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

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

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

By Nidhal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRICE- 195/- INR for 50g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRICE- 1,200/- INR for 70g

AVAILABILITY- Facebook

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi guys,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coming to the face creams, I have

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

Day Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

Night Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coming to the lips, I have..

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Again I’m back with another review of a MAC product that is a highly recommended and belongs to the Studio range of collections. The sales assistant helped me out in picking the closest shade[NC 41] for my yellow toned medium to fair skin.I would recommend you to first try a suitable shade yourself before purchasing since these are high end products with varieties of shades and what you buy should be worth the money . I read many good reviews of this product due to its dual performance as a foundation plus powder hence made up mind that I’m definitely purchasing this product.

What MAC Claims: A one step powder and foundation that gives skin a smooth, flawless, all matte finish with medium to full coverage. Long-wearing, velvety texture allows skin to breathe.

Packaging

Packaging consists of a classic MAC black compact case which has a built in mirror, the compressed product (in the mid section) and a third compartment where a sponge applicator is stored. A convenient packaging which can be carried easily where ever you go. What I like about the packaging is the separate compartment for the sponge applicator [please excuse my sponge since I haven’t washed it since I purchased this product ,Yes bad me !!] .In most of the compacts, the applicator is kept on top of product due to which the excess product is picked by the applicator when not in use hence forth the waste of product.

Cost: 2290 INR for 15 g

My take on MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation [Shade NC 41]

As I applied this product on my well cleansed and moisturized skin, the first thing I noticed was my pores vanished in seconds. The powder is fine and so soft that it blends easily into the skin. The biggest bonus in this product is the sponge applicator. I found the applicator to be of a very good quality .I have been using this product for more than a year and the sponge is still intact. In fact I use this sponge for blending my other liquid foundation and it gives me a flawless finish.

On application of this product the oiliness on my skin did vanish giving a medium coverage to my skin. It does not seem to look cakey at all and even does not highlight the dry patches on my skin. The product lasts for around 5-6 hours on my combination skin. After which I do a touch up on my T zone. What I noticed is, it doesn’t completely cover the dark spots and minor blemishes and dark circles [hence medium coverage].

I have used this product alone most of the time, but somehow I feel a liquid foundation would help in giving full coverage along with a concealer and a flawless finish .As I mentioned earlier it doesn’t give a cakey look even after layering several products on the skin and it even does not flash on photographs. It just feels like a second skin.

A drawback I noticed was when you use a sponge applicator, it picks up more product than usual hence you tend to finish your product sooner. So in that case a blending brush is always helpful.

The product I’ve been using is almost over but it hasn’t broken as yet since it is fine milled and compressed well into the container. Hence no product wasted.

TIP: Dampen the sponge applicator a little with water and apply the product on to your skin. The product lasts on skin for a considerable longer time than usual and controls oiliness too. [Based on personal experience].

Definitely this is a multipurpose product that can be used alone or along with a liquid foundation which gives a flawless finish.

Pros:

  • Diminishes pores within seconds
  • Doesn’t give a cakey look
  • Photo friendly
  • Controls oiliness giving a matte finish
  • Can be used alone or along with a liquid foundations
  • Highly recommended for oily skin
  • Travel friendly light weight packaging
  • Long-lasting product

Cons:

  • Heavy on pockets
  • Medium coverage
  • Works better with liquid foundation

Rating: 4.5/5

Would I recommend MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation? Yes definitely I would recommend since it’s a multipurpose product.

Editor’s Note: I would like to add one thing here, it broke one of my friend really bad every time she used it. So I would recommend trying it out first 2-3 times at the stores and see if it suits your skin, before investing in it. If it works for your skin, then it is indeed a great powder with very good coverage.

Have you tried the MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation?

