Tag Archives: Indian makeup and beauty blog

The Perfect Engagement Look – Indian Weddings

The Perfect Engagement Look – Indian Weddings

Hi guys,

Today we are talking about the perfect engagement look i.e. the makeup, hairstyle and the jewellery. Let me share a few engagement looks you can opt for:

The Perfect Engagement , Indian bridal Blog, Indian Makeup and Beauty Blog

1. Traditional Look

The traditional look would be the basic gold/bronze/copper eyes and a dash of green/purple/blue according to your outfit. Match it with a hot pink lipstick and soft curls for the hair. You can part hair at the centre for the maang tikka and add a nice necklace to finish the look. This look is perfect for a daytime engagement look. Also don’t forget to add false lashes, I had used them too! And they make a lot of difference.

2. Fun & Girly

If it’s a small ‘family only’ function and you are wearing a simple anarkali, you can go for neutral brown/gold eyes and soft peach lips. An updo with curls on the side would look great and a maang tikka with heavy statement earrings will finish the look. You can skip the necklace here as you don’t want the ‘over done’ look.

3. Boho Chic

For the modern boho bride, you can opt for a messy fishtail bride and accessorize it with a necklace. Soft brown eyeshadow, winged liner and matte red lips on the makeup front. Wear a bindi to finish the look. Polki necklace and earrings are the perfect match with this look.

4. Modern Evening Look

If you have a night time engagement cum party kind of a function. opt for a gown and a glamorous night time look is your best bet. A nice messy bun and smokey eyes with nude lips are perfect. Go for nice statement chandelier earrings and a cocktail statement ring.

Few things to keep in mind:

1. Don’t over spray your hair, it is quite visible and looks made up. I had gone for soft curls with a pouf and my hair is way too soft, I had to spray a lot to keep them in place and trust me, it doesn’t look good in person.

2. Contouring looks good in pictures but you would be meeting a lot of people personally, so don’t over contour, keep it very light and natural.

3. If you opt for false lashes, go for very natural looking ones and not too over sized or dramatic. Also make sure they are glued and stuck well, you don’t want them to come off in the midst of your function.

4. Nails, it will be all about your ring and the hands 😉 Well manicured nails with some pretty nail art and you will get amazing pictures. I went with the classic French manicure, coz I believe they look beautiful with the mehendi. You can also add rhinestones or some floral studs on the white French.

5. Bangles, this is the day when you go all out. They look pretty and complete your entire outfit and look beautifully.

6. You can also add a waist belt/jooda if you are wearing a saree or lehenga.

You can always mix and match the above looks, you need not stick to any single style. I had opted for tight curls with a pouf on top for my engagement. I did not go for a maang tikka but just necklace and earrings and of course lots of bangles. Makeup wise, I went with a mix of bronze and brown with hint of blue as my outfit was blue. Soft pink lips and a small bindi completed my look.

Three things that you must do for any look:

  • Dewy, highlighted skin
  • Filled eye brows
  • False Eyelashes

Rest is upto you and your outfit 🙂

Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 Review

Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 Review

By Archana

Today, I will be reviewing another product from the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow range which is the Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25. I have already reviewed the serum (Read HERE) from the same range and I had been using this day cream together with the serum for synergic effect. Read on to know how it fares.

Products claims:

WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a breakthrough formulation from Lotus Herbals that lightens, whitens & brightens your skin tone.

* Lightens: It lightens skin’s tone by reducing uneven pigmentation.

* Whitens: It unveils visibly fairer skin by reducing dark spots.

* Brightens: It enhances skin’s radiance naturally.

Why Gel Creme: WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme is a revolutionary fairness solution that incorporates the advantages of a gel and a creme.

* Spreads easily on your skin.

* Advanced formula allows for better delivery of active ingredients.

* Good for all skin types including oily and combination skin.

How it works: Clinical trials show that the following plant extracts lighten, whiten and brighten the skin with 7 days of regular use:

* Grape Extract (Vitis Vinifera): Exfoliator – helps active ingredients penetrate into the skin.

* Mulberry Extract (Triter Penoids, Phenyl Flavones): Tyrosinase inhibitor.

* Milk Enzyme: Blocks melanin pathways.

* Saxifraga Extract (Epigallocatechin): Free radical scavenger & tyrosinase inhibition.

Why WhiteGlow?

WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening range is a breakthrough formula from Lotus Herbals. It comes with an advance formula that has triple action on skin – lightening, whitening & brightening. It is enriched with rare fruit and potent plant extracts that penetrate deep into the skin to provide enduring action. The result, your skin looks fairer, flawless and radiant. It is free from harsh chemicals, that generally have side effects.

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Use every day in the morning & evening all over face & neck after cleansing thoroughly with Whiteglow 3 in 1 Deep Cleansing Skin Whitening Facial Foam. For synergic effect, use in conjunction with Whiteglow Intensive Skin Whitening & Brightening Serum.

Packaging: The day cream comes in a convenient, squeezable tube packaging with a grey screw cap. There is an outer carton box with all the details of the product printed on it. The entire packaging is compact and travel-friendly. I carry it in my handbag to office and use it in the afternoon for freshening up. There is also a bigger size which comes in a tub-like packaging. But, I prefer tubes over tub as they are more hygienic, so I got this.

