Tag Archives: Beauty Blogs India

Lakme Hair Serenity Service (Straight Hair with Cysteine) Review, Photos

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Lakme Hair Serenity Service (Straight Hair with Cysteine) Review, Photos

Ok..when I got the opportunity to try the Hair Serenity Service (Straight Hair with Cysteine) at Lakme Salons, I was a little wary since its semi permanent..and I have never colored, treated or done anything to my hair..in fact blow drying and straightening is also very rare..as I find that a little torturous for the hair..so I had to do my small little research..

I had shared about Hair Serenity before here and the difference between this and Keratin treatments..

I found out more and sharing with you guys here..

Why is Formaldehyde Dangerous?

Understanding the Reasoning
The danger comes when formaldehyde comes in contact with our bodies. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, but it’s so much more than that. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to skin, eye, nasal and throat irritation, respiratory illnesses and severe allergic reactions, even from small, unspecified amounts found in products like a keratin treatment. This can lead to headaches, fertility problems in women, lesions on the body, abdominal aches, vomiting and even death. Obviously, a chemical that in small to moderate quantities can lead to a variety of health issues is bound to create some controversy. That’s why there are regulations on formaldehyde in everything from building materials to your everyday hair products.

Why You Should Go Formaldehyde-Free

Be simply inhaling formaldehyde fumes, both you and your stylist are exposed to higher risks of lung cancer.
While formaldehyde treatments had ecstatic customers singing its praises, plenty of women experienced dramatic hair loss from the treatment.
Formaldehyde is a dangerous, carcinogenic substance and should not be used lightly.

About Cysteine: Luckily, a new generation of hair straightening treatments have come along that are safer and more cost effective than previous keratin treatments. One treatment, known as cysteine Brazilian therapy came out fairly recently in the middle of 2011.

As the name implies, this straightening treatment is also from Brazil, but it is not a keratin straightening treatment. Instead, the treatment uses a naturally occurring, essential amino acid called cysteine to straighten the hair, making it a safer treatment than formaldehyde based straighteners. Cysteine is also more naturally absorbent, eliminating the need for a formaldehyde coating to seal the product in. As a result, this hair straightening treatment doesn’t contain any complicated chemical formulas that keratin treatments require.

How It Works: Cysteine & Its Effects
As far as treatment goes, cysteine Brazilian therapy is considered semi-permanent at best. However, several professionals state that treatments containing cysteine instead of keratin can, in fact, last between two and three months minimum.

Overall, cysteine provides a safer options for those looking for straighter tresses. Everyone, from type 3s and 4s to pregnant women, can use this formaldehyde-free hair straightening treatment.

So after being convinced that it won’t affect my hair (I am a little finicky about my hair), I tried to give it a shot..so I went to Lakme Salon in Mulund..

The first step being consultation with the expert..I bombarded him with questions..the usual me still having some doubts :p My biggest concern was whether the new hair that grows would be normal..and would the huge difference show up..I don’t like that half curly half straight look..and he said this does not go inside the roots of hair..and is just used over the hair..and the effect fades away slowly and the whole hair is normal as before again in around 3 months..so I was relieved..this is not straightening..its just smoothening hair and relaxing the frizz..the overall effect is very natural..since my hair is naturally straight with some waviness at the ends..it was not a dramatic difference for me..or such that someone would point out that I have got my hair straightened..

Step 1: Hair is washed thrice with a clarifying shampoo..

Step 2: Hair is blow dried and the Cysteine Complex is applied on each strand on 80% dry hair.

Step 3: The hair is wrapped with thin cling and kept for 35-40 minutes.

Step 4: Each strand is then blow dried..and then ironed with a flat iron..there are some fumes..but not much..

Step 5: Hair is supposed to be relaxed for 20 minutes. And then they are again washed..and a conditioner and serum are applied.

Step 6: Hair is then blow dried again without the heat..just to style and the acai oil is applied.

And tadaa..its done !!

Here is a short video to show the procedure:

The whole process takes around 3-4 hours depending on the length and thickness of hair as each strand is to be worked on individually.

They use the Amazon Series Range for the whole procedure..It was called Cysteine Infusion before..and they have named it Hair Serenity now..

