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Best of 2015 - Skin & Hair, Indian Makeup And Beauty Blog, Best skincare and haircare india in 2015

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.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Gineplex Anti-Ageing Skin Care Range Review

Anti Ageing, Cleanser, Creams, Day Cream, Eye Cream, Face Mask, Face Scrubs, Face Wash, Lotus Herbals, Moisturizers, New Launches, Night Creams, Reviews, Serums, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Gineplex Anti-Ageing Skin Care Range Review

Hi guys,

If you follow me on Snapchat (add me if you are not following yet! bhumika_t 😀 ) you might be knowing that I had taken up the Lotus Herbals #ReverseYourAge 1 month challenge. We had to click selfies every week for the difference to be visible on the skin. I have been using this entire range for around a month now and here is my review.

Let me tell you something about this range and what is common throughout the range. It comes in this pretty gold and purple packaging, the packaging is quite nice. Most of the stuff are easy to carry around, except the jars which are made of glass and kind of heavy. The serum bottle is also made of glass but it is very very thick and not something that will break easily.

The main ingredients in the entire Gineplex range are Ginger, Ginseng and Milk Peptide complex (Hence the name Gineplex) which are the key ingredients in anti-ageing + hydration+ firming. The entire kit costs around Rs.3000/-

Lotus Youth Rx Active Anti-Ageing Foaming Gel

Benefits : –

* Prevent signs of ageing.
* Reveals a glowing complexion instantly.
* Enhances skin renewal and restores elasticity.

How To Apply :-

* Apply with wet hands massage gently on to the Face & neck.
* Massage gently for 2 -3 minutes.
* Rinse well.

Active Ingrdients :- Jojoba seeds, ginseng, ginger, milk peptide complex.

Results :- Skin looks and feels fresh, soft and revitalized

Price: Rs.225/- for 100 gm

Ingredients:

It has a rotating cap packaging and is off white in color, has a texture mix of gel-creme and has small, brown jojoba seeds. It does not foam much but cleanses all the dirt, grime and basic makeup. It feels more like a scrub than face wash. I do not like foam based face washes, so this is just perfect for me. It does not dry the skin at all and the gentle exfoliation removes the dry skin flakes in winter. It is absolutely perfect for winter and I love this face wash/foaming gel. It is not meant for people who love heavy duty foaming though.

Lotus Herbals Youth RX PH Balancing Multi Active Toner

MRP: Rs.325/- for 100ml

Ingredients:

The toner comes in a plastic bottle with a spray nozzle and a cap. 2 pumps are perfect, I mostly use it directly taking it on my palms and not use a cotton pad, works both ways. I absolutely love this toner, it is alcohol free and non drying. Plus it has green tea and castor oil which in turn tighten your pores and hydrate your skin. This toner again is perfect for winters and for dry skin too. One of the best toners currently in India. This toner balances the pH level of your skin and brings it to the normal 5.5

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Youth Activating Serum + Crème

It contains the highest concentration of the revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’ which gives it 10 times the anti-ageing power of a day crème. It’s a 2-in-1 formula of Serum + Crème –

1. Serum penetrates the skin quickly and delivers 10X* more ‘GINEPLEX YOUTH COMPOUND’ to the dermal layer, boosting collagen production.

2. Crème nourishes, hydrates and restores skin moisture.

MRP: Rs.695/- for 30ml

Ingredients:

One of my most favourite product from this range. It comes in a very thick glass bottle with a cap and a pump dispensor. Again a mix of gel+cream consistency. It is very light and gets absorbed into the skin in a jiffy. I just need one pump and it hydrates and nourishes the skin. I can even skip a cream post using this, coz it hydrates wonderfully even in these winters. Skin feels soft and smooth instantly.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti-Ageing Transforming Creme SPF25PA+++

It is a ‘Green Science’ miracle. It comes with the breakthrough ‘Gineplex Youth Compund’ derived from potent natural ingredients and is clinically proven for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. It is enriched with SPF 25 PA+++ for protection against sun damage which results in ageing of skin.

Results: Visibly reduces appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, spots in 7 days* Makes skin look firmer, younger and glowing.

