Tag Archives: Indian makeup and beauty blog

Patanjali Body Ubtan Review, Indian Beauty Blog, Patanjali Reviews, Herbal Body Ubtan

Patanjali Body Ubtan Review

Body Scrub, Patanjali, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Patanjali Body Ubtan Review

By Nidhal

There are few things as nourishing, relaxing and advantageous for your skin as slathering a rich blend of all-natural ingredients on one’s skin. Nuts ,fruits, herbs… all finely powdered to form an aromatic blend of ‘Ubtan’ is a treat for one’s skin. Not only is one’s skin deep cleansed but also the layer of dead skin cells is exfoliated. Expectations certainly skyrocket when an all-natural Ubtan comes from Patanajali- Baba Ramdev’s pharmacy. It goes without saying that I will review PATANJALI BODY UBTAN today and let you know how it fared for me.

PRICE- Rs 60/- for 100g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE– Add sufficient quantity of water to 20-30 g of Body Ubtan to make a consistent paste. Apply on body. Massage gently. Rinse off with water.

INGREDIENTS- Chironji, red lentil, black gram, barley, mustard seeds, soybean, rice, almond, turmeric and camphor.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Enhances fairness, imparts glow to skin, reduces dark spots and blemishes.

MY EXPEREINCE-

Packed in a simple plastic pack, Patanjali Body Ubtan’s packaging is somewhat disappointing. Why? Once cut open, the contents need to be transferred to a container because 100 g cannot be used in one go. Storing it in the pack in which it comes makes it prone to contamination as well as spillage. While the argument that it costs merely Rs 60/- per pack which is dirt cheap is admissible yet the provision of a zipper pack would have altogether eliminated all these woes once and for all. Hence, there is room for improvement as far as packaging is concerned.

The ubtan is predominantly fine with few coarse granules. They aren’t harsh or abrasive. So, do not fret that your skin will redden on slathering/massaging it. I think it can be conveniently mixed with rose water, raw milk ,curd or any base ingredient for that matter. Adding water is a mere recommendation for the producers which I followed. The paste so obtained has a pleasant and not overpowering aroma. I have used it a number of times and even if kept for more than half an hour, it does not stain your face yellow.

The presence of slightly coarse granules facilitate scrubbing and aid removal of dead skin cells’ layers. Upon removal, my skin looks squeaky clean, deeply cleansed and radiant. It does not suck moisture off one’s skin and that spells cheer for those with dry/excessively dry skin. I can’t comment on its efficacy or the lack of it when it comes to oil removal for oily/excessively oily skin type. Mine is dry and it hasn’t made my skin dry post wash ever. That said, it doesn’t even moisturise it either which I have no issues with because it doesn’t claim to do so.

I find it suitable for use by all skin types. If you are on a shoestring budget, grabbing a few packets of this won’t even pinch you. This one’s a good investment in my humble opinion 🙂

GOOD-

1. Budget-friendly

2. Readily available

3. Deep cleanses skin

4. Does not suck moisture hence, apt for dry and extremely dry skin types

5. Imparts radiance and NOT fairness which is plausible

6. Imparts a squeaky clean feel

7. All-natural composition

8. Apt for use by all skin types

BAD-

1. Packaging needs to be revamped.

RATING-4.5/5

Editor’s Note: This sounds very good Nidhal, definitely in my Patanjali haul list.

Have you tried the Patanjali Body Ubtan yet?

Lakme CC Color Transform Cream Beige, Bronze Review & Demo

CC Creams, How To, Lakme, Makeup, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lakme CC Color Transform Cream Beige, Bronze Review & Demo

Hi guys,

As some of you wanted a review on these new Lakme 9 to 5 Color Transform CC Creams, here you go..

What the Company claims: Tired of using a bunch of different products every day to get that perfect look, what if you could have your fairness cream, moisturizer, sunscreen and concealer all in one seamless CC cream. It’s time to toss the clutter aside and make way for first colour changing CC cream from the house of Lakme.. Lakme’s first advanced fairness cream that changes color as you blend, to give a make-up finish.

Key Ingredients: Water, Color changing beads, UVA & UVB Sunscreens.

Ingredients:

Warning: Avoid contact with eyes. Wash your eyes thoroughly with clean water in case of eye contact

It Instantly:

  • Brightens
  • Conceals
  • Evens Skin Tone
  • Moisturizes
  • Protects against sun with SPF 30 PA++

Shades Available: Beige, Bronze

MRP: Rs.325/- for 30g (Buy at Rs.260 HERE)

I think they have discontinued the previous CC Cream, since that was in two shades Beige and Bronze and I was in middle, I could never use it much. Beige was light for me and Bronze was dark for me.

