical set of reasonings.

What exactly is acetone?

Acetone is the second safest solvent in the nail industry, after water. And clearly, we cannot use water to remove nail polishes, because if we could, the nail industries would have never established. Ok, enough on that. Undoubtedly there are many other solvents in the world, but none are as safe as compared to acetone.

Does acetone have any health hazards?

Health hazards? No, not any that we have heard of. Some people tend to believe that acetone has the potency to aggravate carcinogens and thereby cause cancer. This is NOT THE TRUTH. No scientific institution or research has ever proved this.

Secondly, the market hype about non-acetone nail polish removers has made people believe that acetone can get absorbed by your skin and in the process can get mixed with your blood stream. Girls, acetone CAN NOT pass through the dermis level of your nail bed. Acetone gets evaporated a bit too fast to get absorbed into your nail plate. So, it’s safe.

Why should you choose acetone removers over non-acetone polish removers?

Markets today have very strategically created the image of non-acetone removers to be the better version of acetone removers. In reality this is not true. Acetone based nail polish removers are slightly safer than non acetone removers, which basically constitute methyl ethyl ketone and ethyl acetate. Both of which are harmful for the healthy growth of nails. Surprised much?

Coming to the argument that acetone removers are drying, we could not contest it. But so are non- acetone removers, undoubtedly. In fact non-acetone removers are much more drying than acetone removers as they are not as effective as acetone removers when it comes to removing nail polishes.

Non-acetone removers were made to work basically with acrylic nails, as they used to get dissolved when tampered with acetone removers. Thus they are less effective than acetone removers, there by leaving us with no other choice than to let it be in contact with the nail and nearby skin for longer periods of time. This causes much more dryness than any ordinary acetone remover.

What to do in order to avoid dryness caused by acetone based removers?

The basic question is why do your nails feel dry after setting in contact with acetone removers? Remember when I told you that acetone was a good solvent and it dissolves all the polish very effectively. Similarly, acetone being a solvent also dissolves the natural oil and moisture from the skin surrounding your nail bed. Simple enough, eh?

Talking about the solution, it is a complete no brainer. Feed the skin with what the acetone could rip it off of. Oil! I mean if the acetone tends to strip off natural oils from your skin, slather some olive or almond oil on to the skin (not the nails, just the surrounding skin) which will be getting affected by oil.

By doing this one simple step, the acetone will be dissolving the oils applied externally, safeguarding most of your natural oils and moisture in the skin. Easy peasy!

Ok, so I am in a good mood today. Let me just throw in a bonus trick for you gorgeous girls to enjoy.

BONUS TRICK: Gel nails are beautiful and they are all the rage in the nail industry nowadays. But let us accept it, they can be expensive; and the additional expense to get them removed at the salon can be too overwhelming for some. Now, that we know that acetone is far better than non-acetone removers, let us try a simple trick here. Dab some oil on to the skin surrounding your nails. Taking a cotton swab completely doused in acetone nail polish remover place it onto the nail and cover the nail with a foil paper (the one sitting handy in your kitchen) and let it be for about 3-5 minutes. Do not unwrap the foil; just pull it straight off the tip along with the cotton.

The same trick can be used to remove chunky glitter polishes, but the acetone dipped cotton covered with foil should not be left on the fingernails for more than 3-5 minutes. It can damage your natural nail bed.

After all the heated debates and settled arguments, I have finally come to the conclusion that acetone removers are all the much better than non-acetone nail polish removers for your skin.