MRP: Rs.545/- for 50g

Ingredients:

Both the day and night creams come in a thick glass jar which is quite heavy. They have a separate cap between the lid and the product. It is light pink in color and light in texture. It does not make the skin greasy and hydrates the dry patches on the skin, without the heavy feeling. Both day and night creams have almost the same ingredients with some minor difference. Key being light liquid paraffin, glycerine, Vitamin E Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Apart from Gineplex) which are great for hydration and work on blemishes and scars.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme

With the latest advancements in ‘Green Science’ at its core, it is a night crème for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. Lotus Youth Rx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme visibly reduces fine lines and opens pores by nourishing the skin overnight.

Results: You wake up to an optimally hydrated and dewy, fresh skin.

MRP: Rs.525/- for 50g

Ingredients:

The day cream has a gold base and purple lid and the night cream is vice-versa. I like how the packaging is different and it helps to identify the creams. Night cream is white in color and slightly richer in texture, though does not make the skin feel heavy, it takes 1-2 minutes to get absorbed completely and skin looks as if nothing is applied on it.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti- Ageing Eye Contour Cream

MRP: Rs.425/- for 15ml

The eye cream comes in this sleek tube with a nozzle dispensor, be careful when dispensing coz way too much product comes out. You just need a tiny bit on your ring finger, blend both ring fingers and apply under the eye and massage very lightly for a few seconds. It is off white in colour and gel like in texture. It feels very cooling and tingling. Since I do not have wrinkles, I did not notice any much of a difference with this one. Not a love, but kinda ok.

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Active Anti-Ageing Exfoliator

Its unique ‘TRIPLE ACTION FORMULA’ gently exfoliates, protects and nourishes the skin from within. It gently removes dead skin cells to reveal a younger and healthier looking skin.

Active Ingredients: Vanilla Beans, Ginseng, Ginger, Milk Peptide Complex

Results: Instantly reveals younger and healthier looking skin

MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g

Ingredients:

It has a rotating cap packaging and is white gel like in texture with black vanilla beans extracts. The scrub is very mild and gentle, it is good for everyday or every alternate day too. It is not heavy duty scrubbing, so if you like those walnut particles scrubs, you will find this very mild. This will work for sensitive skin too. I would say it’s ok, scrubbing particles could have been a little more stronger.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti – Ageing firming Face Masque

It is enriched with unique Algae Extract & revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’. It detoxifies & resurfaces the skin at cellular level. It nourishes & hydrates your skin, revitalizes texture, reduces pore size and removes dead skin flakes. It does not cause dryness unlike other masques.

MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g

Ingredients:

The masque has a flip cap and is a gel+creme texture again. It is not like those thick, cream based masques. It will come out clear and transparent on the skin. I keep it on for 10-12 minutes and then wash it off. It gives a tight feeling when it dries. I haven’t seen any reduction in pore skin but yes it does not dry out skin at all unlike other masques as claimed. And also skin feels firm and plump.

I have been using this entire range for a month now and I can see visible difference in my skin. Find below my selfies taken every week, while using this range.

R-L: Foaming Gel, Serum, Day Creme, Night Creme, Eye Creme, Exfoliator, Face Masque

I received this kit when I shifted to a new place and my skin was in the most horrible state ever. I had way too many break outs, spots, dryness and redness on the skin. Within a week, as you can see in the 2nd selfie, I noticed the difference. In fact, I felt the difference in 2-3 days and skin already felt smooth, soft, hydrated and more even with less redness and the dryness was all gone.

L-R: Week 1 to 4

I again broke out last week coz of travelling, change in climate and water plus it was way too cold in Jaipur and I have not been drinking enough water in the winters, it directly shows on my skin. But what I like the most about this range is, the breakouts dry our immediately and the range starts working on the scars and they fade away quickly too.

The entire range smells fresh and amazing, I love the smell especially of serum and day/night creams. This is slightly on the expensive side but the quantity is amazing! I am using it twice everyday since a month and I have not even finished 10% of the toner and day/night creams. Serum is 30ml and using it twice, so might finish sooner and same with the foaming gel. Even exfoliator and face masque I use once a week, so would last long.

Though I cannot comment on wrinkles as I don’t have them, but skin definitely feels firm, plump, soft, smooth and hydrated. If you are nearing 30 and already feeling the dryness on the skin or are over 30, this range is definitely a must try! Gift this to your mom or MIL and they will definitely love it.

My most favourite products from this range are the foaming gel, toner and serum. I like the day and night cream too.

Rating: 4/5

I loved taking up this challenge and my skin is loving it too 🙂

Did you take up the #ReverseYourAge Challenge? Have you tried the Lotus Herbals YouthRx Range before?

