When we first shifted times were tough. There were issues running the household and I needed to find a solution and find one fast. Then one day, by pure chance, Kalpana Didi came to our lives and our world changed for the better. From cooking amazing dishes every day to keeping the house spick and span, she does it all fabulously and with a smile on her face.
It’s not easy to trust people these days, but her honesty is one of her most valuable features. From checking the vegetables and groceries to reminding me of the shopping list, she is my right-hand woman. And that’s not all, she goes out of her way to do extra work, whenever she has free time.
Through the years, we know that she is someone who we can trust to get the job done. It started with simple, small tasks and then they were built on and our mutual trust has grown with every passing instance, and she has become family to us.
Often when I watch her work, I am pleasantly surprised to see how she goes about her tasks. Each one gets her complete attention and if I am home or not, it gets done diligently. We can completely count on her and appreciate her presence in our lives.
The world can be a scary place until you carve your own space and fill it with those you can trust. They are the backbone in your lives- the people who enable you to take flight. While you might not meet these people every day, it is important to recognise and value them when you do meet them. Through interactions with them through the years, you will find your place in the world and build multiple relationships that you can depend on in the long run.
With the longevity of trust at the forefront, Exide Life Insurance has partnered with MS Dhoni and have launched a campaign #DhoniKaSaath around Lamba saath, bharose ki baat. Watch this beautiful video to know more…
Living in a metro was never easy. Admittedly, one has better access to a number of amenities but with all this, some uninvited guests in the form of – dirt, dust, pollution, grunge, grime and what not keep visiting our skin 24*7 🙁
To battle them, our first weapon is those eye-pleasing chemical-laden products that look at us enticingly from the shelves of the stores we throng to rescue our skin. Thanks to the paucity of time at hand and the desperation to rid ourselves off those skin woes, we add those rubbish products to our shopping cart. Months pass by and the products do more harm than good. Disenchanted, we start thinking that now the clock cannot be turned back. THIS is where we falter.
We always have organic products at our service to ride us off our skin woes. I admit they take time and patience but the end results are worth waiting for 🙂 In line with that thought, I zeroed in on RAW RITUALS ETHEREAL FACE SERUM one fine day. Let us see if it did anything praiseworthy to my skin or not.
PRICE- Rs 400/- for 8ml, Rs.750/- for 15ml (Buy HERE)
DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Take 3-4 drops of the serum and massage onto your clean face and neck in circular motion till the oil is completely absorbed.
This is the complete list of ingredients. No cheap/artificial fillers. No chemicals 🙂
WHAT IT CLAIMS- Ageing is a fact of life, but this powerful serum can combat the enemies of your skin and halt the ageing process to keep your complexion looking younger for longer. Whatever your main concern – be it wrinkles, skin brightening or instant hydration, the carrot seed oil present in this serum will take care of it. It will nourish, tighten, revitalize, rejuvenate skin and will slow the progression of visible wrinkles. The sweet, warm, balsamic aroma of the Olibanum oil is stimulating and elevating to the mind. This beautifully scented Raw Rituals Ethereal Face Serum is perfect for improving skin tone, deep hydration, reducing early signs of aging by smoothing out the fine wrinkles and uneven skin.
MY EXPERIENCE-
Packed in a royal blue glass bottle with a dropper on top and a layer of plastic sheet wrapped around its cap to prevent leakage, the packaging of Raw Rituals Ethereal face serum is impeccable. Not only does it look eye-pleasing (which is something I do not pay heed to but if it’s good, one should praise) but also fulfils all the factors that are actually pivotal such as- sturdiness, hygiene and travel-friendliness (of course, handle with care for it is glass) In short, as far as packaging is concerned, it gets full points from me.
The oil has a non-greasy, non-oily and non-sticky texture which is a major plus point for I think everyone can use even though it is specifically targeted towards dry skin. As instructed, 3-4 drops were used by me twice every day for over a week (that is how, it lasted. I had the smaller bottle).
Two minutes of massage and it went into my skin without leaving any trace of oil/grease. It hydrated my skin without weighing it down besides imparting softness (which will be noticeable after 5-6 uses)and a subtle glow (again, do not expect miracles with a single use). At times, I did not even apply anything on my face and venture out with just a few drops of this serum massaged into my skin. This is efficacious this serum is 🙂 It is capable of compelling you to chuck makeup altogether!
The aroma is pleasant and would not irk those with a sensitive nose. It is, however, transient. It can be used every night as a part of one’s ‘beauty sleep’ and you’ll wake up with clearer. Since I am in my early 20s, I cannot comment on its effectiveness to combat wrinkles/aging, however, given its ORGANIC composition and performance so far, it deserves a thumbs up 🙂 Way to go, Team Raw Rituals. It is the first time I am using a serum and I’m going gaga over it. Go grab it!
GOOD-
1. Organic
2. No chemicals or preservatives added
3. Sturdy packaging
4. Available easily (on Amazon India)
5. Brightens complexion
6. Softens skin (not intensely but to a certain extent)
7. Can be used daily
8. Can be used by all skin types
9. No rubbish added
10. Uplifting aroma (which is not artificial but of essential oils)
11. Non-sticky/non- greasy/non-oily texture
12. Gets absorbed within the twinkling of an eye
BAD- None
RATING- 5/5
Editor’s Note: This sounds really good, I will definitely give this a try. I love serums and oils
Have you tried the Raw Rituals Ethereal Face Serum?
