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Top 10 Faces Cosmetics Products in India, Prices, Buy Online, Faces Canada, Indian Makeup Blog

Top 10 Faces Cosmetics Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Faces Cosmetics Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Hello everyone, I am back with another Top 10 list from a very well-known brand in recent times. Even if you would have asked me 2 years back to do a Top 10 with FACES Canada, I would have found it really difficult. Now, the scenario is totally changed and they have plethora of products to choose from. Over these years, they have really upgraded the quality of products and they are quite reasonable too. I have also noticed that the availability is good and easily accessible from online stores too. There are some of the products from FACES Canada that have become my HG ones.

So, here’s my list of Top 10 products that surely deserves to be included in your list of makeup. Let’s have a look at it.

1. FACES Ultime Pro Metaliglow – (799 INR) Review & Swatches HERE

Starting with this amazing and gorgeous highlighter that I literally use it every time when I am stepping out of the house. It comes in three shades – Opal (fair skin tones), Champagne (fair to medium skin tones) and Topaz (dusky skin tones). It has a gel-like texture that blends into the skin without much effort but you have to do it quickly because it has the tendency to settle down sooner than you can imagine. You can also mix with any foundation to get that luminosity and its looks totally natural. Bhumika has reviewed the shades Opal and Champagne and this one is a highly recommended from her side as well.

2. FACES Ultime Pro Matte Lip Crayons – (799 INR) Review & Swatches HERE (BUY HERE for 675)

Chubby lip crayons are new trend and every brand has their own versions. FACES Canada, too, brought forward their versions and the quality is impeccable. It is available in 10 shades for now and the shades Peach Me, Midnight Rose and Sugar Coated has already been reviewed in detail on NLM, so surely check it out. The texture is soft and creamy which glides like a dream and settles down with a matte formula. The shade Midnight Rose is a must have from their collection.

3. FACES Magnet Eyes Kajal – (175 INR) (BUY HERE)

One of the best, creamiest and long wearing kajal in the Indian market today. It comes in a retractable red plastic body and looks very chic and pretty. The texture is soft and creamy and glides on the eyes without tugging or pulling at all. The formula is water proof and smudge proof with a staying power of around 6-7hours easily. The pigmentation is great and makes the product really stand out. It gives a jet black color when applied on the water line as well. Overall, the price makes it great for a daily wear kajal.

4. FACES Canada Ultime Pro Mineral Loose Powder – (699 INR) (BUY HERE)

With an innovative non-comedogenic formulation which offers protection from harmful UV radiation, the FACES Canada Ultime Pro Mineral Loose Powder comes in a very unique and convenient packaging with a sponge attached to the lid. The powder gives a soft blurry effect to the pores and smoothens out the skin tone with its light to medium coverage. The finish is matte but doesn’t clings on to dry patches. The powders are mostly neutral tones and thus doesn’t makes you look whitish or chalky. The oil control is around 4hours and after that you might need touch ups.

5. FACES Hi-Shine Nail Enamel – (199 INR) Review HERE

Available in more than 70 shades, the FACES Hi-Shine Nail Enamels are truly superb in quality. It comes in a thick glass bottle and delivers a glossy and high shine formula to the nails. The nail enamels contain a blend of non-harmful plasticizers which modify the nail enamel film to be flexible, thus resisting chipping and cracking. It also provides proper hardness, gloss and adhesion to the nail. These lacquers are TOLUENE & DBP, Camphor and Formaldehyde free and won’t damage the nails in the long run.

6. FACES Long Wear Eye Pencil – (449 INR) Review HERE

The FACES Long Wear Eye Pencils are considered to be one of the best eye pencil with a reasonable price tag. It is available in 9 shades and each of them has a beauty of its own. The texture is soft and creamy and hence you can easily create smoky eyes with it. It gives a matte finish after setting down within 5-10mins and has a water proof and smudge proof formula. Free of preservatives, dermatologically and ophthalmologically approved, the eye pencil are great for water line too. The shade Black and Navy Blue are the raved ones in the collection.

7. FACES Ultime Pro Velvet Matte Lipstick – (649 INR)

FACES Ultime Pro Velvet Matte Lipstick claims to be an exclusive lipstick with an unbeatable gliding quality and unique satin finish. It comes with a sleek matte black packaging with twist up function. The texture is truly creamy and glides like anything on the lips. It is one of the most comfortable matte finish that doesn’t dry out the lips sucking life out of it. However, do make sure to scrub and prep your lips before you apply the lip color. The staying power is commendable and you are a matte lippy lover, you have to try this out.

