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Sivanna Colors Shining Star Shimmer Brick Review, How to Use, Where to Buy

Sivanna Colors Shining Star Shimmer Brick Review, How to Use, Where to Buy

Sivanna Colors Shining Star Shimmer Brick Review, How to Use, Where to Buy

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION

Highlighters have becomes an addiction. No matter how many I have – be it in liquid form, stick or pressed or powder, all I want is that blinding glow on my face. The only thing missing from my collection was the infamous Shimmer Brick. Shimmer Brick is surely a multi-purpose product which can be used in various ways – like blush, bronzer, highlighter, eyeshadow, etc. I didn’t want to splurge on Bobbi Brown or Revlon in that case and decided to pick up the dupe in Sivanna Colors. Here’s my review on it and the various ways I use this Shining Star Shimmer Brick.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Be a radiant star by applying to cheek bones or light dusting all over.

  • High quality ingredients with silky glossy shine color.
  • Can be used as an eye shadow or blush when you swirl it together.
  • Best in class professional cosmetic brand.
  • Perfect for both professional use and personal use.

PRICE – Rs. 400 for 7g (Price varies from store to store)

MY REVIEW

The packaging is exactly like the Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick. It comes in a matte black cardboard box with a transparent top which enables you to see the shades for yourself while purchasing. The Shimmer Brick is encased in a sleek glossy, sturdy black square box with a transparent lid. There are 5 rows of shimmery colors which you can use individually or swirled together. The packaging is very basic but not travel friendly as it has no mirror or applicator at all. Otherwise, it looks pretty decent.

When all the colors are swirled together, it gives a light warm bronze color which is perfect for highlighting the medium to dusky skin tones. You can also use the shades individually as per your choice. The single shades are as follows –

1. This is white gold color. When you blend it slightly, it looks like a beautiful champagne color and when blended even more, it turns golden.

2. It is a pale pinkish shimmery color. A great highlighter for pale to fair skin tones.

3. This is a light reddish shimmery bronze, which can be a shimmery bronzer for fair skin tones.

4. A warm shimmery champagne color. Great for highlighting warm skin tones.

5. A dark shimmery bronze color. This is the perfect highlight for deeper skin tones.

The pigmentation is surely commendable. I hardly require double swipe using this as a highlighter. The formula of the product is soft and has the creamy to powder kind of a touch.

Thus, the product is extremely soft to touch. It blends into the skin like a dream and the glow is unbeatable. It doesn’t feel chalky or gritty on the skin at all. The shimmers are slightly loud and this isn’t a highlighter for regular use unless you can use it sparingly. On the other hand, the highlighter is the perfect pick for night outs, events, bridal occasions and photography. It gives a blinding glow to the skin and works like a charm.

The staying power is also good. It stayed on me for around 5-6hours and the best thing is that, it never smears or transfers onto the full face and thus you won’t look like a disco ball. It is extremely easy to use and blends well. It is also easy to remove as well.

The 4 ways of using the highlighter –

1. As a shimmery eyeshadow. You get the option for 5 gorgeous shimmery shade.

2. As a bronzer for different skin ones.

3. Mix little bit of shimmer with moisturizer or liquid foundation to get that glowy skin. However, use it sparingly.

4. Dab the shimmery color of your choice on the lips to have the ‘metallic’ lips effect.

Where to buy –

Kolkata – New Market, Shop ray and Shahoo, B14

Delhi – Impressions, Karol Bagh

Instagram – Fashionstorm 321

WHAT I LIKED

  • Compact packaging.
  • Great dupe for Bobbi Brown/The Body Shop/Revlon
  • Multipurpose
  • Gives a blinding glow to the skin.
  • The shade 02 is best for medium to deeper skin tones.
  • Good color pay off.
  • Soft and smooth texture.
  • Blendable formula.
  • Good staying power.
  • Affordable.

WHAT I DISLIKED

  • Availability is an issue.
  • No mirror or applicator.
  • Excessive application will make you look like a disco ball.

RATING – 4.5/5

OVERALL – The Sivanna Color Shining Star Shimmer Brick is surely one of the most affordable and quality highlighter for beginners and those who doesn’t want to splurge. It has various uses and I would highly recommend the product for the quality it delivers.

Editor’s Note: This looks so good! Many of you have been asking for a highlighter below INR 500, I guess this is absolutely perfect!

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara Review, Price, Pics

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara Review, Price, Pics

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION

On a daily basis when you can’t afford to spent time applying falsies, my go-to solution for dramatic eyelashes is a good voluminizing mascara. Given the fact that mascaras have be disposed of within 5-6mnths, I can’t always spent on high end brands and stick to the usual drugstore ones – like, Maybelline. For years I have been using the Maybelline The Falsies Volum’ Express Mascara and was quite happy with the results. The recent launch of Maybelline includes the Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara which I am going to review in this post.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara. This fresh liquid formula captures lashes from root to tip for a full-fan effect.

