Tag Archives: Indian makeup and beauty blog

The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation, Down to Earth Eyeshadow Quad Review, Swatches

The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation, Down to Earth Eyeshadow Quad Review, Swatches

Cushion Foundation, Eye Makeup, Eyeshadows, Foundations, Makeup, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, The Body Shop, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation, Down to Earth Eyeshadow Quad Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

If you have seen the previous post, I have already reviewed The Body Shop’s new Matte Lip Liquid. See HERE

I am quite impressed by those and using them daily currently, kind of obsessed with the Goa Magnolia shade.

However, did the other two launches impress me? Read on to know..

Starting with The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation..

Claims: Our multi-tasking Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation is packed with beneficial skin care ingredients in a portable and innovative design. Discover buildable semi-matte coverage for instantly smoother, shine-free skin and 24 hours of fresh moisture. Experience the freshness of a liquid foundation and the on-the-go practicality of a compact all with mess-free application.

Suitable for sensitive skin , Non-pore clogging, Designed with a built in mirror and pad applicator

MRP: Rs.2695/- for 12g

Shades Available:

  • 03 Malawi Beach (Medium)
  • 04 Wanaka Honey (Dark)

How to use: Apply using the pad applicator for even, lightweight, semi-matte coverage: • Press the pad applicator onto the cushion to activate • Reapply for additional coverage

All brands are coming up with cushion foundations these days. The Body Shop also jumped on the bandwagon, but but only two shades available. Just like Maybelline.

One is for medium skin tones and one is for deeper skin tones. So very fair and deep skin tones will not find their match.

They already have the Fresh Nude Liquid Foundations and that comes in a variety of impressive shades including deeper shades. I wish they would have launched more shades in Cushion Foundation too.

I like the handy, sleek packaging. The mirror is really good and sharp, comes with a sponge. I basically love Cushion Foundations for their ease of use and ease of travel. They are very handy.

It gives a soft, dewy finish which will need to be set with a powder. Coverage is light to medium, so you will definitely need concealer over this.

It stays for about 5-6 hours, you will need powder touch up in between as you will get shiny.

I would say it’s pretty good for daily use for work/college when you do not need heavy coverage. But it is definitely quite expensive.

Here is a small demo..

Price and only two shades would be the cons, other than those, it’s pretty good.

Coming to the quad..

Claims: Our Down to Earth Eyeshadow Quad Brown features 4 neutral eyshadow shades, inspired by nature:

• Oregon Sunstone
• Peru Clay
• Sienna Dust
• Idaho Jasper

Special Features:
• The individul shades all click in and out of the palette casing, so you can switch shades between palettes and quads.
• Shades come in three different finishes: true mattes, iridescent shimmers and eye-catching sparkles.

MRP: Rs.1995/- for 8.8g

How to use: Apply your favorite shades wet or dry directly onto the eyelid. • Start with lighter colors and build up darker colors towards the outer corner of the eye. • To apply the product wet, dampen the bristles of the Down to Earth Multi-Tasker Eyeshadow Brush with a damp tissue.

Shades Available:

  • Brown
  • Plum
  • Black

I have the brown quad. I like the mirror finish packaging of the quad and the fact that the shades could be removed and inter changed. However, I did not see additional shades or that option available at the store yet. Not sure of that.

It comes with a mirror, which is again quite good. Each quad a mix of matte, shimmer and satin finish.

This brown quad has a shimmer peach, matte taupe, shimmer light golden and satin finish deep chocolate brown.

Now I swatched all three at the store and then picked this, out of the Brown and Plum as the shades in Plum did not swatch well on my hand. This one all four shades swatched well. And were creamy and pigmented.

When I tried using it on my eyes, the colours just won’t show up on the lids. I had to go over each shade 2-3 times and this is the result I got finally.

I wouldn’t say it’s bad but it requires a lot of efforts and the result is not that good. I wouldn’t recommend this particular quad, I am not sure how the other two show up on the eyes. The black/grey one looked the most pigmented though.

Overall, I would recommend only the cushion foundation and matte lip liquid from this range, especially the matte liq liquid lipsticks 🙂

Have you tried the new launches from The Body Shop?

Benefits Of Tea Tree Oil + Best Brands for Tea Tree Oil in India

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Benefits Of Tea Tree Oil + Best Brands for Tea Tree Oil in India

By Sucharitha

Who would have thought that this small bottle of oil can be such a miracle for our body? I believed it only after using it myself.

Tea-tree oil is also known as melaleuca oil, it is a yellowish coloured essential oil that is made from the leaves of the plant ‘Melaleuca alternifolia’ which is found in Australia. It is a plant with many medicinal properties and has been used since ancient times for various issues. It does have a very strong smell but the benefits can easily beat the smell.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

So here is a list of some of the benefits of Tea tree oil:

1.  Acne: Tea tree oil is one of the best ingredient to reduce acne, it is known to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide. You can dilute tea tree oil with water or mix it with a carrier oil and then apply it on areas with acne. Otherwise, you can just buy products such as face wash or toners with tea tree oil in it.