Texture and fragrance: Now, actually I expected this to be a gel-based creme from the product name. But it turned out to be not a gel, but a regular cream. I don’t have any issues with that, but I feel that the name is misleading. Someone who is particular about getting a gel creme, might end up with this on seeing the name. Coming to the cream, it is milky white in color with a very light consistency. The fragrance is like the signature Whiteglow range scent, a subtle mix of floral and fruity.

My experience: I have been using this day cream in conjuction with the serum from the same range. The cream is very light and gets absorbed easily without leaving behind any greasiness or stickiness. It also hydrates the skin well, though very dry skin people might need something more. There is a light dewy effect which I love. Unlike other whitening creams, it doesn’t leave behind any whitish cast. It basically performs the role of a day cream well – moisturizes without making face oily and has SPF 25 for sun protection. But apart from that, I haven’t observed any other whitening or brightening effect. To test the efficacy of this, I stopped the serum for a week and was using only this day cream. And there was no visible results as such. I feel the serum and the night cream are the most effective ones in this Whiteglow range. If you wish to try only one or two products from this range, I would recommend only these two. The day cream and face wash can be used additionally for a synergic effect. But alone, they are not helpful much for whitening or brightening.

Pros:

* Light and easily absorbed.

* Moisturizes and hydrates skin well.

* Doesn’t cause oiliness or greasiness.

* Contains SPF-25 for sun protection.

* Gives a nice dewy effect.

* Compact, travel-friendly packaging.

* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.

* Doesn’t cause breakouts.

* Suitable for all skin types.

Cons:

* Parabens.

* No whitening or brightening effects as claimed.

* Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin people.

* Its a cream, not gel. Misleading name.

Price and quantity: Rs.99 for 20g and Rs.345 for 60g.

Rating: 4.2/5

Verdict: Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme SPF-25 is a good day cream for all skin types. It moisturizes skin well without causing any oiliness and also has SPF-25 for sun protection. Two things to be noted are – one, don’t get fooled by its name of gel, its actually a cream, but light in texture. Secondly, there is no whitening/brightening effect as claimed.

Editor’s Note: I really like the sound of the Lotus Herbals White Glow Range, nice review Archana 🙂

Best of 2015: Makeup

Best of 2015: Makeup

Hi Guys,

After sharing the skin and hair favourites, it’s time for makeup. This year for me has been all about winged liner, no kohl, no gloss, matte bright lips. Here are my 2015 makeup favourites..

See my previous years’ favourites here:

Also check out a list of 18 everyday skincare and makeup products within a budget ofRs.5000/- with their reasons HERE

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

Face:

Primer: Haven’t really used much of primer this year, but still love this Too Faced Primed and Poreless 

Foundation:

Liquid: L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Foundation, Revlon Nearly Naked, Za True White Liquid Foundation, Za Perfect Fit Liquid Foundation (Lovee it!)

Powder: The Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Loose Powder FoundationSheer Cover Mineral Powders

BB Cream: MUA BB Cream

CC Cream: Kaya CC Cream

Concealer:

Cream: Khuraira Age Control Concealer

Liquid: Maybelline Dream Lumitouch ConcealerLakme Absolute Face Stylist Concealer

Pressed Powder/Compact: Lakme Absolute Face Stylist Compact, L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique, Maybelline White Super Fresh

Blush:

Cream: Oriflame Beauty Studio Artist Cream BlushBobbi Brown Pot Rouge,Illasmasqua Velvet Blusher Flirtatious, MUA Cream Blush

Powder: Deborah Milano Hi Tech Blush Rose Pesca, Illamasqua Powder Blush, MAC Bite of an AppleSleek MakeUP Rose Gold,Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush 

Contour: Sleek MakeUP Face Form Palette, Revlon Nearly Naked in Deep

Bronzer: MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer, Sleek MakeUP Face Form Palette, Lakme Absolute Sun Kissed Bronzer

Highlighter: Revlon Highlighting Palette in Bronze GlowRouge Bunny Rouge Seas of Illumination Highlighting Liquid Sea of Showers and Colorbar Illuminator Pen (Liquid), Lioele Jewel Mix Marble Skin Finish and Facefront Autofocus Flashlite Highlight Powder (Powder), Sleek MakeUP Glo Highlighter Peach Shimmer, Laura Mercier Illuminator Stick in Golden Honey Glow, MUA Undress your skin Shimmer Highlighter

Eyes:

Eyeshadow Base: NYX Eyeshadow Base in Skintone, Too Faced Shadow Insurance in Normal and Candelight (Best !), MAC Paint Pot in Constructivist

Eyeshadows:

Palettes: Sleek Makeup Eye & Cheek Palette in Dancing Till DuskToo faced Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow CollectionSleek MakeUP Arabian Nights PaletteToo Faced Shadow Bon Bons PaletteMaybelline Chai Latte QuadToo Faced Naked PaletteSleek MakeUP Sparkle 2 Palette, Sleek MakeUP Oh So Special Palette, Sleek MakeUP Showstoppers and Vintage Romance Palette, MUA Undressed,Undress Me Too and Heaven and Earth Palettes, Stila In the Light Palette (I haven’t tried Maybelline The Nudes or L’Oreal Paris LA Palette Nude yet, but both are pretty decent for the price and availability in India)