  • Exclusive fanning brush with ten layers of bristles reveals layers of lashes for a sensational full-fan effect.
  • Ophthalmologist tested.
  • Suitable for contact lens wearers.

PRICE – Rs. 500 for 9ml (Buy HERE)

Ingredients:

MY REVIEW

The packaging of the Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara is pretty much similar to the Hypercurl and Falsies one. It comes in a rose gold opaque tube with the fattened centre. The mascara has the screw lock system where the applicator brush is attached to the cap. The applicator wand has its own uniqueness and gives this effect ‘fan’ affect to the lashes. The base is slightly curved and help to curl the lashes faintly while applying the mascara. There is a ten layers of bristles with short lengths which prevent clumping of lashes. Thus, the wand coats and comb the lashes while applying and surely one of the best mascara brushes I have used so far.

Also, it won’t smear and smudge the skin at all and I can easily apply the mascara on the lower lashes as well. Overall, the brush adds a different charm to the mascara.

Coming to the version, the mascara is available in two variants – waterproof and washable. I picked up the waterproof variant as I want my mascara to last all day long. And surely it does. It stays intact even after the whole day of toiling around and wont smudge, smear or irritate the eyes at all. It is ophthalmologically tested and is also suitable for contact lens wearers. I was relieved to see the price tag as they kept it at par with Falsies. If I compare the Falsies Volum’ Express and the Lash Sensational one, I would say the difference is very negligible. Falsies excels in quality of the product while Lash Sensational’s USP is the brush. Otherwise, both are surely at par with each other.

Coming to the effect of the mascara, the Lash Sensational mascara adds ton of volume to my lashes, as you can see the ‘Before’ and ‘After’ swatches. But, the volume in person is much more and fuller looking but somehow my camera failed to capture it. The formula of the mascara is medium but after 3-4 months I realized that the consistency is thickening. This is a problem I face with all my Maybelline mascaras. The volume is definitely stunning and when you apply the mascara from the root of the lashes, in a zig-zag way, towards the end, it simply looks dramatic.

However, if you go on adding layers, the mascara is going to clump. I didn’t face this clumping issues in the first 2 months of using but as it dries up and thickness, it has the tendency to clump.

I like the fact that the waterproof variant stays all day long and no matter how much you rub your eyes, the mascara won’t budge at all. However, removing the mascara from the eyes is one tough task altogether. So far, only olive oil could remove the last trace of mascara from the eyes when you soak it in a cotton pad for a minute or so. With regular usage, the mascara finishes up with 4 months or so.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Rose gold opaque tube.

2. Unique fan brush that separates and coats the lashes well.

3. It doesn’t smudge or smear at all.

4. Ophthalmologist tested and suitable for contact lens wearers.

5. Good formula.

6. Adds dramatic volume.

7. Doesn’t flake off and hold the curl well.

8. Available in both washable and waterproof variants.

9. Affordable.

WHAT I DISLIKED

1. It has the tendency to dry up within 3 months of usage.

2. Tendency to clump once thickens.

3. Waterproof variants is very difficult to remove.

RATING – 4.5/5

OVERALL – The Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara is a wonderful volume boost mascara that has the unique ‘fan bristles’ wand which lengthens, coats and separates the lashes with application. it adds decent drama to the lashes, stays all day long and surely one of the best and affordable voluminizing mascara I have used after Maybelline The Falsies Volum’ Express. I would surely recommend this and would repurchase soon.

Editor’s Note: This one sounds really good. I didn’t like the Magnum Barbie one as the results were not that good plus removing it was almost impossible. Will try this

Have you tried the new Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara?

L’Oreal Paris #BoldInGold Collection Review, Swatches

L’Oreal Paris #BoldInGold Collection Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

L’Oreal Paris launched the new Bold in Gold Collection and I have the entire collection consisting of an eyeshadow palette, 7 lipsticks and 2 nail paints.

I have been trying these out since 3-4 days and here are my thoughts..

Have also done a video on the same..

L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Gold La Palette

Claims: La Palette Gold consists of a unique selection of 10 exclusive shimmer shades, from subtle pinks to bold, shimmery golds and purples that allow you to unleash your creative side and create multiple glamorous eye looks for every occasion.

MRP: Rs.1450/- 

It comes in the usual L’Oreal Paris La Palette packaging with a brush and sponge on each end and a mirror. The shades are all satin/shimmer finish and very pigmented.

