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September 2016 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing, Indian Makeup and Beauty Blog, Subscription Box

September 2016 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

September 2016 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got my September My Envy Box just now. This month’s theme is ‘Travel’ and I absolutely love the suitcase shaped box! Definitely keeping this box 😀 It looks so cute, I love the designs each month.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Products I got:

  • Dermalogica Oil Free Matte sachet: Rs 3825 for 50ml
  • Kronokare City Detox Face Wash 30ml deluxe sample: Rs 395 for 100ml
  • TRUUTH Beauty Formula Tablets: Rs 400 for 30 pills
  • Ma Earth Botanicals Rose Facial Scrub 40g Deluxe Sample: Rs 875 for 125g
  • C.A.L Detail Me Mascara: Rs. 450 for 12ml
  • C.A.L. Muah Collection Lip Gloss: Rs 450 for 10ml

Unfortunately my Kronokare face wash leaked inside the box, half of the face wash smeared all over the box. I cleaned the box and let it dry, I hope it doesn’t feel soapy or sticky.

The Kronokare City Detox face wash has grapefruit oil and lavender oil. It smells really good, looking forward to try this.

Another product that impressed me is the Ma Earth Botanicals Rose Scrub, it’s in dry form with crushed rose petals in it. Smells absolutely amazing, I am most excited to try this out.

I got two full sized makeup products from C.A.L. I have never heard of this brand, so I searched a bit. CAL Cosmetics LA is a new Indian brand and have a range of face, eyes and lip products. I got the lip gloss in the shade ‘Spicy’ from their Muah Collection, not sure if it’s High Gloss or Stay On, but considering how pigmented and staining it is, I believe it is from Stay On Range. I love the bright coral colour and the staying power is pretty good for a gloss, it’s more like those Maybelline Velvet Matte Lip Colours.

Also got the CAL Detail Me Mascara. I quite like the gold packaging, the outer boxes for both the products were a little rusty. I am not sure why.

The TRUUTH Beauty Formula pack of 30 tablets is a new ‘supplements’ introduction in My Envy Box. It has Biotin, Collagen and claims to be good for hair, nails and skin. Since this has red mark, I am not sure if I will have these as I am a pure vegetarian. I wish they had included something with green mark which everyone can have, or confirmed before sending this or given an option.

And finally Dermalogica Matte Sunscreen small sachet sample, I don’t like sachets so don’t have anything much to say about this. Dermalogica always has super tiny one time use samples. If My Envy Box includes Dermalogica samples, they should include at least 4-5 of these.

Also this month My Envy Jewellery Box has Simran Chhabra designs, you can get extra 10% off using ‘SIMJB10’ and get the box at Rs.2205/-

Overall I quite like the Ma Botanicals Rose Scrub and looking forward to try both of the CAL products. In terms of value for money, this month’s box is definitely total value for money! You get 3 full sized and 2 deluxe sixed samples worth Rs.1700! Recommended

What did you get in your September My Envy Box?

Top 15 New Bridal Mehendi Designs for Hands

Top 15 New Bridal Mehendi Designs for Hands

Hi guys,

If you know I had my ‘Mumbai Bridal Diaries’ series covering my engagement and wedding and all posts related to that, see HERE. I am kick starting the Bridal Series again as the wedding season is approaching and what better than starting with mehendi designs.

Sanchita will take from here..

Hello everyone,

Bridal season is going to start soon and I am sure the would-be brides are busy planning everything. Internet, now-a- days, is flooded with every bridal need – from hair style, makeup artists to lehengas. But with so many choice it becomes very difficult to choose the one for your D-Day. Therefore, we thought of bringing you the Bridal Diaries where we would short listed the best of the best for everything a bride needs. This time we came up with the best bridal mehendi designs for hands.

No matter which part of India you belong to, mehendi is a must have thing for the brides except for few traditions. Mehendi has been a part of marriages since time immemorial and there is a reason why the bride applied mehendi or henna on her hand. Firstly, weddings are stressful and tiring and applying henna, which is a very powerful medicinal herb, helps to cure the headache.

It cools the body and keeps the nerves from becoming tense. This is the reason why mehndi is applied on the hands and feet, which house nerve endings in the body. It is also antiseptic and protect from viral diseases. Further, improves blood circulation in the body and improves general health.

It is also considered to be a sign of good luck and festive occasion. Traditionally, it says that mehendi has a rich smell that act as a powerful aphrodisiac and boosts the romance in the initial days of wedding. It is better to use the pure and herbal mehendi or henna which is derived from plants to be used on hands. Chemical ones often causes irritation and contains toxic chemicals in it. The mehendi should be dark burgundy, brown or coffee in color, especially which are natural.

Let us see the wonderful mehendi designs for hands.

1. Peacock designs are the common favorite for everyone when it comes to bridal designs. It has a very feminine and gracious look and widely used in various ways.

