Tag Archives: Indian Lifestyle Blog

Current Makeup & Beauty Favourites | Go To Base Makeup Products

Current Makeup & Beauty Favourites | Go To Base Makeup Products

Current Makeup & Beauty Favourites | Go To Base Makeup Products

Hi guys,

I have shared all my current makeup and beauty favourites in this video along with a mini review of each product. Also covered my current go to base makeup products, explaining how exactly I do my base.

Products mentioned:

Face:

MAC Conceal & Correct Palette Medium Deep – Rs.3650
The Body Shop Cushion Foundation in Wanaka Honey- Rs.2695
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer- $10
Wet N Wild Mega Glo Contouring Palette in Caramel Toffee- $6 or Rs.550
Becca Champagne Pop Highlighter – $38
Pixi Beauty Glow Mist- $15

Eyes:

Avon True Cosmic Brown Glimmerstick Eyeliner – Rs/399 (Buy HERE)
Lakme French Rose Eyeshadow Palette- Rs.995 (Buy HERE)
Mistine 3D Brows Secret Set – Rs.500 (Buy HERE)
Colourpop Honey Dude eyeliner – $6
MAC In extreme Dimension Lash Mascara- Rs.1990 (Buy HERE)

Lips:

Kat Von D Lolita & Lolita II- $20

How I cover my dark circles now is covered more HERE, learning from Director of Makeup Artistry, MAC India and celebrity Bollywood Makeup Artist, Mickey Contractor himself. I mix the orange and yellow correctors from the Concealer palette to get the perfect peach and then go on top with the concealer. A detailed break up in the video above.

I hope you liked this video, let me know your favourites in the comments below.

Reviving 50’s fashion: Skirts in vogue this Summer

Reviving 50’s fashion: Skirts in vogue this Summer

By Ankita  

1. 

The 1950s: World war is just over and people’s mind seep with liberated ideas and view. It was also a time of transition for the fashion world. Women, now venerated from preconceived ideas of feminism now opted for more of an outlandish look, never ignoring the classy quotient.

2. 

The Vintage Era: Welcome aboard the vintage era. Fashion at this time was marked by a rather girl-next- door yet glamorous look. The dressing style of the 5o’s always fascinated me, however, what really caught my attention were the skirts

Flirty Fashion: SKIRTS

Playful, innocently flirty, these twirl-y pieces of fabric are a must-have in every girl’s wardrobe, what I believe. Skirts have gone through some major transformations over the years, however, no one wore it better than the 50’s ladies. Here are a few trending ideas that will make you the girl-next-door diva, without making it look as if you just jumped out of a medieval circus. Want a bit classy elegance wrapped in playful fashion? Stay tuned mon cheries

A. The Play Date: Full Circle skirts

These skirts were an everyday essential for women in the 50’s. Full circle skirts have a waistband just above the natural waistline, giving an illusion of thinness. They make the hips look fuller and waist smaller, and are absolutely figure flattering.

3. 

4. 

Colours to go for this summer: Aquamarines, pastel shades of salmon and pink would suit the look best!!

Team it up with: A pair of light salmon peep toes and animal print tees and you are all set for your play date

B. For the ‘Not-so- girly-yet- girly’ Girl: Half Circle Skirts

Not the Barbie girl? This one’s just for you. A little less flashy than full circle skirt, half circle skirts have less flare at the hem. Women with naturally fuller hips would find it extremely flattering. Somewhere in between an A-line and a full circle skirt, these skirts are perfect for an everyday outing and even official parties.

5. 

6. 

Colours to go for this summer: Tan brown, off-white shades with tiny symmetrical prints and especially shades of royal blue look best on these.

Team it up with: A pair of ballerina flats or Jelly shoes ( tan colors look best) and high-neck soft cotton blouses which are a few shades darker than your skirt. There you go, my sweet tomboy!

C. Paris is always a good idea: Poodle skirts

Poodle skirts are an absolute favourite of mine!! They remind of the streets of Paris and famous song ‘La vie en rose’. These are one such style statement that has lasted the decades. They come with very catchy embroideries like kitties, Eiffel tower, telephones and even, statements such as ‘See you later alligator’

7. 

