New Lakme Absolute Masaba Lip Pouts Review, Swatches
Hi guys,
Lakme has launched 10 new shades in the Lakme Absolute Matte Lip Pouts collection in association with designer Masaba Gupta.
The entire theme is candyland, so the packaging and shades are all inspired from 90’s candies.
Claims: An exclusive collection of vibrant + matte lip crayons by Masaba
Shades Available: 10
Smokey Red
Hot Chocolate
Sugar N Spice
Role A Cola
Bubble Pink
Orange Candy
Caramel Toffee
Cotton Candy
Cherry Bite
Hot Pink Queen
MRP: Rs.750/- for 3.7g
There are 5 different type of packaging in the crayons based on 90’s candies, and two shades from the same colour family have the same packaging, see more in my vlog HERE
I have 5 shades from each different colour family.
The formula is exactly the same as before, you can read my detailed review on the Lakme Absolute Matte Lip Crayons HERE
They are one of my most favourite lipstick collection from Lakme, Pink Fantasy is a forever favourite. I am glad they have added interesting shades in this range.
Pigmentation and staying power is pretty good, the orange shade is still a little patchy like last time. Even the Role A Cola. Loving the nudes in this range.
L-R:: Cherry Bite, Role A Cola, Orange Candy, Caramel Toffee, Bubble Pink
Cherry Bite is a cool toned medium red
Orange Candy is a warm bright orange
Caramel Toffee is a nude peachy brown
Bubble Pink is a cool toned pink
Role A Cola is a blue based purple
Here is a mini swatch video..
My favourites are Caramel Toffee and Bubble Pink. Role A Cola is also a nice and different shade, wish it was not patchy. I am looking forward to try Cotton Candy.
This is a limited edition collection and the packaging is super pretty. I would definitely recommend picking at least one shade, for the packaging. Most of you will love Caramel Toffee, it’s a perfect everyday shade 🙂
Which one did you like? Let me know your favourite in the comments below.
Nykaa Pout Perfect Velvet Matte Lip Pencils Review, Swatches
Hi guys,
Nykaa has been killing it with new launches day by day. Few weeks ago they had launched the Matte-ilicious Lip Crayons and now these Pout Perfect Velvet Matte Lip Pencils.
I haven’t tried the Matte-ilicious Crayons, but have been trying out these ones since more than a week now.
Here are my thoughts..
Claims: Meet Nykaa’s Pout Perfect Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, a triple-action crayon that does it all! This perfectly pigmented crayon gives you the coverage of a matte lipstick, precision of a liner, and blendability of a blusher. The blend of Vitamin E and Shea Butter creates a plush texture that adds youthful plumpness in one hot minute! Line, fill and dab some of it on your cheek for a naturally flushed look.
Plush, velvet matte finish
Enriched with Vitamin E and Shea Butter
No feathering
One stroke application
Super long-wearing
Glides on effortlessly
MRP: Rs.499/- for 4.9g
Shades Available:
Please Plum Me
Kiss N Tell Pink
Crushing on Pink
Brick Me Red
Nude Me Not
Call Me Red, Darling
It comes in the black wooden pencil packaging with a shade matching base. Other crayon from Nykaa comes with a sharpener, so I wish this came with a sharpener too. These are so light weight, that you don’t even feel the box has anything if you hold the outer box.
These are very creamy and buttery, super moisturizing and glide on easily. Very light and comfortable on the lips, easy to carry around and re-apply.
Pigmentation is pretty good too, you get opaque coverage in two swipes. They stay for a pretty good time, I have worn it for 4-5 hours but with meal, they do fade away and have to be re-applied. These are not transfer proof though.
Only thing would be these are not matte, they have a slight sheen to it all the time. There are days when I don’t want something too drying and most of the days currently, so I do reach out for these often.
They come in 6 shades and all are pretty nice and interesting, one from each colour family.
Please Plum Me is a deep aubergine/plum
Kiss N Tell Pink is a medium fuchsia pink
Crushing on Pink is a medium peachy pink
Brick Me Red is a rust red
Nude Me Not is a cool toned grey beige/greige
Call Me Red, Darling is a warm coral red
I love Please Plum Me, Kiss N Tell Pink and Nude Me Not. I do recommend these, they are pretty good for the price. I only wish they were a little more matte and came with a sharpener.
