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Fun in the Sun- Enjoy the Summers

Fun in the Sun- Enjoy the Summers


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



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

Fun in the Sun- Enjoy the Summers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All images from Google and Tumblr.

How To Get Rid of a Tan ?

How To Get Rid of a Tan ?
It is common for the hands and the legs to become darker than most of the body parts, this is because they are overexposed to sun rays in daily life. It may be unappealing if only the hands and legs are tanned, leaving rest of the body in lighter shade. The best way is to avoid getting tanned in the first place, by taking preventive measures…like wearing covered clothes and proper sunscreen, etc..UV radiation from sun rays and tanning beds increase the production of melanin (a skin pigment). As a result the skin gets tanned. Even though there is no safe method to lighten the skin cells that are tanned, you can surely boost the renewal process of skin cells that are beneath the layer of tanned skin cells.
Source

There are after sun products too..which can be used immediately after coming from outside..they have anti tan skin soothing ingredients..that might control the tan to a certain extent..

But do not worry; even if it is too late, here are some of the remedies that can give an even complexion with a glowing skin.

Make a paste of one almond, 5 drops of lemon and a teaspoon of milk. Apply on face and leave it on overnight and wash with warm water the next morning. This helps even out complexion and will give you a healthy summer glow! You could also try coconut milk. Leave this too on all night. If you breakout often, then rub on tomato juice all over your face and leave for ten minutes. Do this a few times during the week to get rid of tan.

Potato: one of the natural remedy to remove tan from the hands and legs is use of peeled potato skin. Simply rub the peeled skin of potato on the tanned area of hands and legs as a daily routine. You can also apply raw potato juice instead of peeled skin.

A paste made from turmeric powder, curd and gram flour is effective in changing the darker complexion after tanning. Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with two teaspoon of curd and two teaspoon of gram flour. Add one to two teaspoon of water and prepare a paste. Now apply it on your hands and legs half hour before you take bath. Do it regularly and you can see the difference within a week.

Lime juice is a natural beach. Prepare a mixture of lime juice and honey with a pinch of turmeric powder perfectly dissolved in it. Apply it on the darkened hands and legs.

Raw milk: apply milk on the tanned area of your hand regularly. You should apply it half hour before bathing. Slowly but surely, after few days the tanned skin surface of hands will fade out.

Aloe vera gel: Apply aloe vera gel on your hands at least two to three times in a day.

A popular natural remedy for removing tanning is the use of sunflower oil, lemon juice and sugar. Mix all the products equally to make a smooth paste. Apply the paste on your hands and let it remain for 30 minutes before you rinse it off with cold water.

Make fine powder of dried orange peels. Now mix it in a cup of yogurt. Apply the prepared mixture on the hands and rub it gently with your hands. Let it remain for 10 to 20 minutes, after which you wash your hands with normal tap water. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.

Mix salt (or sugar) and essential oil in a small bowl. Now add a teaspoon of honey and blend till you get a smooth texture. Finally add lemon juice and blend with spoon. Use this scrub with special concentration on the darkest areas of the face. Gently scrub in circular motion to exfoliate the top layer of the skin. Do this twice a week to remove tan from the face.

Mix gram flour with water and rub it all over your skin. When you wash it off, tan gets lightened.

Another way to remove sun tan from face is to apply curd as a face pack.

Lemon Glycerine Pack: Mix glycerine and lemon juice in equal ratio. Apply the mixture on the affected area and wash when it dries. This mixture can also be used as night cream to remove tan and get supple skin

Sandal Wood Turmeric Pack: Sandalwood and turmeric are essential part of many beauty enhancement treatments which includes the treatment for removing sun tan. Mix sandal wood and pure turmeric powder in a ration of 1:1. Add rose water to form a paste. Leave for half an hour or till it is dry and the wash using cold water.

Prepare a mixture of oats and buttermilk. This mixture should be rubbed onto the tanned area as the oats will help in exfoliating the skin and on the other hand the butter milk is known to be extremely soothing for the skin.

A regular use of fresh coconut water on the hands and face is known to be very effective in getting rid of a tan as well as making the skin supple and soft.

