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Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 Review

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Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 Review

By Archana

Today, I will be reviewing another product from the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow range which is the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25. I have already reviewed the serum (Read HERE) from the same range and I had been using this day cream together with the serum for synergic effect. Read on to know how it fares.

Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 Review

Products claims:

WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a breakthrough formulation from Lotus Herbals that lightens, whitens & brightens your skin tone.

* Lightens: It lightens skin’s tone by reducing uneven pigmentation.

* Whitens: It unveils visibly fairer skin by reducing dark spots.

* Brightens: It enhances skin’s radiance naturally.

Why Gel Creme: WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a revolutionary fairness solution that incorporates the advantages of a gel and a creme.

* Spreads easily on your skin.

* Advanced formula allows for better delivery of active ingredients.

* Good for all skin types including oily and combination skin.

How it works: Clinical trials show that the following plant extracts lighten, whiten and brighten the skin with 7 days of regular use:

* Grape Extract (Vitis Vinifera): Exfoliator – helps active ingredients penetrate into the skin.

* Mulberry Extract (Triter Penoids, Phenyl Flavones): Tyrosinase inhibitor.

* Milk Enzyme: Blocks melanin pathways.

* Saxifraga Extract (Epigallocatechin): Free radical scavenger & tyrosinase inhibition.

Why WhiteGlow?

WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening range is a breakthrough formula from Lotus Herbals. It comes with an advance formula that has triple action on skin – lightening, whitening & brightening. It is enriched with rare fruit and potent plant extracts that penetrate deep into the skin to provide enduring action. The result, your skin looks fairer, flawless and radiant. It is free from harsh chemicals, that generally have side effects.

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Use every day in the morning & evening all over face & neck after cleansing thoroughly with Whiteglow 3 in 1 Deep Cleansing Skin Whitening Facial Foam. For synergic effect, use in conjunction with Whiteglow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum.

Packaging: The day cream comes in a convenient, squeezable tube packaging with a grey screw cap. There is an outer carton box with all the details of the product printed on it. The entire packaging is compact and travel-friendly. I carry it in my handbag to office and use it in the afternoon for freshening up. There is also a bigger size which comes in a tub-like packaging. But, I prefer tubes over tub as they are more hygienic, so I got this.

Texture and fragrance: Now, actually I expected this to be a gel-based creme from the product name. But it turned out to be not a gel, but a regular cream. I don’t have any issues with that, but I feel that the name is misleading. Someone who is particular about getting a gel creme, might end up with this on seeing the name. Coming to the cream, it is milky white in color with a very light consistency. The fragrance is like the signature Whiteglow range scent, a subtle mix of floral and fruity.

My experience: I have been using this day cream in conjuction with the serum from the same range. The cream is very light and gets absorbed easily without leaving behind any greasiness or stickiness. It also hydrates the skin well, though very dry skin people might need something more. There is a light dewy effect which I love. Unlike other whitening creams, it doesn’t leave behind any whitish cast. It basically performs the role of a day cream well – moisturizes without making face oily and has SPF 25 for sun protection. But apart from that, I haven’t observed any other whitening or brightening effect. To test the efficacy of this, I stopped the serum for a week and was using only this day cream. And there was no visible results as such. I feel the serum and the night cream are the most effective ones in this Whiteglow range. If you wish to try only one or two products from this range, I would recommend only these two. The day cream and face wash can be used additionally for a synergic effect. But alone, they are not helpful much for whitening or brightening.

Pros:

* Light and easily absorbed.

* Moisturizes and hydrates skin well.

* Doesn’t cause oiliness or greasiness.

* Contains SPF-25 for sun protection.

* Gives a nice dewy effect.

* Compact, travel-friendly packaging.

* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.

* Doesn’t cause breakouts.

* Suitable for all skin types.

Cons:

* Parabens.

* No whitening or brightening effects as claimed.

* Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin people.

* Its a cream, not gel. Misleading name.

Price and quantity: Rs.99 for 20g and Rs.345 for 60g.

Rating: 4.2/5

Verdict: Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 is a good day cream for all skin types. It moisturizes skin well without causing any oiliness and also has SPF-25 for sun protection. Two things to be noted are – one, don’t get fooled by its name of gel, its actually a cream, but light in texture. Secondly, there is no whitening/brightening effect as claimed.

Editor’s Note: I really like the sound of the Lotus Herbals White Glow Range, nice review Archana 🙂

Best of 2015: Makeup

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Best of 2015: Makeup

Hi Guys,

After sharing the skin and hair favourites, it’s time for makeup. This year for me has been all about winged liner, no kohl, no gloss, matte bright lips. Here are my 2015 makeup favourites..

See my previous years’ favourites here:

Also check out a list of 18 everyday skincare and makeup products within a budget ofRs.5000/- with their reasons HERE

Click on the links to read reviews or see swatches..

Face:

Primer: Haven’t really used much of primer this year, but still love this Too Faced Primed and Poreless 

Foundation:

Liquid: L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Foundation, Revlon Nearly Naked, Za True White Liquid Foundation, Za Perfect Fit Liquid Foundation (Lovee it!)