Top 10 Types of Essential Oils, Their Uses and Benefits, How to Use, Buy Online
By Simran
An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants.
An oil is ‘essential’ in the sense that it contains the ‘essence of’ the plant’s fragrance—the characteristic fragrance of the plant from which it is derived.
Interest in essential oils has revived in recent decades with the popularity of aromatherapy, a branch of alternative medicine that claims that essential oils and other aromatic compounds have curative effects.
In addition to these impressive qualities, they often also transfer very pleasurable sensory experiences within minutes because of their fragrances and restorative natures, making them impactful on our brain chemistry, emotional well-being, and spiritual wellness. This makes for a highly vast and diverse list of uses for essential oils.
Rosewood is a decorative tree and used to make furniture, chopsticks, and show pieces; it is a versatile and durable tree that grows abundantly in Brazil. It is commonly called sheesham in India. But rosewood is more than just a raw material used in manufacturing.
Benefits/uses of rosewood essential oil:
Rosewood oil has tissue-regenerating properties that help prevent wrinkles and premature aging.
You can use it to reduce the onset of pimples and blackheads while controlling the amount of sebum secreted by your oil glands
It even has wound-healing actions, making it an ideal first-aid remedy for cuts and insect bites.
Aroma therapists use it to help treat depression, as it is said to impart feelings of happiness and strength.
How to Use: You can dilute the oil by using a carrier oil like coconut/olive oil and apply it on your face or use it as a massaging oil. Add a few drops to your bath to relax your body. You can even mix it in your unscented shower gel to achieve a sweet smelling shower gel which relaxes you.
Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of the tea tree plant, a member of the myrtle tree family, which is native to Australia.
Benefits/Uses of Tea Tree essential oil:
Tea tree oil can be used to cure acne, fungal and bacterial infections.
It can even effectively be used to get rid of dandruff.
Tea tree essential oil can provide relief from muscular pain, aches, and sprains because its strong chemical properties can work as an anti-inflammatory and also encourages blood flow.
How to Use: Mix the oil in your moisturiser or Mix a drop or 2 with a smidge of coconut oil and use a cotton swab to apply on your face to effectively fight acne. Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water and dip your toothbrush in it once a week to get rid of bacteria on your toothbrush. Use the oil as your deodorant since it fights bacteria and helps you smell fresh.
Orange essential oil is obtained from the peels of orange by cold compression. Although most of you know the common name of oranges, perhaps you don’t know the botanical name, Citrus Sinensis.
Benefits/Uses of orange essential oil:
Orange essential oil is known to relax muscular and nervous spasms.
Curing acne and constipation.
Improves complexion.
Inhibits growth of microbes in wounds and helps reduce inflammation.
How to Use: Use it with your moisturiser, since Vit. C helps in repairing skin and fighting wrinkles. Add a few drops of oil in water and use it as a kitchen cleanser. Diffuse Orange with Lime, Lemon, or Tangerine for a sunny warm-weather scent, or diffuse it with Cinnamon and a hint of Clove for a festive smell perfect for the holidays.
Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the lavender plant. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourri for centuries. Traditionally, lavender essential oil has also been used in making perfumes.
Benefits/Uses of Lavender essential oil:
Lavender essential oil is known to Reduces anxiety and emotional stress
Heal burns and wounds.
It helps in Improving sleep
Restores skin complexion and reduces acne.
It Slows aging with powerful antioxidants.
How to Use: Put a drop or two in your bath water to instantly relax your body after a long day. If you have trouble sleeping, put 2-3 drops on your pillow case to help you fall asleep faster. Mix several drops of Lavender oil with a nut or vegetable mixing oil (coconut, sesame, etc) and use topically on acne.
Cedarwood essential oil is extracted from wood pieces of the cedar wood tree. Cedarwood contributes a great deal to its health benefits.
Benefits/uses of Cedarwood essential oil:
Cedarwood oil promotes hair growth
has anti-inflammatory agents
cures toothaches
strengthens gums
It clears out toxins and helps cure acne and fungal infections.
Reduces skin irritations
regulates menstruation
stimulates metabolism
tightens muscles
How to Use: Just add a few drops of Cedarwood oil to your shampoo or massage it directly into the scalp to promote hair growth. Simply add a few drops of cedarwood oil to your skin cream and rub it into the affected acne areas or you can add 4 or 5 drops to your bathwater to help soothe the skin. You could also add cedarwood oil to coconut oil and some oatmeal to make your own facial scrub. If you are feeling in any way tense, stressed or depressed try inhaling cedarwood essential oil from the bottle or put a few drops on a handkerchief and breathe it in whenever you feel the need.
Chamomile oil is extracted from the flowers of the Chamomile plant, which is very popular as a flowering plant. There are two types of Chamomile; The Roman Chamomile and the German Chamomile.
Benefits/uses of Chamomile essential oil:
Chamomile oil is best known throughout the ages for its sedative and soothing qualities.
Endowed with an overall calming effect for the stressed mind and tense body
Chamomile essential oil can also be used to ease feelings of grief, anger, discontent or over-sensitivity.
