Soultree Aloe & Rose Water Cleansing Milk – 30ml (Rs,295/- for 120ml)
Rene Furterer Curbicia Lightness Regulating Shampoo- 15ml (Rs.1320/- for 150ml)
Style Fiesta Earrings- Rs.499/-
Freshlook 1 Day Color Lens – Grey (1 pair) (Rs.900 for a pair of 5)
There was an option to select a full sized makeup product for this month’s bag and since I already had most of the stuff, I went for this Catrice Cosmetics Lip Pencil in Hey Macadamia Ahey.
There are 6 products in this month’s bag which is pretty good. I love the Catrice Lip pencil and the earrings. Also I haven’t worn colored lenses post I got my lasik done, so would definitely be trying these once in one of the makeup looks in the future.
Not very happy about the samples except the Soultree one, but the rest of the products makeup for it.
Freshlook Grey Lenses
The earrings, lip pencil and one pair of colored lenses totally make the bag worth the money, rest can be counted free 🙂 I do like this month’s bag and recommend it, unless you don’t wear lenses and don’t like the accessory. I am not sure which accessory is being sent to whom, so that depends on your luck 😀
Overall, a thumbs up from me.
What did you get in your April 2016 Fab Bag? Do let me know in the comments below.
The dry and cold weather during the winter months tend to strip your hair of moisture. As a result, your tresses look dull, frizzy, and lifeless. Dry hair is more prone to breakage and develops split ends. Hence, it is important to nourish and condition your hair. The right kind of conditioning treatments during the winters would help to lock in moisture content in the hair shafts, thereby making your hair soft and manageable. Check out the top 5 natural hair conditioning treatments that are not only simple but also effective.
1. BANANA NOURISHING HAIR TREATMENT: Put a ripe banana, 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of honey in a blender. Blend well and apply this rich concoction on your hair shafts. Olive oil is one of the best known natural moisturizers while honey is a natural humectant. Banana helps minimize contraction while nourishing your hair thoroughly. After 30 minutes, wash it off. Be patient while washing, as banana tends to stick to your hair. Do it once a week for best results.
2. WHOLESOME EGG TREATMENT: Whisk an egg, 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise and a cup of plain yogurt in a bowl and apply the mixture liberally on your hair strands. The natural proteins and vitamins present in egg works wonders in strengthening the hair follicles and bringing about significant reduction in dryness. Yogurt makes hair soft while mayonnaise moisturises your hair. Wait for 45 minutes post application and rinse thoroughly with trepid water and shampoo. This homemade hair treatment can be done twice every week.
3. AVOCADO PROTEIN HAIR TREATMENT: Avocado is a rich storehouse of natural proteins and oils. Mash an avocado and add 5 to 6 drops of peppermint oil. Shampoo your hair, squeeze the water out and apply this mask. Wait for about 20 minutes and rinse well. Hair feels soft, smooth and hydrated.
4. CLASSIC MILK AND HONEY TREATMENT: It is pretty easy to prepare this classic hair mask. Mix two tablespoons of honey to a cup of whole milk and apply this natural hair potion along the length of your hair. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and rinse well. This mask strengthens your hair, moisturises it and rejuvenates dry hair. Do this treatment twice every week to see amazing results.
5. HOT OIL TREATMENT: The homemade hot oil treatment has stood the test of time. Warm up any natural oil of your choice and massage your hair and scalp well. You could use olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil. You may even love to blend two oils in equal amounts and then, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for extra benefits. Follow up with turban therapy and then shampoo. Hair feels soft, moisturized and well-nourished.
Isn’t t easy to attain gorgeous locks just by following a few homemade hair care treatments? Opt for these DIY conditioners and get beautiful and nourished hair, naturally!
Editor’s Note: I so agree with Hot Oil one. I am going to try a few of these for sure, especially milk and honey 🙂 Nice post Somreeta
P.S: Images from Google
Do you follow these at home DIY’s for Deep Conditioning your hair?
Since summer is round the corner, i thought of coming up with something summery. Well, i just love summers. Winters are not my best friend because you have to wear so many clothes in summers and you have to stay all day inside. Winters are quite boring and short. Whereas in summers you get the complete day to yourself. Anyways, let’s not drift away from the topic of summer essentials. Since all the seasons have some or the other staples. So, what’s your staple in summers? Well, for me sunscreen. But i have heard that many people treat perfumes or do as their staple in summer. Well, i am not a perfume girl and so i use perfume too less. But i have heard half of the world going gaga over this perfume. So, i thought of let’s try it out. And thus here follows my review.