All these swatches are two swipes each. There is a stunning olive green, warm bright gold, bronze pink, champagne, white gold, deep navy blue, aqua blue, gray and sea green.

I created this olive green and gold halo smokey eye with this palette. The shadows work better with fingers and I did not get the desired pigmentation with brushes. I tried different brushes but none transferred the product on the lids and finally I used my fingers.

Also there are no matte crease/blending shades in this palette and hence you will have to use it with some other shadows/palette for those shades.

The palette is not very travel friendly as one side of the shadow plate had come off when I opened it as the glue wasn’t enough on one side. It will shatter if dropped even once, so be careful with that.

I love the shades though and all are stunning and bright with decent pigmentation. I do recommend this palette, but you will have to use a base underneath as they blend sheer. I am not sure if it is Limited Edition, or wait for it to go on discount.

Coming to the Color Riche Lipsticks,

L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Gold Obsession Lipsticks

Claims: Get Set to be #BoldInGold. L’Oreal Paris introduces the latest beauty trend from Paris – Gold Obsession by Color Riche. Infused with precious 24 carat gold* for illuminated lips. (Note – *Particles coated with 24 carat gold. )

L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Gold Obsession delivers intense moisture while providing a velvet matte finish. It’s unique formula contains Jojoba oil for unrivaled moisture and comfort along with matte gel technology to create an intense matte look.

Jojoba Oil keep lips hydrated

Highly pigmented for a rich matte effect

Available in 7 different shades.

Easy to apply and long lasting

MRP: Rs.1025/-

Shades:

Scarlet, Coral, Mocha, Le
Le, Rouge,Rose, Plum

Scarlet Gold– Beautiful cool toned cherry red

Coral Gold– Orangey coral but not neonish

Mocha Gold- Deep wine

Le Gold- Bright gold

Rouge Gold- Warm toned bright red

Rose Gold- Muted rosy pink

Plum Gold- Deep grape

All the shades have very fine shimmer (except Le Gold which has a lot of visible shimmer) and give a glossy, wet look to the lips. These are very, very pigmented and super moisturising on the lips. Be careful while applying, coz they literally melt in touch with lips and it might bleed. Make sure to powder around the lips well.

Scarlet, Coral, Mocha
Le. Rouge, Rose, Plum

Love the gold packaging and each lipstick has the name of the L’Oreal Paris Ambassador, same as with the Reds and Pinks collection earlier.

Scarlet, Coral, Mocha, Le
Rouge,Rose, Plum

I am so glad these are very wearable and do not have frosty, shimmery finish. I don’t like metallic or frosty finish lipsticks. Also the shimmer is hardly visible and they make for great shades to wear normally.

I love the Coral Gold, Rose Gold and Plum Gold. Also Le Gold is a nice shade to own to mix and match or wear as a topper.

I created this ombre lip with Le Gold and Plum Gold.

Also there are two nail paints in this collection, Violet Vendome which is a beautiful plum grape and Coral Trianon, a bright coral. I feel there should have been a bright metallic gold nail paint too, in this collection. The nail paints are priced at Rs.350/- each

I will update the pics wearing the nail paints in this post.

Overall I do recommend this range and I love all three products i.e. the eye shadow palette, lipsticks and nail paints in this collection. The range is available on Nykaa right now, and soon will be available on Amazon and other websites.

What do you think of the new L’Oreal Paris BoldInGold Collection?

Chambor Powder Matte Lipstick Review, Swatches

Chambor Powder Matte Lipstick Review, Swatches

By Nidhal

What are some ingredients to make a diva? Unbridled confidence, acceptance of one’s imperfections, belief in oneself, a ‘Never say Never’ attitude, an aura of mystique and a Chambor lipstick! Okay, the first five surely are needed but can we say the same about the last one? Well, that is exactly what we will know by the end of this write-up.

While lip balms are an instant go-to fix for every occasion be it-a casual day out with one’s pals, a day earmarked for making our credit card cry (read: shopping) and even while sleeping, yet lipstick haven’t lost their charm, have they? They spruce up your glam quotient by leaps and bounds. So, in line with that thought, I grabbed CHAMBOR POWDER MATTE LIPSTICK 166 CORAL ROSE. Let’s prepare its report card today.

PRICE- 595/- INR for 4.5g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Swipe on your lips as often as desired

INGREDIENTS- Not mentioned anywhere

WHAT IT CLAIMS- An Innovative Formulated Lipstick which has both Moisturizer + Matte Effect in it. Powder Matte Lipsticks have a Non-Drying Triple Action Formula which: Bright bold perfectly matte. This unique powder matte lipstick provides high impact payoff; an ultra pigmented long wearing vitamin enriched formula glides on effortlessly with comfortable wear. Long wearing application.