Singles: MAC RompMAC Bronze, Inglot Eyeshadow Refills (Have some 7-8..love all !),The Body Shop Color Crush Eyeshadows, Liz Earle Eyeshadow Chestnut, L’oreal Infallible Endless Chocolate and All Night BlueBourjois Intense Extrait Eyeshadow 7,Annika Maya Shimmer Powder, Ellis Faas Creamy Eyes, Stila Eyeshadow Diamond Lil, Illamasqua Pure Pigment Beguile, Colorbar EyeshadowsMaxfactor Earth Spirits Eyeshadow Burnt Bark

Cream: Oriflame The One Cream EyeshadowsMaybelline Color Tattoo Cream Eyeshadows (Bad to the Bronze is my fav), MAC Paint Pot in Constructivist, Faces Ultime Pro Eye Shadow Crayon

Eye Liners:

Gel: L’Oreal Paris Gel Intenza Gel liners, MAC Blacktrack

Pencil: Plum Goodness NaturStudio Kohl

Jumbo Liners: NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils

Liquid/Pen: Maybelline Colossal Liner this time (hands down)

Mascara: Maybelline Colossal Volume, Maybelline Falsies, L’oreal Volume Million Lashes Mascara, Oriflame Volume Build Mascara, Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Kohl/Kajal: MAC Powerpoint Pencil in Engraved, Lakme Absolute Kohl Ultimate, New Maybelline Colossal Kajal, Plum Goodnes NaturStudio All Day Wear Kajal, MAC Feline

Eyebrow: Maybelline Fashion Brow Duo Shaper

Lips:

Lip Primer: Too Faced Lip Insurance Lip Primer

Lip Liner: Bourjois Levres Contour Lip Liner Enjoleuse, Catrice Lip Liner

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

Lipsticks: MAC Ruby Woo, L’Oreal Paris Pure Reds, Lakme Absolute Sculpt Matte LipsticksL’Oreal Paris Infallible Lipsticks, Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks, Maybelline ColorShow Lipsticks, Oriflame The One Matte Lipsticks, Colorbar Darkened Summer Matte Touch Lipsticks, Illasmaqua Glamore LipsticksBobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color Rose BrownMaybelline Bold Matte Lipstick in Mat 2Avon Ultra Color LipsticksShiseido Perfect Rouge Gilded WineMAC Lipstick in Cosmo and Speak LouderSleek MakeUP True Color Lipstick in Loved Up

Lip Matte Creams: Colorbar Kiss Proof Lip Stain

Lip Palettes: Sleek MakeUP Lip4 Palettes

Lip Gloss: (Did not use much of lip gloss this year)

Nails: Maybelline Colorshow, LYN Nail Lacquers

Perfumes/Fragrances: The Body Shop Red Musk EDP, Calvin Klein Eternity Now EDP

Makeup Technique: Strobing, Ombre Lip

What are your 2015 makeup favourites ? Do we share common favourites ? Let me know in the comments below.

5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal series, today’s topic is the fabrics and colours that are perfect for weddings in the winter season. Fabric is the most important when it comes to Indian ethnic wear; also it should be something you are comfortable with, because comfort is most important when it comes to the heavy wedding attire.

There are different options to choose from like organza, mal, suede, silk, crepe, chiffon, georgette, etc. It is quite confusing for a bride to be honest. However, fret not, let me list down the best options for you according to the current wedding season.

1. Organza

Organza is one of the most fluid fabrics and it falls beautifully. It is perfect for the sleeves or as the top layer of your skirt/ghagra/lehenga. It looks amazing as a jacket or cape too. Zardozi work looks beautiful on the organza fabric.

2. Silk

One of the most used fabrics in Indian ethnic wear is silk. There are different types within silk like raw silk, cotton silk, etc. Raw silk looks the best when it comes to choli or the blouse. You can even wear an entire anarkali or ghagra choli of silk.

3. Crepe

Crepe works well for sarees and tunics. Crepe sarees look beautiful, even on curvy women as it gives shape and definition to the body and does not make one look bulky. Long crepe jackets are also a good option for winters.

4. Mal

Mal fabric is the softest and most comfortable for any attire. It is perfect for daytime weddings, though it is slightly on the expensive side, but, for days when you have to be out for a ceremony whole day, mal fabric outfit would be your best bet.

5. Velvet

Velvet is also a perfect fabric for winters. You can add it on the choli’s sleeves or as a thick border for your bottoms.

Coming to colours now…

1. Powder Pink/Blush Pink/Onion Pink

Pastel shades of pink are “in” this season and they look beautiful. Matched up with contrasting colours like navy blue and purple for the bottoms or borders, it makes the outfit stand out.

2. Bright shade of yellow

Oh yes! The sunshine yellow with floral print and appliqué style looks beautiful. Add gota patti border and it notches up the outfit. It is perfect for your mehendi/chooda ceremony. You can easily buy the fabric border and get it stitched as per your design.

3. Ivory/Toasted Almond

Now, ivory is not something you can wear for your functions as light shades are not really considered a good sign by some, but, you can definitely include it in your trousseau. Match it up with a bright red in a saree or anarkali and stand out, on a silk base.

4. Tangerine

Tangerine/Orange is my favourite! Bright orange paired with sunshine yellow/pink looks beautiful. You can go for a lehenga/anarkali in those shades with dull gold zardozi work on it.

5. Emerald Green

Emerald/jewel green is also “in” this season. It compliments lighter colours and makes for a nice contrast. Polki jewellery looks beautiful with an outfit that has a hint of green.

What are your favourite fabrics and colors for winter weddings?