The cost: Rs. 6499/- for below shoulder hair
Rs. 7499/- for above shoulder hair
Both excluding 12.36% service tax..

Ya its expensive..but the effect stays for 2 months..and it all safe and natural plus does not damage the hair during or after in any which ways..

Post treatment care: I have been told to use Sulfate Free Shampoos..so here goes my SLS shampoos for the time being..I am going to use Vedantika and Neev..thinking of getting the Lass Naturals Range..

I did surely recommend the hair serenity service for people who want natural looking, frizz free, straighter manageable hair without the side effects or after effects of formaldehyde..

Source: 1

P.S: Services were offered by the brand but it has not affected my opinion. My hair are more precious to me than anything :p

This Monsoon get healthy and smooth skin with the Vichy NORMADERM

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This Monsoon get healthy and smooth skin with the Vichy NORMADERM
With the monsoons, the skincare woes multiply tremendously as there is an increase in humidity, grime and pollution. To fight against all the associated skincare problems, one requires special care for their skin with a specialized regime.Vichy Laboratories gives you the NORMADERM range to combat these problems and provide all round skin care. With a special emphasis to battle oily skin, the Vichy Normaderm range is essential for acne prone skin.

The Vichy NORMADERM range gives you highly effective skin care products encompassing the all round skin care regime of – Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing. Begin your day with the Vichy NORMADERM Deep Cleansing Gel which helps remove dead cells and unclogs pores; purifying the skin from deep within. Follow up your facial cleansing with the Vichy NORMADERM Purifying Astringent Toner which further eliminates any impurities and visibly tightens pores for a smooth skin texture.

Acne skin also requires hydration. Normaderm Tri Activ Anti imperfection hydration care. Combines 3 active ingredients to penetrate 100% of the epidermis and achieves the results by controlling excess sebum. The satiny gel texture ensures matte effect with hydration.  Hydration cream should be applied in the morning for perfectly cleansed skin using light circular massaging strokes.  The Gel cream should be applied by smoothening and to optimize the efficacy, a draining massage can be done.

One can use Normaderm Night Anti Imperfection Rejuvenating Care enriched with Vitamin C. Since Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it helps in smoothen fine line and pores, restores a purer, smoother, luminous and more plump skin.  Normaderm 3in1 Cleanser can be used as a mask 2-3 times a week to deeply purify and mattify skin. Apply a thin layer to the face and let it dry for 5 minutes. Rinse off with water. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately.

The Vichy NORMADERM Range includes:

NORMADERM DEEP CLEANSING GEL    100 ml   Rs. 390/-

NORMADERM DEEP CLEANSING GEL    200 ml    Rs. 990/-

NORMADERM TRI-ACTIV ANTI-IMPERFECTION HYDRATING CARE    50 ml    Rs. 1,250/-

NORMADERM NIGHT  WITH VITAMIN C    30 ml    Rs. 590/-

NORMADERM TRI-ACTIV ANTI-IMPERFECTION HYDRATING CARE    30 ml    Rs. 590/-

NORMADERM TRI ACTIV CLEANSER MASK     125 ml   Rs. 950/-

NORMADERM FOAMING CREAM    125 ml    Rs. 590/-

NORMADERM TONIC ASTRIGENT    200 ml    Rs. 990/-

NORMADERM TOTAL MAT    30 ml    Rs. 790/-

NORMADERM TRI ACTIV CLEANSER     50 ml    Rs. 390/-

AVAILABILITY:

·         At select pharmacies in all major cities.

·         Orders can also be placed online (No delivery charges).

·         To place orders or to locate the nearest Vichy store log on to: www.vichyindia.com

P.S: PR Info

Jennifer Aniston’s Beauty Secrets

Skin care, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Jennifer Aniston’s Beauty Secrets
Jennifer Aniston revealed some of her top skincare secrets in a recent interview, and we’re surprised to hear how beautifully basic they are!

Though eternally sporting a youthful golden glow, Jen confessed that her most effective wrinkle-fighting regime consists of little more than ice water and Vaseline.

Rather than splashing out on fancy creams, Jen apparently prefers to dab some of the classic jelly below her eyes before bed instead.

Then to keep her skin firm and pores under control, the Friends actress is said to dunk her face into a sink full of cold water and ice cubes. Eeish!

