Category Archives: Top 5

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Delhi, Prices, Contact Details

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Delhi, Prices, Contact Details

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Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Delhi, Prices, Contact Details

By Sanchita

Wedding makeup isn’t easy. You just cant cake up the face and look like you have kilos of makeup and end up looking nothing like yourself. It is such an occasion where you just can’t get away with the wrong shade of lip color or blush because the spotlight will always be on you, throughout. Therefore it is best to rely on the professional bridal makeup artists. Delhi has a bunch of stylists, and makeup artists to choose from and thus the bride is surely spoilt for choice for her wedding day. But, choosing the best amongst so many options is definitely a difficult task to begin with. We have enlisted the best bridal makeup artists and you may consider booking an appointment with for your wedding day.

1. Guru Makeup Artist (Gursewak)

Gursewak Singh (popularly known as Guru Makeup Artist) is one of the top bridal makeup artists in Delhi. He has worked for famous brands like MAC and Make Up For Ever and later took up freelance bridal makeup assignments all over Delhi & NCR. He is also available for destination weddings. Most of his brides have minimal and contemporary makeup look with enhanced features and also does the makeup according to the preference to the clients. Apart from bridal work, he has also worked for fashion shows, movie industry, photography, TV, etc. You can surely take a look of his brides on his website www.gurumakeupart.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 9582 01 84 95 and Email: info@gurumakeupart.com

Also Read: Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Bangalore and Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Kolkata

2. Ambika Pillai

Ambika Pillai is the most popular bridal artists of Delhi. Her awards for makeup include Vogue Best Make-up Artist Award 2011, Cosmopolitan Fun Fearless Female Awards for Best Hair and Makeup Artist 2009 and Bharat Nirman Super Achievers Award 2007. The bridal services include hair wash, hairstyling, draping as well and hence you won’t have to look any further. However, she is not available for destination weddings but her senior makeup artists are. Every bride of her looks elegant and flawless and you can check more details on her website www.ambikapillai.com

CONTACT DETAILS – D-16 South Extension Part 2, 3rd floor, above Fitness First, New Delhi – 110049. Mobile: +91 8377019766 and Email: customercare@ambikapillai.com

3. Chandni Singh

Chandni Singh is one of the most high-priced bridal artists of Delhi but she’s totally worth it. Every bride of her has this charming look where she accentuates the features and tries minimalistic look on her brides. She lays emphasis on the base which should be smooth and flawless. Chandni Singh’s offered services for brides includes hair, makeup, and nails. You can check more of her work on her webpage www.chandnisingh.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 11 41666441 442 and +91 9810085243. Email: Chandni@ChandniSingh.com

Also Read: Top 10 Locations for the Perfect Destination Wedding in India

4. Komal Gulati

Komal Gulati is an expert on international bridal makeup and her work is pure magic. Her lays emphasis on how the bride should look dewy, glowing and yet keeps the bridal makeup minimal and classy. She is mainly Delhi-based and also takes freelance assignments. She makeup courses include Professional School of Makeup London and another course from the famous Beyond The Fringe, Sydney. Thus, she is a thorough professional in her field. She does air-makeup as well and also check out her works on www.komalgulati.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 9811033843. Email: komal@komalgulati.com/makeupkg@gmail.com

5. Shruti Sharma

Shruti Sharma is Delhi based bridal makeup artist who started as a freelance makeup artist in 2008. She has her own bridal studio at Chattarpur, New Delhi and she is available for outstations as well. Her fee ranges between Rs. 20k to 40k in general. Every bride of hers has flawless glowing skin with expressive eye makeup. You can see glimpses of her work on her website www.shrutisharmamakeup.in

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +918800578358 / +919899048153 and Email: roguealert@gmail.com

Stubborn acne? Avoid these 5 foods! Results in a month!

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Stubborn acne? Avoid these 5 foods! Results in a month!

By Ankita

Let’s start with a scenario today. It’s a beautiful morning and your alarm goes off. You wake up to a fresh new beautiful day, get off the bed, go to your bathroom, look at the mirror. And, there it is another tiny little bump on your face. Darn it!!! Not now! Not today! You got your big meeting at 11 and date at 8! You have tried every little thing. Serums, treatments even the dermats know you by name now.

Frustrating isn’t it? Been there, done that. Although my acne story was much different, as I never (touchwood) faced severe acne, but one of my closest cousins did. Last month she got married and we haven’t had been in touch for about a year lately. I don’t exactly know what magic potion worked for her but, there she was on her marriage day, without a bump on her face (before makeup) and glowing. I couldn’t help but ask her, what really worked for her.

Me: Hey, like…what did you eat? I mean you look gorgeous girl, not that you didn’t before but your acne problem..?

She: Haha..Nope ask me what I DID NOT eat.

Me: Okay, go on!! I am all ears.

And the conversation went on…

However me being the curious little Nancy Drew that I am, did a little bit of my own research to testify her words, and guess what? She was right

So, my lovelies here is my list of top 5 baddie food you should avoid when going through bouts of acne.

WOAAH WAIT WAIT!! HOW DOES THIS EXACTLY WORK??

Well, this is called the process off elimination. If you can’t find out what is causing your acne outbursts, try eliminating some food items from your diet that have a bad reputation of triggering acne. Otherwise healthy, these 5 foods can worsen existing acne.

1. Fast Food

I bet you love your plate of ‘Gol gappa’ and ‘Aloo tikka chaat’ with extra Mirchi. But hold on their sweetheart. Did you know greasy fast foods will leads to body inflammation that causes pimples appear?

