Illamasqua Matte Lip Liquid Surrender, Exotic Review, Swatches

Illamasqua Matte Lip Liquid Surrender, Exotic Review, Swatches

Illamasqua Matte Lip Liquid Surrender, Exotic Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: Long lasting, highly pigmented Lip Liquid with intense matte colour finish. Glides on as liquid and dries to an intense matte colour. Neither a lipstick or a gloss, visit our Artist Tips tab to discover how to apply.

MRP: £18.50 for 4ml / 0.14 FL OZ (Approx Rs.1875/-)

Tips: It is a long lasting, highly pigmented Lip Liquid with intense colour finish. Provides a comfortable matte finish, and provides continuous wear without flaking or dryness. Remove excess product from the applicator and apply a thin layer onto clean moisturised lips. Let it dry for 60 seconds before blotting your lips together, apply a second thin layer again leaving 60 seconds to dry.

Key Benefits:
1. Contains moisturising vitamin E.
2. Long lasting and highly pigmented.

Application: Apply directly or with an Illamasqua brush.

Try the Exotic with our innovative formula in vivid orange. Surrender to our innovative formula in warm peach.

So the new Matte Lip Liquid launched by Illamasqua is nothing but a matte liquid lipstick..on the lines of Lime Crime Velvetines, Sleek MakeUP Matte Me, etc..

It comes in a normal long slender tube packaging..just like the Illamasqua gloss..and has a brush applicator interestingly.

Exotic is indeed a bright vivid orange as described.Surrender is a super pale peach (not at all meant for our skin tones, totally washes out..I think it would suit NC 15-20 more with strong smokey eyes.) And there is one shade in this range Forbidden which is a bright lavender pink.

In the tips, they mention to apply a thin layer, wait for 60 seconds, blot and then apply a second thin layer. That is the technique one needs to follow ! If you try to apply much in one shot or feel like covering one area opaque first, it might not work.

It is super pigmented..and in 2 thin layers, once dry, you get the perfect opaque color ! And once set, it does not budge at all..unless you eat something oily or greasy which makes it slip. And let me tell you, it needs exfoliated lips and still it will end up settling in your lip lines..and gives a completely matte look. But, it does not feel that your lips are parched or dry, gives some hydration too, at the same time. And you need a good makeup remover to remove it completely.

T- Exotic, B- Surrender

How I use it: I do not wear Surrender much for obvious reasons..totally washes me out. Exotic how I wear is, I apply a thin single layer. Let it dry and follow up with a lighter, warmer orangey or coral lipstick/lipgloss. Though I do not get that matte look, but the color stays for a long long time..and also makes it more wearable for me. Plus does not emphasize my fine lines too..so I get the color + staying power + no fine lines !

When compared with the Sleek MakeUP Matte Me (which I have in Rioja Red), these stay on longer, but formula wise I prefer Matte Me coz they are not gloopy.

Pros:

1. Is completely matte but lips still feel hydrated.

2. Quite pigmented..gives an opaque coverage.

3. Does not budge once set..stays put whole day.

4. Colors are quite unique..and not something you will find a dupe of, easily.

5. Can be layered with another lipstick/lip gloss.

6. With the qty you require with this, 4 ml is going to last forever.

Cons:

1. Needs exfoliated lips, but does accentuate fine lines.

2. Layering gets gloopy at times..you need to remove the whole thing and apply it afresh,if wearing for a longer duration.

3. Expensive and available online only.

Overall, I would say, if you are someone who loves matte lips, you are going to love this ! Its a must have for them. I am not a fan of matte lips..but I do like long staying and comfortable lipsticks. I love Exotic and love layering it with different oranges/corals I have..gives me a new color every time..and stays for a long time too. Definitely recommended for matte lip lovers. I would loved a bright red, bright fuchsia, etc to in this range 😀

You can buy it HERE

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.75/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Yes..especially if more shades are introduced.

Have you checked out/tried the new Illamasqua Matte Lip Liquid ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Za True White Day Protector Review

ZA True White Day Protector SPF26 PA++ Review

ZA (pronounced as zi:ei) True White features three best whitening ingredients – Revolutionary 4MSK Formula penetrates deep within the skin to diminish the formation of excessive melanin, reduce blemishes & dark spots that are visible on the surface giving an even-toned radiance.

