I don’t generally go to salons for facials and clean ups, I prefer taking care of my skin at home and follow the basic skin care routine regularly. If you spend even 5-10 minutes on your skin daily and the scrub/mask routine once/twice a week, you won’t need any fancy or expensive salon facials/clean ups.
Now a clean-up is important coz sometimes the blackheads and whiteheads are not really visible but they do develop when the pores are blocked or there is dirt in the pores which is not cleaned regularly.
Here is how I do a mini clean-up at home:
1. Wash your face with a face wash. My Holy Grail is the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem face wash.
2. Cleanse your face with a milk based cleanser. Now there are quite a few options available, you can also try the Himalaya Herbals Refreshing Cleansing Milk. Massage for a minute to two and wipe it off with a damp cotton ball
3. Take steam on the face. If you don’t have a steam machine, just boil some water and bend your face over it covering with a towel. It will do the job equally well.
4. Extract comedones, either use cotton on both of your hands to press the skin and extract it or use a blackhead extractor for deep rooted blackheads. You get it for about 50-60 rupees. Just sanitise and clean it before using and even after using.
6. Toner. You can either use rose water or cucumber water or any alcohol free toner to close the pores. It is very important to close the pores which have opened with the steam.
7. Follow it up with a face pack. Now again I would go with either the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack if I have acne or the Himalaya Herbals Fairness Kesar Face Pack if I want to get rid of tan. Keep it for 10-15 minutes and also use cotton balls soaked in rose water over the eyes and just relax. Take it all off with a damp cotton ball. Wash your face with water if you feel like.
8. Moisturize your face with your regular moisturizer.
9. Apply a sunscreen/sunblock
That’s it, you are done. This whole procedure will take about 30 minutes including the face pack. You can do it once a week on a Saturday or Sunday, you can spend at least 30 minutes in a week over your skin, if not, once in two weeks is a must! Also if you do not do it regularly, the whiteheads and blackheads will not be extracted, the skin won’t be exfoliated. Dead skin cells will form a layer and the blackheads will turn to acne.
Regular skin care is important even if you have good skin, to maintain it. Do not take your skin for granted. Your skin gets regenerated every 21 days, so at least follow this simple clean-up at home once every 2 weeks i.e. 14 days.
Few points to remember:
1. Always use products according to your skin type or how your skin is behaving during that time.
2. Do not be harsh on your skin, do not scrub vigorously or over exfoliate.
3. Always end with a sun block/sunscreen even if you are not stepping out
There are a lot of products available in the market if you do not have extra time to DIY at home. I like Himalaya Herbals products and have been using them since my college days. They are affordable and easily available.
You can check out Himalaya Herbals on Facebook HERE and on twitter HERE and also more from their Face Care Range HERE
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, Astringent Toner Review
Hi guys.
If you follow me on Snapchat or Instagram, you must have seen both these products as a part of my skincare routine. I have been testing these out since a few weeks and here are my thoughts..
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo + Acne Treatment
Claims: Fresh gel-cream, 24hr hydratation and long lasting mattity. Absorbs quickly for a non-sticky, non-oily finish.
Properties : Complete care with reinforced anti-imperfection efficacy, thanks to Procerad™, an exclusive anti-marks active ingredient.
Non comedogenic , Hypoallergenic, No paraben
Nickel-tested (developed for people who are sensitive to nickel.
Result :
After 24 hours:imperfections look visibly less red*.
After 8 days: localised imperfections appear significantly reduced*.
After 4 weeks: pores look unclogged, skin texture looks refined. Controls the appearance of shine**.
Efficacy : Active ingredient innovation: anti-red and brown marks efficacy.
PROCERAD™ A patented ceramide helps protect against the appearance of red or brown marks.
This new active ingredient strengthens the anti-imperfection performance of the current active ingredients:
1. NIACINAMIDE The reference anti-inflammatory active ingredient for intensive soothing.
2. PIROCTONE OLAMINE To combat bacterial proliferation.
3. LHA AND SALICYLIC ACID For their complementary keratolytic actions.
4. TARGETED LINOLEIC ACID To regulate keratinocytes, plus target the follicle.
Ingredients:
How to use product: Apply to whole face morning and/or evening after cleansing skin with EFFACLAR FOAMING GEL. Excellent make-up base.
Now this is a much raved about product and I got it at the right time when I was having some whiteheads and small zits all around the nose.
I love the easy, travel friendly tube packaging and the nozzle dispensor just dispenses the right amount of product. You don’t need too much with it.
This does have sort of a medicinal smell, you can smell the salicylic acid. It’s a white colored gel-creme and is very light weight and water based. You need a tiny, pea sized amount per application and it gets absorbed in a jiffy.
This does not tingle or burn and all the white heads are gone in a day and if there are zits, they are considerably smaller in size. There is no redness or irritation around the zit.
I love the fact that it has salicylic acid and LHA which not only fight the bacteria and spread the germs from spreading, it gently micro exfoliates the skin and the niacinamide reduced the inflammation and redness and also helps in healing the skin and not leaving behind a mark of the zit.
As mentioned, you can see the difference in a day and week and with prolong use over a month, your pore size will be a little reduced, your pores will be cleaner and there will be hardly any breakouts. If at all you breakout, it will heal and settle much quicker.
