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Revlon Photoready Skinlights Face Illuminator Review, Swatches, Indian Makeup Blog, Liquid Highlighters India

Revlon Photoready Skinlights Face Illuminator Review, Swatches

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Revlon Photoready Skinlights Face Illuminator Review, Swatches

By Devika

Voila beauties!

Hope you all lovely ladies are doing good busy stashing up your makeup stuff. As I was going through mine, I found one thing missing and that’s a HIGHLIGHTER which is like the talk of the town now .Everybody is talking about it, it’s on everyone’s face, every brand seems to be endorsing them in creams, powders, liquid forms or in the form of strobe creams as they are calling them to be and they are like crazily being eyed upon. However, playing it safe I picked for me this Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator in Bare Light which I would be reviewing for you guys.

Well, very few drugstore brands give you color options for highlighters to choose from and one is forced to look up to high end ones but Revlon has reintroduced these highlighters and it comes in 3 shades in Peach, Bare and Pink lights. So let’s get started

Price is 950 INR for 30ml of product

Shelf life is 3 years

Shades available: Peach, Bare and Pink lights

Product claims: Banish dullness and even out skin with light capturing crystals and photochromatic pigments for a lit-from-within look. Wear alone to highlight and brighten. Mix with or wear over foundation to banish dullness and even out skin tone.

My experience

Packaging-It comes in a slim tube which is quiet sturdy and looks simple yet elegant, the color of which corresponds to the shade it is, with a black glossy rectangular screw cap. The product is dispensed through a nozzle and since it’s runny in CONSISTENCY so nozzle has no control over the flow of the product, so it has to be held in an upright position every time you apply it. You just need to tilt the bottle to let the product flow out without actually pressing the bottle else it would lead to product wastage and then there is no option to put the product back.In all it’s easy to carry around and spill free.

How to use- It’s important to carefully let off the product from the tube as I said. Just tilt the bottle a little and dispense on your finger a drop or two and dab on the high ends of your face like cheek bones, bridge of the nose, cupids bow, under the eyebrow and blend into the skin. You can use fingers or damp sponge to spread but I found fingers worked best for me (the heat and pressure of fingers helps the product to spread easily). As it has lotion like consistency it gets easily absorbed into the skin and settles into a semi matte finish-It doesn’t look cakey either. Its buildable product so one can always add more although a small amount goes a long way! However it is not to be used on damaged or broken skin.

The TEXTURE is runny, lotion like, with very subtle glitters present and this gives the very natural highlighting finish on the skin. It suits all skin types. Even the oily skin ones can carry this formula easily as it is light weight and non-greasy. The SMELL is a light chemical pertained but not overpowering and fades off in a few seconds after application. This particular shade in Bare Lights has a champagne color with shimmers and would suit fair to medium skin tones but look loud on dark complexion. The skin shows healthy glow when it catches any form of light without being over the top, so it’s best for those who are new to highlighters as its sheer and subtle effect won’t let one overdo it. One can use it for everyday wear . I also tried mixing a drop or two into my foundation for that overall glistening look. But using it below the foundation didn’t show the product at all. I Have acne prone skin, I am glad it hasn’t broken me out. Also, it can easily be removed off with makeup remover.

Top- Blended
Bottom- Unblended/Swatch

Staying power- It fades away in 5 to 6 hours and those with oily skin would need touch-ups too. As summers are advancing, on hot sweaty days it might wither away further, so don’t forget to apply a layer of good SPF underneath to make it last longer.
Well, as compared to other high end brands, Payoff isn’t that great but compared to the price it comes in, it isn’t a bad deal either!!!

Pros

  • It is very soft and smooth, blends easily to form a natural glow on your face.
  • It is non-greasy or make your skin oily.
  • It has a fair staying power, stays around 5 to 6 hours over foundation.
  • The consistency helps in proper application of the product without overdoing it.
  • Product is buildable
  • It highlights face without giving an ‘on the top’ shimmery look.
  • The packing is sturdy and slim and travel friendly
  • A little will go a long way
  • Great for everyday look

Cons

  • The nozzle does not control the product flow, making it messy
  • It is not for those who really love shimmer highlighters on their face
  • Not suitable for dusky/dark skin tones
  • Oily skin people need touch ups
  • Little overpriced for a drugstore brand

SUMMARY

PACKAGING – sleek body, color coded, travel friendly, difficult dispensing
SHADE – a natural champagne gold with subtle shimmers
TEXTURE – lotion like runny, easily absorbed
PIGMENTATION – Natural, subtle and sheer pigmentation with not so dominant shimmer
STAYING POWER – 5 hours which require touch ups

Rating 4/5 (minus 1 for messy dispensing and frequent touch ups required)\

Final verdict: A promising, sleekly designed, light-weight highlighting liquid, which is not at all shimmery and gives a soft natural, glow to your face. I would recommend this highlighter for all those, who have just started their journey with highlighting and for those, who do not like over the top-shimmery look on their face.

