Best Off Screen Looks of Sonam Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor Fashion, Indian Fashion Blog, Outfit Ideas, Bollywood Fashion

Best Off Screen Looks of Sonam Kapoor

Bollywood, Fashion, Lifestyle, Outfit Ideas, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best Off Screen Looks of Sonam Kapoor

By Nidhal

In the rule book of fashion, if there is one person whose name will be etched in golden alphabets, it will be without any iota of doubt, Sonam Kapoor. Since the day she stepped into B-wood, while many have questioned her acting and PR skills, no one can turn a blind eye to her impeccable sense of style and fashion. She is one sure-shot head-turner 🙂

Be it her casual looks, red carpet appearances, ethnic ensemble or ramp apparel, she keeps one bewitched. A personal favourite of the fashion police, let us have a look at the top 5 off-screen avatars of Sonam Kapoor when she left us gasping for more

1. ON THE STREETS OF MELBOURNE- Strolling the captivating streets of Melbourne and later attending a press conference with her father Anil Kapoor in absolute style, Sonam opted for a black LBD that not only looks casual but also professional. Unique, right? With her luscious brown locks loose and radiant skin, she surely set a lot of hearts fluttering.

2. DAY 2 OF CANNES 2013 – Sashaying down the red carpet of Cannes Film Festival 2013 on Day 2 in a custom made floral Dolce and Gabbana gown at the Jeune et Jolie premiere, Sonam raised the glam quotient of the event without going overboard thanks to her minimal makeup and accessories. The dress has a corset bodice with a voluminous skirt. And the print looks feminine, chic and quirky. It goes without saying that Sonam looked effortlessly drop-dead gorgeous.

3. AIRPORT LOOK- In one word, Sonam looks exquisite. Swaddled in a nude dress and black coat, with poker straight hair, nerdy glasses and black boots, she looks dressed like a French lady. Fashionable but not trying too hard to cast an impression- well, these things surely come naturally to this leggy lass.

4. PRDP PROMOTIONS DESI STYLE- In keeping with the underlying theme of Director Sooraj Barjatya’s Prem Ratan Dhan Paayo, Sonam opted for ethnic attire for the promotions of the film. See here is Sonam swaddled in an ethnic attire by Radha Vakil and jewellery by Sunita Kapoor.

5. IIJW 2015 RAMP – With a flair to pull off most attires in the most flattering way, Sonam Kapoor defined regal as she wore an ornate Shyamal and Bhumika lehenga at the IIJW 2015 show for Birdhichand jewellers. And the dupatta that trailed behind her as she sashayed down the ramp, added all the drama a showstopper’s outfit can ask for

6. AT KHOOBSURAT’S TRAILER LAUNCH- Her attire (and co-star) is exactly what the movie’s title is –Khoobsurat 🙂 Opting for a black and white monochrome printed Toni Maticevski at the trailer launch of Khoobsurat, Sonam looked drop-dead gorgeous.

7. IN AN ABU-JANI SANDEEP KHOSLA SAREE- Resplendent – in one word, Sonam’s look during the promotions of Neerja when she swaddled herself in an Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla saree was magnificent. In fact, everything about this look is on point be it her hair style, makeup or choice of accessories. That’s how you style a saree.

Image Source: 1,2,3,4

Editor’s Note: She always looks amazing, one person whose wardrobe any girl would want to steal 😀 I loved all the looks

Which look did you like the most?

Studiowest Maaya Crystal Eyeshadow Trio Goldmine Review, Swatches

Eyeshadows, Makeup, Reviews, StudioWest, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Studiowest Maaya Crystal Eyeshadow Trio Goldmine Review, Swatches

By Devika

Hola loves!

We all love buying makeup, don’t we? Even those “random” visits and strolls through makeup boutique and counter aisles end up with us eventually buying the stuff we fancy lying at the counters! We can’t help 😀

During such one random visit to Westside I discovered that they actually have a huge makeup and skincare studio, STUDIOWEST. I drove straight into it and the product that fascinated me the most was their eye shadow trio as I was on a hunt to get travel friendly palette to carry along for weddings!

They actually have their range sorted into two lines: (Read more HERE)

The Pure Passion line which is a more wearable, lightweight ranging from nudes to pinks for the woman at work

The Maaya line which is more edgy, has shimmery and bold dazzling shades for festivities, weddings and women who want to look more glamorous.