8. FACES Ultime Pro Eyeshadow Crayon – (799 INR) Review HERE

The FACES Ultime Pro Eyeshadow Crayons are one of the recent launches from the brand and truly an amazing one. It is available in 6 shades for now with pretty names and comes in a sharpenable chubby pencil packaging along with a free sharpener. The color coded packaging is extremely good and the eye shadows are pretty long wearing. The texture is smooth and creamy which makes it perfect to blend and layer as much as you want. The pigmentation is also great and application is so easy that a beginner can also use these.

9. FACES Prime Perfect Foundation – (699 INR)

The foundation is considered one of the best foundations for the oily to combination skin for the summers. It comes in 5 shades although dusky complexions might not find a good match. It is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid that delivers deep hydration & keeps skin nourished with sun protection and anti-ageing formula. The texture is creamy but it sets very quickly hence needs to be blended fast. The coverage is medium to buildable but gives a great finish of satin matte to the skin. For the price, I would say that this is a great foundation for daily wear with a wear time of 5-6hours.

10. FACES Sparkle Dust Stackable – (899 INR) Review & Swatches HERE (BUY HERE for 722)

The Sparkle Dust Stackable are stack of 6 color sparkles comes in 4 different family of shades. These are fine milled glitters with powdery texture and Bhumika has already shown in her review that these can be used as eyeshadow, eyeliner, glitter nail paint, highlighters, blushes, etc. So have your fun and experiment with these amazing glitters for a very reasonable price.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely love some of the Faces Products, and they keep launching something new. Currently they are revamping all the old stuff into new packaging and formula. The Faces Eye Pencils are the best, have been using them since they were priced at 249, they have increased the prices a lot now! Also would like to add their skincare range, new Faces Ultime Pro Matte Lip Crayons and their Moisture Rich Lipsticks. Even their blushes are quite good.

So, what is your favorite product from Faces Canada?

Burt’s Bees Replenishing Regenerant Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil Review

Burt’s Bees Replenishing Regenerant Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil Review

By Nidhal

There’s no shortage of lip balms in an average lady’s armoury but still, one cannot simply get over them, right? There will always be a lip balm that will entice you towards itself the way we are lured to the kitchen when our mothers whip our favourite dish 😛

One lip balm that has been on my to-buy list has been BURTS BEES REPLENISHING REGENERANT LIP BALM. Since winters have wrapped up, I have bid adieu to my lip butters and cleared my ‘armoury’ to make way for lip balms. It goes without saying that after burning a hole in my pocket, I managed to grab this lip balm and today, its report card by me is right before your eyes. Scroll to see if it emerged with flying colours or flunked.

PRICE- Rs 950/- for 4.25 g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Glide on lips as often as desired.

INGREDIENTS- Not mentioned

WHAT IT CLAIMS– Give your thirsty lips a whole lot of love with our lip balm with antioxidant-rich Pomegranate Oil. 100% natural, it happily hydrates and revitalizes your lips with a hint of color for an even, beautifully toned appearance.

• Packed with the power of Pomegranate Oil.
• Sweet Pomegranate flavor.
• Single tubes and twinpack available

MY EXPERIENCE-

Burt’s bees replenishing regenerant lip balm comes packed in a cardboard container with the main balm being ensconced in a sturdy plastic tube with a cap on top. Due to the provision of the balm in a tube, I find it a lot less troublesome to use than lip butters which require the user to dip their fingers in the tub of the lip butter. Its cap is sturdy too and hasn’t lost its grip despite a month of use. On the whole, it is up to the mark in terms of packaging.

The balm has a smooth, non-greasy and non-buttery texture. It is lightweight and in spite of being swiped several times, you won’t get a heavy feel. Its staying power sadly, is not praiseworthy given its price. It stays for 1-2 hours in case of my lips which are not dry. With heavy meals, retouch is tacit.

Even though it looks pink, yet it is absolutely colourless. No matter how many times you swipe it, it just doesn’t throw any colour. That’s’ a major put-off for me for I think those with slightly/highly pigmented lips won’t be able to use it. Its moisturising power isn’t commendable. I don’t find it hydrating my lips deeply. So, for those with chapped lips, again it is of limited use.