While we get the idea – the cold water reduces puffiness, tightens up skin and shrinks pores – an icy dip first thing in the morning sounds a bit intense.

Source: 1

Do you use Petroleum Jelly or ice cold water ?

Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner Review, Swatches

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Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner Nocturnal Review, Swatches
What the Company claims: Waterproof Formula. Provides smooth and even application.
MRP: Rs. 259/- for 0.28g (Rs. 179/- in current catalog)
Shades available:
  • Emerald Green
  • Blackest Black
  • Cosmic Brown
  • Majestic Plum
  • Starry Night Blue

Nocturnal and Textured Teal are the two new shades introduced in the new Urban Jungle Collection.

Avon Glimmersticks are matte or metallic finish in a few shades whereas the Glimmersticks Diamonds have a little shimmer.

The whole product

Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner are mechanical retractable eye pencils..they have a simple black packaging..and a matching shade end..

They are super creamy and glide on very easily..and have great pigmentation..you need just one swipe and once set, they do not budge at all…not smudging or fading..I loved the staying power..

Nocturnal is a deep purple shade with a metallic sheen..

Pros:

1. Very pigmented..you need just a swipe.
2. Smudge proof and water proof.
3. Stays for a good 6-7 hours.
4. Mechanical and retractable..so no wastage.
5. Matching shade at the end to identify.
6. Quite creamy..glide on easily.
7. Economical..especially at the 179 offer.

Cons:

1. Since these are creamy, they even break off..I guess one has to be more careful in summers.
2. Only available through an Avon rep.

Overall I quite liked the Glimmersticks..I always wanted to try them..and quite loving the shade Nocturnal..surely trying more shades..totally recommended..

Rating:

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

Overall Rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

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

Kitchen Remedies for Clear Flawless Skin

Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Kitchen Remedies for Clear Flawless Skin
Don’t have the extra cash or time to spend on skin care? Fret not! Your kitchen is loaded with natural secrets for flawless skin.
Source

Dry skin

“To nourish dry skin, you can simply use the olive oil you have in your kitchen, the same one used to prepare vinaigrette. Olive oil is really good, it will reinforce and nourish the skin and it helps regenerate and protect too. This is an oil you can use from head to toe. You just have to apply it on your body. In Morocco, women use Argan oil because it protects the skin from all weather conditions. It’s a country where it is very hot during the day but quite cold at night. This oil is going to soften your skin, in the same way that olive oil will.”

Oily skin

“Sometimes, you buy more food than you need but don’t throw things out straight away, you can use some food to create beauty products. If you have an avocado which is a little bit too ripe, transform it into a mask. To nourish your skin, just crush the avocado and put it on your face. During summer, when the sun is really hot, mix an avocado with egg yolk for a face mask because it gives more protection.

“If you have blackheads on your nose, use the skin of a banana. Rub it on your nose and it will make the blackheads pop out more easily. You just have to pick them afterwards, which will stop you getting a red nose and a scar!

“Rice flour is another great natural beauty secret when you have oily skin. Everyone knows about rice papers, but they are quite expansive. If you have rice flour in your kitchen, you can make a mask with it. Mix the flour with yoghurt – one which isn’t too fatty – just to add a moisturising element. You can mix rice flour with a mashed up strawberry too, which helps exfoliate skin. And of course, you can add some clay to the mask, which is the perfect product for oily skin.”

The little tip for every skin type

“Everyone says that Chinese girls have beautiful skin, which is true. They’ve got a secret which many stars practice too. They use an egg white as a facial – they spread it on my face. Then let it dry until it looks like clear plastic and take it off with tepid water. It tightens the pores and gives a rejuvenating effect.”

Source: 1

Which tips do you swear by, for a clear flawless skin ??

Get ready to glow this monsoon- Skin and Hair Tips

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Get ready to glow this monsoon- Skin and Hair Tips

Expert tips by Dr. Sangeeta Amladi, Head Medical Services, Kaya Skin Clinic

The onset of monsoon is a welcome relief after the sweltering summer heat. The thick grey clouds and the cool breeze makes you hum. But don’t be surprised if your skin doesn’t share your fervor.