So all those newbies, go get your hands on these beauties and get highlighted!!!!

Stay beautiful, Stay illuminated

Editor’s Note: I have swatched it before and wanted to try this, but have loads of highlighters to finish first 😀 I love how it is subtle and not too shimmery, same as their Highlighting Powder.

Have you tried the Revlon Photoready Skinlights Illuminator?

Top 10 Face Washes For Men in India, Prices, Buy Online

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Top 10 Face Washes For Men in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

For a woman, it is very easy to choose a face wash from plethora of brands available in Indian market but for men, things are slightly difficult. Firstly, not every possible brand comes up with a face wash for men and their skin’s texture is also a bit different than us. My brother always used to finish off my Ponds Oil Control face wash as he had this super oily skin with acne issues. Well, he isn’t alone – most of them has somewhat similar skin texture that requires a good cleansing that would swipe off all the greasy layers along with the prevention of acne. The scenario is changing and various brand shave come up with face washes for men now. Hence, I have combined a list of the best ten face washes for men available in the Indian market along with their prices. Scroll down for more.

1. Himalaya Herbals Men Intense Oil Clear Lemon Face Wash – INR 140 for 100ml, INR 75 for 50ml (BUY HERE)

This face wash is formulated with Indian Willow (Salix Tetrasperma) bark extract is rich in polyphenols which are known to exert skin conditioning and protectant activity. The plant possesses antimicrobial and astringent properties as it is rich in tannins. Indian Willow has been traditionally used to quicken wound healing and treat skin diseases. Further the face wash is a soap-free, herbal formulation that gently cleanses your face yet lathers generously removing every layer of oil from the surface of the skin.

2. Nivea Men Advanced Whitening Oil Control Face Wash – INR 180 for 100ml (BUY HERE)

Nivea is one of the popular brands in men’s skin care and they also have quite an extensive range of grooming products for men. One of them is the Advanced Whitening Oil Control Face Wash. It lathers very well and removes the excess oil from the skin giving a shine-free matte look. The face wash also controls acne causing bacteria up to 99% for clear skin. Further, it tightens the pores and makes the skin brighter with its advance vita complex molecules.

3. L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Skin Awakening Icy Cleansing Gel – INR 500 for 100ml (BUY HERE)

Who said L’Oréal is just for women? This Hydra Energetic Skin Awakening Icy Cleansing Gel is perfect for those men who has normal to dry skin. It is enriched with cryo-tonic which is a soap free pH neutral formula and it deeply cleanses and purifies skin without drying it out. Further, the active defense system helps strengthen skin’s natural resistance against daily aggression. Cleanses, purifies and wakes up the look of the skin within few minutes.

4. OXY Deep Face Wash with Activated Charcoal – INR 120 for 50g (BUY HERE)

OXY is a brand which is completely dedicated to men’s products. This Activated Charcoal face wash from the brand is an excellent choice for the men who has extremely oily skin prone to accumulation of dirt in the pores and breakout issues. It is powered with Icy- menthol that energizes the skin and delivers the ultimate cooling sensation. The formulation is done with the Stearic acid that exfoliates dead skin intensively by permitting water to combine with oil and dirt and washing them away, therefore purifying pores to reveal clearer skin for longer duration.

5. Fiama Di Wills Men Clear Skin Gel Face Wash – INR 180 for 100ml (BUY HERE)

A gentle face wash for normal to combination skin that balances the pH level of the skin yet removes excess oil from the skin. it has the combination of the goodness of micro gel conditioners and Tea Tree Bio-Actives that softens skin and help reduce skin imperfections by preventing and clearing out the acne and pimples. Its deep action unclogs pores and removes excess oil revealing a brighter, youthful looking face. The price is also very reasonable for a daily face wash.

6. VLCC Men Active Light Fairness Face Wash – INR 155 for 100g (BUY HERE)

This face wash from VLCC is enriched with the goodness of mulberry and mint leaves. Mulberry has antioxidants, vitamins and minerals while mint leaves has skin lightening properties and it can remove toxins and purify skin as well. This refreshing face wash that not only wipes of dirt and grime but also energizes your skin and helps remove tan. Further is unclogs the pores, removes excess sebum and maintains the hydration of the skin as well.