It helps in fading scars and spots on your skin and treats sunburn.
How to Use: Rub a few drops of Chamomile essential oil on your pulse points like behind the ear or neck; it will help you fall asleep better. Add 1–2 drops to your favourite moisturizer, shampoo, or conditioner to promote youthful looking skin and hair. Add 1–2 drops to herbal teas or hot drinks to soothe the body and mind.
Cinnamon originated in tropical Asia, and was particularly widely used in Sri Lanka and India. Now, the shrub is grown in almost every tropical region of the world. The spice, owing to its vast medicinal uses, has found a prominent position in traditional medicines, especially in Ayurveda, which is the traditional Indian medicinal system.
Benefits/uses of Cinnamon essential oil:
It increases circulation and fights viruses.
The oil possesses anti inflammation properties and hence cures acne effectively.
Helps alleviate sore muscles and joints
How to Use: Place 1 drop Cinnamon essential oil in hot water or tea and drink slowly to soothe your throat. Dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut or mineral oil and apply on your face for glowing skin and decreasing acne. Place one drop on your toothbrush then add toothpaste for healthier gums.
Sweet Basil/Tulsi Essential Oil
8. Sweet Basil essential oil:
Sweet basil oil comes from basil, a plant with a thick foliage and small white flowers. Fresh basil leaves taste sweet and pungent, and exudes a fresh and floral aroma, while the dried ones have a spicy and earthy scent. Basil was widely used in ancient times and still used in India for various medicinal purposes.
Benefits/uses of Sweet Basil essential oil:
Sweet Basil essential oil Soothes sore muscles and joints.
It enhances the lustre of dull-looking skin and hair.
It helps cure acne and improves circulation.
Apply to minor skin irritations
For sensitive skin, dilute with fractionated coconut oil.
It is anti bacterial
How to Use: Mix it in your shampoo or moisturiser for lush hair and glowing skin. Use basil essential oils topically on the feet or by diffusing them aromatically to fight fatigue.
While the aroma of peppermint essential oil may be synonymous in some minds with the candy, it’s a lot more than flavouring. The essential oil of peppermint has been used for centuries for digestive problems, sinus and respiration and more. The aroma of the oil can be very sweet, and obviously minty, in nature.
Benefits/uses of Peppermint essential oil:
It nourishes skin and improves texture of oily skin
Promotes hair growth
Improves mental focus and relieves headaches.
How to Use: Add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to your regular morning shampoo and conditioner to stimulate the scalp and energize your mind. Use a drop or two on your temples to help enhance mental clarity. Inhaling peppermint essential oil can stave off the munchies and can help you feel full faster.
Lemongrass is an herb that belongs to the grass family of Poaceae. Lemongrass oil has a light and fresh lemony smell with earthy undertones. It is stimulating, relaxing, soothing, and balancing.
Benefits/uses of Lemon grass essential oil:
It relieves head and stomach aches
Helps reduce acne and oiliness of the skin
Helps in reducing fatigue or insomnia, even menstrual cramps.
How to Use: Diffuse or apply Lemongrass essential oil to bottoms of feet at bedtime for a restful night’s sleep. Drink two cups of lemongrass tea a day to relieve pain associated with your period. To help clear up acne, add one drop to a carrier oil and dab on to affected areas once or twice a day.
These essential oils are also available in a set of 6 (HERE) and set of 12 (HERE), different combinations.
Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer Review, Swatches
Hi guys,
I have been trying out two new Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primers since quite a few days now and here are my thoughts on it..
What the Company claims:
What it is: A makeup primer that assists with balancing the skin’s texture and tone for smoother, more even, and longer-lasting makeup wear.
What it does: Prep skin for your makeup routine with Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primers, and address your skin concerns with this innovative makeup primer. Perfect for balancing skin and achieving an ideal makeup result, it’s lightweight and creamy, leaving a more evenly-toned appearance, and increases foundation’s hold. This primer for all skintones leaves makeup looking fresh for hours while it hydrates, firms, and smooths the look of the skin.
Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer is available in 10 formulas to target every texture and tone concern:
Texture: Mattifying Primer reduces shine for oily skin. Smoothing Primer evens the skin’s texture. Hydrating Primer preps normal skin and restores balance. Nourishing Primer moisturizes and comforts. Redness Correcting Primer neutralizes.
Tone: Radiant Primer Blue adds radiance to light skin. Radiant Primer Pink adds radiance to light to medium skin. Radiant Primer Yellow adds radiance to light to medium skin. Radiant Primer Peach adds radiance to medium to tan skin. Radiant Primer Caramel adds radiance to dark skin.
If you’re not sure where to start, try the Smoothing and Hydrating Primers.
“Like painters, who need a perfectly smooth, even-colored, and flawless canvas, makeup artists require even-toned and smooth skin for an optimal and professional makeup result.”—Dany Sanz, MAKE UP FOR EVER Founder and Creative Director
MAKE UP FOR EVER’S exclusive Equalizer Technology features Acti Tensor 3D, Hyaluronic Acid, and Regeactive, which help to hydrate, firm, and smooth the skin to create the perfect makeup canvas.