Directions to use : Press the nozzle at the top and the splash will dispense out of the hole. Now, spray it on your underarms , handkerchiefs and any other place you like.
What it claims :
Layerr brings you Wottagirl fragrant body splashes; fragrances that will leave you feeling fresh and smelling beautiful.A seductive fusion of ripe oranges and lemons, enveloped in the classic floral sweetness of jasmine.
My experience with Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash
Firstly, let’s talk about the packaging. it comes in really fancy and classy packaging. it is a big glass bottle which is transparent and has attractive designs going on in the body. the product name and other details are on the bottle. the bottle similar to other perfumes has a nozzle like opening which needs to be pressed a bit to bring the perfume out.
The perfume is gaseous in nature which is of course transparent. You cannot see it but just smell it. i remember Layer’r Wottagirl launched some more scents this time. All were quite distinct from one another and yet so good. This one is more like a feminine one and is very classy. It is not at all a troubling smell and stays on for quite long.
Good about Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash
Easy availability
Affordable price
Wide range of choices
Classy packaging
Not irritating on skin
Smells is not bothersome
Lasts entire day
Bad about Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash
Nothing for me
Rating – 5/5
Editor’s Note: Sounds pretty good, I have to try this. Nice Review Pallavi 🙂
Have you tried Layer’r Wottagirl Body Splash before? Any favourites?
Top 10 L’Oreal Paris Products in India, Prices, Buy Online
By Sanchita
L’Oréal Paris is another brand in the Indian market which needs no introduction. Their products, although slightly on the higher side, is always known to deliver the best quality and we can’t stop adoring the huge range and shades they deliver. Having the best fashionista like Sonam Kapoor, Aishwariya Rai Bachchan and Katrina Kaif endorsing the brand, we get to see a lot of trending products. What makes L’Oréal stand out is that they variety. Be it skincare, makeup or hair care – they have been consistent in the unbeatable quality. One plus point is that, the brand is easily accessible across the country. So, today I will compiling the 10 best products from L’Oréal Paris which are simply superb in their own way! Here goes the list.
1. L’Oréal Paris Volume Millions Lashes Mascara (850 INR) (BUY HERE for 773)
L’Oréal Paris Volume Millions Lashes Mascara makes those eye lashes dramatic and audacious to the core. Once you apply this one, you would never go back to the falsies or any other mascara in that case. A power packed mascara that not only add volume but length to the lashes without clumping or being messy. In India, it is available in the shade black and enhances the eye makeup within few coats. In dries up super-fast and counted among the best mascaras ever since it has been released.
2. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Mono Eye Shadows (500 INR)
Available in 10-12 shades, these L’Oréal Paris Infallible Eye Shadows are incredibly pigmented. It comes in a round pot and can also be used as wet eyeshadow pigments. A single layer of the color gives a smoothen look and applies beautifully. The texture is powdery but feels like creamy soft when touched. They are blink proof, crease proof and waterproof completely. Also, it blends seamlessly and stays almost the whole day. A must have product for every eye makeup lover. (P.S: All Night Blue and Endless Chocolate are my absolute favourites and must have. Though I have heard these are discontinued and hence not easily available)
3. L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss Hair color (575 INR) (BUY HERE for 510)
L’Oréal Paris is the most trusted brand we it comes to hair coloring. We are always afraid what would the chemicals to do your hair but trust me, having tried and tested L’Oréal Paris, I just could not dare use another hair color. It is available in 12 shades and astonishingly, all the 12 shades are perfect for Indian beauty. Therefore, there’s no chance you would go wrong with the color. It looks so natural and nourished that we would love using it. The color lasts up to 25washes and conditions the hair like anything. It also provides a glossy shine as well.
4. L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte lipstick (925 INR) (BUY HERE for 620 to 836)
The words ‘moist’ and ‘matte’ are simply enough to steal our attention. The L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte is available in 12 stunning shades and there are some lipsticks with the Limited Edition Swarovski packaging, which is gorgeous to the core. They glide on the lips like butter and very light weight. Though it maintains a certain level of hydration on the lips, it looks semi-matte. The shade Lincoln Rose is one of the popular red (worn a lot by Aishwariya Rai Bachchan) and Arabian Nights which is perfect for fall/winter season. (P.S: I absolutely love Raspberry Syrup and Spring Rossette)
5. L’Oréal Paris Mat Magique Compact Powder (399 INR) (Review, Swatches HERE) (BUY HERE for 358)
In the recent past, L’Oréal Paris launched the budget friendly mat compact in 5 shades (which is rare in the Indian market). The shades are such that everyone would definitely find a suitable match for themselves and works great on the skin to give flawless finish. It absorbs oil well and keeps the skin oil-free for around 6hours or so. It is also enriched with SPF 34 PA+++ to help protect your skin from the sun. This is the perfect one for the upcoming summer.
