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Nature's Essence Lacto Tan Clear Sun Tan Removal Review, Indian Beauty Blog, Skin care

Nature’s Essence Lacto Tan Clear Sun Tan Removal Review

Nature’s Essence Lacto Tan Clear Sun Tan Removal Review

By Archana

Hi all,

Summers are slowly starting and its already becoming very hot here in Bangalore. No matter what sunscreens and lotions we use, at times we get tanned badly when we are out in the sun for a very long time. Recently, I had been travelling to my aunt’s place where I spent a lot of time outdoors and hence got a very bad tan. I usually follow home remedies of besan, cucumber and lime to get rid of sun tan. But this time I was very busy in office with a project release and hence couldn’t spare time for it. I had read good reviews of this ‘Nature’s Essence Lacto Tan Clear Sun Tan Removal’ and decided to give it a try. Read on to know whether it is effective in removing sun tan.

Products claims: Milk proteins & honey enriched special tan cream helps remove the epidermal sun tan, thereby restoring the natural fairness of the skin & also preventing pigmentation due to harmful sun. Its matte effect is ideal for hot climates and the cream also helps enhance after facial glow.

Key Ingredients: Milk, honey and geranium oil.

Directions to use: Apply layer on the face/skin and keep it on for 10-15 min & after soft massage remove with water. Advised to be used every day to restore natural color & glow of the skin.

Packaging:
It comes in a yellow squeezable tube packaging with a flip-open cap very similar to the sunscreen from the same brand. Earlier it used to come in a tub packaging. But now they have revamped and come with this new tube packaging. Its better and convenient to be carried around easily.

Texture and fragrance:
It is a white-colored cream with a slight artificial fragrance. The texture is very smooth and looks very much like the bleach creams we get.

My experience:
For starters, this is neither a face pack nor a regular bleach which contains ammonia. It is actually very similar to the Spinz Sun Tan Remover which became quite popular last year. The creamy consistency makes it very easy to spread and apply. I leave it on for 15 minutes as mentioned. It causes a slight tingling sensation. I then wash it off. Since its very creamy and tends to stick, you need to massage slowly to remove it completely. After washing, I could see some of the tan, mostly the fresh tan, had been removed. But not completely. I kept using this alternate days and after 6-7 uses, almost 80% of the tan (even old tan which I had for a long time) had been removed and also lightened pigmentation and dark spots. Though its mentioned it can be used everyday, I thought it might be harsher and so went with alternate days. Skin does feel dry and stretchy post usage. So its necessary to follow up with a good moisturiser.

The efficacy of the product is really good but still I doubt whether just the key ingredients milk, honey and geranium oil can give this result. There must be lot of other chemicals added to give this effect. I felt the same with Spinz Sun Tan Remover. Actually that was even more powerful than this. It just needs 5 minutes of application and removes almost 80% tan in just a single use. And also makes your face so dry, stretchy and ghost-like. The unnatural effects of these creams makes me doubt whether it is safe to be used regularly. I would recommend using them only in rare occasions like before a party or after returning from a beach holiday with heavy tanning. Also, there is another variant in this ‘Nature’s Essence Lacto Bleach Tan Removal Cream‘. Am not sure what is the difference between them. When I looked at the key ingredients list, it was the same milk and honey, but instead of geranium oil, this one had lavender oil. Let me know if you would like a review on this as well.

Pros:
* Removes tan and restores natural color of skin.
* Lightens pigmentation and dark spots.
* Can be used for hands, foot or anywhere on the body.
* Convenient, travel friendly packaging.
* Affordable.

Cons:
* Dries out skin.
* Complete ingredients list missing.

Price and quantity: Rs.85 for 40g.

Rating: 4/5

Verdict: Nature’s Essence Lacto Tan Clear Sun Tan Removal is a quick, easy way to get rid of sun tan. Although, it is laden with chemicals and I would recommend to use only in rare situations when nothing else helps or you need instant results. Once you have managed to remove the tan, I would suggest to switch to home remedies or herbal face packs for regular maintenance.

Editor’s Note: I have used this and it works so well! It was the only product then that removed tan so quickly. Now we even have the Spinz Sun Tan Remover which does the job well, but still if you want a more natural version, then Nature’s Essence on is your best bet. Well reviewed Archana.