Thankfully, with this Color Transform Cream, it blends and matches your skin tone, so I need not worry about it being light or dark. Bronze will definitely be darker for me though but the Beige one matches me well.

It comes in a similar tube packaging but in an ombre white to nude pink color, representing the color transform. It comes out as a white cream with tiny, little grey-black beads in it. They do not feel like beads or gritty since they are very minute. But those help in actually transforming the cream. Once you apply and blend it onto the skin, it changes color and matches your skin tone. Both shades look exactly the same in swatch, but once blended you can notice how beige is light and bronze is darker.

Bronze, Beige

Beige is perfect for fair to medium skin tone and Bronze is perfect for medium to dark skin tones. I am glad they have strong beige yellow undertones and are perfect for most Indian skin tones. Though if you are cool toned or pinker, this might look a little yellow on you.

Watch detailed video and demo here..

This cream instantly brightens and evens out the skin, as claimed. It does feel moisturizing and also gives SPF30 PA++ protection. Though this will not cover your dark circles or blemishes, you will have to use a concealer separately on top for that. You also need to set this cream with a powder since it is on the heavier side.

But once set, it stays put for a good 6-7 hours, only needs a powder touch up in between. I do use a concealer for under eyes and a powder separately, but I do see myself using this a lot for everyday basis.

I totally recommend this for college and work wear. This is perfect for everyday use and with the online discount, it turns out to be pretty economical and gives sunscreen protection with PA++ too.

If you do not like using separate products and love multi tasking products, you will love it! If you need more coverage and wear makeup regularly, you can use this a primer.

Also one thing I noticed is the more you blend, the more it adapts to your skin tone. I am not really sure, let me know in the comments below, if you tried and experienced that.

Overall, definitely recommend it!

Have you tried the new Lakme 9 to 5 Color Transform CC Cream?

Himalaya Herbals Foot Care Cream Review

Foot Cream, Himalaya Herbals, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Himalaya Herbals Foot Care Cream Review

By Nidhal

Chances are your feet would be the most ignored parts of your body and you’d know of it already. Spare a thought for them. You wake in the morning, head to work, slog yourself all day, head back home all tired and drained and if there is a wee bit of energy left, you’d spruce up your face and neck and hit the pillow. But what about your feet? Once glance at them and in all probability, you’d throw your hands up in the air and disown them for their hideous semblance 😛 Won’t you?

Cracked feet is one woe that makes us regret not paying heed to our feet but wait, do not fret. There is still time, to turn the clock back. How? Well, Himalaya Hebals is here with its Foot care cream to allay this problem of yours. Let’s see how Himalaya Herbals Foot care cream fared for me

PRICE- Rs 95/- for 50 g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Wash your feet with lukewarm water and a soap-free cleanser. Pat dry. Apply Himalaya herbals foot care cream over them. Massage gently and allow it to dry. Repeat twice daily once after bathing and once before bedtime. Consult your doctor if you are a diabetic with any inflammation or irritation on your feet.

INGREDIENTS- Each gram contains Madhu (honey) 12 mg, Extracts of Haridra 9curcuma longa) 11 mg, Salarasa (shorea robusta) 9 mg, sunthi (zingiber officinale) 9 mg, methi (trigonella foenum- graceum) 9 mg

Key ingredients:

Sal Tree extract is used as an ingredient in ointments for skin diseases and in ear medicines. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help heal cracked heels.

Honey, with its bactericidal and antiseptic properties, is extremely important in Ayurveda. Used in a variety of medicines, honey is also an effective moisturizing agent.

Turmeric has been used as an antiseptic for centuries. The herb also contains strong anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe your feet gently.

Fenugreek has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicines and is an excellent moisturizer, specially formulated to hydrate dry skin. Applied externally, the herb is also beneficial for boils, abscesses and ulcers.

Ginger is used externally as a local circulatory stimulant which keeps the feet warm, preventing the skin from cracking due to the cold.

INACTIVES– Methylparaben IP, propylparaben IP, Bronopol IP.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Himalaya’s Foot Care Cream cares for your cracked heels and rough feet with natural ingredients. Enriched with the goodness of Honey, Turmeric, Fenugreek seeds and Sal Tree extract, this cream leaves your feet feeling soft in one week.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a simple plastic tube with a cap on top, the packaging of Himalaya herbals foot care cream is simple and hygienic to use. Despite regular use, the cap did not lose its grip which is appreciable. In a nutshell, it is up to the mark in terms of packaging. Nothing to go gaga over but nothing to criticize as well!

