Tag Archives: bridal skin care

Top 10 Beauty Must haves for the Winter Bride

Top 10 Beauty Must Haves for the Winter Bride

Hi guys,

So the wedding season is here and I have some beauty must haves and handy tips for all you winter brides. Here you go:

The Mumbai Bride Diaries: Final Bridal Pictures, Indian Bride, Gujurati Bride, Cory Walia Bridal Makeup

1. Rich Moisturizer

That will be the number 1 requirement in winters. Skin will be dry and patchy which will lead to redness and unevenness on the skin, a rich moisturizer is what you must never skip. Apply it every morning on cleansed skin and maybe even reapply if your skin feels stretchy again throughout the day.

2. Sunscreen & Scarf/Umbrella

Oh the last minute shopping and rushing for the final trials & fittings, you do not want to be burned or tanned. While your sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from sun’s rays, it won’t help prevent tanning. You will have to cover your head with a nice scarf or better is to use an umbrella, no shame in protecting your skin before your big day!

3. Body Butter

Taking care of your body is equally essential because you don’t want dry patches or flaky skin. A good, rich body butter will keep your skin protected from the harsh winters & dryness

4. Exfoliator

Exfoliating is very essential to get rid of dead skin cells. Skin layer renews every 21 days and if the old and dead skin cells are not exfoliated, the new skin will come over the dead skin cells forming oil clogs, etc. So exfoliating your face once a week with a mild Exfoliator is a must for the bride-to-be. In the same way, body needs exfoliation too and the body Exfoliator can be a little rougher. Do not forget areas like the elbows and the knees

5. Night cream/Serum/Oil

Skin renews faster and absorbs products the quickest during night time. A rich night cream will give you soft, supple skin the next morning. These days you also get serums for targeted issues or a blend of essential oils which are natural and organic and yet work deep within your skin.

6. Lip Balm

Lips gets very dry and chapped in winters and if your lips are chapped, no lipstick or makeup would look good. So use a lip balm everyday & gently exfoliate your lips with a toothbrush in the morning while brushing your teeth. This will keep your lips soft & supple.

7. Deep conditioning hair mask

Hair is often ignored and taken for granted by brides-to-be. The main hair concern in winters is usually frizziness & dandruff. While dandruff can be taken care of by oiling or using an anti-dandruff shampoo, your hair will need moisture & hydration which only deep conditioning can give. So use a deep conditioning hair mask to nourish the hair and keep frizz at bay

8. Deep lipstick shades

Every bride-to-be should have a red lipstick in her stash. (MAC Ruby Woo is your best bet). But for winter weddings, deep plum and wine shades are IN this season. Check out L’Oreal Paris Pure Red Lipstick in Pure Garnet.

9. Neutral eyeshadow Palette

A neutral palette with golds, plums and browns is all you need when it comes to eyeshadows. If you are confused, go for Urban Decay Naked Palette.

10. Blush/Highlighter

A rosy pink blush to accentuate your cheeks and a good highlighter to enhance that bridal glow.

That’s it. What do you think are the beauty must haves for the winter bride?

Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual (Argan Facial) at Lakme Salon

My experience of the Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual (Argan Facial) at Lakme Salon

Moroccan Magic, Now for your skin

Discover the Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual, our new signature facial at your nearest Lakme salon.

As a woman, aging is something you battle every day of your life. And now on, you will be on the winning side.

For the first time in India, Lakme salon brings to you the remarkable goodness of Argan oil for your skin. It’s made from the kernels of the Argan tree fruit found in Morocco. Argan oil is enriched with high levels of cosmetic, therapeutic, hydrating and nutritious properties that help you fight against premature aging and the harsh UV rays.

Indulge in our magical Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual to rejuvenate your skin’s ageless glow. It helps your skin maintain the necessary levels of collagen, which diminishes due to age and the rough environmental conditions. It is also effective against aging, cell degeneration, skin inflammation, dryness and slight acne.

Book your appointment right away to experience the magic.