Have you tried the new Nykaa Pout Perfect Velvet Matte Lip Pencils?
These days the harsh summers are unrelenting in their heat, so each one must take care of their skin from breaking too. BB creams hence are a total rage as different brands in India have presented new formulations and new types that suit diverse skin tones and types. BB stands for a beauty balm and even some context, a blemish balm.
BB creams are multi-taskers as they are all-rounders when talking about an all-round cream that can moisturize, protect the skin from sun and even work as a foundation. It is a moisturizer, primer, sunscreen, and foundation rolled all in one. Although they cannot conceal major flaws, but can even out skin tones easily. They are a boon for working women, who must face the harsh sun, work for long hours, and even suffer from faded skin due to too much exposure. Some women are BB cream junkies, and have literally tried almost every option available in the market. Although you might have failed to find the ideal BB cream for your own skin type, one can pick up one from the following list of the best BB creams that are effective this summer.
⦁ Maybelline Clear Glow Shine Free BB Stick
The BB stick is a favorite of many people during summers. If you have oily skin and need light to medium coverage with a brilliant matte effect, then this stick can deliver it. It also allows for quick application in a few strokes and the glow will always be there. There only 2 shades available for the stick though.
⦁ Garnier All in one Miracle Perfector BB Cream
This BB cream is great budget option that delivers the much-needed glow during summers. It can even out the skin tone beautifully and all people who have oily or normal skin can use it. It comes in a single shade but is perfect for all skin tones.
⦁ Ponds White Beauty BB + Fairness Cream
This Ponds cream is capable enough to brighten up the skin instantly with good coverage option for concealing minor flaws. The cream boasts of SPF 30 that is suitable for all skin types and lasts for about 6-7 hours. Its single shade will suit light to medium skin tones too.
⦁ Deborah Milano 5 in 1 BB Cream
This BB cream provides great coverage with a matte finish while also providing 6 whopping shades to choose from.
⦁ MAC Prep and Prime Beauty Balm – SPF 35
This prime beauty balm is an ideal BB cream for many as it consists of multiple shades along with high SPF. Although it is pricey, its features and range offers bang for the buck.
⦁ Maybelline Clear Glow BB Cream
This version is different than the stick version as if offers an ideal BB cream for normal to dry skin. Additionally, consumers prefer it owing to its low coverage and availability in three shades. Certainly, one of the favorites!
⦁ Colorbar Perfect Match Beauty Balm
Colorbar is a perfect BB for oily skin and in places where humidity is quite high. The balm can balance out skin tone giving out a warm, brightening effect. Although its price is not low-end, it certainly makes waves as a near-affordable option for people with oily skin.
⦁ L’oreal Paris True Match Skin Idealizing BB Cream
Now here is a BB cream that is indeed workable as its name suggests. It has a velvet finish and hence it is ideal for use on all skin types. It adapts to your skin tone very well looking very natural and is available in 3 shades.
⦁ Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream
This brand is from Korea and is known to be one of the most effective BB creams, certainly ranking as one of the very best. The good part is that the cream comes in 5 shades, with SPF 42. It is compatible with all types of skins and perfect for summers.
⦁ Clinique Age Defense BB Cream with SPF 30
The age defense BB cream includes several anti-oxidants, which repair skin and is also known for the amount of coverage and its SPF of 30 perfect for normal as well as oily skin. This is one BB cream that is priced high but certainly a favorite for anyone who do not feel price is any issue.
The above list includes some of the best BB creams in the country which are available at Shoppers Stop.
My skin suddenly started getting dry and dull. There was always a glow but of lately I have seen it getting dull day by day. I have naturally oily and acne prone skin and therefore I never had to face skin peeling off my face. I tried facial oils and moisturizers but nothing could make a difference. I searched the internet for the ingredients and made this customized face pack. I have used this face pack throughout the winter and still using it. I noticed that with continuous usage, it kept my skin hydrated, glowing and pimple-free.