8. 

Colours to go for this summer: Without a question of doubt, baby pinks, Fuchsia, and light greys!!

Team it up with: A pair of cone heels or stilettos. Keep the top simple as your poodle skirt deserves most of the attention. Casual half sleeve blouses or even a very simple, tucked in, semi-formal shirt would go well with it. And your carriage is ready mademoiselle….

D. For ‘always chasing the ice cream van’ girl: Gathered Skirts

Hands up for how many of you are still stuck up in the school age! Me for sure. This one is for “I do not care what they think, I will have my ice cream" personalities. These look fabulous on women without much natural hip since the bulky band gave instant curves.

9. 

10. 

Colours to go for this summer: When it comes to gathered skirt, it is more about the print than colour. Big bright prints on the hemline, light summer checks in shades of blue and pinks suit the look best. However, you can pretty much experiment a lot with gathered skirts.

Team it up with: A pair of oxfords or kitten heels, a few shades lighter than your attire. Buttoned up shirts in very pale and light shades compliment this look very well. Go and get your ice cream girl!!!!

E. For the Lady of the house: Pencil Skirts

Who said pencil skirts can be boring and stereotypical?? Pencil skirts are one of the most figure flattering attires on the face of the earth! However, a modified version of pencil skirts are sheath skirts which are more comfortable. But my favourite version of pencil skirts are mermaid skirts or fishtail skirts. They balance out proportion beautifully well and suit almost all body shapes

11. 

12. 

Colours to go for this summer: As opposed to the usual black and grey, go for burnt oranges and teal colours this summer.

Team it up with: A pair of really good pumps and formal shirt, even a t-shirt. Top it off with a pale pastel colour blazer and you are all set to work, work, work, work…work.

F. For the Bay Watch Babe: Gypsy skirts

The world is going gaga over boho fashion. However, did you know that the gypsy style skirt comes from a long lost lineage of tiered skirts? Also referred to as layered skirts, these are perfect for beach outings. Long, flowy and mystic when combined with the right accessories and top, they make you look like a Greece-ian Goddess and is a win-win over bikini anytime any day. Period.

13. 

14. 

Colours to go for this summer: Shades of pastel pink, salmon, cool light brown and sea-green would rock this look. However, the fabric is most as it needs to be extremely lightweight and flowy, with a hint of shimmer, to give you that mythical iridescent look.

Team it up with: A chiffon crop top or halter neck with a bejewelled neckline will complement these skirts best. A pair of gladiators, add on some boho trinkets, are you a goddess of the seas or what??!!!!

Who said classy can’t be sassy? These were my ideas of 1950s fashion revival with a little bit of my own twist. What are yours?

Any suggestions, comments, and ideas are always welcome 🙂

Busting Shaving Myths – Part 2

Busting Shaving Myths – Part 2

Hi guys,

If you remember I had previously done a post  busting shaving myths, read HERE

So today I am busting another shaving myth.

Myth 2: Shaving leaves skin dry and flaky

Shaving is a form of mild exfoliation as it removes the top layer of dead skin cells along with the hair. So you feel your skin is dry/flaky if it is dehydrated and not moisturized enough! If your skin is well moisturized and then you take a shower and shave, the skin is soft and moist and you can shave in ease. Also it won’t leave any dry flakes or scaly skin.

Using the Gillette Venus Satin Shave Gel makes a huge difference in your shave and how your skin feels after! I tried one leg normally and one leg with the Satin Shave Gel, the one with the shave gel was much more moisturized and softer. And now I have switched to the new Gillette Venus Breeze, so my skin is soft and moisturized even without a separate shaving gel, because of the attached soap gel bars.

Always moisturize your skin well post shaving! The dryness, itchiness and flaky skin is only because skin is craving moisture, it is not because of shaving. If your skin will be moisturized well before and after shaving and you use the Satin Shave Gel or the new Breeze razor, there will no dry, flaky skin for sure!

I hope your doubts on skin being dry/flaky post shaving are solved. If you have any other questions related to shaving, please feel free to ask in the comments below and I would be happy to answer.

Do you shave? How has your experience been with shaving?

Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach Review

Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach Review

Hi guys,

Summers are at it’s peak right now, as it’s May, the hottest month in India. And we all face a lot of skin problems in summers. Let’s talk a bit about that..

Skin problems we face in summers

The scorching summer heat, dust, pollution, stress and our lifestyle impact the oxygen levels in our skin. That brings along a lot of skin issues like

  • Dull Skin
  • Uneven Skin tone
  • Dead Skin Cells
  • Sun Tan
  • Dark Spots

Today I am reviewing the new Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach. I am not someone who bleaches regularly, I was a little wary of bleaching and used to do it occasionally. I met Dr. Rashmi Shetty at an event and asked her about bleaching, if it is bad for the skin, and to my surprise, she said not at all. She said you just need to add moisture and hydration to the skin, if you take care of it, then bleaching does no harm.

So I am quite confident about bleaching now. I have used the Oxylife bleach previously, but not this new variant and I thought of giving this a try.

Claims and Features of Oxylife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach: Gone are those days when bleaching caused a row of sirens blazing in your head. With Oxy Life Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach, your skin will feel pampered like a queen.

  • Enriched with active oxygen and post bleach skin radiance serum, here’s a bleach wonder that will make your life easy
  • Helps in eliminating dark spots
  • Helps even skin tone and remove sun tan
  • Helps repair dull skin and cleanses dead skin cells
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach has patented German Technology – Oxysphere, which enables Pure Oxygen molecules to be penetrated inside the skin, giving it pure boost of Oxygen, leaving it naturally radiant.

It is also enriched with Vitamin E and Glycerin to help condition, brighten and nourish the skin and help solve 5 skin problems to give a naturally radiant looking skin.

MRP: Rs.35/- for 9g (one time use), Rs.80/- for 27g (3 uses)

Benefits of Bleaching

Bleaching helps add oxygen to the skin, making it brighter and helps in evening out skin tone and fading acne spots, etc. It also helps remove dead skin cells and repair dull skin, making it look more vivid and glowing. If you are targeting to eliminate acne scars and spots, you should do it regularly. Bleach can be used every 21 days.

How to use:

Oxylife is widely used in salons, and anytime I happen to go and ask them which bleach do they use, majorly it’s always Oxylife.

It comes with the creme bleach, powder activator, spatula, post bleach serum and an instructions manual. The creme bleach and powder activator is to be mixed in the ratio of 7:1. If you are not sure of the measurements, you can buy the one time use pack and mix both in the quantity given.

I have the 3 time use pack with me, and if you follow me on Snapchat, you must have already seen me using this.

You can mix the creme and powder in the dish that comes in the creme tub. Mix it well till the powder dissolves.

Steps of application:

  • Remove all makeup with a makeup remover and wash your face.
  • Pat dry with a tissue/paper towel.
  • Apply the bleach first on the Y zone i.e. the neckline, jaw and chin
  • Then on the the T zone i.e. the forehead, upper lip and nose
  • And in the last 5 minutes on the C zone i.e. the cheeks
  • Avoid eyes, lips, eyebrows completely. Keep it on for 10 minutes if you have deep skin, 15 minutes for wheatish skin and a little bit longer if you have fair skin.

I kept it for 10-15 minutes and washed it with normal water. I saw an immediate difference on my skin! Skin was more even toned and clear looking. The tan was all gone, and there was a fresh glow to the face.

It also works on dark spots, but with regular use, once every 21 days.

Few Pointers:

  • A patch test is recommended for first-time users.
  • Cleanse the skin well and pat dry, before use.
  • Creme Bleach and the activator powder should be used in the ratio of 7:1, Mix the crème bleach and powder activator for 2 minutes with the spatula provided till powder activator completely dissolves.
  • Apply the mixture on the area to be bleached.
  • Avoid application on eyebrows and around the eyes.
  • Wash off the application with water and Apply the post-bleach serum.
  • Bleach should be used once in every 21 days
  • Do not use soap/face wash for 5 hours after bleach.
  • Avoid going into sunlight immediately.