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Gineplex Anti-Ageing Skin Care Range Review

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Gineplex Anti-Ageing Skin Care Range Review

Hi guys,

If you follow me on Snapchat (add me if you are not following yet! bhumika_t 😀 ) you might be knowing that I had taken up the Lotus Herbals #ReverseYourAge 1 month challenge. We had to click selfies every week for the difference to be visible on the skin. I have been using this entire range for around a month now and here is my review.

Let me tell you something about this range and what is common throughout the range. It comes in this pretty gold and purple packaging, the packaging is quite nice. Most of the stuff are easy to carry around, except the jars which are made of glass and kind of heavy. The serum bottle is also made of glass but it is very very thick and not something that will break easily.

The main ingredients in the entire Gineplex range are Ginger, Ginseng and Milk Peptide complex (Hence the name Gineplex) which are the key ingredients in anti-ageing + hydration+ firming. The entire kit costs around Rs.3000/-

Lotus Youth Rx Active Anti-Ageing Foaming Gel

Benefits : –

* Prevent signs of ageing.
* Reveals a glowing complexion instantly.
* Enhances skin renewal and restores elasticity.

How To Apply :-

* Apply with wet hands massage gently on to the Face & neck.
* Massage gently for 2 -3 minutes.
* Rinse well.

Active Ingrdients :- Jojoba seeds, ginseng, ginger, milk peptide complex.

Results :- Skin looks and feels fresh, soft and revitalized

Price: Rs.225/- for 100 gm

Ingredients:

It has a rotating cap packaging and is off white in color, has a texture mix of gel-creme and has small, brown jojoba seeds. It does not foam much but cleanses all the dirt, grime and basic makeup. It feels more like a scrub than face wash. I do not like foam based face washes, so this is just perfect for me. It does not dry the skin at all and the gentle exfoliation removes the dry skin flakes in winter. It is absolutely perfect for winter and I love this face wash/foaming gel. It is not meant for people who love heavy duty foaming though.

Lotus Herbals Youth RX PH Balancing Multi Active Toner

MRP: Rs.325/- for 100ml

Ingredients:

The toner comes in a plastic bottle with a spray nozzle and a cap. 2 pumps are perfect, I mostly use it directly taking it on my palms and not use a cotton pad, works both ways. I absolutely love this toner, it is alcohol free and non drying. Plus it has green tea and castor oil which in turn tighten your pores and hydrate your skin. This toner again is perfect for winters and for dry skin too. One of the best toners currently in India. This toner balances the pH level of your skin and brings it to the normal 5.5

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Youth Activating Serum + Crème

It contains the highest concentration of the revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’ which gives it 10 times the anti-ageing power of a day crème. It’s a 2-in-1 formula of Serum + Crème –

1. Serum penetrates the skin quickly and delivers 10X* more ‘GINEPLEX YOUTH COMPOUND’ to the dermal layer, boosting collagen production.

2. Crème nourishes, hydrates and restores skin moisture.

MRP: Rs.695/- for 30ml

Ingredients:

One of my most favourite product from this range. It comes in a very thick glass bottle with a cap and a pump dispensor. Again a mix of gel+cream consistency. It is very light and gets absorbed into the skin in a jiffy. I just need one pump and it hydrates and nourishes the skin. I can even skip a cream post using this, coz it hydrates wonderfully even in these winters. Skin feels soft and smooth instantly.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti-Ageing Transforming Creme SPF25PA+++

It is a ‘Green Science’ miracle. It comes with the breakthrough ‘Gineplex Youth Compund’ derived from potent natural ingredients and is clinically proven for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. It is enriched with SPF 25 PA+++ for protection against sun damage which results in ageing of skin.

Results: Visibly reduces appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, spots in 7 days* Makes skin look firmer, younger and glowing.

MRP: Rs.545/- for 50g

Ingredients:

Both the day and night creams come in a thick glass jar which is quite heavy. They have a separate cap between the lid and the product. It is light pink in color and light in texture. It does not make the skin greasy and hydrates the dry patches on the skin, without the heavy feeling. Both day and night creams have almost the same ingredients with some minor difference. Key being light liquid paraffin, glycerine, Vitamin E Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Apart from Gineplex) which are great for hydration and work on blemishes and scars.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme

With the latest advancements in ‘Green Science’ at its core, it is a night crème for accelerated lifting, firming and protective action on skin. Lotus Youth Rx Anti-Ageing Nourishing Night Creme visibly reduces fine lines and opens pores by nourishing the skin overnight.

Results: You wake up to an optimally hydrated and dewy, fresh skin.

MRP: Rs.525/- for 50g

Ingredients:

The day cream has a gold base and purple lid and the night cream is vice-versa. I like how the packaging is different and it helps to identify the creams. Night cream is white in color and slightly richer in texture, though does not make the skin feel heavy, it takes 1-2 minutes to get absorbed completely and skin looks as if nothing is applied on it.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti- Ageing Eye Contour Cream

MRP: Rs.425/- for 15ml

The eye cream comes in this sleek tube with a nozzle dispensor, be careful when dispensing coz way too much product comes out. You just need a tiny bit on your ring finger, blend both ring fingers and apply under the eye and massage very lightly for a few seconds. It is off white in colour and gel like in texture. It feels very cooling and tingling. Since I do not have wrinkles, I did not notice any much of a difference with this one. Not a love, but kinda ok.

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Active Anti-Ageing Exfoliator

Its unique ‘TRIPLE ACTION FORMULA’ gently exfoliates, protects and nourishes the skin from within. It gently removes dead skin cells to reveal a younger and healthier looking skin.