Powder: The Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Loose Powder Foundation, Sheer Cover Mineral Powders

BB Cream: MUA BB Cream

CC Cream: Kaya CC Cream

Concealer:

Cream: Khuraira Age Control Concealer

Liquid: Maybelline Dream Lumitouch Concealer, Lakme Absolute Face Stylist Concealer

Pressed Powder/Compact: Lakme Absolute Face Stylist Compact, L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique, Maybelline White Super Fresh

Blush:

Cream: Oriflame Beauty Studio Artist Cream Blush, Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge,Illasmasqua Velvet Blusher Flirtatious, MUA Cream Blush

Powder: Deborah Milano Hi Tech Blush Rose Pesca, Illamasqua Powder Blush, MAC Bite of an Apple, Sleek MakeUP Rose Gold,Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush 

Contour: Sleek MakeUP Face Form Palette, Revlon Nearly Naked in Deep

Bronzer: MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer, Sleek MakeUP Face Form Palette, Lakme Absolute Sun Kissed Bronzer

Highlighter: Revlon Highlighting Palette in Bronze Glow, Rouge Bunny Rouge Seas of Illumination Highlighting Liquid Sea of Showers and Colorbar Illuminator Pen (Liquid), Lioele Jewel Mix Marble Skin Finish and Facefront Autofocus Flashlite Highlight Powder (Powder), Sleek MakeUP Glo Highlighter Peach Shimmer, Laura Mercier Illuminator Stick in Golden Honey Glow, MUA Undress your skin Shimmer Highlighter

Eyes:

Eyeshadow Base: NYX Eyeshadow Base in Skintone, Too Faced Shadow Insurance in Normal and Candelight (Best !), MAC Paint Pot in Constructivist

Eyeshadows:

Palettes: Sleek Makeup Eye & Cheek Palette in Dancing Till Dusk, Too faced Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Collection, Sleek MakeUP Arabian Nights Palette, Too Faced Shadow Bon Bons Palette, Maybelline Chai Latte Quad, Too Faced Naked Palette, Sleek MakeUP Sparkle 2 Palette, Sleek MakeUP Oh So Special Palette, Sleek MakeUP Showstoppers and Vintage Romance Palette, MUA Undressed,Undress Me Too and Heaven and Earth Palettes, Stila In the Light Palette (I haven’t tried Maybelline The Nudes or L’Oreal Paris LA Palette Nude yet, but both are pretty decent for the price and availability in India)

Singles: MAC Romp, MAC Bronze, Inglot Eyeshadow Refills (Have some 7-8..love all !),The Body Shop Color Crush Eyeshadows, Liz Earle Eyeshadow Chestnut, L’oreal Infallible Endless Chocolate and All Night Blue, Bourjois Intense Extrait Eyeshadow 7,Annika Maya Shimmer Powder, Ellis Faas Creamy Eyes, Stila Eyeshadow Diamond Lil, Illamasqua Pure Pigment Beguile, Colorbar Eyeshadows, Maxfactor Earth Spirits Eyeshadow Burnt Bark

Cream: Oriflame The One Cream Eyeshadows, Maybelline Color Tattoo Cream Eyeshadows (Bad to the Bronze is my fav), MAC Paint Pot in Constructivist, Faces Ultime Pro Eye Shadow Crayon

Eye Liners:

Gel: L’Oreal Paris Gel Intenza Gel liners, MAC Blacktrack

Pencil: Plum Goodness NaturStudio Kohl

Jumbo Liners: NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils

Liquid/Pen: Maybelline Colossal Liner this time (hands down)

Mascara: Maybelline Colossal Volume, Maybelline Falsies, L’oreal Volume Million Lashes Mascara, Oriflame Volume Build Mascara, Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Kohl/Kajal: MAC Powerpoint Pencil in Engraved, Lakme Absolute Kohl Ultimate, New Maybelline Colossal Kajal, Plum Goodnes NaturStudio All Day Wear Kajal, MAC Feline

Eyebrow: Maybelline Fashion Brow Duo Shaper

Lips:

Lip Primer: Too Faced Lip Insurance Lip Primer

Lip Liner: Bourjois Levres Contour Lip Liner Enjoleuse, Catrice Lip Liner

Chubby Pencils: Lakme Absolute Matte Lip Pouts, Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon, Faces Ultime Pro Matte Lip Crayons

Lipsticks: MAC Ruby Woo, L’Oreal Paris Pure Reds, Lakme Absolute Sculpt Matte Lipsticks, L’Oreal Paris Infallible Lipsticks, Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks, Maybelline ColorShow Lipsticks, Oriflame The One Matte Lipsticks, Colorbar Darkened Summer Matte Touch Lipsticks, Illasmaqua Glamore Lipsticks, Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color Rose Brown, Maybelline Bold Matte Lipstick in Mat 2, Avon Ultra Color Lipsticks, Shiseido Perfect Rouge Gilded Wine, MAC Lipstick in Cosmo and Speak Louder, Sleek MakeUP True Color Lipstick in Loved Up

Lip Matte Creams: Colorbar Kiss Proof Lip Stain

Lip Palettes: Sleek MakeUP Lip4 Palettes

Lip Gloss: (Did not use much of lip gloss this year)

Nails: Maybelline Colorshow, LYN Nail Lacquers

Perfumes/Fragrances: The Body Shop Red Musk EDP, Calvin Klein Eternity Now EDP

Makeup Technique: Strobing, Ombre Lip

What are your 2015 makeup favourites ? Do we share common favourites ? Let me know in the comments below.

Wella Professionals Elements Range Launch & First Impressions

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Wella Professionals Elements Range Launch & First Impressions

Hi guys,

A few ago I attended a new launch by Wella Professionals, the Elements Range at House of Tales in Kala Ghoda. It was launched by Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp and the Elements Range Brand Ambassador Nimrat Kaur.

Since it is all about green, forest and natural, the theme was white and green and the entire setup was white and green too. We were even sent a ‘Peace Lily’ plant invite in a white tea pot which is extremely cute and useful. I have kept it in my balcony 🙂

Wella Professionals introduced Elements to the Indian market ; it is the first Wella Professionals range of care products which are free of sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants. Wella Professionals has  also specially created a new fragrance, inspired by the green wood’s of the Amazon forest.