MY EXPERIENCE-

The packaging of CHAMBOR POWDER MATTE LIPSTICK 166 CORAL ROSE is effortlessly chic. Not only is it sturdy but also hygienic to use. It comes in a typical lipstick package with the main product ensconced in a retractable tube. The colour is what took me by surprise. It looks fairly deep and dark in the picture but is relatively light on application.

One swipe and you get a natural flush of ‘pink meets red’ hue. Multiple swipes and the intensity increases. It looks natural on pink lips and on those lips with a little pigmentation but for those with highly pigmented lips, it doesn’t conceal it completely. Better bid farewell to the pigmentation by scrubbing it with lemon slices overtime and then, swipe this lipstick. Coming back to the lipstick, it has a very smooth texture and spread effortlessly as you glide it on your luscious lips. It lasts a good 4.5-5 hours on average but needs retouch post heavy meals.

On the flipside, I feel that it sucks moisture off my lips as my lips look dry and even feel so after a few hours of application. To combat that, I suggest applying a thin coat of any organic lip balm that would work to battle dryness while the lipstick would amp up your glam quotient. After all, there is no point in tarting oneself at the cost of turning a blind eye to our lips’ health.

Another flea in the ointment for me is that its ingredients’ list hasn’t been provided. Had it been organic, the brand would’ve left no stone unturned in marketing it as a Holy Grail lipstick for ladies out there but since its ingredients’ list hasn’t been furnished, I doubt its composition. Barring these two factors, it is a good investment. Works wonders to transform all the Plain Janes out there into Black Widows (okay, I admit Black widow isn’t the perfect example but she’s sultry and I have a soft corner for her) 🙂

PROS-

1. Good staying power

2. Prepossessing tint. Can be increased with multiple swipes.

3. Hides slightly pigmented lips.

4. Available easily these days. In the age of online shopping, we really can’t complain much, can we?

5. Good packaging

CONS-

1. Ingredients’ list is not furnished which raises concerns about its composition.

2. Dries out lips within a few hours of application. Using a lip balm underneath is recommended to prevent dryness.

3. Retouch is needed post heavy meals.

RATING- 4/5

Editor’s Note: That’s a very pretty shade Nidhal.

Have you tried the Chambor Powder Matte Lipsticks?

Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation Review

Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation Review

By Linda

Hey,

Happy New Year to all you beautiful ladies out there…So today I will be a reviewing my first product for the year 2017 and it’s a drugstore liquid foundation from the brand RIMMEL LONDON.I was looking for a daily wear, low cost foundation mainly for work and outings, a product that is lighter and suitable for my combination skin. This is the first time I tried a foundation from this brand, otherwise I normally buy lipsticks and nail paints as they have good range of shades.

They have two launches in the 25 H lasting foundation range,

1. Lasting finish original foundation (Red cap)

2. Lasting finish nude foundation (white cap).

When I visited the drugstore counter I did not find the lasting finish original foundation may be I missed it. Hence I cannot speak much about the former product. So let begin with the later one that’s Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation.

There are six shades available in the nude foundation range: 010 Light Porcelain, 100 Ivory, 200 Soft Beige, 201 Classic Beige, 303 True Nude and 400 Natural Beige.

What RIMMEL LONDON Claims: Medium coverage foundation that feels hydrating and moisturizing. Light weight formula blends instantly into the skin creating a nude, poreless effect. As per my experience this product did stick to what it claimed in regards to coverage,application and finish. Sweat, heat ,humidity and transfer proof for up to 25 hours. Coverage that won’t let you down. Dermatological tested.SPF 20. It does have a fragrance which is not mentioned.

Packaging

This foundation is formulated in a glass bottle with a pump dispenser and a cap that fits on top. The pump dispenser is very convenient which dispense considerable amount of product in one puff. Unfortunately the ingredients are not mentioned on the bottle.

Cost: Approximately INR 1030 [4.6 KWD] for 30mL.

My take on RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH 25H NUDE FOUNDATION

I have a medium to fair skin tone; combination / sensitive skin. The closest suitable shade I picked up was 303 True Nude. I’m a little disappointed with the limited range of shades as I found this shade to be a tad bit darker on my skin tone and the previous shade to this was lighter for my warm skin tone. On application at first the foundation blended smoothly and effortlessly in to the skin. My skin evened out giving a clean smooth finish. It seeps into your skin within seconds covering the pores and minor discolorations. So definitely a concealor is required for dark spots, circles or blemishes if any. I did lock the foundation with the compact powder. This foundation is buildable, so begin with a minimal amount and gradually increase if you require more coverage.