They have a great range of colors which are designed specifically to flatter the Indian skin tones.

Pure passion has daytime neutrals and black Smokey eye shadow trio. While Maaya has stark shades in Bombay jewels and goldmine trio.

I chose the goldmine for its vibrant color combination. It’s a mix of plum, gold and brown. I tried it at the counter and gosh it blew me off with the pigmentation. I had to pick it up!

So let’s get into reviewing the STUDIOWEST MAAYA CRYSTAL EYESHADOW IN M03 GOLDMINE

PRODUCT CLAIMS: “Hi intensity color, for dramatic eyes. Blends effortlessly to create a complete look”

PRICE: INR 425 for 4.2 g

SHELF LIFE Is approx. 2 years

TO USE: “Combine three shades to experiment with your look! Using the applicator, apply the dark shade to line the eyelid. Next, blend in the medium shade along the crease & highlight under the eyebrow for a stunning result”

AVAILABILITY: The Studio West range is available across most Westside stores in India and is an awesome stop for high quality, reasonable products. How I wish it could be available online too!

MY EXPERIENCE

PACKAGING

Studio West Maaya crystal eye shadow comes enclosed in a black paper box with small cutout window which shows off the product. Inside is a compact plastic case with no mirror attached. Well that doesn’t bother me at least. It has a transparent lid making it easier to see through the shades.

The details are written on the base. Inside the case rests three eye shadow colors in square cases. The double sided sponge applicator it comes with, is of no use and I use my own set of brushes to apply the shadows.

The packaging is simple, nothing fancy or great but not cheap looking either. It is breakable and not sturdy so one needs to be careful while handling it or while travelling.

TEXTURE

The texture is to die for!! Truly speaking I didn’t expect this kind of texture from this palette, since most drugstore brands have those powdery finish with loads of fallout. All three eye shadows are so creamy and satin soft and glide on like a dream!! Application and blending is super easy and seamless. The shimmer present in the formula is very subtle, not like big crystals but are finely milled and I didn’t observe any fall out during application, however I always prefer doing my eye makeup first and base later.

PIGMENTATION

This Goldmine trio is a beautiful palette containing great festive shades: a plum, antique gold and a copper brown. Great color selection and would suit most of our heavy attires.

I can’t really stress enough on how pigmented these eye shadows are. Just have a look at the swatches and this is without a primer (just swatched once). All the three shades are super pigmented and have a reflective, subtle shimmery finish which doesn’t look over the top. The colors blend well without a hassle.

SHADES

The color pay off in a single swipe is exceptional (see swatches). The first shade from the left is so unique. It is a plumy-burgundy shade and looks gorgeous. The middle one is shimmery golden with warm bronze undertone to it. The third one is a gorgeous copper-brown shade. Perfect blend for Indian skin tone.

STAYING POWER

They stayed quite well on my eyes for over 6 hours without any creasing or fading that too without a primer (do prime in case you have oily lids). However with a good base and primer, longevity increases by up to 2 hours. No fallouts whatsoever after application. It can easily be removed with any makeup remover for that matter. Impressive staying power!

PROS

  • Very affordable
  • Gorgeous shade selection
  • Very few fall outs
  • Blends easily
  • Staying power & pigmentation is brilliant
  • Soft creamy texture
  • Super Affordable (3 shades for 425)
  • Primer not required to intensify the colors
  • Works really well with all Indian skin tones
  • Compact and easy to carry around
  • The quantity is good enough for the price

CONS

  • Availability
  • Have a little Fallout (only during application)
  • The Brush is merely useless
  • Packaging could have been sturdier
  • Oily lids need a primer to make it last long
  • No mirror provided

RATING 4.5/5 (-0.5 for not so sturdy packing and a bad applicator)

RECOMMENDATION

Yes! I absolutely recommend this particular trio if you are looking for a palette which would be perfect for festival/ wedding season as it would team perfectly with all your ethnic attires. You can’t ask for better quality at this price. I loved the color selection on the whole, shades are sorted out to work on Indian skin. The formula and shades are absolutely fantastic and it’s very reasonably priced too. If at all you have to pick any one product from this range, this must be it!!!!

Will I repurchase?

Yes I am planning to give Daytime neutrals eye shadow a try!

Editor’s Note: I have the basic daytime neutrals one. These are a total value for money. The centre gold shade is to die for!

