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Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review, Indian Makeup Blog

Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review

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Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing the Sedona Lace Vortex Brush Set which I have since quite some time now, I got it around the time when I was shifting and I kept them safely somewhere. And the place was so safe that I just couldn’t find them :/ Happens with you too? Let me know in the comments below.

Anyhoo, I finally found them and have been using them since some time. I have even used them in a makeup tutorial which will be coming up soon.

What the Company claims: The Synthetic Vortex Collection exclusively designed by Renelyn Monteloyola of Makeup by Ren Ren for Sedona Lace. This pro line of brushes takes makeup application and technique to the next level. All of the brushes are multi-purpose and versatile. The pink and black colors on the bristles is a registered trade mark of Sedona Lace

MRP: $109.95

You can get the zipper belt at an additional cost of $10. So the brush set with zipper belt costs $119.95 (Buy HERE). I also have a special coupon code (without expiry i.e. lasts lifetime) for you guys where you can get $4 off on a minimum order of $15 on www.sedonalace.com , so if you want to buy just 1-2 brushes, still you can use that. The coupon code is ‘newlove’

I absolutely love the pink and black color to start with and that is a registered trademark of Sedona Lace. You get 13 brushes in total out of which one i.e. the angled brow shaper and spoolie is dual sided.

The brushes are all odd numbered from F01 to F23. Let’s start with the Face Brushes first.

FB01 is a jumbo fan brush which is the softest brush I have ever used! I just cannot stop touching it and it is perfect for dusting your powder or just cleaning your face or to apply highlighter on the high points of face, or your blush or contour.

FB03 is Tulip Contour Brush which is the perfect brush ever for contour coz it will perfectly fit in the hollow of your cheeks. Also this brush is great for diffusing your over done blush or highlighter or just give a final finish to the face.

FB05 is Dome Contour brush. It’s a multi tasking brush, apply your blush, contour or powders or powder foundation or buff in your high coverage cream/liquid foundations. This one will work with everything.

FB07 is a Flat Top Buffer Brush. Now flat top buffing brushes are perfect for foundations, be it cream/liquid/powder. Set your concealer with powder or use it on places to bake for precisely placing powders. Again multi purpose but best for foundations.

Coming to the eye brushes now,

EB09 is the Universal Blender brush which is good for applying shadows all over the lid and even blending for softer, diffused looks. Like a soft everyday brown eye makeup look or times when you just want to use one shade and sweep it across and blend the same.

EB11 is the Flat Synthetic Brush for applying metallic, glittery shadows and pigments on the lid i.e. mostly for patting shadows and not blending or sweeping them. Or even for applying your eyeshadow primer/base and concealer under the eyes. Also works to contour the sides of your nose.

EB13 is the Synthetic Blender brush. It has more dense and tapered bristles, it is absolutely perfect to blend your crease colors and create those dark smokey eyes.

EB15 is the Pointed Crease brush. It can be used for your cut crease looks or for looks where you don’t want to over blend or merge colors but just a softer edge.

EB17 is the Brow Spoolie Duo. Apply powder on the brows using the angled side and brush through with the spoolie to set it in place or diffuse the powder for a softer brow.

EB19 is the Bent Liner Brush. Now we do get it separately too in a few brands here like in Inglot and PAC Cosmetics. I had done a DIY long back with my Audrey Liner Brush by bending it a bit and the bent shape helps a lot in lining your eyes easily without getting in between the lashes.

EB21 is the Detailed Shader brush which is good for highlighting the brow bone or the inner corners or even smudging shadows on the lower lashline.

EB23 is the Angled Detailed Brush which can be used for gel liners or applying powder eyeshadows as liners on upper and lower lashline.

 

And lastly LB25 the Capped Lip Brush, it comes with a separate steel cap and can be folded and carried along. You can just remove the cap and place it below and use it like a normal lip brush. Good to carry along and precisely apply your lip colors especially the reds and deep berries which need precision.

So these were all the 13 brushes in the Vortex Synthetic Kit. I highly recommend getting the zipper belt if you are a makeup artist, coz the belt snuggly fits around your waist and you can pick up any brush you want and place it in the belt while working on a client.

And if you are just a beginner, you can go for this set without the belt. These brushes are all you will ever need for any makeup look. If you have these, you are pretty much sorted. I highly recommend these brushes and the quality is fabulous too. Super soft and the bristles hardly shed hair, majority of the brushes which I own as part of brush sets shed hair crazily!