A cream with equal parts of milk powder, lemon juice, honey and almond oil can be applied and left on for 20 minutes. This will help lighten your tan. You can store this for about a week and use it thrice daily for best results.

Mash the papaya pulp and massage the sun tanned area. Papaya is excellent for the skin and also helps in anti-aging.

Combining ash gourd juice (Petha or Safed Kaddu as it is called) with multan mitti and applying it all over the face helps reduce the tan considerably.

Nature’s Essence Lacto Tan Clear Soap and Mask are also very helpful to get rid of tan.

So here I gave you so many at home remedies to get rid of your tan…enjoy the summers but use a sunscreen..and if you get tanned then use these remedies 😉

Source: 1, 2

Do share your remedies or products if any, to get rid of tan..

44 Timeless Beauty Tips

44 Timeless Beauty Tips
This is a must read,44 beauty tips all together at one place. Even though you may be knowing some of them, does not hurt to know a few extra ;)Look your radiant best with these head-to-toe tips collected from our past 75 years of beauty issues.

Gorgeous Hair

1 | Camouflage roots by zigzagging your part rather than making it straight.

2 | Brush hair from roots to ends nightly. This distributes natural oils throughout the shaft and gives hair a healthy sheen.

3 | Be direct when telling your hairstylist what you want, and bring photos from magazines of styles you like.

4 | Doing your hair color yourself? Don’t make too drastic a change. Stay within one or two shades of your natural color.

5 | Comb wet hair like the pros: Hold a handful at a time and work from center to ends, then scalp to center.

Beautiful Brows

6 | Soften skin before tweezing by dabbing with a cotton ball soaked in warm water or cream.

7 | Tweeze in the direction the hair grows.

8 | Don’t change the place where your brows peak and never pencil the whole brow. Instead, only fill in holes.

9 | Use only the side of a sharpened brow pencil—not the pointed tip—so as not to draw a hard line.

10 | For unruly brows, apply hairspray to an old toothbrush, then brush brows upward and outward.

Bright Eyes

11 | Treat your eye area gently. This is the most delicate part of your face. Cleanse with care; blot, never rub.

12 | Reduce puffy eyes by splashing with cold water or applying a cold compress (ice cubes in a washcloth): 15 seconds on, 15 seconds off.

13 | When you put on mascara, don’t lower your chin—that’s how mascara gets on your lid.

14 | Get eyeshadow to stay in place by priming lids with moisturizer and foundation.

15 | Always use your ring finger to apply moisturizer or concealer to the eye area. It puts the least amount of pressure on the skin.

Pretty Face

16 | Don’t touch your face unnecessarily. Breakouts can be caused by your own fingers.

17 | Apply cream or cleanser by lightly pressing upward—never down. The delicate skin sags easily enough in time.

18 | For the best color match, test foundation and powder either on your face or neck (the inside of your wrist is too pale)

19 | Use foundation, not concealer (which is lighter than your skin color), to cover up redness or blemishes

20 | Rouge should be well-blended far out on the cheekbone; circles of rouge don’t look good on anyone.

Lovely Lips

21 | Get lips soft and smooth by using a damp, warm washcloth at night to rub off the flaky dry bits; follow with a coat of lip balm

22 | Ease the evening switch to a redder or darker lipstick by applying it over and blending it into your daytime color

23 | To make lipstick last longer, allow it to set for a few minutes after applying, blot lips with tissue and dust them with powder, then apply another coat

24 | Cheeks feeling flushed? Put on a bold color lipstick; a neutral shade will only make red cheeks stand out

25 | For lipliner that glides on, warm it up first by pinching it with your fingertips

Glowing Skin

26 | The best time to apply lotion is right after a shower or bath, when skin is still damp.

27 | When drawing a bath, scatter bubbles or crystals directly under the faucet before turning on the water, but drop in perfume oil while the tub is filling

28 | Beautiful skin starts from within. Include lots of vegetables, fruit and water in your diet

29 | Overdo it with your perfume? Dab rubbing alcohol with a cotton ball on your skin. The alcohol will cut the scent without altering it.