2. Acne marks: Tea tree oil can not only remove acne but can also help with your acne marks. It won’t get rid of them completely but it would still work to an extent. You can dilute tea tree oil with some water and apply it on the affected areas. But the method that I like to use is, to mix two drops of tea tree oil with a pea sized amount of moisturiser and then apply it on my face. This would give an extra boost to the moisturiser and would help in removing those acne marks and spots.

3. Scars: Other than acne marks, tea tree oil is one of the most natural and efficient ways to treat scars. No wonder, in olden times’ people used tea tree oil to heal their cuts and wounds. Take few drops of tea tree oil and dilute it with water and apply it on the scar.

4. Itchy skin: Our skin itches mostly due to the presence of bacteria, so in order to stop itching the bacteria has to be killed. Tea tree oil is the best ingredient to kill bacteria, therefore dilute it with water or a carrier oil and apply it on the area where it itches or mix it with your moisturiser and apply it. You can also use body washes or lotions with tea tree oil. Or just add a few drops of tea tree oil daily in your bathing water.

5. Skin infections: Tea tree oil can cure so many skin infections such as warts, boils, chicken pox, Psoriasis and Eczema. For warts or boils, mix few drops of tea tree oil with water and apply it. For chicken pox, mix 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil with olive oil and apply it twice a day. For Psoriasis and Eczema, mix 1 teaspoon of coconut oil with 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil and apply it. The properties in tea tree oil will truly heal these infections and for skin infections, I would recommend you to use tea tree oil instead of products with tea tree oil.

6. Wrinkles: Tea tree oil is a magic product for young and supple skin. It has antioxidants which helps your skin remain healthy and its properties prevents spots, acnes and wrinkles. As I mentioned earlier, mix one or two drops of tea tree oil with your moisturiser. Or if you are making any home-made mask then just mix two or three drops of tea tree oil in it and apply it on your face. This would keep your skin healthy and young.

7. Hair growth and dry scalp: When you are giving yourself an oil massage with olive oil and coconut oil, add few drops of tea tree oil to get maximum benefits. It would help in hair growth and would treat dry scalp.

8. Dandruff: Other than acne, tea tree oil is also widely known to treat dandruff. Just like the moisturiser method, mix two to three drops of tea tree oil with your shampoo and wash your hair. Otherwise, you can use shampoos and conditioners with tea tree oil in it. When you are looking for a shampoo, try to look for the shampoos with 5% or less tea tree oil in it.

9. Nails: Tea tree oil can help in the removal of toe nail fungal. Just take pure tea tree oil and apply it on the nails which has toenail fungus and let it rest. Do this every day and you will see good results. While applying this, avoid the skin around the nail.

10. Others: Tea tree oil is antibacterial, hence it can treat cold. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil in a small pan of boiling water. Take a steam for 10 minutes and it would work to heal your cold. It can also help with athlete’s’ foot and it is an ingredient with anti-cancer properties.

To conclude, you need to only use a small amount of tea tree oil and for everything other than your nails its best to dilute or mix it with something. Carrier oils are oils which are used to dilute an essential oil. Some of the carrier oils are coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil and so on.

Precautions:

  • Tea tree oil should not be consumed, it is considered poisonous.
  • Do a patch test to ensure that you are not allergic to tea tree oil.
  • Do not use undiluted tea tree oil all over your face.
  • Avoid the area around your eyes or mouth
  • If you have severe acne or skin infections, consult a dermatologist before using tea tree oil.

Best brands of tea tree oil in India

These are the five brands of tea tree that I like and these are easily available online. These small bottles of magic can last a long time and help you. The prices mentioned below are standard prices but you can get a discount if you buy them online.

Apart from the famous The Body Shop Tea Tree oil, there is Fab India’s Tea Tree oil and a few other brands mentioned below which are quite good:

1. Aloe Veda Distil Aromatherapy Tea Tree Oil: Rs.260 for 10ml

2. Khadi Tea Tree Oil : Rs. 320 for 10ml (Buy HERE)

3. Aroma magic Tea Tree Oil: Rs.449 for 20ml (Buy HERE)

4. Soulflower Tea Tree Oil: Rs.450 for 15ml (Buy HERE)

5. Emami Aroma Miracle Tea Tree Oil: Rs.250 for 10ml (Buy HERE)

6. Aroma Treasures Tea Tree Oil: Rs.235/- for 10ml (Buy HERE)

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice detailed post Sucharitha

Do you use Tea Tree Oil? Which brand do you like?

All 12 The Body Shop India Matte Lip Liquid Review, Swatches

Liquid Lipsticks, Makeup, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, The Body Shop, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

All 12 The Body Shop India Matte Lip Liquid Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

The Body Shop launched their new makeup line, called Jacqueline’s signature line. It has cushion foundation (2 shades), 3 eyeshadow palettes and 12 matte lip liquid i.e. liquid lipsticks.

