Tag Archives: Natural Remedies

A Daily DIY Ubtan That Will Transform Your Skin Forever!

A Daily DIY Ubtan That Will Transform Your Skin Forever!

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.

Available HERE

Priced at: 249 INR for 200g

 

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.

Available HERE

Priced at: 330 INR for 250g

 

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.

Available HERE

Priced at: 199 INR for 100g

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!

Have you tried DIY Ubtans at home?

How to Make your Hair Stronger & Thicker Naturally

How to Make your Hair Stronger & Thicker Naturally

Do you want a stronger, thicker mane? Well, who doesn’t. One of the main causes for weak hair is thinning, which makes it more prone to hair fall, and inversely overall thinner density and fine hair. Many of you have always asked for my hair care routine, now I don’t follow particular brands all the time, but these tips are something I follow in general always.

This is my natural hair which is curled..no extensions
Straight Hair

Read on to know how you can get stronger & thicker hair naturally.

1. Washing hair on alternate days

If you are washing hair every day, then you are washing off the natural oils from the scalp, which keep the scalp healthy. On the contrary, if you are washing it just once a week, you are letting dirt and dandruff settle on your scalp making it more prone to hair fall. The frequency of washing hair should be moderate, preferably once every two-three days.

2. Never brush wet hair

Never ever do that. This is a strict NO-NO. Wet hair is prone to breakage. It may come off from the roots or even split in parts. Invest in a wide tooth comb, preferably made of wood, to comb through wet hair with a very gentle hand. Take a firm grip of your hair in small bunches, while combing through the roots, so that the roots are not succumbed to unnecessary pulls.

3. Well Balanced Diet

Your hair may be thin because the roots are unable to get the nutrients it needs, from your diet. Proteins and Vitamins are an absolute necessity for your hair. Include fish, daal, pulses, and soybeans (for proteins) And nuts, fruits and veggies (for Vitamin B, Biotin and Omega 3 Fatty Acids). Flax seeds, Avocado deserve special mention as a rich source of Vitamins. Also, Vitamin C helps promote hair growth, so a lot of citrus based fruits and Amla must also be included. As a last resort, you can also take supplements which usually contain biotin, fish oil, protein, multi-vitamins, etc. Also, drink lots of water as mentioned always.

4. Massage your scalp

Massage your scalp daily with your fingertips with a gentle hand for better blood circulation of the head and scalp. You can also go for an overnight oil treatment or a one hour massage just before you shampoo, with warm coconut or olive oil or a mix of both. I also add Evian Vitamin E capsule oil at times.

5. Avoid hot tools

Use hot tools only during special occasions (read once in a blue moon). Avoid it as much as you can. Air dry your hair instead of a blow dryer and use frizz-fighting products. If you still have to use hot tools, always use a heat protectant.

6. Protect your hair

Protect your hair from direct sunlight by using hats, scarves, etc. Go for regular trimming to get rid of split ends and breakage.

7. Do not color your hair

I know if someone has grey hair and wants to cover that, coloring is necessary but if want to color your hair just for the fun of it, you are going to damage your hair, especially if you go for lighter colors like a blonde which requires bleaching of the hair. It thins your hair to 1/4th of the original size! I have pictures and would find them and add them maybe. I had just gone for highlights on a few strands a year ago and that too a darker color but I literally saw the size difference in the colored strand of hair and my normal strand of hair! I am never coloring my hair again, unless I have way too many greys. Also would prefer using something natural first like henna or sesame oil if that can help. But of course if you want to color anyway, always take good care of your hair by regular oiling, deep conditioning, etc. coz color does thin and dry out your hair!

All the above tips when followed religiously would help reduce hair loss and promote new hair growth which will help your hair become stronger and thicker.

I follow all of these and try to follow the diet one as much as a I can. I rarely use a blow dryer or straighter, I prefer natural, air dried hair and let my hair be. I always use a conditioner post shampoo and also a leave-in serum or cream, I like MoroccanOil and Kerastase for that.

Read another similar hair concerns post HERE and more hair care posts HERE.