Thumbs up from me, also if you can wait, they keep having offers on Black Friday, etc., where they sell these sets at half the price!! All the brushes from the set are pretty useful and it is total value for money. I did not have to pay customs on this. Shipping cost varies on distance and weight but they usually use USPS.

I personally love these and have been reaching out for these brushes quite often. I have 2-3 brush sets and none matches the Sedona Lace quality wise. It is very essential to have one good quality makeup brush set in your stash coz good quality brushes will make or break your entire makeup look. And if you invest in expensive makeup and the tools you use do not justify that, then the end result would not be good, trust me.

Let me know your thoughts on the Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Brush Set in the comments below.

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

My YouTube Fan Fest 2016 Experience, Vlog

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My YouTube Fan Fest 2016 Experience, Vlog

Hi guys,

So if you follow me on any of my social media, you know I went for the YouTube Fan Fest 2 days ago, thanks to Clean & Clear. I also got to meet AIB and Kaushal, was also going to meet Superwoman (Lily Singh) but got cancelled at the last moment 🙁 I also vlogged my day. Here is the vlog..

The Meet & Greet was 4-5.30 where I first met AIB guys and they were really sweet, Tanmay had a meeting and was not present for the Meet & Greet, missed meeting him.

And then later I met Kaushal from Kaushal Beauty, she is a UK based Gujarati Youtuber and is fabulous with her work, check out her channel HERE. She again was super sweet and I told her how I feel connected to her being a Gujarati Beauty Blogger since there aren’t many, and even she related to that.

I went to the Clean & Clear booth later, where they had fun activities. Like writing ‘What do people think of you as’ on a balloon and then bursting it, for which a GIF was created. And then they had a message wall where you had to write ‘My Pledge To Be Real Is..’

The Fan Fest show started at around 7.15 and it was broadcasted live. If you still haven’t seen it, see it HERE.

I loved AIB, SnG Comedy, EIC, Being Indian and quite a lot of them. But my favourite performace has to be Superwoman’s. It was at the end and what an amazing way to end the show. She gave a power packed performance and you had to hear the cheering from the crowd, it was insane! Second favourite was Sanam Official, love their band, love their songs, especially ‘Gulabi Aankein’.

Overall, it was quite fun and I loved being at the YouTube Fan Fest.

Faces Sparkle Dust Stackable Glitter Review, Swatches, Ways to Use

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Faces Sparkle Dust Stackable Glitter Review, Swatches, Ways to Use

Hi guys, If you remember Faces Cosmetics had stack of pigment eyeshadows, they had a different name earlier, they have relaunched it with a new name and they are called Stackables now, since you can stack 4-5 shades one upon the other.

These come in 4 different families of colors, Wild i.e. more greens and blues, Zeebra i.e monochromes grey, white, black, Whish i.e. loads of bright colors and finally Glitter which are all glitter pigments and mostly metallic.

I am reviewing the Glitter one today.

What the Company claims: This concentrated shimmer is especially handy when you want shimmery, sultry eyes or to create unforgettable drama. Available in stacks of inspired color themes to help you create the most unique and stunning look.

MRP: Rs. 899/- (Available for INR 764 on Nykaa but currently OOS)

While the rest stackables have 5 shades and are priced at 799, the Glitter one has 6 shades and priced at 899.

I love how they are perfectly stacked one upon the other and you cannot misplace any shade as all have to be together since the base of one pigment jar is the cap of the other. Which also means you cannot carry them individually :/ I would have loved if they came with additional separate 4 caps to carry them individually too.

I absolutely love each and every shade in this Glitter Stackable, there are numerous options you can do with this.

Silver- True cool toned silver

Gold – Warm bronzy gold

White – My favourite, pure white with blue green duochrome effect.

Sky Blue – True Sky Blue mixed with a bit of silver

Plum – Aubergine Plum with gold

Deep Navy Blue – Deep Navy Blue with silver

What I love most about these is that the glitter is very finely milled and not at all chunky, it’s not like thick glitter much visible to eye and you cannot feel this. This feels soft and almost like a powder, even though it’s a glitter.

L-R: Navy Blue, Plum, Sky Blue, Silver, Gold, White

Numerous ways in which you can use these pigments:

1. As an eyeshadow obviously. You can dampen your brush with a makeup setting spray, take the pigment and apply directly on the lid.