P.S: PR Samples, Honest Review.

L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick Lincoln Rose Review, Swatches

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L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick Lincoln Rose Review, Swatches

By Ishleen

Hello there, gorgeous!

So the holiday spirit has finally seeped in, and seeped in with a BAM! With the ethereal beauty of winters and the New Year’s party knocking down the corner, it is always a great opportunity to get hold of a red lipstick, and make your pout shine in all its blooming glory! <3

So after a lot of contemplation so as to spend almost a thousand bucks for a drugstore lipstick or to add 500 bucks more and get our patent MAC, I finally succumbed to buying this gorgeously packaged lipstick from L’Oreal in Lincoln Rose! Was it worth succumbing to the temptation? Keep reading to know more!

Product Description

Name- L’Oreal Moist Mat Lipstick

Shade- Lincoln Rose

Price- INR 899

Quantity- 4.2 grams

Availability- Available across all L’Oreal counters as well as online

My experience:

Packaging– If ever there was a love at first sight moment for me, it was when I saw this gorgeous little baby at the L’Oreal counter! Those of you who know me, know what a sucker I am for classy as well as cute packaging—they just make me go weak in the knees! And if the packaging is chic as well as in a hue of rose gold with uber classy mirror-like finish—count me in baby! So now you know why people are raving about this lipstick range so much—it is love at first sight, truly! But yes, the packaging though nice on the exterior, is quite flimsy on the inside! I mean, the lipstick tube is like really feeble and prone to breakage upon the slightest pressure; so just be cautious!

Texture- L’Oreal has this thing of playing with names—and so has been done with L’Oreal Moist Mat Range! I mean, the name is pretty intriguing—how can a moist lipstick be matte, and how can a matte lipstick be moist? But breaking the obnoxious monotony of dehydrating mattes, L’Oreal Paris has come up with the most amazing matte textured lipsticks which though settle into a powdery matte finish, yet is not at all dry. It glides on super smooth and does not look flaky. It indeed is a moist matte lipstick—the most wonderful texture I have used till date! Nothing like Mac retro mattes, but definitely similar to the Mac Satin finish lipsticks!

Shade- This particular shade is the most coveted of the lot and is mostly out of stock across all stores. And why should it not be—our miss universe Aishwarya Rai Bacchan had worn it for the Cannes Film Festival and flaunted the most amazing pout ever! The lipstick shade—as gorgeous as the outer packaging—is a very vibrant medium red with invariably strong pink-berry undertones which promises to flatter each and every skin tone! Perhaps it is the most stunning pink based medium red which is bold, but not at all in your face bright! A must try shade from the lot!

Pigmentation- Apart from the texture, if there is one thing that left me totally love struck; it is the super opaque pigmentation of the lipstick! I mean even the darkest of pigmentation (on lips, obviously :P) can be camouflaged easily with just two swipes of this lipstick! And if you have naturally pink lips, i.e., without any sort of pigmentation—one light stroke is all that it would take to get the colour in full bloom on the lips!

Staying power- these are drying winter months and I prefer using a lip balm underneath even the most creamiest of the lipsticks! And though, Moist Mat is matte, I can easily do even without a lip balm! Yes, it is that smooth to use! Atop a lip balm it stays for about 4+ hours and does not leave horrendously stained lips behind. But if applied sans any lip balm, the wear time can be prolonged to a good 6-7 hours, though it will stain the lips (which are not at all gross to look at; in fact, gives a nice raspberry tint upon fading)!

Pros:

-gorgeous packaging

-colour coded tabs on the lipstick tube

-very comfortable matte lipstick]

-not at all drying

-can be worn even without a lip balm

-super-opaque

-covers pigmented lips well

-lasts on the lips for a good 4-6 hours

Cons:

-price (900 bucks for a drugstore lipstick! Like, seriously?) *SIGH*

-flimsy lipstick tube which is prone to breakage

-may melt in the summer months

Final verdict: If you are on the look out of a nice pink based red, with very strong pink undertones—which is matte, comfortable to apply and wears well—go grab this beauty!

Rating: 4.7/5

Editor’s Note: Totally agree Ishleen, absolutely love the shade!

Lotus Herbals EcoStay Long Lasting Lip Colour Review, Swatches

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Lotus Herbals EcoStay Long Lasting Lip Colour Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing four shades out of the 10 new shades launches in the Lotus Herbals Ecostay Long Lasting Lip Colour Range.