Wella Professionals Elements is inspired by nature to provide up to ten times more strength against breakage* for renewed hair vitality. Wella Professionals Elements protects the integral keratin structure, keeping your hair shiny and healthy, but without some of the chemicals usually associated with hair care products. Keratin is the principal component of hair – a protein which acts as the building blocks of the hair. If the keratin is degenerated, the hair will become weak and will lose its shine.

Sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants are commonly used, safe ingredients in hair care and have been extensively tested but some people wish to avoid them, so the scientists at Wella Professionals have developed the exclusive NuTREE complex.

The NuTree complex is enriched with natural tree extract – a powerful antioxidant which helps reduce free radical damage. Sustainably sourced in Germany, the natural tree extract also has anti-irritant properties to balance and calm the scalp.

The natural tree extract is joined by panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, which penetrates deeply into the hair to repair the inner keratin cell structure and bind moisture in the hair. The result is hair which looks smooth, healthy and is nourished from the roots to the tips.

Commenting on this addition to the Wella Professional range of Products, Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp said, “I think natural products have made their way back in fashion. People are becoming increasingly aware of the ingredients contained in the products that they use in everyday life– such as hair care products. As part of trying to live a healthy lifestyle, they are now looking for more natural alternatives which contain fewer chemicals, but do not compromise on performance.”

 

Nimrat Kaur talked about how she goes through a lot of heat and hair styling and dozens of chemicals in those hair styling products, on an everyday basis. And she would love to use something natural and free of chemicals as her scalp is quite sensitive and something that soothes and calms the sensitive scalp is perfect for her. She tried the Wella Pro Elements Range over her oiled, styled hair and was astonished by the results.

On the first row listening attentively like a student 🙂
With Vipra and Aditi

I have used it 3-4 times till now and here are my first impressions.

Claims: Renew hair vitality and reveal its natural beauty. Elements’ NuTREE complex helps to repair and protect hair from keratin degeneration and is perfectly suited for colored hair.

Renewing Shampoo Claims: Sulfate free shampoo that renews the moisture of the hair, preserving and nourishing it from root to tip. Exists in 30 ml, 250 ml, 1000 ml.

HOW TO USE: Apply to damp hair and massage gently into a lather. Rinse thoroughly.

TEXTURE: Luxurious foaming experience

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.975/- for 250ml

Renewing Mask Claims: Paraben free repairing mask that intensively restores and preserves the natural inner structure and strength of the hair. Exists in 30 ml, 150 ml, 500 ml.

HOW TO USE: Apply after shampooing. Massage and leave for 5 minutes. Rinse out.

TEXTURE: Extra lightweight cream

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.1075/- fro 150ml

It comes in a white bottle with green plant picture on the packaging. It is a flip cap bottle and let me warn you that it is not travel friendly. I carried it along on my recent trip to Jaipur and it messed up my entire bag :/ If we intend to carry it with you, make sure you tape or seal the cap, then you are good to go.

The mask comes in a tub packaging that is safe to carry around and easy to store and use.

The shampoo is transparent and slightly runny in texture. It has this woody, foresty smell which I really liked. It foams like nobody’s business. It will help you get rid of all the oil in one go, but if your hair is quite oily or dirty or if you are using hard water, you may need to shampoo twice. I had to use it twice in Jaipur with the hard water.

The renewing mask is thick and white in color and it has the normal ‘shampoo’ fresh smell. The mask is quite hydrating and nice, it controlled my frizz even in super cold climate.

Using both the shampoo and mask together gave soft, smooth, hydrated, frizz free hair. But make sure you do not use too much of the mask or it will weigh your hair down.

I am really happy that this range is sulphates and parabens free. If you have straightened/colored your hair or have gone for cysteine or anything such, this range is perfect for you as going sulphate free will keep the color/straight effect for a longer duration.

L- Mask, R- Shampoo

Plus sulphate free is anyway good for all types of hair, just that it takes a few washes for the benefit to show on your hair since the hair is so used to the normal sulphate shampoos.

Though the range is slightly on the expensive side, it is like an investment to maintain your color/cysteine.

Wella Elements is available in all leading salons across India such as Jean Claude Biguine, Affinity, Bodycraft, Toni & Guy , Strands, Tresslounge and Headturners.

What do you think about Wella Elements Pro? Which sulphate free range do you use? Will you try this range? Do let me know in the comments below.

Best of 2015 – Skin & Hair

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Best of 2015 – Skin & Hair

Hi guys,

So it’s the end of 2015 and we have seen many new launches this year. As I do it every year, it’s time to list down my 2015 favourites.

Also check out a list of 18 everyday skincare and makeup products within a budget ofRs.5000/- with their reasons HERE

See the previous years lists here:

Click on the links for complete reviews.