Top 10 Neutral Eye Shadow Palettes in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Neutral Eye Shadow Palettes in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Neutral eye makeup are the ‘in’ thing now and no matter it is daytime makeup look or night one, neutral eye always turns out to be the glamorous one. Improvising with neutral look is the safest choice if you are unable to decide the look you want. On Indian skin, the neutral look suits the best with pale browns, taupe, soft copper and bronze. Just add a dash of winged liner and a rocking lip color, which would give you a simple yet stunning look. These kind of looks can hardly be creates with one of two colors and you need a proper palette at your disposal. Hence, I thought of doing an affordable list of best Neutral Eye Shadow Palette in India. These brands are readily available in various e-commerce sites or retailed easily in the market. So, let’s take a look at the list.

1. Maybelline The Nudes – 899 INR (BUY HERE)

No matter what makeup it is, Maybelline will always top the list for me. The Nudes palette is has 12shades of various neutrals like browns, grey, bronze, and taupe with few matte and shimmery highlighters for various looks. It is perfect for both warm and cool skin tones and a number of looks can be created with this one. The texture is soft and the pigmentation is also good for daily wear. This is surely a great neutral palette for the price tag.

2. Urban Decay Naked – (Approx. 5000 INR)

The ultimate madness for neutrals started with the UD palettes and honestly, I can never decide which one to choose between the three. UD Naked palettes are legendary! Each of them is gorgeous to the core and undeniably amazing. Each palettes consists 12 colors and best for creating any neutral or soft smoky look. The texture is just like butter and highly pigmented. It is very easy to blend and layer and known for its outstanding quality. The staying power and finish is also commendable. Although the price is high but totally worth it.

3. Makeup Revolution Iconic 2 Palette – 1050 INR (BUY HERE for 790)

The Iconic range of Makeup Revolution is the dupe of UD palettes and are easily available in India as well. UD costs a bomb and hence when we want an affordable dupe, Makeup Revolution is the best deal we can get. Among all the Iconic and Iconic Pro, my favorite for neutrals will be the Iconic 2 which is the dupe of UD Naked 2. The combination of colors are very pretty with bronze, soft browns, grey, black and shimmery highlighters. It is a perfect daytime palettes and readily available on discounts as well.

4. MUA Heaven and Earth Palette – 1050 INR

One of the best neutral brown palettes I have used so far! Though most of the shades are shimmery finish but they look exceptionally natural on the eyelids. Most of the colors are warm toned and especially suit the Indian skin tones. The texture is very soft and pretty blend-able. The pigmentation is also good and you can layer it very nicely if you want that intense look. MUA also has the palette “Undress Me Too” (Review & Swatches HERE) which is another great palette for cool toned and grey colors. P.S: While Heaven and Earth is Urban Decay Naked Dupe, the Undress Me Too is Urban Decay Naked 2 Dupe

5. L’Oreal Paris Color Riche La Palette – 1399 INR (BUY HERE for 1119)

The Color Riche La Palette from L’Oreal Paris comes in a sturdy black casing with a double tip sponge applicator and an in-built mirror. It is a very recent launch in India and is available in 2 shades – Beige and Rose. The colors are very similar but has slight changes in them. The Beige one is lighter than the Rose. In my opinion, the Rose will be a perfect choice for the Indian skin tones with a handful of deep colors and various neutrals to choose from.

6. Sleek MakeUP I-Divine Makeup Au Naturel Palette – 1500 INR

This is a brand I surely want to be officially available in India! Their quality is impeccable and the price is comparatively affordable even after shipping and taxes. The texture is soft and creamy powdery and has very less fall out issues. The pigmentation is as gorgeous as it can get with single swipe itself! Their i-divine palettes are incredibly good and when it comes to neutrals, there are two best of the best – Au Naturel and Oh So Special. Au Naturel has beautiful peaches and deep browns and a jet matte black for night time look. Overall, it is a highly recommended one. (All Sleek MakeUP Review and Swatches HERE)

7. Makeup Revolution I Heart Chocolate – 1550 INR (Available on Nykaa)

The ‘Chocolate’ series of Makeup Revolution is worth all the attention is has. These are the dupes of the high end Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette. Of course, Too Faced is high priced and often out of stock. However, the Makeup Revolution one is available and the quality is definite worth talking about. The blend of browns, burgundy, deep chocolate, beige and pearly highlighters is just as craving as a chocolate bar. The pigmentation is very good and a lot of day and night time looks can be easily created with this. P.S: I have the Too Faced Palette and I know how exactly similar this is, at 1/4th the price, this is definitely a must have!

