Sometimes, miracles happen overnight. It required just one film to catapult Shraddha Kapoor to the status of an overnight sensation. With forgettable box-office duds like ‘Teen Patti’ and ‘Luv Ka The End’ in the past, Aashiqui2 opposite the dashing debonairhunk- Aaditya Roy Kapoor, came as a much-needed kiss of life to Shraddha. A few years down the line and the perky Marathi mulgi (as she considers herself more a Marathi than a Punjabi) is riding hide on the success of a number of her flicks. It’s hard to turn a blind eye to her effervescence, charm, vivaciousness and girl-next- door avatars. Let us feast our eyes to the Best off-screen looks of this pert actress then, shall we? 🙂
1. DURING ABCD2 PROMOTIONS – Tanya Ghavri has styled Shraddha for her ABCD 2 promo tour and looks like she took her task with utmost seriousness. Pairing a Hemant & Nandita creation with Zara flats, Shraddha looked her usual chirpy self. And not to forget her tousled brown locks look drool- worthy.
2. ALL SUITED UP- The ebullient Shraddha Kapoor’s feminine spin on the power suit is simply put-Style goals. The colour with zero accessories and nude makeup makes this look an out-and- out hit.
3. DURING THE HAIDER PROMOTIONS- And here comes the girl who no guy would think twice before popping the question. Carrying this beige look with sheer aplomb, Shraddha rocks in a soft, feminine dress and rounds it off with wavy hair.
4. UNLEASHING THE TOMBOY WITHIN- The livewire Shraddha, for the promotion of ABCD 2 attended an episode of the dance reality show- DID Super Moms with her ABCD2 co-star Varun Dhawan in a Gas grey denims and jacket with a white Zara graphic tee. Opting for a casual look, she completed her look by keeping her hair in a sleek ponytail, bracelets and a pair of gold Adidas sneakers. Talk of going funky and miss out Shraddha? Naah, that is just not happening anytime soon.
5. GOING BOHO CHIC- Going boho chic, Shraddha opts for a causal look in an Urvashi Kaur outfit. She completes it with a pink top and gypsy pants with a statement neckpiece by Blur designs, Gucci sandals and a quirky ombre hairdo. Certainly, my top pick out of all her looks.
6. FOR BAAGHI PROMOTONS- Sparkling in a Prabal Gurung black and blue blocked dress during the promotional tour of Baaghi, Shraddha kept her look minimal. She opted for side swept locks and black ankle strap sandals which rounded off her look.
7. UNLEASHING THE FEMININE SIDE- Swaddled in in DvF and Zara for the promotions of Haider on India’s Raw Star, Shraddha looked effortlessly stylish and chic. Not going overboard in styling is her USP. Have a look at her feline eyes and you’ll be transfixed.
Editor’s Note: All her outfits are so pretty and feminine, can relate to her style. Loved the 1st and 3rd dress.
Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin
By Nidhal
The bright red-coloured, minuscule strands of saffron (called Kesar in Hindi) are exactly what you need to incorporate in your skin care regimen. Saffron is one spice that is capable of burning a hole in your pocket. It is used for adding flavour to dishes. It is a rich source of health benefit nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, foliate and minerals like zinc, potassium and sodium that rejuvenate skin cells and promote the regeneration of new cells. It helps in the removal dark spots and blemishes.
So, let us concoct some skin treats from the comforts of your kitchen using saffron (kesar).
1. SAFFRON, RAW MILK & BESAN MASK
Saffron is an excellent skin toning agent. It helps in eliminating blackheads and unclogs clogged skin pores. Saffron also scavenges free radicals and promotes better circulation of blood, thereby ensuring that skin looks toned and firm.
Raw milk, rich in B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and other potent antioxidants, has innumerable skin benefits! It works to nourish skin cells from deep within and keep skin moisturized for long. Besan is used to cleanse and exfoliate skin.
PROCEDURE- Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for two hours. After that, the colour of the concoction will turn yellow wholly provided the saffron you have used is authentic. Add a tbsp. or two of besan flour and mix well. Apply on your face as well as neck. Let it dry for around 30 minutes and then, wash off. Feel rejuvenated, don’t you?
2. SAFFRON & CURD MASK
Packed with various vitamins such as A, C, and the B vitamins, saffron-the wonder ingredient is known to possess skin brightening properties. Acne and pimples can leave behind scars that take a long time to fade. Using curd and teaming it up with saffron will speed up the process of healing. Sounds exciting?
PROCEDURE- It is as simple as it gets. Just soak 3-4 strands of saffron in a heaped tbsp. of curd/yoghurt for two hours. Post two hours, the concoction will turn yellow completely given that the saffron you have purchased is authentic. Smear it generously on your face as well as neck. Let it dry. It will take around half an hour to dry. After this, wash off your face with adequate cold water.