I swatched all of them for you guys..

Claims: Introducing this season’s hottest lip-color trend, Matte Lip Liquid. Our creamy Matte Lip Liquid provides intense color and a soft matte finish. The non-drying formula provides the perfect way to comfortably wear a bold matte lip this holiday season. Specially formulated to glide on effortlessly like a gloss and set with the rich creamy color and velvety touch of matte lipstick. Our liquid lipstick is long-lasting, lightweight and lusciously soft. And like all our cruelty-free makeup

MRP: Rs.695/- for 8ml

Shades Available: 12

  • Crete Carnation
  • Windsor Rose
  • Taipai Orchid
  • Nairobi Camellia
  • Paris Peony
  • Tokyo Lotus
  • Cali Gerbera
  • Goa Magnolia
  • Tahiti Hibiscus
  • Sydney Amaryllis
  • Sicily Iris
  • Mauritius Dahlia

It comes in the matching shade outer packaging, so the colors are easy to identify. It has a slanted tip applicator and easy to apply.

They have shade names of cities + flowers which is quite interesting. And they have tried to match a few shades with flowers like Orchid.

I love the fruity smell and it feels super light weight on the lips. It settles to a matte finish and is very, very comfortable. I would say this is the most comfortable liquid lipstick I have tried.

The formula reminds me of Miss Claire/NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams but these are lighter than that too. Pigmentation is good, and you need just one swipe of the deeper colors to get opaque coverage.

It doesn’t stay very long though and does not survive a complete meal. It is not completely transfer proof too. Without eating or drinking, it would stay 4-5 hours and would go away completely with food. It doesn’t leave any tint or stain behind, it goes away completely but it very easy to reapply.

But it doesn’t accentuate any dryness or lines on lips. If you love matte lipsticks but want something comfortable and non-drying, these are made for you!

I love that they have different range of shades from pinks to nudes to even berry. I would have liked more browns and berries though, I wish they add more shades in this range soon.

I picked Goa Magnolia and Tahiti Hibiscus. Also liked Mauritius Dahlia and Nairobi Camellia.

I like the price point of 695 and also the quantity is 8ml, which is more than the usual 5-6 ml in liquid lipsticks. I do recommend these!

Have you tried the new Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid?

New Whisper #UltraSoft Event & Review

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New Whisper #UltraSoft Event & Review

Hi guys,

I attended the launch of Whisper Ultra Soft last week and I even used it last week. Actually, the very same day 😀

I had my date around the event and I had to use it right after the event and thankfully we got the new Whisper Ultra Soft in our PR bag.

Radhika Apte and Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, a renowned gynecologist were present for the event and they both talked about how important it is for a girl to be comfortable during her periods and it should be like any other day for her. Also we should be comfortable talking about it and not consider it as a taboo.

Dr. Nandita also spoke about menstrual hygiene and how it is very important. We should take care of basic things like washing the vagina properly, not using harsh soap and keeping it dry. Changing the pads regularly every 4-5 hours and cleaning the vagina and the surrounding area well.

 

[fbvideo link=”https://www.facebook.com/YouGoGirlIndia/videos/1393407764013868/” width=”700″ height=”500″ onlyvideo=”1″]

 

We also saw a demo during the event where the new Whisper Ultra Soft and another pad was compared. Both had liquids poured onto them and on squeezing, the other pad leaked out all the liquid while nothing came out of the Whisper Ultra Soft, not even a drop. It takes in all the flow and converts it into a gel immediately.

The ‘New Whisper Ultra Soft’ offers superior comfort that feels 2x softer on skin while absorbing wetness hour after hour.

I have used the other green Whisper before and was only using that untill now. But this new Ultra Soft absorbs everything and leaves the top layer completely dry, something I have not experienced even with the old Whisper. Also after my periods get over, I get rashes and itching because of the pads which last 1-2 days. That happens each time and with all the different pads I have tried till date. I was so glad this new Whisper Ultra Soft didn’t give me any rashes or itchiness.

The doctor had mentioned the new Whisper Ultra Soft is meant for sensitive skin and yes, it surely is. These are also very thin and almost half the size in width compared to their previous one. I have to say, Whisper Ultra Soft are the most comfortable pads I have used till now.

I was using them throughout my periods last week. Next day after this event, I had 3 back to back events and I was out from morning 11 to 8 at night. I didn’t feel uncomfortable at any moment, thanks to the new Whisper. I did carry one along in my bag, and changed it in between.

It’s a pack of 7 pads and priced at Rs.64/-. I love the whole pink and white packaging too. I highly recommend trying them, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Have you tried the new Whisper Ultra Soft yet?

Huge Makeup Geek Haul: How to Buy, Prices, Shipping, etc.