You can even use this a spot treatment only on the zits.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Micro-Exfoliant Toner
Claims: Effaclar Clarifying Lotion helps to eliminate remaining excess oil, unblock pores and visibly reduce their size. Contains LHA’s (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid).
Indications : Oily, imperfection and blemish-prone skin. Irregular skin texture. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Properties : Used after washing, this product helps to eliminate remaining excess oil, unblock pores and visibly reduce their size. Contains LHA’s (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid).
Result / Proof : The pores are tightened, the skin texture is finer and more even.
Efficacy / Action : Astringent micro-exfoliating lotion helps instantaneously reduce pore size and fight against blockage, thanks to the combination of sebum-regulating and purifying ingredients as well as micro-exfoliating LHA.
It comes in a long, slender transparent bottle and the liquid is watery with a slight blue tint. It has a strong acidic smell though.
I usually take some on a cotton ball after cleansing and apply it all over the face. Now you can smell the toner and also the eyes would burn a bit for a second. If there are any fresh zits or breakouts, it will tingle for a minute.
Even though they mention it is suitable for sensitive skin, I would advise doing a patch test first coz I feel it will be a little strong for sensitive skin.
It definitely does tighten and cleanse the pores and the pore size appears reduced over a period of time. It controls excessive oil secretion and balances the skin.
It works amazingly well in combination with the effaclar duo, especially if you have oily, acne prone skin.
Both the products are slightly on the expensive side but they do give results! If you have acne prone skin and you get breakouts often, then this range is totally worth the money for you.
If you do not break out as often like me, I would still advise having these in your stash, to use on days when you break out. I am not using this currently as my skin is clear right now, but I am going to get back to it again when I break out, that is once in few weeks.
I totally recommend having these two in your stash or as a part of your skin care regime depending on your skin type. If I have to recommend one, definitely the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, it is totally worth the hype!
Have you tried the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo? And the new toner?
Having a flat and taut tummy is one such accessory that grabs eyeballs instantly. Be it a figure-hugging one-piece or the graceful 9-yards (read: saree), a flat tummy is the ideal finishing touch to any attire. Not only does it manifest that one takes her body and its appearance seriously but also is a mark of proper upkeep. Keeping in mind that life these days is fraught with stress and unhealthy diet (envisage as many insalubrious food items you stoked in to your system right now… Yes, I know guilt would be knocking you down now), here is a brief rundown of 7 easy exercises that you can incorporate in your daily fitness regimen to kick that flab off your body!
1. CRUNCHES– Crunches help one tone and tighten the muscles in the stomach and you do not need any sophisticated equipment to get going too! Just flat on the ground and wake up- it is as simple as that. However, the key is to wake up while keeping your entire body (from your head to the waist) straight (as if in a line) and focus on an object (say the ceiling). DO NOT bend your head/neck. It will undermine your entire posture. 15 reps is a good enough number for a novice.
2. SIDE PLANKS- Planks are one of the best exercises for a flat, toned stomach because they work on all the muscles in your core. To do so, all you need to do is, lie on your left side with your knees straight. Raise your body up on your left elbow and forearm, feet stacked. Raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from your ankles to your shoulders. Hold this position for half a minute. That’s one rep. 10 reps are good for a beginner. Increase the frequency and duration as you get habituated with it.
3. MOGUL JUMP- Mogul jumps give one’s hips, abs and back muscles a strenuous workout which helps one kick fat promptly. To perform the Mogul jump, raise your knees a few inches off the floor while keeping your hands and feet in their position. Make a jumping movement, shifting your feet to the left. Then, similarly jump them to the right. During this ensure that your feet stay together.
4. BURPEES- Burpees set a lot of muscles to work in our body which helps one lose fat from the belly swiftly. To do this exercise, stand up straight with your legs apart about shoulder-width. Start lowering your body till your palms lie flat on the floor, the same width apart as your legs. Kick your legs out from under you in backward direction so you are in a position to perform push-ups. Do a single push up and pull your legs back. Then, stand back up with a jump, and repeat the whole exercise. That’s it, wasn’t it cushy?
5. ELBOW PLANK- The elbow plank is a slight variation of the simple plank. All you need to do is now balance on the part of your hand extending from the elbows to the fingers. Do not let your hips or abdomen droop. Hold the position for half a minute and there goes one rep!
6. THE V-HOLD- The simplest of all the exercises so far- the V-Hold requires you to lie down on your back while placing your hands under your butt for leverage. Lift back and legs off ground. Hold “V” position for 15 to 30 seconds.
7. THE WINDMILL EXERCISE- The windmill exercise targets the oblique(meaning side) abs. To perform it, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Hold a kettle-bell (any bearable weight) in your left hand. bring the weight onto your left shoulder and press it overhead. While you rotate your chest to the left, you need to look at your kettle-bell (or any weight that you may have opted for) as you reach your right foot with your right hand. Pause for half a minute and revert to your former self. You have perfected the exercise, lady!