Vitamin C Complex with a potent combination of APM (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) and VC-IP (Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate) lightens the deep rooted melanin pigments to restore skin’s translucence.

The range is enriched with exclusive SPA ingredients like Natural Spring Water from the foothills of Mount Cazzaro in Tuscany, Italy, Trehalose and White Lily extract to give unparalleled moisture to the skin. Its Prism Enhancer System removes unwanted dead corneal cells and allows for maximum diffusion of light on the skin’s surface making it radiant with brightness.

What the Company claims: Provides comfortable, light-weight yet strong protection against UV rays at daily base. Helps diminish spots and acne marks at the same time. Minimizes the appearance of visible melanin accumulation. Veils skin with a bright, pearly radiance that enhances skin tone for a healthy look.

MRP: Rs.799/- for 35g

Ingredients:

ZA True White Range is based on the new research by the Shiseido skin care team called the  Revolutionary 4MSK Formula where they have combined three best whitening ingredients..

It comes in a slender tube packaging with a small nozzle to get just the right qty for your face and neck.

Its not runny but neither thick..and quiet light in texture and easily blendable. It sinks into your skin. I have a combination skin and did not find it too rich or greasy..it is just about perfect.

Oily skin may require touch up on their T-zone after 2-3 hours..I did not face much of those issues..

It has a light baby powder kinda smell..does’nt stay long and not bothering. I am using this from about 3 weeks..and I do see lightning of my 1-2 acne scars which I had. Though it has SPF26 PA++, its not sufficient and I need to layer it with a separate sunscreen. I wish it had more sun protection..coz its after all a Day Protector.

But, I like the fact that it has both Vitamin C and E along with some other added minerals..Vitamin E helps in fading scar marks and Vitamin C too, to a certain extent. So a combination of too, is like very good in helping the skin regenerate and heal marks faster.

I have not tried the ZA True White Day Cream..but from the reviews I have read, that is more lighter and more suitable for oily. But, if you have normal to dry skin, you can go with the ZA True White Day Cream. Plus this tube packaging is easier to carry.

Pros:

1. Easy to carry tube packaging.

2. Dispenses right amount of product.

3. More hygienic than tub packaging.

4. Is light in texture and absorbs and sinks easily.

5. Helps fade acne marks and skin appears more even toned with gradual use.

6. Has a blend of Vitamin C, Vitamin E,  Minerals and Shiseido’s Revolutionary 4MSK Formula.

7. A little goes a long way..35g is going to last a long time ! I think the price is worth it..and its better priced than Shiseido’s other skin care ranges.

8. Has SPF26 PA++

Cons:

1. Not easily available.

2. Oily skin may need touch up for T-zone after 2-3 hours.

I don’t think I can think of any other cons..I quite liked it and using it regularly from the last 3 weeks. Can already see some difference in the skin. Would definitely recommend the ZA True White Day Protector.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you tried Za True White Day Protector ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Treatment and Range Review

Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Treatment and Range Review

If you remember my #MakingUpWithMatrix posts on my facebook, twitter and Instagram, I had gone for this Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Treatment at the Matrix Hair Academy. And later on, I was using this range to see the difference.

I was attended by Faiyaz Shaikh– Asst. Manager, Artistic at Matrix.

About the Fiberstrong range: BIOLAGE Advance FIBERSTRONG is the next generation of hair care from MATRIX that offers anti-hair fall hair products & services specially formulated to tackle weak, fragile and brittle hair.

Fiberstrong combines the goodness of Nature with BAMBOO and the power of Molecular Science with INTRA-CYLANE to give 95% less hair breakage in just 1 application. Bamboo passes on its strength to the hair promoting the elasticity of hair strands. Intra-cylane, an exclusive patented molecule, helps fill in the gaps and seals cuticles to reduce breakage. These indulgent ingredients help in creating a structural reinforcement system to strengthen weakened hair cuticles as they condition the hair for ultra -soft & smooth results.

It claims to have the power of Intra-Cylane and Bamboo extracts which gives 12 x stronger hair. Its a hair strengthening treatment against hair breakage and hair fall. And also claims to help reduce hair breakage by 95% in one application.

Step 1: At first, the hair is checked, by pulling one strand of your hair. If it goes back to its position and has elasticity and is strong enough. Upon that, its decided which stage of treatment your hair requires.