Despite using it for a month, I didn’t notice any noteworthy result in the condition of lips. A bad investment? Yes, absolutely.

GOOD-

  • Sturdy packaging. The balm never gets stuck in the tube despite regular use (exceptions may exist).
  • Mild and pleasant aroma

BAD-

  • Highly expensive for a lip balm
  • Disappointing staying power for the price paid
  • Almost zero tint. It won’t cover pigmentation hence, of less use to those with dark lips or even slight pigmentation.
  • Does not hydrate lips intensely
  • Availability is an issue. It isn’t still easy to spot in neighbouring markets.
  • Hasn’t impacted the condition of my lips in any noticeable way despite a month of usage.
  • Ingredients’ list has not been furnished.

RATING- 1/5

Obviously do not recommend and not buying it again.

Editor’s Note: Whoa, I have heard such mixed reviews. Some of the Burt’s Bees lip balms are pretty amazing. I have one which is pretty good. Also I did not find this Regenerant one on their website, but only the basic moisturizing Pomegranate one, so this one is discontinued now I believe.

Have you tried this Burt’s Bees Replenishing Regenerant Pomegranate Lip Balm yet?

April 2016 Fab Bag Review, Unboxing

April 2016 Fab Bag Review, Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got my April Fab Bag today, there was some address goof up, but thanks to my mom, I got it on time.

This month’s theme is ‘It’s A Spring Thing‘. I absolutely loved the pink textured bag, the quality is nice too.

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

Let’s see the products:

  • Catrice Longlasting Lip Pencil in 020 Hey Macadamia Ahey (Full size Rs.300/-)
  • O3+ Skin Whitening Mask- 10ml (Rs.775/- for 50g)
  • Soultree Aloe & Rose Water Cleansing Milk – 30ml (Rs,295/- for 120ml)
  • Rene Furterer Curbicia Lightness Regulating Shampoo- 15ml (Rs.1320/- for 150ml)
  • Style Fiesta Earrings- Rs.499/-
  • Freshlook 1 Day Color Lens – Grey (1 pair) (Rs.900 for a pair of 5)

There was an option to select a full sized makeup product for this month’s bag and since I already had most of the stuff, I went for this Catrice Cosmetics Lip Pencil in Hey Macadamia Ahey.

There are 6 products in this month’s bag which is pretty good. I love the Catrice Lip pencil and the earrings. Also I haven’t worn colored lenses post I got my lasik done, so would definitely be trying these once in one of the makeup looks in the future.

Not very happy about the samples except the Soultree one, but the rest of the products makeup for it.

 

Freshlook Grey Lenses

The earrings, lip pencil and one pair of colored lenses totally make the bag worth the money, rest can be counted free 🙂 I do like this month’s bag and recommend it, unless you don’t wear lenses and don’t like the accessory. I am not sure which accessory is being sent to whom, so that depends on your luck 😀

Overall, a thumbs up from me.

What did you get in your April 2016 Fab Bag? Do let me know in the comments below.

Top 5 Natural DIY Hair Conditioning Treatments

Top 5 Natural DIY Hair Conditioning Treatments

By Somreeta

The dry and cold weather during the winter months tend to strip your hair of moisture. As a result, your tresses look dull, frizzy, and lifeless. Dry hair is more prone to breakage and develops split ends. Hence, it is important to nourish and condition your hair. The right kind of conditioning treatments during the winters would help to lock in moisture content in the hair shafts, thereby making your hair soft and manageable. Check out the top 5 natural hair conditioning treatments that are not only simple but also effective.

1. BANANA NOURISHING HAIR TREATMENT: Put a ripe banana, 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of honey in a blender. Blend well and apply this rich concoction on your hair shafts. Olive oil is one of the best known natural moisturizers while honey is a natural humectant. Banana helps minimize contraction while nourishing your hair thoroughly. After 30 minutes, wash it off. Be patient while washing, as banana tends to stick to your hair. Do it once a week for best results.

2. WHOLESOME EGG TREATMENT: Whisk an egg, 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise and a cup of plain yogurt in a bowl and apply the mixture liberally on your hair strands. The natural proteins and vitamins present in egg works wonders in strengthening the hair follicles and bringing about significant reduction in dryness. Yogurt makes hair soft while mayonnaise moisturises your hair. Wait for 45 minutes post application and rinse thoroughly with trepid water and shampoo. This homemade hair treatment can be done twice every week.