The rainy season brings with it an increase in humidity, grime and pollution, which has the potential to play havoc with our skin. To fight all the skin woes, one is required to follow a simple but effective skin care regime. Keep your skin fresh and glowing by following the expert tips by to Dr. Sangeeta Amladi, Head Medical Services, Kaya Skin Clinic.

Source

Skin Care

· Good and effective cleansing using a soap free cleanser is recommended. You could also use a gentle scrub (with uniform mild beads) once a day

· Cleansing should be followed by toning using an alcohol free toner, since increased humidity could open up your pores

· Use a sunscreen even on cloudy days

· Use a light lotion-based moisturizer or serum which will gently rehydrate your skin and also brighten it up

· Avoid heavy makeup and use waterproof make up when necessary

· Remember to nourish your skin from the inside too – eat salads blanched in boiling water to disinfect them, vegetable soup which will keep you warm and healthy and drink the usual 8-10 glasses of water. Your skin is always thirstier than you are!

Foot Care

· Effective cleansing of feet is very important as they would be exposed to lot of grime and muck

· Do not forget to completely dry your feet so as to prevent fungal infections

· Avoid wearing boots as these would hold water for a longer duration, creating a soggy environment for your feet

· A home pedicure should be done once a week. This would consist of soaking feet in warm water to which you can add 3-4 drops of Savlon, for 15-20 minutes, followed by cleansing your nails and scrubbing your feet with a foot scraper. Complete the pedicure by applying a light moisturizer

· When you go for pedicure, ensure that the instruments used are sterilized/ cleansed with disinfectants, or if possible use your personal instruments. Also instruct your aesthetician to avoid pushing the cuticles as toe nail fungal infections are very common in monsoons

Hair Care

· Good and effective cleansing using a volumising shampoo twice or thrice a week is highly recommended as hair tends to go limp in this season

· Conditioning your hair becomes twice as important during this season. Don’t shun it if you have sticky hair, instead opt for a light conditioner that is suited for limp, oily hair

· Keep the scalp dry to avoid scalp conditions like fungal and bacterial infections, which are more prevalent during the monsoon

· If you need to blow dry your hair, apply a leave-on conditioner prior to it

· Go easy on styling during this season. Excessive use of hair gels and sprays will only cause further damage

· Take time off from your busy schedule and book yourself a hair spa therapy appointment

· Oiling once a week would help but make sure you wash your hair well as residue oil can attract dust and grime, which along with sweat, can cause dandruff and even scalp infections

· Keep your hair trimmed and short during the season

· Food for hair – milk and milk products, nuts, soya products


While following these tips, one should also adhere to the below mentioned daily skincare regime to keep sparkling this season:

Monsoon skincare regime

PRODUCTS SUITABLE DURING MONSOON…

RECOMMENDED BY KAYA SKIN CLINIC:

· Kaya Revitalizing Tonic

· Kaya Foot Care Cream

· Kaya Soothing Cleansing Gel

· Kaya Daily Use Sunscreen with SPF 15

· Nourishing Shampoo

· Insta Brightening Micro Mask

· Purifying range for acne prone skin (cleanser, toner and moisturizer)

It is possible to enjoy healthy, glowing skin without a high-maintenance routine. Here are some rules that we should try and adhere to.

· Cleansing
Washing the impurities away from your skin allows it to breathe. To protect the skin’s natural oils, avoid anti-fungal and perfumed soaps. Instead use a non-soapy cleanser that ensures deep pore cleansing

· Toning
This helps to tighten the pores and prevent pimples. A non-alcoholic toner incorporated into your basic cleansing regime every morning and before going to bed will prevent skin infections and eruptions 

· Moisturizing
People who spend a lot of their time in an air-conditioned environment need to keep their skin moisturized. However, those with oily skin should do so only twice every day. Their skin’s natural oils will keep it hydrated

· Don’t rub your face while drying it

The facial skin is very delicate so rubbing it with a towel can cause hyper-pigmentation. Gently pat it dry, avoid any kind of friction

· Don’t step out without sunscreen protection

As long as there is daylight, our skin needs protection from UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you step out and re-apply every three to four hours

· Regular Maintenance
For glowing blemish free skin, adhere to your skin treatments like facials, cleanups, skin polishing, peels, etc, as suggested by your dermatologist. In fact the monsoon season is area very good time to do peels and lasers, as post care is much less due to the absence of direct sun rays

To complement your daily skin care regime, you can also try the below mentioned services by Kaya Skin Clinic:

· Recently launched Fruit Sorbet is a unique service by Kaya Skin Clinic, which uses a combination of cutting-edge technology and exotic natural ingredients to luxuriously pamper and nourish your skin, giving it brilliant radiance instantly!