2. This is another full hand peacock design but the designs are extremely elaborate. It has several floral and leaf patterns in between which would look flattering for the wedding.

3. A rich floral design which is extremely easy to translate. When the mehendi stains the skin with its deep brown or coffee color, the flower seems to almost come alive in all its glory.

4. An elegant peacock mehendi design with floral patterns. The combination is beautiful.

5. Circular motifs are wonderful and has an aesthetic appeal to it. They look beautiful and well decorative. This is a wonderful design who wants simple and elegant look.

6. A typical bride-groom design. What can be better than this for a wedding?

7. A fine art floral design with semicircular pattern. It has a very soothing touch to it.

8. A full hand floral design for the brides.

9,10,11,12 – These are all the peacock designs combined with the floral and Arabic pattern. All the designs are ideal for weddings.

13. A diamond shaped elaborative floral designs for full hand.

14, 15. The floral and leaf designs combination tiny paisleys are woven together to create a delicate design pattern, the result is a very alluring and looks amazing.

Tips to make mehendi last longer on hands –

  • Keep the mehendi on the hands for a minimum of 8-9hours. It is best if you can keep it for a whole night, around 12hrs of so.
  • Make sure the hands are dry when you are applying the henna or mehendi.
  • Make a juice of lemon and sugar syrup or powdered sugar. The mixture will be sticky but this will give a glorious color to the hands and shine as well.
  • You can also warm the hands under a light or heated box.
  • Use mustard oil to remove the scrubbing particles when you are going to remove it. Take few drops on the hands and rub together to remove.
  • Do not use water for a few hours after taking off the mehendi particles from hand. This will make the color even richer and will last longer on hands.

Editor’s Note: These are some beautiful designs Sanchita, loved the compilation! I loved the no.6 Bride Groom and last no. 15 especially.

Which is your favourite?

7 Exercises To Get Those Perfectly Toned Legs

7 Exercises To Get Those Perfectly Toned Legs

By Nidhal

Whatever be the attire, if you have got a pair of sculpted and toned legs to flaunt, it’s going to be a much-needed icing on the cake. When it comes to Western wear particularly those that reveal one’s legs such as- shirt dresses, skirts, hot pants, capris or even an itsy-bitsy two-piece, a pair of toned legs is a sight to behold. Given the paucity of time at hand, here is a rundown on some easy exercises that you can incorporate in your life to leave you with a pair of absolutely enviable toned legs.

Awaken the fitness freak in you!

1. SQUATS- You would have probably heard that squats are the key to tighter and toned butts. They are. What’s lesser known is that squats also leave you with absolutely drool-worthy legs that you just can’t stop looking at with sheep’s eyes. Squats assist in building muscles (including one’s quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves). Simply stand with your feet apart, roughly as much as the distance between both your shoulders. Stand straight- this is the MOST important point. If done erroneously, it will undermine your entire body posture. Bend over your knees and make a 90 degrees angle. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 10 times. Increase the frequency with experience and ease.

2. SKATER LUNGE- To do this exercise, you need to have a considerable hold on your body that is, balance. Don’t fret, you don’t need to be an expert, just a little control on your posture. How to do this? Cross your right leg behind your left leg as you bend your left knee into a half-squat position. Extend your left arm out to the side, and swing your right arm across your hips. Hop a few feet directly to the right, switching the position of your legs and arms. Done? Great, that’s one rep. Continue hopping from side to side till you reach 10 reps. Increase the frequency overtime.

3. LEG LIFTS- This one’s a cakewalk! Simply lie flat on your back with your legs stretched out in front of you. Now, bend your knees, straighten your legs and straighten your legs until your feet are pointed at the ceiling. Hold for 30 seconds and that’s it. One rep is completed! Didn’t I tell you it was a piece of cake? Increase the frequency as you get accustomed to it.

4. HIP BRIDGE- The bridge (also known as the hip raise) is an excellent exercise for strengthening the back of the legs as well as the core. Please do not do this you have back injuries. To those who don’t, doing this is a cakewalk. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Then, raise your hips in such a way that your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Pause and then slowly lower your body back to the floor. That’s it! You have aced one rep.

5. STANDING FORWARD BEND/UTTANASANA- Here comes an asana from a centuries-long science of healing and well-being- Yoga that would leave you with sculpted legs in no time. If you have any back injuries, please do not give it a shot. Uttanasana looks arduous yet once developed a hang of, it becomes a cakewalk. All you need to do is keep your knees straight, place your fingertips or palms on the floor beside your feet, or touch the back of your ankles with your palms. Hold the pose for 30 seconds and revert to the original posture.

6. WARRIOR POSE 3/VIRBHADRAASANA – Another Yoga asana to your rescue, Virbhadrasana helps one battle cellulite. Simply lift your left leg backwards as you inhale, extend your hands, ensure that your back is straight and once your left leg and hands are completely horizontal, exhale. That’s all, wasn’t it cushy?