30 | Microwave lotion for 5 seconds to soothe dry winter skin.

Smooth Legs

31 | Improve circulation in your legs and lower the risk of unsightly veins by elevating your feet when resting

32 | Wait until after your shower to shave. The steam softens hairs for smoother results.

33 | Don’t use creams that contain heavy fragrance or alpha hydroxy acids on freshly shaven legs. They’ll sting and cause a rash.

34 | When applying “liquid stockings” [or today’s self-tanner], don’t forget the back of your knees, which are often missed.

35 | Waxing your legs? Pull skin taut before applying the wax to make it easier to remove the strip in one clean motion. Remove leftover wax with a cotton ball dipped in baby oil.

Model-Like Hands

36 | Shape nails with an emery board, filing sides toward center—never straight across—and rounding off edges

37 | What works for your face works for your hands. Remove age spots with facial brightening cream

38 | The fast way to remove nail polish: Hold cotton saturated with polish remover firmly on your nail for a few seconds to let it start working, then wipe nail clean.

39 | Apply polish starting at the pinky, working toward the thumb to avoid dragging your hand across wet nails.

Happy Feet 

40 | To counteract dryness, massage feet with a lanolin-based lotion, kneading it deeply into your instep, then massage soles, heels, top surface and around nails.

41 | Before using a pumice stone or foot file to remove a callus, be sure to soak your foot in warm water for at least 5 minutes. Follow with a little foot cream.

42 | To prevent ingrown nails, trim toenails straight across, not down into the corners.

43 | Relieve swollen feet by soaking them alternately in hot water (for 3 minutes), then cold water (for 1 minute), for a total of 15 minutes.

44 | Use fresh pineapple or kiwi skins, which contain bromelain (a meat tenderizer), to exfoliate heels. Rub the fleshy part over heels for 5 minutes, then rinse, dry and moisturize.

Photo credit: iStock, Thinkstock, Fotolia.com, Source: 1

Loved the tips,using ring finger for eye creams and products and moisturiser on damp skin is truly beneficial. And warming eyeliners and lipliners between fingers certainly helps in gliding smoothly.I am surely trying 43 the next time 😉

Which is your favorite tip ?

7 Effortless Supermodel Beauty Secrets

7 Effortless Supermodel Beauty Secrets

Ever wonder how those highly-paid, super popular fashion models keep their looks in check, while being so busy and active? Well, supermodels learn a few things along their journey in the modeling industry, here are a few of their best kept beauty secrets.

How to Look Great In Photos

When taking photos it’s all about the lighting, always try to face the light source and try to steer clear of overhead light that will make you appear to have dark circles and may cast shadows on your face. Moisturize your lips with a balm or gloss before taking photos as well, as lips that appear dry will make you look older. It’s all about the light. Always face it, because that’s how you give your face good angles. If you’re outside when the sun is overhead, you’re going to have dark circles from the sun creating shadows on your face. So no outdoor pictures between 12 and two!

What to Do About a Zit

Many supermodels swear by using Tea Tree Oil on pop up zits to help battle the swelling and eliminate the bacteria. Tea Tree Oil is a great natural approach to fight those unwanted breakouts.

How to Make Your Eyes Appear Larger

Tyra Banks is the most known for this great supermodel secret as she shared it with the world on her television show. She suggests wearing white eyeliner on your bottom water line will make your eyes appear larger and make you appear more awake. This is a great tip for those days when you feel drained but still want to look great.

How to Get an Even Complexion

Many supermodels swear by using lemon juice to even their complexion. Lemon juice is a natural cleanser and disinfectant. Lemon is also known as a natural lightener, and will lighten any dark spots on your face to create a more even skin tone. To do this simply squeeze the juice from a lemon, apply the juice to the face with a cotton ball, wait about 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

How to Get Strong Shiny Hair

Using coconut oil as a hair treatment is very popular in the modeling industry. Coconut oil supplies the scalp and hair with moisture as well as vitamins and protein to make it stronger. To use coconut oil as a hair treatment, simply apply the oil to the hair from the roots to the ends. Massage the scalp for about a minute, and leave the oil in the hair for one hour. After one hour massage the scalp again, then shampoo well, condition the hair, and style as usual.