3. SAFFRON, MILK & SANDALWOOD POWDER MASK
The inherent anti-inflammatory nature of saffron arising from the high presence of antioxidants enables saffron to be used as a potent tool against various skin conditions such as pimples, acne, and Rosacea. To top it all, if we have milk (raw one please) which boosts collagen production, slows down fine lines and wrinkles, protects skin from free radicals that cause premature aging, helps fade dark spots and marks, reduces acne and promotes skin elasticity, you know it’s going to be “Good times” for your largest organ aka your skin. Finally, sandalwood powder owing to its fragrant and soothing aroma will act as the binding agent in this recipe. It also absorbs excess oil off one’s face and neck. Time to cheer oil-skinned ladies, isn’t it?
PROCEDURE-Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for about two hours. Add a heaped tbsp. of pure sandalwood powder (known as Chandan powder in Hindi) and mix well. Once a smooth and consistent paste id formed, generously daub a fine layer of it on your skin. It will take around 30 minutes to dry solely. Wash off with cold water and admire the newfound glow.
4. SAFFRON, ROSE WATER & COCONUT MILK MASK
The moisture absorbing and enhancing nature of saffron makes it an ideal home remedy for dry, chapped and rough skin. On the other hand, we have rose water (known as Gulab Jal in Hindi) which helps to maintain skin’s pH balance, fight acne, dermatitis and eczema.
Rose water also hydrates, revitalizes and moisturizes skin. It helps to tone one’s skin. It also helps to revitalize aging skin and keeps fine lines at bay. So many virtues rolled into one! Didn’t that get you ecstatic? Add to this, coconut milk needs no elaboration when it comes to moisturisation.
PROCEDURE- In a tbsp. of pure rose water, add 3-4 saffron strands. Let them soak into it for 2 hours. Finally, add a tbsp. of coconut milk. The final/resulting concoction will be predominantly liquid. That goes without saying that application would be messy but do not fret. You’ll be blown away by the results if not immediately then, definitely over a couple of uses periodically.
Within a span of merely two years, Kriti Sanon has catapulted herself to the status of the ‘Next Big Thing’ in Tinsel-town. A model-turned- actress who ventured into the glamorous and glitzy world of movies, Kriti began her career with modelling initially and then, signed some flicks down South.
Making inroads into Tinsel-town with Heropanti opposite Tiger Shroff and then, starring in the commercial potboiler ‘Dilwale’ with superstars SRK and Kajol, opposite Varun Dhawan, Kriti has her kitty full with many flicks. A towering height with porcelain skin and slender frame, she has all the trappings of a Hindi film heroine. Making her presence felt every now and then thanks to her impeccable fashion sense, let us treat our eyes to the Best Off-screen looks of Kriti Sanon 🙂
1. TRAVELLING IN STYLE- Airports aren’t ramps. So, one does not have to style themselves in an overly dramatic way to create a statement. Comfort should preside over anything here. And who better than Kriti to prove it? Swaddled in a pair of jet black denims with a casual plaid shirt and hair lustrous locks let loose, Kriti gives us major style goals with her sartorial sense.
2. AT THE LAUNCH OF ‘MANMA EMOTION’ SONG- Opting for an H & M shirt, Zara dress, VANS shoes and rings by KOOVS, Kriti dazzled at the song launch of ‘Manma Emotion’ from Dilwale. With minimal makeup and her hair done up neatly, she posed for a pretty picture.
3. DURING HEROPANTI PROMOTIONS- Opting for a bodycon dress from Bebe for the promotion of Heropanti in Chandigarh, Kriti goes simple and looks exquisite. The attire surely complements her slender frame and skin tone.
4. SHOWCASING HER STREET STYLE- Looking chic in a grey tank and ankle-length ripped jeans, Kriti left for Hyderabad to shoot for the final schedule of her then impending movie- Dilwale. She accessorised her look with black sunglasses, white sneakers, tan belt and a shoulder bag.
5. IN ‘NOT SO SERIOUS’ BY PALLAVI MOHAN- Sporting a multi-print dress by Pallavi Mohan for another promotional event of Dilwale, Kriti looked poised and pert. With a pair of metallic oxfords from Aldo and her poker-straight tresses let loose, she completed her look.
6. KEEPING THINGS CASUAL- With a heart patterned sweatshirt from Shahin Mannan that was styled with denims and metallic sneakers, Kriti posed for a picture. Certainly, not going overboard is her mantra and we see her keeping things casual but chic.
7. IN A ‘FALGUNI AND SHANE PEACOCK’ DRESS- Kriti opted for a gorgeous feathery long black dress by Falguni and Shane peacock during one of the promotional events of Dilwale. The accessorised her look with a pair of diamond studs while going minimal in the makeup department.
Editor’s Note: I loved all her casual looks, especially the Pallavi Mohan dress.
Best Exercises To Get Rid of Love Handles/Muffin Tops
By Nidhal
Flaunting a flat and chiseled tummy not only looks winsome but also manifests one’s dedication, assiduousness and attention towards one’s health. And it is tacit that such a frame complements almost all types of apparel be it ethnic or Western. However, thanks to our fast-paced lives, we cross paths with insalubrious food items, commonly known as junk food, and ingestion of which leaves us with myriad health woes.
