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Patanjali Coconut Oil Review & 6 Different Uses for Skin & Hair

Patanjali Coconut Oil Review & 6 Different Uses for Skin & Hair

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Patanjali Coconut Oil Review & 6 Different Uses for Skin & Hair

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION

There are some Patanjali products I swear by, like the Aloe Vera Gel, Divya Kantilep, Rose Water and this Coconut Oil. More than anything this has been a savior for me and I can’t stop praising it. I have been using this oil for the past one and half years and always keep two additional backups for this one. Here is my review on the same.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – It’s made of pure coconuts & helps in the improvement of hair growth. Patanjali coconut oil is a double filtered coconut oil which is without any preservatives. Hence, good for cooking purpose as well.

PRICE – Rs. 65 for 200ml (BUY HERE)

MY REVIEW

The oil has changed the packaging over the years. Initially there was this flip open bottle and then they suddenly shifted to the tub packaging which was extremely convenient. Last month, when I went out to purchase some, I saw that the bottle packaging is back and I couldn’t be more glad. It has a white opaque flattened bottle with a flip open cap. The mouth of the cap dispenses right amount and also helps you to control the flow as well. The bottle is much easier to carry around as well as storage. Overall, the packaging is sturdy and great.

The oil is transparent in it and leans on slightly thicker side. This is a pure coconut oil with no amount of dilution. If you see the ingredients, you would find that there is no mineral oil whatsoever and this is why the oil works best for every purpose. The smell of coconut is pretty much evident but there is no artificial touch to it. There are various ways I have been using the oil for a long time and I will elaborate how beneficial it has been.

Use 1: For the hair

Long ago I used a hair color and somehow it backfired on my scalp and I started having terrible hairfall. Someone suggested me this oil and I used to apply it overnight and wash off the next day. I did this twice a week for a month and my hairfall problem is gone. Surprisingly, the dandruff issue is also gone. The hair feels soft, nourished and healthy. Since I have extremely dry hair, sometimes I make a concoction of almond, castor, olive and coconut oil for the hair. I keep it overnight and wash off the next morning. There have been times, I also mix this coconut oil in the homemade hair masks for nourishment.

Use 2: For face

I have oily acne prone skin so I can’t exactly use it for moisturizer but I used for removing my makeup. I haven’t not used any commercial makeup remover and simply slather the oil on the face and massage for 2-3mins. Then taking a wet wipe, I wipe off and it removes every layer of makeup. For the eyes also, it removes every layer of water proof mascara and kajal and will not irritate the eyes at all. As I have oily skin, I wash off everything with a face wash.

Use 3: For hands and feet

In winters, the hands and feet get very dry and I massage the oil for 5-10mins and hit the bed. It nourishes my hands and feet overnight and I wake up with no dry layers. For other time, I simply wipe off the excess oil with a dry tissue.

Use 4: For body

The oil works like a charm to heal dry skin and stretch marks. I use this in winter for my body and it has removed my stretch marks. However, I must say that it takes a long time and patience. It took 9-10 months to remove the stretch marks on my thighs and hips.

Use 5: For eyes

I have hereditary dark circles and also dry under eyes. Most of the eye creams doesn’t suit me and I use little coconut oil on a cotton bud and apply around the eyes before sleeping. Thus, it never makes the eye dry and wrinkled.

Use 6: For nails

The nails are often under nourished due to the use of constant acetone based nail remover. I use the coconut oil as the cuticle oil and it never feels dry and under-nourished.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Opaque and sturdy packaging

2. Pure coconut oil

3. No mineral oil added

4. Has variety of uses for face, eyes, body, nails and hair

5. Reduces hairfall.

6. Hydrating

7. Easily available

8. Extremely affordable

WHAT I DISLIKED

Nothing

RATING – 5/5

OVERALL- Thus, the Patanjali Coconut Oil has various uses and the oil is truly a magic elixir for me. Most importantly, it is extremely affordable, easily available and in pure form. I would highly recommend this oil over any other hair oil for nourishment.

Editor’s Note: I will surely give this a try Sanchita, nice review

Have you tried Patanjali Coconut Oil? How do you use it?

Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Cheek Color Review, Swatches

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Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Cheek Color Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So Lakme launched new lip and cheek colors in their 9 to 5 range, I attended the launch few days ago and got three shades to try.

Here are my thoughts..

What the Company claims: Say ‘No’ to touch ups with this perfect for office wear, Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Matte Lip and Cheek Color. Lakme’s first lip and cheek color comes in a mousse texture that’s weightless, giving a powdery matte finish to lips and a soft blush to your cheeks. Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Matte Lip and Cheer Color is ideal for daily office wear adding charm and lasting long. Its dual benefit makes it a high functional product for the busy and on the go working woman. Its Looks and feels weightless because of the light weight formula. Since it’s a mouse texture, it absorbs well giving an intense color that long-lasting. The applicator brish glides on seamlessly making is east to apply and giving a smooth and even finish. There are 10 vibrant shades designed especially for both lips and cheeks.