8. Freedom Pro 12 Stunning Smokes – 1200 INR (Available on Nykaa)

Freedom is another London Based makeup brand and becoming very prominent in the beauty market in India. Their Pro 12 palettes are excessively popular with various mattes, nudes, shimmery and deep colors. The best neutral palette is the Stunning Smokes which has 12 gorgeous mixture of mattes and shimmery colors. The colors are so pigmented that even the lighter ones shows up pretty well on the lids and the texture is also a total winner.

9. FACES Glam On Color Perfect Eyeshadow Smokey – 599 INR

A quad of 4 shimmery beautiful colors – bronze, plum, taupe and a pearly highlighter with an affordable price tag is surely worth trying. The packaging is sturdy and compact which comes with a mirror and an applicator. The texture is soft with a decent saturation of color. It works well even without primers and will suit the cool and neutral skin tones very well.

10. Coastal Scents Revealed 2 Palette – 2300 INR

This is the closest dupe of the renowned Urban Decay Naked 2 and Naked 3. There are 20 colors in this palettes, consisting of various shimmery and matte peach, browns, burgundy and taupe. The texture is very soft and blends profusely on the lids. The pigmentation is also good and helps you the layer the deeper color easily. It has a very good staying power of 5-6hours without primer and the palette, overall, is a great value for money.

Editor’s Note: I love the Sleek MakeUP Oh So Special palette, it’s my favourite. And also the Too Faced Chocolate bar Palette, the Makeup Revolution I Heart Chocolate is an exact dupe shade to shade, another must have! I want to try the Coastal Scents Revealed 2. This is a very useful compilation Sanchita.

Tell us your favourite neutral eyeshadow palette in India, in the comments below.

Lakme 9 to 5 Lip Color Pink Bureau Review, Swatches

Lakme 9 to 5 Lip Color Pink Bureau Review, Swatches

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION

It is all about matte now-a-days. Although I am a big fan of chubby lip colors and the ultra-matte liquid lipsticks, I always find my way back to lipstick bullets when I am heading out to college. For daytime, I always stick to the mundane soft pink lip colors and Lakme 9 to 5 is the apt range for this. They have around 38 shades of various browns, reds and pinks to offer. I have used 2-3colors from this range few years back and was pretty impressed. This year I picked a beautiful pink color for daytime called Pink Bureau. Here’s my review on the product.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Lakmé Nine to Five brings you a range of 38 shades that sit on your lips all day long. Enriched with Vitamin E; it conditions your lips & softens them with wheat germ oil. So, perk those soft, smooth lips with a touch of matte.

PRICE – 400 INR

MY REVIEW

Packaging – The first and foremost reason I am attracted to this range of lip colors is their gorgeous packaging. The rose gold colored lipstick bullets is something like a beautiful possession in my handbag. Kudos to Lakme for blending two beautiful things women adore – rose and gold. The lipstick comes in a light weight rose gold body with the twist open function. It shuts really tight and hence easy to travel with. The lipstick is further encased in a cardboard box of tea rose color.

Shade – The shade is a soft rose pink with micro golden shimmer particles. The color has a natural warmth to it and is specifically tailored to suit each and every complexion. For fair skin tones, it will comes out as a lively pink (not loud though), for medium to dusky skin it will appear as nice soft coral pink while for deeper complexions, it will be an MLBB pink. The gold shimmers are not very visible but their presence gives a duo chrome touch to the lips under sunlight.

Pigmentation – The pigmentation is really great. With single swipe you can get an opaque layer. It successfully hides and conceal every blemishes and discolorations on lips and you won’t even need a lip concealer underneath. It applies evenly on the lips and there isn’t any patchy layer at all. The color doesn’t bleed at all and you won’t even require a lip liner underneath to bring out the dynamism of the lipstick.