2. Use glitter glue/Duraline and make an eyeliner with it, you can make 6 different colored eyeliners.

3. Mix with clear nail paint to get colored glitter nail paint. I would suggest taking some in an empty nail paint bottle or some base as you don’t want to mix the complete nail paint with single glitter option when you can try multiple options every time 🙂

4. Make only one figure glittery like the ring finger, I love doing this and as you can see I have done that above.

5. Try glitter french manicure by applying clear top coat on the tips and dipping them in glitter.

6. You can also use the white glitter one as highlighter, the matte sparkle dust in pinks/plums as blushes.

7. Use the white to highlight cupid’s bow too and mattify your pink/purple lipsticks by just dabbing some matte pigment on top. It will also make the colors look vivid and makes the lipsticks stay longer. A makeup artist tried that once on me during a shoot and the lipstick stayed much longer and I loved how vibrant and matte it looked.

There are endless possibilities with pigments and glitters in makeup. Experiment and have fun, my most favourite ways of using are definitely as eyeliner and single nail with glitter.

I would definitely recommend getting the Faces Stackables, the color option is something that depends on your personality and kind of makeup you look. If you are more into basic smokey, go for Zeebra. If you love colors, go for Whish while the Glitter one definitely has multiple uses and can work for everyone. Also I would suggest buying it from Nykaa only when it is on discount, coz  INR 764 is a great deal.

What about you? Do you like playing with pigments?

March 2016 ‘More Power To You’ Fab Bag Unboxing & Review

Body Scrub, Fab Bag, Lipsticks, Nail Paints, Nyassa, Nykaa, Reviews, Shampoos, Wella, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

March 2016 ‘More Power To You’ Fab Bag Unboxing & Review

Hi guys,

I just now got the March Fab Bag, it’s the ‘More Power To You’ Women’s Day/Month theme.

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

It’s a metallic silver textured bag and I knew the Sugar Cosmetics Matte Lipstick is a part of the bag coz I saw it on their Instagram page and assumed it would be this brand.

Let’s see what all I got:

  • Sugar Cosmetics ‘It’s A Pout Time’ Matte Vivid Lipstick in 03 Mad Magenta (Full sized)- Rs.599/-
  • Wella Professionals Elements Shampoo (30ml)- Rs.175/-
  • Wella Professionals Elements Conditioner (30ml)- Rs.200/-
  • Nykaa Strawberries & Cream Nail Enamel (5ml)- Rs.149/- for 10ml
  • Nyassa Tiramisu Body Scrub (30g)- Rs.900/- for 200g

I really like the Wella Pro Elements Range, read my review HERE. It is SLS and paraben free and perfect for colored/treated hair, this deluxe sample size is perfect to try out and/or for travel.

I am loving the Sugar Matte Lipstick, love their Matte Crayon too, so was looking forward to the lipstick. Quite excited to try that out. It comes in this magenta pink shade, a muted berry, a nude and a coral.

I have 3-4 of Nykaa nail paints and they are quite decent, I love this summery shade and would definitely be wearing it.

The Nyassa Tiramisu Body Scrub smells amazing, but since it’s a body scrub, this 30g sample would only work once.

Overall, I would say it’s a mixed bag, not a must have but pretty decent if you are into matte lipsticks and wanted to try the Wella Pro Elements Range, a nail paint and bag are added bonus 😀

The value of the products come to around Rs.1200/- which is still not bad and the deluxe sizes are decent too.

What did you get in your March Fab Bag? Do let me know in the comments below.

Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Colour Poetry Pink Review, Swatches

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Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Colour Poetry Pink Review, Swatches

By Ishleen

Hello munchkins!

I know its been quite some time since I spoke to you darlings, and I am so sorry for the long disappearance! But today I am here to make up for my absence with this gorgeous review of one of my first and my most favourite matte deep pink lipsticks! I mean this was the first ever deep pink lipstick I ever owned, and I do not know why I had stopped using it as of late! But with the responsibility of reviewing it, I finally got a chance to use it again, and fall in love, all over again!

What Coloressence says?

Mesmerising Lip Colour, a unique combination of coriander and basil extract. This lip colour nourishes, protects, moisturizes and is hypoallergenic. Volumises the lips.

Ingredients:

Although the full ingredient list was not mentioned but the active ingredients are mentioned here!
Almond Oil, Vitamin E. 100% Vegetarian. No animal ingredients used!