Keep Makeup Brushes Clean

One of the most common beauty mistakes is not cleaning your makeup brushes. When your makeup brushes are not cleaned regularly they build up bacteria, and this can mean trouble for your face. One tip on this comes from Linda Vojtova, “I wash all my makeup brushes with baby shampoo. It keeps them clean, and the brushes last longer”.

The Importance of Moisture

Moisture is important in every part of the body. Make sure you are staying well hydrated as this will help keep your skin soft and dewy. If you are lacking moisture and want some fast results try using Vitamin E oil. Just take a capsule of Vitamin E pierce the side, squeeze out the oil, and apply to the face, this can be used on the lips as well. You will see results almost instantly. Vitamin E oil is great for the skin, and will make your skin glow. Many supermodels also believe in hydrating the skin from the inside out and recommend drinking coconut water, coconut water is high in potassium and contains antioxidants and is naturally rich in electrolytes.

Some other secrets:

  • Cool slices of cucumber laid upon closed eyes for 10 minutes prior to foundation applications also works wonders.
  • Super model beauty tips advise on the use of Epsom salts to soften the skin and also as an exfoliating agent. Fine Epsom Salt mixed with your cleanser will wipe away all traces of make-up and when added to your conditioner and warmed, gives that extra bounce and volume to limp hair.
  • Always powder your T-zone and the lines going from your nose down around your mouth so you don’t look like a bulldog. When those areas are shiny, it’s awful.
  • If you’re wearing smoky eye makeup, a little beige or gold pencil on the inner eye corners will open up the area, but you only want to do it if the shadow is really dark. Otherwise, light pencil makes your eyes look too far apart, like a fish.
  • Using Nivea cream to remove eye makeup.
  • For an at home Alpha Glycolic Peel, blend the seeds of a Papaya with an all natural sugar free Greek Yogurt and smooth over your face and neck as a mask for 10 minutes.
  • Drink warm water and lemon every morning.
  • Dry body brush everyday before taking a shower to keep your skin smooth all over, and to activate your lymph system.
  • Discover what supplements are right for your body and then take them as directed. Almost everyone needs a supplement to balance his or her busy lifestyle.
  • Every woman should have Organic rosehip oil in her handbag. It’s a product that’s rejuvenating and packed full of natural goodness. Rosehip oil is also a natural way to remove eye makeup.
  • Ever wonder how Kim gets that gorgeous contour on her cheekbones? To contour, the secret to doing it so it’s not in-your-face is to use a darker foundation. Use professional makeup concealer, which has a heavier consistency, and apply it with a brush and blend it with a sponge. Then set it with translucent powder.

I totally Swear by Vitamin E capsule, lemon juice and Tea Tree oil and also white eyeliner on waterline to awaken the eyes..for my hair, I use a blend of oils and not just coconut oil..and yes warm water and lemon every morning is a must !

Source: 1, 2

Which secret do you swear by ? Do you follow these ?

Living Nature Tinted Moisturiser Review, Swatches

Living Nature Tinted Moisturiser Evening Light Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: Highly Commended: ‘Best Tinted Moisturiser’, Natural Health Beauty Awards 2011.

Protect and moisturise with a sheer, natural hint of colour to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh all day. Works beautifully on its own, or with Luminous Pressed Powder for extra coverage. Active Manuka Honey provides nourishment.

For all skin types. Evening Light is our darker shade.

To Use: Apply with fingertips and blend onto both sides of the face from the nose outwards. Use light sweeping movements and take special care to blend past the jawline.

Comes in 3 shades: Dawn Light,Day Light,Evening Light

Ingredients (INCI):

Aqua (water), Jojoba esters, Macadamia ternifolia seed oil, Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil**, Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter**, Cetearyl wheatstraw glycosides (&) cetearyl alcohol (wheatstraw extracts), Cetyl alcohol (from coconut oil), Citrus grandis (grapefruit) seed extract, Persea gratissima (avocado) oil, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Glycerin (vegetable), Mel (manuka honey), Pelargonium graveolens (geranium) oil, Sclerotium gum, Stearic acid (from vegetable oils), Leptospermum scoparium (manuka) oil, Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil, Geraniol, Citronellol. [May contain: +/- Titanium dioxide (CI 77891), Zinc oxide (CI 77947), Mica (Cl 77019), Iron oxides (Cl 77491, Cl 77492, Cl 77499), Talc (CI 77718)].