Skin:

Face Wash: Himalaya Neem Purifying Face Wash (Himalaya Neem is my HG and will be in my favorites forever), Avene Cleanance Gel, Bioderma Sebium Purifying Foaming Gel

Cleanser/Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water, Vichy Purete Thermale Micellar Water, Kaya Skin Clinic Hydra Cleanse 3 in 1 Makeup Remover

Toner/Mist: Avene Thermal Spring Water, Forest Essentials Pure Rose Water, Kama Ayurveda Pure Lavender Water and Rose Water, Vichy Thermal Spring Water, La Roche- Posay Thermal Spring Water

Moisturiser: Lacto Calamine, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Day Cream, Za Total Hydration Amino Mineral Refreshing Gel

Sunscreen: Vichy Capital Soleil SPF50+ Velvety Cream, Avene Dry Touch Emuslion Suncreen SPF50+

Serums:  Lotus Herbals YouthRx Serum + Creme, Vichy Aqualia Thermale Serum

Face Scrub: Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Daily Scrub, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Face Scrub

Face Pack: Kawar Dead Sea Facial Mask, Korean Sheet Masks, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Face Mask, Spinz Sun Tan Remover, Spa Ceylon White Jasmine Face Mask

Face Oil: Iraya Kumkumadi Tailam, The Body Shop Oils of Life Revitalizing Facial Oil

Night Cream: Lotus Herbals YouthRx Night Cream, Vichy Thermale Night Spa

Hand Cream: Marks & Spencer Bitter Orange Hand Cream

Body Wash: Aloe Veda French Lavender Shower Gel, The Body Shop Frosted Cranberry Shower Gel

Body Scrub: The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Scrub and Virgin Mojito Body Scrub

Bath Accessories: The Body Shop Bath Gloves, The Body Shop Facial Buffer, Natural Scrubber made with vetiver and bottle gourd roots.

Body Lotion/Body Butter: Palmers Cocoa Butter Body Lotion, The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Butter

Lip Balm

Tinted: Maybelline Baby Lips Spiced Up
Non Tinted:  Forest Essential Sugared Rose Petals Lip Balm, Burts Bees Lip Balm

Other: Kaya Purifying Spot Corrector, Lactacyd Perineal Wash, Proactiv Refining Mask (zaps pimples instantly), Biotique Chlorophyll Gel (Post waxing), Colorbar Stay the Day Finishing Mist (Keeps makeup intact and skin looking fresh whole day)

Entire Skincare Set: Lotus Herbals YouthRx

Hair:

Oil: Figaro Olive Oil, Dabur Vatika Enriched Coconut Hair Oil

Shampoo: L’Oreal Professionel Absolute Repair Lipidium, L’Oreal Professionel Hair Spa, Dove Oxygen Moisture

Conditioner: L’Oreal Professionel Hair Spa, Dove Oxygen Moisture

Deep Conditioner: L’Oreal Professionel Absolute Repair Lipidium

Serum/Leave in: Oleon Argan Oil, Kerastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Cream

Dry Shampoo: BBlunt Back to Life Dry Shampoo

Shine Spray: BBlunt Spotlight Shine Spray

Other Tools: Gillette Venus Razor, Braun Face, Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi

I am not sure if I missed anything, I covered it all 🙂 Let me know your 2015 skin and hair favourites in the comments below. Makeup favourites coming up next.

P.S: Image from Google

The Body Shop Christmas Special Frosted Cranberry Range Review

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The Body Shop Christmas Special Frosted Cranberry Range Review

Hi guys,

The Body Shop has come up with interesting gift packs for Christmas, and one of their new launches is the Frosted Cranberry Range.

MRP: Rs.995/-

It comes in this cute red gift box with cut outs and the top handle. It has a body wash, body butter and a loofah.

These are perfect for travel and make very cute gifts for your loved ones. The range has a strong sweet smell of candies & cranberries. The packaging is all red and Christmasy.

I like the body wash, the smell is not that over powering but the body butter is very sweet for my taste. I prefer subtle and fresh, citrusy smells when it comes to body butter. But the texture of the body butter is really light and it has sesame oil and is easily absorbed into the skin without any greasiness. It also has cocoa butter, shea butter, cranberry seed oil, soybean oil and beeswax, but still it is quite light.

Body Butter Ingredients

The loofah as all Body Shop loofahs is of really good quality and easy to use. Not very abrasive and perfect for light exfoliating and works great with any body wash.

Body Wash Ingredients

I would recommend smelling the products individually first before buying the entire box. I definitely recommend the body wash, but not really a fan of the body butter smell, though I love the light texture.

Also The Body Shop is running a Water Aid campaign globally.  The Body Shop and Water Aid are spreading happiness this Christmas with the gift of safe water. For every specially selected gift people will buy, The Body Shop will donate one day of safe water to a family in Ethiopia. So when you buy a gift box, you are also helping a family get clean and safe water for a day. Double joy 😀

Do check out the interesting gift packs at the nearest The Body Shop store or even online on www.thebodyshop.in

What do you think about The Body Shop Gift Packs? Do you like the Frosted Cranberry Range?

Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser Review

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Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser Review

By Archana

Lately, I was on the search for a good serum. I have never used serums before, but after reading a lot about the importance of a serum, I decided to get one. Since I was using mostly Lotus Herbals products in my routine, I thought of getting the serum too from the same brand. I have used the Whiteglow range night cream before and loved it. Not for the skin whitening claims but because it suited my combination skin well and didn’t cause any breakouts. So, I ended up with this Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening &Brightening Serum + Moisturiser finally. Read on to how it fares.

Products claims: WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser is a breakthrough formulation from Lotus Herbals that lightens, whitens & brightens your skin tone.

* Lightens: It lightens skin’s tone by reducing uneven pigmentation.

* Whitens: It unveils visibly fairer skin by reducing dark spots.

* Brightens: It enhances skin’s radiance naturally.

Why Serum: WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser is a proprietary formula which has 2x* more skin whitening and brightening power than a day creme. It comes with excellent carrier properties, penetrates deep into the skin & distributes the potent blend of all natural ingredients.

How it works: Clinical trials show that the following plant extracts lighten, whiten and brighten the skin with 7 days of regular use:

* Grape Extract (Vitis Vinifera): Exfoliator – helps active ingredients penetrate into the skin.

