Tag Archives: Acne

B. Liv Spots Got Shot Review

B. Liv Spots Got Shot Blemish Treatment Serum Review 

B. Liv Spots Got Shot Review

Main Function:
Blemish & spot therapy + oil control

Blast those acnes away with Spots Got Shot! As an intensive acne treatment serum, it dries up acne, soaks up excessive oil, prevents acne recurrence, and removes dead skin cells. No more acne and scars to endure, living you looking vibrant and well!

Color    : Slightly yellow
Scent    : Characteristic
Texture : Thick fluid type
Feeling  : Itchy and warm sensation

Directions to use :
1.    Use Spots Got Shot daily, morning and night, after cleanser.
2.    Tip on the affected or spotted area.

Ingredients: Purified Water (Aqua), Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Disodium Lauriminodipropionate, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Phosphates), Trimethylpentanediol / Adipic Acid Copolymer, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glyceryl Stearate, Lactic Acid, PEG-40 Stearate, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Zinc PCA, PEG-10 Stearate, Salicylic Acid (BHA), Polysorbate 80, Sulfur, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Propylparaben.

MRP: US$25.00 for 15ml

When I was asked to review B.Liv products..I was not sure..if they would suit me..coz they are meant more so for acne prone skin..though they have good hydrating products too..B.Liv is a part of Cellnique which is one of the best in skin care in the world.

Spots Got Shot is meant for acne and its scars..and it also secretes the excess sebum or oil in that area..and prevents recurrence.

Its a small tube..approx the size of a finger..and has a long cap..and a tiny nozzle opening.. its off white in color..no particular disturbing smell.

Pros:

1. It does work in lightening spots as claimed…but it takes time..a minimum of 10 days to see some result..do not expect overnight magic.
2. I get occasional 1-2 zits which leave scars behind..and this did work on them.
3. Since it gets absorbed fast and is to be only applied on affected areas..it can be used even in day time comfortably.
4. It does keep skin oil free for a few hours..but not longer.
5. Though it helps in clearing zits and the scars..it does not dry out the skin..like a few creams.

Cons:

1. Feels a little itchy for a few minutes as mentioned by them.
2. Lots of chemicals and parabens in ingredients.
3. Available only online. You can buy it here.
4. Expensive.

Overall I think its good for people getting occasional zits..but if anyone is suffering from acne..I would not recommend this..but some medicated lotion…does take time to clear spots though.

Rating:

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

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Would I buy it again: May be

P.S: Product sent by brand for review but it has not affected my opinion.

Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream Review

I read about this on Cynthia‘s blog first and was quite impressed with the product..and also that it was only available in UK..and coincidentally my friend was returning from UK around the same time..I told him to get this.

Later Tanveer bought it from Alpha in Mumbai..glad that its available here..in case I need it again 🙂

About Sudocrem: Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream was created almost 80 years ago and has been used by millions of mums, dads and healthcare professionals ever since to treat the sore skin caused by nappy rash.
Sudocrem is clinically proven to help by soothing, healing and protecting your baby’s delicate skin.
Did you know that Sudocrem is not just a nappy rash cream? It can also be used to treat cuts and grazes, sunburn, minor burns, acne and bedsores. It’s a very useful pot to have around!

Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream is gentle, so it won’t sting on application. It can reduce the risk of infection and contains a mild local anaesthetic to soothe pain. It also helps a wound to heal and forms a protective barrier over the vulnerable area. In other words, it’s a very useful tub to keep around the house!


It has also worn many awards as nappy rash cream, best baby care cream and various reader’s choice awards.

Directions for use:

Step 1: Start by putting a little on the tip of your finger – always remember a little Sudocrem goes a long, long way.

Step 2: Gently massage Sudocrem into the skin using light, circular movements (don’t rub, especially if the skin looks sore).

Step 3: When you’re finished, there should be a thin translucent film left on the skin. If the area stays white, you’ve put too much on!