Blush, Contouring, Eye Liners, Eye Makeup, Eye Pencils, Eyeshadows, Hauls, Makeup Geek, Shopping, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Huge Makeup Geek Haul: How to Buy, Prices, Shipping, etc.

Hi guys,

So I did this huge Makeup Geek Haul a few months back and was caught up with something or the other and couldn’t post this. I had to click pictures, so I didn’t use anything and I was dying to use them!

Finally I got around clicking pics and doing this post. I would be doing another post for swatches as there are way too many pictures in this post already.

I am mentioning a detailed description of each product, prices, how to buy, etc. in this post.

Starting with the Full Spectrum Eyeliner Pencils..

Claims: Define your line. Ultra creamy and richly pigmented, Makeup Geek Full Spectrum Eye Liner Pencils apply effortlessly to create a vibrant display of color on the lids. Choose from a full spectrum of color—available in 10 dynamic shades.

  • All our Pencils are Cruelty Free — we do not test our products on animals
  • Paraben Free
  • Pencil product weight is 1.20 g / 0.042 oz

Price: $9 each (Buy HERE)

I have the shades Ocean, Mint and Orchid which are very unique and beautiful! Just pop this on your lower lashline when you don’t feel like doing much and you will still stand out. I highly recommend getting the Nude one too for the waterline.

They come with a matching body and are easy to identify. They need to be sharpened though.

Best part about Makeup Geek website is they have very good swatches of all their products on different skin tones.

Coming to eye shadows which is Makeup Geek’s best selling product till date..

Claims: 

  • These are all highly-pigmented – just check out the swatches!
  • Half the price of high end shadows without sacrificing quality
  • These pans can be placed in empty palettes such as Z-Palettes.
  • Eyeshadow pan weight is 1.8G / 0.064 oz
  • With a separate palette, you can build your own custom palettes (and save the extra cost and the plastic that eyeshadow compacts bring)
  • All our shadows are cruelty-free — we do not test our products on animals
  • These eyeshadows are Paraben-Free

Price: $6 each (Buy HERE)

Makeup Geek eye shadows are super affordable and have amazing quality! Easily comparable to MAC, Anastasia, etc. which are very highly priced. They have all the shades possible and you will find all MAC eye shadow dupes in Makeup Geek. I would anyday recommend getting these over a high end brand.

If you are just starting out with makeup/eye shadows, I have bought these basic nine shades which everyone should have in their vanity. So if you are confused and don’t know which shades to pick, go for these nine 🙂 I have done a lot of research before zeroing on these shades, so you can trust me.

I got the shades..

Creme Brulee
Cocoa Bear
Shimma Shimma
Moondust
Cosmopolitan
Bitten
Corrupt
Frappe
Mocha

I also picked a few foiled shadows. If you already have all basic ones and are looking for something fancy or need 1-2 foiled to work along with the basics, I would recommend these.

Claims: With these rich and intensely-hued shades, the new Makeup Geek Foiled Eyeshadows go beyond your standard line of cosmetics, introducing you to a new and powerful cosmetic experience. This cutting-edge formula offers a creamy texture that is a hybrid between a powder shadow and a cream shadow that is on a level of its own. The intense pigmentation combined with an opaque, metallic finish make these shadows a dream to work with. These can be applied effortlessly in just one swipe with no primer required! Our lineup includes a diverse array of rich colors and a smooth silky formula that we believe help elevate pressed eye shadows to the next level of exceptional quality.

  • These are all highly-pigmented – just check out the swatches!
  • These pans can be placed in empty palettes such as Z-Palettes.
  • Eyeshadow pan weight is 1.8G / 0.064 oz
  • With a separate palette, you can build your own custom palettes
  • All our shadows are cruelty-free — we do not test our products on animals
  • These shadows are Talc and Paraben-Free

Price: $10 each (Buy HERE)

I picked..

In The Spotlight
Grandstand
Starry Eyed
Magic Act
Day Dreamer
Ritzy

Makeup Geek also has pretty good blushes and contour powders, again all in pans. You can pick up the pans and an empty palette and make your own eyeshadows/blush/contour complete eye and face palette.

They also come in compact individually. In compact they are priced at $15 and the pans are priced at $10.

Claims: Get cheeky! Soft and subtle to bright and bold, Makeup Geek Blushes blend effortlessly into the skin to add the perfect dose of radiance to your cheeks. Their finely milled powder guarantees a smooth, buttery feel and a flawless application, every time. Rich pigmentation combined with a fade-resistant formula offers buildable, long-lasting color. This Talc-free formula is also great for sensitive skin

  • These are all highly-pigmented – just check out the swatches!
  • Half the price of high end blushes without sacrificing quality
  • Blush pan weight is 4.25G / 0.15 oz
  • All our blushes are cruelty-free — we do not test our products on animals
  • These blushes are Talc and Paraben-Free
  • Made in the USA

Price: $10 each (Buy HERE)

I picked Romance and Spellbound

All Makeup Geek powder products are majorly talc free and hence they are more creamy and pigmented and don’t give crazy fall outs or feel patchy.