Price and Quantity: 175 INR for 4 grams of product (pretty cool, huh?)

Packaging

Packaging wise, coloressence lipsticks have never impressed me much but this lipstick still looks pretty classy for the price it comes at! It comes in a very sturdy m ate black packaging with silver detailing and a functional silver bullet! The packaging is all in all really sturdy, and elegant, so thumbs up for that!

Shade

As I said, the shade is love at first sight! Such a pretty wearable deep pink which isn’t bright but still adds warmth to your skin! The shade is precisely a deep red-toned pink which does not look OTT even during day time and is pretty wearable for Indian skin tones! A perfect deep pink for beginners.

Texture

Texture wise this lipstick is a dud! Excessively dry, tugs on the lips, settles into fine lines and application is a nightmare! I mean it is so dry that I have to pull it across my lips in order to cover the entire lip line! Settles into a completely matte finish but makes the lips look parched! I mean looking at the shade, this rough texture is really sad to work with!

Pigmentation and Coverage

Despite being excessively dry and all that shizz, this pretty baby is bang on pigmentation! Loade don colored pigments which impart a full blown colour in just two tugging swipes! And is fully capable of covering up any pigmentations in 3 swipes max!

Staying Power

As this lipstick has a matte finish, it is relatively long staying! Though I wouldn’t say that it does not transfer, because it does, but that is unnoticeable! Thus giving a wear time of a good 5 hours before smudging off the edges and leaving behind stained lip look!

Pros

Lovely colour
Sturdy, elegant packaging
Full on pigmented
Covers lip pigmentation
Stays put for 4-5 hours straight

Cons

Excessively dry texture
Settles into lip lines
Makes the lip look parched
Does not apply well

Final Recommendation

If you are a hardcore matte lover and do not mind your lipsticks to be drying and shizz, you are going to love this gorgeous little deep pink matte lipstick!

Rating: 3.7/5

Editor’s Note: That’s such a pretty shade, would work on all skin tones from fair to dusky. It’s a perfect Priyanka Chopra kind of shade, she wears such brick reds and deep reddish pinks.

Have you tried Coloressence Lipsticks? Which is your favourite shade?

Trending Beauty Hacks That All Lazy Girls Should Know

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Trending Beauty Hacks That All Lazy Girls Should Know

Sadly girls today don’t find much time to indulge in relaxed beauty services at home due to demanding work-life balance. With these simple yet quick beauty hacks, it’s possible to look your best without feeling guilty and out-of-date.

So here you go lazy girls, incorporate these effective beauty hacks, without all the time and effort in the world!

Brighten up your tired eyes

A little bottle of mascara cab does the trick. If you are suffering from puffy/swollen or sleepy eyes? Mascara application can immediately brighten your face.

Define your bushy eyebrows

If your busy schedule as well laziness has resulted in bushy and unkempt eyebrows than simply swipe two coats of clear mascara. It will automatically hold and define your eyebrows.

Facial Bliss

If you are suffering from tired and dull skin and have no time for facials than simply get facial sheets. It’s easily available in the market, are super effective as well as easy to use. However, if you have time over the weekends and are looking for a relaxed and professional service, try UrbanClap app for salon services at home. It is a one-stop destination for all urban lifestyle services.

Dry and rough toes

No time for pedicure? While taking a shower simply use pumice stone and say goodbye to dry and uneven skin. Do it regularly for a prolonged effect.

Fight disobedient hair

When your hair seems super messy and as usual you are running late for office, then making a top knot is the safest bet.

Perfume that stays effective for long

If you want your perfume to last longer, simply rub Vaseline on your pulse points before applying the perfume i.e. behind the ears, on the wrists and behind the knees. It will save you from having to re-apply.

Say no to dry hands and feet

Dry hands and feet can leave you embarrassed. Keep your moisturizer next to your bed and religiously apply it before bedtime. Every morning you will wake up to soft and supple skin.

For effortless waves

If you have washed your hair but have no time for a blow dry then simply tie up your hair into a bun and let it stay like that. Once it’s dry just shake it and voila you achieve soft curls instantly.

Quickly dry nails

Painted nails can instantly make your hands look beautiful. However, on the other hand messy nail paint can be a big turn-off. To quickly dry nail paint, dip your freshly painted nails into ice-cold water.