It does claim 25H lasting finish but honestly I do not prefer carrying makeup on my skin for more than 10 hours so I did not test if it lasts for 25 hours. I noticed it really lasts long for approximately 8-9 hours but after 3 hours my skin did show oiliness on my T-zone. But throughout it gives you fresher looking skin

It is ideal for work and also suitable for clubbing , parties as it doesn’t not flash on photographs, neither creases nor it oxidises and even does not look cakey. During extreme winters or summers I tend to develop dry skin patches on my skin but on application none of these spots were highlighted and no skin irritations were developed.

Advise you to well mositurize and prime your skin along with powder for long lasting results. If you are looking for a daily wear long lasting foundation then this foundation is worth the money. I applied this product during the day time and outdoors and noticed it did not oxidise and remained throughout but yes the oiliness did appear so it’s not 100 percent sweat proof. Works well with a beauty blender or sponge applicator rather than a brush.

Pros:

  • Evens out the skin
  • Pump dispenser( you can control the amount of product)
  • Long lasting during summers (8-9 hours)
  • Doesn’t give a cakey look
  • Photo friendly
  • Reasonable price
  • Works well during summers and winters
  • SPF 20

Cons:

  • Not travel friendly (glass bottle)
  • Medium coverage
  • Limited range of shades
  • Availability (in India)

Rating: 3.5/5

Would I recommend RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH 25H NUDE FOUNDATION? If you are on a budget and beginner with makeup then you should try this foundation.

Editor’s Note: This sounds pretty good for daily use. I would love to give it a try.

ColourPop Matte X Lippie Stix Poppin Review, Swatches

ColourPop Matte X Lippie Stix Poppin Review, Swatches

By Saniya

Hello NLM Squad,

This is my very first post on New-Love Makeup. Being from an Engineering background never thought I would be doing a Review on Makeup & Beauty Products LOL. But thanks to my latest addiction for Makeup and Skin Care Products which landed me here. Thank you NLM for being an Ocean for Makeup and Beauty Lovers like me 🙂 I am really excited to share my thoughts on this super cute baby which I got during my ColourPop Haul from the US. So without further ado let’s get into the review.

Price: 5$

Availability: ColourPopCosmetics.com , beautybuyindia.com and some Instagram Stores [Beware of the fakes though]

Product Claims for this Shade: If you need us we’ll be poppin bottles in this vibrant raspberry .

Shades Available: ColourPop keeps on adding new shades to their Lippie Stix Collection and I bet each one of us would definitely have something or the other to choose from their numerous shade range.

Packaging: ColourPop is famous all over the social media for their lovely white packaging. The lippie stix comes in a white cardboard box with the brand’s website and address specified and the shade is mentioned on the bottom of the box as well as at the bottom of the lipstick. The packaging is sturdy and travel friendly.

You just need to twist the lipstick so that the product slides upwards and becomes available for application. It has a white cap which clicks when shut.

Texture: The texture of these lippie stix is velvety matte, but at the same time it feels quite smooth and soft during application.

Shade and Pigmentation: Intensely pigmented, with a great raspberry pink shade, these lippie stix have won my heart as far as pigmentation is concerned. Just one swipe is all you need.

My Thoughts:

The only thing that made me by these lippie stix was the hype over the entire social media. I love the packaging and the pigmentation, but other than that these did not impress me. The shade being bold would be great for festive or party looks.They are easy for application and the edgy design can be used to outline the lips and the flatter end be used to fill in the lips. This shade stains, bleeds and transfers a lot.

Staying power is around 3-4 hours without any munching, but if you are like me who like to eat and simultaneously does not like when a lipstick transfers to coffee mugs, spoon, etc while eating I would not recommend this. Also the matte formula of the lippie stix settles into fine lines and becomes really difficult for removal.

Pros:

  • Great Packaging.
  • Highly pigmented.
  • Affordable.
  • Sleek & Travel friendly design.
  • Cruelty free.
  • Numerous shades to pick from
  • Velvety matte formula
  • Super comfortable on the lips

Cons:

  • Availability in India.
  • Settles into fine lines.
  • Not transfer proof
  • Oil based makeup remover is required for removal.

Overall Thoughts: For the price, packaging and pigmentation these lippie stix are a great buy. I would personally not buy these again because I hate when a lipstick stays on the lips less and stains on every other thing else more.

Rating : 3.5/5

Editor’s Note: That’s a pretty shade. I personally love the Matte X formula as its matte yet non drying and super comfortable. Plus super pigmented. Nice review Saniya, welcome to NLM 🙂

Have you tried Colourpop Matte X Lippie Stix? Which is your favourite shade?

Jan 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

Jan 2017 Fab Bag Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I know I am a little late this time in the unboxing of Fab Bag. I am at my parents’ place and the Fab Bag gets delivered at my place and from there I got it here today.