Have you tried the Studiowest Goldmine Eyeshadow Trio?

Braun Silk Epil 9 (SE9-961) Skin Spa Epilator Review

Braun, Epilators, Hair Removal, How To, Lifestyle, New Launches, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Braun Silk Epil 9 (SE9-961) Skin Spa Epilator Review

Hi guys,

So Braun had launched this new Silk Epil 9 Epilator last year, they have got a new revamped version of it now, which comes with German technology.

I have used it before and I used it again recently. Here are my thoughts on it..

Claims: Braun’s fastest and most precise ever, the Silk-épil 9 Wet & Dry epilator removes even the shortest hairs that wax cannot catch for up to 4 weeks of irresistibly smooth skin. The 40% wider epilation head removes more hair in one stroke. The innovative exfoliation brush gently refines skin for visible radiance.

Features:

  • Wet & Dry usage for gentler epilation: Works in bath or shower for a more comfortable epilation.
  • Pulsating active vibrations: For an extra gentle sensation.
  • Skin contour adaptation: Smoothly adapts to your body contours for more comfort and maximum thoroughness.
  • Smartlight: Reveals even the finest hair for extra thorough epilation.
  • Speed personalization: You can select the right speed for your individual needs: Speed 1 for extra gentle epilation, speed 2 for extra efficient epilation.
  • Cordless use – fast recharge: Epilate wherever and whenever desired. Get up to 40 minutes of operation after just 1 hour of charging.
  • Waterproof & washable: Can be both used and cleaned under running water for better hygiene.

 

MRP: Rs.10985 (BUY HERE for 7999)

Contents:

I have used earlier Braun epilators like 7-7891 and I can say this is an highly improved version in every sense. Even the Silk Epil 7 was wet and dry use and I prefer epilators which can be used wet too, coz I can only bear epilation in shower.

I am mostly a waxing person but I hate going to the salons, and sometimes don’t get the time to call for salon services at home. I end up shaving whenever I have to wear a dress but then I have to keep doing it every 3-4 days. At such times, epilation comes to rescue.

This one is a ‘Skin Spa’ version, so it comes with a body cleansing/exfoliation brush too. So you can not only epilate, but also exfoliate your body and get rid of those in grown hair and dead cells, right in the shower. The exfoliation brush is super dense and the 3000 micro vibrations refine the skin’s surface and make it as soft as a baby’s bottom. It’s like a body scrub at a spa or salon.

What I do and would suggest is, first use the exfoliation brush in shower, and then change the heads, and epilate in shower. The 40% wider head has definitely cut down on the time, my Silk Epil 7 used to take much longer. You can cover more area in one go with the wider head.

I love the light, it comes very handy to catch those smaller hair. Also the speed settings can be changed according to one’s pain threshold, which again is a plus.

I personally use it only wet, I have tried using it dry and I have super sensitive skin, so it gives me bumps and redness all over which takes 2-3 days to subside. I don’t experience that many bumps when used wet and also it is much less painful.

It even comes with a shaving head, so you can even use it to shave. And two additional caps, one for trimming and one for sensitive areas like face, underarms, etc.

The only disadvantage I would say is you need to charge it each time. If you want to use both the exfoliation and epilation brush, the charge would last you just once.

I do recommend it and completely agree on it being Braun’s best epilator. But I would not suggest epilation for girls with sensitive skin or to those who have very low pain threshold. For others, definitely try this and you would not go back to any other epilator.

Have you tried epilators?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Cheapest Matte Liquid Lipsticks Online India (Not Miss Claire/Incolor/Kiss Beauty)

FOTD, Lip Gloss, Lipsticks, Liquid Lipsticks, Makeup, Mars, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cheapest Matte Liquid Lipsticks Online India (Not Miss Claire/Incolor/Kiss Beauty)

Hi guys,

So I showed you my new find on Snapchat and everyone has been asking me about these since then, on my Snapchat, Instagram, everywhere.

These are Mars Long Lasting Waterproof Lip Gloss and available on Amazon India. They come in a set of six and there are 3-4 sets, I got the set B1 coz I liked all shades majorly in this set.

I have been trying these out from the last one week and here are my thoughts:

Claims: Mars crystal shine 100 % non transfer long lasting lip gloss.natural transparent effect,makes your lips appear flirtatious.

