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Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review, Indian Makeup Blog

Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review

Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Professional Makeup Brush Set Review

Hi guys,

Today I am reviewing the Sedona Lace Vortex Brush Set which I have since quite some time now, I got it around the time when I was shifting and I kept them safely somewhere. And the place was so safe that I just couldn’t find them :/ Happens with you too? Let me know in the comments below.

Anyhoo, I finally found them and have been using them since some time. I have even used them in a makeup tutorial which will be coming up soon.

What the Company claims: The Synthetic Vortex Collection exclusively designed by Renelyn Monteloyola of Makeup by Ren Ren for Sedona Lace. This pro line of brushes takes makeup application and technique to the next level. All of the brushes are multi-purpose and versatile. The pink and black colors on the bristles is a registered trade mark of Sedona Lace

MRP: $109.95

You can get the zipper belt at an additional cost of $10. So the brush set with zipper belt costs $119.95 (Buy HERE). I also have a special coupon code (without expiry i.e. lasts lifetime) for you guys where you can get $4 off on a minimum order of $15 on www.sedonalace.com , so if you want to buy just 1-2 brushes, still you can use that. The coupon code is ‘newlove’

I absolutely love the pink and black color to start with and that is a registered trademark of Sedona Lace. You get 13 brushes in total out of which one i.e. the angled brow shaper and spoolie is dual sided.

The brushes are all odd numbered from F01 to F23. Let’s start with the Face Brushes first.

FB01 is a jumbo fan brush which is the softest brush I have ever used! I just cannot stop touching it and it is perfect for dusting your powder or just cleaning your face or to apply highlighter on the high points of face, or your blush or contour.

FB03 is Tulip Contour Brush which is the perfect brush ever for contour coz it will perfectly fit in the hollow of your cheeks. Also this brush is great for diffusing your over done blush or highlighter or just give a final finish to the face.

FB05 is Dome Contour brush. It’s a multi tasking brush, apply your blush, contour or powders or powder foundation or buff in your high coverage cream/liquid foundations. This one will work with everything.

FB07 is a Flat Top Buffer Brush. Now flat top buffing brushes are perfect for foundations, be it cream/liquid/powder. Set your concealer with powder or use it on places to bake for precisely placing powders. Again multi purpose but best for foundations.

Coming to the eye brushes now,

EB09 is the Universal Blender brush which is good for applying shadows all over the lid and even blending for softer, diffused looks. Like a soft everyday brown eye makeup look or times when you just want to use one shade and sweep it across and blend the same.

EB11 is the Flat Synthetic Brush for applying metallic, glittery shadows and pigments on the lid i.e. mostly for patting shadows and not blending or sweeping them. Or even for applying your eyeshadow primer/base and concealer under the eyes. Also works to contour the sides of your nose.

EB13 is the Synthetic Blender brush. It has more dense and tapered bristles, it is absolutely perfect to blend your crease colors and create those dark smokey eyes.

EB15 is the Pointed Crease brush. It can be used for your cut crease looks or for looks where you don’t want to over blend or merge colors but just a softer edge.

EB17 is the Brow Spoolie Duo. Apply powder on the brows using the angled side and brush through with the spoolie to set it in place or diffuse the powder for a softer brow.

EB19 is the Bent Liner Brush. Now we do get it separately too in a few brands here like in Inglot and PAC Cosmetics. I had done a DIY long back with my Audrey Liner Brush by bending it a bit and the bent shape helps a lot in lining your eyes easily without getting in between the lashes.

EB21 is the Detailed Shader brush which is good for highlighting the brow bone or the inner corners or even smudging shadows on the lower lashline.

EB23 is the Angled Detailed Brush which can be used for gel liners or applying powder eyeshadows as liners on upper and lower lashline.

 

And lastly LB25 the Capped Lip Brush, it comes with a separate steel cap and can be folded and carried along. You can just remove the cap and place it below and use it like a normal lip brush. Good to carry along and precisely apply your lip colors especially the reds and deep berries which need precision.

So these were all the 13 brushes in the Vortex Synthetic Kit. I highly recommend getting the zipper belt if you are a makeup artist, coz the belt snuggly fits around your waist and you can pick up any brush you want and place it in the belt while working on a client.

And if you are just a beginner, you can go for this set without the belt. These brushes are all you will ever need for any makeup look. If you have these, you are pretty much sorted. I highly recommend these brushes and the quality is fabulous too. Super soft and the bristles hardly shed hair, majority of the brushes which I own as part of brush sets shed hair crazily!

Thumbs up from me, also if you can wait, they keep having offers on Black Friday, etc., where they sell these sets at half the price!! All the brushes from the set are pretty useful and it is total value for money. I did not have to pay customs on this. Shipping cost varies on distance and weight but they usually use USPS.