I have gone shorter this year coz I wanted a change but I am sure my hair will grow back again quickly 🙂

Do you follow these tips? What do you do for stronger, thicker hair?

Four Yummy Homemade Body Scrubs

Four Yummy Homemade Body Scrubs
Many ingredients from your kitchen can be used to make yummy-smelling face, body, and foot scrubs at home. Start with a skin-friendly exfoliant, such as oatmeal, cornmeal, sugar, or salt. Then choose a moisturizing, binding ingredient. I recommend honey and avocado, which are non irritating emollients, for the face. Olive or coconut oil will work well on the body and feet, especially on dry, scaly, or flaky skin.

However, if you tend to get breakouts on your chest or back, skip the oils and stick with honey or yogurt.

You can add other ingredients as well, such as fresh citrus juice (which acts as an astringent) or cucumber (which soothes skin). For a more aromatic scrub, add some fresh herbs or a few drops of skin-friendly essential oils. I love dessert, so I like cinnamon or vanilla in my scrubs — if you’re a chocoholic, try adding cocoa!

Below are a few recipes to get you started on your own scrubs:

Simple Cinnamon-Vanilla-Oatmeal Facial Scrub
1/4 cup oatmeal
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons honey
1 tablespoon plain yogurt

Cornmeal-Citrus Facial Scrub
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon fresh-squeezed citrus juice (lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit)
2 teaspoons honey
1 drop ylang-ylang essential oil (optional)
1 drop ginger essential oil (optional)

Avocado-Strawberry-Sugar Body Scrub
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup mashed avocado
1/4 cup mashed strawberry
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
1 cup minced fresh basil
1 drop rose essential oil (optional)

Rosemary, Mint & Salt Foot Scrub
1 cup coarse sea salt
5 tablespoons olive oil
3 sprigs fresh rosemary (remove leaves from stalk)
1 cup minced fresh mint
3 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)

Mix ingredients together and gently scrub your face, body, or feet. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Don’t they all sound so good enough to eat ! Yumm…the warm vanilla cinnamon..

Additionally you can scoop out a papaya or mango (or avocado) and save the fruit to eat later. Rub the inside surface of the skin all over your face and arms. The antioxidants and fruit enzymes will help soften your skin.

Source: 1

Whats your favorite homemade scrub ??

Ten quick face packs for the winter

Ten quick face packs for the winter

As you enjoy the dipping temperature of the winter, pay a little attention to your skin as well. Here are 10 quick and effective face packs to keep your skin fresh and healthy.

Winter calls for extra care for your skin. While the rest of your body is bundled up, your face is exposed 24 hours a day, and so it takes the brunt of the harsh climate most of all and requires additional pampering apart from the usual day and night creams.

Homemade face packs are simple to make and easy to apply. All you need are the ingredients from your fridge or larder; the fresher, the better!

10 quick face packs for the winter

1. Papaya pack – Cut a ripe papaya into pieces after removing the skin. Mash it with your fingers or a fork, apply on your face and rinse off after ten minutes with cold water.

2. Grape pack – Mash some grapes into a pulp, apply on the face and leave on for a quarter of an hour. Then rinse off. Strawberries can also be used instead of grapes.

3. Milk cream (malai) mask – Collect malai from the milk, apply carefully on the face, avoiding eyes and keep on for about ten minutes. Rinse off, first with warm water, then cold water.

4. Coconut milk mask – Grate a fresh coconut, then grind it with very little water to extract thick milk. Spread it on the face for fifteen minutes for best results, rinse face with cold water.

5. Avocado mask – Mash a few pieces cut from an avocado and spread it on the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash off with cold water.

6. Honey face pack – Mix one teaspoon of rose water with two tablespoons of honey and apply to face and neck. Honey makes the skin soft and is good for dry skin.

7. Honey and lime juice pack – Take two teaspoons each of honey and lime juice and leave on the face for ten to fifteen minutes. Alternatively, yogurt can be used in place of lime juice. Wash off after 15 minutes.

8. Aloe gel mask – Extract fresh aloe vera from a juicy leaf and apply to the face. Leave on for fifteen minutes and then splash face with cold water. This mask may irritate sensitive skin so test it first on the arm.