3. AVOCADO PROTEIN HAIR TREATMENT: Avocado is a rich storehouse of natural proteins and oils. Mash an avocado and add 5 to 6 drops of peppermint oil. Shampoo your hair, squeeze the water out and apply this mask. Wait for about 20 minutes and rinse well. Hair feels soft, smooth and hydrated.

4. CLASSIC MILK AND HONEY TREATMENT: It is pretty easy to prepare this classic hair mask. Mix two tablespoons of honey to a cup of whole milk and apply this natural hair potion along the length of your hair. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and rinse well. This mask strengthens your hair, moisturises it and rejuvenates dry hair. Do this treatment twice every week to see amazing results.

5. HOT OIL TREATMENT: The homemade hot oil treatment has stood the test of time. Warm up any natural oil of your choice and massage your hair and scalp well. You could use olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil. You may even love to blend two oils in equal amounts and then, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for extra benefits. Follow up with turban therapy and then shampoo. Hair feels soft, moisturized and well-nourished.

Isn’t t easy to attain gorgeous locks just by following a few homemade hair care treatments? Opt for these DIY conditioners and get beautiful and nourished hair, naturally!

Editor’s Note: I so agree with Hot Oil one. I am going to try a few of these for sure, especially milk and honey 🙂 Nice post Somreeta

P.S: Images from Google

Do you follow these at home DIY’s for Deep Conditioning your hair?

Layer’r Wottagirl Secret Crush Body Splash Review

Layer’r Wottagirl Secret Crush Body Splash Review

By Pallavi

Hello NLM Beauties,

Since summer is round the corner, i thought of coming up with something summery. Well, i just love summers. Winters are not my best friend because you have to wear so many clothes in summers and you have to stay all day inside. Winters are quite boring and short. Whereas in summers you get the complete day to yourself. Anyways, let’s not drift away from the topic of summer essentials. Since all the seasons have some or the other staples. So, what’s your staple in summers? Well, for me sunscreen. But i have heard that many people treat perfumes or do as their staple in summer. Well, i am not a perfume girl and so i use perfume too less. But i have heard half of the world going gaga over this perfume. So, i thought of let’s try it out. And thus here follows my review.

Price : Rs. 195 for 135 ml. (BUY HERE)

Directions to use : Press the nozzle at the top and the splash will dispense out of the hole. Now, spray it on your underarms , handkerchiefs and any other place you like.

Ingredients : Ethyl alcohol (extra neutral alcohol), diethyl phthalate, aqua perfume, PEG 40, propylene glycol, ethylhexyl methocinnamate,  ethylhexyl salicilate, BHT , triclosan, CI 45430

What it claims :
Layerr brings you Wottagirl fragrant body splashes; fragrances that will leave you feeling fresh and smelling beautiful.A seductive fusion of ripe oranges and lemons, enveloped in the classic floral sweetness of jasmine.

My experience with Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash

Firstly, let’s talk about the packaging. it comes in really fancy and classy packaging. it is a big glass bottle which is transparent and has attractive designs going on in the body. the product name and other details are on the bottle. the bottle similar to other perfumes has a nozzle like opening which needs to be pressed a bit to bring the perfume out.

The perfume is gaseous in nature which is of course transparent. You cannot see it but just smell it. i remember Layer’r Wottagirl launched some more scents this time. All were quite distinct from one another and yet so good. This one is more like a feminine one and is very classy. It is not at all a troubling smell and stays on for quite long.

Good about Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash

Easy availability
Affordable price
Wide range of choices
Classy packaging
Not irritating on skin
Smells is not bothersome
Lasts entire day

Bad about Layer’r Wottagirl Secret crush Body Splash

Nothing for me

Rating – 5/5

Editor’s Note: Sounds pretty good, I have to try this. Nice Review Pallavi 🙂

Have you tried Layer’r Wottagirl Body Splash before? Any favourites?

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash Review

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash Review

By Archana

Today, I will be reviewing the second product that I received from Biotique. If you had already read my review of ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub’ and ‘Biotique Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion‘, you would by know what a wonderful product it is and how much am loving it. So I had high expectations from this ‘Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash’ as well. Read on to know how it fares.

Products claims: Prevents dark spots

Ingredients: Margosa Leaf Ext 4.0%, Wintercherry Root Ext 2.0%, Moong Seed Ext 3.0%, Honey 1.5%, Coconut oil 2.0%, Ritha Fruit Ext 15.0%, Purified Water Q.S.