The cream has a slightly thick texture with a pleasant (herbal) fragrance. It is not too strong or long-lasting so, those who have a sensitive nose or dislike its fragrance, need not bother. It won’t last long. The cream spreads conveniently on one’s heels and with a little massage for 5 minutes, it seeps well into the skin. One or two uses won’t throw any significant results but dedicated use for a week will render you with softened heels. My heels were a little cracked and they were ‘healed’ (pun absolutely intended) in that time frame completely. I used it twice a day- once after having a bath and once during bedtime. I am quite sure that given its efficacy, it is capable of healing heels that are much more cracked than mine. Of course those with really cracked heels, need to give it more time. You damaged it in the first place, now give it some tender love and care too 

On the flip side, it has parabens so, I won’t use it after it cures my cracked heels. This is effective as a ‘remedy’ but to me, not as a permanent beauty treatment. I’d rather stick with my oil blend once my feet are cured. How thankless of me!

GOOD-

1. Does what it claims to that is, heel cracked feet.

2. Readily available

3. Economical pricing

4. Travel-friendly

5. Mild aroma which won’t exasperate those not fond of products laced with fragrance

BAD-

1. Contains parabens, so it won’t be a “long-lasting” beauty fix. At best, use it if you have cracked heels to cure them and then opt for a natural beauty fix.

RATING- 4.5/5

Editor’s Note: My mom has deep cracked heels and I will definitely suggest her this. She doesn’t use foot creams regularly, always forgets. I hope she uses this and it helps her. I also like the Oriflame one.

Have you tried the Himalaya Herbals Foot Cream yet?

Kara Nail Polish Remover Wipes Review

Kara, Nail Polish Removers, Nails, New Launches, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kara Nail Polish Remover Wipes Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing these life changing nail polish remover wipes from Kara! I remember the first time ever I came across wipes, I was elated! It’s a pain to sit with cotton balls and acetone/nail paint remover and work on each nail, also that takes forever!

Most of the nail paint removers come in glass bottles and you need to carry cotton balls also, if you want to remove your nail paint on the go or while travelling. Most inconvenient thing ever!

Enter nail polish remover wipes! And your life is sorted, I have tried numerous about 3-4 different brands and absolutely love the idea.

I have been testing these new nail polish remover wipes from Kara and here are my thoughts..

What the Company claims: The pack contains 30 wipes and every wipe is effective in cleansing up to 10 nails!

The wipe contains an Acetone free formulation for effective removal of nail polish, even of the darkest shade. These wipes are made from poly-viscose fibre and contain natural olive oil extracts that prevents drying of nail and skin surrounding nails. Also enriched with skin nourishing vitamin E, it helps in keeping your nails nourished and moisturized at all times. All wipes come with a delightful fruity fragrance, which comes out pleasantly post usage.

This on-the-move pack has been designed for convenience of use anytime anywhere. It can be easily slipped in your bag, used in flights, classrooms, and boardrooms anywhere anytime. All our wipes are dermatologically tested, are Acetone free, Toluene free and Paraben free.

Thus from now on if you’re worrying about chipped nails, all you need is a wipe. A new shade is now just a wipe away and say hello to your nail’s new BFF cause you can wipe off, paint on wherever you are. All with Kara Nail Polish Remover Wipes.

About Kara:  Kara is a quality product brought to you by Future Consumer Enterprise Limited. Kara wipes are manufactured at our conversion plant at Kharach. This plant is FDA approved and the manufacturing process is carried out under stringent conditions to ensure user safety and hygiene. Each Kara wipe is made from Viscose fibres, a 100% natural bio-degradable fibre.

MRP: Rs.100/- for one pack of 30 wipes

Availability: Currently on 20% discount on Nykaa.com HERE and offline available at Big Bazaar, Health & Glow, Star Bazaar, Hypercity, Beauty stores, etc.

Variants:

  • Rose
  • Lemon
  • Orange
  • Strawberry

I had about 2-3 packs of nail polish remover wipes and I haven’t been able to find them at my place, post shifting. You won’t believe but I haven’t painted my nails often since the time I lost those :/ It’s a pain to remove nail paints with a normal nail paint remover once you have tried these wipes. Also if I use acetone free nail paint remover, it takes me literally ages to remove paint from one single nail! I get so tired by the end of it, that I have stopped doing my nails on my own unless I go for a professional manicure-pedicure.

And thanks to Kara, my life is sorted again! I am so glad Kara has come up with nail polish remover wipes and that too in four different variants.

Each variant smells really good and the smell stays on your nails for some time. My favourites are rose and lemon. It comes in a round box and the box is very tiny and handy, it is almost the size of your fingers, as you can see in the image here.

Each wipe is super thin and made with poly-viscose fibre. You can feel how thin the wipe is, it is almost see through. Having tried 2-3 different brands, I have to admit this is the thinnest wipe I have used and the material feels superior quality in touch and feel.