Read on to know how I prepare this face pack.
Ingredients
Besan/Gram Flour – 1tbsp.
Yogurt – 1tbsp.
Red Sandalwood Powder – ½ tbsp.
Rosehip Seed Oil (or any other facial oil that works for you) – few drops
Instructions
1. In a clean bowl, add 1tbsp. of Besan/Gram Flour.
2. Next, add ½ tbsp. Red Sandalwood Powder.
3. Add the 1tbsp. yogurt.
4. Add few drops of Rosehip Seed Oil. For extremely oily skin, you can also skip this step and add Aloe Vera juice instead.
5. With the help of a spoon, mix it well.
How to Apply
Always apply this face pack after cleansing your face. This will help the skin to benefit better from the ingredients.
Take a face pack brush and apply the face pack all over the face, leaving the eye area.
Keep it for 20-30 mins and wash off with cold water.
Pat the skin dry and apply a facial oil or moisturizer.
Benefits of The Ingredients Used
RED SANDALWOOD POWDER
First and foremost, it nourishes the skin and offers the glow and radiance. The skin remains oil free yet sufficiently hydrated and also helps to exfoliate gently. It also prevents excess secretion of oil, even out the skin tone, remove sun tan and soothes flamed skin.
Yogurt is rich in lactic acid which is an alpha hydroxy acid that dissolves dead skin cells. It hydrates the skin without making it oily, prevents breakouts and also helps to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Also, yoghurt helps to lighten the blemishes and pigmentation.
BESAN/GRAM FLOUR
Besan works magically for my oily skin. It is one of the best natural cleanser and helps to lighten the dark spots and acne scars. It reduces excessive oiliness from the skin and fight pimples naturally.
ROSEHIP OIL
Rosehip Oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, especially Vitamin C, Vitamin A (retinol), and linoleic and linolenic acids. It is the only facial oil that works wonder without making my face oily. It is anti-ageing and never broke me out. My skin was peeling due to dryness but this oil prevented and also brought back the radiance and glow to the skin.
If you remember I had previously done a post busting shaving myths, read HERE
So today I am busting another shaving myth.
Myth 2: Shaving leaves skin dry and flaky
Shaving is a form of mild exfoliation as it removes the top layer of dead skin cells along with the hair. So you feel your skin is dry/flaky if it is dehydrated and not moisturized enough! If your skin is well moisturized and then you take a shower and shave, the skin is soft and moist and you can shave in ease. Also it won’t leave any dry flakes or scaly skin.
Using the Gillette Venus Satin Shave Gel makes a huge difference in your shave and how your skin feels after! I tried one leg normally and one leg with the Satin Shave Gel, the one with the shave gel was much more moisturized and softer. And now I have switched to the new Gillette Venus Breeze, so my skin is soft and moisturized even without a separate shaving gel, because of the attached soap gel bars.
Always moisturize your skin well post shaving! The dryness, itchiness and flaky skin is only because skin is craving moisture, it is not because of shaving. If your skin will be moisturized well before and after shaving and you use the Satin Shave Gel or the new Breeze razor, there will no dry, flaky skin for sure!
I hope your doubts on skin being dry/flaky post shaving are solved. If you have any other questions related to shaving, please feel free to ask in the comments below and I would be happy to answer.
Do you shave? How has your experience been with shaving?
Summers are at it’s peak right now, as it’s May, the hottest month in India. And we all face a lot of skin problems in summers. Let’s talk a bit about that..
Skin problems we face in summers
The scorching summer heat, dust, pollution, stress and our lifestyle impact the oxygen levels in our skin. That brings along a lot of skin issues like
Dull Skin
Uneven Skin tone
Dead Skin Cells
Sun Tan
Dark Spots
Today I am reviewing the new Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach. I am not someone who bleaches regularly, I was a little wary of bleaching and used to do it occasionally. I met Dr. Rashmi Shetty at an event and asked her about bleaching, if it is bad for the skin, and to my surprise, she said not at all. She said you just need to add moisture and hydration to the skin, if you take care of it, then bleaching does no harm.