Whatever be the attire, if you have got a pair of sculpted and toned legs to flaunt, it’s going to be a much-needed icing on the cake. When it comes to Western wear particularly those that reveal one’s legs such as- shirt dresses, skirts, hot pants, capris or even an itsy-bitsy two-piece, a pair of toned legs is a sight to behold. Given the paucity of time at hand, here is a rundown on some easy exercises that you can incorporate in your life to leave you with a pair of absolutely enviable toned legs.
Awaken the fitness freak in you!
1. SQUATS- You would have probably heard that squats are the key to tighter and toned butts. They are. What’s lesser known is that squats also leave you with absolutely drool-worthy legs that you just can’t stop looking at with sheep’s eyes. Squats assist in building muscles (including one’s quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves). Simply stand with your feet apart, roughly as much as the distance between both your shoulders. Stand straight- this is the MOST important point. If done erroneously, it will undermine your entire body posture. Bend over your knees and make a 90 degrees angle. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 10 times. Increase the frequency with experience and ease.
2. SKATER LUNGE- To do this exercise, you need to have a considerable hold on your body that is, balance. Don’t fret, you don’t need to be an expert, just a little control on your posture. How to do this? Cross your right leg behind your left leg as you bend your left knee into a half-squat position. Extend your left arm out to the side, and swing your right arm across your hips. Hop a few feet directly to the right, switching the position of your legs and arms. Done? Great, that’s one rep. Continue hopping from side to side till you reach 10 reps. Increase the frequency overtime.
3. LEG LIFTS- This one’s a cakewalk! Simply lie flat on your back with your legs stretched out in front of you. Now, bend your knees, straighten your legs and straighten your legs until your feet are pointed at the ceiling. Hold for 30 seconds and that’s it. One rep is completed! Didn’t I tell you it was a piece of cake? Increase the frequency as you get accustomed to it.
4. HIP BRIDGE- The bridge (also known as the hip raise) is an excellent exercise for strengthening the back of the legs as well as the core. Please do not do this you have back injuries. To those who don’t, doing this is a cakewalk. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Then, raise your hips in such a way that your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Pause and then slowly lower your body back to the floor. That’s it! You have aced one rep.
5. STANDING FORWARD BEND/UTTANASANA- Here comes an asana from a centuries-long science of healing and well-being- Yoga that would leave you with sculpted legs in no time. If you have any back injuries, please do not give it a shot. Uttanasana looks arduous yet once developed a hang of, it becomes a cakewalk. All you need to do is keep your knees straight, place your fingertips or palms on the floor beside your feet, or touch the back of your ankles with your palms. Hold the pose for 30 seconds and revert to the original posture.
6. WARRIOR POSE 3/VIRBHADRAASANA – Another Yoga asana to your rescue, Virbhadrasana helps one battle cellulite. Simply lift your left leg backwards as you inhale, extend your hands, ensure that your back is straight and once your left leg and hands are completely horizontal, exhale. That’s all, wasn’t it cushy?
7. LOW LUNGE- This exercise not only works on one’s legs but also aligns the back incredibly. All that needs to be done is extend one’s leg (say-left) backwards while keeping the other one (right)bent. Then, clasp your hands together and stretch upwards as much as you can.
DIY At Home Facial with R.K’s Aroma Moringa Facial Kit
Hi guys,
So I did a facial yesterday at home and recorded it for my YouTube channel, I used this R.K’s Aroma Moringa Facial Kit and hence I thought of reviewing it here too and showing you guys the video..
What is Moringa? The super plant Moringa is native to Africa and Asia, and is widespread among the lush, green foothills of the Himalayas. It belongs to the Moringaceae family, and derives its name from the Malayalam word, ‘Muringa’. Its leaves, pods, fruits, flowers and bark are all abundant in restoratory and healing properties, making it a powerhouse of nutrients and anti-oxidants; a bounteous natural agent, generous with its benefits, truly worthy of the moniker ‘miracle tree’.
Benefits of Moringa: Moringa is rich in vitamins C and E, and contains over 30 different natural anti-oxidants, minerals, phytonutrients and natural anti-inflammatory agents that gently soothe the skin. Perfect for everyday use, Moringa prevents the onset of blackheads, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and protects from sun burn and minor skin infections. It softly cleanses the skin without robbing it of its natural radiance, while its anti-ageing properties rejuvenate and bring it to life.
Directions:
1. Clean the face with Moringa Cleansing Lotion to cleanse and minimize the pores.
2. Apply Exfoliating Scrub and gently massage for 5-7 minutes for skin exfoliation. Clean the face with wet cotton. Steam your face for 2-5 minutes.
3. Now take Moringa Cream approximately 3-4gms and add 2-3 drops of Moringa oil and massage for 10-15 minutes. Wipe off the excessive cream with cotton or tissue.
4. Apply Moringa Gel and massage for 5-8 minutes and wipe off the excess.
5. Apply Moringa Mask by mixing it with required amount of water, keep it for 5-10 minutes until it dries off and then wash it off with lukewarm water.
6. Complete your facial by applying Moringa moisturizing lotion.
First off this range smells absolutely amazing, Moringa skincare range is available in many brands and you have must have seen/heard of it before. Even The Body Shop has a Moringa Range.
This pack contains 7 sachets of Cleanser, Scrub, Massage Cream, Oil, Gel, Mask and Moisturizing Lotion. Though it’s a one time use kit, the quantity is enough for two people to use together but you have to use it at the same time since once opened, it is difficult to store sachets.