MRP: Rs.369/- plus shipping Rs.65/- (BUY HERE)

This set B1 has shades 13 to 18 i.e. 13,14,15,16,17 and 18

They comes in this lip gloss like packaging but they have an unique test tube shape.The gloss is transparent and has a silver steel cap. The applicator is straight and flat, I would have liked a doe foot applicator, that makes it easier to spread the product. With this, you have to go over multiple times as the straight shape doesn’t cover much area on the lips, if you know what I mean.

The product is super pigmented, I just go over my lips once for full opaque coverage. But when I know I have to wear this for a longer time and won’t get time to touch up or to make the color more brighter, I layer it with a second coat.

It has a sweet candy like smell, not too bothering though. The product comes off glossy and turns matte in a minute. It is transfer proof and smudge proof, it does not bleed or smear.

It stays for about 3.5-4 hours and then fades from the center or after a full meal. And you only need to reapply at the center, color is intact on rest of the lips and it stays put throughout the day. It is difficult to remove and you need a good oil based cleanser to remove it. You will only need to touch up from the center after about 4 hours.

The finish is completely matte, just the way I like it. It does not accentuate fine lines but I definitely suggest wearing a lip balm underneath, coz it does feel drying after 2-3 hours like any other liquid matte lipstick.

Shades:

13 is the only shade which is slightly sheer. It is a little watery and needs two coats. A nice berry purple, gives a stained/bitten kiss effect

14 is my favourite of all 6. It’s a mix of berry and brown

15 is a bright carrot pink

16 is a n*de milk chocolate brown, my 2nd favourite. An MLBB for me

17 is a metallic light brown, it has tiny silver shimmer

18 is a neon peachy pink

I absolutely don’t mind touching up or reapplying for the price of Rs.70/- per shade 😀 Highly recommend them, these are cheap and easily available online on Amazon. I would maybe try some other set too 😀

Have you tried Mars? What do you think of these?

Nature’s Essence Diamond Bleach Review, Price, Buy Online

Bleach, Bleaching, Hair Removal, How To, Nature's Essence, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nature’s Essence Diamond Bleach Review, Price, Buy Online

By Archana

Hi all,

After trying some of Nature’s Essence products and satisfied with it, I got their diamond bleach. In olden days, we just had regular bleaches. Now they have different variants like gold bleach, diamond bleach, fruit bleach, etc. I had already tried VLCC Diamond Bleach and loved it. So thought of giving Nature’s Essence Diamond Bleach a try. Read on to know my experience with it.

Products claims: Nature’s Diamond Bleach Cream is formulated to give natural skin glow, improved texture and fairer complexion. Its active ingredients not only lighten the skin but also nourish it with goodness of nature. It blends facial hair, cleanses pores, removes impurities and fades facial blemishes from deep within makes your skin fairer & outshines as never before. It generates and allows enough penetration of oxygen into your skin and gives you diamond like radiance.

Key Ingredients:

Cream: Hydrogen Peroxide, Sunflower oil, Almond oil

Activator: Ammonium Bicarbonate

Price and quantity: Rs.65 for 43g (35g cream bleach, 8g activator powder) (BUY HERE)

Directions to use: Mix 2 spatulas of bleach cream and 2 pinches of activator powder together. Make sure the ratio is not less than 4(cream):1(activator). Keep stirring bleach cream and activator for 2 mins, till powder dissolves completely. Apply the mixture on desired areas. Avoid eye brows and area around eyes. Keep the mixture on skin for atleast 10-15 mins. Use normal water to clean.

Packaging: It comes in a white cardboard box, inside which there are two small plastic tubs. One contains the bleach cream and other contains the activator. The directions of use are all mentioned clearly in the outer packaging. There is no pre or post-bleach creams provided. A small plastic spatula is also provided. However, all these plastic spatulas, I usually find them very light and of less quality. So I end up using my own spoons. I wish they could give better quality spatulas with these creams.

Texture and fragrance: The cream is white in color with a mild fragrance. The activator powder smells strong as usual due to presence of ammonium bicarbonate. Reminds me of my chemistry lab sessions 😉

My experience:

I mixed the cream and activator powder in ratio 4:1. After mixing it thoroughly, I applied it on my face. There were some remaining and I applied on my foot as well to brighten it up :D. I waited for 10 minutes. And then washed it off. I didn’t face any irritation or breakouts. Nature’s Essence products I realize are generally milder than the other ones. After washing, my face felt clean and brighter. My foot which had lot of tan also was brightened to some extent. It also helped to lighten facial hair. One important thing to note while using bleaches is, always use it in the ratio mentioned and don’t exceed the mentioned time. Else you might end up with very lightened hair which doesn’t suit your skin tone and looks more visible.