So I am quite confident about bleaching now. I have used the Oxylife bleach previously, but not this new variant and I thought of giving this a try.
Claims and Features of Oxylife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach: Gone are those days when bleaching caused a row of sirens blazing in your head. With Oxy Life Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach, your skin will feel pampered like a queen.
Enriched with active oxygen and post bleach skin radiance serum, here’s a bleach wonder that will make your life easy
Helps in eliminating dark spots
Helps even skin tone and remove sun tan
Helps repair dull skin and cleanses dead skin cells
Suitable for sensitive skin
Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Crème Bleach has patented German Technology – Oxysphere, which enables Pure Oxygen molecules to be penetrated inside the skin, giving it pure boost of Oxygen, leaving it naturally radiant.
It is also enriched with Vitamin E and Glycerin to help condition, brighten and nourish the skin and help solve 5 skin problems to give a naturally radiant looking skin.
MRP: Rs.35/- for 9g (one time use), Rs.80/- for 27g (3 uses)
Benefits of Bleaching
Bleaching helps add oxygen to the skin, making it brighter and helps in evening out skin tone and fading acne spots, etc. It also helps remove dead skin cells and repair dull skin, making it look more vivid and glowing. If you are targeting to eliminate acne scars and spots, you should do it regularly. Bleach can be used every 21 days.
How to use:
Oxylife is widely used in salons, and anytime I happen to go and ask them which bleach do they use, majorly it’s always Oxylife.
It comes with the creme bleach, powder activator, spatula, post bleach serum and an instructions manual. The creme bleach and powder activator is to be mixed in the ratio of 7:1. If you are not sure of the measurements, you can buy the one time use pack and mix both in the quantity given.
I have the 3 time use pack with me, and if you follow me on Snapchat, you must have already seen me using this.
You can mix the creme and powder in the dish that comes in the creme tub. Mix it well till the powder dissolves.
Steps of application:
Remove all makeup with a makeup remover and wash your face.
Pat dry with a tissue/paper towel.
Apply the bleach first on the Y zone i.e. the neckline, jaw and chin
Then on the the T zone i.e. the forehead, upper lip and nose
And in the last 5 minutes on the C zone i.e. the cheeks
Avoid eyes, lips, eyebrows completely. Keep it on for 10 minutes if you have deep skin, 15 minutes for wheatish skin and a little bit longer if you have fair skin.
I kept it for 10-15 minutes and washed it with normal water. I saw an immediate difference on my skin! Skin was more even toned and clear looking. The tan was all gone, and there was a fresh glow to the face.
It also works on dark spots, but with regular use, once every 21 days.
Few Pointers:
A patch test is recommended for first-time users.
Cleanse the skin well and pat dry, before use.
Creme Bleach and the activator powder should be used in the ratio of 7:1, Mix the crème bleach and powder activator for 2 minutes with the spatula provided till powder activator completely dissolves.
Apply the mixture on the area to be bleached.
Avoid application on eyebrows and around the eyes.
Wash off the application with water and Apply the post-bleach serum.
Bleach should be used once in every 21 days
Do not use soap/face wash for 5 hours after bleach.
Avoid going into sunlight immediately.
Why Oxylife Natural Radiance 5 Creme Bleach
It comes with the post bleach skin radiance serum that is very moisturizing. I can feel the glycerin in the serum and it hydrated the skin well. I do not use anything else on my face for about 12-15 hours and avoid going out. I would recommend bleaching in the evening, so that you can skip direct exposure to sunlight. Learn more about how to use oxygen bleach for face (OxyLife)
I love the fact that this is ammonia free. Whenever you bleach, go for ammonia free bleach only. My eyes get irritated and water a lot during bleach, and I was surprised that this did not irritate my eyes at all.
It fights all skin problems that come along with sun exposure, stress and pollution and gives a healthy looking radiant and glowing skin! Skin gets more oxygen, and it repairs dull skin and helps in fading acne scars/spots.
It comes in different sizes, the one time use pack is perfect for travel too.
Overall, I am really happy with the results. It does what it claims, and I highly recommend trying this out.