MRP: Rs.2700/-

Duration: 60 minutes

Know Lakme’s exclusive 3 step Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual:

1. DETOX

Gel cleanser (Lakme Professional Cleansing Gel) followed by an enzymatic based scrub for exfoliation (They use Christine Valmy Vegetal Peel– Bromelin, Papaya, Pineapple)

• A mixture of Lactic acid (Lakme Professional- contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids) along with other actives (Christine Valmy Special Cream 11) are mixed together and applied to desquamate cells and help better penetration.

• The skin is neutralized by a skin toner. (Lakme Professional)

2. REVIVE

• Pure Argan oil (Moroccanoil) is applied to the clean skin with gentle pressure point massage for 10 minutes followed by Gold peel off masque. (Lakme Professional-Lemon, cucumber, green tea, vitamin C)

• Skin instantly feels fresh, hydrated and nourished once the masque is peeled off.

• It’s later cleansed with a toner to remove the residues of the masque.

3. RENEW

•To finish the experience, few drops of the Argan oil is applied on the skin as a moisturizer, followed by Moisture Finish Vit E Suncreen. (Lakme Sunscreen)

I had gone for trying out this facial at the Lakme Salon, Bandra..and at first I was a little skeptic of argan oil on my face..but the procedure as a whole sounded good. The girl I was attended by, explained the whole treatment to me in detail. She told me its a hydrating facial and it repairs the skin..but that does not mean people with oily skin cannot go for this facial since it helps with Grade 1 acne too…only if you have too many pimples and Grade 3 acne, they would avoid doing this facial on you.

It helps in cell regeneration, improves skin’s elasticity and healing acne scars, etc making you skin more softer, clearer and supple.

At first, the skin was cleansed followed by a enzyme based vegetal peel. Then, lactic used mixed with Special Cream 11 is applied all over as a pack..there can be mild tingling here since the lactic acid has AHA’s. Its followed by a toner and Morocaanoil..which is massaged all over the face for better penetration..the 10 minutes massage for the head, face and neck is the best part here..deeply relaxing..I did bet you would sleep!

Then, a gold peel off masque is applied till it sets dry and is peeled off..followed at the end by few drops of Moroccanoil and sunscreen (for protection since your skin is peeled coz of lactic acid and AHA’s)

I saw my skin looked fresh and hydrated and there was a glow. But, the skin looked even more better after 1-2 days. The effect stays for a week or so. Also, the dead skin cells are gone, so you get rid of the tan too. I had gone for this service before..and now I am so tanned that I need it again 😀

Before- After

I am not sure if you can see much difference in this before-after pic coz of the lighting there.

I think its totally worth a try before your special event or something..though its priced at a higher side for your normal regular monthly facial if you go for one..but worth a investment once in 5-6 months.

My only issue was they used Moroccanoil on the face..I mean I agree its pure and all,but its a hair product for a reason. I would have much preferred if they did use pure argan oil. Also, I got a small pimple after a day or two..so since the face is cleansed of dirt, etc..sometimes it first reacts and one may break out as it all comes out and up.But soon the skin settles and you would see good results.

Some precautions to be taken:

  • Do not thread or bleach 4-5 days before going for this facial and 7 days after.
  • Do not use any creams, serums,etc on your face after this facial for 7 days..just a mild face wash and sunscreen.
  • Use enough sunscreen if you going to be out in the sun, after this facial, since it involves a peel.

Ya, I guess if you follow these basic things, you are good to go. If you have tried this facial or if you try now, do let me know your comments and views below.

Have you/Will you try the new Moroccan Liquid Gold Ritual at Lakme Salon ?

P.S: Services were provided complimentary but that has not affected my review.

Kaya Aqua Radiance Service Review

Kaya Aqua Radiance Service Review

Well with tons and tons of weddings right now, (I have already attended 4 engagements, 3 sangeets and 3 weddings :/) what one needs is glowing beautiful skin and Kaya comes to our rescue..

Remember the Aqua Fairness Luxe which I got done just before my engagement (read about it HERE)..how it left my skin super glowing and flawless..