What the Company claims: Lip colour is a preservative free, natural, long lasting and hydrating lip colour. One swip and your lips are ready for a healthier shine all day long without any loss of moisture, ensuring a flawless finish. SPF 20 gives UV Protection

How to use : Outline your lips with the lipliner.Hold the tube of lipstick to your lips and carefully apply it within the lines you drew with your lipliner. Start from the center of your lips and brush the lipstick outward, filling in all the gaps. ﾕFor a more precise application, use a lipstick brush. ﾕIf you go outside the lines of your lipliner, wipe the excess lipstick away with a tissue. ﾕLook in the mirror to make sure that you’re filling in the lines correctly. Applying lipstick without a mirror can lead to silly consequences.

MRP: Rs.545/- for 4.2g

These lipsticks come in a beautiful and sleek metallic pink packaging, which looks rose gold in sunlight. I absolutely love the packaging, also the lipstick click shut and are travel friendly.

They have this round bullet as in long, slender packaging lipsticks and the Lotus Herbals logo on top of the lipstick.

I am reviewing the shades Orange Lush, Rose Rush, Flirty Pink and Pink Pop.

They are a little dry in formulation and not the creamy kinds, also you need to go over the lips 2-3 times for a proper, opaque coverage. But once set, they do not budge for hours. They have a matte finish and stay for about 6-7 hours, they are not completely transfer proof but do not transfer much. They do fade a bit from the center post a complete meal though.

L-R: Orange Lush, Rose Rush, Flirty Pink and Pink Pop

They do not feel heavy on the lips and also lips do not feel dry or uncomfortable. Lighter colors are less pigmented and also go a bit patchy and accentuates dry lips. When I swatched all 5-6 lipsticks together, lips were a little dry and the lighter colors accentuated that. As you can see in the lip swatches below, Orange Lush and Flirty Pink are lighter and look a little patchy and accentuates the dryness on lips.

L-R: Orange Lush, Rose Rush
L-R: Flirty Pink and Pink Pop

Orange Lush is a true warm orange shade.

Rose Rush is a pink based red.

Flirty Pink is a peachy pink shade.

Pink Pop is a rosy pink, my most favourite shade of the lot.

L-R: Orange Lush, Rose Rush, Flirty Pink and Pink Pop

The SPF of 20 is an added benefit. They are natural and organic and without any parabens or preservatives. The pricing is also decent for the quantity of 4.2g and the packaging.

Clockwise left to right: Orange Lush, Rose Rush, Flirty Pink and Pink Pop

Overall I would say, I like the packaging, price point, staying power, for the desired pigmentation you do need to go over with a few swipes. Lighter colors are less pigmented and go a bit patchy, but the darker shades i.e. Rose Rush and Pink Pop went smoother. I recommend the darker shades in this range, Pink Pop is a must try.

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Have you checked out the new shades of Lotus Herbals EcoStay Long Lasting Lip Colours yet?

P.S: PR Samples.Honest Review

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?

Maybelline Baby Lips Candy Wow Peach Review, Swatches

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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

Calvin Klein ETERNITY NOW EDP Review

Calvin Klein, EDP, EDT, New Launches, Perfumes, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Calvin Klein ETERNITY NOW EDP Review

Claims: Eternity Now by Calvin Klein captures the thrill and raw emotion of new love, when two people realise that it is the beginning of forever. They come together in a moment of profound clarity where emotion transcends the physical and the sheer power of the connection is unexpected and undeniable.

The fragrance continues the brand’s heritage of florals by opening with a bold burst of freshness as the juicy nectarine, succulent lychee, and quince sorbet envelopes skin with light fruity nuances that radiate a distinctive youthful energy. The heart blooms with a floral bouquet of peony, peach blossoms, and dewy neroli petals, leading to a drydown of a soft cashmere veil and traces of sensual ambrox and precious musk that translate the attraction and power of a beautiful love story about to unfold.

Fragrance: Bright addictive floral.
Top notes: juicy nectarine, lychee, quince sorbet.
Mid notes: peony, peach blossom, neroli petals.
Bottom notes: Cashmere, Ambrox, Musk

The women’s ETERNITY NOW Calvin Klein scent is a floral blend of juicy lychee, peony and cashmere veil, created by perfumer Ilias Ermenidis of fragrance house Firmenich, in conjunction with fragrance consultant Ann Gottlieb.

