Tag Archives: Indian makeup and beauty blog

Benefits of Shaving & How to Shave, Gillette Venus India

Shaving vs. Other Methods of Hair Removal

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Shaving vs. Other Methods of Hair Removal

Hi guys,

If you have been following my blog since quite some time now, you know how I am a fan of shaving and I have done quite a few posts on the correct method of shaving and on Gillette Venus razor in particular. I absolutely love it and I feel it’s one of the best razors in India currently.

A lot of you ask me why shaving, why not waxing or hair removal creams or any other method. So today I am discussing the pros and cons of all methods of hair removal and why I prefer shaving against all of those.

Shaving vs. Waxing

The most common question and the most frequently asked. The only advantage of waxing is you need to do it once in a month as the hair is uprooted from the roots and it takes time to grow back. And that also is the only disadvantage of shaving that it needs to be done once in 5-6 days. But other than this, everything else in favour of shaving. Shaving can be done anytime, anywhere and you don’t need any appointment at salon or anyone’s help in shaving. It is also much more economical and the main thing is shaving is painless! Waxing is very painful, the heat plus the pulling of hair from the roots is not easy to bear. Especially if you have sensitive skin like me, I get huge red bumps and they stay for 2 days and itch a lot! The white hair follicles from the roots come out from the pores of my skin each time and if I don’t use an astringent to close my pores, I get pus filled painful bumps from waxing and epilating. I am so thankful to be away from all that, shaving has literally changed my life (skin!)

Shaving vs. Epilating

Now the 2nd advantage of shaving was it can be done anytime, anywhere and on your own. Same goes for epilation. But the same disadvantage of uprooting hair from the roots applied to epilating too. It is again very painful and you have to do one area at a time, hence it is time consuming plus epilator covers less area and you have to bear the pain for a much longer time. I get red bumps and itchiness with epilating too, thanks to my sensitive skin. I have hardly epilated a few times in my life and it has been painful. It takes a lot of time for your body and skin to get used to epilation.

Shaving vs. Hair Removal Creams

Hair Removal creams seem like a convenient option on the face of it, but they are the worst in my opinion. I couldn’t wax due to my sensitive skin for almost 2-3 years and I used hair removal creams as I had not started shaving then. This was years ago when I was in college. I still repent that decision, the chemicals in hair removal creams are not very good for the skin and they also darken the skin. Again it’s temporary and the hair grows back in 5-6 days and you have to keep on using those creams, in turn harming the skin.

Shaving vs. Laser

Now laser is permanent and we all would love the permanent option. But it is laser hair reduction and not laser hair removal. Your hair don’t stop growing at all, they just reduce in number plus the growth process is slower. Biggest disadvantage, laser is super expensive! And you need 6-8 minimum laser sessions plus lifetime maintenance sessions. Each session should have a gap of at least a month and 2 months towards the end sessions for the hair to grow. So again it’s time consuming. Also it is painful too, as each hair follicle is burnt with the laser light.

Biggest advantage of shaving compared to all of these methods of hair removal is, it is painless! Also it is the most economical, one razor lasts you forever, you just need to buy new cartridges.

So if you compare all methods of hair removal in a crux, shaving wins hands down! Currently I have got a fracture on my right leg and I can’t go anywhere. I can’t have hairy legs as I have to show my legs to the doctors for swelling, etc. all the time and also I am pretty much in shorts as it’s more convenient and there are no chances of tripping. My Gillette Venus razor has been so helpful in this time, I have only been shaving as usual.

You can buy the Gillette Venus All in One Pack HERE which has a razor, changeable cartridges and the Satin Care Shaving Gel.

What do you feel about shaving?

ColourPop Matte X Lippie Stix Poppin Review, Swatches

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ColourPop Matte X Lippie Stix Poppin Review, Swatches

By Saniya

Hello NLM Squad,

This is my very first post on New-Love Makeup. Being from an Engineering background never thought I would be doing a Review on Makeup & Beauty Products LOL. But thanks to my latest addiction for Makeup and Skin Care Products which landed me here. Thank you NLM for being an Ocean for Makeup and Beauty Lovers like me 🙂 I am really excited to share my thoughts on this super cute baby which I got during my ColourPop Haul from the US. So without further ado let’s get into the review.

Price: 5$

Availability: ColourPopCosmetics.com , beautybuyindia.com and some Instagram Stores [Beware of the fakes though]

Product Claims for this Shade: If you need us we’ll be poppin bottles in this vibrant raspberry .

Shades Available: ColourPop keeps on adding new shades to their Lippie Stix Collection and I bet each one of us would definitely have something or the other to choose from their numerous shade range.

Packaging: ColourPop is famous all over the social media for their lovely white packaging. The lippie stix comes in a white cardboard box with the brand’s website and address specified and the shade is mentioned on the bottom of the box as well as at the bottom of the lipstick. The packaging is sturdy and travel friendly.

You just need to twist the lipstick so that the product slides upwards and becomes available for application. It has a white cap which clicks when shut.