Texture – Texture wise, I would call it powdery matte. The texture reminds me so much of the beloved Chambor Powder Matte I have used before and glides on the lips with a velvet touch. Although there are shimmers but it doesn’t feel even tad bit abrasive at all. Now, the downside is it feels dry. It isn’t very forgiving at all if you have dry lips. So make sure you have exfoliated and well-nourished the lips with a nice and hydrated lip balm underneath. Also, the texture is smooth but if you try to go more than two coats, you will realize that lipsticks can look super cakey.

Finish – the finish is soft matte from the very beginning. I wouldn’t call it as dry as lip creams but the enriching presence of Vitamin E gives a nourished look. However, do not expect it to hydrate your lips at all. The gold shimmers starts being prominent once the color loses it vivacity with the passage of time. It won’t look gaudy but slightly shiny. The lipstick also transfer a lot to cups and spoons while eating.

Staying Power – the staying is definite not 9 to 5 as claims but it does survives around 4-5hours easily. It can subsist even after small snacks or brunch but definitely not a full course meal. After meal, you would need a slight retouch by dabbing the color onto the lips. It fades off leaving a trail of pinkish golden hue to the lips and I realized there isn’t any patchiness even though the lip color felt dry. For the price, I think they have beautiful texture and staying power.

OVERALL – the Lakme 9 to 5 Lipstick Pink Bureau is a gorgeous and muted pink to worn at any time and it gives a soft touch of pink during daytime. It has a wonderful powder matte texture with amazing pigmentation and fairly long staying power.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Gorgeous rose gold packaging.
  • Lakme 9 to 5 Lipstick Pink Bureau is a soft rose pink with micro golden shimmer particles.
  • It will suit each and every complexions.
  • A single swipe of the lipstick gives a proper saturated color.
  • It has powdery matte texture.
  • The color doesn’t bleed at all.
  • Soft matte finish for a daytime lip color.
  • It does survives around 4-5hours easily.
  • It fades off with an even pink hue to the lips.
  • Reasonably priced.

WHAT I DISLIKED

  • Formula is drying and unforgiving for dry lips.
  • It may look cakey if too many layers are applied.
  • The shimmer becomes prominent once the color starts fading.

RATING – 4/5

RECOMMENDATION – with 38 shades to choose from, the Lakme 9 to 5 range of Lipsticks surely deserves recommendation. The price are perfect and often on discounts. The colors are soft and perfect for daytime and the texture and finish are on point. I would highly recommend this color as well as the range for the versatility of soft daytime shades.

Editor’s Note: Totally agree on the gorgeous packaging, I have no idea why they have added gold shimmer to the beautiful matte pinks. I have the shade Peony Goal which is again a beautiful nude pink but even that has shimmer, I do not like shimmer in my lipsticks.

How To Unclog Facial Pores Naturally

How To Unclog Facial Pores Naturally

By Somreeta

If you wish to keep pimples, blackheads and acne at bay, it is important for you to clear the clogged pores in your skin. Deep cleansing and exfoliation at regular intervals help in doing away with the dead skin cells, oil, dirt and impurities that clog the pores. Keep reading for the best tips and tricks to unclog facial skin pores naturally.

How To Unclog Facial Pores Naturally: Top 3 Tips

1. STEAMING: Steaming is one of the cheapest yet most effective natural treatments that help remove the dirt and grease that have accumulated in the pores of the skin. Heat water in a pot and cover it with a lid. As soon as the water starts producing steam, remove it from the source of heat and lean over the pot of steaming water, while covering your head with a towel. Make sure that the steam touches your face. For added benefits, add a few drops of tea tree essential oil to the water. Steam your face for about 5 to 7 minutes. Whenever you feel that the steam is too hot for you to put up with, take a short break. After you are done with steaming your face, pat your skin dry and follow up with a toner and a mild non-comedogenic moisturizer. Steaming your face once a week is indeed a great practice.