9. Carrot honey mask – Take twice the quantity of honey as compared to carrot juice, mix well and apply on face and neck. Keep it for twenty minutes.

10. Almond oil mask – Mix a little almond oil with milk cream or malai and leave on the face for at least ten minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This is not suitable for oily skin.

What do you use in winters ??

Source: 1

Kitchen Remedies for Clear Flawless Skin

Kitchen Remedies for Clear Flawless Skin
Don’t have the extra cash or time to spend on skin care? Fret not! Your kitchen is loaded with natural secrets for flawless skin.
Source

Dry skin

“To nourish dry skin, you can simply use the olive oil you have in your kitchen, the same one used to prepare vinaigrette. Olive oil is really good, it will reinforce and nourish the skin and it helps regenerate and protect too. This is an oil you can use from head to toe. You just have to apply it on your body. In Morocco, women use Argan oil because it protects the skin from all weather conditions. It’s a country where it is very hot during the day but quite cold at night. This oil is going to soften your skin, in the same way that olive oil will.”

Oily skin

“Sometimes, you buy more food than you need but don’t throw things out straight away, you can use some food to create beauty products. If you have an avocado which is a little bit too ripe, transform it into a mask. To nourish your skin, just crush the avocado and put it on your face. During summer, when the sun is really hot, mix an avocado with egg yolk for a face mask because it gives more protection.

“If you have blackheads on your nose, use the skin of a banana. Rub it on your nose and it will make the blackheads pop out more easily. You just have to pick them afterwards, which will stop you getting a red nose and a scar!

Rice flour is another great natural beauty secret when you have oily skin. Everyone knows about rice papers, but they are quite expansive. If you have rice flour in your kitchen, you can make a mask with it. Mix the flour with yoghurt – one which isn’t too fatty – just to add a moisturising element. You can mix rice flour with a mashed up strawberry too, which helps exfoliate skin. And of course, you can add some clay to the mask, which is the perfect product for oily skin.”

The little tip for every skin type

“Everyone says that Chinese girls have beautiful skin, which is true. They’ve got a secret which many stars practice too. They use an egg white as a facial – they spread it on my face. Then let it dry until it looks like clear plastic and take it off with tepid water. It tightens the pores and gives a rejuvenating effect.”

Source: 1

Which tips do you swear by, for a clear flawless skin ??

Natural Kitchen Remedies for Skin and Hair

Natural Skin and Hair Care Products in your Kitchen
 
Guest Post by Kate
 
 
Women tend to do anything to look beautiful and gorgeous. Hence they don’t mind putting lots of their money in getting home costly cosmetic products for their beauty care. However, most of these cosmetic products are chemical based and at times can be lethal to your skin regardless of the small and big brand they come from. You might be lured and attracted to massive ads pertaining to beauty and cosmetic products promising you instant and good result. However, at the end of the day you hardly get anything trying them day in and day out. At such junctures, switching over to natural products can be a wise decision to make. Moreover, if you get beauty solutions in your kitchen only, what more would you want in life.
For your Hair and Scalp
 
For dealing with dandruff, using the juice made up of tomato can give good results. You can rid of scales by soothing dry and itchy scalp and reinstates its pH balance. People with dry hair can use Mayonnaise. It’s your treatment mask for deep conditioning. Mayonnaise contains egg yolks which caters your hair with vinegar, protein helping you in normalizing the pH balance of your hair. Use it along with vegetable oil it helps in lubricating the hair follicles. The dull hair can be given life and proper color using pure fruit juices. For best shining effect you can try out pure lemon juice, while apply highlighting cranberry juice in case you have dark brown hair.
 
For Eyes
 
If you have dark circles under your eyes or you find your eyes with some puffiness, make sure you try applying cold water, ice cubes, wet tea bags, tea, milk or try out the slices of potatoes or cucumber. By trying any of these options for around 10 minutes, you can make your delicate and soft tissues normal from being tight and shrink. If you see your eyes pretty tired especially when you return from a hectic day at work, try using the saturated cotton piece along with cold or chilled milk and lie down for around 15 minutes. Then rinse to get the good feel. Or you can use ice cube based chamomile tea along with water instead of milk to get the necessary cool effects.
 