Texture: The texture of these lippie stix is velvety matte, but at the same time it feels quite smooth and soft during application.

Shade and Pigmentation: Intensely pigmented, with a great raspberry pink shade, these lippie stix have won my heart as far as pigmentation is concerned. Just one swipe is all you need.

My Thoughts:

The only thing that made me by these lippie stix was the hype over the entire social media. I love the packaging and the pigmentation, but other than that these did not impress me. The shade being bold would be great for festive or party looks.They are easy for application and the edgy design can be used to outline the lips and the flatter end be used to fill in the lips. This shade stains, bleeds and transfers a lot.

Staying power is around 3-4 hours without any munching, but if you are like me who like to eat and simultaneously does not like when a lipstick transfers to coffee mugs, spoon, etc while eating I would not recommend this. Also the matte formula of the lippie stix settles into fine lines and becomes really difficult for removal.

Pros:

  • Great Packaging.
  • Highly pigmented.
  • Affordable.
  • Sleek & Travel friendly design.
  • Cruelty free.
  • Numerous shades to pick from
  • Velvety matte formula
  • Super comfortable on the lips

Cons:

  • Availability in India.
  • Settles into fine lines.
  • Not transfer proof
  • Oil based makeup remover is required for removal.

Overall Thoughts: For the price, packaging and pigmentation these lippie stix are a great buy. I would personally not buy these again because I hate when a lipstick stays on the lips less and stains on every other thing else more.

Rating : 3.5/5

Editor’s Note: That’s a pretty shade. I personally love the Matte X formula as its matte yet non drying and super comfortable. Plus super pigmented. Nice review Saniya, welcome to NLM 🙂

Have you tried Colourpop Matte X Lippie Stix? Which is your favourite shade?

Jan 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

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Jan 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I know I am a little late this time in the unboxing of Fab Bag. I am at my parents’ place and the Fab Bag gets delivered at my place and from there I got it here today.

The theme this month is ‘Bring It On’. The bag is a bright pink clutch, it’s nice to travel along with and it fits many things in.

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

Products I got:

  • Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon in Mary Poppins (Full size- Rs.799/-)
  • O3+ Derma Fresh Mask – 50g (Full size- Rs.425/-)
  • MCaffeine Neem Caffeine Face wash (50ml) – Full size Rs.449/- for 150ml
  • The Nature’s Co. Fucus Anti-Ageing Cream (20ml)- Full size Rs.895/- for 50ml
  • Wella EIMI Perfect Me BB Lotion (6ml)- Full size Rs.900/- for 100ml

I had an option to choose one makeup product and Sugar Matte Lip Crayons were also a part of those options. I was confused between Mary Poppins and Rose Dawson and didn’t have both, but finally went with Mary Poppins as I have many nudes and this is a very unique bright pink.

Also liking the full size face mask, would be trying it out right now. Rest three products are deluxe sized samples. The face wash looks decent, not very happy with the anti-ageing cream, I would have liked a scrub or day/night cream.

I have the full size bottle of the Wella Perfect Me BB Lotion and it’s really good! The 6ml sachet should be worth Rs.54/- but the sachet mentions Rs.150/- which is more than 3 times the value.

Overall the value of all the products comes to around Rs. 1790/- I am happy with the lipstick and face mask. I love the Wella BB Lotion and would be carrying this sachet the next time I travel. I am not sure about the face wash and anti-ageing cream but I don’t mind trying those.

Also got a special discount coupon from Housejoy, INR 500 off on beauty services worth INR 999 and above.

The bag is pretty decent, not bad. Definitely worth buying.

What did you get in your Jan’17 Fab Bag?

7 Times Katrina Kaif Scorched the Screen With Her Abs

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7 Times Katrina Kaif Scorched the Screen With Her Abs

By Nidhal

I remember the first time I heard of abs was in 2009.Om Shanti Om starring SRK and Deepika Padukone was about to hit the theatres. Promotions of the flick were inescapable. The star cast was practically everywhere- on each and every TV show, radio show, newspapers and internet. And adding to the hysteria was SRK’s dance number ‘Dard-E- Disco’ which had him flaunt his six-pack abs.

The flick released amidst a lot of fanfare and hue and cry (remember the Manoj Kumar versus Farah/SRK controversy?). The rest is history. We know how it set cash registers ringing at the Box Office. A year or two later, Aamir Khan came with his 8-pack abs in Ghajni and then, lead me into believing that abs are men’s domain.

But one day, Katrina Kaif happened and bwoy, her abs got me smitten the way no male actor’s did 🙂 So, here is to this statuesque lady’s well-toned abs – 7 times Katrina Kaif scorched the screen with her abs.

1. AT THE IPL’S OPENING CEREMONY- The ninth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off with a star-studded opening ceremony in 2016. With international names such as Chris Brown and Major Lazer performing alongside Bollywood A-listers, all what grabbed the maximum limelight was Katrina’s well-toned abs as she danced energetically. In fact, Ranveer Singh was compelled to mouth,” Give it up for Katrina’s abs”. Well, appositely said, Ranveer.