Includes: Fish & Chips, Pizza, Burger, Fried chicken, Sausages, Noodles, Pasta, Noodles, Snacks & Desserts: Hot-dogs, Donuts, Potato chips, French fries, Crisps, Popcorn etc

2. Sugar

We all have our sweet tooth, and sometimes it’s too hard to resist. Excessive sugar intake shoots up your blood sugar level causing pimples. Try to avoid candy bars, sugary drinks as well as other sweets saturated with sugar. Follow this with dedication and you will soon see a major difference.

Includes: Sugars, Syrups & Sweeteners, Drink Powders & Soft Drinks, candies, cookies, pies and unfortunately everything yum!!!

3. Cow Milk

Cow’s milk not only shoots up blood sugar levels leading to pimples, it also leads to growth in hormones resulting in overgrowth of skin cell that leads to blocked pores. So, you might just want to avoid dairy products for a while and check if it does any good for your skin condition.

Includes: milk, cheese, yogurt, other cultured dairy foods, ice cream etc.

4. Coffee

Nothing wakes you up better than a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Ahh, the smell! But hold that thought. Science has shown that an organic acid inside coffee beans that raises cortisol levels.

Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, can act like an androgen. It stimulates sebaceous glands and inflammation, a.k.a PIMPLES. You might want to skip that and check for some results

Includes: Expresso, mocha, latte, cappuccino, even the decaf versions

5. Soy:

Soy is one of the richest sources of protein you can lay your hands on. The natural plant oestrogen is found in soybeans. “Phytoestrogens” which are otherwise good, mimic natural oestrogen levels and play around with our hormones. Result? Acne and more acne. So if you are experiencing any bumps around your mouth and chin, the culprit MIGHT be soy.

Includes: Soybeans, soy milk, soy sauce, soybean oil, tofu etc.

SO YOU ARE BASICALLY TRYING TO STARVE ME TO DEATH.RIGHT??!!!

Not at all. All I am saying is, eating in moderation never hurts. Once you find out what triggers your acne, yes you definitely have to cut it out from your diet sweet heart.

A FEW TIPS FOR THOSE HORRIBLE PHASES OF ACNE:

1. Visit a good dermatologist, home remedies and DIYs do work, however, common guys those guys have sweated their brains out in med school for 5 years. Let’s give them some credit.

2. Keep your skin as well as belongings clean. Do not let any product build up on your face, neck as well as other affected areas. It is equally important to keep your sheets and phone germ-free.

3. Avoid using a lot of makeup ( I recommend no makeup at all!!!) for the time being. Although a lot of companies claim to be safe to use on any skin type, it is always better to let your skin breathe. Give it time to heal.

4. Check your stress levels. Now this one is the most difficult, at least for me. You all must be thinking “better said than done”. This one is coming from a person who has years of history of anxiety and depression on her sleeves. What helped? Yoga, meditation, and good life practices. Before I was a Life Coach, I used to be a wacko. If I can do it, you can too.

5. Keep your scalp clean and dandruff free.

6. Finally, have patience. I get it. I totally do. Dealing with acne can be a lot irritating, but don’t let that put you down. It might be difficult, not irreversible. And you cares if you have acne or not, you are gorgeous anyway!!

Hakuna Matata baby!!!

Any comments, suggestions and ideas are always welcome 🙂

“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring” – Marilyn Monroe

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice and informative post Ankita

Do you suffer from stubborn acne? Try eliminating these from your diet, I am sure you see a difference!

Top 6 Matte Pink Lipsticks under Rs.500 in India | Swatches | Giveaway

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Top 6 Matte Pink Lipsticks under Rs.500 in India | Swatches | Giveaway

Hi guys,

I love pink lipsticks and I love matte lipsticks, so it was only fair that I do the Top 6. Now I didn’t feature Colourpop and all those brands that are not easily available and not within the budget of Rs.500.

From my favourites, I managed to pick not 5 but 6 beautiful matte pink shades, all under 500. So here goes..

1. Maybelline Vivid Matte Lipstick Vivid 2 – Rs.475/- (Buy HERE)

It’s a bright neon candy pink shade, would work for fair to medium skin tones. Keep the rest of the makeup minimal with just a winged liner when you wear such a bright pink shade

2. Lakme Enrich Matte Lipstick PM 11- Rs.295/- (Buy HERE)

PM 11 is one of my favourites, this range has some pretty good shades and very affordable at Rs.295. It’s a neutral pink that will work for all skin tones, especially fair to medium

3. Elle 18 Colour Pop Matte Lipstick Rose Day- Rs.100/- (Buy HERE)

Again a neutral pink that will work for all skin tones, especially fair to medium. Very affordable and 20 shades to choose from, one of my go-to pinks. This has a soft matte finish and stays for a pretty decent time.

4. Miss Claire Soft Matte Lip Cream No. 12- Rs.160 to 180 (Buy HERE)

Comfortable soft matte liquid lipstick, No. 12 is my most favourite shade in the Miss Claire Range. A mid tone pink, not very bright, but easy to pair with everything. This will work on all skin tones.

5. Nykaa So Matte Lipstick 02 Frisky Fuchsia- Rs.399/-

Nykaa has a lot of pinks, I like 2-3 of them but Frisky Fuchsia is my favourite pink out of them. It’s a slightly warm rosy fuchsia pink. Everyday wearable shade and would look good on fair to medium skin tones.

6. Sugar Smudge Me Not Liquid Lipstick 02 Brink of Pink- Rs.499/- (Buy HERE)

This is a recent addition to the list, a deep bright pink. These are very drying but very long lasting. Brink of Pink would work on all skin tones, especially deeper skin tones.