Why Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Creme Bleach

It comes with the post bleach skin radiance serum that is very moisturizing. I can feel the glycerin in the serum and it hydrated the skin well. I do not use anything else on my face for about 12-15 hours and avoid going out. I would recommend bleaching in the evening, so that you can skip direct exposure to sunlight. Learn more about how to use oxygen bleach for face (OxyLife)

I love the fact that this is ammonia free. Whenever you bleach, go for ammonia free bleach only. My eyes get irritated and water a lot during bleach, and I was surprised that this did not irritate my eyes at all.

It fights all skin problems that come along with sun exposure, stress and pollution and gives a healthy looking radiant and glowing skin! Skin gets more oxygen, and it repairs dull skin and helps in fading acne scars/spots.

It comes in different sizes,  the one time use pack is perfect for travel too.

Overall, I am really happy with the results. It does what it claims, and I highly recommend trying this out.

Read more about Oxylife at www.oxygenforskin.com and check out their facebook page HERE

Have you tried the Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach yet?

May 2017 Sip Of Summer My Envy Box Review, Unboxing

May 2017 Sip Of Summer My Envy Box Review, Unboxing

Hi guys,

I received the May My Envy Box today. I absolutely love the watermelon print, it’s so refreshing and looks like water colours. Although the edges came a bit torn, the box looks real good.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

The theme is ‘Sip of Summer’ this month and it’s a summer edition box.

Products I received:

  • The Nature’s Co. Mango Creme Body Wash- Rs.695/- for 175ml
  • Cheryl’s Dermashade Sunblock SPF 30- Rs.550/- for 50g
  • Fuschia Herbal Fusion Shampoo (Rs.450/- for 100ml)
  • Grecobe Green Coffee (Rs.70 for 5 sachets)
  • Omorfee Mellow Drizzle Skin Toner (4ml x 2 vials)
  • L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, Reine Blanche Illuminating Cream and Serum sachets

I am super impressed with the first three products, the quantity is amazing, 3 full sized products! I have tried the Cheryl’s Sunblock before and it’s quite good. The Mango body wash is perfect for the season and smells yumm.

The Fuschia shampoo is little expensive for the price, but I haven’t tried haircare from this brand, so looking to trying that out.

Green Coffee is meant to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss and improve stamina, so you can try these sachets and see if you notice any difference, before investing in the bigger size.

Rest are small samples, the Omorfee toner looks interesting though considering it has sour honey, lavender, cucumber, rose, etc.

Overall, I would say I am pretty impressed and do recommend this month’s box. The total value of the products in the box comes to around Rs.2000/-

What did you get in your May My Envy Box?

Facial Hair Removal | How & Why I Shave + Demo | Dermaplaning

Facial Hair Removal | How & Why I Shave + Demo | Dermaplaning

Hi guys,

Today I am talking about facial hair removal, facial shaving in particular. I have been doing it since 2.5 months now, this video is pre recorded.

Basically dermatologists do dermaplaning using their hi end tools, but it is nothing but shaving. And you can even shave using these regular facial razors.

But do not ever use the body razor on the face, the facial razor is supposed to be blunt because the facial skin is 10x thinner and softer than body skin.

You get these travel friendly, handy razors in a pack of 3 and 4. One blade lasts about 2-3 months and the whole pack comes for 250-300 which makes it very economical.

MRP: Rs.315/- (Buy HERE)

I used to thread regularly, especially eye brows and upper lips. I haven’t done it since 3-4 months now, thanks to this razor! I am so happy with the results, all it takes is 5 minutes in a week and I am sorted.

It will not make your hair grow thicker or darker and you will not get a beard, the hair growth is very normal and you will not feel any difference in hair growth or thickness, but just that you will have to continue doing it once a week.

I am personally very happy with the results, as it removes dead skin cells and makes the skin more smooth, also helping in penetration of skin care products. The makeup goes on smoother and the whole face looks neat.

I am a convert, and I am not going to get threading done again. My eye brows used to always get threaded thinner, and now I just have to shave few extra hair and I am sorted. I prefer my eye brows natural and thick, and now I can have them the way I like.

I highly recommend trying out shaving, more details in the video. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

May 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

May 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got my Fab Bag a day late this time, coz of Blue Dart goofup.

Anyway this month’s theme is travel and I love the ‘Eat Sleep Travel Repeat’ Bag, it’s very cute and good to travel with of course.