* Mulberry Extract (Triter Penoids, Phenyl Flavones): Tyrosinase inhibitor.

* Milk Enzyme: Blocks melanin pathways.

* Saxifraga Extract (Epigallocatechin): Free radical scavenger & tyrosinase inhibition.

Why WhiteGlow? WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening range is a breakthrough formula from Lotus Herbals. It comes with an advance formula that has triple action on skin – lightening, whitening & brightening. It is enriched with rare fruit and potent plant extracts that penetrate deep into the skin to provide enduring action. The result, your skin looks fairer, flawless and radiant. It is free from harsh chemicals, that generally have side effects.

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Use every day in the morning & evening all over face & neck after cleansing thoroughly. For best results, use before Whiteglow Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme.

Packaging:

The serum comes in a translucent, frosty, glass bottle with a pump. The pump has a small plastic cap to cover it. Lotus Herbals surely make all their packagings convenient as well as giving a luxurious feel. Since its a glassy bottle, one has to be careful while handling it. The bottle is housed inside a white carton box which has all the details of the product.

Texture and fragrance:

The serum is between a gel and cream, its translucent. The consistency is perfect, not runny, not thick to spread, just the right texture for a serum. It has a light fruity fragrance, similar to other products in the Whiteglow range.

My experience:

I have been using this serum in conjuction with the Whiteglow Day Cream. The serum is easy to spread and blends easily, without any whitish cast like other whitening creams. It takes a bit of time to get fully absorbed and till then there is a sticky feeling. It moisturizes skin very well and I don’t feel the need to apply a separate moisturiser. Though, dry skin people will need to follow up with a moisturizer. The finish is more dewy and my face looks little brighter and radiant. It doesn’t make my face oily or greasy even for a long time. My skin tone is more evened out and the pores on my face look visibly smaller. It also acts as a good base for makeup.

Coming to the claims of whitening and brightening in 7 days, it is true to an extent. But don’t expect any miraculous changes. It helped to lighten some acne scars and brown spots on my face. But I think it will take a long time and continuous use to fade them completely, unlike other specific spot treatment creams which work quicker. Also, it removed some tan and my face overall looked more healthy, supple and radiant. My only concern is, once I stopped it using for a week, just to check its efficacy, and my skin went back to normal state. So, to retain the effects, the product needs to be used completely.

But I feel, if you really need a whitening/brightening effect, instead of going for those Fair & Lovely, Fairever, etc, creams in the market, this is a relatively better option as it doesn’t just focus on fairness, more on brightening, tan removal and healthy skin and Lotus Herbals is also a trusted brand. Though their products contain parabens (which is the only thing I don’t like about them), they are mostly suitable for all skin types and none of their products have ever caused me breakouts including this serum. Also, I think, to get really good results, you need to use this serum along with the day cream and night cream from the same range.

Pros:

* Nice consistency and blends easily.

* Moisturizes and hydrates the skin.

* Pores look visibly smaller.

* Evens out skin tone.

* Makes skin healthy, supple and radiant.

* Brightens skin and lightens scars and spots.

* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.

* Doesn’t cause breakouts.

* Affordable price for a serum.

* Attractive luxurious packaging.

Cons:

* Parabens

* Takes a long time for the scars and spots to fade completely.

* Need to be continuously used to retain the effects.

Price and quantity: Rs.375 for 30ml.

Rating: 4.4/5

Verdict: Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser is one of the most affordable serums available and from a trusted brand. Though it doesn’t give any miraculous results, it does make skin more healthy, brighter and radiant and also lightens scars and spots slowly with regular use. Unlike other fairness creams, this is not overloaded with harsh chemicals. If you are looking to add a good affordable brightening serum in your routine, you can try this.

Editor’s Note: I always wanted to try this Archana, nice review. The product sounds really nice.

Have you tried the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum + Moisturiser?

Lever Ayush Therapy: Nature’s Healing Secrets

Ayurvedic, Hair Care, Hair Oil, Lever Ayush, Lifestyle, New Launches, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lever Ayush Therapy: Nature’s Healing Secrets

Hi guys,

I love using natural, organic products but nothing beats the ayurvedic products following the age old recipes and made with pure plant extracts and oils. For any of your skin, hair or body problems with which you have been struggling for days and tried it all, go back to the ‘Dadime Ke Nushke’ and you will see the results guaranteed!

Today we face a lot of problems due to our current modern lifestyle. Late working hours, meeting deadlines, being on our computers and cell phones almost 18 hours a day, it all takes a toll on the body. The results being hair loss, premature hair greying, dark circles, head aches, shoulder pain, back pain, water retention, lack of stamina, etc.

I am glad brands are going back to ayurvedic formulations and bringing products which are all natural and ayurveda has never failed in showing results. We have ayurvedic solutions for our skin/hair problems and pain management now. One such brand being Lever Ayush.

About Lever Ayush: Rapid urbanization, booming economy, new job opportunities and high disposable incomes in India have paved way for an affluent lifestyle. But they also put you at the risk of lifestyle diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, heart diseases etc. Through Ayush, this new generation of Indians can rediscover everyday health and vitality through customized Ayurvedic solutions.

LEVER Ayush Therapy range comes with some of nature’s healing secrets discovered by Ayurveda, almost 5000 years ago!

Lever Ayush range consists of products for skin, hair and pain management. They are based on authentic Ayurvedic formulations, where the rarest natural ingredients are distilled into the most effective Ayurvedic recipes. Lever Ayush introduces a range of personal care products that are specifically designed to solve skin and hair problems borne by the pressures of a modern day lifestyle.