If you want to see all the swatches on me, here is the video..

These are my favourite matte pink lipsticks, I hope you like this list.

I am giving away Maybelline Vivid Matte Lipstick in Vivid 2 to one of you, it’s only for YouTube subscribers, so all you have to do is like the video, subscribe and comment with your favourite shade.

I will announce the winner after 2 weeks in the info bar of same video, ends 17th April

Good Luck 🙂

Sheet Masks 101: 5 On-The-Go Sheet Masks You NEED to Carry in Your Bag

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Sheet Masks 101: 5 On-The-Go Sheet Masks You NEED to Carry in Your Bag

By Ankita

Hola Chica Bonitas

I hope all my beautiful ladies are doing really good. I was in the mood for some spa yesterday. Without wasting any time I quickly went ahead and checked the rate charts on various websites. Then, one look at my wallet and I was like ‘meh..may be next month’. Trust me, this is the story of every month.

However, I am one of those ‘never-say- never’, who is constantly in search of a decent ‘jugaad’. Believe me what I found out was more than a ‘jugaad’

What if, I told you, you could have your very own spa day, at less than half the price….and of course at the comfort of your home? Yes, mi amigos, for the next 4 minutes, I will be rambling about sheet masks and I promise, by the end of it you will thank god for bringing these little babies to the world.

What are Sheet Masks?

Sheet masks are basically fabrics cut into the shape of a face, soaked in potent serums, to give you the maximum benefit. The sheets can be made up of a variety of safe materials including papers, fibres or gel even! They come in many variants for different skin types and conditions.

Sheet Mask Vs Regular face pack

Why would you choose a sheet mask at all? Well for starters they are convenient to use, non-messy, travel-friendly and not to forget, most importantly, they are the mother load of nutrients. As opposed to a face pack that might dry out your skin sheet masks provide the right amount of moisturization your skin needs.

Right way to use a sheet mask

Easy as pie!!

– cleanse

– tone

-take the mask out of the packet and adjust it on your face

-keep it on for a good 20 minutes

-take it off and DO NOT WASH

-pat the product into the skin and finally moisturize

Voila!! We are good to go!

How often can I use a sheet mask?

There are no set rules regarding the frequency of use. Some people even vouch for, using it every day. However, you can start by using it 1-2 times a week.

My obsession with sheet masks started a few months back and guess what! After a lot of trying and testing, I have put together the Oscar winners of sheet masks just for my gal pals, so that you look gorgeous, even on the go.

Category 1: The fairest of them all

The Face Shop Bio-Cell Brightening Face Mask

This mask works as an elixir for dull skin. As mentioned on their website these are special type of sheets made out of biocellulose, the Face Mask by Faceshop gets adhered to skin flawlessly and delivers full nutrition to the skin. It has glutathione, which works wonder towards skin brightening.

The effect: smooth, glowing and bright skin. Why wait to be the evil queen from Snow White! I mean she was gorgeous right?

MRP: Rs.150/- (Buy HERE for 120)

Category 2: Age is just another number

Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Pomegranate

Ever wondered the secret behind a vampire’s ageless skin? No, it’s not blood. That will be pomegranate juice. Power packed with real pomegranate essence, this mask is sure to take away years off your skin. This is a triple layered sheet mask that fits tightly over the skin and helps it stay hydrated for an extended period. You can now say good bye to wrinkles and sagging skin. Hello, beautifully radiant soft skin.

MRP: Rs.100 (Buy HERE)

Category 3: Bad day, be gone!!!

Anatomicals Botanical Purifying Tea Tree Cloth Face Mask

Bad hair days are very common. But bad skin days? They are horrible. Worry not, Anatomicals bring you the best of skincare for problematic skin with their Purifying Tea Tree Cloth Face Mask. One simple equation, Tea tree + Aloe Vera = unmatched radiance and clear skin

Blackheads? Whiteheads? Off with their heads!! A must have for oily skinned beauties

MRP: Rs.299/- (Buy HERE)

Category 4: Dry and Dead? Try this

Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Shea Butter

Although I have never struggled with a dry skin issue, but, watching some of my friends struggling to get that ‘malai’ stick to their faces made me think..hmmm I gotta save their day and now they swear by it!!! Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Shea Butter sheet masks provide just the right amount of moisture to give that baby bounce to your face. Soft shea butter deeply hydrates dry skin from within giving you that goddess glow. This, my beauties, is a Holy Grail product for dry skin.

MRP: Rs.100/-

Category 5: Girls just wanna have fun!!

MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask

I have saved the best for the last. Admit it, you rarely get time for that spa session or salon treatment your skin totally deserves, before a party. But that’s no excuse, not to look stunning!

MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask have a hoard of good ingredients like Argan Oil,Orange Peel Oil, Super Fruit Extracts, Rice Extract and Honey to energize, hydrate, brighten and prime your skin for a flawless and velvety-smooth finish. Pick one of these and get your diva on.

MRP: Rs.460/- (Buy HERE)

Sheet Masks take skin care to a whole new level. With almost negligible side effects, these are selling like hot cakes in the market. Not to mention, they do not burn a whole in your pocket. Using sheet masks religiously would definitely show visible results within a matter of months. Have these cute little ‘power banks’ to recharge your skin, in your bags and I can guarantee you, they will be your next Valentine.

Any comments, (compliments ;-)), views and suggestions are always welcome. Stay gorgeous and stay blessed 🙂

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice way of explaining and I loved all 5 you picked.