Features & Benefits :

Mousse textured light weight lip color

Can be used on lip and cheek

Matte lip color

Long stay

Ultra matte

Available in 10 shades

Ingredients: PVP/Hexadecene copolymer, Nylon powder, Cyclomethicon

How to use product: Swipe on the product – with the foam tip applicator evenly over your lips. Apply a second coat of the weightless mousse, to deepen the shade and give your lips a powdery, matte look. To add a soft blush to your cheeks, dot the mousse under your cheekbones in a half moon shape and use your fingertips to blend.

MRP: Rs.575/- (Buy HERE)

Shades Available:

  • Burgundy Lush
  • Pink Plush
  • Cocoa Soft
  • Rose Touch
  • Crimson Silk
  • Blush Velvet
  • Coffee Lite
  • Plum Feather
  • Fuchsia Sude
  • Tangerine Fluff

I have the shades Pink Plush, Burgundy Lush and Coffee Lite with me. They come in a sleek blush pink tube packaging with a rose gold cap. While the outer packaging was kept same to match the 9 to 5 Weightless range, I wish there was some color demarcation. It is difficult to find one particular shade and you have to read the shade name behind each time if you have more than one shade.

It has a warm vanilla scent exactly like the MAC lipsticks, love the smell. It has a bendable doe foot applicator and is quite easy to glide on.

It has a smooth, velvet mousse like texture. A little more airy and light than the NYX/Miss Claire Soft Matte Lip Creams. These are super pigmented though, once you take the applicator out, you wouldn’t need to dip it again as you can get two swipes and opaque coverage at once.

But as a blush, you need to work really quick with these. They take about 30-40 seconds to set and once set, they are difficult to blend or smudge.

They give a matte finish but are very light and comfortable on the lips. I was testing these at home and I forgot I had anything on my lips. My lips didn’t feel dry or didn’t crave a lip balm, they were very comfortable.

If you have dry lips, you will need to exfoliate though coz the lip colors cling on to the dry patches and accentuate them.

The lighter shades stay on for about 3-4 hours and the darker colors stay on for 5-6 hours. These do not transfer on cups or bottles and survives light snacks and tea. However, won’t survive full meal and would fade from the center and need re-application. But they are easy to reapply and do not crumble like matte liquid lipsticks.

In terms of shades, I wish there were few more nudes/browns/taupes and plums/grey beige and some unique colors. However not all those shades would work as a blush, so there is a limitation as this is a dual use product.

As a blush too, these are very comfortable and easy to blend. However, use a tiny bit as these are very pigmented and blend super quick, one cheek at a time 😀

L-R: Burgundy Lush, Coffee Lite, Pink Plush

Pink Plush is a neon coral pink

Burgundy Lush is a brick/burgundy red

Coffee Lite is a taupe with mauve undertone, my favourite out of the three!

My only con here would be the price. I wish these were priced around 450-475 as it’s Lakme 9 to 5 range and not the Absolute Range. Also different color packaging or shade demarcation below would have been great. Lighter shades won’t show up as a blush on deeper skin tones.

Overall, I quite like these and I am glad Lakme is coming up with new, innovative products. This one is perfect for office and apt in the 9 to 5 category. Lasts long, pigmented, no. of shades, comfortable, dual use.

I tried and swatched all the shades at the launch and my favourites/must haves/recommended ones are Blush Velvet and Coffee Lite. If you want deeper shades for fall/winter, Burgundy Lush and Cocoa Soft.

Are you excited about the new Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Cheek Colors? Your favourite?

Plum Smokey Eyes for Diwali with L’Oreal Paris Festive Fever

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Plum Smokey Eyes for Diwali with L’Oreal Paris Festive Fever

Hi guys,

I got a few things from the L’Oreal Paris Festive Fever collection. This collection has a range of products apt for the current festive season i.e. Diwali.

I got the Color Riche La Palette Nude in Rose, I think they have this floral design on on eye shadow for this special occasion, coz I haven’t seen in that usual palettes.

The Color Riche Les Ombre Eyeshadow in Midnight Rose, Color Riche Le Smoky Eyeliner Pencil in Black Velour. The eye pencil is amazing! Super creamy, super pigmented, stays long, comes with a smudger behind. Tough competition with my favourites Lakme Absolute Kohl Ultimate and Colorbar Just Smoky Just Black.

Then we have the Lucent Magique Blush in Sunset Glow, Super Liner Gel Intenza in Sapphire Blue. The Gel Intenza Gel liners are my favourites, I have all three shades and highly recommend these to everyone!

The Super Liner Perfect Slim, which I guess is a new launch in India. I love felt tip pen eyeliners and only use those, can’t wait to try this one.

L’Oreal Paris True Match Super Blendable Powder, Volume Million Lashes Mascara which is my favourite! And last but not the least, the Moist Matte Lipstick In Blaze of Red. I love the moist matte formula and they are one of my favourite range in L’Oreal Paris.

I came up with this plum smokey eyes using these products..