Best Off Screen Looks of Shraddha Kapoor

Best Off Screen Looks of Shraddha Kapoor

By Nidhal

Sometimes, miracles happen overnight. It required just one film to catapult Shraddha Kapoor to the status of an overnight sensation. With forgettable box-office duds like ‘Teen Patti’ and ‘Luv Ka The End’ in the past, Aashiqui2 opposite the dashing debonairhunk- Aaditya Roy Kapoor, came as a much-needed kiss of life to Shraddha. A few years down the line and the perky Marathi mulgi (as she considers herself more a Marathi than a Punjabi) is riding hide on the success of a number of her flicks. It’s hard to turn a blind eye to her effervescence, charm, vivaciousness and girl-next- door avatars. Let us feast our eyes to the Best off-screen looks of this pert actress then, shall we? 🙂

1. DURING ABCD2 PROMOTIONS – Tanya Ghavri has styled Shraddha for her ABCD 2 promo tour and looks like she took her task with utmost seriousness. Pairing a Hemant & Nandita creation with Zara flats, Shraddha looked her usual chirpy self. And not to forget her tousled brown locks look drool- worthy.

2. ALL SUITED UP- The ebullient Shraddha Kapoor’s feminine spin on the power suit is simply put-Style goals. The colour with zero accessories and nude makeup makes this look an out-and- out hit.

3. DURING THE HAIDER PROMOTIONS- And here comes the girl who no guy would think twice before popping the question. Carrying this beige look with sheer aplomb, Shraddha rocks in a soft, feminine dress and rounds it off with wavy hair.

4. UNLEASHING THE TOMBOY WITHIN- The livewire Shraddha, for the promotion of ABCD 2 attended an episode of the dance reality show- DID Super Moms with her ABCD2 co-star Varun Dhawan in a Gas grey denims and jacket with a white Zara graphic tee. Opting for a casual look, she completed her look by keeping her hair in a sleek ponytail, bracelets and a pair of gold Adidas sneakers. Talk of going funky and miss out Shraddha? Naah, that is just not happening anytime soon.

5. GOING BOHO CHIC- Going boho chic, Shraddha opts for a causal look in an Urvashi Kaur outfit. She completes it with a pink top and gypsy pants with a statement neckpiece by Blur designs, Gucci sandals and a quirky ombre hairdo. Certainly, my top pick out of all her looks.

6. FOR BAAGHI PROMOTONS- Sparkling in a Prabal Gurung black and blue blocked dress during the promotional tour of Baaghi, Shraddha kept her look minimal. She opted for side swept locks and black ankle strap sandals which rounded off her look.

7. UNLEASHING THE FEMININE SIDE- Swaddled in in DvF and Zara for the promotions of Haider on India’s Raw Star, Shraddha looked effortlessly stylish and chic. Not going overboard in styling is her USP. Have a look at her feline eyes and you’ll be transfixed.

Editor’s Note: All her outfits are so pretty and feminine, can relate to her style. Loved the 1st and 3rd dress.

Which is your favourite look?

Top 10 Innisfree Products Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Innisfree Products Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

The launch of Innisfree in India got me really excited and the thought of getting the products delivered at my doorstep made me list down all the products which I always wanted to buy. It is a Korean skincare and it is the first natural brand that has been dedicated to share the clean and pure energy of nature for healthy beauty. Innisfree shares the benefits of nature from the pristine island of Jeju, allowing for vibrant beauty and pursues an eco-friendly green life to preserve the balance of nature. Their products work like a magic on every skin and no wonder it is widely popular. The botanical ingredients used are sourced from an environment free of polluting. This is why their ingredients has no side effects and allergic reactions. Here’s the top favorites from Innisfree.

1. Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Serum – Price Rs. 1950 for 80ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Serum comes in a green pump dispenser bottle. The serum is transparent, lightweight and gets absorbed within a minute leaving the skin looking wonderfully matte. However, it also nourishes the skin without getting greasy. The with organic Jeju green tea and green tea seeds that hydrate your skin from deep within and the green tea seed oil creates a strong moisture barrier to keep your skin moisturized longer. The product is best suited for normal to combination skin.

2. Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask – Price Rs. 1100 for 100ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask is one of the bestselling product worldwide. It comes in an opaque jar and has tight and thick clay mask. You need to dampen your face to apply this. It helps to cleanses, exfoliate, brighten and removes dead skin cells (it has AHA) from the face. It instantly gives you a cooling sensation and effective in removing sebum and other impurities. It is a magic face mask for oily, combination and acne prone skin type. It dries up the acne pretty fast and prevent them. The super volcanic cluster capsules powerfully absorbs sebum to intensively resolve pore concerns. Overall, you get an amazing clear and smooth skin.