One wipe is enough to remove paint from all 10 fingers at a time. It is so easy and convenient to use, I did not have to go over my nails twice, even with a dark nail paint. As you can see here, I just tried to lift one pad and it already took some nail paint off from the finger.

I love the ease of use! And the fact that it is Acetone free, Toluene free and Paraben free. The olive oil and Vitamin E leave the nails super moisturized. Normal nail paint removers leave my nails so dry that I have to immediately apply some oil or hand cream.

Also these are the most economical ones in the market considering the price and quality. These are more travel friendly too, I would say keep one in your bag all the time. You never know when your nail paint might chip and bare nails are better than chipped nail paint!

At Rs.100 for 30 pads, it comes to Rs.3.33 for one pad which is enough to remove nail paint from all fingers. Even if you change your nail paint every week, this will last you months.

I am highly impressed and definitely recommend the Kara Nail Polish Remover wipes! Stock up on these at the current Nykaa sale for just Rs.80!

Have you tried the Kara nail polish remover wipes yet?

Touch Nature Lemongrass Essential Oil Review, Benefits, How to Use

Essential Oils, Health, How To, Oils, Reviews, Skin care, Tips, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Touch Nature Lemongrass Essential Oil Review, Benefits, How to Use

By Nidhal

They smell heavenly. They are perfect pick-me- up items to uplift your senses and lull you into a soothing slumber. Popularly used in aromatherapy sessions, essential oils, EO for short are highly concentrated, potent and therapeutic oils that need to be necessarily blended with a carrier/base oil for external use (and they are strictly not meant for internal uses). A base oil is simply any oil that mellows down the potency of the essential oil to the extent that its goodness isn’t reduced but it becomes conducive for use on skin.

The bottom line- Always, without fail, dilute essential oils in a base (or more than one) oil such as- virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO in short), virgin sesame oil and so on and so forth for use on skin/hair. Also, add only a few “DROPS’ and not teaspoons/tablespoons of the essential oil into the carrier/base oil. You stand the risk of scalding your skin if you add more than a few drops of essential oil to the base oil.

With these basic ideas in my, I zeroed in on TOUCH NATURE NEPAL LEMONGRASS ESSENTIAL OIL one fine afternoon as I was strolling the streets of Kathmandu, Nepal in 2014 🙂 The people are the epitome of courtesy , warmth and civility by the way. Coming back to the topic, let us begin with how the essential oil fared for me and how I used it for my skin and hair.

PRICE – 350 INR for 10ml (Buy similar from Soulflower HERE)

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Dilute in a base/carrier oil of your choice, depending on your skin’s condition and use topically.

INGREDIENTS- Pure lemongrass essential oil

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon) is a perennial plant in the Poaceae grass family and is native to the tropical and subtropical area of India, Cambodia, Indonesia, China, Guatemala, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. It flourishes where the soil is slightly sandy and the climate moist and war. Lemongrass essential oil has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-oxidant, astringent and diuretic properties.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a minuscule glass jar with a plastic cap on top and a layer of plastic covering with already perforated holes inset, the packaging of the essential oil is simple, spillage-free and travel-friendly. Yes, the provision of the double layer packaging makes it easy to carry without the fear of leakage. However, I wish a dropper was furnished so that drawing out the oil would have been easier. So, that is my input.

The oil has a riveting aroma. It uplifts you truly! The oil does not have a greasy/oily/thick texture but is fairly runny (as I see). One is not supposed to put it on one’s skin without dilution hence, I never risked doing the same.

FOR MY SKIN – I blend 3-4 drops of this lemongrass essential oil into two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and then, massage it on my skin especially after a bath for that ensures better absorption 🙂 Result? My skin feels hydrated, smoothed out and softened throughout the day besides emanating a lovely aroma that keeps me fresh

FOR MY HAIR- I mix 2 drops of this lemongrass essential oil with 2 tablespoons of virgin sesame oil (which is slightly warm for I prefer hot oil massages). Never mix the oils and then heat the resulting mixture. Do not even heat virgin sesame oil too much else or it may emit flames of smoke, indicating that all its goodness is going in for a toss. Simply heat the virgin sesame oil for a minute or two on LOW FLAME and then after a minute or two, add 2 drops of lemongrass EO. Mix well and apply on your scalp.

Keep it overnight and then apply a mask (optional step) the next morning, shampoo and condition as usual. You will end with shiny, hydrated and softened hair which I did  Oh yes, as far as my experience goes, I find it suitable for use by all skin types except those with excessively dry skin. All hair types can go for it.