MRP: Rs.3300/- for 30ml
Suggested Usage:
-Before applying makeup to skin, dab a quarter size amount with fingertips or sponge in a downward motion.
-Customize your results by mixing texture and tone formulas.
-Combine redness correcting or radiant primers before mattifying or smoothing, or you hydrating or smoothing primers can be combined before redness correcting or radiant primers.
-Finish with your favorite foundation.
I have the Smoothing one and the Radiant Blue one. It comes in a small handy tube packaging with a nozzle dispensor which dispenses just the right amount of product.
The Smoothing one is tinted and is more silicony and thick while the Radiant Blue one has a blue tint of course, but is a little more liquidy and runny.
The Radiant Blue one is made in France while the Smoothing one is made in Japan, as you can see here. I believe they have strict quality control standards.
Both are quite easy to apply and use and give a nice, smooth canvas for the foundation to work on. The Radiant Blue one gives a soft blue tint which makes the skin looks brighter with the foundation too. While the Smoothing one, completely smoothes out the pores and fine lines. Even on the hand swatch when blended the Smoothing one, it gave a flawless look and blurred out all the fine lines.
Left- Smoothing, Right- Radiant BlueLeft- Smoothing, Right- Radiant Blue (Blended)
If you have a lot of pores and fine lines on the face, I would definitely suggest the Smoothing one. If you have very oily skin, then the Mattifying one is perfect for you and Hydrating one is amazing for dry skin. I have seen a lot of my favourite YouTubers who have dry skin, use and love the Hydrating one.
If I have to pick one from the two, I like the Smoothing one a little more for the flawless finish it gives to my skin.
These are a little expensive but you just need a little bit for each use. And Make Up For Ever products do come with a heavy price tag, but also offers great quality.
I definitely recommend these! If you are not into color correcting, then Smoothing/Mattifying/Hydrating ones are worth a try!
Sadly MUFE is only available at Sephora currently, so you can only get it in Delhi, Mumbai & Bangalore or you can pick them up when you are travelling.
Have you tried the new MUFE Step 1 Skin Equalizers yet?
Plum is a new emerging brand which many people might not be aware of. Its slowly getting popular. Today, am not just reviewing this body lotion, but also the brand as a whole. I have used a few of their other products and they have worked very well on my sensitive skin. Also their website is intuitive and the entire ordering process is easy and smooth. Also they have a rewards program, plus they give discounts at times. I got their Hello Aloe Moisturiser and the face wash came at Rs.99 instead of the regular price. Additionally, got some samples too. Its good when these companies send such samples, as after I used them, I found it works well for my skin and I might repurchase the full size. And this “Plum Choco Latte Luxuriant Body Lotion”, actually I won it in their instagram contest. So let’s move on to the review.
Product Claims: Strictly inedible! Indulgent aroma and silky texture – this smoothie is only for your skin to drink. There is nothing better than a friend, unless it’s a friend with a chocolate.
The body lotion comes in a white, opaque, plastic bottle. The packaging could be slightly improved to bring in a more fun factor. It has a pump at the top for dispensing which makes it super convenient. The pump has a lock mechanism which shuts on twisting. I have carried it while travelling and there has been no spillage. Plum is transparent not just about its ingredients (What's in). But also lists the What’s out on the packaging. The entire description makes it fun rather than the boring descriptions we usually read in other brands.
Texture and fragrance:
It looks and smells exactly like a hot chocolate drink. No artificial scent like Vaseline, TBS, etc. The smell immediately reminds me of the warm chocolate drink I had at a Himalayan campsite in the cold weather. 😉
My experience:
No doubt it is rightly labelled as a luxuriant body lotion. Its one of the best I have ever used. Has perfect consistency, no stickiness and provides deep nourishment. I have extra dry skin and this has helped me greatly when other lotions haven’t. The staying power is pretty long. And I enjoy the delicious aroma every time on applying. I don’t know how they have bought the exact natural scent of chocolate into it when many other brands have just had artificial fragrances. But those who want to indulge in a Willy Wonka kinda experience, soak yourself in this delicious choco-latte and enjoy 😀
Plus, its free of parabens and all other harmful chemicals. Suitable for sensitive skin. My skin loves it totally and it feels healthy and nourished. You might feel the price is on the higher side. I do feel the price is higher for a body lotion as we use it very often and it gets over quickly in around two weeks. But in the current market, compared to the available body lotions, most of us are seeking paraben-free, artificial fragrance-free and other shit-free products. And they are all highly priced. Plum seems to offer them at more a reasonable price.
Maybe, as more such brands enter the market, the prices might slowly lower with increasing demand. One final thing, check out their website. I ordered from them before and being a software engineer, I couldn’t help admiring the entire UI, easy and intuitive ordering and checkout process, rewards program, etc. I have used other websites for ordering beauty products but Plum is really excellent. Wishing for newer products and innovations. And discounts too 😉
For oily/normal skin types, am not sure if it would work well. But for me, I am going to repurchase this and recommend it to dry skin and choco lovers.
What I like about it:
* Provides deep nourishment to skin.
* Retains moisture for a longer time.
* Delicious, yummy natural aroma of choco-latte.
* Super convenient packaging.
* Free of parabens, SLS and PABA.
* Cruelty-free.