Use in a shower gel combined with moisturizer

Applying body lotion can take a lot of time. In order to save on time, purchase a shower gel with moisturizer.

Fast and easy blow dry session

Blow dry your hair upside down, not only it saves time but also adds volume to your hair.

Cover those roots

In order to get thicker mane as well to hide those incoming roots, it’s best to brush a little black eye-shadow onto your parting.

Concealer for dark under eye circles

Nothing looks worse on your face as compared to deep and dark under eye circles. A concealer can come handy to quickly achieve a flawless look.

Credit card usage

Applying eye-liner or mascara can easily turn into a messy affair especially when you are running late. Worry not, simply hold your credit card underneath your lashes, excess of product will stick to the card instead of your face and within no time you will get bright and beautiful eyes.

Achieve squeaky clean scalp

Baking soda has multiple uses. Apart from being used in kitchen, baking soda can also help you get rid of hair buildup. Just sprinkle a little amount into your shampoo and get light, clean and fresh strands.

Have fun while using these simple yet effective beauty hacks!

DIY Facial Serum for Night

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DIY Facial Serum for Night

By Sanchita

To begin with, I have extremely sensitive, acne prone, oily skin that is always on the verge of breakouts. Due to this reason, I avoid moisturizers (except for aloe vera gel) all my life. However, as I am approaching towards late 20s, I have been noticing that the texture of the skin looks very unhealthy and that natural glow is missing somewhere. Hence, I wanted something to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. After searching high and low for all the ingredients that works on acne prone skin without giving much trouble, I made this night serum for myself and to my surprise, I did work! I have been using it past a month and thankfully I observed some good changes in my skin. Firstly, it never broke me out and also nourished the skin. Secondly, it hydrates the skin throughout the night with getting oily or greasy. So, here goes the night elixir for acne prone skin.

INGREDIENTS:

  • Aloe Vera Gel – you can either take it directly from the plants and blend it smooth to have the gel consistency or simple buy one!
  • Jojoba Oil – Works wonder for oily acne prone skin. You can also substitute it for Avocado OR Almond Oil for preference.
  • Rose Water – either homemade or store-bought will work.
  • Vitamin E Capsule – easily available across the counter otherwise you can also opt for Vitamin E oil.
  • Sanitized Bowl – since it is a face product, it is better to have a sanitized place to start with and then transfer it to a dropper bottle or any container.

STEPS

Step 1
  • Add 1 tbsp. of rose water in the bowl.
Step 2
  • Next, add 2 tbsp. of aloe vera gel. Mix it thoroughly as both the ingredients have different consistencies and takes effort to blend well. You can also add 1 tbsp. if you want a runny consistency but I wanted sort of a slightly thicker one, so I added 2 tbsp.
Step 3
  • Add 2-3 drops of Jojoba Oil and again blend it in.
Step 4
  • Lastly, take out 1-2 Vitamin E Capsules and poke them to take out the oil. Add the mixture very comprehensively unless you see a uniform consistency without any lumps.
Final outcome
  • And Voila! You night serum is ready!

TIP: Do not make it in a large quantity because it is handmade and hence, the preservatives are missing. Make it enough for a week or two at the most.

FOR DRY SKIN – Since dry skin or mature skin needs more than just aloe vera gel, they can use shea butter or cocoa butter instead of aloe vera gel. They can also incorporate the essential oils like Almond, Rosehip, Grapeseed, etc. as per their own preference.

BENEFITS OF THE INGREDIENTS –

  • Vitamin E – Vitamin E is the main ingredient I would vouch for. It has excellent properties to revive and renew the skin cells at night. It treats the scars and marks on the skin due to ageing or acne. Being a great moisturizer, it nourishes the skin well without making it greasy or clog the pores when applied. It soothes and treats the sun burns and regular tanning of the skin. Most prominently, it make collagen that decreases the rate of aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
  • Aloe Vera Gel – this is the HG for every oily skin. Seldom moisturizers suit us and we always find our way back to this. Aloe Vera, known as “plant of immortality”, it has numerous benefits for skin. It moisturizes the skin, heals the scars and soothes the skin from acne and nourishes without any greasy layer which gets absorbed in a jiffy. It also lightens skin pigmentation and slows down the ageing sign.
  • Jojoba Oil – it is known to fight wrinkles, stretch marks and cellulite. With high amount of ceramides which cover skin cells, it hydrates and nourishes the skin like no other. Oily skin doesn’t go well with other oils but this is an exception. It is so light weight and gets blended very easily. It also has anti-bacterial properties that treats acne and allergies.
  • Rose Water – the beauty of rose water in indefinite. From toner to face packs, makeup setting spray to hydration – it can do everything. It treats acne, soothes the skin from sun burns, refreshes and invigorates and has many anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for sensitive skin.