It’s The Beauty Trippin’ May Fab Bag

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

Products I received:

  • Essence Silky Touch Blush 90 (Full size) – Rs.299/-
  • Johara Pro Shine Nail Colour Pink Youth (Full size 10ml)- Rs.250/-
  • Soap Square Foot Soak (Deluxe size 79g)- Rs.400/- for 140g
  • Inatur Olive Cleansing Milk (Full size)- Rs.225/- for 100ml
  • Elize Premium Sanitary Pads (Rs.100 for 2 pads)
  • Veet Ready to Use Wax Strips (Rs.99/- for 8 strips)

Total value of all the products in this month’s Fab Bag for me is Rs.1200/- Since makeup item will depend on individual’s choice, the price will vary from bag to bag.

But overall all 6 products are pretty good and decent sized samples, I quite like the May Bag and do recommend it.

What did you get in your May Fab Bag?

10 Best Sunscreens for Different Skin Types in India, Prices, Buy Online

10 Best Sunscreens for Different Skin Types in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Sunscreen and summer go hand in hand. Applying any base makeup is really tedious but you just can’t step outside the house without applying a generous amount of sunscreen. Also, make sure you apply 15-20 mins before stepping into the sun. Summer is already here and the heat is becoming unbearable day by day. Therefore, no matter what is your skin type or complexion, apply the sunscreen before stepping out and reapply whenever required. Here’s the list of the best sunscreens in India for all skin types.

FOR OILY SKIN

1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50 – Price Rs. 499 (BUY HERE)

The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock comes in a white and blue tube with a decent price tag. It is stabilized with Helioplexâ which provides superior balanced broad spectrum protection against skin aging UVA and burning UVB rays. The SPF 50 (PA +++) is the perfect thing for Indian summers and the product imparts a fresh smell too. It blends into the skin really good without any white cast and gives a true matte finish.

2. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel SPF 50 – Price Rs. 395 (BUY HERE for 308)

This is one sunscreen I have been using for years and I have no intention to shift to any other product. It comes in a bright orange tube with a flip open cap. It has a thick vicious gel texture and blends into the skin so quickly, leaving a fresh trail of bloom and matte touch. It is a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and works like a charming for skin protection and tanning. It is priced at a budget friendly tag. This is one of the best selling sunscreen for oily skin in India.

3. Lakme 9 to 5 Mattifying Super Sunscreen SPF 50 – Price Rs. 525 (Review HERE) (BUY HERE for 394)

The Lakme 9 to 5 Mattifying Super Sunscreen has a broad spectrum protection from UV rays with SPF 50. The sunscreen comes in a beautiful rose gold packaging with a convenient pump. It’s a non tinted light weight sunscreen which glides easily on the skin due to the presence of silicones. It doesn’t leave any whitish cast and gives a decent matte finish. The sunscreen is non-comedogenic and hypo-allergic and will not break you out. It also prevents tanning, sunburn and helps to even out the skin.

4. Suncros Soft Matte Finish Sunscreen SPF 50+++ – Price Rs. 575 (Review HERE) (BUY HERE)

The Suncros Soft Matte Finish Sunscreen has a broad spectrum UV protection with SPF50. It has a convenient tube packaging and the texture of the product is thick and creamy. It is completely waterproof and sweat-proof and hence perfect pick for sultry summers. It has silicones and act as a decent primer as well. It gives a soft matte finish and is completely free from chemical sunscreen agents. The micronized zinc oxide is Suncros’ USP which penetrates through the skin and protects the skin from UV rays. Overall, all this is another great pick for oily and acne prone skin.

FOR DRY SKIN

5. Kaya Skin Clinic Daily Moisturising Sunscreen SPF 30 – Price Rs. 890 (BUY HERE)

The Kaya Skin Clinic Daily Moisturising Sunscreen SPF 30 is a two-in one sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays which also hydrates the skin and thus a perfect pick for dry and sensitive skin. It prevents from tanning and skin ageing due to sun exposure. The formula is approved by dermatologists and safe for skin. It is creamy, light weight and white in color but doenst leave any whitish cast. The skin remains hydrated and radiant with looking unnecessarily oily.