Love handles/muffin tops are excess abdominal fat that accumulate near the waist and without any iota of doubt look unprepossessing but wait, do not fret. There are easy ways which help you get rid of them. So, jot down these points and bid farewell to those pesky love handles that are holding you back from flaunting a figure-hugging outfit!
1. KNEE DROP EXERCISE- Lie flat on the ground, abs pulled in tight to your spine, back flat on the floor. Lift legs off the floor and into a table-top position. Squeeze a ball between your legs, engaging the inner thigh muscles and lower abs the entire time. Drop your knees over to the right. Continue for 15 minutes in a set.
2. BICYCLE CRUNCH EXERCISE- Bicycle crunches utilize all of your major abdominal muscles more than any other ab exercise. This all-inclusive exercise helps tone up one’s belly and love handle areas. To do a bicycle crunch, lie on the floor and clasp your hands behind your head. Slightly raise your legs a few inches off the floor. Bend your knees at a 45-degree angle. Direct your legs in a bicycle motion while bringing your left elbow to right knee, then right elbow to left knee.
3. RUSSIAN TWIST EXERCISE- Sit on your bottom with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. You should be leaning back at 45 degrees angle. You can hold a weight in your hands, or you can choose not to. That is your discretion. You have legroom to do so! Lift your feet off the ground and cross them at the ankles. Twist to the right and touch the ground next to your hip with the weight or your hand. Twist back to the left and do the same.
4. BURPEES- Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, squat down putting your weight in your butt and reach your hands towards the floor. Jump with your legs and extend your feet to one side, land with both feet while keeping your core tight and one leg stacked on top of the other, jump back to centre, and then jump straight up bringing your hands overhead. With this exercise, kiss goodbye to those pesky and abashing love handles in no time.
5. THE SUPERMAN EXERCISE- The most frolicsome of all exercise- the superman exercise helps you unleash the superman (or should I say superwomen?) in you. How? All you need to do is stretch yourself on the ground by keeping your hands and legs straight. You need to lift your chest and thighs of the ground at the same time by balancing yourself on your stomach. Maintain the posture for 30 seconds and relax. That’s one rep! And you have aced it.
6. SKIPPING- Not only does skipping improves one’s agility, but also it kicks excess fat off one’s body. All you need to do is invest in a skipping rope and get started. There’s no ‘tutorial’ per se on how to skip. The key is to keep an eye on the rope and jump as it approaches your feet. 20 jumps for a beginner is fine starting point. So, go and grab a skipping rope.
7. LUNGES- Lunges not only tone and strengthen legs, but also develop muscles of the abdomen. Stand straight with your right leg placed forward. Now, bend both the knees to lower your body to a lunge pose. It is as cushy as that! Incorporate it in your daily fitness regimen and you’ll have not only toned legs to flaunt but also zero love handles.
Editor’s Note: I think we all need this 😀 Thanks for this post Nidhal
That Pakistani ladies are drop-dead gorgeous is a no-brainer. One glance and you’ll be transfixed for they are blessed in the looks department and how! Long cascading locks, piercing eyes, radiant skin (I do not equate radiant with fair by the way. It is co-incidental that most ladies here have lighter skin tones), chiselled frames, luscious lips, well-defined features and what not. With the advent of Zee Zindagi channel, we are now able to treat our eyes to these smouldering lasses from across the border better. On that note, let us have a look at the most gorgeous Pakistani ladies who have graced our TV screens in recent times. Admire-mode ON.
1. SANAM SAEED- Confession number one for the day- She IS my first lady crush (which means I have biasedly put her on top here). Besides her striking features, what I admire about her is her command over acting. At a time when most flutter eyelashes in the name of acting, it is Sanam Saeed who comes as a breath of fresh air. The lady is capable of giving all the top shots both in India and Pakistan a run for their money with her acting chops. Need an example? See Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Talkhiyaan (which according to her is her most favourite role till date. How do I know this? She’s my lady crush. I am supposed to know this, right?)
A model before venturing into acting fully, Sanam’s style blends comfort and trends effortlessly. A chiselled frame and oodles of intelligence make her stand apart. I think I should stop here for it is looking like an ode to Sanam, isn’t it?
2. SABA QAMAR – Inarguably the lady with the most well-defined features and another powerhouse actor, Saba Qamar Zaman first appeared in the television series Main Aurat Hoon. She won the PTV award for the best TV actress in both public and jury choice categories in the 16th Annual PTV awards on 23 July 2011. She has appeared in a variety of television dramas and advertisements. Her portrayal of a negative character- Saman in the drama ‘Maat’ won her a number of accolades.
3. MOOMAL KHALID – With a face as cherubic and seraphic as hers, a hue male fan following is expected quite naturally. A new kid on the block, Moomal Khalid was born on 2 nd September 1977 in the city of lights- Karachi. She went on to do a drama- Guriya Rani which does justice to her appearance, doesn’t it?
4. AREEJ FATIMA – First things first. She resembles Kriti Sanon to a great extent in my humble opinion. With a radiant skin that has striking features and enticing eyes, Areej Fatima stepped into the Pakistani drama industry with a leading role in the 2012 Geo TV serial Kis Din Mera Viyah Howay Ga 2, and followed it with serials including Mar Jain Bhi To Kya (2012), Paree (2013), Humnasheen (2013), Woh (2013), Kissey Apna Kahein (2014), Aik Pal (2015), Khilona (2015), and Ishq Parast (2015). We demand to see more of this pretty lady in future.