I personally love these and have been reaching out for these brushes quite often. I have 2-3 brush sets and none matches the Sedona Lace quality wise. It is very essential to have one good quality makeup brush set in your stash coz good quality brushes will make or break your entire makeup look. And if you invest in expensive makeup and the tools you use do not justify that, then the end result would not be good, trust me.

Let me know your thoughts on the Sedona Lace Vortex Synthetic Brush Set in the comments below.

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion Review

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Lotion Review

By Archana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 120ml.

Rating: 4/5

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

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

Have you tried Biotique Morning Nectar Lotion yet?

Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub Review

Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub Review

By Archana

Am sure most of you are familiar with the brand Biotique. Their products are based on Ayurvedic recipes and are organic and preservative free. It is also againt animal testing. Plus Biotique products are very affordable as well and easily available everywhere. I was recently sent few Biotique products to review. Today’s post is on one of their most popular and raved about products ‘Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub’. Read on to know more.

Products claims:
This Revitalizing Tan-Removal scrub is blended with pure papaya fruit to dissolve dead surface cells, unclog pore openings and smooth the way for clear skin to surface. Gentle refining action uncovers skin’s natural brightness for a younger-looking complexion.

Ingredients:
Papita (Carica papaya), Kela (Musa sapientum), Khajoor (Phoenix dactylifera), Neem (Melia azadiradrachita), Methi (Trgonelia foenum graecum), Yasad bhasm (Zincum), Ban haldi (Curcuma aromatica), Aam beej (Magnifela indica), Bees wax, Gun acacia (Acacia arabica), Moongphali (Archis hypogea), Himalayan water Q.S.

Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 75g.

Directions to use:
Massage on wet face and neck with fingertips. Avoid eye area. Remove with water or damp washcloth. Use daily or as needed.

Packaging:
The scrub comes in a small white tub packaging with a green lid. There is an inner lid for protection and to prevent spillage. They have revamped the packaging now. Earlier it used to be all green with a sleeker tub. But still I feel a tube packaging would have been better than a tub.

Texture and fragrance:
It is a muddish-gray colored scrub with a thick consistency. The granules are tiny and black in color. It has a lovely fruity fragrance of papaya.

My experience:
This is neither a regular cream based scrub nor gel based. It is actually a clay based scrub which makes it perfect for a face pack also. The granules are medium, not very coarse nor very mild, perfect for exfoliation. But if you have very sensitive skin, be gentle and apply only little pressure. It removes dead cells and deep cleanses pores, making skin smooth and polished. Being clay based, it also absorbs excess oil and tightens skin. Regarding its tan removal claims, they are absolutely true. I could see the difference right in the first use. It managed to remove majority of the tan and made my skin bright. I also use it on my arms and feet to get rid of tan. Although, it is mentioned in instructions that it can be used daily, I think it might be little harsh for everyday use. Two or three times a week would be fine.

Pros:
* Removes dead cells and deep cleanses pores.
* Makes skin smooth and polished.
* Absorbs excess oil.
* Removes majority of tan in just one use.
* Affordable.
* Nice fruity fragrance.
* Organic, preservative free, cruelty free.

Cons:
* Tub packaging is unhygienic.

Rating: 4.9/5

Verdict: Biotique Bio Papaya Revitalising Tan Removal Scrub is an amazing scrub for exfoliation as well as tan removal. It is suitable for all skin types. For the very affordable price and also being organic and preservative free, I would definitely recommend this scrub to everyone.

Editor’s Note: I have used this and loved it! Definitely getting it again. Nice review Archana 🙂

Have you tried the Biotique Papaya Scrub yet?

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Night Spa Review

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Night Spa Review

Hi guys,

I am reviewing this innovative product today which is a sleeping mask cum night cream, you can use it both ways. Just apply a thick layer, massage well (blood circulation on the face) and leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off or let it stay whole night like a night cream.

What the Company claims: SKIN CONCERN: Dryness, Dullness, Hydration

Inspired by the Vichy Thermal Spa, this ultra-comfortable, velvety sleep mask infuses the skin with hydration overnight, when skin is most receptive to treatments. Skin is soft, soothed and supple by morning.

INGREDIENT INNOVATION
Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aquabioryl™ known to replenish the skin with hydration and form a protective film. Contains conditioning oils for intense overnight hydration. With exlusive fortifying and soothing Vichy Thermal Spa Water. Paraben-free.

EFFICACY
Bring home a piece of the Vichy Thermal Spa and experience the benefits of an intensive hydrating treatment in a convenient overnight formula. Skin feels deeply hydrated, soothed and suppler after just one night. Wake up to fresher, more radiant-looking skin.