* Reasonable price compared to other similar brands.
Suggestions for improvement:
* Price can be little lower for a body lotion.
Rating: 6/5 (I couldn’t resist giving 6 😉 It was awesome )
Verdict: Plum Choco Latte Luxuriant Body Lotion is really an excellent treat to nourish and pamper your skin. I would surely recommend this to everyone. Additionally, I would like to add that Plum gives back 1% of its sales to non-profit organizations dedicated to protecting the environment. Good to see such brands emerging in India. 🙂
There are some words in English whose meaning is best explained by the Oxford English dictionary. And then, there are some words which are best explained by the men from across the border. For instance, dashing, debonair, hunky, charismatic, alluring… Phew! I can go on and on with this. The point is our neighbours are blessed really well in the looks department and it doesn’t hurt to admire them overtly once, does it? 🙂
If the women set hearts aflutter thanks to their piercing eyes, captivating smile, lustrous mane and striking features, the men make our hearts skip a beat thanks to the visual service they do to us. Thank you, Zee Zindagi for treating our minds to dramas with rock solid plots (with a few exceptions here too) and people who are ridiculously good-looking. So, on that note, why not feast our eyes to those very men from the other side of the border who leave us drooling? 😀
WARNING- DO NOT FAINT AS YOU PROCEED.
ISSUED IN THE INTEREST OF WOMEN THE WORLD OVER.
1. Osman Khalid Butt- A comedian, YouTuber, script writer, poet, secret dancer(or shall I say ‘Dancer in the dark’?) and an actor rolled into one, Osman Khalid Butt- Obi for short, is one of the A-Listers of Pakistan’s drama industry. With a chiselled jawline, piercing eyes and witty one-liners thrown on the spur of the moment by the man, he surely ranks high on the desirability meter. Spare me a minute for I am swooning By the way, his performance in the subtly nuanced comedy drama Aunn Zara remains my favourite so far.
2. Mikaal Zulfiqaar- You saw him umpteen times scorch the screen with his regal looks on Zee Zindagi. In fact, you even saw him in the 2015 Hindi film – Baby play the role of an undercover Indian agent. Mikal Zulfiqaar is a London-born Pakistani actor and model who too features as an A-Lister in Pakistan’s drama industry. He won Best Actor title in Hum TV Awards held in Dubai in April, 2015, for his role in the drama serial ‘Muhabbat subah kaa sitara hai’
3. IMRAN ABBAS NAQVI- Born in the city of lights- Karachi, Imran Abbas Naqvi catapulted to instant fame with the success of his drama- Dil-E- Muztar in 2013. His chemistry opposite Pakistani actress Sanam Jung was the talk of the town. His features are the textbook definition of ‘well-defined’. Intense eyes, a mesmerizing voice and brooding looks make him a complete package.
4. SHEHRYAR MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI- Just have a look at that melting smile and cute eyes. Swoon… Okay, come back now. You saw him perhaps the first time as the unassuming, obliging and sweet as saccharine Usama in Zindagi Gulzar Hai and were left wondering,“Who is that guy?” 😀 An actor by profession, Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui is notable for his role in Hum TV serial Meray Dard Ko Jo Zuban Miley, for which he won Hum Award for Best New Sensation Television. Here’s to this chocolate boy who strikes a chord with his honest performances 🙂
5. AHSAN KHAN- A thorough gentleman… that’s what bursts in my mind the moment I look at him. Prim and proper, courteous, dignified and inexplicably good-looking, it is as if the word gentleman was coined after him! Ahsan Khan is a Pakistani film and television actor, host and performer. The fact that he bagged the Hum Award for Best Actor Critics for his show Mausam speaks volumes about his acting chops.
6. ALI ZAFAR- Cute face? Check. Soulful voice? Check. Acting skills? Check. Desirable? Double check. That’s Ali Zafar for you. A Pakistani actor, singer-songwriter, musician and painter, Ali is the first to establish a career in the Hindi cinema and his success led many Pakistani actors to venture into Bollywood films. He made his acting debut with a leading role in the 2010 Bollywood satire film Tere Bin Laden which I find one of the most sensible comedy movies in recent times churned by the Hindi film industry. His performance in the film garnered critical appreciation and earned him several nominations in the Best Male Debut category, including Filmfare.
7. DANYAL ZAFAR- Closely following the footsteps of his elder brother Ali Zafar, the 22 year old Danyal is exceptionally good-looking. Need evidence? Scroll up and come back within 15 minutes. I bet you can’t 😛 All of 22 and Danyal gained recognition with his first appearance on the screen in the short film The Time Machine, released in 2014. A singer and a guitarist by passion, Danyal who has keen interest in blue and rock music genre jams with his brother Ali and also accompanies him in stage performances. We know where the influence is coming from now 🙂 One thing is for sure, great genes run in the Zafar family.
8. DANISH TAIMOOR- ‘Heart break alert’… He’s married and that too, to none other than the alluring Ayeza Khan. They have a daughter named Hoorain and look picture perfect together. Doesn’t that speak volumes about the charm of Mr. Taimoor? Danish Taimoor is a Pakistani actor and model. He began his career in 2005 and his notable work includes Meri Behen Maya, Mannchalay, Jab we Wed , Shert, Sari Bhool Humari thi, Aik Pal and Mehreen Jabbar’s Rehai.