Active Ingredients: Vanilla Beans, Ginseng, Ginger, Milk Peptide Complex

Results: Instantly reveals younger and healthier looking skin

MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g

Ingredients:

It has a rotating cap packaging and is white gel like in texture with black vanilla beans extracts. The scrub is very mild and gentle, it is good for everyday or every alternate day too. It is not heavy duty scrubbing, so if you like those walnut particles scrubs, you will find this very mild. This will work for sensitive skin too. I would say it’s ok, scrubbing particles could have been a little more stronger.

Lotus Herbals YouthRx Anti – Ageing firming Face Masque

It is enriched with unique Algae Extract & revolutionary ‘Gineplex Youth Compound’. It detoxifies & resurfaces the skin at cellular level. It nourishes & hydrates your skin, revitalizes texture, reduces pore size and removes dead skin flakes. It does not cause dryness unlike other masques.

MRP: Rs.295/- for 100g

Ingredients:

The masque has a flip cap and is a gel+creme texture again. It is not like those thick, cream based masques. It will come out clear and transparent on the skin. I keep it on for 10-12 minutes and then wash it off. It gives a tight feeling when it dries. I haven’t seen any reduction in pore skin but yes it does not dry out skin at all unlike other masques as claimed. And also skin feels firm and plump.

I have been using this entire range for a month now and I can see visible difference in my skin. Find below my selfies taken every week, while using this range.

R-L: Foaming Gel, Serum, Day Creme, Night Creme, Eye Creme, Exfoliator, Face Masque

I received this kit when I shifted to a new place and my skin was in the most horrible state ever. I had way too many break outs, spots, dryness and redness on the skin. Within a week, as you can see in the 2nd selfie, I noticed the difference. In fact, I felt the difference in 2-3 days and skin already felt smooth, soft, hydrated and more even with less redness and the dryness was all gone.

L-R: Week 1 to 4

I again broke out last week coz of travelling, change in climate and water plus it was way too cold in Jaipur and I have not been drinking enough water in the winters, it directly shows on my skin. But what I like the most about this range is, the breakouts dry our immediately and the range starts working on the scars and they fade away quickly too.

The entire range smells fresh and amazing, I love the smell especially of serum and day/night creams. This is slightly on the expensive side but the quantity is amazing! I am using it twice everyday since a month and I have not even finished 10% of the toner and day/night creams. Serum is 30ml and using it twice, so might finish sooner and same with the foaming gel. Even exfoliator and face masque I use once a week, so would last long.

Though I cannot comment on wrinkles as I don’t have them, but skin definitely feels firm, plump, soft, smooth and hydrated. If you are nearing 30 and already feeling the dryness on the skin or are over 30, this range is definitely a must try! Gift this to your mom or MIL and they will definitely love it.

My most favourite products from this range are the foaming gel, toner and serum. I like the day and night cream too.

Rating: 4/5

I loved taking up this challenge and my skin is loving it too 🙂

Did you take up the #ReverseYourAge Challenge? Have you tried the Lotus Herbals YouthRx Range before?

P.S: PR Samples, Honest Review.

Wella Professionals Elements Range Launch & First Impressions

Wella Professionals Elements Range Launch & First Impressions

Hi guys,

A few ago I attended a new launch by Wella Professionals, the Elements Range at House of Tales in Kala Ghoda. It was launched by Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp and the Elements Range Brand Ambassador Nimrat Kaur.

Since it is all about green, forest and natural, the theme was white and green and the entire setup was white and green too. We were even sent a ‘Peace Lily’ plant invite in a white tea pot which is extremely cute and useful. I have kept it in my balcony 🙂

Wella Professionals introduced Elements to the Indian market ; it is the first Wella Professionals range of care products which are free of sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants. Wella Professionals has  also specially created a new fragrance, inspired by the green wood’s of the Amazon forest.

Wella Professionals Elements is inspired by nature to provide up to ten times more strength against breakage* for renewed hair vitality. Wella Professionals Elements protects the integral keratin structure, keeping your hair shiny and healthy, but without some of the chemicals usually associated with hair care products. Keratin is the principal component of hair – a protein which acts as the building blocks of the hair. If the keratin is degenerated, the hair will become weak and will lose its shine.

Sulfates, parabens and artificial colorants are commonly used, safe ingredients in hair care and have been extensively tested but some people wish to avoid them, so the scientists at Wella Professionals have developed the exclusive NuTREE complex.

The NuTree complex is enriched with natural tree extract – a powerful antioxidant which helps reduce free radical damage. Sustainably sourced in Germany, the natural tree extract also has anti-irritant properties to balance and calm the scalp.

The natural tree extract is joined by panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, which penetrates deeply into the hair to repair the inner keratin cell structure and bind moisture in the hair. The result is hair which looks smooth, healthy and is nourished from the roots to the tips.

Commenting on this addition to the Wella Professional range of Products, Wella Innovation Expert Dr.Kerstin Meyer Lipp said, “I think natural products have made their way back in fashion. People are becoming increasingly aware of the ingredients contained in the products that they use in everyday life– such as hair care products. As part of trying to live a healthy lifestyle, they are now looking for more natural alternatives which contain fewer chemicals, but do not compromise on performance.”