I used my L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation for the base and set it with the True Match Super Blendable Powder. The Lucent Magique Sunset Glow Blush for the blush and highlight. For my eyes, I used the Le Smoky Pencil in Black first to line my upper lashline and smudged it softly. I used the plum shade all over the lid and the warm light brown in the crease and for blending. I used the soft pink eye shadow in the inner corners and the matte off white shade on my brow bone. I used the Le Smoky Pencil for both waterline and tightlining and smoked the lower lash line with the same plum and brown. Finally finished with the Volume Million Lashes Mascara, two coats on both upper and lower lashes.

Color Riche La Palette Nude in Rose
Lucent Magique Blush Sunset Glow

And the Moist Matte Lipstick in Blaze of Red to end.

I hope you like the look, do let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Also what look are you sporting this Diwali?

P.S.: I wanted to record a video for this look, but my camera battery charger is not working. I have been going crazy in finding a charger as even the authorized service center or dealer do not have it and apparently no one stocks accessories. Kind of weird, but how does one use the camera without the charger. Highly disappointed in Nikon!

Best 10 Face Washes for Acne/Breakout Prone Skin Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

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Best 10 Face Washes for Acne/Breakout Prone Skin Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Who doesn’t want a clear acne free skin? Well, Indian weather is mostly tropical and most of the habitable areas are prone of hot and humid conditions. Therefore, the skin breaks out pretty bad. However, if you take good care of the skin and use the skin care products which aims to help the breakout situation, then you can surely keep them at bay. First and foremost, you have to keep the dirt and impurities away to avoid breakouts. We have listed out the best 10 face wash for acne or breakout prone skin available in India and includes both budget friendly and high end options.

1. Clean and Clear Foaming Facial Wash – Price Rs. 110 for 100ml (Buy HERE) (Review HERE)

The Clean and Clear Foaming Facial Wash is one of the popular budget friendly face wash available in India. It comes in a simple transparent bottle with a flip open cap system. The face wash has a gel like light consistency, slightly thick and orangish in color. It foams really well and cleanses the skin without making it dry and parched. It helps in drying out the acne only and keep the skin clean and unclog the pores as well. It has salicylic acid which helps the acne to dry out and leaves skin feeling clean and beautifully clear.

2. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash – Price Rs. 499 for 175ml (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena is surely one of the trusted brand when it comes to skin care. It has a very convenient packaging and the product is extremely gentle on the skin. It contains Salicylic acid which is known to get rid of acne and prevents future break outs. The removes the layer of oil and dirt from the skin and since it is gel based, it will not dry out the skin. It is also a great one for sensitive skin and dermatologically tested. The skin is healthy and rejuvenated.

3. Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash – Price Rs. 140 for 150ml (Buy HERE) (Review HERE)

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash is surely one of the popular choice for acne prone skin. It is a soap free face wash filled with herbal ingredients that helps you remove every layer of dirt, oiliness and grime clogged in the pores and prevents the breakouts. It is formulated with neem which is well-known for its anti-bacterial properties, kills problem causing bacteria, and Turmeric effectively controls acne and pimples. It takes some time to show the result so you have to be a little patient with the face wash. Also, it may dry out the skin slightly.

4. NEW Pond’s Pimple Clear Face Wash – Price Rs. 125 for 100g (Buy HERE)

Pond’s has launched the new Pimple Clear  Face comes in a white opaque tube with a suitable flip open cap. It has Thymo-T Essence which works much better on skin in controlling pimples than salicylic acid. It claims to work on acne in flat 3 days! The herbal clay helps in absorbing oil and keeping pores clear.

5. Lotus Herbals Tea Tree and Cinnamon Anti-Acne Oil Control Face Wash – Price Rs. 175 for 120g (Buy HERE)

Lotus Herbals Tea Tree and Cinnamon Anti-Acne Oil Control Face Wash is another great face wash for oily acne prone skin. It has a thick gel consistency with minute beads which are very mild on the skin. It clears out the skin very well, controls oil without drying out the skin at all. The skin feels extremely refreshing. The ingredients are really powerful which as tea tree oil which is anti-microbial, anti-acne, antioxidant, fights skin infection. The cinnamon and oak bark will also help the skin a lot.

6. Garnier Skin Naturals Pure Active Neem and Tulsi Foaming Face Wash – Price Rs. 105 for 100g (Buy HERE)

The Garnier Skin Naturals Pure Active Neem and Tulsi Foaming Face Wash has a transparent bottle with a flip open cap. The face wash has a gel like slight runny consistency which feels mild on the skin. It lathers abundantly and requires a very little amount. It removes every layer of external impurities and provides a clean and refreshed skin. The neem and tulsi is extremely good for oily acne prone skin and makes the skin radiant slightly. The face wash takes slight time though if you have heavy acne formation on skin.

7. The Body Shop Tea Tree Facial Wash – Price Rs. 695 for 250ml (Buy HERE)

This was a God-sent product for my skin and I can’t stop praising it. The face wash comes in a fat bottle which has green colored gel like consistency. It helps to clear out the skin well and removes every layer of dirt, impurities and oiliness. The tea tree formulation is great for acne prone skin and gives a cooling and refreshing skin. It helps to prevent the acne and pimples, controls the oil yet doesn’t dry out the skin and also helps in removing the blemishes. This is one of the most effective and highly recommended face wash for acne prone skin.