You can do it with your BFF or your mom or sibling, you can do the facial on each other. Make sure you have no rings, watches, etc., and your hands are bare.
The cleanser is milky white and takes off your basic makeup and cleanses your pores. The scrub is super creamy and glides on the skin really well, the exfoliating beads are not that gritty and feel very comfortable. This scrub would work even for sensitive skin.
I took a steam for about 3-4 minutes and then went ahead with the massage.
You have to mix the massage cream and moringa oil together and then massage it all over your face for about 10-15 minutes. Now this is the main part in any facial. Concentrating on pressure points and going with outward strokes to drain lymphatic fluids from your face and skin. If you are someone who has a bloated face, under eye bags, etc., you have a lot of lymphatic fluids which are not drained properly and a good massage definitely helps in draining those out. Plus boosts your circulation and gives your skin a nice flush and glow.
This is followed by the moringa gel which is again massaged for about 5 minutes. It’s a semi-transparent gel and again glides on the skin really well for a good massage.
Then comes the face mask. It’s in powder form, so needs to be mixed with water and applied evenly all over the face. I kept it for about 10-15 minutes and washed it off.
At last, the moisturizing lotion to complete the facial.
I absolutely loved the results! My skin was so soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. The redness I had before the facial, was all gone in 2-3 hours and it was soothed. Facial results are best seen the next day and my skin is glowing today! If you follow me on Snapchat (bhumika_t), you must have already seen my #NoFilter #NoMakeup bare face selfies and how I am loving my skin!
It also did help in getting rid of a little tan. Overall skin is more brighter and glowing. I definitely suggest checking R.K’s Aroma products and especially this new launch, the Moringa Facial Kit. Many of their products are available on Amazon and I have linked them above.
Pic the next morning..
Usually the skin is a little red on the same day of the facial, but the actual results are seen the next day. I am so loving my skin right now!
Few pointers before any facial:
If you have undergone bleach or any face treatment, do not try this for at least 4-5 days
Use a sunscreen if you are stepping out after this facial, as your skin might be a little photo sensitive
Do not use a face wash for one day, you can wash your face with normal water. You can use a face wash the next day
Since all essential oils do not suit everyone, it’s better if you do a patch test on your chin or jaw line first.
All R.K’s Aroma products are pH tested and suitable for sensitive skin. I am a big fan of aromatherapy oils and products and having talked to the owner, I am so curious to try more of their products. They have about 30000 products and the owner Mr. Prakash Shivdasani himself is a chemist and makes these formulations.
Also I am giving away two of these kits to two winners on my YouTube channel, so join HERE.
Have you tried any R.K’s Aroma products/facial kits?
INTRODUCTION – Hello everyone. This is probably one of the bestselling product from the brand and used by every skin. One of the disadvantages of having an oily skin is that you have to prevent making it oily while moisturizing it. This is because the oiliness often leads to severe breakouts. My skin is both oily and acne prone. Having used this Aloe Vera Gel for a year now, I can surely say it has worked for me here is my detailed review on the product.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Aloe Vera Gel for natural beauty, safety and useful for removal of pigmented spots.
Ingredients– Aloe Vera 90% W/V, Base Material – Q.S., Permitted Colours – Tartazine Yellow and Brilliant blue, Vitamin E, Fragrance and Preservatives Q.S.
PRICE – 75 INR for 150ml
MY REVIEW
The Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel comes in a transparent plushy tube with an orange flip open cap. The transparent tube enables you to see through how much product is left on the tube. It is also available in a smaller pack but the bigger tube is better if you ask me. The packaging is simple and nice and I have travelled with this tube for a number of occasions and it has never disappointed me at all. The aloe vera gel has the consistency of a clear gel with a greenish tinge in it, thanks to the use of colors (see the ingredients). I feel the addition of colors were absolutely unnecessary because we all are aware of the fact that raw aloe vera gel is itself clear and thus green color was of no use. The product has a faint aloe vera smell with a refreshing aroma but it is not going to irritate the nasal senses at all. Even on the skin, it stays for an hour or half and then fades off.
You require a very less amount of product and only a pea size amount will surely suffice for face and neck. The product has a slimy texture in a gel form and spreads well on the surface of the face. Initially, for about 2-3mins you will feel as if it is slimy and sticky on the skin but after that time, it gets completely absorbed into the skin, with a satin matte finish and yet hydrating at the same time. It gives a soothing and cool sensation to the skin right after you apply. Thus, it is a great product when the skin is literally scorched after being in long hours under direct sun.
Around the staring of 2015, I faced severe acne problem and had to visit a dermatologist. I was strictly directed not to use any kind of product except for the medicines he gave me. Now, funny part is after having those medicines they dried my skin like parched land and my skin felt stretchy and dull all the time. I was little afraid of using any moisturizer but on a suggestion from a friend, I started using the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel. To my surprise, it never broke my skin out even after a year and half. It hydrates my oily skin, prevents the acne and works very well before applying makeup as well. However, it doesn’t cures acne or any kind of skin pigmentation. I do suffer from slight pigmentation around the mouth but it is still persistent and the aloe vera gel didn’t do anything about it. For winters, I add 2-3drops of vitamin E oil or any facial oil with it and massage onto the skin.