After 27 years of ETERNITY, CK has come up with ETERNITY NOW. Top notes are made of litchi, and quince sorbet, with the heart of peony, peach blossom and neroli petals. The base includes cashmere, ambrox and musk. The fragrance is available in bottles of 30, 50 and 100 ml EDT.

MRP: Rs.3950/- for 50ml

The bottle is rounder from the bottom and the packaging is completely different from the original CK Eternity. The cap is not the usual, this time it is a clear, transparent cap with reflecting mirror on the top. The color is pink and silver and this packaging is is looking more classy and nice. Now I am not into floral or fruity smells but I love woody, musky smells. Especially in winters and/or night time.

I thought this would be more of fruity or floral, but the smell within 10 minutes settles to a beautiful warm, musk with a hint of floral. I absolutely love the smell. The floral is not strong or in your face, but very fresh kind.

Sillage/wear time is also decent, it stays for around 7-8 hours which is more than many other perfumes on me.

It is nowhere close to the original Calvin Klein Eternity if you have been thinking it might be similar.

It is not something everyone would like, so I suggest trying it out at the counters first, before investing in the product as it is not exactly cheap.

It is definitely slightly on the expensive side, I won’t say it’s a must have, but it’s a beautiful addition to your perfume collection. Definitely worth checking out.

Rating:

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

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Do you like original Calvin Klein Eternity? Are you keen on trying out the new Calvin Klein Eternity Now?

The Body Shop Oils Of Life Intensely Revitalizing Facial Oil First Impressions

Anti Ageing, New Launches, Reviews, Skin care, The Body Shop, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Body Shop Oils Of Life Intensely Revitalizing Facial Oil First Impressions

Hi guys,

I have been using the new Body Shop Oils of Life Intensely Revitalizing Facial Oil since a week now and here are my first impressions about it.

What the Company claims: Infused with three precious seed oils and a blend of seven essential oils, we’ve created the Oils of Life™ Intensely Revitalizing Facial Oil. The lightweight and quickly absorbing texture leaves a non-sticky finish, melting onto the skin, leaving it silky and soft. Instantly, skin appears smoother, more radiant, revived, revitalized and nourished. After 4 weeks, the signs of aging appear reduced, wrinkles appear minimized, and skin feels more elastic and firm.

How to use: This dermatologically tested oil can be applied every morning and evening before applying a cream. Apply 1 to 2 drops maximum (2-3 for very dry skin) onto the face and neck and gently massage into the skin. Follow with one of our Oils of Life moisturizers.

MRP: Rs.3095/- for 30ml

Ingredients:

It comes in a sleek and nice golden yellow glass bottle with a black dropper dispensor. The packaging is very convenient to use, though I am not sure how travel friendly it would be coz of the glass.

I love using oils on my face, using oils and serums at night is something I have been following since years and it really works amazing. Oils can be used even by people with oily skin, what it does it balances the oil secretion of the skin and also has amazing properties for revitalizing, firming and hydration of the skin. Different oils have different properties and this time Body Shop has come up with a combination of three special seed oils i.e Black Cumin, Camellia and Rosehip.Cold pressed seed oils are the purest form of oils and all their properties remain preserved. It also has a lot of other oils like Olive Oil as a base, Lavender Oil, Jojoba oil , Orange Peel Oil, etc.

I use 2-3 drops of it every night and massage it well on the skin, it has a complete dance routine massage video on their youtube channel. The smell is not unpleasing, it is nice, I do smell a hint of lavender and I really like lavender oil.

The oil is super light in texture and absorbs in a jiffy. Skin next day is super moisturised and plump, there is no redness or dryness. My skin was feeling very dry and stretchy as the winters had started, especially in the mornings, also coz of the AC at night. But since the time I have been using this, there are no dry patches and no stretchiness.

It also claims to have firming and anti-ageing properties, I cannot comment on it right now and would do a full review on it, post using it for a month.

It is slightly on the expensive side but all oils and serums in this category are almost in the same range. And since you need just 2-3 drops per use, this will easily last months

Overall I would say, I definitely recommend trying this out, especially if you love serums and oils. This is just a perfect blend of all the goodness of oils.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you checked out or tried the The Body Shop Oils Of Life Intensely Revitalizing Facial Oil yet?