9. ADNAN MALIK– A Pakistani television actor, model, documentary filmmaker, video and music video producer, commercial and music video director, Visual storyteller and former VJ all rolled into one, Adnan Malik is the new sensation of Pakistani entertainment industry at the moment. Born in Islamabad, Adnan made his television debut as an actor in Sadqay Tumhare which earned him a Hum Award for Best Actor Popular nomination at 3rd Hum Awards.Not to forget, he looks the notorious, suave and charming funny man who has the ladies swooning over him as much as they are laughing their hearts out on his witty one-liners.
10. FAWAD KHAN- They say ‘Save the best for the last’. I followed suit. He needs no introduction. Look at those deep, intense, piercing eyes as if staring straight into one’s soul. Melt. That smirk which turns one’s cheeks into all shades of red needs no elaboration. Melt again. His voice that strikes all the chords. The tehzeeb with which he speaks… I can go on and on but eventually nothing will do justice to the man who is the textbook definition of desirability – Fawad Afzal Khan. All I have to say is- You sir, are incredibly good-looking. I am staring at you SHAMELESSLY :p
Editor’s Note: Fawad Khan was a little skinny earlier, then he put on some weight and I saw him in person at an event, needless to say, I am a fan now! Also love Ali Zafar. Imran Abbas Naqvi is going to be a new favourite, I guess 😀
So it’s been quite some time I am playing with a few new launches by MAC Cosmetics. I also created a look with few of their new launches. And here are my thoughts on it..
MAC Modern Twist Kajal Liner
What the Company claims: A kohl-like liner that’s sultry, seductive and a little bit scandalous.The easy-glide formula makes this pencil a one-stroke wonder with a silky, soft texture perfect for rimming the sensitive waterline. Its colour intensity and extreme depth creates a look with unparalleled impact. The long-wearing, waterproof formula locks in your look for hours.
Features an extremely soft, gliding, creamy formula
Features excellent and even colour payoff
Features a high-coverage formula
Long-wearing, ten hours
Smudge-resistant
Transfer-resistant
Waterproof
Ophthalmologist tested
Safe for contact lens wearers
Usage: Apply to lid directly (can also be used in the waterline). Once twisted up, this product will not twist back down.
MRP: Rs.990
Shades Available: 13
I have the shade New Marine which is a cool toned emerald green with a pearly finish. The Modern Twist Kajal glides on pretty smooth and do not tug or pull. These are super pigmented and with two swipes would give a perfect, opaque line. These are water proof as well as smudge proof but need a good makeup remover to take it off. On the upper lashline, they stay put almost whole day, however on the waterline, they do fade away after 6-7 hours which is still pretty good.
They retract only one way, so be careful and do not retract the entire pencil. As we are used to two way retracting pencils, this is a disadvantage as one has to be extra cautious or the entire pencil will go waste.
They have a beautiful n*de shade called ‘Nothing On’ which is a perfect nude for the waterline. I am eyeing that one.
Overall I would say these are definitely worth a try.
MAC Versicolour Stain
What the Company claims: A liquid lip colour that’s the ultimate fusion of gloss and stain. The ultimate fusion of gloss + stain in one fluid formula that melts onto lips for a full-on glassy shine that lasts and lasts and lasts. Infused with emollient oils, its creamy, lightweight texture stays bright, lustrous and so comfortable without ever cracking or peeling. Like an energy shot for your lips, a range of resilient hues live long into the day (and night).
Long-wearing, eight hours
Shine wears for eight hours
Provides stay-true colour
Features a comfortable formula
Features a jelly-like texture
Provides a super-glossy shine
Dermatologist tested
Usage: Apply directly to lips with doe foot applicator. As with many lip stains, lips might feel slightly dry over time. If desired, prep lips with a lightweight lip balm or our Prep + Prime Lip. Product not recommended for use on overly dry or sensitive lips. For optimal lip definition, use with Lip Pencil or Pro Longwear Lip Pencil.
MRP: Rs.1800 for 8.5ml
Shades Available: 16
As rightly described, Veriscolour Stain is a mix of lip gloss and lip stain. It looks and feels like a lip gloss and is pigmented and long staying like a lip stain. It comes with a doe foot applicator. The packaging is basic black with transparent see through part in between to identify the colour.
It is jelly like in texture and goes on like a lip gloss. The only disadvantage is that it might smear and smudge since it is very pigmented and liquidy/runny. I love the pigmentation and staying power, although doesn’t stay 8 hours, but stays a decent 4-4.5 hours on me. It is not transfer proof though, so will fade away with a full meal, it leaves behind a pretty stain.
These are slightly expensive at Rs.1800 but it’s an innovative product. If you like lip glosses and prefer them to be more pigmented and long staying which leave a nice stain behind, you will love this.
I have the shade Preserving Passion which is a nice, deep wine berry colour.
MAC Zac Posen Collection
I have the Haute Contour from the MAC Zac Posen Collection which is a powder blush-bronzer duo. The packaging is very sturdy and it comes with a nice mirror.
What the Company claims: A powder blush duo to achieve the sculpted look seen in Zac Posen’s runway shows.