8. The Body Shop Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash – Price Rs. 895 for 125ml (Buy HERE)

Another gem of a product from the house of TBS. this Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash comes in a tube form with a flip open cap. It has a clear gel like consistency and helps in removing make-up, impurities and excess oil. It also helps in balancing moisture and sebum levels as it cleanses the skin. It is formulated with seaweed that has vitamins and minerals and hydrate the skin without getting oily. It also helps in keeping the acne at bay and gives a healthy matte finish to the skin.

9. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser – Price Rs. 450 for 50ml (Buy HERE)

The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser is best suited for normal to oily or combination skin. It helps in purifying the skin and eliminates impurities and excess sebum while leaving the skin clean and fresh. The product is soap free, alcohol free, colorant free as well as paraben free. It lathers well and works great for sensitive skin as well. Overall, the face wash might be slightly expensive but it is a great one for the acne prone skin.

10. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser – Price Rs. 397 for 125ml (Buy HERE)

The Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser comes in a small travel friendly bottle and has a clear gel like consistency. It foams well and great for oily, combination, or acne prone skin. It helps in removing surface oils, dirt and make-up without leaving the skin dry. It also cleanses the skin and unclogs the pores. The face wash has a neutral formula and also non-comedogenic.

11. Avene Cleanance Gel- Rs.937/- for 200ml (Buy HERE) (Review HERE)

Avene Cleanance Gel’s soapless base cleanses your skin gently and leaves it feeling refreshed. The glyceryl laurate it contains will regulate excess sebum and mattify your skin.

I had to add Avene Cleanance Gel, it is my absolute favourite! Holy Grail. It is fantastic for acne prone skin and one bottle lasts you 3-4 months, so very economical!

Editor’s Note: I have mostly tried all of these and absolutely agree with your list. I had to add Avene, both Avene and Himalaya Purifying Neem are my Holy Grail, something I would come back to always and keep buying my entire life 😀 Must, must try! I also like the Clean & Clear and Neutrogena one. Currently testing the new Pond’s Pimple Clear, it is amazing! I highly recommend the Pond’s one for acne prone skin.

Which is your favourite?

October 2016 3rd Anniversary My Envy Box Review

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October 2016 3rd Anniversary My Envy Box Review

Hi guys,

So I finally got the October My Envy Box, this is their 3rd anniversary box and all the teaser emails where making me very curious, they had mentioned they have 8 products in this month’s box.

The box this month is a plain white one with black web design on it and it says ‘turns three’ below the My Envy Box logo.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Products I got:

  • Ayca Body Wash Jasmine 100ml (Rs.875/- for 200ml)
  • Gulnare Seaflo Face Wash 120ml (Rs.350/-)
  • Vichy Ideal White Brightening Deep Cleansing Foam 15ml (Rs.1550/- for 100ml)
  • Forest Essentials Facial Cleansing Paste 15g (Full size: Rs. 1850/- for 30g)
  • Vert 100% Natural & Vegan Rose Petals Loose Powder (Full size: Rs.1250/- for 10g)
  • Kerastase Chronologiste Sample Vial
  • NFLM Nertia Nail Wraps- Rs.80
  • L’Occitane Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner: 6ml sachets

I got the Zebra print black and white nail wraps in Nertia. I have tried the Gulnare face wash before and it’s quite good. The Ayca Jasmine Body Wash also smells really nice.

I am not much into whitening cleansing facial foam as they make my skin super stretchy and dry. I would have liked the essence though which is another option in the box. I wish My Envy Box gave options to subscribers on what they can choose in terms of shades or products, if they have a few different ones to offer. That would be very convenient.

Love the Forest Essentials Cleansing Paste, I wanted to try this one out, glad I got this. Also this is perfect for travelling. Even the Kerastase Chronologiste vial is perfect for travel.

The Vert Loose Powder is made from all natural, dried rose petals. It has a strong pink undertone and can be used as a blush or eyeshadow. This would make a beautiful blush! But the quantity is good enough to last a few generations 😀 I would suggest splitting it to half or 1/4th and sharing it with your friends/family.

The total value of all the products in this month’s box comes to around Rs.3750/- I am quite happy with the products, 3 are full sized while 3 are super deluxe samples.

I definitely recommend this month’s box! Total value for money.

Did you get the Oct My Envy Box? What did you receive?

Biotique Bio Saffron Dew Youthful Nourishing Day Cream Review

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Biotique Bio Saffron Dew Youthful Nourishing Day Cream Review

By Archana

Hi all,

So as part of the Biotique anti-ageing routine, am back with the review of the second product in the kit. Its the day cream – Biotique Bio Saffron Youthful Nourishing Day Cream.

This day cream is especially formulated to keep your skin youthful and prevent ageing. Let’s move on to the review and see how well it fares.