The theme this month is ‘Bring It On’. The bag is a bright pink clutch, it’s nice to travel along with and it fits many things in.

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

Products I got:

  • Sugar Cosmetics Matte As Hell Lip Crayon in Mary Poppins (Full size- Rs.799/-)
  • O3+ Derma Fresh Mask – 50g (Full size- Rs.425/-)
  • MCaffeine Neem Caffeine Face wash (50ml) – Full size Rs.449/- for 150ml
  • The Nature’s Co. Fucus Anti-Ageing Cream (20ml)- Full size Rs.895/- for 50ml
  • Wella EIMI Perfect Me BB Lotion (6ml)- Full size Rs.900/- for 100ml

I had an option to choose one makeup product and Sugar Matte Lip Crayons were also a part of those options. I was confused between Mary Poppins and Rose Dawson and didn’t have both, but finally went with Mary Poppins as I have many nudes and this is a very unique bright pink.

Also liking the full size face mask, would be trying it out right now. Rest three products are deluxe sized samples. The face wash looks decent, not very happy with the anti-ageing cream, I would have liked a scrub or day/night cream.

I have the full size bottle of the Wella Perfect Me BB Lotion and it’s really good! The 6ml sachet should be worth Rs.54/- but the sachet mentions Rs.150/- which is more than 3 times the value.

Overall the value of all the products comes to around Rs. 1790/- I am happy with the lipstick and face mask. I love the Wella BB Lotion and would be carrying this sachet the next time I travel. I am not sure about the face wash and anti-ageing cream but I don’t mind trying those.

Also got a special discount coupon from Housejoy, INR 500 off on beauty services worth INR 999 and above.

The bag is pretty decent, not bad. Definitely worth buying.

What did you get in your Jan’17 Fab Bag?

Winter Skincare Routine for Face/Body/Lips feat. Himalaya Herbals

Winter Skincare Routine for Face/Body/Lips feat. Himalaya Herbals

Hi guys,

If you don’t already know, I have got a fracture and I have been on bed rest since the past three weeks. I am at my parents’ place and the only thing I carried along with me in terms of skincare is this Winter Bundle I got from Himalaya Herbals.

I am so glad that all the things I would need in this winter season are a part of this bundle. I have been using these since the past 3 weeks and let me tell you my thoughts..

Starting with body care, I have three body lotions from Himalaya

  • Himalaya Herbals Cocoa Butter Intensive Body Lotion (With Cocoa Butter & Wheat Germ Oil- for extra dry skin)
  • Himalaya Herbals Nourishing Body Lotion (With Aloe Vera & Winter Cherry- for normal skin)
  • Himalaya Herbals Soothing Body Lotion (With grape seed and almond oil- for dry skin)

Each one is priced at Rs.140/- for 200ml (Buy HERE)

They all come in the standard white Himalaya Herbals packaging with the green flip cap. They all have Hydra-Nutri Balance which is ‘Hydration’ i.e. locking skin’s moisture and increasing skin’s capacity to hold moisture and ‘Nutrition’ which is some ingredients that help benefit the skin. Each body lotion has different blend of ingredients, as per the skin type.

I don’t have very dry skin but it does get more dry during winters. Especially the hands and legs. I use the Nourishing or Soothing Body Lotion during the day time and the Cocoa Butter Intensive Body Lotion during the night time. My skin remains soft, supple and moisturized. It does not crave moisture and I don’t get white patches or flaky skin after few hours. I am really enjoying these body lotions and I would recommend the Cocoa Butter one for people with dry skin and the other two for normal skin.

Coming to the face creams, I have

  • Himalaya Herbals Clear Complexion Whitening Day Cream (Lightens Skin tone & UV Protection- with Licorice & White Dammer) MRP: Rs.250/- for 50g (Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Revitalizing Night Cream (Restores moisture balance, nourishes & repairs- with White Lily & Tomato) MRP: Rs.200/- for 50g (Buy HERE)

Day Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

Night Cream Claims:

Ingredients:

They come in a clear glass jar packaging with a curved green cap and a white separator in between. The day cream is beige in color while the night cream is white. They both are super light in texture and doesn’t leave any greasy/heavy feeling. They get absorbed instantly. The day cream has a soft licorice smell while the night cream has a soft lily smell, as the ingredients in it.

The day cream also has Cinnabloc which helps in UV protection, but the SPF is not mentioned, so I would not advise skipping your sunscreen. Additional UV protection though is always welcome. It has licorice extracts which help in fading dark spots/acne scars and evening out your skin tone.

The Revitalizing Night Cream from Himalaya Herbals is one of my Holy Grail products, I have done a detailed review years ago HERE. It was my first night cream.