2. WHEN ON THE RAMP FOR MANISH MALHOTRA’S FASHION SHOW- B-town hot-property Aditya Roy Kapoor and Katrina Kaif were the perfect show stoppers for designer Manish Malhotra, who launched his collection ‘The Regal Threads’ in January. Walking the ramp in a silver Manish Malhotra lehenga, Katrina swept us off our feet with her perfect abs.

3. ON THE COVER OF GQ INDIA- Setting temperatures soaring with her abs making a no-holds barred appearance on the cover of GQ India, Katrina is a sight to behold (and desire)!

4. IN ‘EK THA TIGER’S’ SONG ‘MASHA-ALLAH’- As she swayed to the tunes of ‘Mashallah’ in the Salman Kahn-starrer Ek Tha Tiger in 2013, Katrina’s abs compel you to slobber.

5. IN ‘CHIKNI CHAMELI’- An out-and- out desi item number as it was, Chikni Chameli not only gave us the hook step of the year but also a chance to feast our eyes to this damsel’s chiselled abs.

6. IN ‘TEES MAAR KHAN’- Rome was not built in a day and so can be said about Kat’s abs which here, are in the process of becoming the weapons of mass destruction that they have turned out to be now. Katrina’s abs look sultry in this dance number from Tees Maar Khan.

7. IN ‘KALA CHASHMA’ FROM BAAR BAAR DEKHO- And here comes the song that has given us a full-blown no-holds barred view of this sultry lass’ chiselled abs that have overshadowed everything in the frame point blank. You have to admit it, you got ‘body goals’ after seeing Kat’s abs in the song ‘Kala Chashma’ from Baar Baar Dekho. As far as her co-star is concerned, sorry Siddharth but we didn’t even notice you. Your leading lady and her abs took away all the spotlight and rightly so 🙂

Editor’s Note: Well we all love Katrina’s Killer Abs. She is truly a fitness goal, considering how chubby she was in her earlier movies like ‘Partner’. She has come a long way!

Do you desire Katrina’s Killer Abs?

Contemporary Designer Kurtis for Working Women

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Contemporary Designer Kurtis for Working Women

Whether you are searching for casual wear or for any momentous occasion, the kurtis are the finest choice to select. It gives utmost comfort, enhance your casual look and boost your confidence. It is easy to carry out with jeans, leggings, churidaar or palazzos and makes it fantastic outfits. If you are looking to enhance your style quotient then it’s time to check contemporary designer kurtis for special occasions. These outfits will make you to look stunning and stylish. The trends become the perfect choice for wedding celebration and other special occasions.

If you are looking for a special dress that has ethnic look and at the same time seem to be stylish then you can browse the collection of partywear kurtis, designer kurtis, super stylish winter kurtis, casual, office wear, etc. Every piece of kurtis is prudently designed to give imperial look. You can purchase kurtis online at reasonable prices. You can customize and personalize the outfits that you want to purchase. It is one of the most unique and preferred outfit by the young girls and working women. They are light weighted, easy to carry without dupatta, and comfortable to carry out for 8 to 9 hours. They are the ideal apparels for any family occasions, social gatherings or any party events etc. Designer outfits are crafted with embroidery, digital prints; thread work, zardosi and zari work. It all depends upon your taste and preferences. You need to make a perfect choice and combination to get the rich look that will create a lasting impression.

Digital prints have made its presence this year with almost anything and everything being textured digitally. These outfits are versatile and fashionable that suits your personality. You can try this digital attire with leggings, jeans, palazzos etc. Winters are around the corner and yes it’s a time to change the look. You can try woolen designer kurtis for this winter and explore your beauty with the designer harems. Kashmiri embroideries are the alternate option for this winter.

The churidar kurtas, anarkali suits, kurta with lehenga, kurti with palazzos, are some of the awesome collections you can think about. Moreover, there are attractive designed dupattas available in myriad colors to match your kurtis. Therefore make an astute selection when you shop online. Try to visit some of consistent and recommendable online portals that offer you complete varieties comprising with sizes, colours, designs, patterns, shades, prices etc. You can even go for discounts offers, festive offers, season sale etc. Don’t be hesitate to experiment and adventurous. Just make sure the outfits that you are selecting are well-designed and colours of the attires compliments each other.

Top 10 Foundations for Dry Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

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Top 10 Foundations for Dry Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Foundation is one of the most important base makeup and if, by any chance, it looks cakey or uneven, the whole look is compromised. As we have already listed own the “Top 10 Foundations for Oily Skin in India”, it is time to list down the favorites for dry skin too. Dry skin needs hydrating and nourishing foundation that would add a glow and luminosity to the skin.

Before the application, make sure to use a hydrating face wash followed by an emollient that would make the foundation glide on easier. This is to prevent the foundation sticking to your dry patches or accentuating fine lines.

Read the top 10 best foundation for dry skin available in India with both high end and affordable options.