This time I tried the Kaya Aqua Radiance..I went to Kaya Skin Clinic at Nirmal Lifestyles, Mulund-W. Neha attended to me..and I enjoyed my favorite signature Kaya drink…the apple,cinnamon,honey combo is divine.

Coming back to Aqua Radiance,the main difference between Aqua Fairness Luxe and Aqua Radiance is that in Aqua Fairness Luxe, 10% Glycolic Infusion is done..and a brightening mask is used at the end..whereas in Aqua Radiance, in place of 10% Glycolic Infusion, some vitamins are infused into the skin after the exfoliation..which vitamin serum is used depends on your skin type and skin issues..Skin Glow Serum was used for me..there is one for Anti- Ageing, Vitamin C for pigmentation, Hydrating one, etc..

Rest everything done is same as in Aqua Fairness Luxe..

Stage 1: Lymphatic Drainage

Stage 2: Exfoliation

Stage 3: Vitamin Infusion

Stage 4: Comedone extraction

Stage 5: Massage

Process: Kaya Aqua Radiance is a revolutionary service which, for the first time, painlessly infuses vitamins as deep as 4.5 mm into your 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 deep cleansing process also unclogs blackheads, leaving your skin spotless and fresh.
Jet M Machine
Jet M machine, a hand piece with a specialized nozzle, directs a powerful jet of saline water onto the skin and its matching high energy sprays, cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin. Soon after exfoliation, nutrients such as Vitamin A+E, B5, C and Hyaluronic acid are infused at high pressure, resulting in better penetration. Comedone extraction is carried out using a special vacuum operated device. Finally, application of Daily Use sunscreen.
That’s what makes the Aqua Radiance treatment so much more effective at exfoliating, hydrating and rejuvenating than other superficial care.

Result:
  • Smooth Exfoliation: Gently and effectively removes dead skin layers to reveal your naturally lustrous skin
  • Deep Nourishment: A vitamin-rich oxygen infusion acts on the deep dermis and cleanses impurities from within
  • Intense Hydration: A soft supersonic nozzle stream adds essential moisture, cooling and refreshing your skin
Maintenance: Dead skin cells accumulate on your skin every 30 days as a natural process. It is advisable to remove these cells once a month to keep your skin healthy and radiant. Therefore we recommend this service to be taken once a month.

Duration : 1 hour

Price: Rs.2000/-

I loved how skin felt all hydrated and nourished from inside after the Aqua Radiance..you can feel the hydration of aqua seeping into the skin.

And exfoliation gives a different look and feel to the skin. I surely recommend it..in fact people who get their regular facials done, should try this..it is recommended once a month..even if you do not wish to get it done that regularly, once in 2-3 months would help too..

Now which do I personally recommend out of the two, Aqua Fairness Luxe or Aqua Radiance ?
I would say if you have some special occasion lined up..like your own personal functions or a very close relative or a family member’s occasion, go for Aqua Fairness Luxe..without a doubt ! And if you want your dose of regular facials and routine skin care or just want to hydrate or prep up skin, go for Aqua Radiance.

I hope this clears your doubts 🙂

Have you tried the Kaya Aqua Fairness Luxe or Aqua Radiance ?

Do let me know in the comments below..

P.S: Services provided by Kaya Skin Clinic but that has not affected my opinion.

Kaya Aqua Fairness Luxe Service Review

Kaya Aqua Fairness Luxe Service Review

I got a chance to try the Aqua Fairness Luxe Service by Kaya at the perfect time..right before my engagement when I was anyways going to get something done..

Many complimented my skin after seeing this pic below (got the service done just before the mehendi and this pic is taken 2-3 hours after the Aqua Fairness Luxe) and mentioned it was glowing..I would say all thanks to the Kaya Aqua Fairness Luxe.

I had mentioned about the Aqua Fairness Luxe last year HERE and about the August Rush HERE where they are offering 50% discount on some of their services including the Kaya Aqua Fairness Luxe.