You can also use this gel for massaging the skin. Since it remains slimy for some time, massaging the skin increases the blood circulation and gives a natural radiance to the skin. I have also used the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel for under eyes as I have dry eye area. It nicely hydrates the area but only for around 2-3hours and then you have to really it again. For oily eyelids, it is a great option. You can use the Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel for body lotion when you don’t want anything too hydrating. Just make sure not to step out of the house without sunscreen for face and body.
WHAT I LIKED
1. Nice and hygienic packaging.
2. Gel form and gets readily absorbed.
3. Works for every skin type.
4. Prevents acne.
5. Cools down the sunburnt skin.
6. Hydrates the skin without making it oily.
7. Reasonable price tag.
8. No availability issues.
WHAT I DISLIKED
1. Does no enhancement to the texture of the skin.
2. No effect on pigmentation.
3. Added colors.
RATING – 4/5
Quality: 3.5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Availability: 5/5
OVERALL – All in all, Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel gave me a good experience for an inexpensive face moisturizer, body lotion and massage gel and I am really happy with the way it has worked for my skin. It is also available very easily now.
INTRODUCTION – Just when I started working out, I thought of using the Johara Body Firming Anti Cellulite Cream simultaneously because I already have way too many stretch marks around my hips and thighs. I knew that these stretch marks are simply going to aggravate once I start off with full-fledged workout session. Having used the cream for about two months now, here’s my review on the product.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Johara Body Firming AntiCellulite Cream is a fresh, light weight, fast absorbing cream that visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite (Orange peel skin) within 4 weeks of regular use. Rich in regenerating & firming plant extracts like Fors LeanCG, Boswellin Super, Cosmoperine, Caffeine & Amaranthus that helps to restore body’s youthful tone & improve firmness & elasticity of the skin. Other ingredients such as Jojoba seed oil, Horse chestnut seed extract (Venocin) & Olive fruit oil revitalizes the skin texture and leaves skin feeling soft and satin smooth.
The Johara Body Firming Anti Cellulite Cream comes in a rather large plushy tube which is creamy in color, along with a flip open black cap which is pretty sturdy. The opening of the flip open cap dispenses the right amount of product, avoiding any mess or excess. Though the tube looks slightly big, it is a perfect pick for travelling. It is light weight, sturdy and doesn’t mess up at all. Overall, I really like the packaging.
Coming to the texture and consistency, it is has a creamy consistency which leans on the thicker side. The smell is artificial and creamy but nothing that would hurt the nasal senses. Once you blend the product onto the skin, it simply refreshes with aroma and then fades off.
The cream takes some time to blend but it does merge with the skin with some nice massage. Initially, I simply used to apply and blend and the cream used to look oily on the skin. However, with the passage of time, I thought of massage a good amount and saw that it works better that way. Massaging the cream has its own benefits. Massaging helps in blood circulation in that part of the body and also reduces the stretch marks. Once blended onto the skin, the area feels slightly warmed up which is very noticeable in summer.
Coming to its effect of reducing stretch marks, I didn’t notice anything till a month. I have been quite consistent with the workout but even after losing some kilos I didn’t notice the increasing appearances of the stretch marks. It was simply after 40-45 days when I noticed that the stretch marks around my thighs slowly started vanishing. The skin also looked much toned and even.
However, the perfect toned and firm was still to come. The cream also works slightly on double chin as I notice the pictures looked pretty good as far as the chiseled look is concerned. There was no side effect of the cream on the skin throughout the time I used it.
The ingredient list of the Johara Body Firming Anti Cellulite Cream is pretty impressive. It is enriched with Fors LeanCG, Boswellin Super, Cosmoperine, Caffeine & Amaranthus that are naturally endowed to improve the texture of the cream and provides firmness and elasticity. Abundant quantity of Jojoba, Olive, glycerin and other fruit oils are added which adds a nice layer of hydration to the skin that also contributes to the enhancement. In fact, the product is paraben, sulphate, formaldehyde, synthetic dye free and also halal certified and dermatologist certified – which makes it a perfect pick for sensitive skin as well.
OVERALL – Johara Body Firming Anti Cellulite Cream is an excellent choice if you want to reduce the stretch marks and add a nice layer of hydration to the skin.
WHAT I LIKED
Nice packaging.
Creamy texture.
Blends well.
Reduces stretch marks.
Hydrates the skin.
Impressive list of ingredients.
Paraben, Sulphate, Formaldehyde and Synthetic dye Free
Halal Certified and Dermatologist Certified
WHAT I DISLIKED
Takes time to show results.
Pricey
Doesn’t firm the skin completely until you rigorously workout
RATING –4/5
Quality: 4/5
Value for money: 3/5
Availability: 3.5/5
Editor’s Note: This sounds quite good, but agree anti-cellulite products do need a lot of time in general to show results.
We have all been new to the makeup world some time or another and learnt everything by trial and error. One thing which comes in the mind of a person new to makeup is; affordable makeup products since they haven’t mastered any techniques and hence need affordable options to experiment and learn with.