7. LOW LUNGE- This exercise not only works on one’s legs but also aligns the back incredibly. All that needs to be done is extend one’s leg (say-left) backwards while keeping the other one (right)bent. Then, clasp your hands together and stretch upwards as much as you can.

Image Source: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7

Editor’s Note: That’s a much needed post Nidhal, thanks for this.

Do you follow these exercises?

Every child deserves to stay traditionally stylish!

Every child deserves to stay traditionally stylish!

Kids’ fashion world has started to receive its deserved attention in the last few years with the original and experimental brands amplifying their collections of attractive quirky designs for kidswear. You have to stay updated with the latest trends while shopping for your little ones. Ensuring that the fabric is soft with simple yet zany prints, made with clean lines and combination of vivid colors is the primary requirement. Secondly, make sure that you buy keeping the occasion in mind. If you follow trends, then why not follow themes as well?

Casuals like polo t-shirts, dungarees, skirts, crop tops, and denims are and will always be in vogue. But the charm of ethnic wear for kids is exquisite and unbeatable. On an occasion like wedding, engagement ceremony, cocktail party or any festive day, ethnic dresses look perfect on kids. The traditional edge makes them look even cuter and super adorable. Take up the opportunity to dress your kids properly in Indian dresses that radiate cultural vibes.

So what’s the challenge? It’s finding the ideal ethnic attire that’s classy as well as comfortable for your kid. It’s a fact that shopping for grown-ups is a lot easier than buying something for your kid. Everyone wants a dress that has good design along with superior quality, and looks stylish at the same time. Searching and buying fabric to get stitched at a boutique is a tedious and time taking task.

That is where shopping solutions like Kidology come in, packed with an exciting collection of the finest ethnic wear for kids, magnificently designed by talented designers. From Kids wedding dresses to casual attires, you have got it all under one huge umbrella- Kidology!

So, no need of exhausting yourself by shuffling from store to store for the right dress. Simply sit in your comfortable zone at home and browse through the different categories of the most exclusive collection of kids clothing online in India that kidology has to offer.

Under the “Festival Clothing” section you can browse through beautiful anarkali suits, lehengas, patiala suits, lacha sets, and dhoti sets for girls. If your search doesn’t end there, visit the “Wedding Dresses” section, where you will find more options of Indian dresses for both girls and boys. For your little prince, Kidology offers ikat printed sherwanis, kurta pajamas, printed vests, jodhpuri set amidst everything royal and classy. Color options are endless and each set looks just amazing when donned by your baby boy/girl. Choose the one that fits your needs and it will be on your way after just a few clicks. The entire process will make you realize that online shopping for kids was never this easy. There are a few other qualities that set Kidology apart:

Fabric- From velvet, cotton, chiffon and satin to soft net and sequins, every fabric has been spun to impress. They are skillfully cut, stitched and designed into gorgeous little dresses that are comfortable to wear and excellent to flaunt.

Fashion- All apparels at Kidology are guaranteed to make a style statement. The pretty add-ons like laces, ribbons and flowers made of laces make the dresses look even more modish.

Fit- Loose, oversized or too small dresses look shabby and cause discomfort. The designer dresses available here have the perfect cut and fit. You will find faultless shapes, clean lines, good style, proper shape and flow, and relaxed fits in all the dresses.

Accessories- Complete the dashing look of your kid with accessories from Kidology. You can combine a pair of shoes, bow, hair band or a hat to go with their dresses. These cute little add-ons act like a cherry on the cake.

The finest designer ethnic dresses are available to pack your kid’s wardrobe for the festive season. Shopping for kids is no more a hassle and with Kidology you can ensure your kid is the star attraction at any occasion.

Studiowest Almond & Peach Refreshing Shower Gel Review

Studiowest Almond & Peach Refreshing Shower Gel Review

By Simran

‘Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live’

Studiowest has taken over my world by storm. The Studiowest range of products is made by keeping in mind the Indian skin and the harsh Indian weather. I picked up the product from the Radiance bath & body range of Studiowest.

The Radiance range consists of fruity fragrance products while there is an another completely parallel range called the Indulge range which consists of flowery fragrance products.

Other options in the Radiance range consisting of fruity fragrance are Honey & Strawberry, Aloe Vera & Green Apple.

Claim: The goodness of almond and peach cleanses and hydrates your skin, leaving it soft and supple.

Ingredients:

Price: Rs. 299/- for 300ml

Packaging: The packaging is not anything fancy. It has a flip open cap which makes the products easy to use and doesn’t encourage wastage of the product. The cap is sturdy and easy to use. The product comes in a simple transparent plastic bottle which is sturdy as well.

Consistency: The consistency of the product is not thick as compared to other shower gels. It lathers up quickly, you do not need to use a huge amount of the product. It leaves a beautiful aroma of peach lingering on the skin which is the biggest plus point of the product. Who wouldn’t like to smell like peaches? You need to use a pea size amount to wash your face.