I absolutely love the affect of this cream on the skin overnight. In just 3-4 days, you will notice a difference in your skin. Both tomato and white lily are very good for your skin and it does make my skin very supple and plump, leaves it evenly moisturized and hydrated with no dry areas in the morning.

And there are two face and body creams, which work for both..

  • Himalaya Herbals Nourishing Skin Cream (Light & Non Greasy- with Indian Kino tree, Aloe Vera, Winter Cherry) MRP: Rs.125/- for 100ml (Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Winter Defense Moisturizing Cream (Dry/Extra Dry Skin- with Jojoba Oil, Wheat Germ, Almond Oil) MRP: Rs.125/- for 100ml (Buy HERE)

These can be used for both face and body. I use the nourishing skin cream on my face & hands right after bath. It is not very heavy, but if you compare it to the day cream, then yes it is heavier. If you have dry skin, you would like this Nourishing Skin Cream more than the day cream, coz your skin will need more hydration.

And the Winter Defense Moisturizing Cream is very heavy, I would recommend using it for dry patches on the body like the knees and elbows and the feet. I love applying a thick layer of it on my feet and cover my feet with warm socks and keep them overnight. If you have cracked feet, this will help you in healing them. Do it daily for 7 days, and your feet will be super soft with no dryness or cracks.

Coming to the lips, I have..

  • Himalaya Herbals Natural Soft Vanilla Care (MRP: Rs.125/- for 4.5g- Buy HERE)
  • Himalaya Herbals Strawberry Shine Lip Care (MRP: Rs.125/- for 4.5g- Buy HERE)

They both come in a standard lip balm twist up packaging with matching caps. The vanilla one has white and beige vanilla-cocoa swirls on the inner tube. I love the way it looks and smells, absolutely love the soft and warm vanilla scent. It is clear and a perfect night time lip balm. It hydrates the lips overnight and keeps them soft through the day. I have super chapped lips, they are dry as a desert throughout the year and more so in winters. But thankfully this time around, these lip balms have kept me away from chapped and painful lips which I suffer from each winter.

Strawberry Shine one has a soft pink tint which is good for day time, not a fan of the scent of this one though.

I love the fact both Himalaya Herbals lip balms are free of mineral oil and petroleum jelly. I know most of us have used petroleum jelly for our lips before, but what it does is, it seals/locks the lips and does not allow the external moisture to reach the lips. Lips and the skin around eyes don’ have oil glands and cannot get moisturized (produce natural oils) on it’s own. So when it comes to lips, they start feeling dry and require constant application when petroleum jelly is used. I also read it in Dr. Rashmi Shetty’s book ‘Age Erase’ recently. She recommends beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, etc. based lip balms, and hence these are absolutely perfect. You can feel these are free from mineral oil and petroleum jelly, the texture is very waxy and not oily.

Overall, I would say I am in love with most of these products and they are absolutely perfect for winters. I am only using these since the past three weeks and I have carried only these with me. Highly recommend them! My favourites are the day and night cream, body lotions and the vanilla lip balm.

Have you tried these products? Let me know your current winter skincare routine.

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Again I’m back with another review of a MAC product that is a highly recommended and belongs to the Studio range of collections. The sales assistant helped me out in picking the closest shade[NC 41] for my yellow toned medium to fair skin.I would recommend you to first try a suitable shade yourself before purchasing since these are high end products with varieties of shades and what you buy should be worth the money . I read many good reviews of this product due to its dual performance as a foundation plus powder hence made up mind that I’m definitely purchasing this product.

What MAC Claims: A one step powder and foundation that gives skin a smooth, flawless, all matte finish with medium to full coverage. Long-wearing, velvety texture allows skin to breathe.

Packaging

Packaging consists of a classic MAC black compact case which has a built in mirror, the compressed product (in the mid section) and a third compartment where a sponge applicator is stored. A convenient packaging which can be carried easily where ever you go. What I like about the packaging is the separate compartment for the sponge applicator [please excuse my sponge since I haven’t washed it since I purchased this product ,Yes bad me !!] .In most of the compacts, the applicator is kept on top of product due to which the excess product is picked by the applicator when not in use hence forth the waste of product.

Cost: 2290 INR for 15 g

My take on MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation [Shade NC 41]

As I applied this product on my well cleansed and moisturized skin, the first thing I noticed was my pores vanished in seconds. The powder is fine and so soft that it blends easily into the skin. The biggest bonus in this product is the sponge applicator. I found the applicator to be of a very good quality .I have been using this product for more than a year and the sponge is still intact. In fact I use this sponge for blending my other liquid foundation and it gives me a flawless finish.