 

Nimrat Kaur talked about how she goes through a lot of heat and hair styling and dozens of chemicals in those hair styling products, on an everyday basis. And she would love to use something natural and free of chemicals as her scalp is quite sensitive and something that soothes and calms the sensitive scalp is perfect for her. She tried the Wella Pro Elements Range over her oiled, styled hair and was astonished by the results.

On the first row listening attentively like a student 🙂
With Vipra and Aditi

I have used it 3-4 times till now and here are my first impressions.

Claims: Renew hair vitality and reveal its natural beauty. Elements’ NuTREE complex helps to repair and protect hair from keratin degeneration and is perfectly suited for colored hair.

Renewing Shampoo Claims: Sulfate free shampoo that renews the moisture of the hair, preserving and nourishing it from root to tip. Exists in 30 ml, 250 ml, 1000 ml.

HOW TO USE: Apply to damp hair and massage gently into a lather. Rinse thoroughly.

TEXTURE: Luxurious foaming experience

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.975/- for 250ml

Renewing Mask Claims: Paraben free repairing mask that intensively restores and preserves the natural inner structure and strength of the hair. Exists in 30 ml, 150 ml, 500 ml.

HOW TO USE: Apply after shampooing. Massage and leave for 5 minutes. Rinse out.

TEXTURE: Extra lightweight cream

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.1075/- fro 150ml

It comes in a white bottle with green plant picture on the packaging. It is a flip cap bottle and let me warn you that it is not travel friendly. I carried it along on my recent trip to Jaipur and it messed up my entire bag :/ If we intend to carry it with you, make sure you tape or seal the cap, then you are good to go.

The mask comes in a tub packaging that is safe to carry around and easy to store and use.

The shampoo is transparent and slightly runny in texture. It has this woody, foresty smell which I really liked. It foams like nobody’s business. It will help you get rid of all the oil in one go, but if your hair is quite oily or dirty or if you are using hard water, you may need to shampoo twice. I had to use it twice in Jaipur with the hard water.

The renewing mask is thick and white in color and it has the normal ‘shampoo’ fresh smell. The mask is quite hydrating and nice, it controlled my frizz even in super cold climate.

Using both the shampoo and mask together gave soft, smooth, hydrated, frizz free hair. But make sure you do not use too much of the mask or it will weigh your hair down.

I am really happy that this range is sulphates and parabens free. If you have straightened/colored your hair or have gone for cysteine or anything such, this range is perfect for you as going sulphate free will keep the color/straight effect for a longer duration.

L- Mask, R- Shampoo

Plus sulphate free is anyway good for all types of hair, just that it takes a few washes for the benefit to show on your hair since the hair is so used to the normal sulphate shampoos.

Though the range is slightly on the expensive side, it is like an investment to maintain your color/cysteine.

Wella Elements is available in all leading salons across India such as Jean Claude Biguine, Affinity, Bodycraft, Toni & Guy , Strands, Tresslounge and Headturners.

What do you think about Wella Elements Pro? Which sulphate free range do you use? Will you try this range? Do let me know in the comments below.

Best of 2015 – Skin & Hair

Best of 2015 – Skin & Hair

Hi guys,

So it’s the end of 2015 and we have seen many new launches this year. As I do it every year, it’s time to list down my 2015 favourites.

Also check out a list of 18 everyday skincare and makeup products within a budget ofRs.5000/- with their reasons HERE

See the previous years lists here:

Click on the links for complete reviews.

Skin:

Face WashHimalaya Neem Purifying Face Wash (Himalaya Neem is my HG and will be in my favorites forever), Avene Cleanance Gel, Bioderma Sebium Purifying Foaming Gel

Cleanser/Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water, Vichy Purete Thermale Micellar Water, Kaya Skin Clinic Hydra Cleanse 3 in 1 Makeup Remover

Toner/Mist: Avene Thermal Spring Water, Forest Essentials Pure Rose Water, Kama Ayurveda Pure Lavender Water and Rose Water, Vichy Thermal Spring Water, La Roche- Posay Thermal Spring Water

Moisturiser: Lacto Calamine, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Day Cream, Za Total Hydration Amino Mineral Refreshing Gel

SunscreenVichy Capital Soleil SPF50+ Velvety Cream, Avene Dry Touch Emuslion Suncreen SPF50+

Serums:  Lotus Herbals YouthRx Serum + Creme, Vichy Aqualia Thermale Serum

Face Scrub: Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Daily Scrub, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Face Scrub

Face Pack: Kawar Dead Sea Facial Mask, Korean Sheet Masks, Lotus Herbals YouthRx Face Mask, Spinz Sun Tan Remover, Spa Ceylon White Jasmine Face Mask

Face Oil: Iraya Kumkumadi TailamThe Body Shop Oils of Life Revitalizing Facial Oil

Night Cream: Lotus Herbals YouthRx Night Cream, Vichy Thermale Night Spa

Hand Cream: Marks & Spencer Bitter Orange Hand Cream

Body Wash: Aloe Veda French Lavender Shower Gel, The Body Shop Frosted Cranberry Shower Gel

Body Scrub: The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Scrub and Virgin Mojito Body Scrub

Bath Accessories: The Body Shop Bath GlovesThe Body Shop Facial Buffer, Natural Scrubber made with vetiver and bottle gourd roots.