Do let me know how you liked the DIY.

Editor’s Note: I swear by Vitamin E capsules, but they are so sticky and messy while applying. I guess the mix of rose water and aloe vera gel will make applying Vitamin E easier. Also I am all for essential oils, I love using them. Definitely trying this Sanchita.

Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 Review

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Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 Review

By Archana

Hi all,

Today, I am reviewing a sunscreen from the brand Nature’s Essence. They have a wide variety of products at very budget-friendly prices. All their products are made primarily with natural ingredients. This is possibly one of the cheapest sunscreens available in the market. Read on to know how the ‘Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60’ fares.

Products claims: SUNBAN is a moisturizing sun protection lotion which provides full spectrum protection to the skin from UV rays. The natural added extract protects the skin against suntan. Good for all skin types. Can be used on all skin types.

Key Ingredients: Aloevera juice, Turmeric extract, Basil Oil

Directions to use: Apply Sunban lotion on face, neck and other exposed parts of body before going out. Avoid contact with eye area.

Packaging: The sunscreen comes in a yellow squeezable tube packaging with a flip-open cap. Nothing fancy in the packaging but a basic functional one. Its convenient to be carried around in your handbag without any fear of leakage. But one thing though, the cap seems to be flimsy and it broke within few uses as you can see in the pics.

Texture and fragrance: The sunscreen is sandal-colored with a slightly thick and creamy consistency. It has a mild herbal fragrance which is not bothersome. The fragrance proves that it contain natural extracts unlike other sunscreens I have used which usually have a chemical smell.

My experience: I have always chosen sunscreens based on the SPF factor. But till now I have never heard of TPI factor. So I googled around a bit and found that TPI is Tan Protection Index. Basically SPF helps to protect the skin against UV rays, cancer and sun burns. Whereas TPI specifically helps to protect the skin from tanning. This was a new info to me.

So coming back to this sunscreen from Nature’s Essence, this has both SPF and TPI. It takes a little time to blend it in completely. Though it appears tinted, after applying there is no tint whatsoever and it gives a natural finish. Unlike other sunscreens, this doesn’t leave any whitish cast. I have oily-combination skin and I find it little heavy and greasy for use nowadays as summers have started. Within 3-4 hours, my face starts becoming oily. I think it might be more suitable during winters. Dry skin people can use it year around.

Now the strange thing that I have observed is, although it claims of TPI 60 and SPF 30, I am still getting tanned. I don’t know if it is just me or anyone else too felt it, but overtime of trying out different sunscreens, I have observed that those from higher end brands like Avene, Vichy, TBS, etc. or even mid-range brands like Neutrogena, Plum, Christine Valmy, etc even if they have lower SPF of 20, they seem to prevent tanning to a large extent, while those from budget brands, though they claim of higher SPFs, they fail to prevent much tanning. Am not sure about it, but I feel sunscreen is one product where the ones with completely natural ingredients might not really be effective. While we can opt for natural products in face washes, face packs, shampoos, etc., when it comes to sunscreens I don’t think they are much effective. Its just my observation. Please share your views and experiences with natural sunscreens in the comments below.

Pros:
* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.
* Has TPI along with SPF .
* Contains goodness of natural ingredients like aloevera, turmeric and basil.
* Suitable for normal-dry skin.
* Very affordable.

Cons:
* Might not suit oily/combination skin.
* Not much effective in preventing tan.
* Complete ingredients list missing.

Price and quantity: Rs.95 for 60ml.

Rating: 3.7/5

Verdict: Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 is a very budget-friendly sunscreen with natural ingredients. But the results are average and its not very effective in preventing tan. Maybe if you are spending most time indoors, you can try it. But skip it if you spend more time under sun or going on a vacation or beach holiday.