Do you use sheet masks? Which is your favourite?

Best Herbal/Natural Face Masks for Acne & Acne Scars in India, Prices, Buy Online

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Best Herbal/Natural Face Masks for Acne & Acne Scars in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Nidhal

To say that we all are subjected to the vicissitudes of weather would be truism. To say that we all bear the brunt of those weather changes that shows on our skin is yet again sooth. While we may have a multitude of quick-fix solutions at our disposal yet for those who do not eye quick results but rather long-lasting and non-toxic results, it makes sense to zero in on face masks that are not only devoid of deleterious chemicals but also infused with the virtues of natural ingredients in their virgin form.

On that note, here is a list of those face masks available in India that would help you bid farewell to zits/spots/marks.

1. Tarika Ayurlabs – At Tarika, the endeavour is to be as faithful to the principles of Ayurveda as possible. Right from the procurement of herbs to the packaging stage, there is indubitable synergy in the combination of herbs. The manufacturing process described in detail in Ayurveda is followed conscientiously sans taking shortcuts. No chemicals, preservatives or additives are added to the products. Incepted in 1995, the glorious enterprise’s owners realised that even though Ayurveda is a vast ocean of goodness to be delved into, not much attention is given to it by the government, policy makers and people at large.

Coming to their eclectic range, it is Tarika’s Pimple/Acne Removers mask that has me smitten. Claiming to treat stubborn acne, its inimitable formula was developed in 1996. Proven to be efficacious for all types of skin throughout the year, it is a 100% natural product. Shipped all over India, everything about it is impressive. It certainly cleared out my skin within a short span of time. I don’t have acne hence, can’t comment on its efficacy to tackle it yet I am certain of its bountifulness. Wondrous, I say!

PRICE- 280/- INR for 50g (Buy HERE)

2. Kan’s Natural Beauty Care- Mrs. Kanchana S Babu’s all-natural, preservative and artificial- fragrance free venture, all the way from Chennai has all the reasons to be on our list. Keeping an eye on each and every facet of her products right from sourcing her ingredients to the composition of the products, she is an encyclopaedia of home remedies. Incredibly patient to lend an ear to your skin/hair woes, she recommends products on the basis of what would work for you rather than force a product down your throat.

From her bewitching range of chemical-free products that span hair masks, face masks, hair oils and body scrubs, what caught my eye was the Kasturi Anti Pimple Face Pack which is made of 100% natural ingredients. Its natural ingredients include sandalwood, Vetiver, Rose petals and Neem, all of which are great anti-bacterial agents that control even the most severe of pimples and reduce marks and blemishes. Apt for use by everyone, it helps one achieve a more even and luminous skin tone overtime. For the price you are paying, you surely are getting a value-for- money product!

PRICE- 195/- INR for 50g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

3. Raw Rituals- Composed of sandalwood powder, lodhra bark extract, ginger lily powder, fuller’s earth powder, wild turmeric powder, nutmeg powder and Aloe vera powder, Raw Rituals’ Tarditional Healing Face Pack spells luxury from the word go! Owned and operated by the courteous Mrs. Lovina Agarwal from the Manchester of India aka Ahmadabad, Raw Rituals’s range of products is not only chemical-free but also handmade and vegetarian.

With the aroma of their products attained by the virtue of addition of pure therapeutic grade essential oils, your nose won’t have to crinkle into folds in utter repugnance when a tub/pot/bottle of their product is opened. Rather, brace yourselves for you will be swept off your feet.

Apt for use by all skin types, it not only fades blemishes overtime (realistically) but also imparts a winsome glow temporarily which is augmented, if used regularly. Packed scrupulously in an aesthetic and travel-friendly package, it can be carted conveniently while travelling.

PRICE- 190/- INR for 25g (Buy HERE)

4. Quinta Essentia Organics- A little biased towards my fellow Delhi-ites, Quinta Essentia Organics- an organic skin, body and hair care venture is helmed by the lovely duo- Ms. Arti and Atika Gaur. No points for guessing, it is based out of Delhi and churns out indulgences.

No, I won’t call them “products”. They are far above than mere products. At the helm of affairs, is Arti who holds years of experience and a degree in Ayurveda from Dhyan Foundation. With a degree in biotechnology, comes Atika into the picture. Conscious consumers as the two call themselves, we cannot help but gawk at their drool-worthy range of indulgences spanning- body butters, cold-pressed soaps, hair masks, body oils, lip butters, mineral makeup, chawanpraash (formulated as per ancient Ayurvedic texts and wildcrafted/certified organic ingredients), sun veil, organic lip sticks and so on.

From their enticing range, what caught my fancy was the Olive Clay Soap. Packed in a tub which may confound one and all, it comes in a semi-liquid form and takes just a few minutes to work its magic. For use on damp skin, the time limit is 20 minutes whereas for those using it like a face wash, restrict it to 5-7 minutes. Post washing, it not only clears your skin tone instantaneously but also imparts a tinge of luminosity that looks incredulously natural- something most makeup products also fail in eliciting!

PRICE- 1,200/- INR for 70g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

5. Vedantika Herbals- With a range that encompasses not only beauty products but also health food, Vedantika Herbals is here on our list. Known to keep the ingredients’ list of their products minimal, their beauty care range of products spans a body polishing ubton/ubtan, anti-aging face mask, skin glow mask, anti-acne mask amongst others. Shipped all over India, their beauty care products are packed in aesthetic bottles that make them handy as well as durable. Adding no nasties like- parabens, sulphates, phthalates, petrochemicals, SLS, SLES, alcohol and the ilk to their products, they believe in keeping pernicious chemicals at an arm’s length from their tempting products.