· Kaya Aqua Radiance, a service that uses the revolutionary JET aviation technology. Exclusive to Kaya in India, the service infuses vitamins deep into the skin. Drawing on the healing properties of oxygen and water to replenish skin cells, this service uses cool and soothing supersonic jet sprays to gently slough off layers of dead cells,instantly enabling your pores to breathe while restoring lost lustre.This service complemented with a proper skincare regime would be the ideal recipe to keep your skin radiant and glowing, in this weather.

· Aqua Fairness is an enhancement service perfect for those who are looking to overcome effects of sun tanning post summers. This service provides excellent hydration and helps in preventing the effects of the sweltering heat and scorching sun.The unique JET technology uses the goodness of water and air to provide lymphatic drainage which rids the face of toxins. This process is then followed by deep exfoliation. The glycolic peels used for “infusion” in the service are derived from sugarcane and penetrate the skin quickly and easily, allowing new skin to surface quicker.
So although the sky may carry a gloomy cast, you can brush off your skin woes and guarantee healthy, beautiful and glowing skin with these handy tips and Kaya Skin Clinic!

P.S: PR Info

Merck India Event- All About Pigments

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Merck India Event- All About Pigments

I attended the Merck Event last week at Amadeus, NCPA, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Merck is a company basically from Germany and has its collaboration in India from the time Rabindranath Tagore went there and had good relations with the Merck family..Performance Materials is one division of Merck out of the many divisions..and pigments form one part of Performance Materials..and not only the colored pigments we use for our eyes..but everything from mattifying powders in pressed powders to the shimmery highlighting powders..the pretty looking body washes and face washes..each and every thing has these pigments..even the paints on the walls and the outer packaging..everything..

Read more in this note:

Event: “An afternoon of shimmer and shine”, where Merck [India] revealed the latest trends in beauty and skincare with renowned experts Samantha Kochhar, Ojas Rajani and Dr. Soma Sarkar

When: Friday, 8th June 2012

Where: Amadeus, NCPA, Nariman Point, Mumbai

What happened: Even a humid day in the over-cast weather of Mumbai could not break the excitement resonated around the conclave hosted by The Performance Materials division of Merck [India] to discuss and showcase the latest trends, movements, technology and innovations in the world of beauty and design. Merck is the pioneer and global leader in pearl effect pigments and a key player in setting global trends in beauty, skincare and design. Combining expertise with experience, this exclusive preview also featured the likes of Samantha Kochhar – MD Blossom Kochhar Companies, Ojas Rajani – Ace Bollywood make-up stylist and Dr. Soma Sarkar – renowned cosmetologist and dermatologist, who threw light on the latest advances and inventions in beauty and the importance of effect pigments in the colour cosmetics and skin-care products that we use.

Merck [India] also shared its latest initiative ‘Project effexX’, a first of its kind co-creation platform in the world of product design, architectural design, interior design, aesthetic design, package design, cosmetics and skin care. Through Project effexX, Merck India intends to communicate the value, benefits, and the need for special effect pigments in people’s lives and businesses, along with serving as a knowledge resource for trends, technology, new design and innovation. It’s the perfect destination for aspiring beauty and design professionals to engage with industry experts and seed new concepts and ideas.

It was an afternoon full of shimmer and shine, with Ojas Rajani showcasing the latest looks for Colour Forecast of Autumn/Winter, 2012. This was also followed by an interactive experiential session, where participants got to custom make their own skincare and colour cosmetic formulations using a variety of Merck pigments and actives.

What the Speakers had to say:

· Sharing his views on this initiative Siddhartha Sengupta, Head of Performance Materials, Merck Limited [India] said, “At Merck it is our constant endeavour to educate consumers about the relevance of effect pigments in their day-to-day lives. It is with this objective that we created ‘Project effexX’, an online and offline engagement programme to enlighten, inspire and empower consumers through influencers. This initiative will also help consumers understand the latest trends in the effect pigments space and give them a platform to network within their lines of work.”