2. EXFOLIATION: Exfoliate your skin to chuck out the impurities off the pores of your facial skin. Mix baking soda (2 tablespoons) with cinnamon powder (1 tablespoon) and honey (4 tablespoons). Add the juice of half-a-lemon to the mixture and apply the concoction on your face. Rinse with water after 5 minutes. Baking soda is an excellent exfoliating agent that is gentle on the skin and helps unplug clogged pores. If you are not comfortable using baking soda and lemon juice on skin, you can try out the honey-sugar scrub recipe. Mix 4 tablespoons of green tea with honey and sugar, a tablespoon each. Scrub your face with this homemade scrub and wash off with water. Follow up with a mild moisturizer.

3. APPLICATION OF CLAY MASKS: Clay masks are known to draw out the oil and grease from the skin pores efficiently. Mix bentonite clay, oatmeal powder and water, one tablespoon each. Apply this clay mask on your face. Once it dries up, rinse thoroughly with water. Follow up with a good quality moisturizer to prevent dryness.

A weekly skincare regimen, consisting of steaming, cleansing, scrubbing, toning and moisturizing could go a long way in preventing clogged pores. Unclog your facial pores naturally and keep your skin smooth and glowing, always!

Editor’s Note: Totally believe in all three, while steaming doesn’t happen always. Even a warm muslin cloth works at times. And clay masks are so amazing to pull out the dirt and perfect for oily skin to keep oil at bay.

Do you follow these tips regularly?

Image Source: 1,2,3

My Current Makeup Wishlist

My Current Makeup Wishlist

Hi guys,

I do have a secret makeup wishlist like all girls, obvious no. So I thought of sharing my makeup wishlist with you all today. Of course these items are not ‘need’ coz I have so many other alternatives in my stash already, but ‘want’ 😀

1. theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer

Now this is on my wishlist since a long time, but it it so expensive here in India, it’s more than double the rate. Definitely getting this when I or someone close flies outside. It is supposed to be the best highlighter ever! And I love highlighters

2. Lorac Pro Palette

I have heard so much about this and it looks beautiful with all the super pigmented warm colors, but I have already own lots of palettes, like way too many! Umm..confused about this, but wouldn’t mind if someone gifts me this 😉

3. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

I don’t anything from Nars yet and this concealer is raved about by all the YouTubers, definitely would love to try this.

4. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick

Matte, long lasting, comes in 28 shades, comfortable, 100% cruelty free, what’s not to love!

5. Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick

Same as above but comes in 22 shades. Liquid lipsticks are all the rage and Kat Von D and Anastasia ones are I believe the most famous and raved ones. I would love to try them and experience for myself.

6. Colourpop Lippie Stix/Ultra Satin/Ultra Matte

Colourpop is one brand that is creating a stir in the makeup/beauty world since the past 1-1.5 years. I want to try their Ultra Satin, Ultra Matte Lip colors especially the Kathleen Lights shade and the Lippie Stix too.

7. Makeup Geek Eyeshadows/Blushes

Not that I don’t have eyeshadows, I have gazillion, but the Makeup Geek ones look really nice. Again a case of ‘want’ and not ‘need’, so stopping myself from splurging.

Ya I think that is pretty much it for now 😀 I will add things or make a new wishlist if I have enough things in my wishlist, haha.

What is on your wishlist? Let me know in the comments below.

March 2016 ‘More Power To You’ Fab Bag Unboxing & Review

March 2016 ‘More Power To You’ Fab Bag Unboxing & Review

Hi guys,

I just now got the March Fab Bag, it’s the ‘More Power To You’ Women’s Day/Month theme.

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

It’s a metallic silver textured bag and I knew the Sugar Cosmetics Matte Lipstick is a part of the bag coz I saw it on their Instagram page and assumed it would be this brand.

Let’s see what all I got:

  • Sugar Cosmetics ‘It’s A Pout Time’ Matte Vivid Lipstick in 03 Mad Magenta (Full sized)- Rs.599/-
  • Wella Professionals Elements Shampoo (30ml)- Rs.175/-
  • Wella Professionals Elements Conditioner (30ml)- Rs.200/-
  • Nykaa Strawberries & Cream Nail Enamel (5ml)- Rs.149/- for 10ml
  • Nyassa Tiramisu Body Scrub (30g)- Rs.900/- for 200g

I really like the Wella Pro Elements Range, read my review HERE. It is SLS and paraben free and perfect for colored/treated hair, this deluxe sample size is perfect to try out and/or for travel.