I find the Anti-Acne Mask from their range worth a mention. While I do not suffer from acne, I can’t comment on how efficacious it would be for a person suffering from the same yet, what I can comment about is, is its cooling and rejuvenating properties which make it an ideal pick for blistering summers. Good to enough to be used daily, it doesn’t suck up the moisture of your skin and is safe for use by all skin types. Pulverized finely, it won’t scratch your skin too. Creditable, isn’t it?

PRICE- 185/- INR for 70g (Buy HERE)

Editor’s Note: They all sounds really, would definitely love to try some of these.

Have you tried any of these anti-acne/acne scar removal natural masks?

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Kolkata, Price, Contact Details

Bridal Files, Makeup, Makeup Artist, Mumbai Bridal Diaries, Top 5, Women, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Kolkata, Price, Contact Details

By Sanchita

Every bride wants to be decked by a professional makeup artist. In previous days, it was the friends and relatives who used to dress by the bride but now the equation has changed all over.

If you want to look dreamy and stunning at the same time, then you have to hire a pro for the makeup. The spotlight and attention have been always on the bride on this D-Day and thus we have to make sure that the makeup, dress, hair and everything is just next to flawless. Also, you don’t want to look back and see the flawed makeup, obviously. . If you are in Kolkata and looking for a makeup artist, this post is just for you. So, here’s the compilation of the top 5 bridal makeup artists of Kolkata.

1. Aniruddha Chakladar

Aniruddha Chakladar is one of the renowned makeup artists in Kolkata. If you want to him for the D-Day, you have to book at least a year and a half in advance. He has been in this field for more than 20years and worked with various celebrities as well. He has the ability to highlight the best features and conceptualizes the entire look. His signature look is the kohl clad eyes and subtle lips for the typical Bengali bride. He operates mainly from his studio, located conveniently near Gariahat.

Contact No: +91 98300 39699, +91 332440 3513

Email: anichakladar@gmail.com

Address: 8/13 Fern Road, Kolkata – 700019 West Bengal, India

Package – Rs. 12,000+ (approx.)

2. Nabin Das

He is another well-known makeup artist in Kolkata and also a busy professional and hence it is best to book him at least a year in advance. His specialty is deep kohl eyes and red lips – which is slightly conventional but he makes it look like a dream! He has done various bridal and fashion photo sessions as well and every makeup look is mastered by him. He mainly works from his studio, which is located in the hub of Kolkata. His brushes bring out the best features of any woman smoothly and give her the perfect, poised look.

Website: http://www.nabindas.com/bridal.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nabin.das.75

Page FB: https://www.facebook.com/nabindasmakeup/

Contact No: +91-9831233618/ 9831033618

Address: 5/246 Gandhi Colony, Mina Para Road, Kolkata – 700080

Studio: 166c/6/7 Lake Gardens .Near Lord’s More, Allahabad Bank

Package – Price on request

3. Abhijit Chanda

Abhijit Chanda is a young professional makeup artist from Kolkata and quite a renowned one in the fashion and film industry. His forte is bridal makeup and not just the typical bridal looks, but also the conventional bridal makeup as well. You can also opt for paid trials before booking him for your D-day. If you want to get an appointment during the busy wedding season, you have to make sure to get your appointment early. His bridal make-up package consists of make-up, hairdo and saree draping. He works from the studio as well as comfortable in taking the outstation assignments. He mainly focuses on subtle shades and natural beauty of the bride.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abhijit.chanda1

Contact No: 91-9830688890

Package – Rs, 30,000+ (approx.)

4. Arpita Ganguly

Another well known makeup artist in the Tollywood industry, Arpita Ganguly has eight years of bridal makeup experience and she has been trained under some of the best makeup artists in the country namely Cory Walia, Jawed Habib and others. She believes that blending is the most important step in makeup and she always tries to bring out the beauty and character from the most common faces through colors. The major advantage that this MUA has is that she works indoor, outdoor as well as outstation. However, you have to book her in advance. She is also well versed in unconventional non-Bengali bridal make-up.

Contact: Hair & Beauty family Salon

Address: 25/9, Hospital Road, Kalikapur, Kol – 700078

P. Anwer Shah Bypass Connector, Bus Stop Prince Park

Contact No: +91 9748275583

Package – Rs. 10,500(approx.)

5. Ujjwal Debnath

Ujjwal Debnath is a young and popular bridal makeup artists, hailing from Kolkata. Traditional Bengali bridal make-up is Debnath’s forte and he always keeps the eye makeup stunning and tally with the lip color. Ujjwal regularly engages himself in both bridal make-up, as well as photoshoots. He has received promising reviews from his clients and their friends. Make sure you book him keeping at least 6-8 months in hand.

Contact No: +91 9732135269

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ujjwalmakeup/

Package – Rs. 15,000+ (approx.)

Editor’s Note: That’s a really helpful list with all details Sanchita.

Have you tried any of these MUA’s? If you would like to add any, do leave them in the comments below.

Top Natural Skin, Hair and Body Care Brands in India

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Top Natural Skin, Hair and Body Care Brands in India

By Nidhal

Tossing away all those chemical-laden cocktails into the trash seems a herculean task given the paucity of alternatives at hand at present, isn’t it? Not anymore. You do not have to repine anymore for there are some niche brands that are not just environment-friendly in their approach but also cent per cent transparent about the ingredients’ list of each and every product of theirs. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it?