Coming to the contour powders, many people contour with a bronzer which is warm toned and that is fundamentally wrong. Though you can make it work, there are no rules. But a warm toned darker powder will warm up and bronze the skin for a sun kissed look. For contouring or creating a shadow or cutting the face as pro call it, you need a cool toned powder which is slightly ashy or grey. Not too much or it would look muddy. There is a very thin line in between and very few brands and products get it right.

Makeup Geek makes both warm and cool toned powders for all different skin tones, so you can pick whatever suits you best.

Claims: Super soft and buttery smooth, Makeup Geek Contour Powders blend like a dream and have been specifically designed to accommodate skin tone extremes and everything in between. From the lightest of light, to the deepest of deep, we have your shade. Choose from a complete lineup of 8 unique shades—four with warm undertones and four with cool undertones.

  • These are all highly-pigmented – just check out the swatches!
  • These contours are Talc and Paraben-Free – great for sensitive skin!
  • Vegan
  • All our contours are cruelty-free — we do not test our products on animals
  • Contour pan weight is 4.25 g / 0.15 oz
  • Made in the USA

Price: $10 each (Buy HERE)

Both the blushes and contour pans are 4.25g which is huge and enough for a lifetime even if you use them daily!

I got Complicated and Infidelity.

And finally I have some sparklers in the shades Zodiac, Solstice and Stargazer

Claims: 

  • A sparkle beyond compare, Makeup Geek Sparklers go where no cosmetics company has gone before! Loose, reflective particles create a glitter-like effect that is out of this world.
  • For maximum impact, Sparklers are best applied with an eye-safe cosmetics adhesive. A galaxy of gorgeousness awaits—light up your universe with Makeup Geek Sparklers!
  • Completely Eye-Safe: Uses Reflects to create a Glitter effect
  • Jars fill weight is 4G / 0.14 oz
  • All our Sparklers are cruelty-free — we do not test our products on animals
  • They are also Talc and Paraben-Free

Price: $10 each

Now many of you had questions related to shipping and customs. Makeup Geek ships worldwide and they use either Mail Service i.e. normal post and UPS i.e. Expedited and more expensive. I opted for Mail Service and it took me almost 2 months to receive it. Mail Service cost $8 to $12-13 depending on the weight and UPS costs $40-41.

I had to pay customs of Rs.250-300 which is pretty reasonable for so much stuff. Again if you order less, you might not have to. Customs duty cannot be predicted though.

I would highly recommend shopping from Makeup Geek. It’s a paradise for eye makeup lovers especially. All Makeup Geek products are top notch in quality and they keep adding new shades and new products. They have recently launched highlighters which are again fabulous!

I will do swatches of all these in a separate blog post, as it would be too image heavy.

P.S: Happy Holi! This is my kind of Holi 😉

Have you tried anything from Makeup Geek? Your favourites?

March 2017 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

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March 2017 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got the March My Envy Box today, and after the previous Feb box, I was hoping they would step up their game and they did!

The theme for this month is ‘Relax. Renew. Refresh’. I quite liked the outer box packaging too.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Products I got:

  • Essence Lip Liner – Full size – Rs.129/- (1g)
  • Neemli Coffee & Cocoa Body Wrap- Full size- Rs.550/- (75g)
  • Wikka Beauty Potion- Full size- Rs.700/- (15g)
  • Eyova Hair Oil- Full size- Rs.590/- (50ml)
  • All Good Scents Rose & Jasmine- 2ml vials
  • Gardner Street Tea Glow- 3 sachets

I am so glad they have added 4 full sized products this time. And also all 6 products are an interesting mix from tea to perfume to body wrap and one makeup product.

Essence lip liners would be in red, nude and pink. I got the red one and I don’t mind. It would work with all red lipsticks.

Neemli makes very good body products and this is a full sized body wrap, quite excited to try this one.

Wikka has aromatherapy products and this is a face moisturizer with Aloe vera, Avocado and Patchouli and Chamomile essential oil, I would be trying this tom onwards. Smells really good!

All Good Scents makes good perfumes, I wish they had included small 5ml/10ml bottles. Even one 10ml would do instead of 2 small vials. Considering they are not pricey, slightly bigger samples are better.

Lastly we have the Eyova Hair oil, this has egg yolk extracts and I have heard mixed reviews about this one. Some love it and some hate it. I am not sure if I will use this as I am a vegetarian, also the egg smell is pretty strong of this one. I might give it a try or give it to a friend.

Overall the box has products of value above Rs.2000/- and I am pretty happy with everything. Highly recommend this month’s box 🙂

What did you get in March My Envy Box?