The only problem that acetone can cause is drying and to avoid the unquenchable-nail feeling, you can try the following acetone based DIY recipe for gorgeously nourished nails. Just take:

1. Ten parts acetone (any kind of pure acetone will do)

2. Two parts of water (normal or tap water)

3. 10-15 drops of any oil of your choice (I personally prefer using olive oil)

4. 5-8 drops of vitamin E (you can even use one or two vitamin E capsules for this purpose)

Just add these four simple ingredients into any old nail polish remover bottle and voila! You have a customized acetone based nail lacquer remover which will remove the most stubborn of nail polishes without ever drying your nails. I swear your friends will be jealous of your beautiful nails 🙂

Editor’s Note: That’s quite an interesting post Ishleen, also loved the last DIY recipe and would be trying that out. I have tried acetone free ones thinking they are all good, but the nail paint just won’t come off :/ I usually love using this oil based nail polish remover pads. This DIY thing sounds quite good and economical.

Have you tried non-acetone nail polish removers? Don’t you find them drying plus they do not take off the nail paint at all! Will you try this DIY recipe?

P.S: Images from Google

Not just Welcome, Impress your Guests

Home Decor, Lifestyle, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not just Welcome, Impress your Guests

Hi guys,

With festivals around and guests coming in to visit, we all love to make up our home. Here are 5 tips that will not only freshen up your living space, but will also leave a lasting impression on the guests.

1.    Welcome guests in style.

The first part every guest sees is the entrance. Add potted plants at the entrance. This will make your home refreshing and inviting. Plus plants always spread a positive aura around.

2.    Get some space.

Want some more room for your room? Just add mirrors to different walls. A strategically placed mirror reflects light and can make a small area seem much larger! Works like magic, try that.

 3.    A small change to leave a big impact.

Sometimes, a little change in your interiors can leave your guests speechless. Don’t move everything around. Try swapping a chair, sofa or just brighten the lights. One quirky piece of furniture can also do the trick.

4.    Add to the charm.

Say goodbye to boring. Dress up your drawer handles with colorful ribbons, paint legs of an old chair or cover old boxes with wrapping paper. You can even reuse the plastic bottles as flower vases by spray painting them. There are so many ways to DIY your old stuff, check Pinterest for some home decor DIY and get inspired.

5.    Let the kitchen do the talking

A clean & hygienic kitchen will make you picture perfect in front of your guests. That’s why, while cleaning the kitchen, make sure you get rid of cockroaches too. Cockroaches are not just embarrassing but also dangerous. They crawl into your kitchen through dirty places and hide in various corners. They spread food poisoning by contaminating food & utensils behind your back.

So, don’t let cockroaches turn you and your guests down. Use LAL HIT, the only solution that can kill even the hidden cockroaches with its unique ‘Deep Reach Nozzle’.

Controlling the pests is most important for health and hygiene, so #SayNoToFoodPoisoning today.

How do you welcome your guests? Any home decor tips or DIY you would like to suggest? Let me know in the comments below.

P.S: Image from Google

Under Eye Circles & Bags : Causes & Remedies

Dark Circles, Lifestyle, Skin care, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Under Eye Circles & Bags : Causes & Remedies

By Ishleen

Lifestyles today are more stressful than comfortable, despite the luxuries that we can indulge in. Computers, mobiles, and all the electronic gadgets that we have involved to make our lives simpler have further disturbed our working schedules, that too on the cost of the health of our body. More work, less sleep; and the direct results are clearly visible in the puffiness and dark shadows around our eyes.

Raccoon eyes, under-eye bags, dark circles, shadows, panda eyes; all these are names of the same problem. So what basically causes our eyes to develop such conditions?

Read below to know more.

Causes

Whether you may know it or not, the skin which appears to be bluish black under our eyes is because of the skin in that area being too thin, thus making the blood vessels visible all the more. No, your blood vessels are not exactly blue; but only the wavelengths of blue and purple colors are allowed to be reflected by your under-eye skin, thus giving an impression of bluish-black under eye bags.

1. Genetics

One of the major causes of recurring or prominent dark circles is genetics. If your parents have thin skin around the eyes, or more than average blood vessels, it is almost certain that you will be passed on with the unfortunate trait.