Products Available:

HAIRCARE

Lever Ayush Bhringamalakadi Tailam

The oil serves the purpose of preventing premature greying and ensures that your hair grows long and strong for years to come. With carefully selected ingredients such as cow’s milk, Yashtimadhu, Bhringaraj, Til oil and amla juice, the oil not only prevents premature greying but assures that your hair gets its natural colour back.

Price: Rs. 599

Lever Ayush Hair Poshak Oil

When an individual is stressed, the body produces increased levels of testosterone which gets converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This DHT will interrupt the hair growth cycle because it restricts the blood supply to your hair follicles which means the amount of nutritional intake reduces, leading to the weakening of hair and therefore breakage. The Lever Ayush Hair Poshak Oil is a unique combination of Ayurvedic ingredients like amla, rosemary, til oil and neem. Designed to fight and reduce hair fall in three weeks, this oil comes with dual advantages. It prevents breakage and simultaneously fights dandruff, keeping your hair well-nourished.

Price: Rs. 249

Lever Ayush Keyur Poshak Shampoo

The word ‘Keyur’ is used in religious books to describe the lustrous, thick hair of various deities. ‘Keshya’ means that which gives bountiful, black and lustrous hair. The best ‘Keshya’ herbs have been selected to formulate Keyur Poshak Shampoo. It helps to get back the lost shine in your hair and simultaneously nourishes, strengthens and conditions your hair too. The ingredients that make up this shampoo include Amla, Bhringaraj, Yashtimadhu and Henna – all helping to keep your hair shiny, bouncy and strong.

Price: Rs. 310/-

Lever Ayush Dandruff Naashak Shampoo

Consisting of ingredients such as amla, neem, tulsi, rosemary, henna and shikakai, the shampoo cleanses and conditions your hair with its anti-microbial and cooling properties. With its triple benefits of being anti-dandruff, cleansing and strengthening, Lever Ayush Dandruff Nashak shampoo is all you need to fight this problem without going in for any expensive treatments.

Price: Rs. 325/-

PAIN RELIEF

Lever Ayush Pain Naashak Cream

Lever Ayush Pain Naashak cream has been created on the lines of Ayurveda which recognizes that pain can occur in different parts of the body. This can be broadly categorized as ‘Sandhishool’ (joint pain) and ‘Katigraha’ (backache). This cream contains carefully chosen ingredients such as ‘shulahar dravyas’ like lavang, pudinah and gandhapura, which effectively relieve pain, tenderness and swelling, in case of sprains, strains and even in cases of osteoarthritis. Lever Ayush Pain Naashak cream is an effective analgesic cream that will give a soothing relief from different physical pains.

Price: Rs. 119/-

Lever Ayush Narayana Tailam

The best medicine for ‘Vata’ disorders according to Ayurveda is regular ‘Abhyanga’ (external application) with oil. The Lever Ayush Narayana Tailam has 32 ingredients known for its pain relief solutions. The oil is made solely of Ayurvedic solutions using taila pak vidhi (method of processing medicated oils) that can cure muscle and joint aches even in the case of osteoarthritis.

Price: Rs. 599/-

Ayush Headache Naashak Roll-On

It includes wintergreen oil, lemongrass oil, eucalyptus oil, menthol, clove oil and camphor. A combination of these products works on relieving congestion which is often the reason for headaches. It also works towards easing out respiratory issues and colds. The product works effortlessly against headaches, whether they are caused due to congestion, sinusitis or stress on the eyes – within 15 minutes. A must have in your daily bag.

Price: Rs. 199/-

SKINCARE

Lever Ayush Suvarna Poshak Cream

The Lever Ayush Suvarna Poshak Cream is an excellent supplement for your skin. Ayurveda recommends ‘Varnya Dravyas’ (promoters of complexion) for enhancing natural complexion and providing glow. Brimming with natural ingredients, the cream is concocted with healthy skin in mind. With herbs like ‘Rasayani’ and ‘Tirit’, it restores the lustre in your skin, enhances your natural complexion, smoothens out wrinkles and makes your skin young and healthy from within. The cream also helps fight blemishes and dullness and keeps your skin soft and deeply nourished.

Price: Rs. 210/-

The products are divided into Doshas i.e. Vata/Pitta/Kapha and Gunas/Karmas i.e Poshak (Grow), Nashak (Destroy) and Rakshak (Protect). Each and every product has Dosha and Guna mentioned on it. For e.g. these three hair products here, the Bhringamalakadi Tailam is Rakshak i.e. it prevents hair from greying, Hair Poshak Oil is obviously Poshak i.e it helps in growth and reduces hair fall and breakage and Dandruff Naashak Shampoo is again as the name suggests Nashak i.e destroy dandruff.

I like how they come in a cloth bag packaging. I have used the Hair Poshak oil twice yet and really liked it, I will use it a few more times before reviewing it. It has a blend of amla, rosemary, til oil and neem which helps in reducing hair fall and dandruff and also strengthens the hair follicles. Amla and sesame oil also help in conditioning hair and reduce split ends. When I used the Hair Poshak Oil before shampooing, hair was much more softer and there was reduction in hair fall while washing them too.

I loved the Headache Nashak Roll-On, if you follow me on twitter or Snapchat (@bhumika_t), you know I am suffering from terrible cold from the past few days and every night I get this unbearable headache, I tried this roll-on and I felt so much better. This is definitely going to be a part of my hand bag now. If you suffer from congestion, cold or frequent headaches coz of that, this is a must buy for you!