6. L’Oréal Paris Super Liner Gel Intenza 36H (875 INR) (BUY HERE for 610 to 691)
Gel liners are such a rage these days and L’Oréal came up with the 36H formula of gel liner. It has a gorgeous golden lid and glass pot packaging and also comes with a brush. It is available in 5 different shades which is outstanding. It is creamy and gives such a rich and intense tough to the eyes that you won’t feel like applying anything. It finishes matte and doesn’t cake up at all. The gel liner is also tear-proof, smudge-proof and lasts for the whole day. (P.S: Royal Blue is absolutely amazing)
7. L’Oréal Paris Color Riche L’Extraordinaire Lip Color (950 INR) (BUY HERE for 314 to 758)
If matte lovers adore the Color Riche matte lipsticks, L’Oréal has brought the Color Riche L’Extraordinaire which is a cult favorite among gloss lovers. It offers 13 shades and each has its own beauty. These are something between lipstick and glosses. It provides a magnifying shine and gloss to the lips which rich colors, that of a lipstick and makes a ravishing difference to the lips. It hydrates it thoroughly and quite forgiving for dry and chapped lips. It is non sticky and long lasting than any gloss.
8. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Reno Liquid Foundation (1325 INR) (Review & Swatches HERE) (BUY HERE for 924)
Another star product from L’Oreal Paris. It is one of the best liquid foundations in India currently. Full coverage, photographs beautifully, comes in 11 shades, matte finish, stays put whole day long! If you have weddings/events, etc., then you got to have this foundation.
9. L’Oréal Paris Collection Star Red Lipsticks (INR 995) (Review, Swatches HERE) (BUY HERE for 645 to 746)
Probably the most talked about and raved launches of L’Oréal Paris. Every woman goes weak seeing a red lipstick; L’Oréal went a step ahead and launched 7 stunning red of different variety, endorsed by 7 different celebrities and their signature in the packaging. The lipsticks are intense in pigmentation, rich in texture and screams vanity with every application. The finish is comfortable matte and is a pure indulgence.
10. L’Oréal Paris True Match Foundation (INR 1025) (BUY HERE for 959)
The True Match series of L’Oréal Paris is indeed great – from mineral makeup to concealer but if I have to choose one, I would blindly go for the foundation. It has 11 shades ranging from warm to cool undertones and offers a great finish to the skin. It is so easy to blend and wears just like your natural skin. It gives an oil free natural finish and has medium to buildable coverage. It photographs really well and imparts a flawless touch to the skin.
Editor’s Note: I would also recommend the L’Oreal Paris Base Magique Primer, one of the very good primers available in India currently. And from the new Pink Collection, Julianne, Eva and J.Lo’s shades.
Do let me know your favorite product from L’Oréal Paris.
Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash Review
By Archana
Today, I will be reviewing the second product that I received from Biotique. If you had already read my review of ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub’ and ‘Biotique Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion‘, you would by know what a wonderful product it is and how much am loving it. So I had high expectations from this ‘Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash’ as well. Read on to know how it fares.
Directions to use: Gently massage over wet face & neck with fingertips, lather & rinse, morning and evening.
Packaging:
The face wash comes in a simple white plastic tube with a green flip-open cap. The cap shuts tightly and can be carried around without fear of leakage.
Texture and fragrance:
It is a white color, cream based face wash with a runny consistency. It has a strong herbal fragrance which I don’t like much.
My experience:
This is a cream-based face wash, so it would be more suitable for dry skin people. It lathers well and cleanses the skin effectively. On washing off, it tends to leave a thin filmy residue. This might be useful for dry skin people as it will prevent the skin from becoming stretchy by acting like a layer of moisture. But for combination skin people like me, I feel that, it makes the skin become oily and shiny after some time. Also, I feel the cleansing effect is not sufficient when I travel a lot outside in pollution. But it is a mild and gentle cleanser to be used when you are spending more time indoors. It doesn’t cause any irritations and can be used by even sensitive skin people. Coming to its claims of preventing dark spots, I haven’t really noticed any difference in that. Also, I see the ingredients list contain coconut oil, so acne-prone skin people should skip it.
Pros:
* Mild and gentle cleanser.
* Doesn’t dry out skin.
* Contains goodness of ayurvedic ingredients like neem, wintercherry root, moong seed, etc.