Directions to use: Gently massage over wet face & neck with fingertips, lather & rinse, morning and evening.

Packaging:
The face wash comes in a simple white plastic tube with a green flip-open cap. The cap shuts tightly and can be carried around without fear of leakage.

Texture and fragrance:
It is a white color, cream based face wash with a runny consistency. It has a strong herbal fragrance which I don’t like much.

My experience:
This is a cream-based face wash, so it would be more suitable for dry skin people. It lathers well and cleanses the skin effectively. On washing off, it tends to leave a thin filmy residue. This might be useful for dry skin people as it will prevent the skin from becoming stretchy by acting like a layer of moisture. But for combination skin people like me, I feel that, it makes the skin become oily and shiny after some time. Also, I feel the cleansing effect is not sufficient when I travel a lot outside in pollution. But it is a mild and gentle cleanser to be used when you are spending more time indoors. It doesn’t cause any irritations and can be used by even sensitive skin people. Coming to its claims of preventing dark spots, I haven’t really noticed any difference in that. Also, I see the ingredients list contain coconut oil, so acne-prone skin people should skip it.

Pros:
* Mild and gentle cleanser.
* Doesn’t dry out skin.
* Contains goodness of ayurvedic ingredients like neem, wintercherry root, moong seed, etc.
* Suitable for sensitive skin also.
* Very affordable.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.

Cons:
* Not suitable for oily, combination skin types.
* Doesn’t deep cleanse.
* Strong fragrance.
* Dark spot prevention claims are not true.

Price and quantity: Rs.60 for 50ml.

Rating: 3.8/5

Verdict: Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash is a very affordable, mild and gentle cleanser for dry and sensitive skin people. It contains the goodness of many ayurvedic ingredients and is organic and preservative-free. I would recommend dry skin people or those who spend most time indoors and looking for a gentle cleanser to give this a try, but others can skip it.

Editor’s Note: Sounds Ok. I prefer gel based face washes for my combination skin. I don’t like cream based ones that lather a lot. Nicely reviewed 🙂

Have you tried the Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Face Wash?

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion Review

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion Review

By Archana

Today, I will be reviewing the last product in the ‘Flawless Skin Regimen’ from Biotique. I have already reviewed the scrub from this range ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub‘. Today’s review is their moisturiser ‘Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion’ which is the last step in the routine.

Products claims:
Nectar is the sweet fluid that flowering plants produce each day, used to sustain ageless beauty from the beginning of time. This lightening and nourishing lotion is blended with pure honey, wheatgerm and seaweed. It sinks into skin to replace natural oils and replenish lost moisture for a noticeably fresher, fairer complexion.

Ingredients:
Baheda (Terminalia Belerica), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum), Madhu (Honey Mel), Ankurit gehun (Triticum valgare), Kusumbhi (Carthamus tinctorious), Vach (Acorus calamus), Lotion Q.S.

Directions to use:
Apply evenly over cleansed face and neck, morning and evening. Wear alone or under makeup.

Packaging:
The lotion comes in a sleek white plastic bottle with a green screw cap. Earlier the bottle used to have a wide mouth which dispenses lot of product leading to wastage. Now they have revamped the packaging and given a small hole for dispensing. But still I think, a flip-open cap would have been lot easier and convenient than a screw cap, for a lotion. The bottle is housed in an outer carton which has all the details.

Texture and fragrance:
It is a white color lotion with a medium consistency, neither too thick nor too runny. It has a herbal fragrance which is little strong, but not as strong as the face wash. The fragrance fades after sometime of applying.

My experience:
This is actually a face lotion as I read from the directions of use. But I found it too heavy for my face as makes it greasy. So I have been using it as a body lotion every night. For day time use, I still feel its greasy and heavy as a body lotion too, as now summers have started and its very hot and humid. Also, this doesn’t have SPF, so I need to use separate sunscreen lotion again. But I find it perfect for night time use as I need something more nourishing then. It deeply moisturizes skin and makes it soft and smooth. If you have very dry skin, then you can use it as a face lotion as well. Especially in winters, this will provide intense nourishment and help repair dry skin. Regarding its lightening claims, using it along with the Tan Removal Scrub regularly can help improve the skin complexion, due to the goodness of various ayurvedic ingredients. One thing that I noticed though was the complete ingredients list is not mentioned. Apart from the ayurvedic ingredients, it is just mentioned as Lotion Base – Q.S. I wish herbal and organic brands come clean with the full ingredients list. As a consumer, we should be able to know what we are putting on our skin, right?