1. Maybelline Dream Satin Skin Foundation – Price Rs. 700 (BUY HERE for Rs.560)

The Maybelline Dream Satin Skin Foundation comes in glass bottle with a pump dispenser. It has a light consistency and the product blends like a dream and gives that airbrushed and poreless finish. The coverage is medium to buildable and the gorgeous natural and luminous finish is something a dry skin would love. The air-whipped finish is perfect for invisible pores and the product is dermatologically tested. It doesn’t oxidize and despite having SPF 24 PA+++, it never casts a whitish layer on skin. The product affordable and also easily available.

2. Kryolan TV Stick Foundation – Price Rs.1200 (BUY HERE) (Review HERE)

This is my go-to foundation for winter when my skin is dry. It comes in a stick packaging and is available in 250 shades! The product is versatile and can be used as foundation, contour, color corrector, and concealer. It thick but blends into the skin really easily and gives a dewy finish to the skin. It has full coverage and best used for bridal purposes. The foundation doesn’t oxidize at all and photographs really well. The staying power is around 7-8hours and the foundation is a complete value for money.

3. L’Oréal Paris True Match Foundation – Price Rs. 1025 (BUY HERE for Rs. 920)

L’Oréal Paris True Match Foundation is best suited for normal to dry skin. It is available in 7-8 shades and one of the best drugstore foundations of all times. The foundation has a thicker liquid and is blends very easily. It gives medium to full coverage upon layering. The precise match technology blends smoothly on rough and patchy skin. It helps cover stubborn marks and uneven skin tone. It has glycerin and the goodness of Vitamin E. it is further Non comedogenic and long lasting, for around 5-6 hrs.

4. Revlon ColorStay Makeup for Normal/Dry Skin – Price Rs. 995 (BUY HERE)

The Revlon ColorStay Makeup for Normal/Dry Skin comes in a cylindrical glass bottle and are available in 12-13 shades which is very good for a drugstore foundation. It has a medium consistency and blends easily with the finger as well. Thus it gives an even flawless look with medium coverage. It has SPF 15 and has been formulated with the SoftFlex technology that will not rub off with normal wear. It has semi-dewy finish and it feels natural and controls excess oil. It lasts for around 5-6 hrs without oxidation.

5. The Body Shop Moisture Foundation SPF15 – Price Rs. 1395 (BUY HERE)

The TBS Moisture Foundation has SPF15 and comes in 4 shades. The foundation has a very sturdy plastic bottle with a plastic pump. It is a lightweight liquid foundation with a medium consistency. It gives a smooth light to medium coverage and natural looking finish on skin. It does not apply streaky or patchy and also hydrates the skin well. The foundation has a special silicone blend and light reflective particles provide a long-lasting dewy finish and further formulated with Vitamin E and Community Trade marula oil and organic beeswax moisturize and condition skin. it lasts for about 6-7 hrs.

6. MAC Mineralize Moisture Foundation – Price Around Rs.3250 (BUY HERE)

MAC Mineralize Moisture Foundation comes in a frosted glass bottle with a built-in pump. It is available in various shades for cool and warm tones and thus finished a shade won’t be a problem. The consistency is is gel-like and a bit runny which spreads easily and blends like a dream. It has a satin or dewy finish and gives a natural luminescence which makes the skin look very healthy. It is weightless and gives a light but buildable to medium coverage. It is formulated with 77-Mineral complex, Shea butter and Vitamin E. The wear time is around 6-7hrs.

7. MAC Face & Body Foundation – Price Rs.2600 approx (BUY HERE)

The MAC Face & Body Foundation is available in 14-15 shades. It comes in a small plastic bottle with a screw on black cap. The foundation has a runny, watery consistency. It spreads easily, blends with a few strokes and seems to absorb into the skin leaving a satiny dewy finish. The coverage is medium and the foundation is light weight on the skin and looks very natural. Also, it does not sit into pores or imperfections. It is long wearing for about 8-9hrs without touch up and photographs really well.

8. Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation – Price Around Rs.4500 (BUY HERE)

The Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation is available in 17 shades and has a small glass bottle packaging. The foundation has a runny texture and gives a sheer light coverage and an even finish. It is easy to blend and gives a flawless coverage and with a natural dewy finish. It is best suited for normal to dry skin. The liquid doesn’t oxidize on the skin and adds a glow and luminosity. The Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is great for day wear without any whitish cast. The wear time is around 8hrs.

9. Clinique Superbalanced Makeup Foundation – Price Rs. 2650 (BUY HERE)

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup Foundation is available in 22 shades and has a frosted glass bottle with a silver screw on cap. The consistency of the foundation is on the thinner side and spreads beautifully onto the skin with brush or fingers and it easy to blend. It gives medium coverage and has a dewy finish. It is extremely light weight and even out the skin flawlessly. It also minimizes the look of open pores slightly giving a slightly smoother, more impeccable look to the skin. The foundation is great for normal to dry skin, photographs well and wear time is around 7-8 hrs with powdering.

10. YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat Foundation – Price $58.00 (BUY HERE)

The YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat Foundation is available in 22 shades. The packaging is gorgeous with a cylindrical glass bottle with a golden cap and a pump. The texture is of fluid gel consistency and spreads and blends like a dream without any patchiness or uneven look. It has medium coverage foundation with a beautiful dewy finish. There is a beautiful lightness and luminosity to the formula and it feels weightless. It is enriched with stimulating power of Ruscus Extract to combat dullness along with Vitamin E protects against free-radicals. The foundation has a wear time of 8 hrs.

Editor’s Note: That’s a perfect compilation Sanchita. Would also like to add Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation and MAC Water Weight Foundation, gives a nice dewy finish and are perfect for dry skin.

Which is your favourite foundation? Let us know in the comments below.

Best of 2016 – Makeup

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Best of 2016 – Makeup

Hi guys,

So after skin and hair, it’s makeup time! I will try to stick to new launches as every year the list becomes long and endless 😀 I was still in the winged liner and matte lips phase in 2016, just like 2015. I have recently purchased so many matte liquid lipsticks that 2017 will also be the same :p

See my previous years’ favourites here:

Click on the links to read reviews or see swatches..

Face:

Primer: Sephora Smoothing Primer, Make Up For Ever Smoothing Primer

Foundation:

Liquid: L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Foundation, Maybelline Fit Me Foundation, Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation

Powder: Colorbar Loose Powder, Faces Ultime Pro Loose Powder

BB Cream: Pond’s BB Cream

CC Cream: New Lakme 9 to 5 Color Transform CC Cream

Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, Lakme Absolute Face Stylist Concealer

Pressed Powder/Compact: Lakme Absolute Face Stylist Compact, L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique, Maybelline Fit Me Powder

Blush:

Cream: Make Up For Ever Second Skin HD Blush

Powder: Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush , Marks & Spencer Limited Collection Blush Damson, L’Oreal Paris Lucent Magique Blush, Lakme Illumintating Shimmer Brick Coral

Contour: Revlon Nearly Naked Powder in Deep, Maybelline V Face Duo Stick

Bronzer: Lakme Absolute Sun Kissed Bronzer

Highlighter: MUA Undress your skin Shimmer Highlighter in Pink, Faces Ultime Pro Metalliglow Champagne, Lakme Moon Lit Highlighter

Eyes:

Eyeshadows:

Palettes: Too faced Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Collection, Lakme French Rose Palette, L’Oreal Paris Color Riche La Palette Nude in Rose, Maybelline Blushed Nudes

Singles:

Cream: Faces Ultime Pro Eye Shadow Crayon, Colorbar Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

Eye Liners:

Gel: L’Oreal Paris Gel Intenza Gel liners (Haven’t used much of gel this year)

Pencil: MAC Modern Twist Kajal, Lakme Absolute Precision Artist Eyeliner, L’Oreal Paris Silkissime Eyeliners were good but broke easily and frequently leading to a lot of wastage

Liquid/Pen: Maybelline Colossal Liner, PAC Liquid Liner Pen

Mascara: Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Kohl/Kajal: New Maybelline Colossal Kajal, Plum Goodnes NaturStudio All Day Wear Kajal, New Lakme Eyeconic 22 Hour Kajal

Eyebrow: Maybelline Fashion Brow Duo Shaper, Givenchy Brow Pencil & Mister Brow Filler

Lips:

Chubby Pencils: Lakme Absolute Matte Lip Pouts, Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon, Faces Ultime Pro Matte Lip Crayons, Maybelline Lip Gradation

Lipsticks: L’Oreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipsticks, L’Oreal Paris Infallible Lipsticks, Lakme Enrich Matte Lipsticks, Elle 18 Color Pop Matte Lipsticks, Nykaa Matte Lipsticks, MAC Liptensity

Matte Liquid Lipsticks: Colourpop Liquid Lipsticks, Colorbar Kiss Proof Lip Stain, MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipsticks, Chambor Transfer Proof Liquid Lipsticks, Mars Liquid Lipsticks (affordable options), Miss Claire Soft Matte Lip Cream, Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse

Lip Gloss: L’Oreal Infallible Lip Gloss, MAC Versicolour Lip Stain

Nails: Maybelline Forever Strong 7 Day Gel Nail Polish, Nykaa Matte Nail Enamels, Nykaa Gold Rush Collection

Perfumes/Fragrances: Davidoff Cool Water Woman Exotic Summer, CK One Gold, Marc Jacobs Decadence, Roberto Cavalli Paradiso Azzurro

Makeup Techniques: Highlighting, Baking, Matte Lips, Monotone looks

Tools: YBP Makeup Perfector, Sigma Brushes, Sedona Lace Brushes

I guess that’s all. This will be my last post for 2016. So Happy New Year guys, hope we all have a fabulous and awesome 2017!

What are your 2016 makeup favourites ? Do we share common favourites ? Let me know in the comments below.

Best of 2016 – Skin & Hair

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Best of 2016 – Skin & Hair

Hey guys,

So 2016 is coming to an end, it went by in a jiffy. Feels like yesterday that I did my Best of 2015 post. I do the best of skin and hair and makeup every year. It’s been 5 years now.