Products claims: Saffron is one of the world’s most beloved and precious spices, a natural source of vitamins, minerals and nutrients with rejuvenating properies. This light-feeling moisturizer is blended with pure saffron, almond and pistachio oils, as well as turmeric and wild turmeric extracts, to replenish and help sustain skin's dewy fullness of youth. Dry lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced with regular use.

Ingredients: Kesar Stigma – 0.03%, Banhaldi Rhizome – 2%, Haldi Rhizome – 3%, Pista oil – 1%, Badam Tail – 1%, Cream Base – Q.S

Directions to use: Apply to cleansed face, using gentle circular massage motions until absorbed, morning and evening.

Price and quantity: Rs.230 for 50g  (Buy HERE)

Packaging:

The day cream comes in a simple white plastic tub with a green screw-on lid. The letters on the tub faded over time. I feel Biotique can improve their packaging. The tub is housed in an outer carton which lists all the details of the product. If you wish to travel with it, you can discard the carton and carry only the tub.

Texture and fragrance:

The cream is off-white in color, more like ivory. It has a thick, smooth and buttery consistency. The fragrance is mild and unnoticeable.

My experience:

I was quite excited to try this product from its name Saffron Dew. However, on looking at the ingredients list, I was disappointed as the saffron content is very less, just 0.03%. Since am in Bangalore, the cold weather has already started here and my skin is suffering from dryness. Thankfully, Biotique Bio Saffron Youthful Nourishing Day Cream came to the rescue. I have been using this cream religiously for the past 3 weeks. The first major difference that I have observed is that my skin has become really soft, I mean buttery soft, really buttery buttery soft… I feel like touching it again and again. Earlier it used to have a dry and rough texture. Secondly, I can see some skin lightening effects too coupled with the serum. An overall lightening of complexion and even out skin tone.

Being thick in texture, it takes a couple of minutes to get absorbed completely. Once absorbed, it effectively moisturizes the skin and heals all dry patches. I recently got some dry patches near my lips and within 2-3 days of using this, it had vanished. Also, I had some fine lines on my forehead and it was effective it reducing its appearance.

I wouldn’t recommend this cream for oily skin people. But its a boon for normal-dry skin people, expecially mature skin.

The only con that I find in the day cream is, as it is contains butters and oils, it tend to make your skin appear a little dull. So you need to touch up with a compact powder. But the dullness is just the appearance due to the cream. Be well aware that the ingredients are working their magic and when you wash your face in the evening, you can see an improvement in complexion along with a youthful, nourished skin.

Pros:

* Improves skin texture and makes skin buttery soft.

* Lightens skin complexion and evens out skin tone.

* Deeply moisturizing and nourishing.

* Heals dry patches.

* Reduces fine lines.

* Results in youthful, nourished skin.

* Suitable for normal-dry and mature skin.

Cons:

* Makes skin looks darker due to the oils and butters present in it. (Its temporary and after washing you can see radiant skin.)

* Being a day cream, I would expect SPF, but it doesn’t have any.

* Saffron content is very less. Wish they increase the percentage.

Rating: 4.4/5

Verdict: Biotique Bio Saffron Youthful Nourishing Day Cream is a good, affordable day cream for normal, dry and mature skin people. It is made with many natural skin lightening ingredients. As with all natural products, the results are slower. Also unlike other day creams which immediately brighten up your face, this doesn’t. Instead it works on your skin at a deeper level to improve your skin texture and complexion. Worth investing in rather than all those chemical-laden creams.

Editor’s Note: This sounds perfect for dry and mature skin. I love saffron in skincare.

Have you tried the Biotique Bio Saffron Dew Youthful Nourishing Day Cream?

How to Fight Under-Eye Discoloration Naturally?

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How to Fight Under-Eye Discoloration Naturally?

By Nidhal

Eyes are the windows to one’s heart. So true! But they are a lot more than that. They are also indicators of your health. Given the kind of lifestyles we all are living, we frequently tend to cross paths with dark circles, patchiness, discoloration, puffy eyes and what not. The first stage is of denial when we see signs of these pesky woes. Conveniently and more aptly sceptically we wring up our hands in disbelief brushing aside those signs.

A few more days roll by and then those signs begin drawing unwanted attention for people point it out. That sends the ‘Oh-No- Something’s-Wrong’ flag soaring high. Petrified, we wade across over-the-counter measures and what not to allay them but more often than not, such products do not throw positive results. Disappointed, we fall into a whirlpool of pessimism. But hey, worry not. We have a treasure trove of pocket-friendly recipes-none invasive, painful or costing you an arm and a leg at your disposal that’ll leave you heaving a sigh of respite.

1. MALAI/MILK CREAM- Milk has great lightening abilities for the skin and can be a very affordable option for dealing with dark circles under the eyes, which can have great results. Milk cream is a derivative of milk. Being a powerhouse of fats, malai is what you need if you suffer from under-eye discoloration.