GOOD-

1. Riveting aroma. It sends one’s olfactory senses into a tizzy. In one word- Heavenly 

2. Well-packaged

3. Well-priced. Most essential oils are within this range so, one is not being overcharged.

4. Perfect for aromatherapy sessions.

5. Can be added to hair masks with a foul odour to camouflage the smell.

6. Can be added to face masks in order to elicit a soul-stirring aroma.

7. Imparts a glow. I have added a few drops of the same to extra virgin olive oil and used on my face and neck (which is dry)every night for two months. Hence, can vouch for it. Please note, I said “drops”.

BAD-

1. Very difficult to find. I have not been able to find it in India. It is obvious since it is made in Nepal but even if searched online, one is unable to find to find it.

RATING – 4/5

OPPO F1s Selfie Expert First Impressions, Specs, Pictures

Gadgets, New Launches, OPPO, Reviews, Smartphone, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

OPPO F1s Selfie Expert First Impressions, Specs, Pictures

Hi guys,

If you follow my blog, you know I have reviewed the OPPO F1 which was launched in Feb HERE. And then later in April, I went to Delhi for the OPPO F1 Plus Selfie Expert phone launch and also reviewed the F1 Plus HERE, comparing it with Samsung Galaxy A7.

Now OPPO has launched the F1s which is already available for pre-booking. I am trying out the device since about a week now and here are my thoughts on it.

Key Features:

  • 16MP Front camera and 1/3.1 inch Image Sensor
  • Beautify 4.0
  • In built Filters
  • 13MP Rear Camera and 1/3.06 inch sensor
  • 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 4 Screen
  • 0.22s Fingerprint Unlock
  • Customizable Finger print activated app launch
  • 3GB RAM
  • Dual 4G sim 
  • 32GB internal memory, expandable upto 128GB
  • New ColorOS 3.0 based on Android 5.1

Price: INR 17990

Colors Available: Gray & Gold

It’s a 5.5 inch screen normal sized smartphone, it’s not as thin and light as the F1 Plus, but not very heavy too, 160g to be precise. It has 3075mAh battery which is pretty good and lasts through whole day in one full charge!

It comes with earphones, charger, USB cord and a transparent plastic back case.

Of course, the phone does have all the excellent camera features which all OPPO phones come with. From Selfie Panoroma to HDR and Expert Mode.

I have clicked this with the Expert Mode, Ultra HD Mode, HD Mode and the Normal mode. The Expert Mode lets you adjust the white balance, ISO and every other setting. If you are a professional photographer, you can change those every single time before clicking. Ultra HD gives brighter and clearer pictures. HD mode is true to color and will give you super sharp pictures. They are heavy in size and resolution. HD mode is my favourite, and the Normal mode clicks pretty good pictures too. They have an inbuilt editor which lets you quickly edit pictures.

Left-Right: Expert, Ultra HD, HD, Normal

Also my favourite Beautify 4.0 mode, it makes your selfies look flawless! And also natural at the same time. I have taken this picture with the normal mode and the Beautify mode. Mind you, I only have concealer and some powder used here on my skin, and the Beautify mode gives me flawless skin as if I have full makeup on. I love the fact that it brightens and sharpens my eyes.

Front Camera
Left- Normal
Right- Beautify

Both front and rear camera clicks excellent pictures even in low light and night time, compared to all other expensive phones in the segment. I had compared the F1 Plus with Samsung Galaxy A7 in my previous blog post. As you can see in the pictures above, it concentrates light on the subject and dims the background, so the subject is well lit!

0.22s Fingerprint Sensor

Sensors on the phone include Proximity sensor, Ambient light sensor, Accelerometer. The finger print sensor is unbelievably fast! Colours are very bright and sharp and pictures come true to colour.

It has almost all the features of the F1 Plus, and at an attractive price of 17990! If you are looking for a phone that looks stylish, has excellent camera and battery, plus is not very expensive, you do not have to look any further!! OPPO F1s is your answer! Pre book at your nearesr OPPO store.

Monsoon Getaway with American Tourister #PlanATomorrow

Lifestyle, Travel, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Monsoon Getaway with American Tourister #PlanATomorrow

Hi Guys,

So I went for a really fun one day monsoon getaway last to last Saturday with American Tourister. We went to Khambale at Igatpuri which is about 3 hours from Mumbai.

The view on route itself was so beautiful, road trips during monsoons are absolutely amazing and a mesmerizing experience.

We left from Santacruz at around 7.30 am and reached Khambale at 11 am, we even took a break in between for some vada pav and chai, of course! You can’t miss that when travelling across Maharashtra 😀

After reaching Khambale, we hiked about 1-1.5 kms and most of it was pretty easy and smooth, except for one steep slope. But then that was the most fun part! Once we reached on top, the view was mesmerising. We just couldn’t stop clicking loads of pictures.

I took some panorama shots, boomerangs and a lot of Snapchat pictures and videos of course :p If you follow me on Snapchat (bhumika_t) or Instagram, you must have already seen those.