6. Lakme Sun Expert Fairness UV Lotion (SPF 30) – Price Rs.400 (BUY HERE for 287)

The Lakme Sun Expert Fairness UV Lotion has broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB and has SPF30. The product comes in a bright yellow tube with a thick white creamy texture. It does leave a white cast but after 5-10mins it vanishes. It is best suitable for dry skin and gives a light hydrated look. It protects he skin from harmful sunrays and prevents tanning. It also evens out the skin tone and is enriched with the goodness of lemongrass, cucumber and lactic acid.

7. Lakmé 9 to 5 Hydrating Super Sunscreen + SPF 50 – Price Rs. 525 (BUY HERE for 368)

The Lakmé 9 to 5 Hydrating Super Sunscreen is the right pick normal to dry skin. It has SPF 50 and helps to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. The product has a light lotion like texture and very creamy. It blends well and since it has silicones, it acts as a primer for skin as well. The sunscreen is hydrating and feels very light on the skin with a mild cooling sensation. It is enriched with the goodness of Vitamin B3 and Pro vitamin C and helps the skin to protect against tan and sunburns. Thus, it nourishes and maintains an even tone.

FOR COMBINATION AND NORMAL SKIN

8. Avene Very High Protection Emulsion SPF 50 – Price Rs. 1375 (Review HERE) (BUY HERE)

It is slightly expensive but works like a charm for hyper sensitive skin. The product comes in a sturdy, hygienic, and travel friendly manner and the product is absolutely free from oil, parabens, alcohol, and silicones. It is has a mild fragrance and gets absorbed into skin easily enough. It will make the skin neither greasy nor dry and there is no whitish cast as well. It doesn’t clog pores, break you out and gives a broad spectrum sun protection. The ingredients list is impressive.

9. L’Oreal UV Perfect 12H Longlasting UV Protector – Price Rs. 550 (BUY HERE for 368)

The L’Oreal UV Perfect 12H Longlasting UV Protector comes in a slim pearly white tube with a twist-y cap. The texture is medium and blends into the skin very well. The high SPF50 with optimal UVB and UVA protection is worth mentioning. It has Detoxyl that protects skin against free radicals and pollutants and mexoryl SX and XL. The product gives ultra fine and non greasy and non sticky texture and doubles up as a daily moisturizing make up base as well. This is a good pick for combination skin.

10. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Xl SPF50 Dry Touch Gel-Cream – Price Rs. (BUY HERE)

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Xl Dry Touch Gel-Cream has SPF 50 with optimal protection reinforced against UVA rays. It is further enriched with Mexoplex combined with La Roche-Posay thermal spring water, which is antioxidant and refreshing on the skin. The formula is gel-cream, blends well and great for sensitive, combination to oily skin. It is water resistant and formula is free from parabens, fragrance and non-comedogenic. It gives no white cast or greasiness and prevents tanning and hyper pigmentation.

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice list Sanchita. I love the Lotus, Neutrogena and Avene sunscreens. Suncros is also quite good.

Which sunscreen do you use?

#MACxMickeyContractor Indian Beauty Essentials Natural Makeup Look, Tips & Tricks

#MACxMickeyContractor Indian Beauty Essentials Natural Makeup Look, Tips & Tricks

Hi guys,

So towards the end of March, I attended a session with MAC Cosmetics where Mickey Contractor, Director of Makeup Artistry, MAC India and celebrity Bollywood Makeup Artist, taught us to create a flawless base and a step by step Natural Indian Look!

I was so stoked and happy, I had no idea till I reached the venue that we had to do it step by step with him and he would be teaching us. I thought it was a regular event where the video will be unveiled, etc., but no, we saw the video and we created the whole look on ourselves with Mickey checking each step and teaching us how to do it correctly.

The video came out today and hence I wrote this post half way through earlier and saved in my drafts, because many of you asked me to share the tips and tricks and I thought I should jot them down quickly.

Here is the video..