My experience with the product: I solely picked up the product due to the beautiful aroma of the product and since I ran out of my shower gel, i wanted to try a new product.

The products sticks to its claims pretty well. It makes your skin really soft and hydrates it pretty well.

Even though the colour of the product looks peach in the packaging, it comes off as a transparent gel. The product lathers well so you do not need a lot of amount for each use. I usually like to pour a coin size amount on a wet loofah and use the shower gel.

The fragrance of the product has a good staying power even after the shower. I always use a body butter/body lotion after using the product since I have normal to dry skin.

I highly recommend using the Studiowest Peach & Almond body lotion or body butter after using the shower gel to make the fragrance of the product linger all day.

Pros of Studiowest Radiance Almond & Peach Refreshing Shower Gel:

  • Hydrates the skin
  • Huge amount of the product is not required
  • Lathers really well
  • Leaves an aroma of peaches on your skin
  • Good consistency of the product
  • Budget friendly

Cons of  Studiowest Radiance Almond & Peach Refreshing Shower Gel:

  • Some people might find the fragrance of the product too harsh
  • Available only in the Westside stores across the country

Rating: 4/5

Overall: You get a good amount of 300ml for 299 Rs. The bottle will last you for 2-3 months as a lot of product is not required per use since the lathering power of the product is amazing.

The product smells wonderful and is hydrating as well. Yes, you would have to moisturize your skin after the use if you have dry skin.

Editor’s Note: I have tried the Almond & Peach Face Wash from this range. Sounds pretty good.

Have you tried the Studiowest Shower Gels?

Best Face Serums Available In India, Prices, Buy Online

Best Face Serums Available In India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Serum is a very important part of skin care we often miss out. It provides added benefits to the skin and a great way to nourish, replenish and rejuvenate, apart from the regular CTM method. Serums often target the particular needs of the skin like skin brightening or anti-ageing. In fact, it is also treated fights wrinkles, acne and acne scars, age spots, dullness, dryness, improves the overall texture of your skin along with an enrich radiance to keep the skin soft and supple.

Therefore, we have compiled a well elaborated list of 12 best skin serums for oily, combination, dry and ageing skin which is easily available in India.

1. Ponds Gold Radiance Precious Youth Serum – Price 999 INR for 30ml (Buy HERE for 849)

Ponds Gold Radiance serum is one of the most popular face serums available in India. The serum is best suited for oily to combination &/or ageing skin. It helps to get rid of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots and along with a brightening glow and luminosity to the skin. It also aims to tighten the skin and improves the skin’s texture. The serum is infused with real gold micro particles which provide deep nourishment to the tired skin and further increases the rate of cell formation in the skin to make it look younger and fresh. It also evens out the skin tone with regular usage.

2. Lakme Youth Infinity Skin Firming Serum– Price 899 INR for 30ml (More HERE) (Buy HERE for 599)

Lakme Youth Infinity Skin Firming Serum is another budgeted serum best suited for oily skin and also ageing skin. As the name suggest, this serum targets the cell renewal, elasticity as well as the removal of dead cells, bringing forth a natural radiance of the skin. If you suffer from spots, blemishes, patchy skin, and wrinkles, this is the best serum to try for. It has Insta Collagen boosters that helps to tighten the sagging skin, thus improving its elasticity. Regular usage will also remove layers of dullness and enhances the skin tone.

3. Neutrogena Fine Fairness Brightening Serum– Price 699 INR for 30ml (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena Fine Fairness Brightening Serum is a High penetrating serum, extremely lightweight in texture and absorbs into the skin in a jiff. It contains vitamins and antioxidants which helps to revitalize and replenish the skin. Infused with Neutrogena Healthy White Complex which is known to inhibit the production of melanin, it will provide the skin with a healthy glow from within. It also removes dark spots and pigmentation from the skin, owing to the benefits of Retinol and Vitamin C present in it. The product is dermatologically tested, alcohol free as well as oil free and will be the best choice for oily to combination skin.

4. Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate– Price 1950 INR for 15ml (Review HERE) (Buy HERE)

This is one beauty elixir, suitable for every skin type and worth every penny you invest in it. It is 99.8% naturally-derived and paraben-free and aims to regenerate, repair and replenish the skin barrier for younger-looking skin. This serum is meant to be applied at night and you would wake up with an invigorated skin in the morning. This is because the blend of replenishing botanical and essential oils like Primrose Oil, Lavender Essential Oil and Squalene known for their therapeutic, balancing, and antioxidant effects, works with skin’s natural nocturnal activity to dramatically restore skin by morning. Also, the bottle will easy last you for about 3-4 months with regular usage.