We enjoyed the view and sat there for some time. We even planted some trees. The entire area has tree plantations and there were quite a lot of pot plants kept aside, which you can plant anywhere you like.

I am glad that not only did we enjoy and had a fun trip, we even did something to give back to the nature. While we were coming back, it started raining heavily and we got completely drenched. Now you cannot go for a monsoon getaway and not get drenched, right? 😀 That was fun too, basically I enjoyed every part of the trip and Mother Nature made sure it included every element.

We left Khambale and had a proper Maharashtrian thali for lunch at a nearby restaurant. We were so hungry after the hike that the hot, yummy food seemed perfectly appetizing!

It was a fun day and I so needed a break, thank you American Tourister for this fun getaway. American Tourister also has a #MonsoonTourister contest going on, where you have to just send in your monsoon getaway pictures and you can win American Tourister merchandise! Join the contest on their Instagram (@amtouristerin) or twitter (@amtouristerin)

Where have you been to this monsoon?

Top 10 BB/CC Creams in India, Prices, Buy Online

BB Creams, CC Creams, Makeup, Top 10, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Top 10 BB/CC Creams in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Summer always calls for less makeup products on the face and we always prefer skipping the foundation. However, we still need something to look fresh, bright and that would even out the skin tone. So, the best option is BB/CC cream. BB means beauty balm which enhances the skin and brightens it while CC stands for complexion care and hides the minor blemishes and gives an even look to the skin. It is great for day time and office wear as well with its light weight and super absorbing formula. So, let us see the top 10 BB/CC creams in India.

1. Maybelline Clearglow Shine Free BB Stick: Price- Rs.250 for 10g (Review HERE)

Maybelline Clearglow BB Stick is a great choice for oily/combination skin, especially this summer. It has a mineral clay formula which guarantees 12hr shine control and contains the goodness of Salicylic acid to manage combination & oily skin. It never clogs the pores or suffocate the skin and has a beautiful sweat-resistant and sebum – resistant formula leaves the skin fresh all day long. It also contains SPF 21/PA+++ that protects skin from sun damage. It blends well and has sheer to buildable coverage. Downside is, it is only available in 2 shades.

2. Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector: Price- Rs 99 for 18g (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

It comes in a tube packaging with a creamy texture. However, the consistency is neither too runny in texture nor too thick. With its light weight texture, it is a comfortable emollient but non-greasy texture. It blends seamless without any streakiness or patchiness and gives a very sheer coverage. It adds a very soft glow to the skin and astonishingly wears quite long and well suited for oily to combination skin. You can also use it as a tinted moisturizer and the price point is extremely good. Further, it is enriched with UVA/UVB protection with SPF 24. The only downside is, it comes in a single shade.

3. Lakme CC Cream: Price- Rs.275 for 30ml (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

Lakme CC Cream comes in a beige colored tube with a silver screw on cap. It has a slightly tight texture but surprisingly, it bends quite flawlessly on the skin and gives an extremely natural and airbrushed finish. It almost feel nothing and gives a soft matte finish which does not look dry or cakey, accentuating on fine lines. It gives light to medium coverage and evens out the skin tone and you can also layer it without the fear of looking unnatural. It also provides a brightening effect but a subtle one. It is long wearing and works great for every skin type.

4. Colorbar Perfect Match Beauty Balm: Price- Rs. 550 for 29g (Review HERE)

This is undoubtedly the best BB cream in India. It is available in 3shades with broad spectrum sun protection (UVA and UVB – SPF 20). The tube packaging is great with the texture of a creamy-mousse and blends on the skin like a dream. It gives a matte finish with a light coverage which looks really natural and you can happily skip the foundation. The yellow undertones compliments and brightens the skin pretty well and has a long wearing formula of around 4- 5hours without any touch ups. The product is also paraben-free.

5. Deborah Milano 5 in 1 BB Cream: Price- Rs 625 for 30ml

Deborah Milano Claims: 5-in- 1 BB CREAM has a soft, fluid consistency that allows for as little or as much coverage as required, without ever looking cakey. It is available in 6 shades which is great for a BB Cream in India. It has a matte finish which is ideal for oily and combination skin. It conceals and minimizes imperfections like dark spots and pigmentation and evens out skin tone while also protects it against UV radiation and pollution. It has a long wearing formula and wears even long when touchups with powder or blotting sheets are done.