3. Innisfree Orchid Enriched Cream – Price Rs. 2000 for 50ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Orchid Enriched Cream is best suited for normal to dry skin. It comes in a pretty purple jar with a beautiful floral scent. The texture is of gel-crème and extremely lightweight. It hydrates the skin beautifully and works as a night cream. The highly enriched Orchid enriched cream strengthens inner skin cohesion, keeps the wrinkles at bay and improves elasticity, skin tone. The rich and resilient texture wraps the skin and contains natural high molecules to form a micro barrier to leave the skin resilient. It lasts a long time so the price is justified.

4. Innisfree Wine Peeling Jelly Softener – Price Rs. 900 for 180ml (BUY HERE)

Innisfree Wine Peeling Jelly Softener comes in a slender dark bottle. It has a translucent medium consistency and acts as a gentle exfoliator. It is great for sensitive skin and gives an instant cooling sensation and soothes the skin. The skin feel soft, smooth, refreshed and hydrated without any oiliness. It is a clarifying treatment for newly exfoliated skin and helps the skin recover faster and generate new and healthy skin cells fast. The product is enriched with wine extracts from France, Wine creates a clear and smooth jelly-like skin by gently lifting away dead skin cells and providing hydrating moisture.

5. Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Sheet Masks – Price Rs. 100 for 20ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Sheet Masks are one of the bestselling product worldwide. The sheet mask is also one of the important part of Korean skincare. Each sachet has one sheet mask that has to be applied on the face evenly and let the ingredients in the mask get absorbed by the skin well. It helps to make the skin smooth and radiant. There are so many variants available like Rose, Lime, Green Tea, Tea Tree, Aloe Vera, Pomegranate, Strawberry, Cucumber, Bija, Manuka Honey, Black Berry, Shea Butter, Kiwi and Bamboo for different skin type and purposes

6. Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam – Price Rs. 650 for 150ml (Buy HERE)

Innisfree Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam is best suitable for oily skin with enlarged pores. It comes in an opaque tube. The face wash is white in color and relatively thick. It has the tendency to lather and the very small volcanic pore particles for better absorption of sebum and some scrub action. It has been formulated for pore cleansing which it does effectively and purify them thoroughly. The skin is left matte but not over dried at all. It will not irritate the skin at all as it is free from harsh chemicals.

7. Innisfree Peach Hand Cream – Price Rs. 300 for 30ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Peach Hand Cream comes in a medium sized tube. The hand cream is light weight, creamy textured and white in color. It smells heavenly of flowers and peach and the aroma is divine! It melts into the skin like a dream and feels non-greasy and non-sticky. It makes the hands soft and smooth with it’s with deep moisturizing properties and a sweet scent of Jeju peaches. It gives a long lasting hydration and also rejuvenates the skin. For this winter, it is the perfect pick.

8. Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin – Price Rs. 1200 for 200ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin is a star product for the normal to combination skin type. It comes in a plastic green packaging. The product is basically a toner with water-like texture but thicker. It feels cool, fresh and light on the face. It applies smoothly and absorbs fast without any stickiness. There is an instant cooling sensation and, the green tea scent is lovely. It balances the skin beautifully and imparts a healthy glow to the skin. It does feel slightly pricey but the product is surely worth it. The product is free from parabens, synthetic colorants, mineral oil, animal-originated ingredients, imidazolidinyl urea

9. Innisfree Green Tea Moisture Cream – Price Rs.1300 for 50ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Green Tea Moisture Cream is best suitable for dry to very dry skin. It comes in a pretty green tub. The cream is thick and white in color but spreads so easily and smoothly on the skin. It gets absorbed and immediately puts a layer of hydration to the skin. It is formulated with freshly squeezed green tea to instantly form a moisture barrier to offer dewiness, preventing skin from moisture loss. Further, it has green tea seeds for deep hydration, green tea leaves harvested on Jeju Island is rich in amino acids and minerals and keeps skin moisturized for longer. The tub will last a long time.

10. Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum – Price Rs. 900 for 100ml (BUY HERE)

The Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum comes in a beautiful red bottle with a pump dispenser and a protective cap. This serum also has a beautiful floral fragrance and the consistency is medium – neither thick nor thin and spreads easily on damp hair. It gets instantly absorbed into the hair, nourishing the hair strands and also helps in detangling. The double- caring of Jeju camellia oil and fermented camellia oil that helps damaged hair and keeps it healthy. It lessens the frizz, adds a bounce and subtle shine and the camellia oil coats the cuticles, preventing split ends. It is great for dry and damaged hair.

Editor’s Note: I have the entire Jeju Volcanic Clay range and it’s amazing, especially for oily, acne prone skin. The Green Tea Range is excellent for dry skin and I love their sheet masks too. I would also like to add the Sleeping Creams, pretty good and you wake up with amazingly soft and moisturized skin. I have heard so much about the Wine Peeling Jelly Softener and it’s on my wishlist.

Have you tried these Innisfree products? Your favourites?

IngredientSpy.com: Check and Analyze the Ingredients before Buying

IngredientSpy.com: Check and Analyze the Ingredients before Buying

Hi guys,

With the option of 100’s of products available these days for each skincare product, we often get confused and sometimes end up buying things that may not necessarily be suitable for our skin.

I came across this website called Ingredientspy.com. It’s goal is to help women easily figure out what’s actually inside cosmetics, before they buy them. I think this is a very good idea and super helpful for us who would really want to know what are the ingredients in the products we are putting on our skin and body.

One can analyze the ingredients of any product by pasting the list of ingredients or uploading a clear picture of the ingredients. Or one can just explore different ingredients as to which ingredient helps in what.

Also if you have a specific skin type or concern and looking at specific ingredient in your skincare, you can find products based on the ingredient. This I feel is the most helpful feature. For e.g., if you have acne prone skin and looking for something with salicylic acid, you can find that and if you have dry skin, something with hyaluronic acid, and so on and so forth..

The idea behind the website is to build a piece of software which can recognize ingredients and show visitors whether a product is worth trying or not. The data which feeds into the system comes mostly from the National Institute of Health website.

All products on the site are compared using their ingredients. Each ingredient displays a short explanation and is categorized based on its properties. Some properties include anti-aging, moisturizing, healing, etc. Ingredients are also marked as being great, good or unfavorable – great being a perfect fit for the specific type of products it’s used in, good being good in general and unfavorable signifying known (documented) unwanted side effects. When all this is taken into account, a numeric score is derived and stored as the ingredient rating of each product on the site.

The website has a database of a couple hundred products separated into categories. If you’re looking for an anti-aging cream it’s pretty easy to compare the ones on the site and see which ones have the ingredients you want most.

The site also offers an Ingredient Analyzer which makes it easy for visitors to paste a list of ingredients or upload a clear photo of the ingredients on the product’s packaging, which the site will transform into text and attempt to read through. This is my favourite feature, you can just click a picture using your phone and analyze the ingredients instantly.

I analyzed the Himalaya Herbals Orange Peel Tan Removal Face Pack and here are the results..

New products are added a couple times per week. I hope they soon cover most of the brands and products. This website is really helpful and if you are someone who would like to be aware of what you are putting on your skin, this will be of great help! Definitely recommend checking Ingredientspy.com

Feelunique Haul : theBalm, Real Techniques, Rimmel

Feelunique Haul : theBalm, Real Techniques, Rimmel

Hi guys,

I got a few things from Feelunique.com a few months ago. I had filmed this video earlier but if you don’t already know, I have got a fracture recently and hence it took some time to edit, etc.,

About Feelunique: Feelunique is a UK based website which stocks all international brands from Real Techniques, Sleek MakeUP, NYX, Maybelline, Benefit, theBalm, Rimmel London, etc. They have 1000’s of brands under them. They offer free shipping all over the world above £60 and £15 shipping below that. But even if you buy 2-3 items, you can easily cross £60.

Also they have a lot of offers from time to time and free Gifts with Purchases. Only disadvantage I would say is customs and since that is not fixed or cannot be determined, it is a bit of risk.

I got 6 items out of which one item was missing. I paid Rs 950/- customs on rest of the 5 items. Let’s see what all I got..