For Face and Skin care


 
You can get rid of the aging signs like lines and wrinkles over your forehead by using oils. Oil comprises of fatty acids similar to the one you see in your skin fat and hence competent to complement your face skin. If you have a small surface blackheads, you can exfoliate them using oatmeal or cornmeal or sea salt. And for people with deep seated blackheads, try applying a blend of two teaspoons of sesame oil, cornmeal along with yoghurt. Try applying them for seven days to get the best result.
 
Final Word
Trying these homemade kitchen based solutions can work wonder and that too without any side effect or fatal result. And above all you get them all at pretty minimal cost or no cost as most of these ingredients you use, you often find in your kitchen or your refrigerator. So what are you waiting for?
 
About the author: Kate is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on technology and luxury. Besides this, she is fond of watches. She recently bought a watch from Skagen Watches latest collection. These days she is busy in witting an article on Bulimia nervosa for her blog DIY health.
 
Images Source: 1

How To Get Rid of Wrinkles and Dark Spots

How To Get Rid of Wrinkles and Dark Spots- Top 5 Ways

Yes, you may have a substitute for hair in the form of costume wigs but there is no way you can replace damaged skin. So, it is important that you take your skin care seriously.

If you are in field job and spend most of your time in the sun then you would surely notice freckles and brown spots on your face, sooner or later. This is result of the excess production of melanin, which is produced by the body naturally to shield the body against the harmful effects of UV rays. Without a doubt, sunscreen and regular exfoliation helps in preventing and fading out the dark spots and help you restore the original radiance. Read below to find out top 5 ways to fade out dark spots and freckles:

 1.  Home remedy: Mix the equal proportions of horseradish root, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Then apply this mixture using the cotton swab on dark spots and freckles. This magical portion will fade the dark spots and enhance the natural turnover process of the skin cells.

2.   Spice: Turmeric, a magical Indian spiced widely used in cooking is well known to reduce hyper pigmentation. Look for a cream that is rich in turmeric content. For full and best results use the cream twice a day.

3.  Vitamin B3: Is known to increase the turnover of the skin cells and slow down the pigmentation process. Prefer the serums and cream that have this supervitamin as their ingredient.

4.   Tri-luma and Renova:  Consult your doctor about Tri-luma and Renova, the two well known lightening creams. Renova and Retin A contains the similar active ingredient. Retin A is well known for treating acne-prone skin type, Renova is an emollient cream that helps in treating fine lines, wrinkles, roughness, stretch marks and dark spots. A perfect combination of hydroquinone and Retin A makes Tri-Luma. It is best anti-inflammatory cream.

5.   Laser treatment: Laser treatment though very beneficial is very expensive method to treat wrinkles and dark spots. Only two laser processes are known for treating dark spots: Fraxel and Medilite C6. Each session of Fraxel costs almost $1,00 and 3-6 sessions are must for the best results whereas Medilite C6 costs roughly $400 per session.

With these 5 simple and easy steps it is now possible to bid adieu to wrinkles, freckles and dark spots. Start using these tips now as it is never too late to make an attempt to look younger and beautiful. Or, the sunscreen by Neutrogena has been known to be very effective to keep your skin protected. Surprise your partner by making him wonder what is making you glow and look beautiful with each passing day.

What tips do you suggest ?

Shingar Herbal Hair Oil Review

Shingar Herbal Hair Oil Review

What the Company claims :