There are 3 stages:

Stage 1: Normal hair..not much breakage

Stage 2: Hair does not have enough elasticity and is prone to hair breakage

Stage 3: Damaged hair..breaks and falls easily.

Thankfully, I was falling under Stage 1, but Faiyaz said he would give the Stage 2 treatment so that I can see the difference.

Step 2: Hair wash and conditioning with the Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner.

Step 3: Fiberstrong Intra-Cylane Concentrate is applied on every section of hair.

Step 4: Fiberstrong Strengthening Masque is applied.

Step 6 and 7: Hair is rinsed and towel dried.

Step 8 : He applied Fiberstrong Strengthening Leave-in-cream and blow dried..and finished with few drops of Matrix Biolage Serum for shine.

This treatment is to be followed by using the Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Strengthening Shampoo, Conditioner and leave-in-cream at home. Faiyaz made me feel my hair and I could definitely feel the difference.

For Stage 3 hair, special Aminexil ampules are used which anchor the roots and prevent hair fall.

The treatment costs anywhere between Rs.600- to Rs.1500/- depending on the hair damage stage and the salon. Its available in all salons which house Matrix services and products. Find a salon near you HERE

The products used..shampoo, conditioner, masque, leave-in-cream,serum and the intra-cylane concentrate.

And here is my before-after..

A front after shot..why break up when you can make up 😀

Coming to the Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Strengthening shampoo and conditioner I was using later on..

Shampoo claims and usage:

MRP: Rs.270/- for 200ml, Rs.485/- for 400ml

Ingredients:

Conditioner claims and usage:

MRP: Rs220/- for 98g, Rs.380/- for 196g

Ingredients:

I like the packaging in gray and green…the shampoo foams well and cleanses hair well..I normally see hair falling during shampooing too..but with this range, the hair fall during shampooing was very less.

The conditioner is not very creamy and moisturising..its light in texture and easy to use and rinses off easily since not very rich.

I see volume and strength in my hair and less hair fall too, but my hair is not soft and smooth which I generally prefer. Maybe its coz  of the conditioner, I do like the shampoo though. I would recommend this range for fine,limp hair which faces a lot of hair fall.

If you have tried many hair fall shampoos and conditioners and nothing has worked for you, give this range a try ! I am sure you will not regret. And also try and include the Intra-Cylane strengthening leave-in-Cream with it. I have not used that..but that would give better results together.

The Fiberstrong Treatment is surely worth a try..and at that price, its quiet worth it too..your hair does need some strengthening apart from the regular haircuts and styling !

Read more about the range on the Matrix India site HERE

Have you tried the Matrix Biolage Advanced Fiberstrong Treatment or Range ? 

P.S: I was offered the service and products for review, but it has not affected my opinion.

Zarop International Giveaway: Pick whatever you like!

Zarop International Giveaway: Pick whatever you like!

Hey guys, I am back with a giveaway..this time you get a choice to pick whatever you want from Zarop’s sale section. Zarop.com has free shipping worldwide..so not to worry !

There will be one winner..and she gets to choose anything from http://www.zarop.com/flash_sale.html.

What you need to do :

1. Like Zarop’s facebook page.

2. Like our facebook page () and subscribe to our newsletter.

3. Go to the link here http://www.zarop.com/flash_sale.html and select anything you like and comment on that product url with your facebook account in the ‘Leave a comment’ section below.

Fill all the details in the Rafflecopter widget here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The giveaway starts today and ends after 7 days on 16th June. Open internationally.

Good Luck 🙂

OOTD: Black Sequin Collar Shirt, Striped Puff Skirt

OOTD: Black Sequin Collar Shirt, Striped Puff Skirt

Hey guys,

I am back with an OOTD..I love skirts and I love stripes…and this black and white striped puff skirt is one of my favorites! How cute is it..the puff totally adds to its cuteness.

I paired it with a black sleeveless shirt with black sequin work on the collar..it extends till the back. So adds to the oomph of this shirt ! And this shirt goes with so many of my outfits..I think you can’t wrong with a basic black or white shirt..you would have tons of combinations to pair them with (exaggerated..but 5-6 minimum :D) Monochrome works for me always.

Its good for both formal and casual wear..you can transition from day to night with some changes with this kind of outfit.  (You can change the shoes to chic pumps) Whether a formal brunch or a fun meet with your girlfriends, this look totally works.