Body Lotion/Body Butter: Palmers Cocoa Butter Body Lotion, The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Butter

Lip Balm

Tinted: Maybelline Baby Lips Spiced Up
Non Tinted:  Forest Essential Sugared Rose Petals Lip Balm, Burts Bees Lip Balm

Other: Kaya Purifying Spot Corrector, Lactacyd Perineal Wash, Proactiv Refining Mask (zaps pimples instantly), Biotique Chlorophyll Gel (Post waxing), Colorbar Stay the Day Finishing Mist (Keeps makeup intact and skin looking fresh whole day)

Entire Skincare Set: Lotus Herbals YouthRx

Hair:

Oil: Figaro Olive Oil, Dabur Vatika Enriched Coconut Hair Oil

Shampoo: L’Oreal Professionel Absolute Repair Lipidium, L’Oreal Professionel Hair Spa, Dove Oxygen Moisture

Conditioner: L’Oreal Professionel Hair Spa, Dove Oxygen Moisture

Deep Conditioner: L’Oreal Professionel Absolute Repair Lipidium

Serum/Leave in: Oleon Argan Oil, Kerastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Cream

Dry Shampoo: BBlunt Back to Life Dry Shampoo

Shine Spray: BBlunt Spotlight Shine Spray

Other Tools: Gillette Venus Razor, Braun Face, Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi

I am not sure if I missed anything, I covered it all 🙂 Let me know your 2015 skin and hair favourites in the comments below. Makeup favourites coming up next.

P.S: Image from Google

L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick Lincoln Rose Review, Swatches

L’Oreal Paris Moist Mat Lipstick Lincoln Rose Review, Swatches

By Ishleen

Hello there, gorgeous!

So the holiday spirit has finally seeped in, and seeped in with a BAM! With the ethereal beauty of winters and the New Year’s party knocking down the corner, it is always a great opportunity to get hold of a red lipstick, and make your pout shine in all its blooming glory! <3

So after a lot of contemplation so as to spend almost a thousand bucks for a drugstore lipstick or to add 500 bucks more and get our patent MAC, I finally succumbed to buying this gorgeously packaged lipstick from L’Oreal in Lincoln Rose! Was it worth succumbing to the temptation? Keep reading to know more!

Product Description

Name- L’Oreal Moist Mat Lipstick

Shade- Lincoln Rose

Price- INR 899

Quantity- 4.2 grams

Availability- Available across all L’Oreal counters as well as online

My experience:

Packaging– If ever there was a love at first sight moment for me, it was when I saw this gorgeous little baby at the L’Oreal counter! Those of you who know me, know what a sucker I am for classy as well as cute packaging—they just make me go weak in the knees! And if the packaging is chic as well as in a hue of rose gold with uber classy mirror-like finish—count me in baby! So now you know why people are raving about this lipstick range so much—it is love at first sight, truly! But yes, the packaging though nice on the exterior, is quite flimsy on the inside! I mean, the lipstick tube is like really feeble and prone to breakage upon the slightest pressure; so just be cautious!

Texture- L’Oreal has this thing of playing with names—and so has been done with L’Oreal Moist Mat Range! I mean, the name is pretty intriguing—how can a moist lipstick be matte, and how can a matte lipstick be moist? But breaking the obnoxious monotony of dehydrating mattes, L’Oreal Paris has come up with the most amazing matte textured lipsticks which though settle into a powdery matte finish, yet is not at all dry. It glides on super smooth and does not look flaky. It indeed is a moist matte lipstick—the most wonderful texture I have used till date! Nothing like Mac retro mattes, but definitely similar to the Mac Satin finish lipsticks!

Shade- This particular shade is the most coveted of the lot and is mostly out of stock across all stores. And why should it not be—our miss universe Aishwarya Rai Bacchan had worn it for the Cannes Film Festival and flaunted the most amazing pout ever! The lipstick shade—as gorgeous as the outer packaging—is a very vibrant medium red with invariably strong pink-berry undertones which promises to flatter each and every skin tone! Perhaps it is the most stunning pink based medium red which is bold, but not at all in your face bright! A must try shade from the lot!

Pigmentation- Apart from the texture, if there is one thing that left me totally love struck; it is the super opaque pigmentation of the lipstick! I mean even the darkest of pigmentation (on lips, obviously :P) can be camouflaged easily with just two swipes of this lipstick! And if you have naturally pink lips, i.e., without any sort of pigmentation—one light stroke is all that it would take to get the colour in full bloom on the lips!

Staying power- these are drying winter months and I prefer using a lip balm underneath even the most creamiest of the lipsticks! And though, Moist Mat is matte, I can easily do even without a lip balm! Yes, it is that smooth to use! Atop a lip balm it stays for about 4+ hours and does not leave horrendously stained lips behind. But if applied sans any lip balm, the wear time can be prolonged to a good 6-7 hours, though it will stain the lips (which are not at all gross to look at; in fact, gives a nice raspberry tint upon fading)!

Pros:

-gorgeous packaging

-colour coded tabs on the lipstick tube

-very comfortable matte lipstick]

-not at all drying

-can be worn even without a lip balm

-super-opaque

-covers pigmented lips well

-lasts on the lips for a good 4-6 hours

Cons:

-price (900 bucks for a drugstore lipstick! Like, seriously?) *SIGH*

-flimsy lipstick tube which is prone to breakage

-may melt in the summer months

Final verdict: If you are on the look out of a nice pink based red, with very strong pink undertones—which is matte, comfortable to apply and wears well—go grab this beauty!

Rating: 4.7/5

Editor’s Note: Totally agree Ishleen, absolutely love the shade!