2. Age and Gender

Dark circles under the eyes can begin to be dominantly visible in your 20’s, both in males and females alike; but they are most daunting in the old age. In old age, our skins loose elasticity and do not have the ability to regenerate the skin cells at a steady pace, thus the predominance of raccoon eyes.

3. Fatigue and sleeplessness

In case of fatigue, skin produces a chemical named cortisol, to give your body dynamism when it is working on low levels of energy. It increases the volume of blood in the body, thereby enlarging the blood vessels by creating more pressure in them. As the skin is thin around your delicate eyes, the engorged blood vessels are more prominently visible.

4. Ruptured blood vessels

At times, blood vessels under the eyes can get ruptured and the blood leaking from them starts oxidizing; leading to dim shadows on the lean membrane underneath the eyes. However this is nothing to be much apprehensive about, as in the company of the right type of treatments; this hitch can be easily rectified.

5. Excess of sleep and other lifestyle reasons

Dark under eye circles can even be caused by high sodium intake; which helps in retaining more fluids in body, leading to puffiness; which in turns makes dark circles more visible. Sleeping on your stomach for prolonged periods of time, leads to the accumulation of fluids in the facial area, especially around the eyes, causing freaky dark circles. Or say, when you have been crying uncontrollably, for any reason whatsoever, the salinity of your tears leads to puffiness around your eyes. So forget what happened and just smile 🙂

Remedies

If you are one of those few unlucky ones who have to bear with the problem of dark under eye circles, no matter what, and you do not want to spend on swanky under eye creams or laser surgeries; these home remedies await you.

a) Cucumber apart from acting as a cooling agent, also works as a lightening instrument and an astringent for your skin. Placing cucumber slices on your eyes, or gently rubbing cotton balls dipped in fresh cucumber juice can help to reduce the dark circles. Though the cucumber juice works better if you leave it overnight. Don’t worry; your skin will readily absorb it.

b) Potato juice is great to reduce the puffiness around the eyes, and is often used for treating tan spots and blemishes. Grate a raw potato, extract its juice, and apply the freshly squeezed juice to the affected area. Leave it on overnight if possible.

c) For added goodness, mix both cucumber and potato juice, and with a soft cotton pad, dab the juice gently on to the skin. Leave the juice on for about half an hour, and wash the face with cold water.

ADDITIONAL TIP: To keep the eyes moisturized, follow up by gently massaging olive, coconut or almond oil around the eye area. Remember not to put too much pressure around the eyes.

2. Frozen metal spoons

For instant relief from under eye circles caused by lack of sleep, or sleeping in the wrong posture for prolonged periods of time; all you need is two frozen metal spoons. Make it a habit to keep two metal spoons in your freezer so that you can utilize them any time you want. Just place the rounded edges of the spoon on the eye area and let it rest till the temp of the spoon becomes normal. The cooling effect will help stimulate blood circulation and also decrease the quantity of fluid accumulation around the peepers.

3. Chilled Green tea bags

Green tea is chock full of anti-oxidants, and anti-oxidants are good for your skin. Period. Dip two green tea bags in boiling water, and let them stay immersed for about 3-4 minutes. Take out the tea bags and place them in the freezer, letting them stay till they are chilled. (In the meanwhile, enjoy the goodness of your green tea.) Once the tea bags are chilled enough, place them onto your under eye areas, one bag on each eye, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes. You will notice the results for yourself.

4. The goodness of rose water

Pure Rose water is one product which is the answer of almost all skin care problems. Yes it is that good. Dab a pair of cotton balls in cold rose water, and apply it to the eyes. Let the cotton balls stay on the eyes for as long as possible and wash your face off. Do not forget to follow up with a rich moisturizer.

5. The Wonderful Tomato juice

Most of the treatments for dark under eye circles lie in our own kitchen. Tomatoes comprise of lycopene, which is a great anti-oxidant and has the ability to lighten your skin. Squeeze the juice of one ripe tomato, or mash the pulp and mix in a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Lemon juice again acts as a bleaching agent and has anti-inflammatory properties which reduce puffiness. Apply this mixture under the eyes and let it stay for about 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water for better results.