PROCEDURE- Simply dab and massage a tbsp. of fresh milk cream using your ring finger (for it is the gentlest in massaging) carefully on your under-eye area. Do not let it enter your eyes. If it does, wash off immediately. That’s it. Sleep with it. In the morning, you can wash it off. Let it work its magic overnight. Continue every night for at least a week. It shows results and how! I vouch for this method provided it is followed painstakingly and regularly. And yes, it softens the area too. Double-whammy, did I hear you say that?

2. ALMOND OIL- Here comes the weapon that has been relied upon since times immemorial to banish those dark circles- Almond oil. Shouldn’t there have been drumrolls in the background as I introduced it?

Coming to its virtues, almond oil is anti-inflammatory, thus it reduces puffy bags under the eyes and dark circles. It is a good source of vitamin K, which improves clotting, reducing discoloration under the eyes.

PROCEDURE- Application is simple. Simply slather and massage the under-eye area with almond oil (few drops) every night dedicatedly without fail for at least a fortnight. Sleep with it and let your skin repair itself overnight.

3. EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL- If almond oil has made an appearance on this list, can EVOO (Extra virgin olive oil) stay far behind? EVOO is the best grade of olive oil for it is least processed and contains maximum nutrition. It comes in glass bottles and is higher than all other variants. It works wonders in allaying wrinkles. Ladies approaching their twilight years can still shed a few years of age off their skin with the help of this wonder oil.

PROCEDURE- Massage a few drops of it on your under-eye area. Please note that massaging is important. That is what matters else the oil will merely sit on your skin and not nourish it the way you want to. Do this every night for 5 minutes gently for at least a fortnight. You will be spellbound with the positive turn of events.

4. GREEN TEA BAGS- Packed with a number of antioxidants, green tea helps banish dark circles and keeps them at bay for as long as you continue sipping (or as I do, gulping) it.

PROCEDURE- Put two green tea bags in the refrigerator for at least an hour. After that, keep them on your eyes. It’s alright if it’s not entirely on your under-eyes. It nourishes eyelashes too so, you have the best of both worlds there.

5. CUCUMBER JUICE- Not only is the cool cucumber (you surely would have heard the phrase ‘as cool as a cucumber’) rich in vitamins and minerals which helps to hydrate, nourish and tone skin, but also brighten the under eye area, so that you can say ‘good bye’ to those pesky dark circles permanently. What needs to be done?

PROCEDURE- Mince a cucumber into a few slices. Actually, two would do. Freeze them for half an hour and then, keep them on your eyes. Bid farewell to all those woes pertaining to your under-eye area.

Editor’s Note: Those are fab tips Nidhal. I swear by almond oil, I am currently using the Cold Pressed Sweet Almond Oil and 3 drops are more than enough! Also just wanted to add, be careful when using the oil, make sure you don’t go too close to the eyes or it doesn’t enter inside, it kind of blurs vision for the entire night :/ Also I recommend the Rogan Badam Shirin, it’s the most economical and easily available option when it comes to purity.

Image Sources: 1,2,3,4,5

Have you tried any of these for under-eye discoloration? What do you swear by?

Top 10 PAC Cosmetics Products Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

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Top 10 PAC Cosmetics Products Available in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

PAC is brand which I first saw on this blog itself and I loved the way Bhumika reviewed the Beauty Blender sponge which looked exactly like the Original Beauty Blender sponge. Ever since that I have been following the brand on Instagram and I love the new launches they are into. Most of the time the products turned out to be an excellent ones from various bloggers and experts across India and in fact, their products are also very high in demand. I believe they have a store in Andheri, Mumbai where you can easily access all the products and apart from that, the brushes are available on Flipkart and many other products are also on Amazon India. The only thing I don’t like is that I have to pay shipping charges for each and every product and the product are of very limited availability. The quality is impeccable which is why I really think they should expand the branches and make it more easily available for us. Another thing I would like point out is that their products are very different and something which won’t get in the Indian market easily.

So, let’s get on with the list.

1. PAC Beauty Blender Sponges – Pink Sponge (485 INR) Black Combo (745 INR) Mini Blenders (285 & 385 INR) (Buy HERE & HERE)

This is one of their bestselling product and a very close dupe of the Original Beauty Blender sponge. It is red and black in color. They also have quite a variety when it comes to sizes. Firstly, the big sponges have two variants – one with the tear drop shape and the other with the RT sponge shape. Also, the mini sponges are available in two variants as well. They have soft in texture and bloat in size when you squeeze under tap water. However, Bhumika has already updated that sponges are to be dealt very carefully as too much roughness will tear it out easily. It blends smoothly without absorbing too much product and a great option if you don’t want to invest on the expensive Original Beauty Blender.

2. PAC Brushes and Master Stroke Brushes (Price varies from product to product) (Buy HERE)

Brushes are as important as good quality makeup and I absolutely adore the collection they have. Most importantly the range is huge – from eye brushes, lip and face brushes, they have it all. Most of the brushes are also a close dupe of MAC brushes (which will cost you a fortune!) and the quality is no less. They have soft bristles, properly trimmed and blends everything like a dream. Also, they have a whole collection of Master Stroke brushes, which are available as a set and also individually. These brushes are the dupe of Artis Oval brushes and the bristles are smooth and soft like a dream. Overall, the brushes of PAC are the best investment for makeup tools.