I am loving the Sugar Matte Lipstick, love their Matte Crayon too, so was looking forward to the lipstick. Quite excited to try that out. It comes in this magenta pink shade, a muted berry, a nude and a coral.

I have 3-4 of Nykaa nail paints and they are quite decent, I love this summery shade and would definitely be wearing it.

The Nyassa Tiramisu Body Scrub smells amazing, but since it’s a body scrub, this 30g sample would only work once.

Overall, I would say it’s a mixed bag, not a must have but pretty decent if you are into matte lipsticks and wanted to try the Wella Pro Elements Range, a nail paint and bag are added bonus 😀

The value of the products come to around Rs.1200/- which is still not bad and the deluxe sizes are decent too.

What did you get in your March Fab Bag? Do let me know in the comments below.

Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Colour Poetry Pink Review, Swatches

Coloressence Mesmerizing Lip Colour Poetry Pink Review, Swatches

By Ishleen

Hello munchkins!

I know its been quite some time since I spoke to you darlings, and I am so sorry for the long disappearance! But today I am here to make up for my absence with this gorgeous review of one of my first and my most favourite matte deep pink lipsticks! I mean this was the first ever deep pink lipstick I ever owned, and I do not know why I had stopped using it as of late! But with the responsibility of reviewing it, I finally got a chance to use it again, and fall in love, all over again!

What Coloressence says?

Mesmerising Lip Colour, a unique combination of coriander and basil extract. This lip colour nourishes, protects, moisturizes and is hypoallergenic. Volumises the lips.

Ingredients:

Although the full ingredient list was not mentioned but the active ingredients are mentioned here!
Almond Oil, Vitamin E. 100% Vegetarian. No animal ingredients used!

Price and Quantity: 175 INR for 4 grams of product (pretty cool, huh?)

Packaging

Packaging wise, coloressence lipsticks have never impressed me much but this lipstick still looks pretty classy for the price it comes at! It comes in a very sturdy m ate black packaging with silver detailing and a functional silver bullet! The packaging is all in all really sturdy, and elegant, so thumbs up for that!

Shade

As I said, the shade is love at first sight! Such a pretty wearable deep pink which isn’t bright but still adds warmth to your skin! The shade is precisely a deep red-toned pink which does not look OTT even during day time and is pretty wearable for Indian skin tones! A perfect deep pink for beginners.

Texture

Texture wise this lipstick is a dud! Excessively dry, tugs on the lips, settles into fine lines and application is a nightmare! I mean it is so dry that I have to pull it across my lips in order to cover the entire lip line! Settles into a completely matte finish but makes the lips look parched! I mean looking at the shade, this rough texture is really sad to work with!

Pigmentation and Coverage

Despite being excessively dry and all that shizz, this pretty baby is bang on pigmentation! Loade don colored pigments which impart a full blown colour in just two tugging swipes! And is fully capable of covering up any pigmentations in 3 swipes max!

Staying Power

As this lipstick has a matte finish, it is relatively long staying! Though I wouldn’t say that it does not transfer, because it does, but that is unnoticeable! Thus giving a wear time of a good 5 hours before smudging off the edges and leaving behind stained lip look!

Pros

Lovely colour
Sturdy, elegant packaging
Full on pigmented
Covers lip pigmentation
Stays put for 4-5 hours straight

Cons

Excessively dry texture
Settles into lip lines
Makes the lip look parched
Does not apply well

Final Recommendation

If you are a hardcore matte lover and do not mind your lipsticks to be drying and shizz, you are going to love this gorgeous little deep pink matte lipstick!

Rating: 3.7/5

Editor’s Note: That’s such a pretty shade, would work on all skin tones from fair to dusky. It’s a perfect Priyanka Chopra kind of shade, she wears such brick reds and deep reddish pinks.

Have you tried Coloressence Lipsticks? Which is your favourite shade?