7. Pond’s Men Energy Charge Face Wash – INR 89 for 50g, INR 170 for 100g (BUY HERE)

One of the best budget friendly face wash for men that works extremely good for oily skin. This energy charge face wash is an effective way to remove grime and impurities off your face. It has been specially designed for the men because their skin texture is a bit different than women. With its menthol infusion which gives a refreshed feeling while its coffee bean extracts gently exfoliate your skin, improving the skin’s texture. It brightens the skin and takes away the dullness.

8. Park Avenue Coffee Power Face Wash – INR 95

Park Avenue is another well-known brand for men and their products are really impressive. It suits mostly the oily skin. The face wash effectively cleanse the skin by removing every layer of dirt and excess oil from the surface of your skin. It contains the coffee bean extracts that deep cleanse the pores along with cool, fresh and attractive coffee fragrance. The price is also within the budget friendly range for a daily face wash.

9. Garnier Men Acno Fight 6 in 1 Anti Pimple Face Wash – INR 170 for 100g (BUY HERE)

The face wash has been specially designed for the acne prone oil skin that has been formulated with natural ingredients, to give you a healthy glow with each use. It has micro-beads that scrubs away dead skin cells, remove blackheads and unclog pores. It also controls oil secretion, regenerate and repair your skin to give you a healthy look. It contains Salicylic acid which is known for its cleansing properties and neutralizing bacteria.

10. The Body Shop for Men Maca Root Face Wash – INR 695

TBS is already a well-known skin care brand for women and it also has certain products for men which are equally good. This face wash is a paraben-free & vegan facial cleanser infused with maca root to cleanse, soften, & refresh skin. It efficiently removes the oil from the skin yet balances the pH level of the skin. Further, it leaves skin feeling soft and invigorated.

Editor’s Note: That’s a fabulous compilation Sanchita, I get this question asked a lot, now I know what to tell them to read 😀 I would like to suggest the Himalaya Neem Face Wash, if you have acne prone skin, it is not specifically made for men, but is unisex.

All you men out there, which is your favourite? And ladies, what do men in your life use?

April 2016 My Envy Box Unboxing, Review

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April 2016 My Envy Box Unboxing, Review

Hi guys,

So I got my April 2016 My Envy Box yesterday. The box is peachy pink in color with gold print and it is curated by Bipasha Basu in association with The Label Life.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Let’s see what all I got:

  • BBLUNT Spotlight Hair Finish Spray – Full size (Rs.535/-)
  • O3+ Milk Scrub – Full size (Rs.385/)
  • Fran Wilson MoodMatcher Peach  Lipstick- Full size (Rs.590/-)
  • Rene Furterer Naturia Shampoo – 15ml
  • Roberto Cavalli Paradiso Azzurro Sample (Rs.4900/- for 50ml)

I have got the Moodmatcher lipstick earlier in green in my Aug Fab Bag last year. It comes in four shades, and I don’t mind trying this peach too, it stays put whole day and gives a nice pink tint to the lips depending on the body temperature, pH, etc.

Full size BBLUNT Spotlight Spray is nice, it gives a nice sheen to the hair and slight hold too, perfect for your daily hairstyles.

I like the sound of the O3+ Milk Scrub and I am glad it is full size, really looking forward to try that.

Not very happy with the Rene Furterer small sample, but I already have this same shampoo in the bigger tube and if I like that, I would keep this to carry along for travels. And again, a small perfume sample vial, which I won’t count/consider.

I like the fact that there are 3 full sized products, but I see the same brands being repeated a lot. BBLUNT, Rene Furterer, Avene, Hedonista, Suganda, etc. I would love to see new brands and would love it if My Envy Box introduces some new brands next month.

Also I got the March Jewellery My Envy Box which is curated by Nandini Bhalla, Cosmo India Editor. You can get 20% off on the jewellery boxes using the code ‘JEWEL20’

Though this box is value for money with 3 full sized products, but if you don’t like any one of the 3 full sized products, than you can skip it, and buy them individually.

What did you get in April My Envy Box? The same or something different? Do let me know in the comments below.

How To Get Rid of Acne Naturally

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How To Get Rid of Acne Naturally

By Rashmi

Hello girlies,

This is my first article in this space and i do hope that you all llike it . This being my first article I wanted to write about something that has troubled myself for years.Happy reading ☺

The most irritating thing about growing up is probably pimples.This had troubled me for years until i found a natural and permanent solution to cure it. Though natural remedies have a slower effect but they are permanent cures.I have been using these natural remedies for years and have a clear skin since then. So i thought of sharing these remedies with you all.

All you need to have is a bit of patience. I hope all these remedies works for you all as well. ☺

1. Fuller’s earth- In a bowl take about 4 tbsp of fuller’s earth. Mix 2tbsp of sandalwood powder and mix 1tbsp of turmeric powder into it. Add some rosewater and mix well. Apply this on the face and wash after half an hour. Continue using this face pack for 2 weeks to notice a difference.