So here are few tips and tricks Mickey taught us:

  • Always moisturise your face and undereyes before starting with your base. Mickey recommends MAC Studio Moisture Cream. He even mixes it later with the foundation when he needs a sheer look.
  • Spray MAC Fix Plus after the Moisture Cream and then start with concealer/corrector.
  • Everyone has dark circles and that is completely natural. If you try to layer too much of concealer and powder, it will only look ashy and settle in fine lines and crease. So correct and conceal once, go over the concealed area with a foundation and set with powder.
  • We used the MAC Pro Conceal and Correct Palette and he made us mix the concealer and both correctors on our hands to get the perfect match first. And then apply it on the dark circles. It made world of a difference. I mixed the corrector and concealer directly on the under eye area and applied it on one half and it was still looking ashy. I used the Medium palette which had shades close to and lighter to my skin tone. And the lighter concealer was making the dark circles look ashy. He made me take the yellow and orange corrector and the concealer shade on the back of my hand from the Medium Deep Palette, mix it in and add more untill I got the perfect peach. And then I applied it to cover dark circles, it was a perfect match!
  • He usually goes for the same color or a darker concealer for the under eye area and then covers that area with foundation for a seamless, even toned base.
  • Always match the foundation to your neck and body and in natural light only. Wear it through the day to check if it oxidizes and then go ahead and buy your perfect match.
  • Dab powder with a sponge on the under eye area and the T zone and take excess off with a brush. Never swipe concealer/powder. Always dab!
  • Take your eyelash curler till the base of the lashes and press and release the curler till count of 10, hold for 3-4 seconds and leave. Voila, you get amazing well curled lashes.
  • To define your cheekbones, apply blush in a slight slanted upward motion and just for a flush of colour, on the apples of your cheeks.
  • Dab the sponge on your highlighter to blend it in with the skin and take it slightly around the under eye area as it should not be a stark slanted highlighted line on top of your cheekbones and look seamless.
  • Always apply foundation on the neck if you are doing your whole face or just apply foundation partially like only on T zone and problem areas. There shouldn’t be a stark/visible difference between face and neck.

Clean and natural base using minimal products is his USP. He doesn’t like sharp contouring and highlighting, bold brows and all that you see on YouTube and Instagram these days.

He has done numerous Bollywood movies and magazine covers especially Aishwarya Rai, Kajol and Rani Mukherjee’s makeup and you can see how he loves a clean base, natural look and dark kohled eyes. He is a master of the Bollywood Smokey Eye.

In this video, he teaches a Natural Indian Look with a light smoke of kohl which is perfect for summers.

I used these products to create the look, as shown in the video..

  • MAC Pro Conceal & Correct Palette in Medium Deep
  • MAC Studio Fix Fluid NC37
  • MAC Cream Colour Base Hush
  • MAC Eyeshadow Embark
  • MAC Modern Twist Kajal Cat’s Meow
  • MAC In Extreme Dimension Lash Mascara Volume
  • MAC Mocha Blush
  • MAC Lipstick in Half n Half
  • MAC Brushes 217 and 168

The Conceal & Correct Palette helps you mix and match the exact amount of concealer and corrector till you get your perfect shade. This palette is also a must have if you are a makeup artist or do your friends and family’s makeup.

MAC Conceal & Correct Palette Medium Deep

Embark is a matte deep brown eyeshadow with red undertones. It is a perfect shade for a wash of colour like we have done here or for a soft smokey day time look, smudging it with a black kohl pencil underneath. We have used the Modern Twist Kajal in Cat’s Meow, which is the black shade as kohl on the waterline. If you like jet carbon black kohl, you can go for Squid. Gently smudge Embark on the lower lash line to merge the kohl and shadow. Flick the kohl slightly to create a wing like effect. Tightline with Cat’s Meow

Mocha, Hush, Embark

MAC Blush in Mocha is a matte soft peach colour which is very flattering on Indian skin tones, fair to medium especially. MAC Cream Colour Base in Hush gives a very soft and subtle highlight and can also be used all over eyes as a base or to highlight brow bone and inner corners.

MAC Half n Half Lipstick is a satin finish nude brown, I absolutely love this shade. It reminded me of Maybelline My Mahagony which was my favourite nude and was discontinued later on. But I highly recommend Half N Half if you are looking for a good, everyday wear nude shade.