5. Kama Ayurveda Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Ayurvedic Night Serum– Price 1890 INR for 12ml (Buy HERE)

A replenishing night serum from the house of Kama Ayurveda, which is one of the best luxury skin care brands in India. The regular usage of this serum provides you with a renewed skin free from acne scars, dryness, dullness, etc. it enhances the texture of the skin, hydrates it adequately without clogging the pores and one of the best anti-ageing serum suitable for ageing and combination skin. A unique blend of 100% Ayurvedic ingredients, it illuminates the skin and the presence of Licorice acts as an antiseptic and brightening agent.

6. Aviance White Intense Radiance Revive Advanced Serum– Price for 1399 INR for 50ml (Buy HERE)

This is the perfect pick for oily skin. The advance formula of this serum penetrates deep into the cells, brightening the skin and making it appear lit from within. It is well endowed with the goodness of chamomile, witch hazel, green tea, aloe vera, mulberry, licorice, vitamins C and B3 and tetra peptides that helps to soothe and even out the skin. You require a very little amount for the face and neck which gives you a visibly radiant and healthy skin with regular usage. Further, it is also enriched with the dual combination of Vitamin C with active peptides, this potent serum promotes fights free radicals and repairs the skin, which leaves skin supple and nourished improving skin tone and texture.

7. L’Oréal Paris Youth Code Youth Booster Serum– Price 1499 INR for 30ml (Buy HERE)

L’Oréal Paris Youth Code Youth Boosting Serum is suitable for normal to combination skin. As the name goes, this particular serum aims to boost the skin from ageing and dullness. It has been formulated with 10X more concentrated in patented Pro-Gen technology that provides you with a radiant youthful glow. You require a very little amount and it gets instantly absorbed into the skin without clogging the pores.

8. Forest Essentials Advanced Soundarya Age Defying Facial Serum with 24k Gold – Price 3395 INR for 25ml (Buy HERE)

This the best serum for ageing skin which suffers from dullness and luminosity. Forest Essentials products are made from 100% organic substances and also comes with a hefty price tag. This particular serum is formulated with anti-ageing herbs and 24 Karat gold bhasma to lighten and brighten the skin tone from the deepest layer of the skin. The Ashwagandha has various anti-oxidant properties, the cow milk increases collagen production while Licorice hydrates and illuminates the skin.

9. Yves Rocher Hydra Vegetal Moisture Boost Serum– Price 1200 INR for 30ml

Yves Rocher Hydra Vegetal Moisture Boost Serum is best suitable for dry skin and available in Nykaa. Dry skin lacks hydration and are prone to dullness and fine lines. This particular product helps to hydrates and replenishes skin as it has been endowed with the goodness of Maple and Blue Agave Saps combined with Botanical Betaine to lock the hydrayion in the skin. it provides a ultra-fresh texture to the skim and the product is completely colorant free, mineral oil free, paraben free

10. Kiehl’s Hydro-Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate – Price 4300 INR for 50ml (Buy HERE)

Kiehl’s Hydro-Plumping Serum is meant for dry skin and aims to hydrate skin’s deepest surface layers with its next generation liquid-to- serum technology. The serum is formulated with a potent complex of 15% plant-based Glycerin and Shiso Leaf Extract. It has been seen that the product magically replenish the skin with moisture and locks the hydration, helps correct the signs of age-related dehydration, plump up the skin to make it looks fresh and revitalized, along with the reduction in the appearance of fine lines & rough texture.

11. The Body Shop Vitamin E moisture Serum – Price 1295 INR for 30ml

The Vitamin E series of TBS is best suitable for normal to dry skin. It comes with a lovely pump dispenser and easy to carry. The product is a concentrated pre-moisturizer treatment for the skin to ensure the enhancement of hydration for the dry skin. The Vitamin E protects the skin from damage while tara bush seed extract works within the skin to boost moisture levels. Thus, the skin is replenished with regular usage but without any trace of greasiness or clogged pores.

12. Aviance Hydra Balance Moisture Infused Advanced Serum – Price 1099 INR for 50ml (Buy HERE)

As the name offers, this is another perfect pick for dry skin. It has been infused with Advanced Serum that helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, replenishing hydration and softening the skin. The goodness extracted from jojoba, almond, kiwi, wheat germ, cucumber, green tea, aloe vera and Vitamin C penetrate deep into the skin to infuse hydration, revealing its inherent luminosity. It also has the benefits of Vitamin C, a selection of peptides and active ingredients that aids in the skin regeneration, restoration and balanced healthiness.

Thus, these are the best 12 face serums for oily, combination, dry and ageing skin which is easily available in India.

Editor’s Note: I would like to add The Body Shop Oils of Life Revitalizing Facial Oil, though it’s an oil, you can use it during the night as a serum and it works amazingly well! Also the new Drops of Light Brightening Serum is very good if you acne scars coz it has red algae and Vitamin C extracts.

I have tried the Kiehl’s MRC and Kama Ayurveda Kumkumadi Tailam and absolutely love those too. Also like The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum-in-Oil.

Which is your favourite face serum?