* Suitable for sensitive skin also.
* Very affordable.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.
Cons:
* Not suitable for oily, combination skin types.
* Doesn’t deep cleanse.
* Strong fragrance.
* Dark spot prevention claims are not true.
Price and quantity: Rs.60 for 50ml.
Rating: 3.8/5
Verdict: Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash is a very affordable, mild and gentle cleanser for dry and sensitive skin people. It contains the goodness of many ayurvedic ingredients and is organic and preservative-free. I would recommend dry skin people or those who spend most time indoors and looking for a gentle cleanser to give this a try, but others can skip it.
Editor’s Note: Sounds Ok. I prefer gel based face washes for my combination skin. I don’t like cream based ones that lather a lot. Nicely reviewed 🙂
Have you tried the Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash?
Very recently Kylie Jenner has introduced the personalized Lip kit of hers and the colors are oh-so-amazing! She has been famous for her gorgeous plush pout and it is a brand in itself. Some of the colors are so amazing that you just can’t stop staring at it. Kylie revels that the secret behind her pretty pout is the definition i.e. the lining of lips with a similar colored lip liner with that of the lipstick. She vowed that it makes a radical difference when we use the lip liner with lipstick. Now that we are so smitten with her amazing lips, let us see the possible dupes we can find in India to imitate the pout we have been gushing about.
1. Maroon Lips
Kylie doesn’t shy away from dark lips and I have to admit, the colors are quite unconventional. The color on her lips is stark maroon with a hint of brown undertones. Generally maroons always have a reddish undertones, something like MAC Diva but this one is the different one. For this, I found Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick Matte – Wine Not is the perfect choice. It is matte, similar to that of the picture and gives a nice definition to the lips.
2. Red Lips
Red hot lips is the favorite for very women and Kylie carries it off like a diva. The perfect choice for the color she is wearing would be MAC Ruby Woo, SUGAR Cosmetics Matte As Hell Crayon Scarlet O’Hara and Colorbar Deep Matte Lip Crème Deep Red. All three shades are readily available in the Indian market, they are gorgeous pigmented, matte and brightens up the face like nothing else. Make sure to line the lips with a red lip liner for the perfect pout.
3. Nude Lips
Kylie rocks the neutral lip colors like no other celebrity. She can do minimal eye and lips at the same time and she kill it. My perfect pick for the nude lips, comparable to what she is wearing on the picture would be Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick Undressed and MAC Yash Lipstick. If you are slightly dusky or with medium complexion, try the Colorbar Take me as I am Lip Color Bare Dare Pink. In this color she has a slight sheen on the lips so I am guessing it is a satin finish lipstick. You can dab a thin layer of lip balm to get the sheen on the lips.
4. Soft Pink Lips
A nice everyday muted pink lips. This is a great color even wearable in office. For Indian skin tones, the color would be very close to Chambor Powder Matte Lipstick Desert Rose and Tom Ford Indian Rose. Both the color are matte in texture and all you need is a muted pink lip liner like Colorbar Lip Definer Splendid Pink to line and fill the lips. Then apply the lip color and voila! You are done. Pair it up with a soft kohl look or neutral eyes.
5. Vampy Lips
This one is surely not for faint hearted. A plum black vampy ombre lips is the perfect one for the fall/winter look. For this lip color, you need a darkish maroon lip liner like MAC Nightmoth Lip Pencil or NYX lip liner Currant to line and fill the lips leaving out the centre part of lower lips. Then apply MAC Prince Noir Lipstick, NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Copenhagen or Revlon Super Lustrous – Black Cherry along the lips leaving the centre part of lower lips. Use a brush to merge the color to have that ombre effect.
6. Tea Rose Lips
This is absolutely my favorite one among all her looks. The lipstick gives a soft rosy/tea rose pink touch to the lips and it is up to you whether to wear it as matte or satin finish. You can wear the color literally for anything and everything and you would still look gorgeous. My favorite picks are Estee Lauder Pure Color Lipstick Rose Tea, Faces Canada I Do #11 Ultime Pro Velvet Matte, L’Oreal Color Riche Natural Lipstick in Velvet Rose. You can also wear it as a soft wash of color on the lips. Also, Chambor Powder Matte Lipstick in Sugar Pink is a very close dupe of this color and looks great on Indian skin.
7. Glossy Brown Nude Lips
A nude glossy brown with smoky look is the terrific combination. I loved how Kylie carried off the soft black-brown smoky eyes, flawless base with a slight wash of earthy blush on cheeks and the glossy nude brown lips. For the lips, the only thing I came close to is the MAC Half ‘n Half Amplified Creme Lipstick. It gives a smooth shine to the lips and extremely long wearing.