· Talking on the occasion, Samantha Kochhar, Managing Director, Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies said, “I’m very pleased to support Project effexX, which I think is a great knowledge sharing platform for budding professionals and other industry players who want to raise the bar in the Hair and Beauty Industry. Companies can benefit from in-depth researched solutions with regards to pigments and ingredients in order to enable them to produce internal quality products and packaging, which do not harm people and the environment. We believe that as a company we are absolutely dedicated to providing natural, honest, credible and effective products. I personally have great faith in Merck products on account of their high quality and focus on safety, and have used their pigments in our latest skincare range, ‘Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic’.”

· Dr. Soma Sarkar was vocal in advocating the need for better skin care, “In today’s fast paced life, it’s important that both, women and men, pay greater attention to their skin care needs. This begins with using quality products which are appropriate for their skin type. I have high regard for a brand like Merck, which has managed to constantly stay on top of the skin care and beauty trends. Merck products not only deliver value for money but also organic world-class formulations that do not damage the skin. Each ingredient is backed by global certifications which are testimonial to their claims of efficacy. I am delighted to be part of Project effexX, which is a great platform for influencers and consumers alike to keep abreast of the latest developments in beauty and skin care, and also network with experts across principles.”

· Praising Merck [India]’s efforts in creating this dynamic knowledge sharing platform for young practitioners through Project effexX, Ojas Rajani said, “Merck has some really innovative pigments, actives and functional fillers, which provide superior quality textures and benefits to many of the colour cosmetic and skincare brands that we use. Project effexX is a great platform to educate consumers on the ingredients that they should seek in their beauty products and help them to take more calculated and informed purchase decisions.”

Ojas Rajani explained two looks on the models..a day time and a night time..the day time look was more sublte where pistachio and pastel shades were used and the night time look was smokey.

Samantha Kocchar was herself a makeup artist before..if you are a follower of Band Bajaa Bride on NDTV Good Times, you must have seen both Samantha and Ojas on the first season..She tookover as the MD of Aroma Magic a year and a half back after her dad expired and she heads it now. She also told us about the new launches of Aroma Magic..a new line of face washes..which have Merck Pigments..and new innovative packaging..and also that they have worked on the smell of Aroma Magic Mineral Glow Scrub which is their hot seller..but smells blah..

Ojas Rajani uses cosmetics which have Merck Pigments in them. I have got a lilac eye-shadow which has Merck pigments in it ..would review soon..

Merck also has Titanium Dioxide used in Suncreens and many other pigments related to skin care and pearl effect pigments used in makeup..the whole pigments thing was kind of an eye opener..I knew the ingredients used in stuff..but not about how these pigments are sourced from different companies and used in manufacturing and the process, etc..we were also shown a demo of different pigments mixed together..

Have you heard about the Merck Pigments before ?

Viviana Matte Lipsticks Review, Swatches

Lipsticks, Makeup, Reviews, Swatches, Viviana, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Viviana Matte Lipsticks Sinful Velvet, Provocatively Pretty Review, Swatches 
What the Company claims: A perfect Gliding Application for a professional fashion-show finish! A product characterised by an Ultra Thin Film and by an immediate writing performance.
Viviana™ Lipstick is characterized by an Extra-Shiny Brightness, a pastel delicacy and a Long Lasting comfort. The special formula, rich in purified waxes, ensures a perfect adherence and an Incredible Smoothness.

Plastic Powders: perfect glide in application.
Colour-bright pigments: full colour result.
Silicones and special polymers: lasting shimmering effect.
Jelly Texture: extraordinary comfort sensation.
Vitamina E: anti-ageing action.
Jojoba Oil: emollient action.
Slightly scented.Dermatologically tested.
Light esters: comfortable lasting film
Perfume free.
Lanoline free.
Complying with the CEE, FDA and Japan legislation.
Velvet ester: to give a velvet, evanescent touch.

Shade Card:

MRP: Rs. 329/- for 4.2g

Though they mention matte, these are super creamy and glossy..and are super pigmented..and the staying power is nice too.