MRP: Rs. 2800 for 10g
The bronzer is medium brown with warm orange-yellow undertones and the blush is a medium coral pink with gold shimmer. I don’t have much to say about this, there is no pigmentation in the product. You have to go over at least 6-7 times for some colour to show up on your skin. The bronzer is still better but the blush gives no colour sadly. Disappointed with this, do not recommend.
MAC Flamingo Park Collection
I have a lipstick and a cremesheen glass from this collection.
MRP: Rs.1450 for lipstick and Rs.1650 for cremesheen glass
The lipstick in Flocking Fabulous is a bright coral red and is a mix of cremesheen + pearl finish and Such Sweeties is a pastel baby pink. There are 9 other lipsticks in this collection and 5 cremesheen glass.
The lipstick is bright and pigmented, goes on smooth and is very comfortable on the lips. It has a glossy finish but the glossiness settles down after some time. It stays put for a decent 4-5 hours without meal. The cremesheen glass is completely non sticky and very smooth to apply. It is not that pigmented and needs a base like a lipliner or lipstick below. I used it as it is and it doesn’t look very flattering as it does not cover pigmented lips.
I had used this lipglass in my blue smokey eyes tutorial HERE
It has a doe foot wand and a nice, warm vanilla smell.
Absolutely love the lipstick, the cremesheen glass is pretty nice but with a base colour.
L-R: Preserving Passion, New Marin, Haute Contour, Flocking Fabulous, Such Sweeties
Here I have used the Modern Twist Kajal in New Marine, I went for the half and half eyeliner look with half being green and half black, and also used it on the waterline. I have also used Haute Contour which is not much visible coz of the pigmentation and the Preserving Passion Stain.
Excuse my under eyes, I should have used an orange corrector, but I was in a hurry that day as had to leave for an event.
Overall I would definitely recommend the Modern Twist Kajal and Versicolour Stains. Also if you can get your hands on Flocking Fabulous, some lipsticks and cremesheen glass shades are ‘fabulous’ 😀
Patanjali is a well known brand in the Indian market. It is famous for its affordable and effective health, hair and skin care products. The product that I am going to review today is a haircare product – PATANJALI KESH KANTI ALOE VERA SHAMPOO. Now lets see how this product fared for me.
What it claims- Prevents hairfall, minimize split ends, removes dirt from hair and scalp. Makes hair thick and beautiful.
Usage- Take 2-3 ml of product on hand, message on wet hair and then rinse off. The whole usage instruction is written in Hindi though.
Ingredients:
Each 10ml contains extract of
● Aloevera- 500mg
● Hibiscus rosa sinensis – 1.0mg
● Ocimum sanctum (tulsi) – 1.0mg
● Baccopa monnieri (bhrami) – 1.0mg
● Sapindus trifoliatus (reetha) – 1.0mg
● Emblica offcinalis (amla) – 1.0mg
● Eclipta alba (bhringraj) – 1.0mg
● Lawsonia innermis (heena) – 1.0mg
● Acacia concina (shikakai) – 1.0mg
● Curcuma longa (haldi) – 1.0mg
● Tinospora cordifolia (giloyi) – 1.0mg
● Psoralea corylifolia (bakuchi) – 1.0mg
● Base material qs
Now all the base materials are listed separately too.
● Aqua surfacant base
● Tocopherol
● D-Panthenol
● Permitted colour
● Preservative
● Sugandhit dravya
Price – 75 INR for 200ml of product
Shelf life – 2 years
My take:-
This new launch from Patanjali Ayurved has a different packaging than their other variants. This one comes in a transparent bottle and it very easy to see the amount of product left. The flip top cap shuts tightly with a click which makes it travel friendly.
The shampoo is light green in colour with a gel consistency but when I apply it on my wet hair it lathers very well and my hair is clean in the first wash itself. The smell is citrusy and is mainly like their aloevera gel making it very refreshing for me. It lingers for a good time after I have finished washing my hair.
I am using this product for about 2 weeks now and I have seen my hair become soft and manageable after each hair wash. Even when I washed my hair once without conditioner, it didn’t make my hair very dry and rough. It has controlled the oiliness of my hair and even after 2 days my hair feels soft and so much clean. It has controlled my hairfall to some extent but I can’t comment on split ends as I don’t have as such.
There is no mention of parabens or SLS in the ingredient list so I will like to infer that it is free from these harmful stuff which is a big yay for me. The cons that I feel might be the availability as Patanjali products are sometimes out of stock and are not easily available online. Again I need a little more quantity of shampoo than their other variants for my mid-length hair. But considering their price, I feel it is a steal deal.
Pros-
● Affordable and effective
● Ayurvedic so no side effects
● Contains all good ingridients especially aloevera
● Makes hair soft, smooth and manageable
● Controls hair fall
● Controls oiliness in hair
● Refreshing smell
● Does what it claims
● No parabens or sls
● Better than their other variants
Cons-
● Availability might be an issue
● Need more quantity than others
● Not completely preservative or chemical free
● Packaging can be better
Repurchase and recommendation – Yes in both cases. I love this shampoo specially for summers and monsoons when both me and my hair need to feel fresh.
Overall- It is a very effective shampoo from Patanjali with all natural goodness and it does what it claims to do. And considering the price it is a definitely worth a try.