Trending Beauty Hacks That All Lazy Girls Should Know

Trending Beauty Hacks That All Lazy Girls Should Know

Sadly girls today don’t find much time to indulge in relaxed beauty services at home due to demanding work-life balance. With these simple yet quick beauty hacks, it’s possible to look your best without feeling guilty and out-of-date.

So here you go lazy girls, incorporate these effective beauty hacks, without all the time and effort in the world!

Brighten up your tired eyes

A little bottle of mascara cab does the trick. If you are suffering from puffy/swollen or sleepy eyes? Mascara application can immediately brighten your face.

Define your bushy eyebrows

If your busy schedule as well laziness has resulted in bushy and unkempt eyebrows than simply swipe two coats of clear mascara. It will automatically hold and define your eyebrows.

Facial Bliss

If you are suffering from tired and dull skin and have no time for facials than simply get facial sheets. It’s easily available in the market, are super effective as well as easy to use. However, if you have time over the weekends and are looking for a relaxed and professional service, try UrbanClap app for salon services at home. It is a one-stop destination for all urban lifestyle services.

Dry and rough toes

No time for pedicure? While taking a shower simply use pumice stone and say goodbye to dry and uneven skin. Do it regularly for a prolonged effect.

Fight disobedient hair

When your hair seems super messy and as usual you are running late for office, then making a top knot is the safest bet.

Perfume that stays effective for long

If you want your perfume to last longer, simply rub Vaseline on your pulse points before applying the perfume i.e. behind the ears, on the wrists and behind the knees. It will save you from having to re-apply.

Say no to dry hands and feet

Dry hands and feet can leave you embarrassed. Keep your moisturizer next to your bed and religiously apply it before bedtime. Every morning you will wake up to soft and supple skin.

For effortless waves

If you have washed your hair but have no time for a blow dry then simply tie up your hair into a bun and let it stay like that. Once it’s dry just shake it and voila you achieve soft curls instantly.

Quickly dry nails

Painted nails can instantly make your hands look beautiful. However, on the other hand messy nail paint can be a big turn-off. To quickly dry nail paint, dip your freshly painted nails into ice-cold water.

Use in a shower gel combined with moisturizer

Applying body lotion can take a lot of time. In order to save on time, purchase a shower gel with moisturizer.

Fast and easy blow dry session

Blow dry your hair upside down, not only it saves time but also adds volume to your hair.

Cover those roots

In order to get thicker mane as well to hide those incoming roots, it’s best to brush a little black eye-shadow onto your parting.

Concealer for dark under eye circles

Nothing looks worse on your face as compared to deep and dark under eye circles. A concealer can come handy to quickly achieve a flawless look.

Credit card usage

Applying eye-liner or mascara can easily turn into a messy affair especially when you are running late. Worry not, simply hold your credit card underneath your lashes, excess of product will stick to the card instead of your face and within no time you will get bright and beautiful eyes.

Achieve squeaky clean scalp

Baking soda has multiple uses. Apart from being used in kitchen, baking soda can also help you get rid of hair buildup. Just sprinkle a little amount into your shampoo and get light, clean and fresh strands.

Have fun while using these simple yet effective beauty hacks!

DIY Facial Serum for Night

DIY Facial Serum for Night

By Sanchita

To begin with, I have extremely sensitive, acne prone, oily skin that is always on the verge of breakouts. Due to this reason, I avoid moisturizers (except for aloe vera gel) all my life. However, as I am approaching towards late 20s, I have been noticing that the texture of the skin looks very unhealthy and that natural glow is missing somewhere. Hence, I wanted something to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. After searching high and low for all the ingredients that works on acne prone skin without giving much trouble, I made this night serum for myself and to my surprise, I did work! I have been using it past a month and thankfully I observed some good changes in my skin. Firstly, it never broke me out and also nourished the skin. Secondly, it hydrates the skin throughout the night with getting oily or greasy. So, here goes the night elixir for acne prone skin.

INGREDIENTS:

  • Aloe Vera Gel – you can either take it directly from the plants and blend it smooth to have the gel consistency or simple buy one!
  • Jojoba Oil – Works wonder for oily acne prone skin. You can also substitute it for Avocado OR Almond Oil for preference.
  • Rose Water – either homemade or store-bought will work.
  • Vitamin E Capsule – easily available across the counter otherwise you can also opt for Vitamin E oil.
  • Sanitized Bowl – since it is a face product, it is better to have a sanitized place to start with and then transfer it to a dropper bottle or any container.