6. Crushed mint leaves

Mint has amazing cooling properties which helps in instantly soothing the skin and reducing the appearance of dark discoloration around the eyes. Crush a few mint leaves using a mortar and pestle and apply the leaves as it is under the eyes. Wait for about 15 minutes and then remove any residue with a damp cotton swab. You can even mix the goodness of cucumber juice to the crushed leaves for better results.

7. Cold compress or ice pack

Cold compress works on the same principal as that of the metal spoons. The chilling effect will help stimulate blood circulation, thereby diminishing puffiness and rectifying the temporary pigmentation under the eyes. Either use a gel based cold compress, or take a few ice cubes wrapped in a thin cloth, and place them under your eyes till the ice melts off completely. Goodbye, raccoon eyes. 😉

8. The efficient milk and fenugreek seed paste

This DIY under eye face mask can work wonders to rectify dark circles. Take a few fenugreek (methi) seeds and soak them overnight. The next day, grind the seeds to form a fine paste. To this paste add a tablespoon of milk and a pinch of turmeric. Mix well, and apply the paste under the eyes.

9. White bread and milk

Milk has both fats and proteins, making it the best moisturizer for our skin. Mix this elixir of goodness with a slice of white bread, mixing it into a fine paste. Apply this paste daily on your under eye area for smoother and even toned under eye skin.

10. Say goodbye to bad habits

Smoking, drinking and stressing a tad bit too much are the main causes which can lead to hyper pigmentation around the eyes and leads to fluid accumulation, causing puffiness. For eyes that do not resemble that of a panda, try bidding goobye to these bad habits of yours.

Till when are you going to hide the dark under eye area with corrective concealers and heavy-duty foundations? It is high time you followed one of these easy tips listed above and bid goodbye to these nasty shadows which never allow you to look your best. But remember that all the points listed above are purely natural and you should not expect instantaneous results; patience is the key.

Editor’s Note: Well written post Ishleen, I am going to try some of the tips myself 😀

Do you have dark circles? Use any of the tips mentioned? Also add your own tips in the comments below which work for you.

P.S: Images from Google

The Perfect Engagement Look – Indian Weddings

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The Perfect Engagement Look – Indian Weddings

Hi guys,

Today we are talking about the perfect engagement look i.e. the makeup, hairstyle and the jewellery. Let me share a few engagement looks you can opt for:

1. Traditional Look

The traditional look would be the basic gold/bronze/copper eyes and a dash of green/purple/blue according to your outfit. Match it with a hot pink lipstick and soft curls for the hair. You can part hair at the centre for the maang tikka and add a nice necklace to finish the look. This look is perfect for a daytime engagement look. Also don’t forget to add false lashes, I had used them too! And they make a lot of difference.

2. Fun & Girly

If it’s a small ‘family only’ function and you are wearing a simple anarkali, you can go for neutral brown/gold eyes and soft peach lips. An updo with curls on the side would look great and a maang tikka with heavy statement earrings will finish the look. You can skip the necklace here as you don’t want the ‘over done’ look.

3. Boho Chic

For the modern boho bride, you can opt for a messy fishtail bride and accessorize it with a necklace. Soft brown eyeshadow, winged liner and matte red lips on the makeup front. Wear a bindi to finish the look. Polki necklace and earrings are the perfect match with this look.

4. Modern Evening Look

If you have a night time engagement cum party kind of a function. opt for a gown and a glamorous night time look is your best bet. A nice messy bun and smokey eyes with nude lips are perfect. Go for nice statement chandelier earrings and a cocktail statement ring.

Few things to keep in mind:

1. Don’t over spray your hair, it is quite visible and looks made up. I had gone for soft curls with a pouf and my hair is way too soft, I had to spray a lot to keep them in place and trust me, it doesn’t look good in person.