Editor’s Note: That’s a nice review Taniya, I am looking at trying a few Patanjali products, this one definitely seems worth a try.
Have you tried this Patanjali Aloe Vera Shampoo yet?
I have been using this Body Shop Drops Of Light Range since more than a month now and here are my thoughts on it.
Drops of Light Brightening Cleansing Foam
What the Company claims: The A rich and creamy foam cleanser to clarify and purify the skin.
– A rich and creamy lather
– Deeply purifies and cleanses the skin, without over-drying or stripping the skin of precious moisture
MRP: Rs. 1525 for 125ml
Ingredients:
Drops Of Light Brightening Serum
What the Company claims: A very lightweight serum that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it velvety soft and shine free. Clinically proven to reduce the number and intensity of dark spots.
– Lightweight texture, that quickly absorbs into the skin
– Leaves skin plumped with moisture
– Instantly skin looks brighter and more luminous
– With regular use, skin appears smoother, more healthy and translucent, with
MRP: Rs. 2450 for 30ml
Ingredients:
Drops of Light Brightening Day Cream
What the Company claims: A lightweight, yet nourishing day cream clinically proven to significantly reduce the number, size and intensity of dark spots.
– Provides hydration, for softer, smoother skin
– Instantly, skin texture feels smoother, softer and re-plumped with moisture
– After 4 weeks, skin appears brighter, healthier and skin tone is even and clarified
MRP: Rs.2050 for 50ml
Ingredients:
The facial foam is a rich, creamy face wash. I do not generally prefer foam based face washes as they do tend to dry out my skin. But since I use this range in conjunction and follow it up with the serum and day cream, the face wash seems fine. It does cleanses thoroughly though, ideal for oily skin.
The serum comes in a white tinted bottle with a dropper and is water like in texture. It is very light weight and gets absorbed easily, you just need 2-3 drops of it. This bottle will last quite a few months.
The day cream is gel like in texture and water based. It is very hydrating and moisturizing. It does feel a bit sticky though and takes time to settle down.
L-R: Cream, Serum, Face Wash
Entire range has red algae, Vitamin C and glycerine. It is very good for pigmented and uneven skin. Vitamin C takes time to show result but with regular use twice a day, it will fade all your acne scars and even out your skin tone to a great extent.
Since the cream has glycerine and is a bit sticky on application, I would not suggest it for very oily skin as they may not like the texture of it. Also this makes it ideal as a primer and it keeps makeup in place all day long. You can skip a primer when you are using this cream.
Overall, this range will work great on uneven or pigmented skin or for people who have acne scars, etc. If you have to pick only one product from this range, I would definitely suggest the serum. At this price, there are not many Vitamin C serums available in the market and this does the job quite well.
Have you tried The Body Shop Drops Of Light Range?
Vanity Planet Spin For Perfect Skin | 70% Off | Clarisonic Dupe
Hi guys,
Today I am reviewing a cleansing brush, the most affordable one in the market.
It is a great option and definitely worth investing in, coz Clarisonic, Foreo Luna, Clinique are all very expensive, this is the most economical option, especially if you are just starting to use cleansing brushes.
Cleansing brushes are a game changer in your skincare routine and once you start using them, you will not go back to using only your hands.
If you wear makeup 3-4 times a week or everyday, this will remove all the makeup and dirt from your pores. And if you don’t wear much makeup, but you are not a kind of person to get regular clean ups and facials done, you should invest in cleansing brush for sure!
I am using this since a month now and I have noticed a huge difference in my skin! I haven’t broken out since, it removes every bit of dirt and makeup from my pores.
Even after using the best Micellar water, every single time this cleansing brush removes so much makeup from the pores, that it surprises me! After using this regularly, I realize deep cleansing and pores cleaning is so important.
Just removing makeup from the upper layer is not enough, coz all the makeup settled in the pores will not come off with that.
Spin for Perfect Skin comes with 4 attachments and the main spinning tool. One is a cleansing brush which is perfect for everyday use and is very soft and gentle. This is the one I use the most!
Second is the exfoliating brush which can be used once a week for exfoliating the dead skin cells. It is slightly harsher, avoid using this if you have sensitive skin.
Third is the body exfoliating brush which is huge and perfect in size to exfoliate the skin quickly. The skin on body is not as thin as the face, so this brush is perfect for the body.
And last is the pumice stone attachment which would work great for your heels and feet.
So one device takes care of your face, body and feet!
Here is the detailed review and demo..
Vanity Planet Spin for Perfect Skin is priced at $100 but I have a special coupon code for you guys which will give you $70 off i.e. 70% off! You get it for $30 , they have three different shipping options with the cheapest being post at $20 for India. They had free shipping worldwide earlier, it does get a little expensive with the shipping, you can compare the price with the Oriflame one and go with either.
You can either go to www.vanityplanet.com and use the coupon code ‘Bhumika’ or directly go to this link vpwow.com/bhumika to get this device for $30
Overall I would say, if not this, you can go for any brand, but a cleansing brush is absolutely great for your skin and will change your skincare game forever! Highly recommend!
Have you tried any cleansing brush before? Which is your favourite?
P.S: Device sent by brand but it has not affected my review.