8. Dark Brown Lips
I really had a tough time finding a dupe of this one. The color is a pure dark brown color with no undertones whatsoever. Generally a brown always comes with an undertone to suit the complexion but the one Kylie is wearing is totally unconventional. Thanks to the humongous range of MAC lipsticks, I found that MAC Antique Velvet and MAC Lady Mystery are the closest dupe for this one. The color is so loud in itself that the cheeks and eyes has to be kept very minimal.
9. Signature Kylie Jenner Lip Color
The ultimate lip color for which we applause her like a diva. For the lip liner part, I would advise to go for the Colorbar Lip Pencil Nude Pink. Then apply the Colorbar Deep Matte Lip Crème – Deep Earth or MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick and dab a thin layer of lip balm. This is the lip color you can wear anytime of the day and still look gorgeous. The color is such that it would suit each and every Indian skin tones. A totally bang on color!
10. Earthy Mauve Lips
The last one is the stark matte earthy mauve lip color. Also, a great color for the fair to medium skin tones. For this, first you need something that resembles MAC Whirl lip liner to line and fill the lip completely. Next, apply the MAC Twig Lipstick all over the lips. Blot it with a tissue and dust some translucent powder on top of it. This will give a stunning matte finish to the lips and also make it long lasting.
Editor’s note: Those are some fabulous dupes Sanchita. I would like to recommend a few Kylie Jenner shades in general: Maybelline Lip Gradation in Mauve, Colorbar Kiss Proof Lip stain in Mauve Dusk and Haute Latte, Colorbar Deep Matte Lip Cream in Deep Cocoa, Miss Claire Soft Matte Lip Cream in 09, 17 and 17A, Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm in Sultry. I know there are still many but could only think of these few for now 😀 I will update this post whenever I come across more Kylie Jenner dupes, so keep a check on this post.
Do you like Kylie Jenner’s lip shades? Also add your dupes in the comments below.
Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review
Hi guys,
Today I am reviewing the Sedona Lace Vortex Brush Set which I have since quite some time now, I got it around the time when I was shifting and I kept them safely somewhere. And the place was so safe that I just couldn’t find them :/ Happens with you too? Let me know in the comments below.
Anyhoo, I finally found them and have been using them since some time. I have even used them in a makeup tutorial which will be coming up soon.
What the Company claims: The Synthetic Vortex Collection exclusively designed by Renelyn Monteloyola of Makeup by Ren Ren for Sedona Lace. This pro line of brushes takes makeup application and technique to the next level. All of the brushes are multi-purpose and versatile. The pink and black colors on the bristles is a registered trade mark of Sedona Lace
MRP: $109.95
You can get the zipper belt at an additional cost of $10. So the brush set with zipper belt costs $119.95 (Buy HERE). I also have a special coupon code (without expiry i.e. lasts lifetime) for you guys where you can get $4 off on a minimum order of $15 on www.sedonalace.com , so if you want to buy just 1-2 brushes, still you can use that. The coupon code is ‘newlove’
I absolutely love the pink and black color to start with and that is a registered trademark of Sedona Lace. You get 13 brushes in total out of which one i.e. the angled brow shaper and spoolie is dual sided.
The brushes are all odd numbered from F01 to F23. Let’s start with the Face Brushes first.
FB01 is a jumbo fan brush which is the softest brush I have ever used! I just cannot stop touching it and it is perfect for dusting your powder or just cleaning your face or to apply highlighter on the high points of face, or your blush or contour.
FB03 is Tulip Contour Brush which is the perfect brush ever for contour coz it will perfectly fit in the hollow of your cheeks. Also this brush is great for diffusing your over done blush or highlighter or just give a final finish to the face.
FB05 is Dome Contour brush. It’s a multi tasking brush, apply your blush, contour or powders or powder foundation or buff in your high coverage cream/liquid foundations. This one will work with everything.
FB07 is a Flat Top Buffer Brush. Now flat top buffing brushes are perfect for foundations, be it cream/liquid/powder. Set your concealer with powder or use it on places to bake for precisely placing powders. Again multi purpose but best for foundations.
Coming to the eye brushes now,
EB09 is the Universal Blender brush which is good for applying shadows all over the lid and even blending for softer, diffused looks. Like a soft everyday brown eye makeup look or times when you just want to use one shade and sweep it across and blend the same.