2. Coriander leaves- Make a paste of coriander leaves and apply it on the effected area and leave it for 20-25minutes and then wash it off.Coriander leaves works effectively in curing acne.

3. Lemon- Mix lemon with honey and apply it on your face and leave it for half an hour and rinse off with cold water to get a clear skin.Lemon works great as a skin lightener too and is most effective in curing acne.

4. Garlic juice – Garlic juice is probably the most effective natural ingredient to cure acne, the only problem being that it stings really bad. Apply it for 15 mins and then rinse off with cold water and apply rosewater.

5. Black pepper – Mix crushed black pepper with rosewater. Apply on face and leave overnight. Wash it with lukewarm water in the morning.

6. Neem – Mix 2tbsp of neem powder, 1tbsp sandalwood powder and add a few drops of rosewater. Mix it well and apply it on your face. Let it dry and then wash it off.

7. Camphor – Camphor is known to cure acne.It reduces redness and itching. Mix 1–2 cubes of camphor (depending upon the size) and rose water and spray it on your face.This works as a great toner. This is the elixir for people with oily skin. Spray it on your face daily to get rid of acne.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely loved the tips Rashmi, never tried black pepper and camphor. Will surely give them a try

Have you tried these tips? What do you do to keep acne at bay?

P.S: Images from Google

PAC Cosmetics Eyeliners & Kohls Review, Swatches

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PAC Cosmetics Eyeliners & Kohls Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So I got a few things from PAC Cosmetics and have already reviewed the beauty blender before. While it did tear in the first wash which I updated in that review, but it is still very much usable and I am quite loving it, just that I did not expect it to tear in the first wash :/

But today I am reviewing their eyeliners and kohls. They have two liquid liners and two kohl pencils. What I liked about them is that they are manufactured at Schwan Stabilo Cosmetics in Germany which is where Lakme Absolute, Colorbar, Faces, Kryolan and all of the major brands are manufactured. I am assured of the quality, plus the pricing is more affordable and comparatively cheap.

Starting with the liquid liners, they have a normal brush liquid liner and a pen liquid liner, though both are called pen, maybe coz of the stiff pen like applicator.

PAC Cosmetics High Shine Liquid Liner Pen

What the Company claims: The HIGH SHINE Liquid Eye Liner is long-lasting and does not smudge, crack, flake or peel. With its high definition  felt tip applicator, one stroke is enough to define a fine or thick line. Fast drying, Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner is suitable for sensitive eyes and those who wear contact lenses too!.An eyeliner that should last you all day long

MRP: Rs.395/- for 1.7ml (BUY HERE)

Ingredients:

It comes in a liquid liner tube packaging, the brush is quite thin but stiff and easy to use. It is super glossy as the name suggests. It does dry quickly but it is not completely waterproof and also fades off in about 4-5 hours i.e. not very long lasting too.

PAC Cosmetics Liquid Liner Pen

What the Company claims: PAC LIQUID LINER PEN  is a unique product which is perfect for defining your eyes  without any application difficulty. Its professional flexible brush offers great accuracy to line and define the eyes, ensuring an even application. Enables ease of use with the optimal control to give jet black color.IT DRIES UP QUICKLY AND OUR CONSUMERS HAVE SAID THE BELOW RESULTS-

1-81% SAID IT IS WATERPROOF

2-90% SAID IT WAS LONG LASTING

3-87% PERCENT SAID IT WAS EASY AND QUICK TO APPLY

MRP: Rs.450/- for 1ml (BUY HERE)

It comes in a sleek pen form and the tip is quite fine and stiff, super easy to use and do winged liners with. You must have seen me using this a lot in my recent YouTube videos.

I love how pigmented this is, also it settles to a semi-matte finish, gives a deep, dark, defined line and stays put almost the whole day and until you remove it with a cleanser. It is not completely waterproof but it doesn’t fade or come off, though easy to wash off with a cleanser.

It is absolutely perfect, I have never liked any other liquid eyeliner pen after using the Maybelline HyperSharp and later their Colossal Liner. I stick to the Colossal Liner only, but I am glad I tried this, I quite like it. It’s a tie between this PAC Liquid Liner Pen and the Maybelline Colossal Liner for me. Comparing the two, Colossal doesnt’ stay that long and transfers a bit on the lids if it is too humid but easier to apply. PAC does stay put whole day and does not transfer but I would still prefer Colossal for ease of application, a tad bit more. So equal points 🙂

Top: High Shine Liner
Bottom: Liquid Liner Pen

If you like glossy liquid eyeliners, you can go for the High Shine one, but otherwise I would absolutely recommend the Liquid Liner Pen.