Step 4: Add more Sudocrem to the area as often as you need to.

MRP: Around 4-5 £..Rs. 375/- here for 125g

Ingredients                        % (w/w)            Properties
Excipients                          79.2%         water-repellent base
Zinc oxide, EP                   15.25%       astringent, soothing, protective
Lanolin (hypoallergenic)       4.00%       emollient
Benzyl benzoate, BP           1.01%        pesticide
Benzyl alcohol, BP              0.39%       mild anesthetic, disinfectant
Benzyl cinnamate                0.15%       antibacterial, antifungal

It comes in both tube and tub form depending on the qty. Its a thick white cream which is to be massaged on the affected area so that it disappears and forms a thin transparent layer. I use it only at nights..its a little thick to be used in day time on the face.

Pros:

1. Love how mutipurpose this is..from rashes to acne to mosquito bites..this works on everything.
2. It has a light lavender fragrance which is quite nice.
3. Reduces redness, irritation and pain as it has mild anesthetic too.
4. A little qty is required as less is more with this.
5. Decently priced for a big 400g tub.
6. Dries out acne in a day or two.
7. It has an expiry period of five years..so would last long.

Cons:

1. Availability is an issue with this..you would not find it everywhere.
2. As its a little thick I do not prefer using it in day time.
3. It does not work for scars but then it does not even claim too.

Overall I think this is a must have for everyone..coz its a one stop solution for all the problems. Can be handy for everyone and everything. I quite like it and also the fact that its going to last me long.

Rating:

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

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would I buy it again: If need be,surely yes !

Related Posts:

Fab India Clove Acne Control Cream Review
Lacto Calamine Lotion Review- Classic and Aloe
Skin types

Source: 1

Fab India Clove Acne Control Cream Review

Fab India Clove Acne Control Cream Review


I don’t suffer from acne…but I do get 1-2 of it during that ‘time’ of the month..and sometimes during exams..coz of stress and improper sleep and diet..it immediately shows up on my face..
I got this Fab India Acne Control Cream 2-3 months back…

What the Company claims : Made with a unique formula using the antiseptic properties of clove oil and tea tree oil, this light whipped cream helps control pimples, acne and blemishes. It also revitalizes and stimulates the cellular activity of skin. Recommended for oily skin but suitable for all skin types.

MRP: Rs 225/- for 100 ml

Key Ingredients: Purified water, Clove oil, Tea tree oil, Allantoin and Cedarwood oil.

Directions for use : Wash face with lukewarm water. Apply cream on affected areas and gently rub in. for best results, use twice a day.

Its very light yellow in color…has gel like texture and a strong clove smell…and the moment you apply it..be mentally prepared…IT STINGS !! :p And the strong clove smell would also burn your eyes a bit. But that goes after 4-5 mins,

But nevertheless it does work on acne,clears it up without leaving marks. I apply it at night after washing my face with the Fab India Tea Tree Facewash

Pros:
1. Does what it claims..controls and helps clear up acne.
2. Has a light texture and gets absorbed in the skin…its to be rubbed in for 1-2 mins.
3. Does not leave behind acne marks.
4. Packed with a cap.

Cons:
1. Comes in a glass jar.
2. All ingredients not mentioned.
3. Has a strong clove smell.
4. It stings…so people with sensitive skin better stay away.
5. Expensive at Rs 225/- as this much qty is not required and they should come up with smaller pack.

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Would I buy it again: No…this will last till October 2011…and I know I am not even gonna finish this up..most of the times I run away from this as it stings :p And I also use a lotion called Erytop which works equally for me.

Have you tried any acne control cream ? What works for you ? 