See the previous years lists here:

Usually I include a lot of items, even from previous years which have been a favourite and frequently used that year, this time around I will try to keep more of new launches of 2016.

Click on the links for complete reviews..

Skin:

Face Wash: Himalaya Neem Purifying Face Wash (Himalaya Neem is my HG and will be in my favorites forever), Avene Cleanance Gel, Clean & Clear Pimple Clearing Face Wash

Cleanser/Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water, Vichy Purete Thermale Micellar Water, Avene Micellar Water (but not for eyes)

Toner/Mist: Avene Thermal Spring Water

Moisturiser: Lacto Calamine, The Body Shop Drops of Light Day Cream, La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo

Sunscreen: Suncros, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Spray, The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Protect Emulsion

Serums:  Lotus Herbals YouthRx Serum + Creme

Face Scrub: Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Daily Scrub, The Body Shop Tea Tree 3 in 1, Himalaya Herbals Neem Scrub

Face Pack: Kawar Dead Sea Facial Mask, Korean Sheet Masks, Himalaya Tan Removal Orange Peel Off Face Mask

Face Oil: The Body Shop Oils of Life Revitalizing Facial Oil

Night Cream: The Body Shop Oils of Life Sleeping Cream, Himalaya Herbals Revitalizing Night Cream

Body Wash: The Body Shop British Rose Shower Gel, Organic Harvest Fresh Mint Shower Gel, Biotique Bio Honey Cream Body Wash

Body Scrub: The Body Shop British Rose Body Scrub

Bath Accessories: The Body Shop Bath Gloves

Body Lotion/Body Butter: The Body Shop Japanese Camellia Body Cream (LOVEE), Himalaya Herbals Body Lotions, Nivea Body Lotions

Lip Balm: Biotique Bio Almond, Himalaya Herbals Vanilla Lip Care

Other: Proactiv Refining Mask (zaps pimples instantly), Colorbar Stay the Day Finishing Mist (Keeps makeup intact and skin looking fresh whole day)

Hair:

Oil: Satthwa Oil

Shampoo: Rene Furterer Naturia Shampoo, Wella Pro Elements Shampoo, Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo, Tresemme Beauty-Full Volume Shampoo

Conditioner: Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner, Tresemme Beauty-Full Volume Conditioner

Deep Conditioner: Rene Furterer Karite Mask, Wella Pro Elements Mask

Serum/Leave in: Kerastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Cream, Wella SP Luxe Oil, Wella EIMI Perfect Me

Dry Shampoo: Wella EIMI Dry Me

Shine Spray: BBlunt Spotlight Shine Spray

Other Tools: Gillette Venus Razor, Vanity Planet Spin for Perfect Skin

These were all the products I have used and loved the most in 2016, what about you?

Best Herbal/Natural Face Masks for Acne & Acne Scars in India, Prices, Buy Online

Anti Acne, Face Mask, Health, How To, Skin care, Top 5, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best Herbal/Natural Face Masks for Acne & Acne Scars in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Nidhal

To say that we all are subjected to the vicissitudes of weather would be truism. To say that we all bear the brunt of those weather changes that shows on our skin is yet again sooth. While we may have a multitude of quick-fix solutions at our disposal yet for those who do not eye quick results but rather long-lasting and non-toxic results, it makes sense to zero in on face masks that are not only devoid of deleterious chemicals but also infused with the virtues of natural ingredients in their virgin form.

On that note, here is a list of those face masks available in India that would help you bid farewell to zits/spots/marks.

1. Tarika Ayurlabs – At Tarika, the endeavour is to be as faithful to the principles of Ayurveda as possible. Right from the procurement of herbs to the packaging stage, there is indubitable synergy in the combination of herbs. The manufacturing process described in detail in Ayurveda is followed conscientiously sans taking shortcuts. No chemicals, preservatives or additives are added to the products. Incepted in 1995, the glorious enterprise’s owners realised that even though Ayurveda is a vast ocean of goodness to be delved into, not much attention is given to it by the government, policy makers and people at large.

Coming to their eclectic range, it is Tarika’s Pimple/Acne Removers mask that has me smitten. Claiming to treat stubborn acne, its inimitable formula was developed in 1996. Proven to be efficacious for all types of skin throughout the year, it is a 100% natural product. Shipped all over India, everything about it is impressive. It certainly cleared out my skin within a short span of time. I don’t have acne hence, can’t comment on its efficacy to tackle it yet I am certain of its bountifulness. Wondrous, I say!

PRICE- 280/- INR for 50g (Buy HERE)

2. Kan’s Natural Beauty Care- Mrs. Kanchana S Babu’s all-natural, preservative and artificial- fragrance free venture, all the way from Chennai has all the reasons to be on our list. Keeping an eye on each and every facet of her products right from sourcing her ingredients to the composition of the products, she is an encyclopaedia of home remedies. Incredibly patient to lend an ear to your skin/hair woes, she recommends products on the basis of what would work for you rather than force a product down your throat.