No need to glower at your high-end chemical-laden product anymore for burning a hole in your pocket and not throwing any commendable results for here you go with a list of Indian brands- all of which sell via Amazon India, that are not just safe for topical application but also budget-friendly.

1. MAHAGRO – A small but incredulously devoted team based out of Hyderabad, MahaGro may have entered the natural skin, hair and body care market recently (2012) but earns a thumbs up from one and all thanks to their nourishing all-natural, chemical-free, preservative-free, artificial-fragrance- free and cruelty-free products.

Offering not just beauty products (like- herbal bath powder, pimple pack, face pack, hair wash powder, etc.) but also ingredients that can be used to whip one’s own recipes (like orange peel powder, tulsi powder, etc.), their products don’t cost an arm and a leg if you’re contemplating adding the same to your shopping carts. Owned by the obliging Krishna Karthik, they are about to launch herbal soaps and shampoos soon in addition to shipping products PAN India.

My vote of approval goes to the following products-

(a) Herbal bath powder- Enriched with the benefits of myriad herbs in dried form with a lingering aroma of camphor predominantly, Mahagro’s herbal bath powder makes for an efficacious face pack too in addition to being a bath powder. Ideal for use in summers when the mercury rises to unprecedented levels, it cools one’s skin instantly, thereby soothing it.

Price- 179/- INR for 200g (Buy HERE)

(b) Herbal hair wash powder- To those who are fond of giving a wide berth to chemical-laden hair masks/packs, Mahagro’s herbal wash powder is of use. Composed of only dried herbs and leaves sans any chemical preservatives, teaming it with one’s base ingredient of choice say- coconut milk, would work wonders for one’s mane. Regular use will obviously throw much more flattering results vis-à- vis a single use.

Price- 179/- INR for 200g (Buy HERE)

2. TARIKA AYURLABS- The picture-postcard Pondicherry (called Pondy by the locals) gives one’s eyes not just sights to behold but also one’s skin and hair, oodles of unadulterated nourishment through a brand that targets beauty woes through the ancient Indian science- Ayurveda. Not even 1% of the composition of any of their 100% natural, vegan, cruelty-free and chemical-free products contain any nasties that’d compel you to grimace.

Crafting a wholesome combo of products, ranging from hair oils, face serums, face masks to face scrubs, each product impresses with its unique composition. From offering products that seek to address the woes of aging, pimples/spots, foul body odour, excess hair fall to having lacklustre skin, they offer beauty combos that work wonders in allaying the same with regular use.

I would recommend Tarika’s daily facial sandal face mask as well as night oil for face (saffron) to all those whose skin loses its lustre and glow thanks to the barrage of chemical-laden cocktails we pour on ourselves daily in a bid to get the same. A little goes a long way that’s what I realised after using both the gems! Versatile enough to be blended with raw milk and neem decoction, the mask suits every skin type, leaving your skin inherently cleansed and nourished NATURALLY.

The cherry on the cake is Tarika Night oil for face (saffron). The aroma is ethereal, heavenly…a sort of aphrodisiac, taking your olfactory senses to a ride. Upon applying, with a little massage, it blends in with one’s skin easily. Sleep with it for within a few days, you will wake up with skin that looks restored to life. Let’s be rational- one or two uses won’t throw wondrous results. Given the kind of environs we inhabit, we need to be persistent in application. And if we are, the beauty combo from Tarika Ayurlabs leaves you chuffed.

PRICE-

Daily Sandale Beauty Mask: INR 480 for 50g (Buy HERE)

Night Oil for Face Saffron: INR 695 for 30ml (Buy HERE)

3. ISHAAN ENTERPRISES: RAYAAN HERBALS- Based out of Hyderabad, this all-natural venture helmed by Mrs. Reshma Thakur believes in giving a wide berth to chemical preservatives. Incepted in 2013 with a vision to craft exquisite skin, hair and body care products sans any hogwash (read: chemicals), Rayaan Herbals (the brand) that comes under Ishaan Enterprises (the company) came to the rescue of all those fraught with seeing chemical-laden products inundate markets! With an expanding range that seeks to cater to varying needs of its customers, if you are at the sea, don’t repine for you can touch base with them (Facebook) and get products tailor-made to suit your needs. Another feather in their cap is that they manufacture the products themselves so every facet is scrutinised to the backbone.

Coming from raw parts of a plant say- stems, flowers, roots, leaves, etc. their herbal products are intricate mixes of herbs. In my humble opinion, one should give a shot to their Hair shining pack. A natural fix for those whose locks look lustreless and drained off gloss, mixing it with the base ingredient that’s most compatible with one’s locks will ensure that it packs a punch at other hair woes too like- lack of softness, brittleness, etc. Dedicated use overtime will surely leave one with more thunderous results than single/two-time uses. It performs to a great extent on what it claims, however, do not get dispirited within a few uses for everyone’s hair condition differs and depending on how damaged one’s locks are, it will work.

PRICE- 550/- INR for 100g (Buy HERE)

4. IRAYA- ‘From the earth’ as is meant by its name in Sanskrit, Iraya- based out of Ahmedabad brings forth to our notice, the bountifulness of nature, which when harnessed ethically nourishes us to the backbone. Without elaborating much on what all the brand offers (Because we all know that! Iraya is a established name. One needs to be living under the rock to be unaware of it), what the USP of Iraya is to me, is that they not just ferret out the most esoteric herbs and blend them to concoct nourishing skin treats but also name their products in a way that is strongly reminiscent of the days when people relied on Ayurveda and natural remedies to tend to her beauty woes instead of store-bought products.