5. MAYA ALI – The textbook definition of bubbliness, chirpiness and exuberance – Maya Ali’s vivacious persona makes her an instant hit with her fans. She has worked as video jockey at SAMAA TV, Waqt News and Dunya News. She made her screen debut with a supporting role in the 2012 Haissam Hussain's Hum TV serial Durr-e- Shahwar, the same year she played her first leading role, again with Haissam Hussain's Geo TV serial Aik Nayee Cinderella. Her portrayal of the independent, strong-willed and upright Zara in the hit drama ‘Aunn Zara’ and nuanced comic timing in it, remains a high point in her career. A girl you’d like to take home to your mom, wouldn’t you? Psss… she is unmarried.
6. SONYA HUSSAIN – A renowned Pakistani TV host, actor and model from Karachi, Sonya Hussain is simplicity personified. With a glint of innocence in her eyes and luscious lips, she makes for a pretty face but wait, she is much more than that. She is known for her work on the drama Mere Hamrahi, Mein Hari Piya, Marasim, and Angeline Malik’s Kitni Girhain Baqi Hain. Her portrayal of a naïve girl who was deserted on a busy road at night by her husband in Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain struck a chord and till date, remains her best performance for me.
7. SANAM JUNG – Heart break alert! She got married RECENTLY. Yes, I understand. It aches. But that does not stop us from admiring this stunning lady. Cuurently, the host of Hum TV’S Jaago Pakistan Jaago, Sanam Jung began her career in showbiz as a VJ on AAG TV, She made her acting debut with a leading role in the 2013 Hum TV serial Dil e Muztar, which earned her Hum Award for Best Television Sensation Female. She subsequently featured in the critically and commercially successful series Mohabat Subh Ka Sitara Hai (2013), Mere Humdum Mere Dost (2014), and Alvida (2015).
8. SANA JAVED – Making her debut on television with Mera Pehla Pyar in 2012, the stunning Sana Javed made it to the A-List of models and actors in Pakistan in a period of two years. With eyes that pierce into one’s souls and a smile that melts one, Sana is blessed in the looks department. Another powerhouse performer to step into the Pakistani drama industry in recent years, Sana has all it takes to be the Czarina of the industry.
9. SAJAL ALI – With a face so angelic and smile equally endearing, Sajal Ali is a knonw Pakistani actress who is noted for playing a variety of characters in a range of serials—from contemporary social to romantic dramas. Ali first appeared on screen in a minor role in one episode of the 2009 Geo TV’s comedy drama Nadaaniyaan.
10. SYRA YOUSUF- Brace yourselves for another heartbreak, boys. She too is married. To top it all, she has a daughter too named Nooreh. Originally a model, she won the Veet Celebrations of Beauty Awards, in the Most Beautiful Smile category and the Sunday Award for Best Showstopper Award. Syra Yousuf started as VJ at MTV Pakistan hosting Bheja Fry and Most Wanted. She made her acting debut in serial Mera Naseeb opposite Sanam Saeed and went on to do many advertisements and dramas that etched her as a A-lister of Pakistan’s drama industry.
Editor’s Note: They have all got gorgeous eyes and really striking features.
Best Face Tightening Exercises | Get Rid of Double Chin
By Nidhal
Look around yourself. How do people in your ambit look? Do not get deceived by the heady cocktail of chemicals on their face, camouflaging the dullness, tiredness and stress writ on them. No matter what your profession or field you are in, you do not get a license that enables you to turn a blind eye to the natural lustre of your face. Makeup is fun and creative, I agree but if the base (read: your face’s natural texture) is not well-maintained, no amount of makeup will elicit spectacular results.
With improper, insalubrious and untimely eating habits, we are aggravating the situation. How? You are what you eat! It’s time to take back a few steps and incorporate some easy-to- do exercises in your fitness regimen to allay premature aging and drive away dullness.
These exercises will help you tighten your facial muscles and also get rid of that nasty double chin..
1. THE BALLOON FACE- One of the popular selfie poses, the balloon face targets the muscles in your cheeks. All you need to do is inhale deeply through your mouth. Before exhaling, fill your cheeks with air. Your cheeks should resemble a balloon. Hold for a few seconds and release the breath.
2. THE FISH FACE- Another famed selfie pose is here! You do not need any tutorial on how to ace this, do you Ms. Selfie Queen? However, to those who aren’t fond of clicking selfies, here’s how you need to ace this- Suck in your cheeks and purse your lips. Hold for 30 seconds and then relax.
3. THE HULK- Unleash in the inherent Hulk in you by performing the “Hulk Exercise”. This exercise targets the loose skin drooping from one’s neck. To perform it, tilt your head backwards, purse your lips out and place your fingers at the bottom of your neck. Hold for 30 seconds and then revert to your former position. Continue for 5 minutes.