From her bewitching range of chemical-free products that span hair masks, face masks, hair oils and body scrubs, what caught my eye was the Kasturi Anti Pimple Face Pack which is made of 100% natural ingredients. Its natural ingredients include sandalwood, Vetiver, Rose petals and Neem, all of which are great anti-bacterial agents that control even the most severe of pimples and reduce marks and blemishes. Apt for use by everyone, it helps one achieve a more even and luminous skin tone overtime. For the price you are paying, you surely are getting a value-for- money product!

PRICE- 195/- INR for 50g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

3. Raw Rituals- Composed of sandalwood powder, lodhra bark extract, ginger lily powder, fuller’s earth powder, wild turmeric powder, nutmeg powder and Aloe vera powder, Raw Rituals’ Tarditional Healing Face Pack spells luxury from the word go! Owned and operated by the courteous Mrs. Lovina Agarwal from the Manchester of India aka Ahmadabad, Raw Rituals’s range of products is not only chemical-free but also handmade and vegetarian.

With the aroma of their products attained by the virtue of addition of pure therapeutic grade essential oils, your nose won’t have to crinkle into folds in utter repugnance when a tub/pot/bottle of their product is opened. Rather, brace yourselves for you will be swept off your feet.

Apt for use by all skin types, it not only fades blemishes overtime (realistically) but also imparts a winsome glow temporarily which is augmented, if used regularly. Packed scrupulously in an aesthetic and travel-friendly package, it can be carted conveniently while travelling.

PRICE- 190/- INR for 25g (Buy HERE)

4. Quinta Essentia Organics- A little biased towards my fellow Delhi-ites, Quinta Essentia Organics- an organic skin, body and hair care venture is helmed by the lovely duo- Ms. Arti and Atika Gaur. No points for guessing, it is based out of Delhi and churns out indulgences.

No, I won’t call them “products”. They are far above than mere products. At the helm of affairs, is Arti who holds years of experience and a degree in Ayurveda from Dhyan Foundation. With a degree in biotechnology, comes Atika into the picture. Conscious consumers as the two call themselves, we cannot help but gawk at their drool-worthy range of indulgences spanning- body butters, cold-pressed soaps, hair masks, body oils, lip butters, mineral makeup, chawanpraash (formulated as per ancient Ayurvedic texts and wildcrafted/certified organic ingredients), sun veil, organic lip sticks and so on.

From their enticing range, what caught my fancy was the Olive Clay Soap. Packed in a tub which may confound one and all, it comes in a semi-liquid form and takes just a few minutes to work its magic. For use on damp skin, the time limit is 20 minutes whereas for those using it like a face wash, restrict it to 5-7 minutes. Post washing, it not only clears your skin tone instantaneously but also imparts a tinge of luminosity that looks incredulously natural- something most makeup products also fail in eliciting!

PRICE- 1,200/- INR for 70g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

5. Vedantika Herbals- With a range that encompasses not only beauty products but also health food, Vedantika Herbals is here on our list. Known to keep the ingredients’ list of their products minimal, their beauty care range of products spans a body polishing ubton/ubtan, anti-aging face mask, skin glow mask, anti-acne mask amongst others. Shipped all over India, their beauty care products are packed in aesthetic bottles that make them handy as well as durable. Adding no nasties like- parabens, sulphates, phthalates, petrochemicals, SLS, SLES, alcohol and the ilk to their products, they believe in keeping pernicious chemicals at an arm’s length from their tempting products.

I find the Anti-Acne Mask from their range worth a mention. While I do not suffer from acne, I can’t comment on how efficacious it would be for a person suffering from the same yet, what I can comment about is, is its cooling and rejuvenating properties which make it an ideal pick for blistering summers. Good to enough to be used daily, it doesn’t suck up the moisture of your skin and is safe for use by all skin types. Pulverized finely, it won’t scratch your skin too. Creditable, isn’t it?

PRICE- 185/- INR for 70g (Buy HERE)

Editor’s Note: They all sounds really, would definitely love to try some of these.

Have you tried any of these anti-acne/acne scar removal natural masks?

Winter Skincare Routine for Face/Body/Lips feat. Himalaya Herbals

Body Lotion, Creams, Day Cream, Himalaya Herbals, Lip Balm, Lip Butter, Night Creams, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Winter Skincare Routine for Face/Body/Lips feat. Himalaya Herbals

Hi guys,

If you don’t already know, I have got a fracture and I have been on bed rest since the past three weeks. I am at my parents’ place and the only thing I carried along with me in terms of skincare is this Winter Bundle I got from Himalaya Herbals.

I am so glad that all the things I would need in this winter season are a part of this bundle. I have been using these since the past 3 weeks and let me tell you my thoughts..