And the item which went missing was the Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick. I wanted all of these items since a really long time! They were on my wishlist! And I am so glad I got these.

I hope you liked the haul, do let me know in the comments below.

Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara Review, Pictures

Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara Review, Pictures

Hi guys,

I love Sugar Cosmetics lip products, their lipsticks and lip crayons are really good. Even the kajals and eyeliners are of great quality, considering they manufacture at Schwan Stabilo in Germany where majority of the brands do.

So now they have launched a mascara. This is the basic black shade called ‘Black with a Bang’, I feel they will be launching more shades in mascara real soon and that would be interesting as we don’t have many colored mascaras in India.

Claims: Looking for a magic wand that will transform you from Plain Jane to Queen Bee in seconds? The all-new Lash Mob Limitless Mascara from SUGAR gives you just the drama your eyes need! Whether you’re a fan of super volume or clump-free formula, we bet that your lashes will thank you once you’ve had your first date with this beauty. Creamy-textured and incredibly easy to apply, this paraben-free Mascara does a stellar job of separating, defining and combing through each lash so you’ll experience lashes like never before!

Benefits: This wonder mascara houses specially designed micro-bristles that lift, separate and unstick every lash hair and coat it with our clump-free volumizing formula. That’s not all! This game-changing makeup product also boosts the growth of your natural lashes thanks to the nourishing vitamins in the tube and contains anti-oxidants that protect them from pollutants. How’s that for packing so much punch in one miracle product!

MRP: Rs.699 for 9ml (Buy HERE)

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Synthetic Beeswax, Paraffin, Iron Oxides CI 77499, Stearic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum (Acacia Senegal), Triethanolamine, Butylene Glycol, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax (Cera Carnauba), Polybutene, Triacontanyl PVP, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Stearate, Polyquaternium-65

It comes in a slender matte black tube packaging. The brush is nice and thick and I thought it would be quite volumizing looking at the brush.

I prefer slightly wet formulas in mascaras because that helps coat lashes well. The formula of this is dry, not stiff dry but not wet either.

It lengthens and curls the lashes but does not give enough volume. If you try to layer with multiple coats for volume, it clumps up the lashes.

I am not sure of the lash growth claim as I am not using it everyday. But if you just need some curl and length on an everyday basis and it also helps in the growth of the lashes when used everyday, this is a good work wear option.

It comes off very easily at the end of the day as it’s not waterproof, but this makes this easily smudgable. It transfers easily on lower lashline and smudges with even slight rubbing.

Before, 1 coat, multiple coats

Here you can see my before-after with one coat and 2-3 coats. I like how it defines and curls with one coat, which is good enough for everyday. But as you can see here, it clumps with more coats and transfers on lower lashline.

It is decent for everyday use, but considering the price, I wouldn’t recommend it as it’s very expensive. I love my Essence mascaras which are fabulous and very affordable.

Have you tried the Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara? What do you feel?

Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

By Nidhal

The bright red-coloured, minuscule strands of saffron (called Kesar in Hindi) are exactly what you need to incorporate in your skin care regimen. Saffron is one spice that is capable of burning a hole in your pocket. It is used for adding flavour to dishes. It is a rich source of health benefit nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, foliate and minerals like zinc, potassium and sodium that rejuvenate skin cells and promote the regeneration of new cells. It helps in the removal dark spots and blemishes.

So, let us concoct some skin treats from the comforts of your kitchen using saffron (kesar).

1. SAFFRON, RAW MILK & BESAN MASK

Saffron is an excellent skin toning agent. It helps in eliminating blackheads and unclogs clogged skin pores. Saffron also scavenges free radicals and promotes better circulation of blood, thereby ensuring that skin looks toned and firm.

Raw milk, rich in B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and other potent antioxidants, has innumerable skin benefits! It works to nourish skin cells from deep within and keep skin moisturized for long. Besan is used to cleanse and exfoliate skin.

PROCEDURE- Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for two hours. After that, the colour of the concoction will turn yellow wholly provided the saffron you have used is authentic. Add a tbsp. or two of besan flour and mix well. Apply on your face as well as neck. Let it dry for around 30 minutes and then, wash off. Feel rejuvenated, don’t you?