3. PAC Eyeshadows (250-350 INR) (Buy HERE)

There are very few Indian brands which has single eyeshadows and also the variety of colors are insufficient and incompetent compared to the MAC ones or Makeup Geek. However, PAC has these single eyeshadow refills (which you can easily put it in a magnet palette and make your customized eye palette) available in a very affordable price tag. These have shimmery, frosty, pigment and matte finish along with good pigmentation and smooth blending ability for a great eye makeup look. The wear time is also nice. It is great for beginners as well as professionals.

4. PAC Lip Pots – 485 INR (Buy HERE)

These are the little lip pots which comes in small tub like packaging. The packaging includes a lip brush which will help you to apply the lips colors properly and you won’t have to use your fingers. They glide on the lips very easily and the texture is smooth and creamy. It gives a satin matte finish to the lips a very comfortable to wear for dry lips. It lasts quite long on the lips. The colors don’t fade too much or feather or bleed at all. The only thing is that it transfers slightly.

5. PAC Long-Lasting Kohl Pencil – 350 INR (Buy HERE)

The Long-Lasting Kohl Pencil has a sharpenable functionality with a smudger at the end. It has a super pigmented feature, creamy texture that glides on the eyes very easily. It gives a rich pigmented layer with a couple of strokes and great for regular kohled eye or smoky look. It doesn’t smear and hardly smudges. The kohl has a very good lasting power, around 6-7 hours with minimal fading. For the price, it is surely cost effective.

6. PAC 2 Way Big Eye Mascara – 595 INR

The PAC 2 Way Big Eye Mascara is surely an innovative one at that. It is a dual ended mascara with a slimmer wand for lower lashes and bigger one for upper lashes. It gets the job does quicker, better and easier. It adds both length and volume which is surely a great one. It hold the curls well and the unique design of the bristles help the lashes a lot. It is surely one of the best mascaras in this price and great for everyday wear.

7. PAC Eye Lashes – 165 INR (Buy HERE)

PAC has an array of Eye Lashes which is surely something to look forward to. The eye lashes look very natural yet dramatic enough to perk up your eye makeup look. They are very much reusable with a little care and carefulness. The eyelashes are very affordable and the bristles are soft. Overall, these are one of the must haves.

8. PAC Intense Duo Eyeliner Pencil – 585 INR (Buy HERE)

PAC Intense Duo Eyeliner Pencil comes in an attractive silver pencil with the retractable functionality. The texture of the pencil is extremely creamy and smooth which glides on the eyes like butter. This is surely a versatile product as you can easily use this an eyeliner and kajal. The finish is satin matte and the pigmentation is surely one of the best for the price range. The black color is rich and dark for an intense look. The staying power is also impressive.

9. PAC Studio Finish Primer – 885 INR (Buy HERE)

This Studio Finish Primer is a silicon based primer which has a thin clear gel like texture. It goes on the skin very smooth with its light weight formula. The weightless texture doesn’t feel oily or sticky at all and blends wonderfully into the skin. It also blurs out the pores as well. It helps the base makeup to go on very smoothly without any creasing for a good amount of time. The primer would suit bot dry and oily skin.

10. PAC Color Lock Long Lasting Lip Liner – 385 INR (Buy HERE)

PAC Color Lock Long Lasting Lip Liner has a sharpenable functionality with a beautiful texture. It is extremely creamy which doesn’t tug or pull at all and glides well on lips. it is better to exfoliate the lips beforehand. The pigmentation of the colors are impeccable and gives a beautiful matte finish which is comfortable to wear. They are long lasting, prevents bleeding or feathering of lip color and well-priced as well. The only con is that the shade range has too many reds and no other colors.

Editor’s Note: I liked the pink blender when I first used it, but it tore in first wash which I updated in the blog post. Also when I tried YBP, I realized YBP was much better! But double the price, so in the price range of INR 500, this is surely good. I haven’t tried their duo sponge pack yet. Neither any of the eye shadows or eye lashes. Love some of their makeup brushes, really good! You missed their Eyeliner Pen, which is my absolute favourite

Have you tried PAC? What is your favourite?

The Body Shop Tea Tree Range 3 in 1, Daily Solution Review

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The Body Shop Tea Tree Range 3 in 1, Daily Solution Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing these two new products added in The Body Shop Tea Tree Range. I have been using these since about 2.5 weeks now and here are my thoughts..

The Body Shop Tea Tree Range 3-in-1 Wash Scrub Mask

Claims: A clean and mean multi-tasking cleanser with foaming kaolin clay, volcanic minerals and Community Trade Tea Tree Oil that tackles the appearance of clogged pores, blackheads and shine. Perfect for those with blemish-prone skin. Use this triple threat cleanser as: 1. A daily wash to purify 2. A scrub to clear and tighten the appearance of pores and smooth the skin’s surface 3. A mask to deep cleanse and mattify the skin’s appearance

MRP: Rs.1295/- for 125ml

Ingredients:

This is the star product of this range. It’s a wash, scrub, mask all in one. It comes in a green flip cap tube packaging.