**Certified organic

MRP: US$ 37.00 for 50ml

I have the Evening Light which is a little dark for my skin..the Day Light would have worked better. I mix this with a lighter foundation or top it up with a lighter powder if used as it is…but even if used on its own..it does not appear too dark and settles with the natural skin tone.

It has a very light floral kinda smell which I like..feels very very light on the skin..since its water based..I love that it feels so light..you never feel like you have anything on the skin..

I love their trademark half cylindrical and half flat the base bottle..it has a flip cap on top..with a small opening for the product to come out..

Pros:

1. Feels very light on skin.
2. Adjusts to the natural skin tone.
3. Since it is water based..it would suit all skin types.
4. Different and nice packaging.
5. Natural and Organic Ingredients.
6. Parabens and chemical free.
7. Stays for a good 6-7 hours.
8. Has a light floral smell.

Cons:

1. Only three shades available.
2. Expensive.
3. Availability is an issue.

Overall I have no cons with the texture and formula..its one of the best Tinted Moisturisers I have tried..completely loved the water based formula..and light feel..but it sure is expensive for a TM..and availability is an issue too..

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Would love to..

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

Rouge Bunny Rouge Highlighting Liquid Review, Swatches

Rouge Bunny Rouge Seas of Illumination Highlighting Liquid Review, Swatches

About the brand: Intricate and luxurious cosmetics brand, Rouge Bunny Rouge, twists opulence and beauty with embellished detailing to deliver a range of colour make up that embraces both romance and whimsy. Wearable, blendable and adaptable formulas and shades are at the very heart of Rouge Bunny Rouge. The formulas are absolutely outstanding and have been sourced from the world’s most sophisticated laboratories. We are delighted to be able to share this very unique and qualitative brand with you.

At sunset in the Enchanted Garden, you can fleetingly glimpse the mermaids dancing in the gently lapping waves of the Grand Moon Seas. Evening mists rise and tenderly caress them, lingering languorously on their bodies to gift their skin with uncommon youth and beauty.

We were inspired by this scene to bring you this dream-in-a-bottle, so that you can have your very own transformation. The moisturising surge of liquid pearls will dance whispers on your skin till dawn. Be as playful as the magical being that you are… you’ll still look as sublimely refined and urbanely elegant as the Moon itself. The tiny reflective particles will illuminate you anywhere you choose, with a sinfully quivering effect to quietly showcase your beauty. Bring fine-spun silver thrills by night or by day – to eyes, brows, temples, shoulders… No one can eclipse you, Moon Mermaid.

This multipurpose water-based fluid blends easily with moisturiser, or with foundation, to customise the look – to yours alone. Create an inside-out illumination effect and blend it to a thin, refined wash of pearls. Light fragrance of Cucumber with a touch of Peach Flower will add to your application pleasure. A quartet of shades with Melissa extract to soothe, and Vitamin E to guard against ageing. The highlighting liquid can be used alone or over moisturiser and as a highlighter, over foundation, too.

Small tricks:
Use your fingertips or RBR Foundation Brush (# 009) to apply a fine sheen to moisturised skin. Blend MILK AQUARELLE on top or mix the Liquid Foundation with the Highlighting Liquid and apply the two together for a light-reflecting radiance.

For an almost-invisible bloom of health and radiance, mix with either the PRELUDE IN THE CLOUDS or SERAPHIC VEIL and finish with a hint of powder.

Use ´Sea of Clouds´ (white) for a sophisticated and dramatic effect or ´Sea of Nectar´ or ´Sea of Showers´ (beige and gold versions) for a more subtle shimmer. Use the Foundation Brush or your fingertips to highlight your cheekbones, brow, nose. Use the Sea of Clouds (silver-white) on the bridge of your nose to make it look thinner. A small amount blended into the tip of your nose will make it appear shorter.