May 2017 Sip Of Summer My Envy Box Review, Unboxing
Hi guys,
I received the May My Envy Box today. I absolutely love the watermelon print, it’s so refreshing and looks like water colours. Although the edges came a bit torn, the box looks real good.
The theme is ‘Sip of Summer’ this month and it’s a summer edition box.
Products I received:
The Nature’s Co. Mango Creme Body Wash- Rs.695/- for 175ml
Cheryl’s Dermashade Sunblock SPF 30- Rs.550/- for 50g
Fuschia Herbal Fusion Shampoo (Rs.450/- for 100ml)
Grecobe Green Coffee (Rs.70 for 5 sachets)
Omorfee Mellow Drizzle Skin Toner (4ml x 2 vials)
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, Reine Blanche Illuminating Cream and Serum sachets
I am super impressed with the first three products, the quantity is amazing, 3 full sized products! I have tried the Cheryl’s Sunblock before and it’s quite good. The Mango body wash is perfect for the season and smells yumm.
The Fuschia shampoo is little expensive for the price, but I haven’t tried haircare from this brand, so looking to trying that out.
Green Coffee is meant to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss and improve stamina, so you can try these sachets and see if you notice any difference, before investing in the bigger size.
Rest are small samples, the Omorfee toner looks interesting though considering it has sour honey, lavender, cucumber, rose, etc.
Overall, I would say I am pretty impressed and do recommend this month’s box. The total value of the products in the box comes to around Rs.2000/-
Facial Hair Removal | How & Why I Shave + Demo | Dermaplaning
Hi guys,
Today I am talking about facial hair removal, facial shaving in particular. I have been doing it since 2.5 months now, this video is pre recorded.
Basically dermatologists do dermaplaning using their hi end tools, but it is nothing but shaving. And you can even shave using these regular facial razors.
But do not ever use the body razor on the face, the facial razor is supposed to be blunt because the facial skin is 10x thinner and softer than body skin.
You get these travel friendly, handy razors in a pack of 3 and 4. One blade lasts about 2-3 months and the whole pack comes for 250-300 which makes it very economical.
I used to thread regularly, especially eye brows and upper lips. I haven’t done it since 3-4 months now, thanks to this razor! I am so happy with the results, all it takes is 5 minutes in a week and I am sorted.
It will not make your hair grow thicker or darker and you will not get a beard, the hair growth is very normal and you will not feel any difference in hair growth or thickness, but just that you will have to continue doing it once a week.
I am personally very happy with the results, as it removes dead skin cells and makes the skin more smooth, also helping in penetration of skin care products. The makeup goes on smoother and the whole face looks neat.
I am a convert, and I am not going to get threading done again. My eye brows used to always get threaded thinner, and now I just have to shave few extra hair and I am sorted. I prefer my eye brows natural and thick, and now I can have them the way I like.
I highly recommend trying out shaving, more details in the video. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
A DAILY DIY UBTAN THAT WILL TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN FOREVER!!!
By Ankita
Hello Mi Amigas
Today, I will spare you all my usual ramblings and get straight to the point. Reason? Can’t just wait to share it with you people. This really works!!!!! Ok, let me give you a brief analogy of my skin. I have a combination skin that tends to get oily in summers (and for some reason during "those" days of the month). Though I never had a serious case of acne, I used to get recurring pimples, every now and then. And those would leave nasty marks that just REFUSED to fade.
I tried a lot of DIYs, over the counter products and dermats. But in vain. Either it would dry my skin or make it even worse. Almost a month ago my skin started behaving extra naughty with pimples and eruptions on my forehead, chin, and some around the cheek bone. This is when I came across this awesome DIY daily face mask/ubtan recommended by my mother, which brought about a complete 180 degree change to my facial skin.
Results:
-My skin doesn’t AT ALL breakout
-It balances the oil on my skin
-I do not experience any dry patches
-Can definitely see a glow
-No more tans!!!