2. SAFFRON & CURD MASK

Packed with various vitamins such as A, C, and the B vitamins, saffron-the wonder ingredient is known to possess skin brightening properties. Acne and pimples can leave behind scars that take a long time to fade. Using curd and teaming it up with saffron will speed up the process of healing. Sounds exciting?

PROCEDURE- It is as simple as it gets. Just soak 3-4 strands of saffron in a heaped tbsp. of curd/yoghurt for two hours. Post two hours, the concoction will turn yellow completely given that the saffron you have purchased is authentic. Smear it generously on your face as well as neck. Let it dry. It will take around half an hour to dry. After this, wash off your face with adequate cold water.

3. SAFFRON, MILK & SANDALWOOD POWDER MASK

The inherent anti-inflammatory nature of saffron arising from the high presence of antioxidants enables saffron to be used as a potent tool against various skin conditions such as pimples, acne, and Rosacea. To top it all, if we have milk (raw one please) which boosts collagen production, slows down fine lines and wrinkles, protects skin from free radicals that cause premature aging, helps fade dark spots and marks, reduces acne and promotes skin elasticity, you know it’s going to be “Good times” for your largest organ aka your skin. Finally, sandalwood powder owing to its fragrant and soothing aroma will act as the binding agent in this recipe. It also absorbs excess oil off one’s face and neck. Time to cheer oil-skinned ladies, isn’t it?

PROCEDURE-Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for about two hours. Add a heaped tbsp. of pure sandalwood powder (known as Chandan powder in Hindi) and mix well. Once a smooth and consistent paste id formed, generously daub a fine layer of it on your skin. It will take around 30 minutes to dry solely. Wash off with cold water and admire the newfound glow.

4. SAFFRON, ROSE WATER & COCONUT MILK MASK

The moisture absorbing and enhancing nature of saffron makes it an ideal home remedy for dry, chapped and rough skin. On the other hand, we have rose water (known as Gulab Jal in Hindi) which helps to maintain skin’s pH balance, fight acne, dermatitis and eczema.

Rose water also hydrates, revitalizes and moisturizes skin. It helps to tone one’s skin. It also helps to revitalize aging skin and keeps fine lines at bay. So many virtues rolled into one! Didn’t that get you ecstatic? Add to this, coconut milk needs no elaboration when it comes to moisturisation.

PROCEDURE- In a tbsp. of pure rose water, add 3-4 saffron strands. Let them soak into it for 2 hours. Finally, add a tbsp. of coconut milk. The final/resulting concoction will be predominantly liquid. That goes without saying that application would be messy but do not fret. You’ll be blown away by the results if not immediately then, definitely over a couple of uses periodically.

Soulflower Coldpressed Olive Oil Review, Benefits, How to Use

Soulflower Coldpressed Olive Oil Review, Benefits, How to Use

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION – Olive oil is a multipurpose oil and a very important part of my skincare and haircare. I have been using this oil for quite a long time now and I am really surprised how beneficial it can be. The brand, Soulflower is a well-known one, for making different carrier and essential oils. I have tried various products from them and was really impressed with the quality.

So let’s get straight into the details.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Olive Carrier Oil – Coldpressed have ability to nourish, moisturize and improve skin elasticity, acts as a deep conditioner & a dandruff controller, giving hair shine & strength.

PRICE – Rs. 300 for 200ml (Buy HERE)

MY REVIEW

The Soulflower Coldpressed Olive Carrier Oil comes in a slender plastic bottle with a transparent body. It has a white opaque screw cap with a flip open lid and a small opening that dispenses the right amount oil and controls the flow as well. The packaging is really travel friendly and light weight. I always dreaded carrying oils while travelling but this one causes no spillage at all. It was easy and handy. The olive oil is golden yellow in color with a thicker consistency. It is slight sticky as well due to the consistency and few other addition of ingredients in it. There is no complain regarding the thicker consistency because cold pressed and chemical free olive oils are like that. There is a slight hint of olive aroma and nothing artificial at all. It isn’t a very pleasant smell but it won’t put you off.