Pros:

* Gentle bleaching cream.

* Makes face clean and bright.

* Reduces tan to an extent.

* Affordable.

Cons:

* Pre or post bleach cream not provided.

Rating: 4.2/5

Verdict: Nature’s Essence Diamond Bleach is an affordable and gentle bleaching option available. Compared to bleaches from other brands, this suits even sensitive skin and doesn’t cause any irritation or redness. So those who are interested in bleaching can give this a try.

Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

DIY, Health, Home Remedies, How To, Lifestyle, Skin care, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

By Rashmi

Hello lovelies,

Summers are back and with a bang. Nobody likes summers as they bring with them innumerable skin woes. But don’t you people worry. I have got it all covered for you people with easy solutions to keep your skin fresh and glowing. Thank me later

1. SUNSCREEN –

Use sunscreen whenever you are going out and make sure it is at least SPF 30 or choose from what suits you. Sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent it from getting damaged.

2. CLEANSER –

The cleanser helps to unclog pores and it should be used as a part of a skincare regimen. During summers it becomes even more important to use a cleanser as the skin becomes lifeless and the pores get clogged. Make your own cleanser by mixing yogurt and honey. Apply it on your face and let it stay for 20 minutes and then wash it off to get clear skin.

3. EXFOLIATE –

Exfoliation is a must for the skin. Dead skin needs to be removed as they make the face look dull. Make your own exfoliator by mixing oatmeal, honey, and milk. Apply it on the face and let it sit for 10 mins then start scrubbing the face gently with wet hands. Scrub slowly for 5 minutes and then wash it off with water.

4. TONER-

Toners make you feel refreshed instantly. Make a refreshing toner by simply mixing cucumber juice with rosewater. Store it in the refrigerator to give it a longer life. Though use it only for a week and then make a new one. Carry it with yourself when going out. Spray it on your face to give your face instant relaxation.

5. MOISTURISE –

This step is what many people avoid during summers. Change your moisturiser to an oil-free one. Moisturisers are required by the skin in every season. It becomes even more important to use a moisturiser after exfoliation to lock the nourishment back into the skin. Mix your night serum with your moisturiser and apply it to your face to give the skin all the goodness that it needs.

6. KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED –

Drink as much water as you can. During summers this is certainly the most important thing. Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day. And do not wait for your mouth to get dry. Try drinking refreshing juices like watermelon juice or lemon water.

RANDOM SKIN CARE TIPS-

1. Rub ice all over your face to instantly soothe your skin. But make sure you cover it with a muslin cloth, never apply ice directly to your skin.

2. Apply calamine lotion to soothe skin rashes.

3. If you are out of toner, simply apply cold rosewater on your face to calm and soothe the skin.

4. Avoid oily and fried food. Include lots of fruits and veggies in your diet.

Editor’s Note: These are such basic things Rashmi, but we always tend to take them for granted. Articles like these remind me to follow things sincerely. One thing I would like to add and which I also follow is carrying a thermal spring water and spritzing it time and again, be it Avene, Vichy, La Roche Posay,etc.

Image Source: 1,2,Getty

Do you follow all these summer skin care tips?

Vichy Ideal White Meta Whitening Sleeping Mask Review

Face Mask, Night Creams, Reviews, Skin care, Vichy, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vichy Ideal White Meta Whitening Sleeping Mask Review

Hey guys,

I have used the previous Vichy Sleeping Mask i.e. the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Night Spa which I absolutely loved. So I was curious to try this new one.

What the Company claims: The range employs metabolic whitening with powerful active ingredients that work in harmony with each other to give Asian women the three dimensional fairness that they strive for – flawless, luminous and radiant skin. The 1st whitening sleeping mask three times more effective that works overnight for a dewy, brighter and fairer skin.

Product Concern:

• Hyper-pigmentation.

• Dull complexion.

• Sensitive skin.