Sofy Bodyfit Overnight Review

Sofy Bodyfit Overnight Review

Hi guys,

We all go through days or rather nights during our periods, where we wake up with stained clothes or bedsheets at times. I know it may get a little embarrassing and night pads like these help us through those nights.

Claims: SOFY Overnight is the longest napkin in India and has a wider hip guard which covers your panty from the back for extra coverage. So you can sleep peacefully all night long.

  • Wider hip guard
  • Shape maintenance system
  • Double absorbent core

MRP: Rs.155/- for a pack of 10 (Buy HERE)

Sofy is Japan’s no. 1 Sanitary Napkin brand and we have it in India since about 2 years now. I am very glad we do, coz there were just 1-2 sanitary napkin brands available widely in India and one being the most famous, had the largest share in the market. Also is very expensive, and leaves rashes and itchy feeling post periods coz of the plastic layer on top. It was not the most comfortable but then there were hardly any options in gel absorbing category.

Sofy has quite a few different variants available but this Overnight one is absolutely perfect for girls with heavy flow at night time because it is quite wide and long. Its wider hip guard covers the panty from the back and there are no chances of leakage or transfer because of the double absorbent core. The wings keep the pad in place and it doesn’t move.

It is the longest napkin in India. They have this super ad called #SleepingUgly which says Sleeping Beauties belong only in fairytales and in reality we sleep best when we sleep ugly 😀 That is so practical and true, that is the real us.

I love the fact that these are super soft and there is no absolutely no itchiness or rashes during or even after the periods. You can check out more about Sofy on www.sofyclub.com/in

Have you tried the Soft Bodyfit Overnight?

Dabur Active Blood Purifier Review

Dabur Active Blood Purifier Review

By Archana

Hi all,

Today’s review is on a slightly different product, not the regular skincare and haircare stuff. Its a health supplement which helps in giving clear and glowing skin. Dabur is a trusted brand when it comes to health and personal care products. And this new product by them claims for “a pimple free skin with natural glow” in just 7 days! Naturally, I was intrigued by this claim and bought the product blindly. Read on to know whether Dabur Active Blood Purifier satisfies its claims or not.

Products claims: Dabur Active Blood Purifier purifies blood to give you pimple free skin with natural glow. Its natural formulation works from inside to purify blood and attacks bacteria so that the blood gets purified and there is improvement in pimples or other skin ailments.

• It promises start of action within 7 days

• Prevents recurrence of pimples

• Pimple free skin with natural glow

• Goodness of Honey for excellent taste

• Safe & effective

Price and quantity: Rs.95 for 200ml (Buy HERE for Rs.80)

Key Ingredients:

Manjistha: It is beneficial for skin health. It acts as a rejuvenator and has inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Khadira: Known for its blood purification properties. The name Khadira literally translates to the one that destroys disease and brings stability to the body.

Shveta Sariva, Nimba, Madhusnuhi, Haridra, Guduchi and Madhu.

Directions to use: (Adults) 2 tablespoonful (10ml) twice daily or as directed by the physician.

Packaging:

The syrup comes in a glass bottle with a metal screw lid. The bottle is housed in an outer carton which details all about the product. I wish there was a measuring cap with it so that we can measure 10ml. The packaging comes in 2 sizes – 100ml and 200ml.

Texture and fragrance:

The syrup is dark brown in color and resembles a cough syrup. It has a herbal fragrance mixed with honey which is soothing to the senses.

My experience:

I started drinking this syrup twice daily – once in the morning and once in the evening. I drank it before having breakfast or dinner on an empty stomach for more effective results. The taste is little herbal and little sweet due to the presence of honey. It tastes very much like the Himalaya cough syrup. Unlike other health supplements which I had to force down my throat, I actually liked this taste and am glad that they have added honey. As without honey, am sure it will taste horrible. At the time I started drinking this, I was suffering from heavy acne, dryness and pigmentation issue. Which was why I bought this in the first place. I was waiting for 7 days as mentioned. But I couldn’t notice any effect at all. I mean no effect, nothing and nothing at all. I waited 10 days. Still no results. I was totally disappointed. I thought just drinking Patanjali Amla Juice would be more effective than this as I have done in the past. But Patanjali Amla Juice has a very bitter taste and I had to force myself to drink it everyday.

After 10 days, I gave up hope and was simply drinking to finish the bottle. By the end of the month, I could see my pimples clearing up. Maybe you can argue the pimples cleared up on its own and its not the effect of the product. But unlike usual times, this time the pimples didn’t leave behind any marks or scars. And I could also see a nice healthy glow in my skin. Similar to the effect I got with Patanjali Amla Juice. Also, I used to face regular acidity and gastric problems. But after a month of drinking Dabur Active Blood Purifier, they reduced. In my opinion the product works, but it takes more time and is slower than similar products. But it tastes better.

Pros:

* Nice sweet taste due to the presence of honey.

* Easy to drink.

* With regular use, gives natural glowing skin.