On application of this product the oiliness on my skin did vanish giving a medium coverage to my skin. It does not seem to look cakey at all and even does not highlight the dry patches on my skin. The product lasts for around 5-6 hours on my combination skin. After which I do a touch up on my T zone. What I noticed is, it doesn’t completely cover the dark spots and minor blemishes and dark circles [hence medium coverage].

I have used this product alone most of the time, but somehow I feel a liquid foundation would help in giving full coverage along with a concealer and a flawless finish .As I mentioned earlier it doesn’t give a cakey look even after layering several products on the skin and it even does not flash on photographs. It just feels like a second skin.

A drawback I noticed was when you use a sponge applicator, it picks up more product than usual hence you tend to finish your product sooner. So in that case a blending brush is always helpful.

The product I’ve been using is almost over but it hasn’t broken as yet since it is fine milled and compressed well into the container. Hence no product wasted.

TIP: Dampen the sponge applicator a little with water and apply the product on to your skin. The product lasts on skin for a considerable longer time than usual and controls oiliness too. [Based on personal experience].

Definitely this is a multipurpose product that can be used alone or along with a liquid foundation which gives a flawless finish.

Pros:

  • Diminishes pores within seconds
  • Doesn’t give a cakey look
  • Photo friendly
  • Controls oiliness giving a matte finish
  • Can be used alone or along with a liquid foundations
  • Highly recommended for oily skin
  • Travel friendly light weight packaging
  • Long-lasting product

Cons:

  • Heavy on pockets
  • Medium coverage
  • Works better with liquid foundation

Rating: 4.5/5

Would I recommend MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation? Yes definitely I would recommend since it’s a multipurpose product.

Editor’s Note: I would like to add one thing here, it broke one of my friend really bad every time she used it. So I would recommend trying it out first 2-3 times at the stores and see if it suits your skin, before investing in it. If it works for your skin, then it is indeed a great powder with very good coverage.

Have you tried the MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation?

Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara Review, Pictures

Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara Review, Pictures

Hi guys,

I love Sugar Cosmetics lip products, their lipsticks and lip crayons are really good. Even the kajals and eyeliners are of great quality, considering they manufacture at Schwan Stabilo in Germany where majority of the brands do.

So now they have launched a mascara. This is the basic black shade called ‘Black with a Bang’, I feel they will be launching more shades in mascara real soon and that would be interesting as we don’t have many colored mascaras in India.

Claims: Looking for a magic wand that will transform you from Plain Jane to Queen Bee in seconds? The all-new Lash Mob Limitless Mascara from SUGAR gives you just the drama your eyes need! Whether you’re a fan of super volume or clump-free formula, we bet that your lashes will thank you once you’ve had your first date with this beauty. Creamy-textured and incredibly easy to apply, this paraben-free Mascara does a stellar job of separating, defining and combing through each lash so you’ll experience lashes like never before!

Benefits: This wonder mascara houses specially designed micro-bristles that lift, separate and unstick every lash hair and coat it with our clump-free volumizing formula. That’s not all! This game-changing makeup product also boosts the growth of your natural lashes thanks to the nourishing vitamins in the tube and contains anti-oxidants that protect them from pollutants. How’s that for packing so much punch in one miracle product!

MRP: Rs.699 for 9ml (Buy HERE)

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Synthetic Beeswax, Paraffin, Iron Oxides CI 77499, Stearic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum (Acacia Senegal), Triethanolamine, Butylene Glycol, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax (Cera Carnauba), Polybutene, Triacontanyl PVP, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Stearate, Polyquaternium-65

It comes in a slender matte black tube packaging. The brush is nice and thick and I thought it would be quite volumizing looking at the brush.

I prefer slightly wet formulas in mascaras because that helps coat lashes well. The formula of this is dry, not stiff dry but not wet either.

It lengthens and curls the lashes but does not give enough volume. If you try to layer with multiple coats for volume, it clumps up the lashes.

I am not sure of the lash growth claim as I am not using it everyday. But if you just need some curl and length on an everyday basis and it also helps in the growth of the lashes when used everyday, this is a good work wear option.

It comes off very easily at the end of the day as it’s not waterproof, but this makes this easily smudgable. It transfers easily on lower lashline and smudges with even slight rubbing.

Before, 1 coat, multiple coats

Here you can see my before-after with one coat and 2-3 coats. I like how it defines and curls with one coat, which is good enough for everyday. But as you can see here, it clumps with more coats and transfers on lower lashline.

It is decent for everyday use, but considering the price, I wouldn’t recommend it as it’s very expensive. I love my Essence mascaras which are fabulous and very affordable.

Have you tried the Sugar Lash Mob Limitless Mascara? What do you feel?