Proactively Pretty

The shade card mentions provocatively pretty but on the lippie the shade name goes Proactively Pretty..now I am confused…but whatever the name..the shade sure is a pretty one..its a deep rosy brown..would suit all skin tones..more so dusky skin tones.

Sinful Velvet

Sinful Velvet is a warm mauvey pink..it would suit to medium to fair skin tones more..

T-B: Proactively Pretty, Sinful Velvet

Here is it on me..

Provocatively Pretty
Sinful Velvet

Pros:

1. Super pigmented..the swatches were difficult to remove from my hand.
2. Stays for a good 4-5 hours and leaves a tint behind.
3. These are very very creamy..in fact I feel they easily melt or break if not handled well.
4. There are 12 shades to choose from and both in matte and frost finish..there are browns, pinks, mauves, rosy browns..a shade for everyone.
5. Has jojoba oil and Vitamin E.
6. Perfume free..if one is bothered by smell.
7. Feels very light on the lips.

Cons:

1. Availability is an issue. They are available online at Urbantouch, Good Life and Snapittoday.
2. I don’t know what the jelly texture as claimed means..but these are super creamy..and so soft that it broke while swatching..these I guess need to be stored in the fridge..and are not very travel friendly too.
3. The packaging..very poor and unattractive..plus not even sturdy..the bottom of Sinful Velvet is unattached and it does not swivel or come out..I have to roll the white plastic base of the lipstick inside for the product to come out :/
4. I think it should be priced below Rs. 300/- at this packaging..ya if they make the packaging prettier and fancier, then its justified.

Overall I like the quality, texture ,shades, pigmentation, staying power..only if these were sturdier and had better packaging, these would be awesome..

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Would I buy it again: Yes I quite like the shades..I only wish they were sturdier.

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

Essie Nail Polish Fiji, Mint Candy Apple- Review, NOTD

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Essie Nail Polish in Fiji and Mint Candy Apple

Guest Post by Sophia

When you’re choosing an outfit, you think about choosing the right shoes, jewellery or handbag but even more so lately having the right nail polish colour is essential! Now I have a number of different nail polishes from a variety of brands, but there are still some which I have yet to add to my collection and up until recently it was Essie nail polish.

About the product: Go girly and get glam with Essie Nail Polish – Fiji. It’s a lightweight polish with high-powered shine that not only strengthens nails, but imparts long-lasting, intense color.

MRP: £7.99  for .5 fl oz

Key Ingredients: Nitrocellulose strengthens nails while providing flawless texture. Mica adds a gentle shine to finished nails.

How to use it: Apply one to two coats of polish to dry, clean nails. Follow with a top coat for longer wear.

L-R: Mint Candy Apple, Fiji

Full Ingredients: Ethyl Acetate, Butyl Acetate, Nitrocellulose, Propyl Acetate, Tosylamide/Formaldehyde Resin, Isopropyl Alcohol, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate, Tripheneyl Phosphate, Trimethyl Pentanyl Diisobutyrate, Ethyl Tosylamide, Stearalkonium Bentonite, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Diacetone Alcohol, Camphor, Polyvinyl Butyral, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Benzophene-1, Citric Acid, Dimethicone, Silica, Trimethylsiloxysilicate

May Contain: CI 47005:1 (D&C Yellow #10), CI 47000 (D&C Yellow #11), CI 77163 (Bismuth Oxychloride), Mica CAS 12001-26-2, CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake), Polyethylene Terephthalate, CI 15850:1 (Red 7 Lake), CI 15850 (Red 6 Lake), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 15880 (Red 34 Lake), CI 77491 (Red Iron), CI 77499 (Black Iron), CI 77510 (Ferric Ammonium Ferrocycyanide), CI 75170 (Guanine), CI 42090 (Blue 1 Lake), CI 60725 (Violet 2), CI 17200 (Red 33), CI 77000 (Aluminum Powder), CI 73360 (Red 30), CI 26100 (Red 17), CI 42053 (Green 3), CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Green), CI 77007 (Ultramarines), CI 77266 (Black 2), Dibenzoxazoyl, Naphtalene

Fiji, Mint Candy Apple

I picked up ‘Mint Candy Apple’(I’m just crazy about mint colours) and ‘Fiji’(for a more neutral tone).  ‘Mint Candy Apple’ is a fresh, mint green with a slight bluish hue. It is a little reminiscent of candy in some ways because of its pastel shade so the name is quite fitting. ‘Fiji’ is a very pale pink, verging on white which although looks simple it elongates the nails, making the hand slimmer and longer.