Coming to the kohls, they have the Intense Auto Kohl and the Long lasting Kohl Pencil.

PAC Cosmetics Intense Auto Kohl

What the Company claims: A retractable pencil which is an intense auto kohl kajal pencil. A pencil that will take your worries of sharpening the pencil again & again of your mind. The intense colour & matte texture of the pencil will add definition & drama to your eyes. The pencil has a waterproof property & does not transfer. Just because the pencil is intense & jet black. Hence it can be used as : A kajal AS WELL AS An eye liner

MRP: Rs.350/- (BUY HERE)

It is a retractable kohl with a smudger on one side. You can either use it just on your waterline or use it on the upper lashline and smudge for a soft, smokey effect.

It is quite dark and very smooth in texture, glides on easily. I have very watery eyes and no kohl stays long on me, this stays for about 3-4 hours before fading bit by bit. Pretty decent, I would say.

PAC Cosmetics Long Lasting Kohl Pencil

What the Company claims: The kajal pencil which is never going to make a tear fall out of your eye. You were always worried about your kajal smudging & spoiling your make-up look but this kajal is a answer to your all problems.

MRP: Rs.350/- (BUY HERE)

This is in pencil form and again with a smudger behind. You can wear it similarly for your waterline or a smokey effect on upper lashline. The only problem with pencil is you need to sharpen and a lot of it goes waste. But also this is more hygienic as the germs get sharpened and you get a fresh layer before using.

This is quite deep and dark, much more pigmented than the Auto Kohl. Glides on like butter and stays put once set, for about 6-7 hours at least. It doesn’t smear and hardly smudges. The shape and size, packaging is exactly like the Lakme Absolute Kohl Ultimate which is my most favourite and the most long staying kohl on me. Both are manufactured at the same place too, performance wise also they are quite close, I would say they are like 98-100% . While the Lakme Absolute one is priced at Rs.725 (usually around 544 post discount), this one is pretty affordable at Rs.350/-

Top: Longlasting Kohl Pencil
Bottom: Intense Auto Kohl

While both the kohls are priced at Rs.350/-, I would definitely recommend the pencil unless you only prefer retractable ones and hate wastage of product.

I totally recommend the PAC Cosmetics Liquid Liner Pen and Long Lasting Kohl. Very affordable and total value for money!

PAC Cosmetics 378 Brush: The solution to all your woes about contouring your face perfectly. This brush is expertly crafted using Superior quality bristles that place and blend the contour perfectly. Achieve a defined, chiseled and sculpted look by contouring your face to precision.

MRP: Rs.775/- (BUY HERE)

I am also using the PAC 378 brush for contouring, I love the slanted shape and it deposits the product exactly at the contours, where you need. And it works well both with cream/liquid and powder contour. If you are looking for a brush for contouring, I definitely recommend trying this one.

It is slightly expensive at Rs.775 but it’s totally worth it coz using a fluffy brush won’t deposit your contour in one line but spread it around, if you know what I mean. And it is one of the more affordable and value for money options in the makeup brushes category.

Have you tried any of the PAC Cosmetics Liners, Kohls or Brushes yet?

Studiowest Pure Passion Long Lasting Lipstick 621 Honey Glaze Review, Swatches

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Studiowest Pure Passion Long Lasting Lipstick 621 Honey Glaze Review, Swatches

By Simran Bandwar

“If at first you don’t succeed, apply more lipstick!”

Hi everyone!
This is indeed going to be my very first post on New Love-Makeup and i am feeling great to be a part of this little community we got here.

So, i discovered Studiowest products about last year when i was casually walking through a Westside store and i am so glad i found a range which is so affordable and amazing at the same time.

Who doesn’t like makeup which looks good without burning a hole in your pocket?

On my recent web search, i discovered not a lot of reviews are being done on Studiowest products, so i thought why not give the brand the limelight it deserves?

The Studiowest cosmetics are divided into two ranges, Pure Passion and Maya

The Pure Passion range consists of beautiful corals, nudes and warm tone shades whereas the Maya range consists of glitter, dark tones and everything loud.

Pure Passion range can be considered as a range which consists of products which can be used on an everyday basis whereas the Maya range consists of products which can be used during parties or festivals or anytime you are going for that glam doll look.

Packaging: The product is packaged in a matte sleek black tube which is quite appeasing to the eyes. The lipstick bullet is encased in a golden metallic tube which is in perfect combination with the black. The cap is sturdy and travel friendly, you can slip the lipstick in your clutch and you’re ready to take over the world.

Claims: Indulge your lips with this long lasting lipstick. Comfortable and lightweight, it stays on for hours without drying out.