Pros:
* Excellent moisturiser for dry skin.
* Nourishes deeply and repairs skin.
* Makes skin soft and smooth.
* Contains goodness of various ayurvedic ingredients which help improve complexion.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.

Cons:
* Little strong fragrance.
* No SPF.
* Packaging could have been better with a flip-open cap.

Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 120ml.

Rating: 4/5

Verdict: Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion provides deep moisturization and nourishment and makes skin smooth and soft. Dry skin people can use it on face too. But others can use it as a body lotion. It might feel heavy to be used in daytime in summers, but its perfect as a night lotion and during winters, it can be used even in daytime. Overall, the ‘Flawless Skin Regimen’ from Biotique containing 3 products – face wash, scrub and lotion is worth a try, considering its affordable prices and also that they are organic and preservative free.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely loved using Morning Nectar in winters and during night time. As my skin is combination and this lotion is quite hydrating, I skip it in summers. But it’s a boon in winters, no dryness or patchiness at all.

Have you tried Biotique Morning Nectar Lotion yet?

Parachute Advansed #KhulkekheloHoli Contest – 5 winners

Parachute Advansed #KhulkekheloHoli Contest – 5 winners

Hi guys,

Holi is coming up and I have so many good childhood memories attached with this festival. From prepping up previous day with balloons and pichkaris and finding all amazing colors to waking up early at 6-7 am and enjoying it with friends and family untill afternoon. It was so much fun! While the previous two years, I had my friends come over and we did have some fun with colours. But nothing beats the childhood fun, right.

This video totally refreshed my Holi memories.

#KhulkeKheloHoliYe Rang Hai Gaadhe Rishton Ke,
Inhe Pheeka mat padne do.

Iss baar, Holi Khul Ke Khelo.
#KhulKeKheloHoli

Posted by Parachute Advansed on Monday, 14 March 2016

Holi is all about love, joy, family time, togetherness and applying colours. Khul ke khelo Holi doesn’t mean we waste water, water conservation is an important issue currently and we should always try our best to not waste water. Holi can be played with colors and is equally fun!

I have a contest for Holi for you guys 🙂 I have teamed up with Parachute Advansed Hair Oil where we will be giving away 5 Holi hampers to 5 of you.

All you have to do it share the above video on facebook, link HERE and tell us about your favourite childhood Holi memory in the comments below. That’s it. Just make sure to tag my page when you share the video on facebook so that I can verify the entry.

The contest starts right now and ends on Sunday 20th March, the winners will be announced on 20th itself, so that the winners can receive the hampers before Holi. It is only open to residents of India.

Good Luck guys and Happy Holi 🙂

Update: The winners are:

Shilpa Bindlish

Neha Thagela

Mansi Tokla

Shweta

Divya Gattani

Also hubby has picked winners this time for an unbiased third person view 🙂 Congrats winners! Please mail me at bhumika_thakkar (@)yahoo.co.uk with your complete mailing address and number soon, will have to send it ahead tom afternoon so that the hampers reach before Holi. If I do not get the details by 1pm tom, I will need to pick another winner.

Thanks a lot for the participation 🙂

The Body Shop Japanese Camellia Cream, French Lavender Massage Oil Review

The Body Shop Japanese Camellia Cream, French Lavender Massage Oil Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing two products from The Body Shop’s new Spa Of The World Range. The French Lavender Massage Oil I have been using since quite some time now and the Japanese Camellia Cream I have been using since about 2 weeks.

Both of these products are from the Relaxing Ritual which has 3 more products,a total of 5, i.e. African Ximenia Scrub, Himalayan Charcoal Body Clay and Egyptian Milk & Honey Bath. And there are two other rituals i.e. Revitalizing and Blissful which have different body massage oils and scrubs and 3 products each in that range.

Starting with the Camellia Cream,

What the Company claims: Camellia oil has been used by Japanese women since the 8th century to gently soften and moisturise skin. The exquisite scent of this pure and elegant flower allows mind and body to reconnect with a moment of profound peace. Use this rich body cream with a light, velvety texture as part of our relaxing ritual when you’re in need of a fast-track to tranquillity.