TEXTURE
Ultra-comfortable cream-gel texture leaves skin velvety soft upon application. Formula is non-sticky, non-greasy, and easily absorbed into skin, making it ideal for overnight wear.

TOLERANCE
Allergy-tested. Suitable for sensitive skin. Tested under dermatological control.

How To Use:
• Apply a thick layer to face and neck and massage into skin with an upward smoothing motion.
• Place your thumbs on the temples and the ring fingers in-between the eyebrows and apply a relaxing pressure.
• Close your eyes, and let this fresh aqua-gel infuse the skin for 10 to 15 minutes. Breathe in and take the time to appreciate the refreshing feeling of the product.
• Repeat 1-3 times per week.

MRP: Rs.1690/- for 75ml (On Amazon HERE)

Ingredients:

It comes in this deep bluish purple tub with a white cap. It has a light blue tint and a faint aqua smell. As mentioned, the texture is more gel like and not like a cream.

It blends easily but it does not get completely absorbed into the skin. It sits on the skin and hydrates the skin as it’s more like a mask. But it will dry quickly and won’t be visible after few minutes. When you wash it off, you do feel you are washing off something slippery.

This was my go-to for winters, dryness and dullness is a common problem in winters. Skin looks patchy with those white flakes peeling off. I just used this on nights when I felt my skin was looking very dry and patchy and the next day, after washing it off, skin was soft and supple.

It is advised to use 1-3 a week, there is no harm in using it regularly too, if you feel like. Coz it has no harmful ingredients and it’s perfectly fine. I usually use it 1-2 times a week or whenever I feel like. It’s like a mini spa for your face, either use to give your face a good massage or if you don’t have the time for that, just apply and leave it on for the night.

It is slightly on the expensive side but the quantity is pretty decent and since you don’t need to use it everyday, it will last pretty long!

I definitely recommend this, especially for people with dry skin. This is really good for days when skin feels over dry and flaky.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money : 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Have you tried the new Vichy Aqualia Thermal Night Spa yet?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

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

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

Hi guys,

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

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

Starting with the Camellia Cream,

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

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

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

MRP: Rs.2995/- for 350ml

Ingredients:

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

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

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

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

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

And now coming to the French Lavender Oil,

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

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

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

MRP: Rs.1695/- for 170ml

Ingredients:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Faces Sparkle Dust Stackable Glitter Review, Swatches, Ways to Use

Faces Sparkle Dust Stackable Glitter Review, Swatches, Ways to Use

Hi guys, If you remember Faces Cosmetics had stack of pigment eyeshadows, they had a different name earlier, they have relaunched it with a new name and they are called Stackables now, since you can stack 4-5 shades one upon the other.

These come in 4 different families of colors, Wild i.e. more greens and blues, Zeebra i.e monochromes grey, white, black, Whish i.e. loads of bright colors and finally Glitter which are all glitter pigments and mostly metallic.

I am reviewing the Glitter one today.

What the Company claims: This concentrated shimmer is especially handy when you want shimmery, sultry eyes or to create unforgettable drama. Available in stacks of inspired color themes to help you create the most unique and stunning look.

MRP: Rs. 899/- (Available for INR 764 on Nykaa but currently OOS)

While the rest stackables have 5 shades and are priced at 799, the Glitter one has 6 shades and priced at 899.

I love how they are perfectly stacked one upon the other and you cannot misplace any shade as all have to be together since the base of one pigment jar is the cap of the other. Which also means you cannot carry them individually :/ I would have loved if they came with additional separate 4 caps to carry them individually too.

I absolutely love each and every shade in this Glitter Stackable, there are numerous options you can do with this.

Silver- True cool toned silver

Gold – Warm bronzy gold

White – My favourite, pure white with blue green duochrome effect.

Sky Blue – True Sky Blue mixed with a bit of silver

Plum – Aubergine Plum with gold

Deep Navy Blue – Deep Navy Blue with silver

What I love most about these is that the glitter is very finely milled and not at all chunky, it’s not like thick glitter much visible to eye and you cannot feel this. This feels soft and almost like a powder, even though it’s a glitter.

L-R: Navy Blue, Plum, Sky Blue, Silver, Gold, White

Numerous ways in which you can use these pigments:

1. As an eyeshadow obviously. You can dampen your brush with a makeup setting spray, take the pigment and apply directly on the lid.