Price: Rs. 450/- for 3.5 gms

My take on Studiowest Pure Passion Long Lasting Lipstick in 621-Honey Glaze:

So, initially i got the lipstick in this shade for my mother because she only wears nude pinks and she wanted a new long lasting lipstick.

The lipstick is in a gorgeous nude mauve pink which can be worn every day. Anyone from fair to medium skin tone can wear this shade, it wouldn’t flatter darker skin tones though. The product sticks to its claim of longetivity since it stays for upto 6-7 hours even after a 3 course meal.  It doesn’t dry out the lips and i love how moisturizing it is.

The product isn’t completely matte, it is more of a moisturising matte or demi matte but i always pat translucent powder on top to turn the lipstick completely matte. I especially love how the lipstick smells, it is just so soothing. Even my mother loves the shade and the lasting power of the lipstick.

Pros of Studiowest Pure Passion Long Lasting Lipstick in 621- Honey Glaze:

Lasting power of the lipstick
Does not dry out the lips
Array of shades available
Moisturises the lips
Value for the money

Cons of Studiowest Pure Passion Long Lasting Lipstick in 621- Honey Glaze:

Only available in Westside stores across the country.

Rating: 4.5/5

Editor’s Note: I agree Simran, some of the shades in the Studiowest Pure Passion Range are really good. I have a few products from Studiowest and some are really good including the Pure Passion Lipstick. This shade is exactly like MAC Cosmo, an affordable dupe!

Have you tried Studiowest Makeup and/or lipsticks?

Whitetone Face Powder Review

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WHITETONE FACE POWDER REVIEW

By Nidhal

Finishing touches… Just like a sculptor’s finishing touch to his oeuvre makes it a masterpiece, a dancer’s perfect pirouette evokes a sigh of admiration from his/her audience and a writer’s final words strike a chord, in the similar way, finishing touches to one’s skin simply prep one’s appearance up, don’t they? A little powder dabbed carefully on one’s skin not only controls excess sweating but also sorts out uneven complexion. In line with this thought, I zeroed in on WHITETONE FACE POWDER one fine day.

Let me clarify my stand on an issue before proceeding. I have no fascination for fair/white/pale skin. I never have and never will. I didn’t grab it because the word “White-tone’’ was embossed on its package. It’s funny in fact bordering on hilarious how a mere powder can leave one with fair skin. If smeared in excess, it will cast a very unnatural white tone which I am sure looks very hideous to most. My purpose of buying it was to see if it adds that finishing touch my appearance which I just talked about above. Well, then it is time to see its report card, right?

PRICE- Rs 100/- for 70g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Apply on face and neck in required amounts.

INGREDEINTS-

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Nothing

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a plastic bottle with a flip-top cap, the packaging of Whitetone face powder is sturdy, hygienic and travel-friendly according to me. Of course, if not shut properly, the powder will obviously spill put but then, the cap provided is sturdy enough to avert such a situation. In a nutshell, even though it is nowhere eye-catching or fancy, yet it is fine for me.

It is finely powdered with a visible white colour and a very mild aroma. The aroma is temporary. It will vanish within seconds of application but sadly the colour is a major put-off. No one is as white as a whitewashed wall! Indians are predominantly dusky and making a powder that complements the warm Indian skin shades is what is expected and appreciable.

When applied on one’s skin, it gives a very unnatural white appearance. In fact, one looks as if a bag of flour has been dropped on them! During sweltering summers when we sweat, the distinction between our natural complexion and this white colour becomes all the more obvious. For this very reason, I do not find it useful at all. Moreover, it wouldn’t be of much use to those with dry/extremely dry skin since their skin is already sapped off moisture. Using a powder which works to seal the pores (which is how, powders ‘control sweating’) will worsen the condition.

The final nail in the coffin comes in the form of its ingredients’ list which has nothing natural. The worst part being it has silicones (dimethicone) and artificial fragrance (under the garb of which toxic chemicals are added).

GOOD-

  • Readily available
  • Economical pricing
  • Fine packaging

BAD-

  • Casts an unnatural white complexion which shows on Indian skin shades.
  • Unsuitable for dry and extremely dry skin
  • Instills a sense of inferiority in the minds of an average Indian who anyway is way too obsessed with fairness, by selling something under the name of “Whitetone”.
  • Contains silicones and artificial fragrance.

RATING- 0.5/5

Editor’s Note: Oh God, such a dud! Knew from the name, and the fancy advertisement they do on TV :/ Nice review Nidhal 🙂

Have you tried the Whitetone Face Powder? Please don’t if you haven’t :p

Lakme Absolute Illuminate & Shine Range Preview, Swatches, Prices, Buy Online

Eye Liners, Eye Makeup, Eye Pencils, Eyeshadows, Lakme, Lipsticks, New Launches, Palettes, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lakme Absolute Illuminate & Shine Range Preview, Swatches, Prices, Buy Online

Hi guys,

I have been playing with the new Lakme Absolute Illuminate and Shine Range since the past one week.