I kept accessories minimal with only pearl studs and my favorite Daniel Wellington watch. Looks classier and elegant this way. And since the collar is already sequin embellished, you do not need any statement necklace..the collar itself is a highlight. I went with these super sexy spiked T- strap white block heels. And a red lipstick to finish off.

I love you all <3

Btw, this top is from Possimus..and I hauled a bit from there..I loved some of their pieces..quiet eclectic and different.

About Possimus: Possimus.in is an online store that strives to cater to the fashionable needs of fashionable young women in India. It is a new e-tail venture based in India.Through its collaboration with indie European brands to small and artsy local stores, Possimus.in offers the almost perfect mix for the editorial, quirky and street stylish to those who have no qualms about strutting high fashion on desi streets.If you are that offbeat girl with a high style quotient and a quirky sense of fashion, you know you’re at home at Possimus.in. Check out their facebook and twitter here:

Top: Possimus
Skirt: Romwe
Watch: Daniel Wellington
Shoes : HERE
Pearl Studs: Aldo

On lips: L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick in Flaming Kiss

It is one of my favorite looks..do let me know your thoughts. Did you like the look ?

Avene Very High Protection SPF50+ Spray Review

Avene Very High Protection SPF50+ Spray Review

What the Company claims: Ideal balance between pleasure and security – Fulfills all demands: Efficacy, quality, pleasure in use and reliability – Benefits from an exclusive combination of actives, “SunSitive Protection®”, a product of Pierre Fabre Group Research:

*A complementary and synergistic photoprotective active complex, guaranteeing minimum chemical filters in our formulas.

* Pre-tocopheryl, a photostable Vitamin E precursor, gives additional cell protection.

*Avène Thermal Spring Water with natural soothing and anti-irritating properties.

*Light and no greasy texture : invisible, non-oily texture for particularly pleasant application. – 98% protection in 4hrs – No white effect

Broad UVA and UVB protection

MRP: Rs.2050/- for 200ml

How to use it:

  1. 30 minutes before exposure, apply uniformly and in sufficient quantity
  2. Reapply frequently in case of prolonged exposure, and after swimming.
  3. Using this product should not encourage the user to prolong sun exposure.
  4. Avoid exposure between midday and 4pm (maximal sunshine)
  5. Avoid solar exposure for child between 0 and 3 years
  6. Use clothing protection

Ingredients:

A sunscreen in a spray bottle..I have tried the Lotus SPF50 Spray before and it was my HG. I loved it a lot..so I was expecting this to fare well too.

Coming to the packaging, I love the bright orange packaging..and the cap shuts tight..the spray is good enough..but takes a lot of sprays to cover one part of the body too.

It has a milky kind of texture and is quite runny..you cannot assume the qty you are using since they are just sprayed and you would never realise..if its the 1/4 th teaspoon rule of sunscreen for face and neck each..and 1/2 teaspoon per arm, coz you just spray and blend.

Also, it is not completely light and does give a shiny look to the face..and leaves a whitish cast too. Needs lot of powdering. I mostly use it for arms and legs..and very rarely at times for face.

The main test of it was when I went for the Beauty and The Blogger show. I was carrying this with me..and the previous day after seeing the shoot in the sun and getting burned, the next day I made sure I went to my room especially to apply sunscreen on my arms and legs. I used it all over my hands and legs, could’nt use it on the face as the makeup was done..and somehow I forgot my neck :whyy: :pullshair:

I was out in the scorching sun from 11 to 3-3.30 directly under the sun with no protection whatsoever and we were literally burning all over. My hands and legs got 2 shades darker but my neck got burnt badly and it got 4-5 shades darker! So, thankfully, even though I did not reapply and do not know if I covered each and every area well with enough sunscreen, my hands and legs were somewhat saved coz of this ! I get tanned very very easily..and I have been cursing myself a lot for forgetting my neck 🙁 Still do and would do so for months, till the tan goes away completely..looks difficult :/

Thats one spray qty

I do like the fact that is has broad UVA and UVB protection and offers SPF50+ though..not that we need it regularly..but times as such, we definitely do!