First of all I really like the packaging! I love the neat cube like bottles, with Essie embossed on 2 opposite sides of glass. It’s has a delicate ‘e’ groove on top of the lid too.

The nail lacquer is of a medium consistency, not too thick and not too runny which is ideal in my opinion! The application is really smooth and the brush is wide enough to cover the surface area of the nail in a few strokes. The colour is quite sheer after the first coat, but a second coat really finishes it off and by then it’s perfectly opaque. The polish is quite long lasting and I found it stayed put on my nails for at least a week before I noticed any signs of chipping.

Essie nail polish is slightly pricier than drugstore favourites such as Rimmel or Barry M, at around £7.99 but I certainly think they’re worth the money! There’s a gorgeous selection of colours to choose from, bold shades, pastels, glitters and more – it’s hard not to buy them all!

Love Sophia xo

Sophia writes for Beauty In My Mind – Cosmetics Reviews offering the latest cosmetics reviews and skin care reviews, fashion tips, food recipes and more!

Editor’s Note: I am loving both Sophia…such pretty shades..and Mint Candy Apple is so summery and fresh..

Have you ever tried Essie nail polishes? What’s your favourite shade?

Fun in the Sun- Enjoy the Summers

Skin care, Tips, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Fun in the Sun- Enjoy the Summers


Ya I know you might think..how can one have fun in this scorching heat..and the skin would burn, tan and we would be dehydrated, etc



Sunshine, heat and humidity can harm the skin. Sun’s rays are particularly strong, so the chances of developing wrinkles, age spots, freckles, etc increase. And higher heat and humidity means more rashes, breakouts, and clogged pores.

Well fret not..we have Kyra on board..who knows exactly how to have fun in summers !

So here she is to share her summer secrets so that you and I can live it up this summer..

Sunscreens, Light water based moisturiser, Exfoliation scrubs  and Hydration are a must during this season.

1) Hydration: Hydrating your skin is very crucial. Drink atleast 10-12 glasses of water and/or fresh juices. Eat leafy vegetables and fresh fruits.

2) Protection: Always carry an umbrella and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Use stylish scarves to cover your head and hair. Apply a sweat-proof sunscreen lotion with an appropriate SPF and which provides both UVA and UVB protection and PA++ or +++ and reapply as needed.. (a minimum of SPF 30 and SPF 50 for pools and beaches ). Sunscreen should be according to your skin type..i.e the one meant for oily skin or dry skin. Use a lip balm with an SPF.

3) Exfoliation : Exfoliating twice a week would help remove the impurities and dead skin cells collected but use a mild bearable exfoliator..after getting back home, apply cold yogurt on the face to remove tan. Here are some other useful tips helpful in getting rid of the tan. You can also use the Lakme Sun Expert After Sun Range..the after sun face wash, gel and mask would help soothe and cool the skin.

4) Light Make up: Skip the heavy liquid foundation for lighter mineral foundation with a minimum SPF of 15. Use a waterproof mascara and eye pencil..a bronzer where sun kisses the skin, for that amazing glow..and a dab of lip gloss.

5) Clothes: Wear loose fitting cotton clothes, lots of whites, floral summery dresses and bright colors, wear open toed sandals or flip flops.. nothing that would sweat your feet..and you can add bright colorful accessories for that added dash..

6) Night Regime: Cleanse the skin at night to remove all the makeup, dirt, grime and water proof sunscreen..and use a good hydrating, repairing night cream.

Some other tips shared at Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012:

  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Night cream
  • Healthy diet
  • Anti-oxidants, Vitamin C & Vitamin D supplements
  • Protection with scarves, umbrella and sunglasses.
  • Light neutral make up to let the skin breathe.

So, go on and enjoy this summer…play some volleyball with Kyra and relax at some exotic beach sipping on a cool drink 😉

P.S: This is my entry to the Lakme Diva Blogger Contest at Indiblogger by Lakme www.facebook.com/ilovelakme

All images from Google and Tumblr.