Mix any of the four shades with our new Tinted Moisturisers to wash your skin with a light-reflecting radiance.


MRP: £ 45.00 for 30ml (Rs. 3600/-)

 

L-R: Nectar, Tranquility, Clouds, Showers

Sea of Clouds: Imagine liquid pearl, and you have the shade of this highlighter. Perfect for pale and light to medium skin tones with cool undertones (red heads and blondes with green, blue or grey eyes), it will create that ethereal, ‘bathed in moonlight’ look. “Moonlight on the water” luminous effect – Perfect for making any skin tone and colour looking brighter and fresher.

Sea of Tranquility: The soft pink hue is filled with silver and gold inflections, which makes it versatile enough to work for pale skin tones as well as olive skin tones. It’s a fab shade to use as we move from winter to spring, as it does a magical job brightening your complexion to make you look fresh and fancy. Palest milky opalescence, with super fine pink, white and gold pearls, luminous effect – Perfect for enlivening tired looking skin and all skin tones

Sea of Showers: We’ll let you into a little secret: this is the best-selling shade of RBR’s Highlighting Liquids. If you have pale skin, don’t worry, the gold hue of the highlighter will act like a liquid bronzer, gently bringing a warm glow to your skin. For tan and darker skin tones, it will blend beautifully with your skin to create a totally natural radiance. Honeyed white-gold with a luminous effect – Use all year round for golden tawny gorgeousness or to enliven pale blue winter tones

Sea of Nectar: The darkest shade of RBR’s Highlighting Liquids is stunning on tanned and dark skin. The rose-gold shade will warm skin to make you look like a sun goddess all year round, much to the envy of everyone around you. Gold-in-rose to give a pale copper luminous effect, stunning – To warm and uplift cool skin.

L-R: Nectar, Clouds, Tranquility, Showers

I have the small samples of it..I have used it 5-6 times..now I do not use highlighters on a daily basis..but occasionally…these are just awesome ! I guess I won’t need to say anything else..

Blended

Liquid Highlighters..not too shimmery..stay on the whole day..look amazing mixed with a foundation (give an amazing dewy finish) ! What else does one need :p

These are super easy to blend and very easy to work with. I use it at the top of the cheek bones, brow bone, bridge of the nose and cupid’s bow.

I am totally loving them..

The problem with this as always is the availability ! Its available at Zuneta here. This sure is super expensive too !

But if you don’t mind shelling for a good liquid highlighter..I totally recommend this..I love the Sea of Showers the most..it does bring a warm glow to the skin.

P.S: PR Samples

Which is your favorite ?

All About Essential Oils and Carrier Oils

All About Essential Oils and Carrier Oils

People are generally afraid to use oils on their face..thinking it will clog their pores and they would get acne..and how can oil be used on the face,etc..

The fact being oils do not harm your skin..in fact some oils even help them get better..some essential oils like tea tree oil help in combating and healing acne and acne scars..And some base oils like olive oil are very good for cleansing..in fact it is the best and most natural make up remover.

So what are essential oils and carrier oils or base oils ?

Essential oils: An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word “oil” are not really oily-feeling at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color.

Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.

Essential oils are not the same as perfume or fragrance oils. Where essential oils are derived from the true plants, perfume oils are artificially created fragrances or contain artificial substances and do not offer the therapeutic benefits that essential oils offer.

The chemical composition and aroma of essential oils can provide valuable psychological and physical therapeutic benefits. These benefits are usually achieved through methods including inhalation and application of the diluted oil to the skin.

Essential oils are often used by diluting them with a carrier oil (sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil) and then applying this blend to the skin for absorption.

Careful inhalation of the oils can also provide therapeutic benefit as the oil molecules enter the lungs and are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Essential Oils are usually sold for individual use in very small bottles.Essential oils can vary greatly in quality and price. Factors that can affect the quality and price of the oil include the rarity of the botanical, the country of origin and growing/climate conditions, quality standards of the distiller, and how much oil is produced by the botanical.