4. THE ‘SMOOTH THE FOREHEAD’ EXERCISE- To target the fine lines that develop on one’s forehead with time, the ‘smooth the forehead’ exercise proves to be fruitful. Place your fingers on the forehead, both facing each other. Spread the remaining fingers likewise and gently swipe the forehead while applying a light pressure to ‘smoothen’ the lines. Continue for 5 minutes.
5. THE ‘TONGUE OUT’ EXERCISE- This exercise may look as if you are teasing someone. So if you intend to and are confronted by them, tell them that it’s a face tightening exercise and walk away slyly! To perform this exercise, raise your eyebrows as high as you can and open your eyes as wide as possible. Hold them for five seconds. Stick your tongue out as far as you can and hold for a few seconds.
6. MASSAGING THE PHILTRUM- The grove between your nose and upper portion of the lip is called the philtrum. Massaging it will sort out smoker’s lines. Doing so is easy too. All you need to do is make inward circular movements using your index finger for 5 minutes. That’s all, you’re done. Incorporate it in your “daily” regimen. It doesn’t need any sophisticated equipment or state of body too.
7. KAPAALBHAATI PRANAYAAM- Kapaal stands for “skull” while bhaati means “shine”. Translated literally, Kapaalbhaati Pranayaam means the “skull shining” exercise. Regular practice will impart an enviable lustre to your face. Doing it is also cushy. Simply sit in a cross-legged position. Let your left hand rest on your left thigh and knee. Now, close the right opening of your nose using your right hand. Inhale deeply. Hold for 15 seconds. Close the left opening of your nose and exhale slowly. That’s Kapaalbhaati Pranayaam andyou have aced it! Do it at least 15 times a day and increase the frequency as you get accustomed to it.
Editor’s Note: These are some interesting exercises, much needed. Will definitely be trying.
Have you tried any of these exercises for tightening your face?
Top Natural Skin, Hair and Body Care Brands in India
By Nidhal
Tossing away all those chemical-laden cocktails into the trash seems a herculean task given the paucity of alternatives at hand at present, isn’t it? Not anymore. You do not have to repine anymore for there are some niche brands that are not just environment-friendly in their approach but also cent per cent transparent about the ingredients’ list of each and every product of theirs. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it?
No need to glower at your high-end chemical-laden product anymore for burning a hole in your pocket and not throwing any commendable results for here you go with a list of Indian brands- all of which sell via Amazon India, that are not just safe for topical application but also budget-friendly.
1. MAHAGRO – A small but incredulously devoted team based out of Hyderabad, MahaGro may have entered the natural skin, hair and body care market recently (2012) but earns a thumbs up from one and all thanks to their nourishing all-natural, chemical-free, preservative-free, artificial-fragrance- free and cruelty-free products.
Offering not just beauty products (like- herbal bath powder, pimple pack, face pack, hair wash powder, etc.) but also ingredients that can be used to whip one’s own recipes (like orange peel powder, tulsi powder, etc.), their products don’t cost an arm and a leg if you’re contemplating adding the same to your shopping carts. Owned by the obliging Krishna Karthik, they are about to launch herbal soaps and shampoos soon in addition to shipping products PAN India.
My vote of approval goes to the following products-
(a) Herbal bath powder- Enriched with the benefits of myriad herbs in dried form with a lingering aroma of camphor predominantly, Mahagro’s herbal bath powder makes for an efficacious face pack too in addition to being a bath powder. Ideal for use in summers when the mercury rises to unprecedented levels, it cools one’s skin instantly, thereby soothing it.
(b) Herbal hair wash powder- To those who are fond of giving a wide berth to chemical-laden hair masks/packs, Mahagro’s herbal wash powder is of use. Composed of only dried herbs and leaves sans any chemical preservatives, teaming it with one’s base ingredient of choice say- coconut milk, would work wonders for one’s mane. Regular use will obviously throw much more flattering results vis-à- vis a single use.
2. TARIKA AYURLABS- The picture-postcard Pondicherry (called Pondy by the locals) gives one’s eyes not just sights to behold but also one’s skin and hair, oodles of unadulterated nourishment through a brand that targets beauty woes through the ancient Indian science- Ayurveda. Not even 1% of the composition of any of their 100% natural, vegan, cruelty-free and chemical-free products contain any nasties that’d compel you to grimace.
Crafting a wholesome combo of products, ranging from hair oils, face serums, face masks to face scrubs, each product impresses with its unique composition. From offering products that seek to address the woes of aging, pimples/spots, foul body odour, excess hair fall to having lacklustre skin, they offer beauty combos that work wonders in allaying the same with regular use.
I would recommend Tarika’s daily facial sandal face mask as well as night oil for face (saffron) to all those whose skin loses its lustre and glow thanks to the barrage of chemical-laden cocktails we pour on ourselves daily in a bid to get the same. A little goes a long way that’s what I realised after using both the gems! Versatile enough to be blended with raw milk and neem decoction, the mask suits every skin type, leaving your skin inherently cleansed and nourished NATURALLY.