The range has 3 new eyeliners called Lakme Absolute Precision Eye Artist, 15 shades of lipsticks called the Lakme Absolute Illuminating Lip Shimmer, 2 eyeshadow Palettes with 6 eyeshadows each in Gold and Silver i.e one with warm and daytime colors and one with cool and night time/smokey colors. And finally 10 gorgeous glitter nail paints which I believe are not out yet.

As you can notice, the whole range is about shimmer and glitter. I have 3 lipsticks and all 3 eyeliners with me, and the Gold Palette. These are already available online, so I thought of swatching them, in case you would like to buy them online, coz they are on discount on Amazon.

Lakme Absolute Precision Eye Artist – Rs.850/- for 0.35g (BUY HERE)

Unique twist up retractable liner with precision grip
Liner comes in 3 metallic shades
Intense color in just one stroke

Lakme Absolute Illuminating Lip Shimmer- Rs.700/- for 5g (BUY HERE for 630)

High color pay off with a creme texture
Reflective shimmer finish
Contemporary shades from Lakme absolute, recommended by backstage experts

Lakme Absolute Illuminating Eyeshadow Palette- Rs.995/- (BUY HERE for 896)

A versatile palette with 6 unique shades developed to suit Indian skin tones
Complimentary shades blend effortlessly to create different looks
Ideal for all special occasions

Here are the swatches..

L-R: Emerald Green, Blue Sapphire, Burnished Brown
L-R: Tropical Shine, Crimson Blink, Pink Flash
L-R: Tropical Shine, Crimson Blink, Pink Flash
Illuminating Eyeshadow Palette in Gold
Illuminating Eyeshadow Palette in Gold

The eyeliner comes in this long, slender retractable packaging with a rubber grip to hold it well. It is super pigmented and with one swipe, you get the perfect, opaque color. The three shades available are Burnished Brown, Blue Sapphire and Emerald Green.

All three shades are true to its name and gorgeous. If you are not a color person, definitely get Burnished Brown!

The lipsticks I have are Tropical Shine, Pink Flash and Crimson Blink. All the shades have shimmer in them, but are super pigmented and give opaque coverage. Pink Flash doesn’t have gold or silver shimmer but self pink shimmer, hence it is not reflective.

And the palette in Gold has neutral shades from brown, nudes, taupes to olives.

This range is definitely expensive and I was not expecting such high prices :/ I absolutely love the Precision Eye Artist, they are super creamy, pigmented and amazing to work with. Definitely recommend those. In Lip Shimmers, shades like Tropical Shine, Rose Gold are very unique and pretty and perfect for weddings/brides.

I will do a detailed review on this range soon.

I hope you liked the preview and swatches, do share your favourites in the comments below.

DIY – Makeup Setting Spray

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DIY – Makeup Setting Spray

By Sanchita

Makeup setting spray plays a very important role in the application and setting of base. In fact, this is the reason the makeup looks so flawless and does not budge for a long time even during scorching heat. You have often seen the matte or dewy look on various celebrities and how impeccable it looks! It also helps in removing the cakey or any patchy look in case you applied the powder or foundation in excess. Sadly, not many Indian brands manufacture makeup setting sprays and therefore the other brands are quite expensive. One day, I was having a casual chat regarding makeup setting with my friend who is a makeup artist and she told me how she sets the makeup on her clients. She uses a concoction liquid of certain ingredients which are readily available in the market and I was so determined to make it. In fact, you can also make two different setting spray – one for dewy and the other for matte. So, scroll down to see how to make your own makeup setting spray.

INGREDIENTS

  • Rose water – act as a toner, moisturizer and skin enhancer.
  • Aloe Vera Gel – helps in setting the look without getting patchy or cakey.
  • Glycerin – moisturizes the skin and evens out the makeup. Acts as a sticky base to keep the makeup adhered to
  • Distilled Water
  • Empty Spray Bottle

PROCEDURE

  • Take an empty spray bottle and make sure it is completely cleansed, sterilized and dried. Fill 1/3rd of the bottle with distilled water.

  • Add 2/3rd rose water to the bottle.

  • Add 1 tbsp. of Aloe Vera Gel.

  • Now, add 1/2 tbsp. of glycerin or any other essential oil of your choice.

  • Shake the bottle very well so that the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

  • Voila! Your makeup setting spray is ready!