Essential oils can often be purchased as blends of several essential oils. The advantage if it is a blend of pure essential oils is that you can save from having to buy every essential oil individually. The disadvantage is that you have no control over the blend by not mixing it yourself nor can you reliably mix the blend with other oils.

Essential oils are categorized on the degree of their lightness and they are divided into base, average and top.

Base or Carrier oils : Carrier oils, also known as vegetable oils, base oils or fixed oils, are used to dilute essential oils, CO2s and absolutes before applying to the skin.

A carrier oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds, kernels or the nuts.

If applied to the skin undiluted, essential oils, absolutes, CO2s and other concentrated aromatics can cause severe irritation or reactions in some individuals. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential and other oils prior to application. They carry the essential oil onto the skin.

Each carrier oil offers a different combination of therapeutic properties and characteristics. The choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought.

Natural lotions, creams, body oils, bath oils, lip balms and other moisturizing skin care products are also made using vegetable (carrier) oils. From a simple essential oil/carrier oil blend to a more complex natural lotion, your choice of carrier oil can make a difference in the therapeutic properties, color, overall aroma and shelf life of your final product.

Essential Oils v/s Carrier Oils

Essential oils are distilled from the leaves, bark, roots and other aromatic portions of a botanical. Essential oils evaporate and have a concentrated aroma. Carrier oils, on the other hand, are pressed from the fatty portions (seeds, nuts, kernels) and do not evaporate or impart their aroma as strongly as essential oils. Carrier oils can go rancid over time, but essential oils do not. Instead, essential oils “oxidize” and lose their therapeutic benefits, but they don’t go rancid.

Vegetable Oils/Fixed Oils/Base Oils

The term carrier oil is generally limited to use within the practice of aromatherapy. In natural skin care, carrier oils are typically referred to as vegetable oils, fixed oils or base oils. Not all fixed oils/base oils are vegetable oils. Emu oil (from the emu bird) and fish (marine) oils are also classified as fixed/base oils, but these animal-based oils are generally not used for aromatherapy work.
The Aroma of Carrier Oils

Some carrier oils are odorless, but generally speaking, most have a faintly sweet, nutty aroma. If you come across a carrier oil that has a strong, bitter aroma, the carrier oil may have gone rancid.

Are you afraid of using oils on your skin too ?

Auravedic Pulpy Face Wash Honey Almond Review

Auravedic Pulpy Face Wash Honey Almond Review

What the Company claims: This pure moisturizing Face Wash combines honey and sweet almond oil, providing a luxurious blend, gently cleansing, nourishing and rejuvenating the skin, leaving it feel refreshed and invigorated, ready to tackle the day.

Directions for use : Scoop on to fingertips and gently massage over skin before rinsing it off.

Ingredients: Jojoba oil, Almond oil, Rose oil, Saffron extract, Geranium oil, Neroli oil, Khus oil, Honey, Coconut fatty acid, Triathanolamine, Phenoxyethanol.

MRP: Rs. 150/- for 50g and Rs. 250/- for 100g

Variants Available:

  • Neem Tea Tree Pulpy Face Wash (For oily acne prone skin)
  • Rose Saffron Pulpy Face Wash (For Anti Aging and/or Dry Skin)

Its a honey almond based pulpy face wash with a blend of essential oils..its parabens, SLS free..and free from harmful chemicals and colors..made up of natural ingredients..

Its a white colored tub packaging..with a cap in..and is peachy brown in color..though it seems gel like..its quite thick and gooey.

The blend of essential oils give it its base smell..you just need a little amount..and is to be used on moist face..I massage face 1-2 minutes…and it cleanses amazingly well..love the way skin feels !

Pros:

1. One of the best face washes I have used..it does what it claims.
2. Cleanses skin well..without ant dryness.
3. Made of pure and natural ingredients.
4. Parabens, SLS and colors free.
5. Love the blend of essential oils in it.
6. This 50 g is going to last long..since a little amount is needed.
7. Economical.

Cons:

1. Not available easily..its not seen at the Auravedic site too..though some Auravedic stuff is available online now at Natural Mantra, Craftsvilla, Purplle, Good Life and Green Yard.
2. Its difficult to use from a jar every time.
3. Keep it away from eyes and chapped or dry lips..it stings horribly !