MAC Half N Half

I love how simple this look is, and yet pretty and polished. Clean base, neutral tones and kohl rimmed eyes, suitable for any occasion and works for everyone.

I hope you liked this post and found it helpful. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Maldives Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to Do

Maldives Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to Do

By Sanchita

Introduction – Maldives or the Maldive Islands (known as the ‘The Pearl Necklace’ of the Indian Ocean) is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean consisting of 26 ring-shaped atolls and has over 1,000 coral islands. This is a tranquil haven for wanderlust lovers who crave the exotic islands, mesmerizing sea, white sands, coral reefs and a journey to remember. This one of the best tourist destinations of Asia. It is a paradise for lovers who wish to spend their honeymoon in serene and calm environment. It is dotted with incredible beauty and splendid nature. The destination is extremely enthralling and the best time to visit Maldives is during the month of December to April.

Places to see in Maldives

Utheemu Ganduvaru – Situated in the north of Maldives, this is one of the tourist attractions in Maldives. It is a historical place which is the house of the Sultan Mohammad Thankurufaan. This is indeed a great historical site known for the heroic actions of Maldivians who saved the common folk from the cruel Portuguese conquerors.

HP Reef – This is the place of stunning corals and vibrant marine life. Needless to say, this is among the top-rated tourist attractions in Maldives. The place is situated at the North Male Atoll and dotted with colorful fishes and other marine animals. The place is a protected marine site and perfect for diving. The divine blue sea and vivacity of marine life is surely going to lift your mood.

Biyadhoo Island Resort – It is situated in South Malé Atoll and has a fascinating site of Maldives. It is one of the most serene places to visit and counted among one of the best resorts all over world. It offers various activities like diving, snorkeling and many other water sports. In fact, it is often called the ‘Scuba-diving Island’. There are various luxurious hotels here but the major attraction of this place is snorkeling, scuba diving and canoe-paddling.

Hukuru Miskiiy Mosque – The Hukuru Miskiiy Mosque is also known as the Old Friday Mosque in Maldives and one of the best place to witness the Islamic culture. It is one of the oldest mosque named after the Emperor of the same name. The interior of the mosque offers outstanding architectural designs with carvings of different kinds of patterns and Arabic scripts, which is simply extraordinary. The place is extremely calm and peaceful.

Fihalhohi Island – This is the ideal place for romantic destination. It is located at the South Kaafu Atoll in Malé and offers a gorgeous place for lovers and ideal for your romantic getaway or honeymoon. The beauty and serenity of white sands, coconut palm trees and clear blue water, it is surely going to win your heart. The major attractions are Fihalhohi Island Resort, Rannalhi and Rihiveli beaches.

Things to do in Maldives –

  • Take a bike ride and explore the beauty of the city and especially, Malé which is the largest and liveliest city in Maldives. The roads are perfect for bike rides and you can explore various places as well.
  • Maldives has various local artisans in their workshops and various local arts and crafts are available. Therefore, go for shopping for the local and traditional items.
  • Since this is an island, you can also go for fishing. Take a fishing trip on a speedboat and catch fishes like tuna, sail fish, etc. There are provisions for barbecue as well.
  • There are provisions for water sports like diving, windsurfing and snorkeling, relaxation at sauna and spa, island hopping and many more.
  • The view of sea and pristine sand is serene so you can also relax on the various beaches.
  • There are provisions for spa and massages and other relaxation therapies and pampering. There is a spa at every resort in Maldives.

Cuisine

Maldives is famous for sea food for obvious reasons. Fish (tuna) is one of the important staple of the Maldivian diet. The cuisine of Maldives is a great mix of Arabic, Indian, Sri Lankan and Oriental influences. Coconuts are a key part of many dishes in Maldives. Dishes like Garudhiya, Keemia, Gulha, Mas Huni, Bajiya and Masroshi are very popular in Maldives.

Currency conversion

Currency conversion for Maldives is very easy, there are many reliable currency convertors who will convert your currency to their Maldivian rufiyaa. You can also check the rates using online currency convertor. It helps you with real time figures based on current market or bank foreign exchange rates, it would be of an excellent help while travelling.

Maldives Tourism has a lot to offer, so plan your Maldives trip soon 🙂