The product I recommend is the Kantivardhak Lepa which does justice to its name- imparts a winsome glow (Kanti) to my face and neck within a few applications without stinging it. Versatile enough to be blended with as many base ingredients (such as- curd, buttermilk, rose water, etc.) as you can come up with, it gets my vote of approval. I find it apt for use by all skin types. Slough it gently while removing to aid the process of scrubbing. Wouldn’t that be equivalent to saying that we are getting the best of both worlds- scrubbing as well as getting a glow? Yes, it surely would be.

PRICE- 445/- INR for 50g (Buy HERE)

5. RAW RITUALS- Handcrafting taken seriously- that’s how I delineate Raw Rituals. Based out of Ahmedabad, this organic skin and hair care venture is helmed by the warm and welcoming Mrs. Lovina Aggarwal and makes no about doing everything manually be it- boiling, whipping, blending, packaging, or designing. If that’s insufficient then, they have all the feathers in their cap to sweep you off your feet- cruelty-free, organic, preservative-free and cent per cent transparent about the ingredients added.

Offering lip balms, face packs, face scrubs, hair oils, body massage oils, face serums and cold-pressed soap- all free from chemicals, there is no reason why Raw Rituals doesn’t deserve a place on our list. I would recommend Raw Rituals’ peppermint and orange lip butter to all those looking to soothe their perennially dry lips that yearn for all the more moisturisation as the mercury goes down. The USP is that it is colourless, thus apt for use by men/boys too. The subtle aroma is capable of sending you into a tizzy thanks to peppermint essential oil which it is replete with.

Read the reviews of the orange lip butter HERE and their Ethereal Face Serum HERE

PRICE- 150/- INR (Buy HERE)

Editor’s Note: That’s quite an interesting list Nidhal. I have tried and loved Iraya. Tarika sounds pretty interesting and I would love to try that!

Have you tried any of these natural brands? Your favourite natural brand and product?

7 Exercises To Get a Flat Tummy

Fitness, Health, How To, Lifestyle, Top 5, Women, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

7 Exercises To Get a Flat Tummy

By Nidhal

Having a flat and taut tummy is one such accessory that grabs eyeballs instantly. Be it a figure-hugging one-piece or the graceful 9-yards (read: saree), a flat tummy is the ideal finishing touch to any attire. Not only does it manifest that one takes her body and its appearance seriously but also is a mark of proper upkeep. Keeping in mind that life these days is fraught with stress and unhealthy diet (envisage as many insalubrious food items you stoked in to your system right now… Yes, I know guilt would be knocking you down now), here is a brief rundown of 7 easy exercises that you can incorporate in your daily fitness regimen to kick that flab off your body!

1. CRUNCHES– Crunches help one tone and tighten the muscles in the stomach and you do not need any sophisticated equipment to get going too! Just flat on the ground and wake up- it is as simple as that. However, the key is to wake up while keeping your entire body (from your head to the waist) straight (as if in a line) and focus on an object (say the ceiling). DO NOT bend your head/neck. It will undermine your entire posture. 15 reps is a good enough number for a novice.

2. SIDE PLANKS- Planks are one of the best exercises for a flat, toned stomach because they work on all the muscles in your core. To do so, all you need to do is, lie on your left side with your knees straight. Raise your body up on your left elbow and forearm, feet stacked. Raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from your ankles to your shoulders. Hold this position for half a minute. That’s one rep. 10 reps are good for a beginner. Increase the frequency and duration as you get habituated with it.

3. MOGUL JUMP- Mogul jumps give one’s hips, abs and back muscles a strenuous workout which helps one kick fat promptly. To perform the Mogul jump, raise your knees a few inches off the floor while keeping your hands and feet in their position. Make a jumping movement, shifting your feet to the left. Then, similarly jump them to the right. During this ensure that your feet stay together.

4. BURPEES- Burpees set a lot of muscles to work in our body which helps one lose fat from the belly swiftly. To do this exercise, stand up straight with your legs apart about shoulder-width. Start lowering your body till your palms lie flat on the floor, the same width apart as your legs. Kick your legs out from under you in backward direction so you are in a position to perform push-ups. Do a single push up and pull your legs back. Then, stand back up with a jump, and repeat the whole exercise. That’s it, wasn’t it cushy?

5. ELBOW PLANK- The elbow plank is a slight variation of the simple plank. All you need to do is now balance on the part of your hand extending from the elbows to the fingers. Do not let your hips or abdomen droop. Hold the position for half a minute and there goes one rep!

6. THE V-HOLD- The simplest of all the exercises so far- the V-Hold requires you to lie down on your back while placing your hands under your butt for leverage. Lift back and legs off ground. Hold “V” position for 15 to 30 seconds.

7. THE WINDMILL EXERCISE- The windmill exercise targets the oblique(meaning side) abs. To perform it, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Hold a kettle-bell (any bearable weight) in your left hand. bring the weight onto your left shoulder and press it overhead. While you rotate your chest to the left, you need to look at your kettle-bell (or any weight that you may have opted for) as you reach your right foot with your right hand. Pause for half a minute and revert to your former self. You have perfected the exercise, lady!

Image Sources: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7

Editor’s Note: Again a fabulous and useful compilation Nidhal

Do you do these exercises? Have any to add, do let us know in the comments below

My Top Favourite Blushes

Blush, Makeup, Smartphone, Top 5, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

My Top Favourite Blushes

Hi guys,

Today I am listing my top favourite blushes, 5 out of 6 are matte and perfect for day time. Only the Jordana one has shimmer but that is not much visible on the skin.

Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush in Peachy Sweetie

It’s a light dusty rose pink and completely matte. The most affordable blush in the market and is pigmented enough! I recommend this to everyone, even if you are not a blush person and would like to own just one and not invest much in it, you can try this.

L’Oreal Paris Lucent Magique Blush of Light in Fuchsia Flush

Another super gorgeous hot pink shade! This is very bright and pigmented and you have to go with a very light hand when using this. It is priced at INR 850 but will last you forever. Absolutely love the packaging.

Marks & Spencer Limited Blusher in Damson

My go-to everyday blush, this is a light n*de mauve kind of shade, you can go lightly with this or layer for more intensity. The most natural looking blush I own

Jordana Blush in Sunlit Bronze

Again a very nice, everyday neutral shade. It’s a light brown with some shimmer. Very pigmented and use it with a light hand again as otherwise it might look muddy.

Sigma Blush in Cheeky

It’s a muted rosy brown shade, perfect for medium to fair skin tones.

MAC Bite of an Apple Blush

My most favourite blush ever, it’s a medium coral pink and looks beautiful on fair to medium skin tones. This will even show up well on deeper skin tones.

All the pictures in this post are clicked with the new Coolpad Mega Selfie Maker 2.5D! It has 8MP front camera and 8MP rear camera! I absolutely love the Royal Gold Color, and it is not at all heavy for 2500 mAh battery.

The pictures are vivid and true to colour! They have not been edited at all, only resized so that the post doesn’t take long to load. It is standard 5.5 inch screen and looks super stylish and expensive! 16GB internal memory and 3GB RAM, it supports dual 4G too.

This is the selfie I clicked with it, both a screenshot and the actual selfie.

It has Whiten, Smooth, Slim and Enlarge features for the front selfie camera. This is the Smooth effect.

It is priced very affordably at INR 6999 only!!! I can say this is the best budget smartphone I have come across! The sale starts on 24th August, you can register for it right now, go HERE

Do you like the pictures? What are your favourite blushes?

Top 7 Yoga Asanas for Healthy Hair

Fitness, Hair Care, Health, Top 10, Top 5, Women, Yoga, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Top 7 Yoga Asanas for Healthy Hair

By Nidhal

A healthy mane which is lustrous, glossy, satin smooth and manageable is what we all eye. Quite naturally, we look for ways to get what we desire. From application of herbal home remedies to intake of supplements, we it all at our disposal but somewhere down the line, physical workout misses out being in the picture and that is where we flunk.

We have already covered the Top Asanas for Glowing Skin.

So, in line with this thought, why not have a look at some Yoga asanas that leave one with cascading locks that we’ve always desired? 🙂 These Yoga asanas enhance hair growth in addition to ameliorating their texture and semblance. Let us check them out.

1. KAPALBHAATI-PRAANAYAAM- A highly soothing and revitalising asana offering a multitude of health benefits, Kapalbhaati-praanayaam literally translates to ‘skull shining’ exercise for it increases the amount of oxygen in the body which imparts glow to one’s skin. It also helps to give one’s scalp all the oxygen it needs to rejuvenate damaged hair and helps it grow. Start with 20 breaths per set a day and increase its frequency as you gain confidence and strength with each day 🙂

2. SARVAANGA-ASANA- An easy asana that helps to purify blood and optimise the functioning of the thyroid gland, Sarvaanga-asana helps to improve the length, thickness, texture and girth of hair. Gorgeous mane, did I hear you say that? Hold the position for 30-45 seconds in each set and gradually increase the duration to 1-1.5 minutes as you acquaint yourself with the asana.

3. SHIRSH-ASANA- Quite challenging and daunting as it may seem, but if mastered, Shirsh-asana is a sure-shot way to ensure long-term health and vitality. Hair loss, greying of hair and baldness are often caused due to poor blood circulation in the scalp. Shirs-asana not only directs enriched blood to the brain, but also sends it to the scalp. The transforming of grey hair into its original colour and good growth of hair is possible through the practice of this headstand pose.

4. PASCHIM-OTTAAN- ASANA- The seated forward bend pose aka Paschim-ottan- asana helps to stimulate kidneys, liver, uterus and enhances blood circulation in the body which further enhances hair growth due to better oxygen intake. It also relieves one off stress, anxiety and a host of minor headache issues.

5. SHASHAANG-ASANA- Also called the “rabbit pose” for it makes one resemble a rabbit’s structure, Shashaan-asana is what you need to incorporate in your daily workout regimen if flaunting shiny and lustrous tresses is on your “To Do” list. Performing this asana daily for 15 minutes (30 seconds for each set) will improve blood flow to your scalp, thereby bringing more oxygen to it and leaving you with glossy locks in no time, however, the key is to be patient and persistent no matter what 🙂

6. VAJRA-ASANA- Widely known as the ‘diamond pose’, Vajrasana enhances the supply of energy and blood to the upper part of our body. Besides accelerating the rate of hair growth, it also helps in correcting ones back posture.

7. ADHO-MUKH- ASANA- Not only does Adho-mukh- asana acts as a major stress buster, it even helps in stimulating the flow of blood to the head, and thereby accelerating hair re-growth. One set should last for roughly 30-40 seconds. Begin with 5 sets a day and increase its frequency as you get accustomed to it 🙂

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

Editor’s Note: This is a fabulous post Nidhal. I am surely going to try some, we all need a little yoga and flexibility in life.

Do you do yoga and/or any of these asanas already?