EB11 is the Flat Synthetic Brush for applying metallic, glittery shadows and pigments on the lid i.e. mostly for patting shadows and not blending or sweeping them. Or even for applying your eyeshadow primer/base and concealer under the eyes. Also works to contour the sides of your nose.
EB13 is the Synthetic Blender brush. It has more dense and tapered bristles, it is absolutely perfect to blend your crease colors and create those dark smokey eyes.
EB15 is the Pointed Crease brush. It can be used for your cut crease looks or for looks where you don’t want to over blend or merge colors but just a softer edge.
EB17 is the Brow Spoolie Duo. Apply powder on the brows using the angled side and brush through with the spoolie to set it in place or diffuse the powder for a softer brow.
EB19 is the Bent Liner Brush. Now we do get it separately too in a few brands here like in Inglot and PAC Cosmetics. I had done a DIY long back with my Audrey Liner Brush by bending it a bit and the bent shape helps a lot in lining your eyes easily without getting in between the lashes.
EB21 is the Detailed Shader brush which is good for highlighting the brow bone or the inner corners or even smudging shadows on the lower lashline.
EB23 is the Angled Detailed Brush which can be used for gel liners or applying powder eyeshadows as liners on upper and lower lashline.
And lastly LB25 the Capped Lip Brush, it comes with a separate steel cap and can be folded and carried along. You can just remove the cap and place it below and use it like a normal lip brush. Good to carry along and precisely apply your lip colors especially the reds and deep berries which need precision.
So these were all the 13 brushes in the Vortex Synthetic Kit. I highly recommend getting the zipper belt if you are a makeup artist, coz the belt snuggly fits around your waist and you can pick up any brush you want and place it in the belt while working on a client.
And if you are just a beginner, you can go for this set without the belt. These brushes are all you will ever need for any makeup look. If you have these, you are pretty much sorted. I highly recommend these brushes and the quality is fabulous too. Super soft and the bristles hardly shed hair, majority of the brushes which I own as part of brush sets shed hair crazily!
Thumbs up from me, also if you can wait, they keep having offers on Black Friday, etc., where they sell these sets at half the price!! All the brushes from the set are pretty useful and it is total value for money. I did not have to pay customs on this. Shipping cost varies on distance and weight but they usually use USPS.
I personally love these and have been reaching out for these brushes quite often. I have 2-3 brush sets and none matches the Sedona Lace quality wise. It is very essential to have one good quality makeup brush set in your stash coz good quality brushes will make or break your entire makeup look. And if you invest in expensive makeup and the tools you use do not justify that, then the end result would not be good, trust me.
Let me know your thoughts on the Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Brush Set in the comments below.
Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion Review
By Archana
Today, I will be reviewing the last product in the ‘Flawless Skin Regimen’ from Biotique. I have already reviewed the scrub from this range ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub‘. Today’s review is their moisturiser ‘Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion’ which is the last step in the routine.
Products claims:
Nectar is the sweet fluid that flowering plants produce each day, used to sustain ageless beauty from the beginning of time. This lightening and nourishing lotion is blended with pure honey, wheatgerm and seaweed. It sinks into skin to replace natural oils and replenish lost moisture for a noticeably fresher, fairer complexion.
Directions to use:
Apply evenly over cleansed face and neck, morning and evening. Wear alone or under makeup.
Packaging:
The lotion comes in a sleek white plastic bottle with a green screw cap. Earlier the bottle used to have a wide mouth which dispenses lot of product leading to wastage. Now they have revamped the packaging and given a small hole for dispensing. But still I think, a flip-open cap would have been lot easier and convenient than a screw cap, for a lotion. The bottle is housed in an outer carton which has all the details.
Texture and fragrance:
It is a white color lotion with a medium consistency, neither too thick nor too runny. It has a herbal fragrance which is little strong, but not as strong as the face wash. The fragrance fades after sometime of applying.
My experience:
This is actually a face lotion as I read from the directions of use. But I found it too heavy for my face as makes it greasy. So I have been using it as a body lotion every night. For day time use, I still feel its greasy and heavy as a body lotion too, as now summers have started and its very hot and humid. Also, this doesn’t have SPF, so I need to use separate sunscreen lotion again. But I find it perfect for night time use as I need something more nourishing then. It deeply moisturizes skin and makes it soft and smooth. If you have very dry skin, then you can use it as a face lotion as well. Especially in winters, this will provide intense nourishment and help repair dry skin. Regarding its lightening claims, using it along with the Tan Removal Scrub regularly can help improve the skin complexion, due to the goodness of various ayurvedic ingredients. One thing that I noticed though was the complete ingredients list is not mentioned. Apart from the ayurvedic ingredients, it is just mentioned as Lotion Base – Q.S. I wish herbal and organic brands come clean with the full ingredients list. As a consumer, we should be able to know what we are putting on our skin, right?