• Hydration

MRP: Rs.2350/- for 75ml

Ingredients:

First of, I am not happy with the ‘Whitening’ tag it has. They can claim dewy, luminous, brighter, radiant skin and all that which they have but why whitening :/

It comes in a white glass tub with a pink cap and a mirror finish top. The mask is gel like in texture with a light pink tint and small tiny white beads in it. The beads are not meant for exfoliation, they dissolve on the skin when you massage the gel on your skin.

It has an aquatic plus a little chemically smell, not very pleasant. I like the gel based texture, that makes it very easy to glide on and massage. It can be used as a night cream or a night sleeping mask, either way the method of application is the same, just as a mask, you need to apply a little thicker layer.

As a night cream, it doesn’t get absorbed into your skin. It just sits on your face like a mask, and you have to wash it off the next morning. So ideally it is a mask only.

Now I have been using it on and off and stopped in between for a few days coz I broke out twice in between and had to see if this product is breaking me out. I once tried it as a mask during the day and kept it on and after 15-20 minutes, my skin was feeling a little itchy and hence I had to wash it off. I realized this mask was breaking me out earlier too, hence the delay in review.

There is some ingredient in the mask that does not go well with my skin and my skin starts feeling itchy and it breaks me out. So now I use it as a normal mask, apply and keep it on for 10 minutes and wash it off, I do not keep it ON for whole night.

If you have sensitive skin, I would not advise you to try this. This is good for dry skin and skin instantly feels hydrated and nourished even in 10-15 minutes. It definitely removes your tan and gives a translucent sheen to your skin which I love. I wish my skin didn’t react to this.

If I had to pick one out of the two Vichy Sleeping Masks I have tried, I liked the Aqualia Thermal Night Spa more.

Overall I would say, it is definitely amazing to remove tan and hydrate your skin, it does give a nice glow, but obviously temporary, you have to keep using it to see results. It does give a dewy, brighter skin as it claims. If you use it 2-3 times a week, that would be good enough. I recommend it for normal to dry skin. Though it mentions ideal for sensitive skin, I would not suggest it for them, unless you check the ingredients and are aware if your skin reacts to a particular ingredient.

Have you tried the Vichy Ideal White Meta Whitening Sleeping Mask yet?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Step By Step Description of How to Do Hair Spa At Home

DIY, Hair Care, Hair Mask, Hair Oil, Hair Spa, How To, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Step By Step Description of How to Do Hair Spa At Home

By Sanchita

The idea behind the hair spa is to rejuvenate and protect the hair. Yes, the good old warm oil massage and mild shampoo followed by conditioner is the regular or weekly routine carried on by us to protect and condition the hair. But, apart from that the hair needs specific care and rejuvenation by the process of hair spa. Now, hair spa is not necessarily done in parlors or hair care institutions and can be easily carried on at home with specific and easy available ingredients at your own volition. So you need not spend valuable money or time at the spa session every time. Let us see the step by step description of how to do hair spa at home.

1. Hair Oil

When you are going to devote yourself to the self-spa session, avoid using the readymade oils from the market which are nothing but merely mineral oils. So it will do no good to the hair. Use a concoction of hair oils like coconut oil, castor oil, almond oil and olive oil. The mixture should be 4parts coconut oil, 1 part castor oil, 2 parts almond oil and 3 parts olive oil. You can add other essential oils like argan, rose, ylang ylang or lavender as per your choice. Warm up the oil in a double boiler (no direct heat) and you can also add various herbs as well. For e.g. dried amla, methi seeds, neem leaves, hibiscus leaves paste, etc. can also be added in the warm oil which will further strengthen the hair. The hair oil is the vital step and best if it is done for.

2. Through massage

While the oil is the most important ingredient, the massage is the process which completes the procedure partly. Simply applying the oil won’t do so make sure you dedicate a good amount of time to massage the scalp well. Do not vigorously rub the scalp but merely run the fingers in a circular motion covering the whole area of the scalp. Massaging is essential as it improves blood circulation in your scalp area. You should massage your hair for 10 to 15 minutes. It helps relax the scalp and increase softness. It further aids in strengthening the roots of the hair and nourishes the hair-shafts, promoting new hair growth and strengthening current hair.

3. Warm Towel

If you have applied the oil a night before, then apply the warm towel in the morning and if you have applied the hair oil in the morning, do this at least an hour or two post oil massage. Dip a towel in warm water (just make sure not to burn the hand) and wrap it around the hair. In general, salons use a stream machine but the warm towel will surely do the trick. Warmth open up the pores on the scalp and thus it gets all the benefits of the oil. Also, it cleanses the scalp thoroughly, thereby promoting healthy hair growth.