I tried the Dandruff Nashak Shampoo too, I use it once a week and have used it twice till now and already see the difference. It has rosemary oil as one of the ingredients which is anti fungal and anti bacterial and one of the few essential oils which help combat dandruff.

The pricing is pretty reasonable for Ayurvedic products coz all the natural and organic products are priced a little higher these days as they can’t and do not generally use the cheaper ingredients and all the blend of herbs and oils turns out to be a little expensive. All the Lever Ayush products are available online on Amazon India

I only did not like the fact that the complete ingredient list is missing, except for the Headache Nashak Roll-On, other products do not have ingredients mentioned.

Overall, I would say I am glad Lever Ayush has come up with products with age-old ayurvedic formulations. I am really looking forward to try the Narayana Tailam for my back aches and Suvarna Poshak cream.

Have you heard of Lever Ayush products? Tried any?

Clean & Clear Foaming Face Wash Review

Clean & Clear, Cleanser, Face Wash, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Clean & Clear Foaming Face Wash Review

Hi guys,

If you remember I have reviewed the Clean & Clear Morning Energy Burst Face Wash before (Read HERE). Clean & Clear has been one of the oldest brands and one of the first to introduce face washes in India and that too in the affordable category. I believe every one of us has used and loved Clean & Clear face washes.

The Foaming Face Wash was one of their very first launches. I loved the Morning Energy range and was eager to try the new Foaming Face Wash.

What the Company claims: Clean & Clear’s improved oil-free Foaming Face Wash helps prevent pimples, oily shine and blackheads; thoroughly removing oil and dust without over-drying skin. The improved Foaming Face Wash promises to leave skin feeling clean, clear and radiant; and, best of all, controls oil for up to 8 hours!

About Clean & Clear Foaming Face Wash: Gentle enough to use every day, for clean and clear skin that glows.

Recommended for: Those who want to remove excess oil from their skin and prevent pimples.

How it works: CLEAN & CLEAR® FOAMING Face Wash is specially designed for young skin – to remove excess oil, while its special ingredients help prevent pimples. Its liquid formula cleans deep without causing dryness, and is gentle enough to use every day, for clean and clear skin that glows.

Directions: Apply a small amount on wet palm and work into rich lather. Gently massage onto face, avoiding the eye area. Rinse off thoroughly. Use twice daily for skin that’s beautiful, clean and clear! Follow with CLEAN & CLEAR® OIL FREE MOISTURISER for best results.

Ingredients: Water, Triethanolamine, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Lauryl Phosphate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Fragrance, Pentasodium Triphosphate, O-Cymen-5-ol (Isopropyl Methtylphenol), Benzophenone-4, Butylated Hydroxy Toluene

MRP: Rs.99/- for 100ml (Buy Here)

It comes in this clear bottle with blue cap, the standard Clean & Clear face wash packaging. It is runny and transparent with a slight golden hint.

It comes out clear and foams well. It deep cleans the skin and gets rid of all the dirt and clears the pores, you can feel it cleaning from deep within. It also controls the oil secretion for about 6-8 hours. I have combination skin and my T-zone gets oily in 3-4 hours usually but with this, it is well in control for a decent time.

Since it foams a lot, it does dry out the skin a bit and needs to be followed up with a rich moisturizer, especially in winters.

I really like the way it deep cleans, the fact that it can be carried along easily, comes in mini versions too which are perfect for hand bag for use in college, office, etc., is affordable and easily available everywhere. It is perfect for oily and combination skin, but I know friends with dry skin too, who quite like it.

Clean & Clear always comes up with interesting and helpful campaigns time and again, the latest being ‘Ready Face’. Ready Face helps teenage girls find their courage by introducing a ritual to empower girls to face the day head on. (Read more HERE)

Teenage years can be some of the most daunting, as they experience some of the most drastic developments to their emotional, physical and social well-being during these years. Part of these developments include the struggle to control the blemishes and oiliness surfacing on their constantly changing skin.

We have all been through that teen phase where even one pimple feels like our life is terrible and our confidence is at the lowest. We do not even feel like stepping out of the house and God forbid if we have a presentation or college fest or something like that, it’s like the ‘end of the world’ for us!

Research shows that a staggering 70% of girls age 15 to 17 avoid their daily activities when they feel bad about their looks and that 7 in 10 girls also believe that they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way.

So how does Clean & Clear empower teen girls to be their most courageous self? How do they help them combat their self-judgement?

The experts believe people who smile more frequently or do a power pose feel more confident about themselves.

Clean & Clear believes that beauty comes from being confident, comfortable and secure in your own skin. That is why the brand wants to introduce teenagers around the world to Ready Face, a concept that empowers you to channel your most courageous self– It can be a smile, a look, a gesture, or saying in front of the mirror that provides individuals with the confidence they need to take on everyday challenges. Ready Face motivates young girls to smile, be confident and take on the world. By getting noticeably clearer, more beautiful skin, teens are empowered to take back the mirror, flash their Ready Face, and become their most beautiful self.

So what do you think about the Clean & Clear Foaming Face Wash? And Ready Face?

December 2015 ‘The Party All Night’ Fab Bag Review

Bioderma, Fab Bag, Lip Crayons, Makeup, Reviews, Spa Ceylon, Sugar Cosmetics, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

December 2015 ‘The Party All Night’ Fab Bag Review

Hi guys,

So I just now received the December Fab Bag and let me tell you it one of their best bags! One of my personal favourites.

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

MRP: Rs.699/- per month

It’s ‘The Party All Night’ edition for the party season this month. They had an option to choose one bag of our choice of all the previous bags of 2015 and one product of our choice.