Pros:

1. Did not clog pores or sweat me out.

2. Has thermal spring water and beneficial sunscreen actives.

3. SPF50+

4. Helped my skin from getting burned or severely tanned.

5. Nice bright packaging and cap shuts tight.

6. Claims to give very high protection against the sun.

Cons:

1. Not very travel friendly..a little bulky and I do not see a smaller version of it.

2. Does give some shine..and a whitish cast.

3. Very expensive!

Overall, I would say, if you are someone who stays out in the sun for a long time and need very high protection or you get tanned easily like me, this is the only savior! Definitely required for us! But if you have oily skin or do not stay out much in the sun anyways, you can do with your normal sunscreen and skip this.

It also comes in emulsion and cream form..I have not tried those. But considering the very high protection calimed and a savior against tanning, I would say try those too and go for either one whichever you are comfortable with.

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Maybe..not very sure considering the heavy price tag!

Have you tried Avene Very High Protection Spray SPF50+ ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

The Mumbai Bride Diaries: 6 Months to Go!

The Mumbai Bride Diaries: 6 Months to Go!

Ok..so if you are new to this blog, please check all the bridal diaries posts HERE. My engagement pictures,outfit, jewellery,mehendi, etc I had shared with you all before. And Now, coming to the wedding!

Guys, I am getting married in exactly 6 months from now!!!

I have just started the normal trousseau shopping like some stuff from here and there..not proper proper shopping yet.

Things I am done with:

  • Hall for the wedding is booked (1st and most important thing. I needed a weekend and did not get a Sunday..so finally booked a Saturday)
  • Booked the makeup artist! (Main thing again :D) (But, a trial is left)
  • Booked the mehendi wali
  • Selected, tried and booked the jewellery
  • Got my wedding shoes :p

Things I need to do:

  • Start proper trousseau shopping
  • Get my wedding Gharchoda and Panetar (We Gujuratis have to wear a gharchoda and panetar for the wedding)
  • Lose weight :/ 🙁 Basically, need a fitness regime in place.
  • Honeymoon bookings
  • Find and book a good photographer (Need both normal and candid) Also, planning a pre wedding shoot.
  • Get a good dupatta and bangles including the white chooda from Mama’s side
  • Get a good Sari for the Morning Puja (Mandva)
  • Get a gown/lehenga or anything I fancy for the DJ cum Sangeet cum Mehendi which is 2 days prior to the wedding and all the accessories for that.

Of course, there would be designing the wedding cars and parlor bookings, a skin care regime and what not..I guess a wedding involves innumerable things..as and when you feel you are almost through, you realise that you totally forgot something..and it goes on and on.

So, I am starting with this Bridal Diaries again, coz it would also help me keep a track of things. And at the same time, I can share a few things on this journey with you all.

All of you who are married/newly married/going to be married, please share your additions/tips/feedback..everything is welcome 🙂

The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil Review

The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil Review

What the Company claims: Wake up to beautiful skin with new Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil, a technical innovation combining the power of a serum and oil to indulge, replenish and recharge skin with moisture overnight.

  • 8h beauty sleep for your skin
  • Skin feels recharged, replenished and softer
  • Skin looks fresher, rested and more radiant
  • Our highest concentration of wheatgerm oil
  • Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Emollient), Dicaprylyl Carbonate (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Triticum Vulgare Germ Oil/Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil (Emollient), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil/Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (Emollient), Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil/Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil/Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Glycine Soja Oil/Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (Emollient/Skin Conditioner), Parfum/Fragrance (Fragrance), Tocopheryl Acetate (Antioxidant), Benzyl Benzoate (Fragrance Ingredient), Geraniol (Fragrance Ingredient), Linalool (Fragrance Ingredient), Limonene (Fragrance Ingredient), Citronellol (Fragrance Ingredient), Benzyl Salicylate (Fragrance Ingredient), Eugenol (Fragrance Ingredient), Citral (Fragrance Ingredient), Anisyl Alcohol (Fragrance Ingredient), Citric Acid (pH Adjuster).

Directions: Apply a few drops in the palm of your hands and gently rub together to warm. Apply on the face and the neck with a gentle patting motion. Using fingertips, massage in small circular movements over forehead, cheeks, around mouth and chin area.

MRP: Rs.1695/- for 28ml

Ok so to start with, let me tell you, I loveee serums and oils…mostly use one every night, if at all, I am not trying out an overnight cream or something. (Which is rare these days..skin on a testing spree :/)

It comes in a small pink glass bottle with a dropper. The serum is transparent and clear..it feels like a very light oil. You just need 2-3 drops, blend in your hands and lightly apply over the face and neck.