6. Ponds White Beauty BB+ Fairness Cream: Price- Rs 140 for 18g (Buy HERE)

Ponds White Beauty BB+ Fairness Cream is quite a budget friendly one. It comes in white tube with screw cap. The cream is enriched with a powerful mix of Vitamin B3, Vitamin E, Allantoin and advanced superior sunscreen protection of SPF 30 PA++. The BB Cream blends well on the skin to give a natural semi-matte finish and effectively hides minor blemishes and also brightens up the skin. The consistency is great and can be mixed with a foundation for better coverage as well. It works best for normal to dry skin and oily skin in winters only. However, the cream is available in only 1 shade which won’t suit everybody.

7. L’Oréal Paris True Match Skin Idealizing BB Cream: Price- Rs 550 for 30ml (Review HERE)

This is an ideal BB Cream for dry skin and comes with a high SPF of SPF 35+++ that also shields skin against environmental assault. Sometimes it may cast a whitish cast but after 10-15mins it happily adapts to the skin tone. It blends well and seamless on the skin and also brightens up the skin, adds a soft glow while being almost matte when set with a powder. Further, the skin is enriched with anti-ageing active ingredients to smoothen out skin’s texture. It also has a wearing formula of around 4-5hours with little touchups.

8. MAC Prep + Prime Beauty Balm: Price- Rs.2100 for 40ml

This Prep + Prime BB Cream SPF 35 by M.A.C. is one of the best high end option. It has a light weight liquid, but not runny, consistency and blends best with a duo fibre brush or Beauty Blender sponge, hiding pigmentation and dark spots very well and keeps the skin shiny and moisturized during the whole day. It has a nice flowery fruity scent to it as well. You require a very less amount of product and it is also long wearing on the skin as well even in summers.

9. Clinique Age Defense BB Cream with SPF30 – Price-Rs. 1900

Clinique products are always counted among the best ones and this Age Defense BB Cream is no exception. It has SPF of 30 that protects the skin well. it has three shades which suits pretty well without any ghastly whitish cast. The consistency is a bit thick and product is 100% allergy tested and fragrance free. It provides medium coverage and also brightens up the skin tone for a daytime look. This BB Cream is well suited for oily to acne prone skin and have antioxidants. You can also use this as a day cream as well.

10. Bobbi Brown BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF35 – Price- Rs.3000

This multitasking formula perfects skin in various ways, like, it covers imperfections and evens skin tone, draws moisture to skin (well suited for normal to dry skin) brightens dullness instantly and over time, helps reduce the look of wrinkles (antioxidants and skin repair ingredients) and shields skin against damaging UVA/UVB rays with SPF 35. It is available in a wide shade range for all skin tones (available in 9 shades with distinct yellow tones) from fair to dark and won’t disappoint you at all.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely love the Ponds BB Cream, it matches me perfectly and the coverage is super! One of my friend swear by the Chanel CC Cream, so would like to include that too as a recommendation.

Which is your favourite BB/CC Cream?

Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque Review

Face Mask, Natural Bath & Body, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque Review

By Pallavi

Hello Lovelies,

Here I am back with yet another skin care product. By now you might have understood that I am a big skin care junkie. I buy more and more products of skin care than makeup. Because I really believe that healthy skin is the key to beautiful skin. And in summers I love to use face packs. After a long tiring day my skin becomes so pale and tired that I need something to boost and revive my skin.

And that is the time when I am in urgent need of face packs. And this is one of those purchases – Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque.

Price: Rs. 449 for 100 ml.

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Begin by splashing some water on your face. Now, squeeze out the mask from the tube. Dilute the mask a bit with water. Spread the mask all over your face. Let it dry for some time say 15-20 minutes. Now, rinse away your face with water. You may be in need of more water for this clay based face mask. So, wash your face thoroughly.

What the brand Claims: Like the special clay masks that were a favourite with the Egyptian goddess Cleopatra, our French Red Clay mask never fails to soften your skin, preserve its complexion and impart a natural glow. It is a gentle paste of French Red Clay, which is an absolute powerhouse of iron and other minerals! Best suited for normal to oily skin types, it cleanses, detoxifies and exfoliates the skin, leaving it highly refreshed and toned. The clay is blended with Rose oil, virgin Coconut oil and the balancing Cedar wood essential oils. As the oils further nourish the skin, Turmeric powder and Sandalwood give it a distinctive radiance.

My experience with Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque:

The Packaging of Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque is very simple and travel friendly. It comes in a medium sized tube packaging which has product details written all over it. The tube has a wide cap at the top which needs to be twisted so that the face mask comes out. You need to squeeze the tube lightly. A very little product is required per usage. So, a single tube will easily last you for months.

Now, coming to the texture part. The clay based face masque is quite hard and not that easy to spread. So, you need to dilute it with water so that it spreads easily. After spreading it on face it will take some more time than the usual face masque to dry. Once it dries you can notice a clean and clear skin. You can also notice some redness around your nose area in case you have a sensitive skin.