Sheet Masks 101: 5 On-The-Go Sheet Masks You NEED to Carry in Your Bag

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Sheet Masks 101: 5 On-The-Go Sheet Masks You NEED to Carry in Your Bag

By Ankita

Hola Chica Bonitas

I hope all my beautiful ladies are doing really good. I was in the mood for some spa yesterday. Without wasting any time I quickly went ahead and checked the rate charts on various websites. Then, one look at my wallet and I was like ‘meh..may be next month’. Trust me, this is the story of every month.

However, I am one of those ‘never-say- never’, who is constantly in search of a decent ‘jugaad’. Believe me what I found out was more than a ‘jugaad’

What if, I told you, you could have your very own spa day, at less than half the price….and of course at the comfort of your home? Yes, mi amigos, for the next 4 minutes, I will be rambling about sheet masks and I promise, by the end of it you will thank god for bringing these little babies to the world.

What are Sheet Masks?

Sheet masks are basically fabrics cut into the shape of a face, soaked in potent serums, to give you the maximum benefit. The sheets can be made up of a variety of safe materials including papers, fibres or gel even! They come in many variants for different skin types and conditions.

Sheet Mask Vs Regular face pack

Why would you choose a sheet mask at all? Well for starters they are convenient to use, non-messy, travel-friendly and not to forget, most importantly, they are the mother load of nutrients. As opposed to a face pack that might dry out your skin sheet masks provide the right amount of moisturization your skin needs.

Right way to use a sheet mask

Easy as pie!!

– cleanse

– tone

-take the mask out of the packet and adjust it on your face

-keep it on for a good 20 minutes

-take it off and DO NOT WASH

-pat the product into the skin and finally moisturize

Voila!! We are good to go!

How often can I use a sheet mask?

There are no set rules regarding the frequency of use. Some people even vouch for, using it every day. However, you can start by using it 1-2 times a week.

My obsession with sheet masks started a few months back and guess what! After a lot of trying and testing, I have put together the Oscar winners of sheet masks just for my gal pals, so that you look gorgeous, even on the go.

Category 1: The fairest of them all

The Face Shop Bio-Cell Brightening Face Mask

This mask works as an elixir for dull skin. As mentioned on their website these are special type of sheets made out of biocellulose, the Face Mask by Faceshop gets adhered to skin flawlessly and delivers full nutrition to the skin. It has glutathione, which works wonder towards skin brightening.

The effect: smooth, glowing and bright skin. Why wait to be the evil queen from Snow White! I mean she was gorgeous right?

MRP: Rs.150/- (Buy HERE for 120)

Category 2: Age is just another number

Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Pomegranate

Ever wondered the secret behind a vampire’s ageless skin? No, it’s not blood. That will be pomegranate juice. Power packed with real pomegranate essence, this mask is sure to take away years off your skin. This is a triple layered sheet mask that fits tightly over the skin and helps it stay hydrated for an extended period. You can now say good bye to wrinkles and sagging skin. Hello, beautifully radiant soft skin.

MRP: Rs.100 (Buy HERE)

Category 3: Bad day, be gone!!!

Anatomicals Botanical Purifying Tea Tree Cloth Face Mask

Bad hair days are very common. But bad skin days? They are horrible. Worry not, Anatomicals bring you the best of skincare for problematic skin with their Purifying Tea Tree Cloth Face Mask. One simple equation, Tea tree + Aloe Vera = unmatched radiance and clear skin

Blackheads? Whiteheads? Off with their heads!! A must have for oily skinned beauties

MRP: Rs.299/- (Buy HERE)

Category 4: Dry and Dead? Try this

Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Shea Butter

Although I have never struggled with a dry skin issue, but, watching some of my friends struggling to get that ‘malai’ stick to their faces made me think..hmmm I gotta save their day and now they swear by it!!! Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask – Shea Butter sheet masks provide just the right amount of moisture to give that baby bounce to your face. Soft shea butter deeply hydrates dry skin from within giving you that goddess glow. This, my beauties, is a Holy Grail product for dry skin.

MRP: Rs.100/-

Category 5: Girls just wanna have fun!!

MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask

I have saved the best for the last. Admit it, you rarely get time for that spa session or salon treatment your skin totally deserves, before a party. But that’s no excuse, not to look stunning!

MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask have a hoard of good ingredients like Argan Oil,Orange Peel Oil, Super Fruit Extracts, Rice Extract and Honey to energize, hydrate, brighten and prime your skin for a flawless and velvety-smooth finish. Pick one of these and get your diva on.

MRP: Rs.460/- (Buy HERE)

Sheet Masks take skin care to a whole new level. With almost negligible side effects, these are selling like hot cakes in the market. Not to mention, they do not burn a whole in your pocket. Using sheet masks religiously would definitely show visible results within a matter of months. Have these cute little ‘power banks’ to recharge your skin, in your bags and I can guarantee you, they will be your next Valentine.

Any comments, (compliments ;-)), views and suggestions are always welcome. Stay gorgeous and stay blessed 🙂

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice way of explaining and I loved all 5 you picked.

Do you use sheet masks? Which is your favourite?