When I went to Kaya, I consulted the doc and got a skin analysis done..she showed me the areas where I have pigmentation..there were dead skin cells and tanned areas like forehead…ewww it looked bad :/

She suggested Skin Lightening Peels or Aqua Fairness Luxe..and explained both the procedures..I went for the Aqua Fairness Luxe..

I was introduced to my attendant..she was quite good..and made sure I was comfortable..and explained everything step by step..and answered all my queries..since it is something related to my face and skin and this was just 2 days before my engagement..yes I was wary !

Aqua Fairness Luxe consists of five stages..let me explain the whole procedure..

Stage 1: Lymphatic Drainage

Water jet peel technology is used for this..a pen shaped nozzle dispensor is used to  dispense compressed air consisting of saline water all over the face..the velocity is low..and it pulls across the dead skin cells to one side..i.e the outside corners. Its done twice all over the face.

Stage 2: Exfoliation

The same dispensor and machine is used, this time with more velocity and more closer to the skin..to exfoliate the dead skin cells from the skin. Even this is done twice all over the face.

Stage 3: 10% Glycolic Infusion

The same machine is used to infuse 10% glycolic peel all over the face..it tingles a little which is very normal..and is kept for a minute. Then its washed off and a cooling neutralizing cream is applied. She extracted my black and white heads later on.

Stage 4: Massage

Face was massaged with aloe vera gel later on for 10-15 minutes.

Stage 5: Brightening Mask

A brightening mask was applied on the skin which was to be kept for 20 minutes and eye pads and blanket..I just dozed off :p

More about the process: This summer, reverse the effects of the sweltering heat and scorching sun with a new skin care service from Kaya Skin Clinic – Aqua Fairness Luxe, a new innovation for instantly brighter looking skin.

For the first time in India, Kaya presents a fairness service which uses the water jet peel technology and an innovative Micropatch Botanical whitening extracts mask. Aqua Fairness Luxe gives you instant fairness in just 60 minutes and also two tones lighter skin in just 6 sessions.

This unique enhancement service uses the revolutionary water jet technology to exfoliate the skin, remove dead cells and create channels for deep glycolic infusion going up to 4.5mm deep into the skin. The glycolic fruit peel which is derived from sugarcane extracts penetrates into the skin easily, allowing new skin to surface quicker. This is followed by comedone extraction after which you can relax with a cooling massage with aloe vera gel to improve blood circulation and to soothe tired and overworked muscles. The service is completed by the application of Kaya’s Insta Brightening Micro Mask, with botanical whitening extracts and the innovative Micropatch technology which has a powerful and quick de-pigmentation effect. It breaks down melanin to give you instant fairness.

The whole procedure takes around one and a half hour..and  one single session costs Rs.3000/-..if you go for 3 sessions, you need to pay Rs.8000/- but this month they have a special offer where you can get 3 sessions at flat 50% off at Rs.4000/-..totally worth it !

Post care: One is supposed to apply sunscreen and moisturiser..and no active ingredients i.e anti acne or other stuff to be used for 2-3 days. Wash face only with plain water. No parlor activities i.e waxing, threading, bleaching, etc for 7 days before and after the service.

It is advisable to undertake 3 sessions of this service at a gap of 15 days to enjoy best results- even toned, flawless skin.

I totally loved it !! And surely going for more of these..highly recommend trying this out..only after the consultation with the doctor though..

P.S: Services offered by Kaya but it has not affected my opinion.

How to get a glowing skin?

How to get a glowing skin?

Guest Post by Jessica
Every one of us dream of having a glowing skin that is perfect but very few of us are lucky enough in gaining a healthy skin that is healthy and glowing. There are various factors that contribute for a healthy skin. Here are a few factors that can help you to maintain a glowing skin:

Let your skin glow naturally:
Fresh vegetables and fruits can provide you with all the essential nutrients and vitamins that help you in maintaining a healthy skin tone. Hence instead of spending most of your money on buying expensive skin care products invest your time in eating healthy food. Papaya, guava, spinach and lime are rich in vitamin A which aid in skin growth. The antioxidant property of tomatoes can help you to protect your skin from damage.