It has a sweet fragrance..I am not too fond of perfumes and fragrance in my serums and oils unless it is a natural one like lavender essential oil. If you read the ingredients list above, you see many ingredients being used just for fragrance which I think could have been avoided.

Coming to the texture of it, it is so super light..sinks in the skin under a minute. No oiliness or greasiness. And the skin feels super soft and plump the next day. Vitamin E also helps in fading your acne marks,etc. If you have dry skin or dry patches, it will help you get rid of the patches within a week. Skin feels better and better every morning with regular use.

Pros:

1. Super light in texture.

2. Sinks in the skin and no oiliness or greasiness.

3. Skin feels super soft and plump the next morning…no dry patches.

4. Has a blend of oils in ingredients like wheatgerm, sweet almond, sunflower, jojoba, sesame and Vitamin E and glycerin which are all amazing for the skin.

5. You just need 2-3 drops, so 28ml would last a long time.

6. It may be slightly expensive but when compared to other serums in that category, its half their price.

Cons:

1. Glass bottle not travel friendly.

2. I would have liked it without the added fragrance ingredients.

Overall, I would say its quite nice and perfect for dry to normal skin..works for my combination skin too. Oily skin should try it in winters. I love how skin is more softer and smoother with it, the next morning..and also gets the dose of some hydrating oils in a serum form which is quite light on the skin. Recommended!

I also love the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate, but that it priced at Rs.2750/- for 30ml. If I have to choose one, I would go with Kiehl’s coz I like it a little bit more 😀 But I would definitely suggest trying out this Vitamin E Serum-in-Oil and if you are getting it at 20-30% off on sales, surely grab it!

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you tried The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-in-Oil? Any other overnight serums or oils ?

Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Face Wash Review

Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Face Wash Review

What the Company claims: A Paraben free formula which cleanses, scrubs, and provides whitening to your skin. The active used in this face wash is pure Ribose, a natural pentose obtained by biotechnology from corn seed sugars. It restores energy to the skin for a global anti-aging action. It has irregular-shaped granules which are soft enough to prevent scratches on the skin.

Direction for Use: Pour into palm and apply to thoroughly wet face. Work up lather. Rinse thoroughly.

MRP: Rs.395/- for 100ml

Key Ingredients:

It comes in a olive green colored tube packaging with a flip cap opening..it does’nt shut tight..but I have carried it during my travel and it did not spill or anything.

Its a light tinted blue gel like formula with soft blue minute granules..it foams decent. (not as much as the foaming cream face wash..I don’t like those anyways). The granules as claimed are super soft and not at all scratchy or abrasive.

It has a mix of ayurvedic cum bubblegum smell..kinda different..but not bothering as such. My skin feels super refreshed,soft and smooth after using this. Even though it has scrubbing granules, I do use it daily but not twice, just once a day. And there has’nt been any issues as such with it. The other time I use my trusted HG face wash Himalaya Neem.

It also helped me reduce my tan to a great extent..I am going to continue using it. I love how my skin feels with it..plus its paraben free and made of natural ingredients..so all the more good. Skin did not crave moisture after using this..but felt just right. Dry skin might need a moisturiser.

I only felt that it being a paraben free and natural brand, why only key ingredients are mentioned. This policy is only allowed in India which some brands are taking advantage of.

Pros:

1. Cleanses and scrubs as claimed..not sure of whitening, but helped with reducing the tan to a great extent.

2. Granules are very mild and soft and suitable for use everyday.

3. Paraben free and made of natural ingredients.

4. Skin feels super refreshed and soft after using this.

5. Right amount of moisture..skin does not feel dry with it.

Cons:

1. Slightly expensive..but I am using it from a long time and still a lot is left I guess..you don’t need much.

2. Availability is an issue..only available online right now.

3. Only key ingredients mentioned.

Overall, I would say, its one of the best face washes I have tried in a very long time..my skin feels amazing after using this. I cannot describe it in words but I am surely loving it..this one is a must have !! Highly recommended.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes!

Have you tried the Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Face Wash ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review.

Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual (Argan Facial) at Lakme Salon

My experience of the Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual (Argan Facial) at Lakme Salon

Moroccan Magic, Now for your skin

Discover the Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual, our new signature facial at your nearest Lakme salon.