The cherry on the cake is Tarika Night oil for face (saffron). The aroma is ethereal, heavenly…a sort of aphrodisiac, taking your olfactory senses to a ride. Upon applying, with a little massage, it blends in with one’s skin easily. Sleep with it for within a few days, you will wake up with skin that looks restored to life. Let’s be rational- one or two uses won’t throw wondrous results. Given the kind of environs we inhabit, we need to be persistent in application. And if we are, the beauty combo from Tarika Ayurlabs leaves you chuffed.
PRICE-
Daily Sandale Beauty Mask: INR 480 for 50g (Buy HERE)
Night Oil for Face Saffron: INR 695 for 30ml (Buy HERE)
3. ISHAAN ENTERPRISES: RAYAAN HERBALS- Based out of Hyderabad, this all-natural venture helmed by Mrs. Reshma Thakur believes in giving a wide berth to chemical preservatives. Incepted in 2013 with a vision to craft exquisite skin, hair and body care products sans any hogwash (read: chemicals), Rayaan Herbals (the brand) that comes under Ishaan Enterprises (the company) came to the rescue of all those fraught with seeing chemical-laden products inundate markets! With an expanding range that seeks to cater to varying needs of its customers, if you are at the sea, don’t repine for you can touch base with them (Facebook) and get products tailor-made to suit your needs. Another feather in their cap is that they manufacture the products themselves so every facet is scrutinised to the backbone.
Coming from raw parts of a plant say- stems, flowers, roots, leaves, etc. their herbal products are intricate mixes of herbs. In my humble opinion, one should give a shot to their Hair shining pack. A natural fix for those whose locks look lustreless and drained off gloss, mixing it with the base ingredient that’s most compatible with one’s locks will ensure that it packs a punch at other hair woes too like- lack of softness, brittleness, etc. Dedicated use overtime will surely leave one with more thunderous results than single/two-time uses. It performs to a great extent on what it claims, however, do not get dispirited within a few uses for everyone’s hair condition differs and depending on how damaged one’s locks are, it will work.
4. IRAYA- ‘From the earth’ as is meant by its name in Sanskrit, Iraya- based out of Ahmedabad brings forth to our notice, the bountifulness of nature, which when harnessed ethically nourishes us to the backbone. Without elaborating much on what all the brand offers (Because we all know that! Iraya is a established name. One needs to be living under the rock to be unaware of it), what the USP of Iraya is to me, is that they not just ferret out the most esoteric herbs and blend them to concoct nourishing skin treats but also name their products in a way that is strongly reminiscent of the days when people relied on Ayurveda and natural remedies to tend to her beauty woes instead of store-bought products.
The product I recommend is the Kantivardhak Lepa which does justice to its name- imparts a winsome glow (Kanti) to my face and neck within a few applications without stinging it. Versatile enough to be blended with as many base ingredients (such as- curd, buttermilk, rose water, etc.) as you can come up with, it gets my vote of approval. I find it apt for use by all skin types. Slough it gently while removing to aid the process of scrubbing. Wouldn’t that be equivalent to saying that we are getting the best of both worlds- scrubbing as well as getting a glow? Yes, it surely would be.
5. RAW RITUALS- Handcrafting taken seriously- that’s how I delineate Raw Rituals. Based out of Ahmedabad, this organic skin and hair care venture is helmed by the warm and welcoming Mrs. Lovina Aggarwal and makes no about doing everything manually be it- boiling, whipping, blending, packaging, or designing. If that’s insufficient then, they have all the feathers in their cap to sweep you off your feet- cruelty-free, organic, preservative-free and cent per cent transparent about the ingredients added.
Offering lip balms, face packs, face scrubs, hair oils, body massage oils, face serums and cold-pressed soap- all free from chemicals, there is no reason why Raw Rituals doesn’t deserve a place on our list. I would recommend Raw Rituals’ peppermint and orange lip butter to all those looking to soothe their perennially dry lips that yearn for all the more moisturisation as the mercury goes down. The USP is that it is colourless, thus apt for use by men/boys too. The subtle aroma is capable of sending you into a tizzy thanks to peppermint essential oil which it is replete with.
Read the reviews of the orange lip butter HEREand their Ethereal Face Serum HERE
The list of hair woes is endless. However, there is one wonder ingredient in your pantry that can rescue your mane from all the trouble. It’s none other than the good Ol’ onion. Don’t believe? Have a look at its benefits for your mane. Jot down these benefits of onion for hair so that the next time you suffer from any hair woe that can be combated by use of onion juice, you have something to refer to which will bring you back to me, hopefully thanking me.
1. ARRESTS HAIR FALL- Tried every possible product and home remedy to somehow arrest your crowning glory’s strands fall like wilted leaves off your head? Dissatisfied still? Give a shot to onion juice. Onion is a rich source of sulphur, which is extremely beneficial for healthy hair growth. It prevents hair breakage and accelerates regrowth of hair.
PROCEDURE- Gently massaging the fresh juice of an onion or two onto the scalp helps increase blood circulation, thereby strengthening the hair follicles. Be patient and persistent as I always say. I understand that saying this is a cakewalk and being in the shoes of the person suffering is a Herculean task but stressing will aggravate the situation all the more. Follow the regimen for at least two months twitch a week.