Note: If you want to make the spray for matte finish, use the distilled water and rose water in a 50:50 ratio and add only little bit of glycerin. However, if you want to make the spray for dewy finish, use the distilled water and rose water in a 20:80 ratio and add 1tbsp. of glycerin. Also, you can add Jojoba Oil or any other essential oil to increase the hydration factor during winter.

Caution: If you’re allergic to any of the above mentioned ingredients, please do not incorporate them in the concoction.

This can also be used a toner and refresher in this scorching heat. Simply spray the liquid from a slight distance, closing the eyes and let is dry on its own. Also, do not spray too much as it will take a long time to dry up. It is free from chemicals and preservatives and hence it is best to use it up within 1-2 months of making.

Editor’s Note: This sounds amazing Sanchita, definitely worth trying. I am surely going to.

Will you try this DIY Makeup Setting Spray?

Almendrop 100% Pure Almond Oil Review

Oils, Reviews, Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

ALMENDROP 100% PURE ALMOND OIL REVIEW

By Nidhal Sinha

Almond oil has benefits galore for your skin and crowning glory. Don’t believe? Enriched with Vitamins A, E and B, almond oil is food for your skin. Not only does it quench your skin’s thirst for moisturisation but also halt the signs of aging. Sounds good? Wait, there’s good news for your mane too. Almond oil is a great emollient and also cleanses skin and removes dead cells. This quality helps fight dandruff and keep the scalp clean. It is light in texture and that makes it a great substitute for shine enhancers or leave-in conditioners. Almond oil has amazing moisturizing properties due to the essential fatty acids and the vitamin E it contains. Lusciously gorgeous mane, did I hear you say that?

Oh, wait, the benefits don’t end here. There’s good news for your lips too. How? Almond oil comes to your rescue when you want those soft, pink lips to die for. Almond oil’s rich vitamin content and the fact that is a great moisturizer works wonders in softening lips and imparting a winsome natural pink colour. Since it is storehouse of beauty hacks, why not grab a bottle of almond oil and put a full stop to all our beauty woes? Sure, but markets are inundated with hordes of almond oil brands. Which one should be relied upon? Well, the answer is subjective but today, I will bring a brand of almond oil to your notice that will hopefully leave you with the answer to the above poser.

So, let’s begin with the review of ALMENDROP 100% PURE ALMOND OIL on that note.

PRICE- Rs 225/- for 175 ml (BUY HERE)

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Apply on skin, hair or lips by massaging it gently.

INGREDIENTS- Refined almond oil (edible grade)

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Beneficial for hair, skin and health.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a simply but sturdy plastic bottle with cap on top and a layer of plastic covering shielding the oil from contamination inset, the packaging of ALMENDROP 100% PURE ALMOND OIL is leakage-free and hygienic. That said, I doubt if it is travel-friendly or not. The cap, I think may loosen its grip with use. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the packaging to make it travel-friendly. Just the cap needs to be revamped. All else is fine.

The oil isn’t lightweight but it isn’t as heavy as coconut oil is. If applied on one’s skin and hair, one will get a feeling that something is applied. But again it won’t be so heavy that you will feel uneasy in keeping it for long duration. The oil has no fragrance which is a plus point for me. I detest artificial fragrances.

When used on skin overnight (of course, I won’t recommend oily-skinned ladies to do so), you wake up with a dewy and moisturised skin. The key is to be regular. Miracles don’t happen overnight unless it is a Bollywood movie 😛 As far as its use on lips is concerned, a better idea would be to add ghee to it since the oil gets soaked immediately when slathered on lips. Finally when it comes to one’s crowning glory, if used as a hot oil treatment overtime (around 2 months), you’ll get shiny and softened locks. This depends of your hair’s condition and frequency of usage too so, do not picture shiny tresses instantaneously on reading my experience

All in all, it a good investment. The results aren’t noted within a week or two of use. Be patient and persistent. It’s a natural treatment but the results will spellbind you for sure.

GOOD-
Economical price
Hydrated lips if not deeply then in combination with other natural ingredients such as-ghee.
Imparts shine to your crowning glory. Again, the results won’t be seen immediately. Religious use overtime throws such results.
Moisturises skin well.
Sturdy bottle.
Pure. It is an edible grade oil which validates its purity.
No artificial aroma

BAD-
Limited availability. I found it a supermarket in New Delhi. It is an imported oil so, it may take time to reach the remotest corners of India.
Cap’s packaging needs to be modified to make it travel-friendly

RATING- 4.5/5

Editor’s Note: I just saw this on Amazon and it looks pretty good. I always recommend Hamdard Rogan Badam Shirin but this is cheaper and seems like a nice option.

Have you tried Almendrop Almond Oil yet? Heard of it?