5 Make-up Must Haves For The ‘Summer Goddess’ Look

Lifestyle, Makeup, Women, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

5 Make-up Must Haves For The ‘Summer Goddess’ Look

By Ankita

Hello everyone,

I was watching Gods of Egypt a couple of months back and it did not take me long before I got totally obsessed with Élodie Yung’s ‘Hathor’ look in the movie. Sporting slight tan-ish bronze look, she looked absolutely stunning! So, I began my own little research ‘how to get that bronze goddess glow’, but, to be frank, it was a little over the top in real life.

It wasn’t until a few days back, that I hit the gold! So here I am with 5 makeup absolutes to get the bronze gold, goddess of the sands look with affordable drugstore products.

For the convenience of my readers, I have made a few product suggestions that are quite easily available and are a perfect dupe for high-end drugstore items, with a few application tips to nail it.

Want to get that sun-kissed look without actually getting out in the sun? Stay tuned till the end 🙂

Face It!!

1. Liquid Illuminators

Liquid Illuminators are a rage this season. They give you that bronzy-under the skin glow that looks almost effortless.

Application Tip: Take a pea-sized amount on your stippling brush and stipple it all over your face with light hands.

What I recommend

Revlon Photoready Skinlights Face Illuminator in the shade Bare Lights is perfect for this look. It imparts a decent glow to the face without going overboard.

Priced at: 995 INR

2. Flesh toned Concealer

Remember girls, the focus of this look is on bringing your natural facial highlights and features. So it is better to stay away from concealers that are way too lighter than your skin tone. The idea here is to get a flawless base.

Application Tip: Take your concealer and dot it on areas that need a bit of touch-up. Say for example, under the eyes, around the mouth and any other blemished area. Lightly dab it with your ring finger first and then blend it with a beauty blender.

What I recommend

L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD is my absolute favourite when it comes to concealing. It doesn’t crease at all and blends like a dream. The brush tip applicator lets you control the amount of product coming out of the tube. Best thing, they have a shade for every skin tone, but medium beige works just fine for me.

Priced at: 535 INR

3. Highlight

Now comes the most important part of this look, ‘The Highlight’. A champagne gold colour highlighter would give you that goddess glow without making it too dramatic.

Application Tip: Take a small amount of highlighter and brush it with the lightest hands on all high points of your face including cheekbones, forehead, bridge of the nose, cupids bow, inner corners of eyes and a little on your collar bone.

What I recommend

Makeup Revolution Pro Highlighter – Illuminate has just the right amount of light reflecting particles to light up your face, never making it look like a disco ball. It has beautiful gold champagne colour and is sure to make some heads turn when you put it on.

Priced at: 725 INR

4. The eyes have it all

Application: Keep the eyes neat and clean with a rose-gold eye shadow all over the lid and a dark brown kohl on the upper lash line, lightly smudged and slightly winged to give that doe-y eyed appearance.

What I recommend

– Eye Shadow: Faces Glam on Color Perfect eye shadow Quad Captive

This palette has the four most beautiful colours with rosy gold and bronze undertones and is a must for all those looking for a subtly shimmer based eye shadow palate. The colour payoff is excellent, with least fall out.

Priced at : 599 INR

– Kohl: Lakme Eyeconic Brown Kajal

A dark brown kohl pencil would definitely compliment the entire look instead a black one. Lakme Iconic Brown Kajal glides on smoothly to give you that intense sensual gaze that is sure to steal many hearts.

Priced at: 275 INR

Now pucker up

5. Lip Gloss

Application: Nothing more sensual than a nude lip. Dab your beauty blender with a little bit of concealer/foundation on your lips and top it off with a nude pink lip gloss just on the centre of your lips.

What I recommend

Colorbar True Gloss Lip-gloss Natural Tan ( 550 INR)

This look is very much wearable and would suit almost all skin tones. As Indians, we are blessed with a beautiful yellow-olive undertone. So why not flaunt it. Try this look and do let me know your thoughts and experience.

Editor’s Note: These are the perfect products for the ‘glow’ in summers 😀 Nice compilation Ankita, welcome to NLM

Do you like the summer goddess glowy look?

Benefits of Papaya for Skin and Hair

DIY, Hair Care, Home Remedies, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Benefits of Papaya for Skin and Hair

By Sanchita

Papaya is called the “The Fruit of the Angels” and it is a native to the tropical areas of Central America and Southern Mexico. Today, it is a popular fruit and often known as ‘papita’ in Hindi.

This amazing fruit is enriched in vitamins A, C, E and K and has various other antioxidant properties. Consuming the fruit will not only give you amazing skin and hair but it has various beauty benefits as well. It is applied on the skin and hair for natural beauty.

The various benefits and uses of Papaya for Skin are as follows –

Removal of sun tan – This is a common problem for summer. Our skin is prone to tanning and looks dull. The papaya has vitamins A and C in abundance along with a enzyme called ‘papain’. This helps to lighten the complexion, removing sun tan and dark spots with the passage of time. Simply make a thick paste of papaya and add honey and turmeric to it. Apply this face pack every day in a week and see how it improves the skin.