2. BID ADIEU TO PREMATURE GREYING OF HAIR- Does your face pucker on seeing those hideous white strands making a peak-a- boo out of nowhere from your scalp as you stroke your mane with your fingers or spruce it up? Head to the pantry and raid it for an onion. Premature greying of hair is caused as a natural antioxidant- catalase reduces. Onion helps control this problem by increasing catalase. Simply chop an onion (Devdas alert!)
PROCEDURE- Strain it well to remove all the chunks and using a cotton ball dipped wholly into the juice of the onion, slather it generously all over your scalp focussing a little more on the area where you have white hair strands. Wash off your hair after half an hour and shampoo as usual. Since onion juice is entirely liquid, it will be a messy affair. Repeat twice a week for two months and anticipate positive results with bated breath.
3. BID FAREWELL TO SCALP INFECTIONS AND PARASITES- Remember class 8 th science which introduced you to the world of parasites and hosts? Let me save you the hassle of recalling it. Parasites are creatures that ‘live off’ hosts. They derive everything from shelter to nutrition from the host without giving anything positive in return. In other words, the parasite gets to be a free-loader! And we do not entertain such creatures especially if they are on our scalp. To do away with such parasites inhabiting our scalp, this time we will rely upon ‘onions’.
PROCEDURE- Simply grind and sieve them to extract their juice. Mix it with amla powder (which has a rich content of Vitamin C). Apply using a cotton swab and then, wash your hair with plenty water. Onions have anti-bacterial properties which is useful in getting rid of scalp infections and parasites while amla will strengthen the locks.
4. IMPARTS SHINE TO YOUR TRESSES- I tried it once and was thrilled to see how lustrous my locks looked after washing off the juice. The first use itself threw results, however, this point is subjective but there is no denying that onion juice imparts a winsome glow to your mane. Onion belongs to the Allium family and is enriched with sulphur-containing compounds that are responsible for its pungent taste and odour.
PROCEDURE- Simply mix adequate onion juice with reetha powder and curd. Keep it on your hair for about half an hour and then wash off using a mild shampoo and conditioner. Repeat twice a week to acclimatize your hair and scalp to these ingredients. If you wish to add/subtract any ingredient that you think suits your hair, you are welcome to do so.
5. STRENGTHENS YOU MANE- Onion juice is very rich in Sulphur content. Application of the juice to the scalp stimulates and improves blood circulation. Hair grows from the follicles in the scalp. The next time you feel your hair is losing its strength, head no further than your very own pantry.
PROCEDURE- To use, simply chop and strain the juice of an onion. Mix with shikakai powder. Apply on your scalp and rinse thoroughly after half an hour. Shampoo and condition as usual. Repeat twice a week for at least two months.
Editor’s Note: These are some interesting DIY’s Nidhal, I will surely try
It’s fun. It’s flirtatious. It’s sassy and it’s in! Confounded? Don’t be. I am talking about what has made it to the fancy of Tinsel town ladies these days… Crop Tops! There is no denying that crop tops amp up one’s glam quotient by leaps and bounds. And if your midriff is drool-worthy, a crop top brings all the limelight to it in the most flattering and tasteful manner. On that note, let us take a note of those B-wood ladies who carry off crop tops in sheer panache and aplomb.
1. KATRINA KAIF- With a face so cherubic and a body that is enviable, it comes as no doubt that Katrina Kaif had to make it to the list. Seen here is Katrina swaddled in a prepossessing Dhruv Kapoor crop top with a pair of culottes by Bodice at the Fitoor promotions. She slipped on to a pair of comfortable sneakers. A tied back ponytail completed her chic look.
Subtle but stunning!
2. JACQUELINE FERNANDEZ– Arguably the lady with the fittest body in Tinseltown, Jacqueline is seen here saddled in a simple casual crop top, printed jeans a pair of sneakers. Doesn’t this perfect for casual outings with one’s bunch of pals? Simple, chic and winsome in short.
3. TAMMANAAH BHATIA- The warrior princess of Bahhubali, Tammanaah Bhatia is the epitome of cuteness. With a porcelain clear complexion, her choice of colour is impeccable. Pink suits those with a lighter skin tone the most just the way orange complements warm shades the best. Tammanaah is seen here swaddled in a candy pink crop top and skirt by Elizabeth and James. Nude pumps? Check. Wavy beachy tousled hair? Check. Natural makeup? Check.
Fresh and feminine look? Check. She was styled by Nishka Lulla Mehra and all that endeavour surely shows positively here.
4. DEEPIKA PADUKONE- Can she stop being the winsome lass that she is so that I am not compelled to put her in every list that I prepare? Well, that is a question only Deepika can answer but I hope it’s in negation During one of the promotional legs of her then, impending movie- Piku, Deepika was seen swaddled in a black sequins sporty crop top with balloon sleeves. This was paired with distressed cropped denims. Sporty loafers in white completed her look. Pssst… I know you are drooling over her abs. I understand. Even I am 🙂
5. PRIYANKA CHOPRA- Another fashionista of Bollywood who almost always steps as if on a mission to leave one and all awestruck with her impeccable sense of dressing. Having donned crop tops a couple of times, Priyanka here shows you how to style it in a number of ways. Long skirt, denims, pencil skirts… You name it and she shows it and how! And that midriff is worth drooling over, isn’t it?