4. Henna Mask

There are several hair masks available for hair and you can include the ingredients like ripe banana, eggs, curd, mayonnaise, etc. but I would suggest henna. Personally I have benefited a lot from the henna hair packs and it works like wonder. Henna is an age old method widely used in Ayurveda for treating hair and scalp problems. It is one of the best natural remedies for hair growth, helps to prevent dandruff and scalp itching. It acts as a good conditioner for your hair and helps to grow your hair. Mix the henna powder in the form of a paste with the help of curd or lemon and simply apply on the hair.

5. Shampoo

Once the hair mask is dried or after 40-50mins, wash off the mask with plain water. The rinsing will be easy as the hair as already well-nourished with oils. Next, move on to the main process of shampooing the hair. Try and use a SLS and PARABEN free shampoo which is mild and easy on the hair. Using a harsh chemically enriched shampoo means whatever effort you gave would go down the drain and the hair will be frizzy, rough and unmanageable. Shampoo will cleanses off every layer of dirt, grime, dandruff or any other residual substances on the hair, including the hair oil and hair pack. Although, the hair would retain the benefits for sure. One of the most important thing is that, rinsing off the shampoo is very important. A lot of people do apply it correctly and massage onto the scalp but forgets to rinse it out.

6. Conditioner

After the shampoo, apply the conditioner to the length of hair and keep it for around 2-3mins and no longer than that. Make sure the conditioner doesn’t slips onto the scalp and gets rinsed out properly after the shampoo.

7. Leave in Serum

This is the last step but I would call it optional. Since I have curly and dry hair, I always apply a leave in serum to make it manageable and frizz free but it is completely up to you. Also, I would not advise this step if you have thin and flat hair because it may weigh the hair down as the hair has already been conditioned since step 1.

These are the ways you can easily carry on the hair spa at home without shelling big bucks and also at our own convenience.

Editor’s Note: Absolutely loved this post Sanchita. This is the ideal procedure, wish I was not that lazy and time crunched :/ But even once a week or once in 2 weeks, following this routine would be amazing.

Image Sources: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8

Do you do hair spa at home?

Surprising Reasons Why Your Periods Might Be Late

Health, Lifestyle, Women, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Surprising Reasons Why Your Periods Might Be Late

By Pallavi

Hii Girlies,

Sometimes I feel life is so tough for us girls. It’s not that I feel we are unlucky and tortured. I feel being a girl makes me strongly blessed and all. But we have to keep track of so many things. Normally what happens with me is that I always forget to note my period dates. I just calculate them on the basis of some or the other events and occasions.

But I am sure once in your lifetime you all might have got worried thinking that your period is late. Well, late periods are not a sign of pregnancy, though that is the first thought usually. A late period can be owing to a number of factors like –

1. Change in your daily routine – If you have switched cities or changed jobs or may be rising and sleeping time has changed then all these factors delays your periods too. And if this timing just matches to your ovulation timing then the delay chances are higher.

2. Stress – Maybe it is because of your exams or you’re some personal issues or some work conflicts. Your stress levels really have a effect on your period cycle. And this results in delayed periods.

3. Weakness – Basically if you are weak inside or your body doesn’t has enough amount of iron then your period will be definitely delayed.

4. Gymming – If you have recently started gymming then your periods are definitely going to be delayed. Because just when you start gym your body weight loss is much more evident. And this in turn will have an effect on your hormones. It will cause hormonal changes as a result of which your periods might be delayed.

5. Travel – Sometimes travelling, changes in time zone, places, water, climate,etc. also cause delay in periods.

6. Dietary changes – If you recently changed your diet pattern, then it is again going to have an effect on both your body weight and hormones. And these both will have an effect on your periods.

7. Hormonal imbalance – Most of the girls suffer from this health issue all their life without even being aware of it. Don’t trust me. Well, how many of you are aware of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). It causes hormonal imbalance which alters the level of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone in your body. PCOS also causes delay in your periods every month.

8. Sickness – Yes, if you are sick and taking too much of medications then that also hampers your ovulation cycle as a result of which you suffer from delayed periods.

9. New Medication – Sometimes if you have started any new medicine then that also affects your period cycle. Confirm from your doctor that this new medicine is not going to effect your period cycle.