Editor’s Note: That’s a fabulous review Archana, from whatever little I have read, heard and interacted with dermatologists, they all say sunscreens are good for protection but they cannot prevent skin from tanning. I am not sure how TPI works but I haven’t heard of any full proof sunscreen which prevents absolute tanning when you are out in the harsh skin for a long time. I remember using the Avene SPF50 spray all over my body during the Beauty & The Blogger shoot and we were out in the super harsh summer sun from 11 to 3 and I get tanned super easily, the area of the skin within the clothes and the area exposed to sun went black and white literally, that tan took almost 8-9 months to go away completely! So to prevent tan, one has to be covered and protected all the time, sunscreen will only help in protecting and this one sounds good for winters or for dry skin.

Sorry for the long rant 😀

Have you tried the Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60?

Essence XXXL Long-Lasting Lip Gloss Matt Effect Velvet Rose Review, Swatches

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Essence XXXL Long-Lasting Lip Gloss Matt Effect Velvet Rose Review, Swatches

By Ishleen

Hello girlies!

Starting this post with a quick question! Apart from the conventional Indian market brands, have you tried any German based brands, and if yes, were there any that you fell madly, deeply, strongly in love with? Well, if someone asked me this, I would scream at the top of my lungs that I am heads-over-heel sin love with Essence! And I am so thankful to Indian markets for having accepted this cute little brand so warmly and making it available for us Indian makeup addicts! I mean they are so affordable, such good quality and have such a vast range of products that you just cannot ignore it!

So today I am reviewing one of my most beloved lip creams from the house of Essence!

Product Description: Essence describes this gorgeous artefact in the following expression. “Matt=a must! If you love this lip trend, the velvety-matt, long-lasting lip glosses are ideal for you! The light, mousse-like texture lasts on your lips for several hours without drying them out. Particularly easy to apply, thanks to the flat applicator.”

And man, oh man! Did they exaggerate even once while writing their product claims? I am afraid, not! Ok, agreed that the lip creams do not give the matte effect that the claim talks about, but apart from that—the product is a treat to have!

MRP: Rs.279/- for 4.5ml (BUY HERE)

Packaging, price and Quantity!

The lip creams come in nice long cylindrical tube like packaging which are made of see-through material which makes the shade selection a breeze if you have more than a single shade form the line! Nothing too fancy about the packaging, tbh! Just a regular lip gloss kind of packaging but the fragrance of the product—oh god! I cannot even begin to start praising the sweet vanilla-ish fragrance that this lip cream has! I mean, for 279 bucks you get 4.5 ml of heavenly scented goodness! Trust me I’ll purchase it again and again for the fragrance alone! It is such a mood up lifter, truly!

Shade!

I prefer my lip products very subtle and under stated, and did this particular shade did not let me down even once! On first look (and application) it seemed a bit too light for me and most warm Indian skin tones, but the shade is so workable and can be used as a top-up shade for nude lipsticks which can make the lips look all the more plump and luscious kind of soft! To be honest, the shade is a pale pink with warm undertones and can be used as a perfect nude for lighter skin tones—but for women of colour it can be worked up to lighten your blood lipsticks or to intensify a nude shade!

Texture and Finish of the lip cream!

If you have ever known a soft-matte finish lip cream which is so velvety to apply and feels as if it was whipped up especially to make your lips look luscious—you know what exactly XXXL Long Lasting feels on the lips! The texture literally feels velvety and has a whipped up, almost airy-light-weight formula! One let down to this lip product is that it is not matte—not at all matte! Ok, I can give it a pass by calling soft-matte, almost velvety finish but matte? Not really!

Pigmentation, Coverage and Staying Power!

Not the most pigmented of the lot, but the lip cream is sort of medium coverage! The good point is that it is totally buildable, so there are chances that pigmented lips can give this a try! Though I would recommend using a deep nude lip liner or any lipstick underneath to make the shade work for deeper Indian skin tones!

Staying Power!

To be honest, the lack of mattifying effect, it does transfer very easily so it does not stay put for a very long time! But it can easily get through 3-4 hours with light snacks and drinking (with straw, of course)! The best part is that it fades very evenly, and does not crumble or get accumulated in the corners of the mouth! So this is a win-win! <3

Pros:

Creamy, air-whipped texture
Velvety matte finish
Medium coverage
Stays for 3-4 hours
Makes the lips look lusciously soft and plump
Nice packaging and flat applicator

Cons:

Not the most pigmented
A little pale for Indian skin tones

Rating: 4.8/5

Would I recommend: Definitely yes! If not this particular shade then at least try some other one, but definitely do! The texture and quality is really amazing!