Pros:
* Excellent moisturiser for dry skin.
* Nourishes deeply and repairs skin.
* Makes skin soft and smooth.
* Contains goodness of various ayurvedic ingredients which help improve complexion.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.
Cons:
* Little strong fragrance.
* No SPF.
* Packaging could have been better with a flip-open cap.
Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 120ml.
Rating: 4/5
Verdict: Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion provides deep moisturization and nourishment and makes skin smooth and soft. Dry skin people can use it on face too. But others can use it as a body lotion. It might feel heavy to be used in daytime in summers, but its perfect as a night lotion and during winters, it can be used even in daytime. Overall, the ‘Flawless Skin Regimen’ from Biotique containing 3 products – face wash, scrub and lotion is worth a try, considering its affordable prices and also that they are organic and preservative free.
Editor’s Note: I absolutely loved using Morning Nectar in winters and during night time. As my skin is combination and this lotion is quite hydrating, I skip it in summers. But it’s a boon in winters, no dryness or patchiness at all.
Have you tried Biotique Morning Nectar Lotion yet?
Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Color Moods in Maroon Review, Swatches
By Sanchita
INTRODUCTION – Hello everyone! No matter how many lip colors you have in your kitty, you are always looking for an exceptional shade which will give us the desired oomph factor. The same applies for me too! There is one particular shade I have been eyeing on is the MAC Diva which is an exquisite shade for Indian skin tone. However, with MAC hiking the price tag I was little skeptical to buy a lipstick which I will be wearing once in a blue moon! Surprisingly, I stumbled into a very close shade of MAC Diva with a price tag less than 200bucks! The color looks stunning and a great option if you are looking for a close dupe. Let’s see the product in detail.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – This moisture rich lip color nourishes and protects your lips from dryness. The unique coriander and basil extract with SPF-15 gives you a full coverage look with satin, smooth finish, and long wear texture. It is available in 29 shades.
PRICE – 175 INR for 4g
MY REVIEW
Packaging – The Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Colors comes in a sleek matte black bullet packaging with an opaque body. There is a nice silver ring around the body and the brand name is engraved in silver while the shade name is written at the bottom. The packaging overall is simple, neat and sturdy. It doesn’t look anything like low-priced or inefficient and also compact enough to carry in your bag or purse while travelling.
Shade – it is a beautiful deep wine red with a subtle plum undertone to it. It also has fine golden shimmer but it is close to indistinguishable while application on the lips or even in the swatches. The color is no doubt a bold and intense color for the fall season and looks gorgeous on any Indian skin tone or complexion. If you are slightly unconvinced with the ox blood lips yet wants to have an attempt at it, try this color. Also, it will be an excellent choice for brides as well.
Texture – the texture of the lip color is satin which is neither completely matte nor glossy. The presence of almond oil and vitamin E ensure the smooth gliding of the color onto the lips and it doesn’t tug or pull at all. The texture has the tendency to dry out (not like patchy lips) and hence be sure to apply lip balm underneath. It has a slight smell to it but it fades off within 5-6mins of the application. However, since it is a bold lip color it is strongly advisable to exfoliate the lips well before applying.
Finish – the finish is satin moist which goes on to comfortable matte look with the passage of hours. It also has a nice sheen to it due to the presence of gold flickers which is only visible after it wears of or while you are trying to remove it. The color looks striking despite the presence of and the hardly accentuates to fine lines. It does transfer a lot to cups and spoons in case you have not worn it like matte. To make it matte, simply blot with a tissue and dust some translucent powder on top. The lip color has SPF 15 which protects the lips from sun rays during daytime.
Pigmentation – the pigmentation is unbelievingly great! Single swipe give you the best desired color on the lips and I use 2 swipes to give a neat and presentable look to the lips. It is capable to hide any kind of pigmented layer on the lips and concealing them prior application with a concealer isn’t required at all. It applies without any patchy or uneven way and doesn’t bleed at all. Even then, I use a lip liner because it is such a bold color that a single stray line would be very noticeable.
Staying Power – the staying power is again commendable. It stayed on the lips for a good 4-5hours with very minimal fading because I munched on some snacks. It cannot survive heavy meals and you definitely require a nice layering or touch ups after that. It takes a long time to fade off completely but I have never experienced any patchy residual layer with this lip color. The color also does not stain the lips and all you need is a good makeup remover or coconut oil to take off the color at the end of the day.