Khadi Rose Water vs Fabindia Rose Water vs Lotus Herbals RoseTone Facial Toner

Comparison, Fabindia, Face Mist, Khadi, Lotus Herbals, Reviews, Rose Water, Skin care, Toners, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Khadi Rose Water vs Fabindia Rose Water vs Lotus Herbals RoseTone Facial Toner

By Archana

Rose water is a favorite beauty product for almost all of us. It has multiple uses, can be used as a toner, for mixing face packs, as a refreshing facial mist, to reduce stress in eyes and even for hair care. It is one product that suits all skin types, oily or dry skin. There are numerous brands rose waters available in the market. Today, I will be comparing three of the best brands’ rose waters – Khadi, Fabindia and Lotus Herbals. Ofcourse, there are more luxury brands offering rose waters like Kama Ayurveda, Forest Essentials, etc. which are undoubtedly superior, but for this post, am comparing the popular budget-friendly ones. Read on to know which one you need to get now.

Packaging:

Khadi rose water comes in a plastic bottle with a flip-flop cap and a small hole to dispense the product. While Fabindia and Lotus Herbals comes in a convenient spray form which is easy and quick to use as you can directly spray on face. Clearly, Khadi’s regular packaging, though good for body lotions and shampoos, is not apt for a rose water.

Texture and color:

Khadi rose water is just like plain water in color and texture. Fabindia rose water, while you spray onto your hands, foams a little. But apart from that, both Khadi and Fabindia feels just like applying water on your face. Gets absorbed quickly, no stickiness, greasiness and they don’t make your face oily. Lotus Herbals, being a toner, has a slightly more denser juice-like consistency due to ingredients like aloe vera juice. It is light pink in color, obviously, artificial color. Khadi and Fabindia rule in this aspect.

Fragrance:

Fabindia rose water has possibly the most natural, soothing and pleasant fragrance among the three. It smells just like fresh roses, though not overpowering. Khadi’s fragrance is good, though it is more artificial, more like the Dabur and Banjara’s ones. Lotus Herbals too has a nice pleasant fragrance which is a little more on the sweeter side compared to Fabindia and is more artificial.

Ingredients:

Fabindia rose water is 100% pure and made from steam distillation of roses. Khadi rose water mentions only rose petals and water in the ingredients list, but it doesn’t say whether it is prepared through steam distillation or conventional method of boiling the petals and filtering. Steam distillation is the more preferred method as just filtering might not exclude all the impurities. Lotus Herbals on the other hand contains not just roses but also tulsi leaves extract, aloe vera gel, vetiver extract, castor oil and parabens and fragrance too. Clearly Fabindia tops in the ingredients and method of preparation. Lotus Herbals is good if you are looking for extra benefits of other ingredients like tulsi, aloevera and vetiver as well.

Efficacy:

In terms of efficacy, I love Fabindia rose water as its made from 100% steam distillation of roses. So I can use it even for sensitive areas like eyes and also hair care without fear. Since its pure, you can also put few drops into your eyes to freshen and cool your eyes. I have combination skin and when I used it in summers it helped to soothe and calm sunburnt skin and also provide light hydration making my skin appear healthy and glowing. With Khadi rose water, the results are normal just like any other rose water. But I feel its not as hydrating as the Fabindia one. Lotus Herbals , being more of a proper toner, offers extra benefits like minimizing pores and smoothing out skin. But after appyling, it gives a little sticky and greasy feeling. It hydrates and moisturizes the skin very well and makes it soft and plumper. I have combination skin which gets dry in winters and this toner has helped my skin stay hydrated throughout. Sometimes, I even skip moisturizer. Though, I don’t think I can use this toner in summers. Also, it won’t be suitable for oily/acne-prone skin people. And unlike, pure rose water, this can’t be used for eyes or hair.

Price:

Fabindia Rose Water comes at Rs.175 for 100ml which is makes it almost 4.5 times costlier than Khadi Rose Water which comes at Rs.80 for 210ml. And what do you get extra in Fabindia rose water for it? Steam distilled pure rose water, soothing natural fragrance, better effects and convenient spray packaging. Lotus Herbals comes at Rs.265 for 100ml, but being a toner, its more concentrated and only little quantity is needed each time compared to the others. So one bottle will last really long.