* Pimples are cleared without leaving behind any marks.

* Reduces acidity and gastric problems.

* Impressive ingredients list.

* Affordable.

Cons:

* Takes time to show results.

Rating: 4.5/5

Verdict: Overall, Dabur Active Blood Purifier is a good health supplement for clear and glowing skin. And also for general health and wellbeing. Unlike other health supplements, it tastes good due to addition of honey. It takes time to show results but is worth the wait.

Top 10 Moisturizers for Oily and Combination Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Moisturizers for Oily and Combination Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

As we emphasize on the CTM routine, the application of moisturizer is very well for the oily and combination skin as well. This becomes slightly challenging because the temperature for most of the time is generally hit and humid and too much products on the face will surely clog the pores and make it look oily. Therefore, the oily and combination skin will always have to choose a moisturizer that would control the sebum, gives a matte look and would nourish the skin as well.

Therefore, I have compiled a list of the top 10 moisturizers for oily and combination skin in India for your convenience. Let’s have a look at it.

OILY SKIN TYPE

1. Lacto Calamine Skin Balance Oil Control Lotion: Price – INR 160 for 120 ml (Buy HERE)

This is a quite well known choice of moisturizer for oily and combination skin types for all seasons. Lacto Calamine comprises of Kaolin which has natural minerals, acts as an exfoliator and helps in dead skin removal. It moisturizes the skin thoroughly and then gives a soft matte and shine free look. It also contains Glycerin helps control excess oil, thus reducing acne, making smooth and clear. Further, you can use this as a primer and helps the base to look flawless. It will never cause any irritation and will balance out the pH level of the skin, thereby reducing the oil factor.

2. Clean and Clear Skin Balancing Moisturizer: Price – INR 50 for 50 ml (Buy HERE)

This is one of the best oil free moisturizer for oily skin in the budget friendly range and personally, I have been using it for the past one year. The Moisturiser is white in color, and has a thin consistency. It may appear to be gel-based, but is actually a cream-based product. It has a light weight texture and gives a soothing effect to the skin. This product moisturizes the skin without any greasiness or shine and does not clog pores. It has Salicylic acid that helps prevent pimples and blackheads. It leaves your skin feeling clean and hydrated. It is fragrance-free, so it suits even sensitive skin.

3. Lotus Herbals Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil Free Moisturiser: Price – INR 265 for 80 ml (Buy HERE)

Before Clean and Clear Skin Balancing Moisturizer, I had used this Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil Free Moisturiser for quite some time and I have to say it really does the job well. It has a light weight liquid kind of a texture and blends into the skin in no time at all. It is nourished with Aloe Vera which has excellent moisturizing and skin healing properties, anti- inflammatory and soothing properties. It also contains Grape Extract which acts as a natural astringent, antimicrobial and antioxidant moisturizer for oily skin. Thus, the skin will feel nourished and rejuvenated after prolonged usage.

4. L’Oreal Hydrafresh Deep Boosting Essence: Price- INR 685 for 50ml (Buy HERE)

Essence is one of the most important product in the Korean skincare routine and works excellent as a moisturizer for oily skin. The L’Oreal Hydrafresh Deep Boosting Essence has been formulated with triple hyaluronic acid technology and by this method the moisture is continuously diffused through the skin and locked at several layers, thereby hydrating the skin on one hand and then keeping it matte on the other. It is also supplemented with the goodness of Vitamin E and protect skin from external aggressions. This is one provides a fresher and younger looking complexion when used twice a day religiously.

5. Forest Essentials Pure Aloe Vera Light Moisturising Facial Gel: Price – INR 1250 for 50g (Buy HERE)

Aloe Vera gel is the best possible moisturizer for oily skin and the FE Pure Aloe Vera Light Moisturising Facial Gel has the added benefits of other ingredients that makes the skin glow from within. It is light, cool facial contains Aloe Vera has strong soothing and moisture retaining properties with a soft texture that blends into the skin like a dream. The Genhu Extracts in it prevents premature aging and reduces ultra violet rays induced sun damage to the skin. It further helps in drainage of secretions from the sebaceous glands of the skin and thereby helps in thwarting of black heads.

6. Neutrogena Oil – Free Moisture SPF 15: Price – INR 349 for 115 ml (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena is one brand you can trust blindly when it comes to skin care within budget friendly price tag. This oil free moisturizer comes with a sun protection formula of 15 and prevents skin from darkening. It has a rather lightweight, non-greasy texture with a consistency of a liquid lotion and keeps the skin moisturized for around 7-8hours without getting oily or greasy. The sheer formula absorbs quickly into skin leaving it smoother and softer. This moisturizer has a tested formula that contains no fragrance, no dyes, and no excess ingredients. It is completely non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores that can cause skin to break out.