One hair oil for all body types
Shingar Herbal Hair Oil is specially formulated blend using three vital/base oils – COCONUT OIL, CASTOR OIL & MUSTARD OIL. Since each body type has different needs, using only one type of oil may not be beneficial for you if you are not using the oil that is suitable for that body type. Regular application will grow your hair positively and show faster results than a regular oil.
Benefits of Shingar Herbal Oil
·         Perfect Hair Oil For Your Body Type.
·         Conditions Hair
·         Prevention of hair fall
·         Nourishing and strengthening of hair
·         Keeping dandruff away
·         Relaxes & Cools Scalp
·         Keeps Greys away
·         Makes Hair Dark, Soft & Silky.
Key Ingredients
·         Neem Oil – Works as anti-bacterial
·         Jatamansi Oil – Prevents Thinning & Hair Loss.
·         Tulsi Oil – Provides Hair Luster & prevents Hair & scalp related infections.
·         Lavender Oil – Strengthens Hair
·         Brahmi Oil – Replenishes the Hair Roots & relaxes scalp inducing sound sleep.
·         Amla – Rejuvenates & makes Hair Thick & Shiny.
·         Jojoba Oil – Provides Intense Conditioning
·         Kapurkachari – Works as an anti-septic & coolant.
How to apply
·         Apply SHINGAR Herbal Hair Oil everyday on scalp.
·         For Best Results, massage gently with fingertips on the scalp. Leave it overnight & wash next morning.
MRP-
·         50ml- Rs. 60
·         100ml- Rs. 95

     Its a small easy to carry bottle and has blend of all the base and essential oils..each having different benefits,so you get it all in one. Its light yellowish green in color and has the smell of all blended essential oils.

Pros:

1. I liked the blend of oils in it…it has coconut,castor and mustard as base oils..each suited to a particular dosha..like kapha, vitta,kapha
2. It has a perfect blend of essential oils too.
3. It did cool the scalp.

Cons:

1. Its a little sticky and difficult to wash away.

I did not see any much of a change in dandruff or hair fall..so cannot comment much on that. But yes I liked the combination of oils that go into my head when I use this..so overall I do like it.

Rating:

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

Overall Rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

P.S: Product sent by brand for review but it has not affected my opinion. 

Khadi Mauri Face Wash Review

Khadi Mauri Face Wash Review


I had got this one with my Khadi haul…I think this is the first face wash I have seen that comes in a bottle..:p

What the Company claims: 100% soap free cleansing preparation fortified with natural cleansing extracts which deep cleanse skin removing all the dirt, germs & infection from inside the pores of skin and keeps the skin soft, clean , tender, well moisturized and free from pimples.

From site
Khadi Face Wash is extremely mild and gentle; yet it is a super-effective cleanser. It helps to retain natural glow on your face.
Benefits
Gentle use removes all pollution, grime, oil as well as make-up from your face.
Does not dry the skin or rub away its natural moisturizer
Helps to improve the colour and texture of the skin
Gives a soothing effect on the skin.
Does not contains any chemicals or rough extracts, thus promoting skin health
Does not damage skin or cause wrinkles. Excellent choice for everyone.
Ingredients: Each 100g contains-
Saunf 2.0g, Chamomile flower 2.0g, Methi 2.0g, Brahmi 4.0g, Apricot oil 1.0g, Tulsi leaf 4.0g, SLES 3.0g, Purified water qs, Preservatives 0.375g

Usage : Apply on wet face and massage to produce lather. Rinse off with fresh or luke warm water. Use daily twice for best results.

MRP: Rs 135/- for 210 ml

Its a runny transparent orange liquid with a funny medicated smell.

Pros:
1. Very gentle on skin…just like my HG Himalaya Neem face wash.
2. Cleans out the skin well and gives a fresh feeling.
3. As its a Khadi product..has all natural ingredients.
4. Very little qty is required.
5. Economical….at this price…its gonna stay longgg.
6. Does not dry the skin at all…so ppl with dry skin would also like it.

Cons:
1. The smell. Its kinda orangey and medicated…weird.
2. Packaging..in a bottle…not very convenient..and cannot even be carried while travelling.
3. Availabilty…as for all Khadi products.
4. Different manufacturers make different products..and thats the reason same Khadi product can also vary in quality. This Mauri face wash is by Maruti Mahila Sansthan whereas most of the other Khadi products are from Manav Seva Samiti.
5. This does not foam too much if you are one of them who like foamy face washes..I am ok with that.

Overall rating- 3.5/5

Would I buy this again: Yes..I would like to… but so many things to try out :p..There are also other Face and Body washes like Sandalwood and Honey..

Have you tried Khadi face washes ? Do you like them ?