Skin hydration – Papaya is rich in water content and has various other elements as well which helps to keep the skin soft, smooth and moisturized. The hydration is smooth and will not clog the pores or make the skin look oily. Simply, blend ½ cup of ripe papaya into a fine paste, add honey and apply evenly on skin. Wash off after 20-25mins.

Anti-ageing – Papaya is anti-ageing in nature. It has vitamins C and E to rejuvenate the skin and the papaya skin has various enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. As a result, the age spots and wrinkles are prevented and removed. It also contains Retin-A which help reduce the signs of aging. Overall, you get younger looking skin with bright and radiant skin tone. Mash ½ cup of overripe papaya, add honey and yogurt and apply as a face mask. Wash off after 20-25 mins. You can also rub the skin of papaya for better results.

Prevention of acne and pimples – Papaya has an enzyme called papain that has natural skin- cleansing properties, which helps to get rid of clogged pores and greasiness. The exfoliating effect helps in preventing blackheads. The enzyme helps in preventing acne and improving the skin as well. It also helps to soothe the inflamed skin. Simply, apply a thin layer of ripe papaya pulp as face mask and leave on for 20mins. Wash off with cold water and pat the skin dry.

Brighten complexion and removal of dark spots – This is one of the most effective beauty benefits of papaya. The papain helps to lighten the dark spots, giving a bright and radiant complexion. It is known that papaya contains natural bleaching properties. The vitamin C has anti-oxidant properties and also helps in clearing the skin of impurities. Rub a fleshy part of ripe papaya every alternative days and wash off with cold water.

The various benefits and uses of Papaya for Hair are as follows –

Soft and healthy hair – The papaya is also very helpful for lustrous, healthy hair. It is enriched in several minerals, vitamins and enzymes that can improve hair growth and strength. Along with that, it will also help to thicken the hair and the protein in papaya reduces split ends. To prepare a papaya hair mask, blend a ripe papaya according to your hair length and mix with olive oil or almond oil. Apply this all over the hair, from root to tip and keep it for 30-40mins. Wash off with mild shampoo.

Reduces dandruff – Papaya helps in reducing dandruff and prevents dry scalp. It has various antifungal properties. Even the seeds of papaya prevents fungal infection. Blend ½ papaya with the seeds intact and apply the paste generously on the scalp. Leave it on for one hour and then shampoo as usual.

Caution –

  • Always do a patch test before using it on skin and hair.
  • Papaya can cause allergic reactions in some people, which might due to papain or the latex.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using excessive papaya.

Editor’s Note: Loved the DIY and tips Sanchita

Do you use papaya for your skin and hair?

Banjara’s #MeAndNature: Pure Nature Gives You Everlasting Beauty

Banjara's, Hair Care, Skin18, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Banjara’s #MeAndNature: Pure Nature Gives You Everlasting Beauty

Hi guys,

So today’s post is something different. I am talking about this brand called Banjara’s. I came across this video and loved the message it had.

We all know nature works the best for all kinds of remedies be it skin/hair/body, you name it and nature has it. Ayurveda has lakhs of recipes for any disease/problem a human can have. Nature can solve it all, yet we get distracted and fall for all sorts of chemical products because of marketing.

All Banjara’s products have natural ingredients in all of their products. I have tried so many different face masks from them and they feel exactly like DIY Face Masks at home. Plus they are so affordable and quick.

Banjara’s caters to the needs of the entire family, from the Brazilian Black Hair Dye for parents, to Samvridhi hair oil for our luscious, dark hair, and of course the daily essential Multani mitti + Orange face wash. The Vitamin C in Orange will brighten the skin while the multani mitti will control the excess oil. And lastly the Multani Mitti + Papaya Face Pack which again will help control excess oil and papaya helps in fading spots and scars and gives an even toned skin. All these products can be used by everyone in the family and there are so many more products by Banjara’s, it caters to every skin/hair need.

Banjara’s is associated with nature and is all natural and herbal without the unnecessary added chemicals. It is ‘beauty without any harmful effects’, which is a very important criteria especially when it comes to choosing personal care products.

As you can see in this video, Banjara’s is not only all natural, it also reflects Banjara’s love for nature. It is also reflected in the purity, quality and efficacy of all Banjara’s products. I absolutely loved the video and the ending message ‘If we take of nature’s beauty, nature will take care of us‘ which is so true! And something we all need to do in our lives each day.

Banjara’s brand is listed under PETA’s cruelty-free companies as the products are not tested on animals and Banjara’s do not use any animal ingredients in any of their products. Of course, another added advantage.

You can try these products for yourself as Banjara’s is giving out free samples. You just have to register here www.banjaras.co.in and they would be delivered to you. Isn’t that cool?!

Let me know what you think of it in the comments below 🙂