Before moving on to the various uses, I would like to discuss the ingredients. This product is Cold pressed (which is purist method of producing oils to retain much more of their valuable nutrients) and hence the olives are pressed and grinded in low temperatures in order to retain its aroma, flavor and nutritional value. You would often use various ‘olive oils’ with a light consistency, non-greasy feel but those oil have mineral oil in them and such products are harmful for the skin. As a result, this product is hexane free. The brand claims to extract this product from the seeds of the Olea Europaea (Olive) plant, which is a great source of Vitamin E and also contains Vitamin K and D3.

HOW TO USE –

1. Makeup remover – Oil is the best makeup remover ever! Be it coconut, olive, castor or any other oil, it is going to remove every trace of waterproof and smudge proof makeup. My eyes are super sensitive and thus I avoid using any makeup remover wipe or chemical near it. I use this olive oil or sometimes make a concoction with castor or coconut oil and soak lightly in a damp cloth or cotton ball. I apply on the eyes for 30-40 secs and then swipe gently to remove the makeup. It comes off easily and effectively.

Also, the eye area feel soft and nourished. For face, you can simply massage the oil in circular motion and you would the makeup coming right off. Swipe off everything in a damp cotton and wash the face as usual.

2. Eyes – Eye area is naturally dry and the skin around it is very thin. It loses moisture easily and thus require extra nourishment. I dip a Q-tip in the oil and apply all over the eyelids and under eyes, along with the lashes and eyebrows. I massage the oil slightly and let it soak overnight. Therefore, whenever I wake up, the area feel nourished and hydrated all day long. This is helped me a lot and prevented the wrinkles around the eyes.

3. Skin – Olive is antiaging and contains various vitamins like Vitamin E, Vitamin K and D3. It helps to prevent fine lines, crow feet and wrinkles. Olive oil also nourishes and moisturizes the skin. if you have dry skin, simply apply the oil to the dry patches and you will wake up with renew and rejuvenated skin.

4. Body and Aromatherapy – Olive Carrier Oil has the ability to nourish, moisturize and improve skin elasticity. This is why it is an excellent product for body massage and aromatherapy. You can also mix with other essential oils and massage. Initially, it feels slightly sticky but given some time, it gets absorbed well. In fact, you won’t need a body lotion throughout the day. You can also use this for body scrub. Take 2-3tbsp. of crushed almonds, coffee and add olive oil with it. Massage it thoroughly before bath.

5. Nails and Hands – It serves as an excellent hand nourisher and nail cuticle oil. For dry hands, simply massage the oil for 5-6mins and wear a glove for 30mins. Once you open the glove, your hands will be as soft as a baby’s skin. For nails and the dry area around nails, apply olive oil and let it soak for an hour. You would never see dryness if you do this regularly.

6. Hair – My favorite part is to apply a concoction of 3 oils – olive, castor and coconut. This methods works like a charm for me and prevented split ends and dryness. I massage the oil on the scalp and length of the hair and keep it overnight. I wash off in the morning with a mild shampoo and conditioner and the hair feel soft and manageable. I even add the olive oil in my homemade hair masks as well for the extra nourishment.

7. Lips – Lips feel dry and chapped every day and simple lip balms are not good enough to keep them soft and supple. I mix olive, castor, shea butter and coffee grinds and scrub the lips once a day, before hitting the bed. It helps to remove the dry patches and keep the lips soft and pouty.

8. Shaving – Shaving with olive will save you time and money. You won’t have to apply any body lotion or oil post-shaving as the olive oil is enough to nourish and hydrate it. Thus, if you are in a hurry, simply apply the oil generously on the area to be shaved and use the razor.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Well packaged and travel friendly.

2. A golden yellow color with subtle notes of olive.

3. Thick consistency.

4. Hexane free.

5. Extracted from the seeds of the Olea Europaea (Olive) plant, which is a great source of Vitamin E and also contains Vitamin K and D3.

6. It has versatile uses.

7. Affordable.

8. Easily available.

WHAT I DISLIKED

1. None!

RATING – 5/5

OVERALL – Soulflower Coldpressed Olive Carrier Oil is one of the best and affordable oil that that versatile uses and an essential part of the skincare and haircare. It is authentic and has no side effects whatsoever. Moreover the oil will last you a long time. I would highly recommend this one.