And for anyone trying their hands on eye shadows, is to get a good eye shadow primer, that should be the prime objective. An eye shadow primer acts as a base for your eye shadow, makes the pigmentation of the eye shadow more visible and helps in the staying power of the eye shadow on your lids.
However, there aren’t many affordable options available in the Indian market. When I started using eye shadows, there were barely any primers available, even the costly ones.
So, I DIY-d my very own eye shadow primer and used it for ages till I got an actual eye shadow primer from the market. Hopefully, this will help anyone new to makeup or someone who wants to save some bucks on an eye shadow primer.
It consists of basic things which we all have lying around anyways. It works the same as any eye shadow primer in the market would.
What you’ll need:
Foundation
Concealer
Body Butter or Thick Moisturizer
Empty and Clean Tub
Toothpick
Starting with, you’d want to sanitize the tub you want to keep your primer in. I have used this old lip balm tub and sanitized it. You can even buy empty tubs similar to these online.
Step1
Initially, you want to pour some foundation in the tub, the foundation is the base of the product so you should use the most of it depending on how much eye primer you want to make. I am using this Foundation by the body shop in my eye shadow primer.
Step2
Next, put in a little concealer, use it lesser than the foundation, half than how much foundation you used to be precise. It will help in adding that little brightness in your eye shadow primer. I am using this Deliplus concealer I had got from Spain.
Step3
Finally, put a bit of body butter or thick body lotion, you shouldn’t use a light/thin consistency moisturizer since it would make the consistency of your eye primer runny.
The ratio of the moisturizer/body butter should be same or teeny less than the concealer. What the moisturizer does, is to retain the moisture on your lids underneath all that eye shadow. I am using this parachute body lotion.
The ratio you want to work in is 2:1:1 that is 2 parts foundation, 1 part concealer and 1 part moisturizer.
Step4
Mix it well with the help of a toothpick and store it away well. Always use a brush to apply the product to avoid spreading any germs and always pat some powder on top of the eye shadow primer to help it not to crease.
I wouldn’t really recommend making huge batches of the eye shadow primer. Make a batch that’ll not last you more than 1-2 months. You require a really small amount for each use.
Done
I have used this eye shadow primer for more than 8 hours and it lasted me without creasing or fading my eye makeup.
Editor’s Note: That sounds like a good eye primer. I would also recommend adding a little glycerine in place or addition to the body butter, just a tiny amount.
Top 10 Types of Essential Oils, Their Uses and Benefits, How to Use, Buy Online
By Simran
An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants.
An oil is ‘essential’ in the sense that it contains the ‘essence of’ the plant’s fragrance—the characteristic fragrance of the plant from which it is derived.
Interest in essential oils has revived in recent decades with the popularity of aromatherapy, a branch of alternative medicine that claims that essential oils and other aromatic compounds have curative effects.
In addition to these impressive qualities, they often also transfer very pleasurable sensory experiences within minutes because of their fragrances and restorative natures, making them impactful on our brain chemistry, emotional well-being, and spiritual wellness. This makes for a highly vast and diverse list of uses for essential oils.
Rosewood is a decorative tree and used to make furniture, chopsticks, and show pieces; it is a versatile and durable tree that grows abundantly in Brazil. It is commonly called sheesham in India. But rosewood is more than just a raw material used in manufacturing.
Benefits/uses of rosewood essential oil:
Rosewood oil has tissue-regenerating properties that help prevent wrinkles and premature aging.
You can use it to reduce the onset of pimples and blackheads while controlling the amount of sebum secreted by your oil glands
It even has wound-healing actions, making it an ideal first-aid remedy for cuts and insect bites.
Aroma therapists use it to help treat depression, as it is said to impart feelings of happiness and strength.
How to Use: You can dilute the oil by using a carrier oil like coconut/olive oil and apply it on your face or use it as a massaging oil. Add a few drops to your bath to relax your body. You can even mix it in your unscented shower gel to achieve a sweet smelling shower gel which relaxes you.
Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of the tea tree plant, a member of the myrtle tree family, which is native to Australia.
Benefits/Uses of Tea Tree essential oil:
Tea tree oil can be used to cure acne, fungal and bacterial infections.
It can even effectively be used to get rid of dandruff.
Tea tree essential oil can provide relief from muscular pain, aches, and sprains because its strong chemical properties can work as an anti-inflammatory and also encourages blood flow.
How to Use: Mix the oil in your moisturiser or Mix a drop or 2 with a smidge of coconut oil and use a cotton swab to apply on your face to effectively fight acne. Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water and dip your toothbrush in it once a week to get rid of bacteria on your toothbrush. Use the oil as your deodorant since it fights bacteria and helps you smell fresh.
Orange essential oil is obtained from the peels of orange by cold compression. Although most of you know the common name of oranges, perhaps you don’t know the botanical name, Citrus Sinensis.
Benefits/Uses of orange essential oil:
Orange essential oil is known to relax muscular and nervous spasms.
Curing acne and constipation.
Improves complexion.
Inhibits growth of microbes in wounds and helps reduce inflammation.
How to Use: Use it with your moisturiser, since Vit. C helps in repairing skin and fighting wrinkles. Add a few drops of oil in water and use it as a kitchen cleanser. Diffuse Orange with Lime, Lemon, or Tangerine for a sunny warm-weather scent, or diffuse it with Cinnamon and a hint of Clove for a festive smell perfect for the holidays.
Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the lavender plant. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourri for centuries. Traditionally, lavender essential oil has also been used in making perfumes.
Benefits/Uses of Lavender essential oil:
Lavender essential oil is known to Reduces anxiety and emotional stress
Heal burns and wounds.
It helps in Improving sleep
Restores skin complexion and reduces acne.
It Slows aging with powerful antioxidants.
How to Use: Put a drop or two in your bath water to instantly relax your body after a long day. If you have trouble sleeping, put 2-3 drops on your pillow case to help you fall asleep faster. Mix several drops of Lavender oil with a nut or vegetable mixing oil (coconut, sesame, etc) and use topically on acne.
Cedarwood essential oil is extracted from wood pieces of the cedar wood tree. Cedarwood contributes a great deal to its health benefits.
Benefits/uses of Cedarwood essential oil:
Cedarwood oil promotes hair growth
has anti-inflammatory agents
cures toothaches
strengthens gums
It clears out toxins and helps cure acne and fungal infections.
Reduces skin irritations
regulates menstruation
stimulates metabolism
tightens muscles
How to Use: Just add a few drops of Cedarwood oil to your shampoo or massage it directly into the scalp to promote hair growth. Simply add a few drops of cedarwood oil to your skin cream and rub it into the affected acne areas or you can add 4 or 5 drops to your bathwater to help soothe the skin. You could also add cedarwood oil to coconut oil and some oatmeal to make your own facial scrub. If you are feeling in any way tense, stressed or depressed try inhaling cedarwood essential oil from the bottle or put a few drops on a handkerchief and breathe it in whenever you feel the need.
Chamomile oil is extracted from the flowers of the Chamomile plant, which is very popular as a flowering plant. There are two types of Chamomile; The Roman Chamomile and the German Chamomile.
Benefits/uses of Chamomile essential oil:
Chamomile oil is best known throughout the ages for its sedative and soothing qualities.
Endowed with an overall calming effect for the stressed mind and tense body
Chamomile essential oil can also be used to ease feelings of grief, anger, discontent or over-sensitivity.
It helps in fading scars and spots on your skin and treats sunburn.
How to Use: Rub a few drops of Chamomile essential oil on your pulse points like behind the ear or neck; it will help you fall asleep better. Add 1–2 drops to your favourite moisturizer, shampoo, or conditioner to promote youthful looking skin and hair. Add 1–2 drops to herbal teas or hot drinks to soothe the body and mind.
Cinnamon originated in tropical Asia, and was particularly widely used in Sri Lanka and India. Now, the shrub is grown in almost every tropical region of the world. The spice, owing to its vast medicinal uses, has found a prominent position in traditional medicines, especially in Ayurveda, which is the traditional Indian medicinal system.
Benefits/uses of Cinnamon essential oil:
It increases circulation and fights viruses.
The oil possesses anti inflammation properties and hence cures acne effectively.
Helps alleviate sore muscles and joints
How to Use: Place 1 drop Cinnamon essential oil in hot water or tea and drink slowly to soothe your throat. Dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut or mineral oil and apply on your face for glowing skin and decreasing acne. Place one drop on your toothbrush then add toothpaste for healthier gums.
Sweet Basil/Tulsi Essential Oil
8. Sweet Basil essential oil:
Sweet basil oil comes from basil, a plant with a thick foliage and small white flowers. Fresh basil leaves taste sweet and pungent, and exudes a fresh and floral aroma, while the dried ones have a spicy and earthy scent. Basil was widely used in ancient times and still used in India for various medicinal purposes.
Benefits/uses of Sweet Basil essential oil:
Sweet Basil essential oil Soothes sore muscles and joints.
It enhances the lustre of dull-looking skin and hair.
It helps cure acne and improves circulation.
Apply to minor skin irritations
For sensitive skin, dilute with fractionated coconut oil.
It is anti bacterial
How to Use: Mix it in your shampoo or moisturiser for lush hair and glowing skin. Use basil essential oils topically on the feet or by diffusing them aromatically to fight fatigue.
While the aroma of peppermint essential oil may be synonymous in some minds with the candy, it’s a lot more than flavouring. The essential oil of peppermint has been used for centuries for digestive problems, sinus and respiration and more. The aroma of the oil can be very sweet, and obviously minty, in nature.
Benefits/uses of Peppermint essential oil:
It nourishes skin and improves texture of oily skin
Promotes hair growth
Improves mental focus and relieves headaches.
How to Use: Add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to your regular morning shampoo and conditioner to stimulate the scalp and energize your mind. Use a drop or two on your temples to help enhance mental clarity. Inhaling peppermint essential oil can stave off the munchies and can help you feel full faster.
Lemongrass is an herb that belongs to the grass family of Poaceae. Lemongrass oil has a light and fresh lemony smell with earthy undertones. It is stimulating, relaxing, soothing, and balancing.
Benefits/uses of Lemon grass essential oil:
It relieves head and stomach aches
Helps reduce acne and oiliness of the skin
Helps in reducing fatigue or insomnia, even menstrual cramps.