Lakme Salon Bridal Stylist Services & Luminance 3+ Ritual Experiental

Lakme Salon Bridal Stylist Services & Luminance 3+ Ritual Experiental

Hi guys,

The wedding season is here and Lakme Salon is all geared up to serve the brides, I remember last year how everything from my hair to nails to body care was taken care of at Lakme Salon.

This season they have Lakme Salon Bridal Stylists who will take care of all the needs of a bride from skin to hair to makeup. They will advice her what all services she requires or can go for, makeup for her pre-wedding functions or the wedding. Basically create a customised package as per the bride’s requirements. Check out more details at www.lakmebridalstylist.in

Here is the Bridal Takeaway Menu and Prices..

I tried one of the services as a part of the Bridal package i.e. the Luminence 3+ Ritual Facial and here is my review on it.

Luminance 3+ Ritual is meant for lightening the skin i.e. it targets pigments/scars. It is also suitable for tanned & dull skin. it gives the skin a glow which the brides need, hence the name ‘Luminence’. It gives hydrated, soft and supple skin. Pregnant ladies or person suffering from fever or anything in particular are not advised to go for it.

Steps involved:

1. Skin is cleansed at first with a foam based cleanser.

2. A creamy exfoliator is used and massaged on the skin.

3. Steam is given on the face & comedones are extracted.

4. Vitamin C concentrated serum is applied on the skin.

5. It if followed by a massage with a night cream.

6. A peel off lightening pack is applied and it is kept for 10-15 minutes till it dries.

7. A toner is applied at the end.

Duration : Around 75 minutes

Price: Around Rs.4000/-

My skin was not tanned, so no immediate difference can be seen. Skin definitely felt moisturized, soft and supple. It takes 2-3 days for the results to show and my skin looked and felt healthier in 1-2 days. Here is my ‘Before’ and next day ‘After’

Before-After

Few Dont’s:

DO NOT go out in the sun immediately post this treatment or use a lot of sunscreen if you have to.

DO NOT wash your face for 10-12 hours with anything except water.

Overall I would say I love the bridal services at Lakme Salon and definitely recommend the brides-to-be to get a package customized for themselves as per their requirements.

P.S: Service was offered in exchange of honest review but that has not affected my opinion.

Faces Ultime Pro Lip Matte & Starry Matte Crayons Review, Swatches

Faces Ultime Pro Lip Matte & Starry Matte Crayons Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

After the Faces Ultime Pro Eyeshadow Crayon, today I am reviewing the Lip Crayons.

What the Company claims: The velvety texture of FACES Ultime Pro Lip Crayon helps the crayon glides effortlessly on the lips for a rich, creamy look in just one stroke. This lush, long lasting lipstick also gives you complete coverage for smooth and supple lips, while being super comfortable on lips. A waterproof formulation, FACES Ultime Pro Lip Crayon is also dermatologically tested and paraben free, and hence complete safe on your lips.

What’s more is that its long lasting stay ensures you do not have to do multiple touch-ups!

Available in 10 shades:

FACES ULTIME PRO STARRY MATTE LIP CRAYON- Obsession

FACES ULTIME PRO STARRY MATTE LIP CRAYON- Hot Wired

FACES ULTIME PRO STARRY MATTE LIP CRAYON- Sugar Coated

FACES ULTIME PRO STARRY MATTE LIP CRAYON- Lasting Kiss

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Really Rust

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Peach Me

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Wrapped Up

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Irresistible Pink

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Smokin’ Hot

FACES ULTIME PRO MATTE LIP CRAYON- Midnight Rose

MRP: Rs.799/- for 2.6g (You get a sharpener worth Rs.125/- free)

It comes in 2 formulations i.e. Matte & Starry Matte, Matte is your normal matte crayon & Starry Matte has some shimmer. Today I am reviewing the shades Sugar Coated in Starry Matte & Midnight Rose in Matte.

It has the same packaging as the eyeshadow crayons. The crayons are colored according to their shades and have a transparent cap, they need to be sharpened.

The packaging is convenient and nice, but would have been better if these would have been retractable coz you will need to carry a sharpener everywhere along.

The texture is super creamy, they glide on like butter and are very pigmented too. You just two swipes for complete, opaque coverage on lips.

L-R: Sugar Coated, Midnight Kiss

These are not transfer proof and transfer a lot on cups, glasses, etc. Also they do not survive meals and fade off from the centre. They stay for around 4-5 hours if you do not eat or drink. They will need to be reapplied after a complete meal and will stay for 2-3 hours with drinking or light snacks.

I would have like a better staying power though and also it not getting transferred on everything every time.

L-R: Sugar Coated, Midnight Kiss

The shade ‘Sugar Coated’ is a bright neon peach with some fine gold shimmer. It goes a little patchy on the lips and accentuates dry patches.

The shade ‘Midnight Rose’ is a beautiful burgundy red, it goes super smooth and looks amazing. This shade would work on all skin tones and is also the most loved shade in this range.

Overall, I would say I like the Matte range more than Starry Matte, I am not a fan of shimmer, not sure if it is only this particular shade which looks a little patchy or all Starry Matte ones. These are again manufactured by Schwan Stabilo and are priced almost the same as other lip crayons in the market. Only issue is transferring and staying power.

I would recommend checking out the Matte Lip Crayons, especially the shade Midnight Rose.

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money : 3.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Have you checked out the new Faces Ultime Pro Lip Crayons yet?