– Velvet moisture body cream
– Makes skin feel beautifully hydrated and delicately scented
– Relaxes body and mind

How to use: Smooth on from décolletage to toes until fully absorbed. Expert tip: “Before applying Spa of the World™ Japanese Camellia Cream, warm hands under running water, take a bit of the cream and massage your hands together to warm the cream. Japanese Camellia Cream is ideal to use every day as a body moisturiser.”

MRP: Rs.2995/- for 350ml

Ingredients:

When I saw the tub, I was surprised, coz it’s huge! Super huge! But it’s made of plastic and quite light weight, also there is a thin transparent layer in between so it looks bigger than it actually is. Entire Spa of the World range come in this brown and black packaging. And all bottles and tubs are plastic, more convenient for oils as the bottles may break easily.

I don’t generally like body butters unless they are quite light weight like the Fuji Green Tea one was. This looked quite rich to me when I first opened the tub and saw it. And as soon as I dipped my finger in it to get the product, I was surprised! This is nothing like a body butter, not at all thick. It’s exactly like whipped cream or mousse. Soft, airy and fluffy. I absolutely loved the texture and as soon as I apply it on the body, it immediately melts in contact with skin and blends super easily. The best part is gets absorbed so quickly that by the time you finish using it all over your body, more than half of it is already absorbed. It feels super light and even in the Mumbai summers, it does not feel sticky or greasy at all.

I love the soft, refreshing smell. I am not sure how Camellia flowers smell but it does have a soft hint of floral. I also like the other ingredients i.e. mango seed oil and shea butter apart from the camellia seed oil.

Skin stays moisturized whole day and no need to re-apply or apply anything else. If you have normal to oily skin or live in humid city, I will definitely suggest getting this one. And if you have dry skin or have harsh winters, the Hawaiian Kukui Cream would work better for you.

It is definitely very pricey but this tub of 350ml will surely last me ages! Not a lot of product comes out when you try to scoop it out since it slips, but then a little goes a long way with this cream, so you don’t even need like huge dollops every time.

And now coming to the French Lavender Oil,

What the Company claims: In the 14th century, King Charles VI of France demanded pillows filled with lavender to soothe him to sleep. Lavender essential oil has a natural relaxing scent which promotes a sense of well-being. Use this calming massage oil as part of our relaxing ritual when you’re in need of a fast-track to tranquillity.

– Relaxing massage oil.
– Soothes body and mind
– With lavender from the south of France.

How to use: Focusing on tense areas, massage onto skin to help relax body and mind. Try using with the Spa of the World™ Thai Wooden Massager to enhance the experience. Expert tip: “Bring this product when you travel, it can work as a body moisturiser and the lavender scent will help you relax before you sleep.”

MRP: Rs.1695/- for 170ml

Ingredients:

The body massage oils come in this small round bottles with a black cap. The dispensing hole is not too huge nor too tiny and dispenses the perfect quantity of oil required at one go.

I absolutely love lavender and if I have to ever pick only one scent for ever, I will go with lavender. Also lavender oil is very relaxing and calming and will also solve insomnia issue. I can’t generally sleep on time, I would lying on my bed for hours but can never sleep early. That’s when I make sure I use this oil.

It has a base of sweet almond oil and sesame oil with jojoba, lavender and few other essential oils combined. I love sweet almond and sesame oils as base coz they are very light and get absorbed quickly. Where as olive or coconut are quite on the heavy side.

Since the ingredients are all oils, you can even use this on your face i.e. if you use oils on your face. I do and sometimes just blend the leftover on my face post using it on the body.

I use it post shower or before sleeping or anytime I feel like. Absolutely love the relaxing lavender scent and how light weight the oil is. The two other massage oils in the Spa of the World Range are Tahitian Orchid and Thai Lemongrass. Where as the Tahitan Orchid is blended with ylang ylang and patchouli and would be quite strong, Thai Lemongrass one is good for body massages, if you get them done at home. But for normal day to day use, if I have to suggest you one, I would say the French Lavender one.

Even the oils are on the little pricier side, but then again it’s 170ml than usual 100ml. I would have loved if The Body Shop had come with smaller variants and pricing too. And that would have been travel friendly versions too, coz these definitely aren’t.

Overall I love both the products and they are absolutely amazing, definitely on the pricey side, but quality super! No doubts about that, the Spa Of The World range is out in the stores now and also available online on The Body Shop India website.

What do you think of The Body Shop Spa Of The World Range? Any favourites?