STEPS

Step 1
  • Add 1 tbsp. of rose water in the bowl.
Step 2
  • Next, add 2 tbsp. of aloe vera gel. Mix it thoroughly as both the ingredients have different consistencies and takes effort to blend well. You can also add 1 tbsp. if you want a runny consistency but I wanted sort of a slightly thicker one, so I added 2 tbsp.
Step 3
  • Add 2-3 drops of Jojoba Oil and again blend it in.
Step 4
  • Lastly, take out 1-2 Vitamin E Capsules and poke them to take out the oil. Add the mixture very comprehensively unless you see a uniform consistency without any lumps.
Final outcome
  • And Voila! You night serum is ready!

TIP: Do not make it in a large quantity because it is handmade and hence, the preservatives are missing. Make it enough for a week or two at the most.

FOR DRY SKIN – Since dry skin or mature skin needs more than just aloe vera gel, they can use shea butter or cocoa butter instead of aloe vera gel. They can also incorporate the essential oils like Almond, Rosehip, Grapeseed, etc. as per their own preference.

BENEFITS OF THE INGREDIENTS –

  • Vitamin E – Vitamin E is the main ingredient I would vouch for. It has excellent properties to revive and renew the skin cells at night. It treats the scars and marks on the skin due to ageing or acne. Being a great moisturizer, it nourishes the skin well without making it greasy or clog the pores when applied. It soothes and treats the sun burns and regular tanning of the skin. Most prominently, it make collagen that decreases the rate of aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
  • Aloe Vera Gel – this is the HG for every oily skin. Seldom moisturizers suit us and we always find our way back to this. Aloe Vera, known as “plant of immortality”, it has numerous benefits for skin. It moisturizes the skin, heals the scars and soothes the skin from acne and nourishes without any greasy layer which gets absorbed in a jiffy. It also lightens skin pigmentation and slows down the ageing sign.
  • Jojoba Oil – it is known to fight wrinkles, stretch marks and cellulite. With high amount of ceramides which cover skin cells, it hydrates and nourishes the skin like no other. Oily skin doesn’t go well with other oils but this is an exception. It is so light weight and gets blended very easily. It also has anti-bacterial properties that treats acne and allergies.
  • Rose Water – the beauty of rose water in indefinite. From toner to face packs, makeup setting spray to hydration – it can do everything. It treats acne, soothes the skin from sun burns, refreshes and invigorates and has many anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for sensitive skin.

Do let me know how you liked the DIY.

Editor’s Note: I swear by Vitamin E capsules, but they are so sticky and messy while applying. I guess the mix of rose water and aloe vera gel will make applying Vitamin E easier. Also I am all for essential oils, I love using them. Definitely trying this Sanchita.

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Youth Activating Serum + Crème Review

Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Youth Activating Serum + Crème Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing one of my favourite products from the Lotus Herbals YouthRx Range, the Serum + Creme.

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

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

2. Crème nourishes, hydrates and restores skin moisture.

MRP: Rs.695/- for 30ml

Directions:

Ingredients:

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

It smells really nice and the packaging is quite good. The bottle is sturdy and perfect for travel too. I only carry this when I am going to my parents’ place for 1-2 days as it solves the purpose of both a serum and a moisturizer.

Skin feels soft and supple immediately, it hydrates the skin but does not leave a heavy, greasy feeling. You can use only this in summers, for winters, I would suggest following up with the Day Cream from the same range.

I love the Ginseng, Ginger, Milk Peptide i.e. GinePlex ingredients, you can feel it working on the skin. It is definitely soothing, I can’t really comment on lifting but skin does feel firmer with regular usage.

It is not just meant for 30+ or anti-ageing, I would recommend it to everyone in mid 20’s too, I am in my late 20’s and definitely loving it.

Even though it is slightly on the expensive side, but the ingredients are impressive and it definitely works. Also a little goes a long way.

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money : 3.75/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Have you tried the new Lotus Herbals YOUTHRx Youth Activating Serum + Crème?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review