As a woman, aging is something you battle every day of your life. And now on, you will be on the winning side.

For the first time in India, Lakme salon brings to you the remarkable goodness of Argan oil for your skin. It’s made from the kernels of the Argan tree fruit found in Morocco. Argan oil is enriched with high levels of cosmetic, therapeutic, hydrating and nutritious properties that help you fight against premature aging and the harsh UV rays.

Indulge in our magical Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual to rejuvenate your skin’s ageless glow. It helps your skin maintain the necessary levels of collagen, which diminishes due to age and the rough environmental conditions. It is also effective against aging, cell degeneration, skin inflammation, dryness and slight acne.

Book your appointment right away to experience the magic.

MRP: Rs.2700/-

Duration: 60 minutes

Know Lakme’s exclusive 3 step Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual:

1. DETOX

Gel cleanser (Lakme Professional Cleansing Gel) followed by an enzymatic based scrub for exfoliation (They use Christine Valmy Vegetal Peel– Bromelin, Papaya, Pineapple)

• A mixture of Lactic acid (Lakme Professional- contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids) along with other actives (Christine Valmy Special Cream 11) are mixed together and applied to desquamate cells and help better penetration.

• The skin is neutralized by a skin toner. (Lakme Professional)

2. REVIVE

• Pure Argan oil (Moroccanoil) is applied to the clean skin with gentle pressure point massage for 10 minutes followed by Gold peel off masque. (Lakme Professional-Lemon, cucumber, green tea, vitamin C)

• Skin instantly feels fresh, hydrated and nourished once the masque is peeled off.

• It’s later cleansed with a toner to remove the residues of the masque.

3. RENEW

•To finish the experience, few drops of the Argan oil is applied on the skin as a moisturizer, followed by Moisture Finish Vit E Suncreen. (Lakme Sunscreen)

I had gone for trying out this facial at the Lakme Salon, Bandra..and at first I was a little skeptic of argan oil on my face..but the procedure as a whole sounded good. The girl I was attended by, explained the whole treatment to me in detail. She told me its a hydrating facial and it repairs the skin..but that does not mean people with oily skin cannot go for this facial since it helps with Grade 1 acne too…only if you have too many pimples and Grade 3 acne, they would avoid doing this facial on you.

It helps in cell regeneration, improves skin’s elasticity and healing acne scars, etc making you skin more softer, clearer and supple.

At first, the skin was cleansed followed by a enzyme based vegetal peel. Then, lactic used mixed with Special Cream 11 is applied all over as a pack..there can be mild tingling here since the lactic acid has AHA’s. Its followed by a toner and Morocaanoil..which is massaged all over the face for better penetration..the 10 minutes massage for the head, face and neck is the best part here..deeply relaxing..I did bet you would sleep!

Then, a gold peel off masque is applied till it sets dry and is peeled off..followed at the end by few drops of Moroccanoil and sunscreen (for protection since your skin is peeled coz of lactic acid and AHA’s)

I saw my skin looked fresh and hydrated and there was a glow. But, the skin looked even more better after 1-2 days. The effect stays for a week or so. Also, the dead skin cells are gone, so you get rid of the tan too. I had gone for this service before..and now I am so tanned that I need it again 😀

Before- After

I am not sure if you can see much difference in this before-after pic coz of the lighting there.

I think its totally worth a try before your special event or something..though its priced at a higher side for your normal regular monthly facial if you go for one..but worth a investment once in 5-6 months.

My only issue was they used Moroccanoil on the face..I mean I agree its pure and all,but its a hair product for a reason. I would have much preferred if they did use pure argan oil. Also, I got a small pimple after a day or two..so since the face is cleansed of dirt, etc..sometimes it first reacts and one may break out as it all comes out and up.But soon the skin settles and you would see good results.

Some precautions to be taken:

  • Do not thread or bleach 4-5 days before going for this facial and 7 days after.
  • Do not use any creams, serums,etc on your face after this facial for 7 days..just a mild face wash and sunscreen.
  • Use enough sunscreen if you going to be out in the sun, after this facial, since it involves a peel.

Ya, I guess if you follow these basic things, you are good to go. If you have tried this facial or if you try now, do let me know your comments and views below.

Have you/Will you try the new Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual at Lakme Salon ?

P.S: Services were provided complimentary but that has not affected my review.