10. A new birth control method – If you have started a new birth control method then that is going to affect your period cycle. It is going to have an effect on your hormones and hormones need time to adjust on that and thus your periods will be delayed.

So, these were some of the reasons of delay in your periods. Let me know if you know something more in the comments down below.

Editor’s Note: That’s an informative post Pallavi, loved it.

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

Did you know of all these reasons?

Sun Pharma’s #SuncrosSunscreen Review

Bollywood, Events, Lifestyle, New Launches, Skin care, Sunscreens, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sun Pharma’s #SuncrosSunscreen Review

Hi guys,

So I attended this very interesting launch last week of the all new Suncros Sunscreen. If you have ever been to a dermatologist and he prescribed you Suncros sunscreen, you already know about this brand and are wondering it is not new.

Yes, Suncros is already sold at pharmacies since 2005 and is also the most recommended sunscreen by dermatologists in India. It is available both OTC and on prescription, but since majority didn’t know about the brand, it is majorly sold on prescription. But now they have launched it commercially with the all new packaging.

Suncros is promoted by Sun Pharma’s branded prescription business and will now be co-promoted by the Global Consumer Healthcare business. It is the first sunscreen in India to be co-promoted and sold both OTC and on prescription.

And Dia Mirza is on board as Suncros’ Brand Ambassador. On the launch, we had a panel of dermatologists who busted quite some myths about sunscreen, I will share a few crucial ones:

  • Indian skin doesn’t need high SPF coz it already has enough melanin and needs UVA and UVB protection. So it is more important to check that in a sunscreen rather than SPF
  • Men needs to apply sunscreen too, they usually ignore and very less percentage of men in India use sunscreen
  • You need to reapply sunscreen even if you are wearing makeup, by dabbing the base lightly, reapplying sunscreen and then doing your touch ups.
  • Vitamin D deficiency has no link to using sunscreen. And even people with Vitamin D deficiency need to use sunscreen
  • You need sunscreen even if you stay indoors whole day or travel in AC car.

I personally came to know a lot of new things, I never used to reapply sunscreen when I had makeup on. Also sometimes skipped when in the house whole day. The most important thing I learned is Indian skin needs to check UVA and UVB and not SPF.

Suncros will be available in three differentiated variants that provide broad spectrum protection –

  • Suncros Aqualotion with SPF 50 for sensitive skin- Rs.395/- for 60ml
  • Suncros Aquagel with SPF 26 for oily skin- Rs.345/- for 100g
  • Suncros Soft with SPF 50+ PA+++ in matte finish for all ages that provides 8 hour substantivity- Rs.545/- for 30g

The scientific and technologically advanced formulations of Suncros provides broad spectrum sun protection from harmful UV rays as they penetrate deep within the skin through the nanonized and micronized zinc oxide. For women who know the merit of a sound skin care regime, Suncros is going to make its presence felt in their daily lives while offering the am to pm sun protection they always needed. Suncros protects skin from the harmful effects of UV rays that causes pigmentation, skin tanning and premature aging that concerns most women across regions and age-groups. Not to forget the protection from the ultimate risk of skin cancer.

Ingredients:

We got the Suncros Soft with SPF50+ PA+++ in matte finish and I have been using it since the past few days. Here are my thoughts on it..

It comes in a tube form and doesn’t have any sort of smell. The product is thick and creamy and has a light yellow tint.

It is water resistant and has UVA/UVB protection. It is safe for all ages and for anyone to use from babies (6 months+) to adults.

It is silicony which makes it stay for 8 hours and also acts as a nice primer for your everyday makeup. It has completely matte finish and does not feel greasy or rich at all. Some sunscreens tend to sweat me out but this one definitely doesn’t. Also it is water resistant so the sweat won’t wipe off the sunscreen.

It is free from chemical sunscreen agents, some people react to a few chemical ingredients in suncreen and this would be perfect for them. The micronized zinc oxide is Suncros’ USP which penetrates through the skin and protects the skin from UV rays.

I think this will become my Holy Grail soon, I would anyday prefer chemical agents free sunscreen and which is no.1 Dermatologists’ Recommended product rather than cosmetic OTC ones.

I definitely recommend Suncros, it even comes in lotion and gel form if you have very oily skin or need it for body. And the fact that is  easily available at any pharmacy store, makes it even better! Must try!

Have you tried Suncros Sunscreen before?