Related posts: 

Lakme Honey and Avocado Winter Perfect Day Lotion Review 
Vaseline Intensive Care Total Moisture Lotion Review 
Garnier Body Cocoon Review 
Garnier Light Daily Moisturising Lotion Review
Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream Review

Lacto Calamine Lotion Review- Classic and Aloe

Lacto Calamine Lotion Review- Classic and Aloe


I have been using Lacto Calamine from the last 4-5 years and can easily say its my HG..it is one product I cant live without. I have three of these right now too :p
I have used both the Classic (normal to oily skin one) and Aloe Moisturiser (dry to normal skin one).I will state the ingredients and exact difference between both of them. It is a light pink lotion with medium consistency.

LC Classic :

What the Company claims : Skinsurance. Daily use formula with balanced Kaolin and Glycerin. The goodness of Clay and Glycerin gives your skin : 1. Nourishment 2.Acne and Oil Control 3. Dead skin removal 4. Protection. Apply everyday for clear,beautiful skin.

MRP : Rs. 32 for 30ml, Rs.52 for 60 ml and Rs.72 for 120 ml (Both have same prices)

Ingredients : Aqua, Light Kaolin, Castor oil, Glycerin, Zinc Oxide, Zinc Carbonate, emulsifiers, preservatives, perfume and permitted colors.

Directions : Shake well before use.

LC Aloe Moisturiser :

What the Company claims : Skinsurance. Daily use formula with Kaolin and Special Moisturisers. Discover Skinsurance for dry skin. 1. Moisturisation 2. Protection 3. Dead skin removal  4. Acne Control. Apply everyday for soft, clear skin.

MRP : same

Ingredients : Aqua, Light Kaolin, Sorbitol soln 70%, Propylene Glycol, glycerine, Aloe Vera gel, Castor oil, Zinc Oxide, Zinc Carbonate, Simethicone, emulsifiers, preservatives,perfume and permitted colors. (highlighted ingredients different from classic)

Directions : same

Pros:

1. Clay, Glycerin and Aloe all are beneficial for the skin.
2. Keeps oil and shine at bay and does reduce acne with regular use.
3. Is tinted..so can be used daily to even out skin.
4. Reduces redness and soothes skin.
5. Helps in burns, insect bites,etc
6. It does help in dead skin removal and nourishment..I use it regularly but skipped it during my exams as I had no time at all…and my skin had gone all haywire…and with its regular use again it came back to normal. I just swear by this. This is the best thing ever made for me :p
7. Helps with cleaning up any makeup mistakes..I just dab some LC on a Q tip and clean out any mess..whether eye liner,lip liner or smudgy kohl..this cleans it off lightly.
8. Expiry date is 5 years from the date of manufacture..its going to stay long even if you are not a regular user.
9. The small bottle is absolutely travel friendly..you can carry it around anywhere.
10.Economical at this price.

Cons :

1. It is not moisturising enough. It leaves the skin dry and in winters I need a moisturiser over this but in summers I am fine with this. But dry skinned people will obviously need a moisturiser over this.
2. I personally dint find any difference in the Classic and Aloe one except the ingredients.
3. Those who like a dewy effect on the skin would not like this as it gives a matte effect. (I love that :p)
4. If not shaken well…the liquid would separate and that would come out first as it has a wide opening.

Overall rating- 5/5

Would I buy it again- YES..forever and ever ..:D

Do you use LC ? Do you like it ?

Related posts:


Fab India Clove Acne Control Cream Review
Lakme Honey and Avocado Winter Perfect Day Lotion Review
Vaseline Intensive Care Total Moisture Lotion Review 
Garnier Body Cocoon Review 

Skin types

It is very important for us to know the type of skin we have before buying or using any products on our skin..just like a doctor needs to examine the disease or problem before prescribing any medicines. Many people end up buying the wrong products or some which are not at all meant for their skin.
Source

Skin is basically of three types i .e normal,dry and oily. But there are sub types like combination skin and sensitive skin.                                                                                        

How to determine your skin type :

  • Wash your face with a mild face wash and pat dry.
  • After 2-3 hours dab a tissue on your face concentrating more on the T zone i.e your forehead,nose and chin.
  • Check the tissue and see the following

If the tissue has no trace of oil and your skin feels stretchy,you have dry skin.
If the tissue has traces of oil all over and your skin tends to shine,you have oily skin
If the tissue has no trace of oil and you are comfortable in your skin,you have normal skin.