6. NARGIS FAKHRI – Her frame is enviable. Period. So is her natural pout, isn’t it? Looking her casual best at the screening of the movie- Finding Fanny, Nargis made sure the shutterbugs had a pleasant time as she opted for a Forever 21 crop top along with Zara palazzo pants.
7. SONAM KAPOOR- Can this lady ever be missed when compiling a list of most fashionable B-town divas? Sonam has been seen swaddled a number of times in Payal Singhal and Arpita Mehta crop tops on different occasions during the promotions of her then impending movie- Khoobsurat 🙂 Khoobsurat, we say!
Editor’s Note: I loved Sonam and Priyanka’s looks, very versatile.
Best Aloe Vera Face Packs to get Clear, Glowing Skin
By Nidhal
It’s juicy. It’s succulent. It’s tender. It is a magic potion for your skin and hair. If consumed on a regular basis, it endows your body with a whole range of vital nutrients. It comes packed in tubs, tubes and bottles but that’s as good as a paper airplane in the name of defence equipment! It’s not real. Raw/real Aloe vera displays the tendency to turn stale within half an hour of being extracted.
Naturally the one in tubs, tubes or bottles would either be conspicuously fake or pumped with an overwhelmingly large number of chemicals. In the name of revitalising our skin, why then go for something that is just gel and nowhere as nourishing as our real Aloe Vera is?
Today, I will enlist a few tried-and- tested face masks with real Aloe Vera that you can easily whip at home to nurture your skin from within
1. ALOE VERA & HONEY MASK
The secret of Aloe Vera lies in its long, tender, succulent leaves – it is this gel that makes aloe vera a magical plant. It contains a host of beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, lectins and mannans etc. The main constituent of Aloe Vera is water but it also packs inside a bulk of minerals, vitamins and many active compounds which will leave your skin nourished and refreshed.
Honey, on the other hand, being a humectant (moisture binding agent) traps in moisture and doesn’t let your skin feel dry or stretchy.
PROCEDURE- Simply extract the gel of a whole Aloe vera plant and add half the quantity of raw (preferably Manuka) honey to whatsoever quantity of Aloe Vera gel you’ve extracted. Mix, apply and wash after 15 minutes. Since the mask contains honey, it won’t dry up solely so, there’s no point in sitting with it for hours. At most, half an hour is suggested after which Aloe vera would tend to be infested by bacteria.
2. ALOE VERA & CURD MASK
Known to be a peerless retainer of one’s skin’s firmness, Aloe vera in combination with curd that has lactic acid and hence, efficacious in lightening scars, spots, freckles, marks, blemishes, etc. is a wonderful mask to kick away spots and dullness. It also raises radiance.
PROCEDURE- As usual, extract the gel of an Aloe Vera plant (a single leaf would be sufficient) painstakingly and add two tbsp. of curd to it. Mix both well, massage on your skin gently and let it stay for 15-20 minutes or till it gets dry completely. Wash off with ample cold water to reveal brighter and energised face.
3. ALOE VERA, BESAN & HALDI POWDER MASK
The humble Aloe Vera gel has anti-microbial properties which spells cheer. Why? Because that makes it ideal to treat acne and pimples. Did I just see acne-prone ladies cavort excitedly on reading this? Besan helps to sort sallow complexion thereby evening out skin tone. Haldi makes for an excellent instant skin brightening ingredient that you just cannot skip in this recipe. I would suggest using either Kasthoori Haldi or Amba Haldi because these two variants are exclusively crafted for skin care and won’t turn your skin yellow if applied a little in excess (of course, don’t add an entire pack of Haldi just to ascertain the level at which your skin would turn yellow)
PROCEDURE- Simply extract Aloe vera’s gel off a leaf. Add a tsp of Kasthoori haldi or Amba haldi as well as besan. Mix well, apply and wash off within 15-20 minutes. Do not keep any Aloe vera face mask for more than half an hour. It gets infested by bacteria. You may not feel it but its nutritive value surely diminishes.
4. ALOE VERA, MILK & RICE FLOUR MASK
This mask comes to rescue to those who are battling sunburns. Aloe vera helps reduce inflammation and when teamed up with milk (that is high in lactic acid which lightens blemishes and deep cleanses skin) and rice flour (which helps to even out complexion), there’s surely no way your sunburn would stay for long.
PROCEDURE- Simply mix adequate amount of raw Aloe vera gel in a tablespoon of rice and little milk (enough to liquefy) the resulting mixture and smear it liberally on your skin. Once dry, splash cold water and scrub it gently to remove it. Voila! Someone’s glowing.
Editor’s Note: Loved this! I love curd & honey, definitely trying first two <3
Do you use aloe vera in your DIY face packs? How do you use it?