Top 10 Best Toners For All Skin Types In India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Best Toners For All Skin Types In India, Prices, Buy Online

By Ishleen

Hello munchkins!

I realise how long it has been since I last wrote for you but I am back girlies, and back with a bang! No, just kidding! I am back with a top 10 post for you as of now!

*snarls and giggles in the background*

So all of us have heard the importance of a good CTM routine in our lives, and I partake that all of us know why cleansing, toning and moisturising is so necessary! And most probably than not most of us have somewhat narrowed down our moisturiser and cleanser choices but toners is one thing people stay the most confused about! Thus I am here to sort out your toner dilemma and bring in front of you the best toners available in the Indian market, and yes, I have something for all skin types!

For Oily-Acne Prone Skin

1. Lotus Herbals Basil Tone Cucumber and basil clarifying and balancing toner- INR 265 (BUY HERE for 199)

I don’t really like Lotus toners much, I feel they are very heavy on the skin and weigh it down; and that is the alst thing a toner should be doing! No? But this Lotus herbals basil tone Cucumber toner is such a wow product, especially for oily skin! Yes, it tones the skin well but also takes away even the last most trace of oil and dirt and makes the skin feel very supple!

2. Fab India Tea Tree Skin Toner – INR 135 (On FabIndia site or Nykaa)

This is one my most favourite budget toners available in the Indian market! And why shouldn’t it be, it is cost effective, keeps my sebyum production in check and also helps in keeping the acne at bay as much as is possible! Ten on ten for this baby!

3. The Body Shop Tea tree Skin Clearing Toner – INR 760 (BUY HERE)

I know how the body shop products are a bit expensive for some of us but that does not mean that sometimes we can take the leap and just splurge on something which is indeed very good for our skin! I mean if you are genuinely struggling with extremely oily and highly acne prone skin, just go get it man! Period!

4. Lush Tea Tree Water – INR 500 (approx)

One more such splurge worthy product is this gorgeous little bottle of tea tree toner from the house of lush! Lush cosmetics are famous worldwide for curating the best of the best skincare products, and this toner is no less. Effectively removes any grime or oil traces from the skin, tones it and makes the skin feel smooth and firm! (Lush is not available in India currently though)

For Combination skin

5. Fab India Tulsi Toner – INR 180

Fab India makes some of the finest toners, and despite being oily skinned I have used this toner personally, and also tried it on my combination skinned friend and it suited both of us wonderfully! Though her skin felt smoother than mine hence the classification under the combination skin category! The toner is 100% alcohol free and does not completely dry the skin up! It leaves the skin hydrated but not greasy and is perfect for combination-oily skin types.

6. Himalaya Refreshing and Clarifying Toner – INR 80 (BUY HERE)

We people tend to ignore our entrusted Indian brand Himalaya thinking that the international brands make much better products. But this isn’t true in the case of himalaya’s refreshing and cleansing toner. It tones the skin, but does not leave it stretchy or dry and its natural extracts actually make it feel refreshing on the skin.

For Dry Skin

7. The Body Shop Aloe Vera Calming Toner – INR 595 (for 200 ml)

We all know how much of a trusted brand TBS is, and this aloe vera calming toner is the perfect bet for all your dry skin woes! It is alcohol free, does not strip the skin off any moisture and is indeed very soothing and relaxing for the skin!

8. Neutrogena Alcohol Free Toner – INR 1400 (for 250 ml) (BUY HERE for 1032)

I love neutrogena’s skincare products and by first hand experience I can tell how effective this little bad boy has been on my sister’s flaky dry skin! As the name says it is completely alcohol free, so it does not strip the skin off its natural oils and in return keeps it luxuriantly smooth!

9. Fab India Lavender Skin Toner – INR 180

This transparent toner smells divine, and also works like a miracle on dry skin! But to be honest, it was the mild lavender fragrance which prompted me to inculcate this baby in the list! Not that it does not work well for dry skin, coz it sure does! And the lavender extracts also help the skin to remain moisturised and not dried out.

10. The Body Shop Vitamin E Hydrating Toner – INR 890 (for 200 ml) (BUY HERE)

Vitamin E is a boon for dry skin beauties and TBS is a saviour for incorporating our most required nutrients in our toners so that we do not have to layer up on skincare products! The toner smoothens up the skin, soothes, relaxes and also hydrates the skin very effectively! And the travel size packaging is also really cheap, so you can always try that one first!

So which one of these is your favourite?