I went with this black heart bag which was their February Valentine’s Special since I did not have this one. And the product I chose is the Spa Ceylon Jasmine Face Masque as I had received the Foot Scrub from Spa Ceylon in October and I wanted to try out this masque.

Products in the bag:

  • Spa Ceylon White Jasmine Facial Masque -50g (Full size: Rs.2150/- for 100g)
  • Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon- Full size (Rs.799/-)
  • Bioderma Sensibio H2O 10ml sample (Rs.599/- for 100ml)
  • Kronokare The Frizz Kiss Cooling Explosion Lip Balm-Full size (Rs.95/-)
  • Aayush Headache Naashak Roll on 2ml bottle (Full size Rs.195/- for 10ml)

They have included Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon which I have reviewed HERE. The full sized one! That itself is priced at Rs.799/- plus it’s own sharperner. I already had the wine shade i.e. Poison Ivy and I was hoping and praying that I do not receive that, they are sending any one of the four shades at random. I really wanted to check out the Holly Golightly i.e. the nude shade as I do not own a nude lip crayon yet.

Another interesting product is the Kronokare Cooling Explosion Lip Balm which is in tube form and has a slanted applicator to directly use on lips and is in the form of clear jelly, but has a strong peppermint smell and as soon as you apply it, you actually feel the cooling explosion on the lips for about 10 minutes. It also claims to be used as a lip primer before using lipsticks, will test that out. But for now, I am really liking it coz my lips are so chapped that they hurt.

I loved the ingredients of the Spa Ceylon White Jasmine Facial Masque and immediately used it. I have this mask and the Kronokare lip balm ON right now while I review the bag 😀 I will do a complete, separate review of the masque after using it a few times.

A Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water 10ml sample. (Read complete review HERE) This is good to carry for travel but once opened, entire pack needs to be used as you cannot store and 10ml is good for 2-3 uses. But it’s a really nice makeup remover, so good to try out if you haven’t yet, be careful around the eye area though.

I have the Aayush Headache Naashak 10ml full size roll on and it is really good for headaches during cold, congestion and feels quite relieving, this small 2ml roll on is perfect to carry along.

Some also received a Clovia scarf, I am not sure if this bonus product is added randomly or how.

Overall, I have either used all the products in the bag and loved them or really wanted to try them. It’s a full value for money bag this time!! Definitely recommend getting the December bag, your Sugar Cosmetics Lip Crayon will only cover the cost of the bag for you. And for me the Spa Ceylon Jasmine Masque is also about Rs.1075/- additionally. Total value of the products comes to around Rs.2070/- plus the bag for the price of Rs.699/- 🙂

Totally worth it.

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

Maybelline Baby Lips Candy Wow Peach Review, Swatches

Lip Balm, Maybelline, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Maybelline Baby Lips Candy Wow Peach Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So today I am reviewing this latest launch by Maybelline India, the Baby Lips Candy Wow in Peach.

What the Company claims: Baby Lips has launched a new range of lip balms called the Baby Lips Candy Wow range to make your winter exciting and fun. Baby Lips has moved beyond the basic lip balm stick and now comes in the form of a crayon pen! Enriched with Vitamin E, this chubby stick will help you wow your lips in 5 candy shades – Raspberry, Mixed Berry, Orange, Cherry and Peach. Now take intense care of your lips this Winter and pop them with a dash of color with the fun and sweetness of a candy.

Here are the reasons why you’ll love the new Baby Lips Candy Wow:
– Available in 5 new shades
– Delicious, candy flavors
– 1st lip balm in a pen
– Enriched with Vitamin E to make your lips look better
– Gives supple and better-looking lips
– Visible results instantly
– Only for Rs. 275/-

Flavors Available:

  • Peach
  • Orange
  • Raspberry
  • Cherry
  • Mixed Berry

MRP: Rs.275/- for 2g (Available on Amazon)

Ingredients:

It comes in this pen kind crayon twist up form. Packaging is quite cute, but also a little broader and longer if you want to carry it in your wallet or denims. I usually carry my normal Baby lips in my denim pockets, this is a bit longer to carry around easily.

This is the complete quantity and it is just 2g which will not last really long if you reapply lip balms 2-3 times a day.

Peach is a very light pale peach that will only work for fair skin tones, doesn’t work well on me. Also Peach is not that pigmented.

Orange is a light fanta orange shade

Cherry is reddish shade

Raspberry is a beautiful pink

Mixed Berry is a light purply pink

These are quite pigmented, a little more than few of the original Baby lips. Moisturising and hydrating enough, stay for 3-4 hours. It has a faint candy smell, but doesn’t last long, just for a minute or so.

Here is the swatch of the Peach shade..

And on me..

Difference between Baby Lips and Baby Lips Candy Wow:

  • Price: Baby Lips are Rs.150-175 and this is pricey at Rs.275
  • Qty: Baby lips is 4g and this is just 2g
  • Pigmentation: Baby Lips Candy Wow some shades are more pigmented than Baby Lips
  • Size: Baby lips are more travel friendly and handy
  • Packaging: Baby Lips Candy Wow look cuter with the bright crayon packaging

Overall I would say, if you need something cute and more pigmented than normal lip balms, Baby Lips Candy Wow is a perfect option. If you want something handy and value for money with good qty and affordable pricing, then stick to Baby Lips.

I have seen the swatches online and I love Raspberry and Cherry. Peach is the least pigmented. I definitely recommend checking out or buying Raspberry and Cherry, I am getting those next!

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Have you tried the new Maybelline Baby Lips Candy Wow yet?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review