Starting with body care, I have three body lotions from Himalaya

  • Himalaya Herbals Cocoa Butter Intensive Body Lotion (With Cocoa Butter & Wheat Germ Oil- for extra dry skin)
  • Himalaya Herbals Nourishing Body Lotion (With Aloe Vera & Winter Cherry- for normal skin)
  • Himalaya Herbals Soothing Body Lotion (With grape seed and almond oil- for dry skin)

Each one is priced at Rs.140/- for 200ml (Buy HERE)

They all come in the standard white Himalaya Herbals packaging with the green flip cap. They all have Hydra-Nutri Balance which is ‘Hydration’ i.e. locking skin’s moisture and increasing skin’s capacity to hold moisture and ‘Nutrition’ which is some ingredients that help benefit the skin. Each body lotion has different blend of ingredients, as per the skin type.

I don’t have very dry skin but it does get more dry during winters. Especially the hands and legs. I use the Nourishing or Soothing Body Lotion during the day time and the Cocoa Butter Intensive Body Lotion during the night time. My skin remains soft, supple and moisturized. It does not crave moisture and I don’t get white patches or flaky skin after few hours. I am really enjoying these body lotions and I would recommend the Cocoa Butter one for people with dry skin and the other two for normal skin.

Coming to the face creams, I have

  • Himalaya Herbals Clear Complexion Whitening Day Cream (Lightens Skin tone & UV Protection- with Licorice & White Dammer) MRP: Rs.250/- for 50g (Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Revitalizing Night Cream (Restores moisture balance, nourishes & repairs- with White Lily & Tomato) MRP: Rs.200/- for 50g (Buy HERE)

Day Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

Night Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

They come in a clear glass jar packaging with a curved green cap and a white separator in between. The day cream is beige in color while the night cream is white. They both are super light in texture and doesn’t leave any greasy/heavy feeling. They get absorbed instantly. The day cream has a soft licorice smell while the night cream has a soft lily smell, as the ingredients in it.

The day cream also has Cinnabloc which helps in UV protection, but the SPF is not mentioned, so I would not advise skipping your sunscreen. Additional UV protection though is always welcome. It has licorice extracts which help in fading dark spots/acne scars and evening out your skin tone.

The Revitalizing Night Cream from Himalaya Herbals is one of my Holy Grail products, I have done a detailed review years ago HERE. It was my first night cream.

I absolutely love the affect of this cream on the skin overnight. In just 3-4 days, you will notice a difference in your skin. Both tomato and white lily are very good for your skin and it does make my skin very supple and plump, leaves it evenly moisturized and hydrated with no dry areas in the morning.

And there are two face and body creams, which work for both..

  • Himalaya Herbals Nourishing Skin Cream (Light & Non Greasy- with Indian Kino tree, Aloe Vera, Winter Cherry) MRP: Rs.125/- for 100ml (Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Winter Defense Moisturizing Cream (Dry/Extra Dry Skin- with Jojoba Oil, Wheat Germ, Almond Oil) MRP: Rs.125/- for 100ml (Buy HERE)

These can be used for both face and body. I use the nourishing skin cream on my face & hands right after bath. It is not very heavy, but if you compare it to the day cream, then yes it is heavier. If you have dry skin, you would like this Nourishing Skin Cream more than the day cream, coz your skin will need more hydration.

And the Winter Defense Moisturizing Cream is very heavy, I would recommend using it for dry patches on the body like the knees and elbows and the feet. I love applying a thick layer of it on my feet and cover my feet with warm socks and keep them overnight. If you have cracked feet, this will help you in healing them. Do it daily for 7 days, and your feet will be super soft with no dryness or cracks.

Coming to the lips, I have..

  • Himalaya Herbals Natural Soft Vanilla Care (MRP: Rs.125/- for 4.5g- Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Strawberry Shine Lip Care (MRP: Rs.125/- for 4.5g- Buy HERE)

They both come in a standard lip balm twist up packaging with matching caps. The vanilla one has white and beige vanilla-cocoa swirls on the inner tube. I love the way it looks and smells, absolutely love the soft and warm vanilla scent. It is clear and a perfect night time lip balm. It hydrates the lips overnight and keeps them soft through the day. I have super chapped lips, they are dry as a desert throughout the year and more so in winters. But thankfully this time around, these lip balms have kept me away from chapped and painful lips which I suffer from each winter.

Strawberry Shine one has a soft pink tint which is good for day time, not a fan of the scent of this one though.

I love the fact both Himalaya Herbals lip balms are free of mineral oil and petroleum jelly. I know most of us have used petroleum jelly for our lips before, but what it does is, it seals/locks the lips and does not allow the external moisture to reach the lips. Lips and the skin around eyes don’ have oil glands and cannot get moisturized (produce natural oils) on it’s own. So when it comes to lips, they start feeling dry and require constant application when petroleum jelly is used. I also read it in Dr. Rashmi Shetty’s book ‘Age Erase’ recently. She recommends beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, etc. based lip balms, and hence these are absolutely perfect. You can feel these are free from mineral oil and petroleum jelly, the texture is very waxy and not oily.

Overall, I would say I am in love with most of these products and they are absolutely perfect for winters. I am only using these since the past three weeks and I have carried only these with me. Highly recommend them! My favourites are the day and night cream, body lotions and the vanilla lip balm.

Have you tried these products? Let me know your current winter skincare routine.