Since it contains essential oils..they advise sensitive skin to stay away from it..coz one can never predict what would react with the skin..but others..I surely recommend this..you can get depending on the skin type..Neem, Honey or Rose..but this is a must try ! I am totally loving it..

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes !

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

Lotus Herbals Colour Dew Nail Enamel Review, NOTD

Lotus Herbals Colour Dew Nail Enamel Crimson Red Review, NOTD

ColourDEW™ is a range of 10 exciting Nail enamels all together in a new packaging
Natural and safe,
Acetone, DBP and toluene free,
Fast drying,
Flat and sturdy brush.
Smooth application

Directions for use:
Side-effects of Acetone on nail cuticles are :
it dehydrates them
makes them fragile
makes them dull and dry
it can irritate skin
Toluene and DBP, found in common lacquers and nail polish: are skin irritants

Available Shades:

  • Ice Cube 903
  • Crimson Red 912
  • Mahogany 943
  • Gold Mist 972
  • Copper Gold 973
  • Ocean Love 83
  • Cherry Crush 91
  • Candy Drop 92
  • Luscious Berry 93
  • Cozy Mulberry 94
MRP: Rs. 99/- for 8ml

 

I am reviewing the shade 912 Crimson Red. I have already reviewed their previous Color Marvel Nail Paints here.
These have a slimmer and better packaging..I liked the bottle..and also the brush..it spreads evenly and faster. Also its dries fast.
Crimson Red is a true bridal red shade…I love such reds..Another similar one I like is Street Wear Bridal Red. But since I found this now..and its Acetone, DBP and toluene free..I am sticking onto this..and surely getting this for my red stock forever !
Pros:1. Its Acetone, DBP and Toluene free.
2. Did not chip for 6 days and then chipped a little at the tips.
3. The brush is nice…non messy, fuss free application in a minute.
4. The shade is opaque enough and just 2 coats are required.
5. Dries fast.
6. Economical at the price..as it offers 8ml.Cons:

1. Availability is a problem with Lotus Herbals Cosmetics.

No other cons. I am totally loving this shade, the opaqueness, does not chip for 6-7 days and Acetone, DBP and Toluene free. And the Crimson Red Shade ! I am totally getting this..and recommending for sure..
Rating:Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes !

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

Faces Long Wear Eye Pencil Review,Swatches

Faces Long Wear Eye Pencil Navy Blue Review,Swatches

What the Company claims: Soft, creamy eye liner pencil glides on easily over the eye lid to define and highlight your eyes. The long staying formula lasts all day, yet is gentle and safe for people with sensitive eyes.

MRP: Rs. 249/- for 1.15g

Shades available:

  • Black Sparkle
  • Aqua Blue
  • Dark Green
  • Forest Green
  • Navy Blue
  • Metal Brown
  • Gray
  • Solid Brown
  • Purple
  • Turquoise Blue
Navy Blue is an inky petrol blue shade..the blue that makes your eyes look whiter..I love this shade !
Faces Long Wear Eye Pencils are indeed long wear and super creamy. They stay put the whole day and are easy to sharpen and use..I am quite amazed at the staying power.
T- 1 swipe B- 2 swipes

I had used it in my Soft Romantic EOTD here

Pros:

1. Stays put whole day !
2. Quite pigmented..just 1 swipe gives a good enough color.
3. Glides on super smooth..no tugging or pulling.
4. Economical.
5. Available in 9-10 pretty shades.
6. Safe for sensitive eyes..did not irritate on waterline too.
7. Sharpens well..without wastage.
8. As its sharpening and not mechanical..hygienic.Cons:

1. You need a good remover to take it off completely.
2. Faces Cosmetics is not available easily everywhere.

I have no other issues with these ! These are totally recommended and must have !

Rating:

Quality: 5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Availability: 3.75/5

Overall Rating: 4.25/5

Would I buy it again: Yes ! I love this Navy Blue..and also Metal Brown and Purple

Have you tried the Faces Long Wear Pencils ? Which is your favorite shade ?