The magic of water:
Water has various different benefits that can help you in maintaining a healthy body. Make sure you drink lot of water especially during the summer season in order to flush out the toxins that are present in the body. The combination of hydrogen and oxygen molecules can help you to maintain the elasticity of the skin. It is very essential to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day. Steaming once in a week can help you to get glowing skin.

Take good care of your skin:
Always use minimum amount of makeup for your skin. Cleanse your skin well at least twice a day .Apply sunscreen lotion every time you leave your house. It can help you prevent sun damage to your skin. Lip balm or Chap Stick can be used to protect your lips from the harmful effects of the sun. Washing your face every night before you go to bed can help you remove all the environmental factors that are present in your skin.

Exercise regularly:
A healthy diet and good physical activity are the two crucial factors that can help you to maintain a glowing skin in the long run. Cardio exercises can make your skin glowing as it stimulates blood flow in your body. You can even maintain a healthy body and stay physically fit. Make sure you follow regular exercise regime in order to experience the benefits throughout your life.

Other factors:
Stress can be a major factor that can affect the skin texture and glow. It is very essential to lead a healthy life with minimum stress and tension. Make sure you get plenty of sleep every day. Use the best skin care products to enjoy the best benefits. Choose products that have minimum side effects on your skin. Never use too much of make up on your skin and if you do so don’t forget to remove them every night before going to bed. Try to keep your hands away from your face as they oil present in your hand can clog the pores which are present in your face. The above tips and suggestions can help you to maintain a glowing skin forever.


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Aroma Magic Oxy Pack Review

Blossom Kocchar Aroma Magic Oxy Face Pack Review


What the Company claims: Helps to oxygenate the skin to keep cells flexible. Removes waste and toxins and boost circulation.The natural botanicals fights free radicals, regenerates cell metabolism, helps hyper pigmentation and lightens the skin.

MRP: Rs. 120/- for 20g, Rs. 215/- for 50g and Rs. 655/- for 200g (Its available for Rs. 102/- and Rs. 183/- on Stylecraze )

Active Ingredients: Grape Fruit, Seaweed, Aloe Vera, Vitamin A & C & Hydrolysed Protein, & Pure essential oils of Chamomile, Patchouli, Lavender and Neroli.

Usage : Apply Aroma Magic Oxy Face Pack on face and wipe off after 20 minutes. Alternatively mix 1/2 tsp of Aroma Magic Oxy Face Pack with 1/4th teaspoon of Enzyme Peel Scrub to make a paste and apply onto face. Wipe off after 20 minutes. Use morning & night.

I have the 50g pack..you can try the 20g pack if you find it..but generally the 50g pack is available everywhere…

It comes in a tub form and is transparent gel like..it does not have any particular smell. You just need a dollop of it and spread around a thin layer on face. Keep it for 20 minutes and it would start drying a little and then wash off…

Pros:

1. This is the best face pack I have used ever !
2. I guess now the other pros are not even needed but still..it does what it claims.
3. It does lighten your age spots or scars and would also remove your tan.
4. The best thing is the effect it gives does stay and it does not give temporary results which go away in a day or two.
5. Skin is softer, smoother and glowing.
6. It does not give a dry or stretchy feeling..and feels fine even after 20 minutes.
7. Totally worth the price..the quantity of 50g would last 12-14 times which is super cheap compared to what one would spend in parlors or salons.
8. I guess the perfect blend of ingredients and essential oils makes it that good.

Cons:

1. Comes in a tub..difficult to use and unhygienic too.
2. Aroma Magic only states the active ingredients on all its products. They should give complete ingredients too.

I do not have any other cons for it. After the Aroma Magic Mineral Glow Scrub this is another hit with AM !

Overall I love it a lot and I surely recommend it to everyone !

Rating:

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

Overall Rating: 4.25/5

Would I buy it again: Any doubts !

Have you tried the Aroma Magic Packs ?