It has a white creamy base with small grey-black granules in it. Now when you use it as a face wash, it doesn’t foam and you actually end up using it as a scrub.

So I feel it should have been scrub/mask only. But as a scrub, it works great. It exfoliates very gently and would be perfect for sensitive skin too.

I love using it as a mask though. And then once it is dried, I wet my hands and scrub it, so basically I use it like both, at once 🙂

It dries super quick, in about 5-7 minutes, since it it clay based. It has a tingly, minty smell and feeling. Skin looks clean and completely matte post washing. It feels tighter and the pores look closed. Since it has tea tree and kaolin clay, this mask is absolutely perfect for oily, acne prone skin.

And the fact that it is multi-tasking is nice, as you can carry only this when you are travelling. Recommended.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Range Anti- Imperfection Daily Solution

Claims: Our 100% Community Trade tea tree oil is infused into the NEW Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution for just the right amount of all-over-face application, to pack a punch against blemishes. The result? A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum at an effective dosage.

MRP: Rs.1595/- for 50ml

Ingredients:

This comes in a big glass bottle with a dropper. The bottle is transparent but has a green tint.

The formula of this daily solution is very light, it feels exactly like water. It is runny and you need one pump i.e. about 8-9 drops for using all over the face. It has a strong tea tree smell.

Tea tree oil is a little concentrated and should be used only on acne and diluted with another base oil or water, if you have sensitive skin. This daily solution is already diluted and hence, safe to use all over the face, even for people with sensitive skin.

With time and regular, continuous use, it also helps in fading acne spots. It also has salicylic acid, alfalfa extracts, aloe vera, tocopherol (Vitamin E) along with tea tree oil.

It does not irritate the skin at all. I have not had any major breakouts since the time I am using this. One-two white heads on the nose, which have also settled down, on their own.

If you have always been a fan of the classic tea tree oil from The Body Shop, you will love this too! It may seem a little expensive, but the quantity offered is a lot. Especially for the Daily Solution, it is 50ml and you need 8-10 drops per use.

The main ingredient of this entire range i.e. tea tree is being sourced from Kenya, helping the farmers there and enriching their lives. As always, The Body Shop does it’s bit.

Also they have a special game created for this range ‘Battle of the Blemishes’, you can play it HERE. You can unlock special offers from The Body Shop clearing each level!

I recommend both these products for oily, acne prone skin. These are perfect additions to the Tea Tree Range.

Have you tried The Body Shop’s 3 in 1 and Daily Solution yet?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review

New Luxury Beauty Box: VanityCask | Review & Unboxing

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New Luxury Beauty Box: VanityCask | Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I have come across a new luxury beauty box in the market which is VanityCask. I tried their skincare box this month and here are my thoughts..

About: VanityCask is a beauty box that gets delivered to your home periodically. It contains samples of luxury beauty brands, handpicked by experts, to suit Indians. Our first box, for example, contains 5 skincare samples from international brands such as Clinque, Vichy, Votre, Kama and Thalgo.

MRP: Rs.999/- per box (Buy HERE)

This is their first skincare box, next they are coming up with haircare and bath & body box.

It comes in a sleek, black box packaging with a magnetic fold. They have their logo in pink on top. The box is quite sturdy and nice, the contents inside are in a pink cloth tie up bag.

Products I got:

  • Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream
  • Kama Ayurveda Rejuvenating & Brightening Night Cream
  • Thalgo Ultra Hydra Marine Mask
  • Votre Absolute Hydration Moisturizer
  • Vichy Capital Soleil SPF50 Sunscreen

Now I like the fact that they have not included sachets, but good decent sized samples. Especially Clinique & Votre are very good sizes. Even Kama Ayurveda night cream is pretty decent size. I would have liked 2-3 more tubes of Thalgo and Vichy though.

The box comes with a booklet which has more details about each box, including the key ingredients and directions to use. Also they have a few offers at the end, like this time they have the Anjali Mukherjee’s Rs.1000 voucher.

They claim to have luxury beauty brands only and each box will have 5 items. So that’s a plus point, as we know there would be no unknown brand and 5 items for sure.

I would have liked the price to be Rs.800-850 though, as Rs.999/- is a little expensive, but if I get a few more tubes of each sample, then I guess it’s fine. Also if they come up with a luxury makeup box, then I definitely don’t mind Rs.999/-. I hope soon 😀

Things I liked:

  • Decent sized samples
  • All luxury brands
  • Free Shipping & Payment on Delivery
  • Assured 5 items
  • Discounts & offers
  • Detailed booklet

Things that could be better:

  • Priced a little lower
  • More quantity of smaller tubes

Overall, I would say it’s a nice box to try if you love luxury beauty brands and would like to try more samples first, before investing in full sized products. Especially for people who don’t live in metro cities and do not have easy access to the stores to go and check out the testers or get samples. Now you can sit at home and try out these luxury beauty samples, and then order the full sized online, if the product works for you.

Have you heard of VanityCask? What do you think?