And if you have a dry skin then you should pat some moisturiser on your face immediately after washing using this face pack. Yes, girls this face pack is a bit drying. But all clay based face masques are i believe.

Good about Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque

1. Goodness of natural ingredients

2. Travel friendly packaging

3. Price affordable

4. Little product required per usage

5. Cleanses face effectively

6. No breakouts

Bad about Natural Bath and Body French Red Clay Masque

1. Not easily available

2. Dries out your skin too much

Rating – 4/5

Editor’s Note: I love clay based face masks Pallavi, this sounds good!

Have you tried any French Red Clay Masque? Which is your favourite?

Wella EIMI Style Range Root Shoot, Dry Me, Perfect Me Review

Dry Shampoo, Hair Care, Hair Serums, Hairstyles, New Launches, Reviews, Wella, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wella EIMI Style Range Root Shoot, Dry Me, Perfect Me Review

Hi guys,

Wella has introduced few new products in their EIMI Styling Range and I have been trying them since the past few days, here are my thoughts on it.

About the Wella EIMI Range: The EIMI range has a product to suit everyone’s individual style, whether they desire a volumizing boost, wild textures, dazzling shine or a smooth and silky finish. Expressing individuality has never seen so easy.  Individual style seekers can pick from 31 styling essentials including four new exciting products to create the style the best suits them – whether they want wild texture, dazzling shine, a volume boost or a smooth and sleek finish.

I love the matte grey and white cap packaging, with the EIMI written with different color on each product. The best part about this entire range is the fragrance, it smells absolutely amazing!!

NEW & HERO Dry Me dry shampoo for creating head turning volume and matte texture for any individual style. Those wanting to create some head turning volume and matte texture can try Dry Me, the new revolutionary dry shampoo.

HOLD LEVEL 2
Create volume and a manageable matte texture to achieve your look. Refresh your hair and absorb oil with this formula with Tapioca starch.

HOW TO USE:  Shake me, spray me, style me. Apply evenly on dry hair, leave in and brush through.

MRP: Rs.900/- for 180ml

It’s a normal, tall spray bottle and is very easy to use. It does not leave too much of white powder residue on the scalp unlike other dry shampoos. It creates an immediate bounce and volume. I am so in love with the way it smells.

I am very lazy when it comes to washing hair and dry shampoos are a staple for me. I have tried 6-7 different brands of dry shampoos and I can easily say, this is by far the best dry shampoo I have tried!

NEW & HERO Root Shot means you are just one shot away from high precision, weightless root lift.

HOLD LEVEL 2
Perfect root lift is only a shot away with this mousse designed for precision application.

HOW TO USE: Shake, shoot, volumise. Apply on damp hair directly on the roots and blow dry as you wish.

MRP: Rs.900/- for 200ml

If your hair is straight & flat like mine and you love volume in hair, this is the product for you! Just take some mousse on your palms and apply it on your roots on damp hair and blow dry as usual. You will immediately get insane amount of volume. Trust me, you will absolutely love the results. Since I am not a person who blow dries a lot, I don’t end up using this often. I mostly prefer air drying my hair.

NEW & HERO Perfect Me – this delicate lotion adds shine, repairs, moisturises and tame fly-aways. It creates deliciously smooth hair.

HOLD LEVEL 2
Create natural style with smoothness with this delicate lotion that adds shine, repairs, moisturizes, tames flyaways and protects from the heat of styling tools.

HOW TO USE: Pamper, perfect, protect. Caress a small amount of product on mid-lengths and ends on damp or dry hair for a luxurious feel. Style as you wish.

MRP: Rs.900/- for 100ml

A BB Lotion for your hair. You must have heard about a lot of BB creams for skin, this is a BB lotion for your hair, and rightfully so. It not only gives the hair a smooth and shiny look and controls frizz, it also repairs, moisturises and works as a heat protectant. What more does one need 😀 I absolutely love it and use it every time post washing my hair. The smell stays on for a long, long time and I can’t stop smelling my hair for the entire day :p

Dry Me and Root Shoot are meant to give you volume and Perfect Me is meant to give hair a sleek and smooth finish. I use the Dry Me dry shampoo a lot, followed by the Perfect Me and Root Shoot whenever I blow dry.

My favourite from all three is obviously the Dry Me, followed by the Perfect Me :p I have clicked pictures before and after using the dry shampoo, the results are for you all to see..

This is my flat 3-4th day unwashed hair and just look at the volume I got on the crown with the dry shampoo.

Also this range is quite economically priced at INR 900. Mostly all hair styling products fall in that price category and talking about quality, I am highly impressed with this range! Highly recommended!!

EIMI is available in all Wella Professional salons. Simply ask your Wella Professional stylist for more information.

Have you tried the Wella EIMI Range yet?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review