Now some ppl see traces of oil in some part of the tissue and nothing on the rest,they probably have combination skin which is the most common type. Combination can be oily-normal or oily-dry with oily skin generally on the T zone.
Some people have sensitive skin which reacts easily to some ingredients in the products or some cosmetics. They have to take care of their skin the most. They cannot experiment with products and should stick to natural remedies which suit them well.

Features of different skin types :

Dry skin- It is unable to retain the right amount of moisture. It always appears parched and papery and feels tight and stretchy. One benefit is that this type is less prone to acne but it also gets easily chapped especially in a cold weather. Skin often flakes and it requires frequent moisturisation and a good night cream too. Dry skin if not properly cared for would be more prone to premature fine lines and wrinkles.

Oily skin- This type has over production of sebum by sebaceous glands of the skin. It is excessively oily and greasy and attracts more dirt and dust than the dry skin leading to pimples,blackheads,whiteheads,etc. And thats why the pores should be kept clean by following the cleansing method properly. Washing face with water to keep oil at bay would be recommended but plain water as excessive use of face wash harms the moisture content of the skin. Oily skinned people age more gradually than dry skinned.

Normal skin- This is the best type possible. It has a perfect balance of  oil and moisture and there are no dry flakes. The skin is smooth and soft in appearance. But due care should be taken to maintain the suppleness of the skin.

Source

Combination skin- Here some areas like the cheeks have dry skin and some areas like the T zone have oily skin. Both these areas should be cared for according to their types. But now many products are coming out in the market which are especially made for combination skin like the Neutrogena Oil Free Moisture for combination skin.                                                                                            

Sensitive skin- This type of skin gets irritated very quickly and reacts to certain chemicals or strong scents in some cosmetic products. Even waxing,bleaching,tweezing,etc affects the skin and gives rashes.People with such skin should avoid chemicals and stick to natural products.

I would cover skin care and few tried and tested at home remedies in other post.

I have a combination skin which is normal-oily in summers and normal-dry in winters. And my skin is also sensitive to certain things especially waxing,threading,etc..so I need to take proper care of the skin for it not to react.

What type of skin do you have ??

Related Posts: 

Garnier Body Cocoon Review 
Vaseline Intensive Care Total Moisture Lotion Review
Lakme Honey and Avocado Winter Perfect Day Lotion Review 
Garnier Light Daily Moisturising Lotion Review 
Fab India Clove Acne Control Cream Review 
Lacto Calamine Lotion Review- Classic and Aloe

Dandruff – Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures

Dandruff – Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures

Dandruff is the condition where dead skin cells flake from the scalp. And this problem goes severe in winters coz of the dryness. It is said around 50% of the people have suffered from dandruff at some point in their lives.It is normal for dead skin cells to shed from the scalp but it causes dandruff when it starts shedding in thick layers.It may also be due to imbalance of our body function where our metabolism goes haywire.And that is also the reason why most people suffer from dandruff in their puberty or early 20s. It can be chronic i.e long term or due to some short term changes. It is more common in men and people with oily skin. And it may also cause acne on the face and neck especially the greasy dandruff.

There are two types of dandruff i.e dry and greasy.

1. Dry dandruff also known as Pityriasis-capitis is the condition of normal dry flakes shedding from the scalp. This occurs more in cold weather. It can be due to health, diet, stress, environment,etc

2. Greasy dandruff also known as Seborrhea Dermatitis is the condition where scalp is very greasy and the dandruff is thick,oily or scaly. This condition, if severe also needs medical attention and a dermatalogist should be consulted. In this condition scalp itches leading to redness of the scalp which may even cause scalp infection.