Dupe – I found MAC Diva and L’Oréal Collections Star Pure Reds Lipstick in Pure Garnet is the closest dupe for this color. While Diva and Pure Garnet has very strong reddish or maroon undertones, completely matte and devoid of any shimmer, this lip color from Coloressence has a slight plum undertones, satin finish and very fine golden sheen to it.
OVERALL – With such a bold color, satin finish texture and a popular dupe of MAC Diva and Pure Garnet, I would opine that the economical price tag makes it a winner from every perspective.
WHAT I LIKED
Neat, simple and sturdy packaging.
Moods in Maroon is a bold deep wine red with a subtle plum undertone to it. It also has fine golden shimmers but they are totally undetectable.
A great bold red for Indian skin tones and especially for brides.
The color payoff is excellent with a single swipe itself.
It doesn’t look cakey at all.
The presence of almond oil and vitamin E ensure the smooth gliding of the color onto the lips
The finish is satin moist.
It neither accentuates on fine lines nor bleeds without liner.
The lip color has SPF 15.
The staying power is around 4-5hours.
Economical price tag.
A very close (not complete) dupe of MAC Diva and L’Oréal Collections Star Pure Reds Lipstick in Pure Garnet.
WHAT I DISLIKED
May dry out lips if not exfoliated well and moisturized.
Shimmers are unnecessary.
Transfers a lot if not worn matte.
RATING – 4.7/5
RECOMMENDATION – this is definitely a highly suggested color because the quality as well as the color is a stand out surprise for me! Given the fact that it is such a great and economical dupe of two famous lips colors, surely give this a try.
Editor’s Note: I absolutely love how it looks on you! I would check out the other 28 shades too.
Have you tried the Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Color yet?
Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub Review
By Archana
Am sure most of you are familiar with the brand Biotique. Their products are based on Ayurvedic recipes and are organic and preservative free. It is also againt animal testing. Plus Biotique products are very affordable as well and easily available everywhere. I was recently sent few Biotique products to review. Today’s post is on one of their most popular and raved about products ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub’. Read on to know more.
Products claims:
This Revitalizing Tan-Removal scrub is blended with pure papaya fruit to dissolve dead surface cells, unclog pore openings and smooth the way for clear skin to surface. Gentle refining action uncovers skin’s natural brightness for a younger-looking complexion.
Ingredients:
Papita (Carica papaya), Kela (Musa sapientum), Khajoor (Phoenix dactylifera), Neem (Melia azadiradrachita), Methi (Trgonelia foenum graecum), Yasad bhasm (Zincum), Ban haldi (Curcuma aromatica), Aam beej (Magnifela indica), Bees wax, Gun acacia (Acacia arabica), Moongphali (Archis hypogea), Himalayan water Q.S.
Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 75g.
Directions to use:
Massage on wet face and neck with fingertips. Avoid eye area. Remove with water or damp washcloth. Use daily or as needed.
Packaging:
The scrub comes in a small white tub packaging with a green lid. There is an inner lid for protection and to prevent spillage. They have revamped the packaging now. Earlier it used to be all green with a sleeker tub. But still I feel a tube packaging would have been better than a tub.
Texture and fragrance:
It is a muddish-gray colored scrub with a thick consistency. The granules are tiny and black in color. It has a lovely fruity fragrance of papaya.
My experience:
This is neither a regular cream based scrub nor gel based. It is actually a clay based scrub which makes it perfect for a face pack also. The granules are medium, not very coarse nor very mild, perfect for exfoliation. But if you have very sensitive skin, be gentle and apply only little pressure. It removes dead cells and deep cleanses pores, making skin smooth and polished. Being clay based, it also absorbs excess oil and tightens skin. Regarding its tan removal claims, they are absolutely true. I could see the difference right in the first use. It managed to remove majority of the tan and made my skin bright. I also use it on my arms and feet to get rid of tan. Although, it is mentioned in instructions that it can be used daily, I think it might be little harsh for everyday use. Two or three times a week would be fine.
Pros:
* Removes dead cells and deep cleanses pores.
* Makes skin smooth and polished.
* Absorbs excess oil.
* Removes majority of tan in just one use.
* Affordable.
* Nice fruity fragrance.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.
Cons:
* Tub packaging is unhygienic.
Rating: 4.9/5
Verdict: Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub is an amazing scrub for exfoliation as well as tan removal. It is suitable for all skin types. For the very affordable price and also being organic and preservative free, I would definitely recommend this scrub to everyone.
Editor’s Note: I have used this and loved it! Definitely getting it again. Nice review Archana 🙂