If you want to know more this recipe from my Mom’s kitchen please stay tune till the end 🙂
DIY DAILY UBTAN
You Will Need:
– 1 tablespoon neem powder
– A pinch of Wild Turmeric
– 1/3rd teaspoon Red Sandalwood Powder
– Enough raw milk to make a paste
How to make it:
1. Take a clean bowl and add the neem powder and red sandalwood powder to it
2. Measure and add about a pinch of wild turmeric.
3. Add in required amount of raw milk to make a paste
Application
1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser
2. Run your washcloth under warm water and place it on your face till it cools down. Repeat this for 2-3 minutes.
3. Apply an even layer of the mask/ubtan on face and neck.
4. Leave it on till its semi-dry.
5. Wet your face with normal water and wash it off using very gentle circular scrubbing motions.
6. Pat dry your face with a clean towel and follow up with a gentle moisturizer or serum.
IS IT EFFECTIVE?
You can expect results such as
– instant glow on face
– brightening of dull skin
– removes tan effectively
– a subtle smoothness to skin.
-reduction in skin inflammation, pimple, and irritation if used on a regular basis
WHY THESE INGREDIENTS??
1. Neem: This humble plant has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Being a natural astringent it fades scars and keeps skin taught and smooth. Neem also contains salicylic acid that fights acne. Not to mention the carotenoids that give the skin a healthy and beautiful glow.
2. Wild Turmeric: Also known as Kasturi Manjal, this has been a part of every ayurvedic skin remedy. It has anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties. This is a champion when it comes to skin brightening and even fades away dark spots very effectively. On regular use, it is known to remove facial hair and render a smoothness to skin.
3. Red Sandalwood Powder: Referred to as Rakt Chandan, it is a must in everyone’s ‘Puja Ghar’ Unlike its white cousin, it doesn;t have any aroma and comes with a reddish tinge. But do not be afraid, it doesn’t stain your skin. With its many medicinal properties, it nourishes the skin and gives it a more radiant, even, and age-defying complexion. It also helps to remove acne, scars and other signs of premature aging.
4. Raw Milk: Raw milk works wonder for skin. Packed with B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and other potent antioxidants, it nourishes skin cells from deep within and provides ample amount of moisture to the skin. The lactic acid present in skin, removes tan, fights free radicals and helps in maintaining an ageless look.
HOW OFTEN AND WHEN DO I USE IT
Using it before bath time would be a great idea, however, you can use it at any time of the day. Use this once daily to see great results in two weeks.
IS IT SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
It is 100% safe for any skin type, however, it is always wise to go for a patch test first. The reason I call this face pack an Ubtan is, it gives you that bright glow from within, making the skin look a 100 times healthier. I would HIGHLY recommend all my readers to try it once and see the magic.
Trust me, ladies, you are going to thank me for this. I would love to hear your experiences and comments regarding this ubtan. Stay hydrated and stay gorgeous 🙂
Editor’s Note: This sounds really good Ankita, I will definitely try this!
Indian Summer Makeup Tutorial | Gold Eyes and Blue Liner
Hi guys,
I created this summer makeup tutorial apt for casual outings or even summer weddings, especially if you have blue and gold in your outfit.
I used cushion foundation and very little highlighter as you don’t want a heavy base for summers and too much shimmer on the face, coz you sweat anyway.
Products used:
PAC Cosmetics Pore Primer
MAC Conceal & Correct Palette Medium Deep
The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation Malawi Beach
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer Light
Wet N Wild Mega Glo Contouring Powder- Yellow
NYX Ombre Blush Feel The Heat
Makeup Geek Contouring Powder Complicated
NYX Refine & Define Powder Foundation
Becca Champagne Pop
NYX Dream Catcher Palette in Golden Horizons
NYX Gel Liner & Smudger in Cobalt Blue
MAC Modern Twist Kajal Cat’s Meow
Colourpop Honeydude Eyeliner
PAC Retro Matte Gloss 36 and 36
NYX Dewy Finish Setting Spray
YBP Makeup Perfector
The gold gives a nice warmth to the summer look and the pop of blue liner adds come colour. For the lips, I didn’t want something too bright or light, so mixed the two pinks to get the perfect rosy pink.
I hope you liked the look, do let me know your thoughts in the comments below 🙂