Symptoms :

  • Dry silvery white flakes           
  • Itching
  • Redness of the scalp
  • Inflammation
  • Hair Loss

Causes :

  • Improper Diet
  • Stress
  • Hard shampoos
  • Infrequent washing
  • Horomonal change
  • Excessive cold weather

Some natural remedies for curing :

  • The best and the most effective method for curing dandruff would be fenugreek (methi) seeds. Soak a handful of methi seeds in water overnight and grind them the next morning. Mix it with curd to get a liquid consistency and apply it on the scalp.Leave on for 30-45 mins and wash off normally. (I do this sometimes and guys THIS WORKS)
  • Hot Oil Therapy i .e massage the scalp with warm oil and fold it in a damp towel and leave on for 5-10 mins for the moisture to sink in. You can add 2 drops pf rosemary oil too.
  • Massage your scalp while oiling n shampooing with your fingers. This would increase the blood circulation on your scalp. You can also use an electronic massager like the one Parachute has. 
  • Applying a mix of lemon juice and vinegar (in 1:2 ratio) on oiled hair before a wash.
  • Avoid harsh shampoos.
  • One can use 2-3 drops of tea tree oil for the greasy dandruff.
  • Massaging scalp with baking soda before a wash.
  • Shampoos with salicylic acid also helps greasy dandruff. But do not use any anti dandruff shampoos more than once a week.
  • Apply a mixture of egg yolk and curd and leave on for 30 mins and rinse off.
  • Vitamin D i.e a bit of sun exposure also helps. 

 Phew..I felt like I was in the exam hall again :p
 Hope that helped.

Any other remedies you would like to suggest ? 

 

War of Face Washes- Himalaya v Pond’s v Fabindia and my HG

War of Face Washes- Himalaya v Pond’s v Fabindia

Ok..here is a quick comparision of the face washes I have tried. Precisely its Himalaya Purifying Neem Face wash (which I am using from last 4-5 years and yes you are right…this is my HG), Pond’s White Beauty Daily Spotless Lightening Facial Foam and Fabindia Tea Tree Face wash.

Lets start with Himalaya Purifying Neem…there is also a Foaming one in this which comes in a pump dispenser..I have tried that 1-2 times..but I feel this one is better and stick to it…

It is a light green color gel and it says prevents pimples and purifies skin in all skin types..

What the Company claims-A soap-free herbal formulation that gently removes impurities and prevents pimples. Enriched with Neem, well known for its anti-bacterial property that kills problem-causing bacteria, and Turmeric, which effectively controls acne and pimples. Use regularly for clear, soft, and pimple-free skin.

Directions for use-Moisten face, apply a small quantity of Purifying Neem Face Wash and gently work up lather with a circular motion. Wash off and pat dry. Use twice daily. Followup with Himalaya Herbals Face Moisutrizing Lotion.Use Himalaya Herbals Neem Face Pack once a week to rejuvenate and revitalize your facial skin.

MRP- Rs. 45 for 50 ml and Rs 70 for 100 ml (The Foaming one is for Rs 150 for 150 ml)

Ingredients : Exts. Nimba, Haridra
Inactives: Phenoxyethanol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate

Pros :
1. It leaves my skin squeaky clean without any dryness or stretchy feeling.
2. Using this regularly has helped reduce break outs.
3. It is very mild and gentle.
4. I love the refreshing smell and it wakes me up instantly.
5. I trust Himalaya with their products and it mentions all the ingredients.
6. The 45 ml tube is travel friendly.
7. Its cheap and a good value for money.

Cons :
1. The flip tube cap is a bit tight.

Umm…no other cons..I guess… I love it too much and come back to it always..I am going to buy this forever..but I do try other face washes in between.