Final Verdict:

Clearly, the winner among the three is Fabindia Rose Water. It offers the best results, suitable for all skin types, has a soothing and calming fragrance, is made from 100% steam distillation of rose petals and comes in a convenient spray packaging. Those who feel Fabindia Rose Water is costlier, can try Khadi Rose Water, which is definitely far better and pure than the Dabur Gulabari and Banjaras rose waters. Normal – dry skin people who need more hydration and looking for a proper toner, not just plain rose water can go for the Lotus Herbals one.

So I hope you enjoyed reading the post. Which one is your favorite rose water among the three? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.

Editor’s Note: That was a fabulous comparison Archana! I love the Kama Ayurveda Rose Water but yes it is on the costlier side, I would love to try the Fabindia one.

Plum Goodness NaturStudio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal Review, Swatches

Eye Liners, Eye Makeup, Eye Pencils, Kajal, Kohl, Makeup, New Launches, Plum Goodness, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Plum Goodness NaturStudio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: 100% smudge-proof. 100% preservative-free
For the first time in India, an ophthalmologically approved kajal pencil with a gel-liner like performance. 100% smudge-proof, water-proof single-swipe brilliant black kohl-cum-liner that’s also gentle on your eyes.

Welcome to NaturStudio. Where it’s all about the glam, minus the harm. Get the look of a gel liner in a simple pencil format. Easy to use, studio finish & filled with goodness.

♥ Soft, creamy, gel-based single-swipe darkest black.
♥ 100% smudge-proof and water-proof
♥ Brilliant black that looks “just applied” even after 12 hours.
♥ Preservative-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, paraffin-free
♥ Dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested & approved
♥ Rich in Vitamin E for care and protection
♥ 100% vegan formula, not tested on animals
♥ Full-size 1.2g pencil – 4 times the kajal found in twister kajals (which contain 0.31g). Lasts at least twice as long.
♥ Made in Germany

Ingredients: Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Rice Bran Wax, Natural Vitamin E

This requires the use of a high-quality cosmetic pencil sharpener to sharpen properly. Using poor quality sharpeners or stationery pencil sharpeners will damage the tip and the pencil.

Plum is always free of parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, SLS, DEA and PABA

MRP: Rs.425/- for 1.2g

It is recommended to buy with a dual sharpener they stock which is priced at Rs.125/- They also have Angel Eyes Kohl Kajal which is priced the same but meant for very sensitive eyes, so those who have super sensitive eyes should go for the latter.

The sharpener is also purple but has neon green cap which is hygienic and safe from dust, etc. It sharpens the kajal perfectly and can also be used for other eye pencils and lip crayons.

It comes in this purple and black packaging and in sharpenable form. It is super jet black, very pigmented and gives a good colour in one swipe, it does smudge if you smudge it immediately but within 1-2 minutes it sets and doesn’t budge at all.

It is waterproof and requires a very good makeup remover to take it off completely. I have used it on my upper lash line here, it stays for about 8-9 hours on my upper lash line and even longer, it just fades a bit post that but still does not smudge untill I take it off with a makeup remover.

Here I have used it on the waterline, it does smudge a bit on the waterline but stays intense for 4-5 hours after which it fades a bit but doesn’t go away completely which is amazing for my super watery eyes, coz no kajal stays more than 2-3 hours before fading on my waterline.

I have loved the Lakme Absolute Kohl Ultimate the most and found it the most water proof, long staying and smudge resistant amongst all kajals in the market, I would give this the 2nd place coz it comes super close in many aspects but price wise, this definitely is a winner. Also both are manufactured by Schwan-Stabilo Cosmetics in Germany which makes the best eye pencils. Even Kryolan Ikonic and Sugar Cosmetics Kajal are manufactured by the same company, I believe even Faces Cosmetics Eye Pencils.

At 425, it is very economical and you can sharpen and use it many times. I don’t prefer wearing it on upper lash line often as it gives a thicker line and gets blunt and round when used even once on the upper lash line but for waterline, it is perfect and can be used a couple of times before sharpening. Sharpening does lead to wastage as in all sharpenable pencils but is good for hygienic reasons. Also I do agree on it having more quantity than twist up kajals as they are mostly 0.31g, but here some product also goes waste in sharpening, still you get more qty than twist up ones.

Overall I would say, it is one of the best kajals in India currently and I highly recommend trying this out. If no kajal stays long on you and you have watery eyes like me, this will. I only wish the sharpener came along with the kajal and one wouldn’t have to buy it separately shelling 125 bucks extra.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you checked out or tried the Plum Goodness NaturStudio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal yet?