COMBINATION SKIN TYPE

7. Plum Aloe Caring Day Moisturizer: Price – INR 450 for 60g (Buy HERE)

The Plum Aloe Caring Day Moisturizer is a light weight cream that gets absorbed into the skin and gives a flawless nourished skin without greasiness. This is the perfect pick for combination skin. It is manufactured with the purest natural ingredients, devoid of any chemicals, synthetic colors, PABA, SLS, etc. it repairs dryness, dullness and gives a hydrated skin. This has been formulated with the goodness of organic Aloe juice, which nourishes and heal skin. Further, it has the goodness of vitamin E providing wholesome nourishment.

8. Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Combination Skin: Price – INR 299 for 118 ml (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena has specialized moisturizers for every skin type. This has a lightweight, dual-action formula that moisturizes dry areas while it controls oily shine. It is a special oil-absorbing Micro-sponge system controls oil and shine in the T-Zone for combination skin. This moisturizer is non-comedogenic and therefore won’t clog pores or break out even if you have acne prone skin. The skin feels softer and smoother which further adds a natural and matte finish throughout the day.

9. The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream: Price – INR 995 for 50 ml (Buy HERE)

TBS is one of the top brands for skin care in India and the Vitamin E Moisture Cream perfectly fits he description for combination skin. it is powerfully enriched with one of the best antioxidants that help protect the skin against damaging environmental elements, such as the sun, pollution and cigarette smoke. It also helps to neutralize free radicals, which are destructive molecules that attack cell on the skin. it retains the moisture for a long time, keeping the skin supple and soft without getting greasy and oily. It also contains lanolin which is one of nature’s richest moisturizers.

10. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Protective Care – Combination to Oily Skin – INR 1350 for 40ml (Buy HERE)

La Roche-Posay Toleriane is a non-oily emulsion that blends into the skin like a dream. It gives an instant soothing and hydrating effect to the skin after application and calms the irritated skin. This product has been formulated for oily to combination skin and hydrates the dry areas without making it oily at all. The emulsion penetrates instantaneously and restores skin comfort. It is non-comedogenic and won’t clog the pores at all. Further it is fragrance-free, preservative- free and paraben-free.

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice list Sanchita. I used to swear by Lacto Calamine and still use only that on days when I don’t wish to use anything else on the face.

Have you tried these? Which is your favourite moisturizer for oily-combination skin?

Must have Bags in Every Girl’s Closet

Must have Bags in Every Girl’s Closet

By Pallavi

Hiii Fashionistas, We all are crazy about accessories, accessories are something that make or break your look. And handbags are something really detrimental for your look.

You need different types of handbags for different occasions. Have a look at some of the MUST have handbags in your stash –

Shoulder Bag

1. Shoulder Bag – These are the most common handbags which you can easily carry on your shoulders. They have to be carried on your shoulders through the straps attached to them. They come in different shapes and sizes and patterns too. This one is perfect for both formal and semi-formal looks.

Sling

2. Cross Body or Sling Bags – These are so trendy and in these days. They are perfect for even outings while you are travelling or a day brunch or night out. They are small in size but are perfect to carry your essential things.

Clutch

 

3. Clutches – These are for those occasions when you want to carry a small bag but you are not comfortable with the shoulder straps thing. You just want to carry your bag in your hands, then clutch is perfect. It comes in different designs and you can pick as per the occasion.

Satchel

4. Jhola or Satchel Bags – The big bags which just need to be loosely held on your shoulders. They have a good space inside it where you can store a number of things. They are perfect for students or for travel enthusiasts.

Tote Bag

5. The Tote Bag – This is so trendy and comfortable to carry. They are made up of soft clothing material which is not only easy and comfortable to carry but also inexpensive. You can carry a lot of stuff in totes.

Weekender Bag

6. Weekender – These are the large bags wherein you can carry your world inside it. they come in different shapes but all of them have huge space inside them. You can use them as gym bags, diaper bags, grocery bags and likewise.

Bucket Bag

7. Bucket Bags – Another trendy and new in market bag. They are in the shape of a bucket as goes the name. They come with adjustable shoulder straps which you need to tighten in order to close it.

Backpack

8. Backpacks – Best bag for travel enthusiasts. They come with a huge space inside wherein you don’t need to arrange your stuff just throw them in. And they come with adjustable straps so you can tighten them as per your choice.

Duffle

9. Duffle Bag – A spacious bag perfect for travelling for short trips. You can also use them as a sports bag too.

Messenger Bag

10. Messenger Bag – This is another roomy bag with very long shoulder straps. You can even style them as a cross body bag or you can wear them loosely hung over shoulders bag.

Envelope Clutch

11. Envelope Clutch – Another trendy bag more like a day time clutch. It comes in the shape of a envelope which is slightly large in shape.

So, that were some of the must have handbags from my side. Hope you like them. Let me know your thoughts in the comments down below.

Image Source: 1,2,3

Editor’s Note: You have covered each and every type Pallavi, nice post.

Which is your favourite? Currently I am loving bucket bags and backpacks. Totes are of course a favourite!