2. Contouring looks good in pictures but you would be meeting a lot of people personally, so don’t over contour, keep it very light and natural.

3. If you opt for false lashes, go for very natural looking ones and not too over sized or dramatic. Also make sure they are glued and stuck well, you don’t want them to come off in the midst of your function.

4. Nails, it will be all about your ring and the hands 😉 Well manicured nails with some pretty nail art and you will get amazing pictures. I went with the classic French manicure, coz I believe they look beautiful with the mehendi. You can also add rhinestones or some floral studs on the white French.

5. Bangles, this is the day when you go all out. They look pretty and complete your entire outfit and look beautifully.

6. You can also add a waist belt/jooda if you are wearing a saree or lehenga.

You can always mix and match the above looks, you need not stick to any single style. I had opted for tight curls with a pouf on top for my engagement. I did not go for a maang tikka but just necklace and earrings and of course lots of bangles. Makeup wise, I went with a mix of bronze and brown with hint of blue as my outfit was blue. Soft pink lips and a small bindi completed my look.

Three things that you must do for any look:

  • Dewy, highlighted skin
  • Filled eye brows
  • False Eyelashes

Rest is upto you and your outfit 🙂

Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

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5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal series, today’s topic is the fabrics and colours that are perfect for weddings in the winter season. Fabric is the most important when it comes to Indian ethnic wear; also it should be something you are comfortable with, because comfort is most important when it comes to the heavy wedding attire.

There are different options to choose from like organza, mal, suede, silk, crepe, chiffon, georgette, etc. It is quite confusing for a bride to be honest. However, fret not, let me list down the best options for you according to the current wedding season.

1. Organza

Organza is one of the most fluid fabrics and it falls beautifully. It is perfect for the sleeves or as the top layer of your skirt/ghagra/lehenga. It looks amazing as a jacket or cape too. Zardozi work looks beautiful on the organza fabric.

2. Silk

One of the most used fabrics in Indian ethnic wear is silk. There are different types within silk like raw silk, cotton silk, etc. Raw silk looks the best when it comes to choli or the blouse. You can even wear an entire anarkali or ghagra choli of silk.

3. Crepe

Crepe works well for sarees and tunics. Crepe sarees look beautiful, even on curvy women as it gives shape and definition to the body and does not make one look bulky. Long crepe jackets are also a good option for winters.

4. Mal

Mal fabric is the softest and most comfortable for any attire. It is perfect for daytime weddings, though it is slightly on the expensive side, but, for days when you have to be out for a ceremony whole day, mal fabric outfit would be your best bet.

5. Velvet

Velvet is also a perfect fabric for winters. You can add it on the choli’s sleeves or as a thick border for your bottoms.

Coming to colours now…

1. Powder Pink/Blush Pink/Onion Pink

Pastel shades of pink are “in” this season and they look beautiful. Matched up with contrasting colours like navy blue and purple for the bottoms or borders, it makes the outfit stand out.

2. Bright shade of yellow

Oh yes! The sunshine yellow with floral print and appliqué style looks beautiful. Add gota patti border and it notches up the outfit. It is perfect for your mehendi/chooda ceremony. You can easily buy the fabric border and get it stitched as per your design.

3. Ivory/Toasted Almond

Now, ivory is not something you can wear for your functions as light shades are not really considered a good sign by some, but, you can definitely include it in your trousseau. Match it up with a bright red in a saree or anarkali and stand out, on a silk base.

4. Tangerine

Tangerine/Orange is my favourite! Bright orange paired with sunshine yellow/pink looks beautiful. You can go for a lehenga/anarkali in those shades with dull gold zardozi work on it.

5. Emerald Green

Emerald/jewel green is also “in” this season. It compliments lighter colours and makes for a nice contrast. Polki jewellery looks beautiful with an outfit that has a hint of green.

What are your favourite fabrics and colors for winter weddings?