Rating- 4.5/5

Would I buy it again- Yes yes….forever

Now the Pond’s White Beauty Daily Spotless Lightening Facial Foam…It is a  white creamy facewash…and just a bit is required as it foams a lot…it has Pro Vitamin B3

What the Company claims- Cleanses deeply for glowing and brighter skin. This gentle foam deeply cleanses and brightens skin, transforming your complexion to a radiant look you have always wanted. The foams unique formula reduces dullness and brightens skin, while washing away old and weary, sallow skin cells. Skin feels soft, smooth and sparkling clean.

Directions for use – Wet your face. Apply to face and neck and gently massage. Rinse off.

MRP – Rs 60 for 50 gm

Ingredients: Myristic Acid, Gylcerin, Water, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Palmitic Acid n Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, Glycol Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyquaternium-7, Niacinamide, DMDM Hydantoin n Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Perfume, Disodium Edta.

Pros :
1. It does lighten the skin a bit and gives that radiant glow.
2. A little goes a long way.
3. It is travel friendly.
4. It is cheap.
5. Smells nice.

Cons :
1. It is very drying…dry skinned beauties stay far away from this.
2. It gives that stretchy feeling and now I use it only occasionally to finish it off.

Rating- 3/5

Would I buy it again- No

And lastly Fabindia Tea Tree Face Wash…its a transparent gel…with a strong tea tree smell. Tea tree oil is supposed to be very good for oily skin, pimples, blemishes, uneven skin tone, body odour, dandruff,etc

What the Company claims-  An antiseptic face wash ideal for oily skin,containing tea tree oil and turmeric extract. Daily use removes excess sebum reducing acne and pimples.

Directions for use – not stated (You just have to take some and apply on wet face and neck and pat dry..as usual)

MRP- Rs. 125 for120 ml

Ingredients : Purified water,Tea Tree oil, Glyceryl Cocoate, Turmeric extract, Guar gum.

Pros :
1. I think it would be the best face wash for oily skinned people prone to acne or pimples.
2. Its not drying.
3. It leaves you squeaky clean and refreshed and even removes basic makeup.

Cons :
1. The smell…strong tea tree oil smell.
2. Its runny..so you have to be careful with this.
3. Can be drying if used more than once a day even for oily skinned.
4. The price considering it comes in a huge tube. They should come out with a smaller size.
5. It is not travel friendly as its a big tube.
6. It leaves a slippery feeling behind.

Though I have combination skin.. I use it occasionally whenever I break out..and it does help in that.I like most of the Fabindia products as they are quite effective.

Rating- 3/5

Would I buy it again- May be..if in case I break out or something.

So overall I am quite happy with my HG..my Himalaya Neem for my daily use.

P.S : I went for shopping at Pantaloons…got 4 T shirts and 1 nice pair of earrings..they are in gold color..and perfect for traditional wear..love them..

So which is your HG face wash ? And which do you like among these three ??

My Haul

Hello..I was so bored of studies and needed a break…so went to Fab India and Health and Glow today..
Did lots of shopping…got 2 kurtis from Fab India..and tea tree face wash and clove acne gel…
And other stuff from Maybelline, Aroma Magic, Lotus and Ponds…

See here…

Got Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner..
       Fab India tea tree face wash and clove gel
       Lotus kajal and lip balm in cherry
       Aroma Magic Mineral Glow Scrub
       Ponds white beauty face wash
       Maybelline dream matte mousse in peach satin
       Maybelline color sensational Lipstick My Mahagony
       Maybelline moisture extreme in Chestnut and Silver sand
     
There was an offer going on Maybelline lipsticks..buy 2 get 1 free….the SA there said she would charge for 3 and give 2 free which was anyways cost effective…so she gave me 2 Maybelline water shine lipsticks free…I got ice tea and fancy gold..

I wanted the chai latte quad and eye studio gel liner..but she said it was out of stock and would come by next week…

And this is how my mahagony looked on me..sorry for d bad lighting…:(

That was the haul..