Editor’s Note: I have this one in the shade ‘Silky Red’ and love it, although would have loved better staying power coz I have tried numerous matte lip creams with better staying power later, but for the price it’s really nice. Well reviewed Ishleen 🙂

Have you tried the Essence XXXL Long Lasting Lip Gloss yet?

Curatio Fash Anti-Acne Face Wash Review

Anti Acne, Face Wash, Lifestyle, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Curatio Fash Anti-Acne Face Wash Review

By Archana

Winters are almost getting over and sunny days have started. I can feel my skin which suffered from excessive dryness during winters is going to back to its usual oily-combination self. When it comes to face washes, I was using more of creamy cleansers during winters. But now I have to change them to a more deep-cleansing face wash which can control oil for a longer time. Thanks to Bhumika, I got to try this Fash Face Wash from Curatio at the right time. Read to know whether it is a hit or a miss.

Product Claims: Fash Face Cleanser is an innovative approach to healthy skin, which regulates the skin ecosystem. With its specially developed formulation, Fash helps remove dirt, dead cells and excessive oil without leaving skin feeling dry. Regular use of Fash cleanser helps maintain clean, youthful and radiant skin.

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Wet face with water, pour sufficient quantity of Fash face cleanser on palm, develop a rich lather, and gently massage on face for 2 minutes. Rinse off. Repeat if skin is very oily. Use 1-3 times a day.

Packaging:

The face wash comes in a sturdy plastic tube with a flip-open cap. The blue and white color graphics of the tube looks fresh and energizing. I have carried around the tube in my handbag and there has been no leakage or spillage. So packaging wise, the face wash looks good as well as convenient and travel friendly.

Texture and fragrance:

The face wash is blue colored with a mild, fresh, menthol-kind of fragrance. The texture of the face wash is one of the weirdest I have ever come across. It is gel-like and sticky.

My experience:

I have been using the face wash for the past two weeks and have been pretty satisfied with it. Except for the weird, sticky texture that I have mentioned above. When I squeeze the face wash into my hands, the gel just sticks to my hands. I have a hard time spreading it on my face as it just sticks to the skin, even though my face is wet. I need to massage well for it to work. It doesn’t create any lather as such. But on massaging for some time, the blue gel texture turns into bluish-white paste like a face pack. On the directions, it is mentioned that the face wash has to be massaged for 2 minutes. And I felt, it works well only when used that way.

Initially, I was using it in the usual quick way of applying and washing off like any other face wash and it didn’t work well. Also, owing to the sticky consistency, it becomes difficult to wash off as well and takes time to remove it completely. Even I have a hard time washing it off from my hands. While washing, if any gel accidentally drips into your wash basin, it sticks there as well and you have to scrub to get rid of it.

But for all this hard work in using a face wash, the results are very satisfactory. It deep cleanses the skin and removes all oil, dirt and gives a fresh look. Am not sure if it contains menthol or not, but it gives a nice cooling and fresh feeling just like a menthol-based face wash. It doesn’t dry out skin much and I don’t feel the need to immediately reach for a moisturiser, though that might not be the case with dry skin people. It keeps my face fresh and oil-free for around 4-5 hours which is pretty good. Also, as mentioned in the product claims, I feel that it removes dead cells too and the whiteheads which I used to get frequently are more in control now.

Pros:
* Deep cleanses skin and gets rid of all dirt and oil.
* Gives a nice cooling effect.
* Keeps face oil-free for 4-5 hours.
* Removes dead cells.
* Controls whiteheads.
* Doesn’t dry out skin.
* Mild fragrance which is not bothersome.
* Nice and travel-friendly packaging.
* Free from SLS and parabens.

Cons:
* Sticky texture.
* Difficult to wash off.

Price and quantity: Rs.190 for 100g.

Rating: 4.3/5

Verdict: Overall, Curatio Fash Face Wash is a good face wash for oily-combination skin especially in summers. It gives a nice cooling feeling, deep cleanses skin and keeps it oil-free for a long time. Only con is the sticky texture which takes a while to spread and then wash off.

Editor’s Note: Oo..this is something quite unique and interesting. I have never tried something like that, but since this is specially meant for acne prone skin and controls that, it will be a boon for acne prone people. Nice review Archana 🙂

Have you heard of Fash Face Wash from Curatio yet?