How to Use: Diffuse or apply Lemongrass essential oil to bottoms of feet at bedtime for a restful night’s sleep. Drink two cups of lemongrass tea a day to relieve pain associated with your period. To help clear up acne, add one drop to a carrier oil and dab on to affected areas once or twice a day.
These essential oils are also available in a set of 6 (HERE) and set of 12 (HERE), different combinations.
Indian weddings are generally the typical ‘big fat’ ones and this is the D-Day of the bride. Everything, from makeup to costume and hair has to be on point so that the bride looks nothing less than an angel walking down the aisle. To achieve the desired heavenly look, make sure to choose your hairstyle wisely while decking up. Times have changed since the typical bun and braid hairstyles for wedding and now-a- days, the brides can look equally traditional and beautiful with short hair or long one. Of course there are various hairstyles to choose from but it also confuses us a lot. Therefore, we have narrowed down the top 10 bridal hairstyles from short, medium and long hair to enhance the facial features and make her the center of all attention.
Here goes the list.
For Short Hair
1. Reverse tiara hairstyle – This is a gorgeous hairstyle for short length hair. To achieve this look, first blow dry the hair with big loose curls in the front. Then, middle part the hair and attached the pearly tiara at the back and tugging the front hair. For the back portion, make some tight curls and use a hair spray to keep them in place. And hair reverse tiara hairstyle is done.
2. Side braid hairstyle – Blow dry the hair and do a side Dutch braid along the side till the back. Secure the end with a bobby pin. Now, for the rest of the hair, simply curl and tug them with bobby pins to give an illusion of volume. Make sure all the tugging is on one side to give an impression of side bun. Lastly, put 3-4 floral pins to decorate the look and use a hairspray to make sure the hair is kept safely.
3. Low bun with accessories – Well, you can create low bun with short hair as well! Simply straighten the hair (simple straight and not poker one) and middle part the hair. Give a sleek look and bring all the hair in the back, forming a low pony. Now, divide the pony into several parts. Take a single potion, roll it and tug with a bobby pin. Similarly, follow this up for other parts as well. Now, add the shown accessories from the front to the back side, forming a half crescent on both the sides. Use a hairspray to finish the hairstyle and a pretty bridal hairstyle is done.
For Medium Length Hair
1. Matha patti hairstyle – Matha patti is a very popular hair accessory for bride and has been used in various bridal occasions. Well, you can incorporate a traditional Matha patti and create a gorgeous hairstyle for yourself. This is best for medium hair length. Blow dry the hair well to create a natural volume. Now, middle part the hair slightly and tease the crown area and create a puff there. Secure it nicely with bobby pins. Now, for the rest of the hair, simply curl them and let it be loose. Wear the Matha patti and secure this with bobby pins at the back. Finish off the look with a hairspray to keep the hair in place.
2. Layered bun hairstyle – This one of the most elegant hairstyles for brides in the year 2016. To start off, blow dry the hair and create loose big curls. You can middle part or side part the hair and form a voluminous puff by teasing the crown area and secure it well with bobby pins. Now, take a portion of hair from both the sides, roll them and secure with bobby pins. Keep doing it till you reach the lower end and the hair would form something like a waterfall layered bun as shown in picture.
3. Braid and bun hairstyle – Combine the quintessential braid and bun and create a gorgeous voluminous bridal hairstyle. Blow dry the hair well and form a puff on the crown area. Create a fluffy French braid from the crown to the nape area and secure the end with a black rubber band. Take the rest of the hair and create a voluminous bun and secure it well. Apply hairspray to keep the hair at place and attach a floral pin or any other hair accessory of your choice.
For Long Hair
1. Twist up bun – This is a very detailed and beautiful bridal hairstyle for long hair. Middle part the hair and create two waterfall braid from the front and bringing them together at them back, encircling the crown area. Once done, secure the ends well and seal with a bobby pin. Now for the rest of the hair, comb well and detangle it properly. Take small sections and twist the whole length wrapping around your fingers and make a small bun out of it. Fix the bun properly with a bobby pin. Now, do this for the rest of the hair and eventually it will form a beautiful twist bun. You can decorate it with hair accessories or flowers.
2. Side swept curls – There is nothing more beautiful and heavenly that loose side swept curls for the bridal hairstyle. Deep condition and blow dry the hair well with voluminous spray. Now either middle part or side part the hair according to your preference. Next, bring the side layers (one at a time) towards the back, forming some volume in the front. For the rest of the hair, use a big curling wand to create big loose curls and side swept the hair. When the hair will cascade down, it will look stunning for the bride.
3. Loose braid for the Christian bride – Sometimes it is tough to create a hairstyle on thin hair as it may look a bit weighed down. But this loose braid hairstyle is the perfect pick for the Christian bride walking down the aisle. Firstly, side part the hair and swept it together on one side. Now, take a section of hair and make a fishtail braid. Once down, pull the sides of the braid to create volume. Repeat this procedure for one or more times. Once satisfied, take the front layer and tug it towards the back of the head and put a floral accessory to add some prettiness to it.
4. Traditional decorated braid – This is a very simple traditional long braid hairstyle for the bride. Simply middle part or side part the hair and create a neat braid. You can also opt for French or fishtail braid and decorate it with flowers or hair accessories.