2. Use glitter glue/Duraline and make an eyeliner with it, you can make 6 different colored eyeliners.

3. Mix with clear nail paint to get colored glitter nail paint. I would suggest taking some in an empty nail paint bottle or some base as you don’t want to mix the complete nail paint with single glitter option when you can try multiple options every time 🙂

4. Make only one figure glittery like the ring finger, I love doing this and as you can see I have done that above.

5. Try glitter french manicure by applying clear top coat on the tips and dipping them in glitter.

6. You can also use the white glitter one as highlighter, the matte sparkle dust in pinks/plums as blushes.

7. Use the white to highlight cupid’s bow too and mattify your pink/purple lipsticks by just dabbing some matte pigment on top. It will also make the colors look vivid and makes the lipsticks stay longer. A makeup artist tried that once on me during a shoot and the lipstick stayed much longer and I loved how vibrant and matte it looked.

There are endless possibilities with pigments and glitters in makeup. Experiment and have fun, my most favourite ways of using are definitely as eyeliner and single nail with glitter.

I would definitely recommend getting the Faces Stackables, the color option is something that depends on your personality and kind of makeup you look. If you are more into basic smokey, go for Zeebra. If you love colors, go for Whish while the Glitter one definitely has multiple uses and can work for everyone. Also I would suggest buying it from Nykaa only when it is on discount, coz  INR 764 is a great deal.

What about you? Do you like playing with pigments?

March 2016 My Envy Box Review, Unboxing

March 2016 My Envy Box Review, Unboxing

Hi guys,

I just got my March 2016 My Envy Box and Oh My God, the design of the box is fabulous, I absolutely loved the box and I think this is by far my most favourite box!

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

The box was super heavy when I received it and I knew 2-3 brands as I had got a teaser mail, when I tweeted about it, the team said we have more than one full sized products this time and I was quite happy and excited.

The products in this month’s box:

  • BBlunt Climate Control Anti-Frizz Leave-in Cream- Full size (Rs.450/- for 150ml)
  • Hedonista Fleur Frozen Ittar- Full size (Rs.1045/- for 20g)
  • Bioderma Photderm SPF50+ Sunscreen – 5ml (Rs.1485/- for 30ml)
  • AVA Body Moisturizer with SPF30 – 50ml (Rs.650/- for 200ml)
  • L’Occitane Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner – 6ml (Rs.1460/- for 300ml and 250ml respectively)

I am glad we have two full sized products and one deluxe sized sample this time, hate the two sachets and the tiny sample though.

I remember getting the full sized Hedonista Oudh Frozen Ittar in the August My Envy Box. I absolutely loved it and now this one again is full sized in ‘Fleur’, love how this one smells too!

BBlunt Climate Control Anti-Frizz Leave-in Cream/Serum has been quite talked about and is quite good, just use some every time post washing your hair and you would have frizz-free smoother hair.

The AVA Body Moisturizer of 50ml is quite a good size and I love the ingredients, it has shea butter and essential oils of jasmine, mogra and vanilla, smells amazing and I am carrying this for my short trip in 4 days, it’s perfect for that.

Not happy with the Bioderma susncreen sample which is a repeated product and the 6ml shampoo, conditioner sachets are not worth talking about. Sachets should be done away with, high time!

Super happy with the rest three products, the value comes to around Rs.1650/- (not counting the two tiny samples.) If you already have the BBlunt Serum, then you may skip the box, if you were anyways wanting to try it, it’s a nice box with the added frozen ittar.

Oh and by the way, the March Designer Jewellery My Envy Box is curated by Cosmopolitan India Editor Nandini Bhalla and includes pieces from Esha Zaveri, Fooljhadi & Zariin. You can also get 10% off using the code ‘JEWEL10’. See my previous Feb Designer Jewellery My Envy Box HERE

What did you receive in your March My Envy Box?

PAC Cosmetics Beauty Blender First Impressions, Demo, Buy Online

PAC Cosmetics Beauty Blender First Impressions, Demo, Buy Online

Hi guys,

So I got a few products from PAC Cosmetics including this beauty blender. While I am trying out the other products and would review them soon, this beauty blender got me really intrigued and I did the first impressions/demo video with it.

Claims: The unique shape & exclusive material which is edgeless sponge a high definition cosmetics sponge applicator. This sponge will allow the product to sit on the top of the sponge rather then being absorbed. Allowing you to complete your make-up application with less products & less time. When beauty blender is wet it would double in size & become even softer. It would returned to its own size after its dries Top Tip: Use this unique sponge for your cream, liquid or powder foundation. It can also be used contouring, highlighting with cream or powder products.

MRP: Rs.485/- (Buy HERE)

It looks and feels exactly like the original beauty blender and PAC Cosmetics also has a set of two or three tiny beauty blenders for concealers,etc just like the original brand.

There are a lot of beauty blender dupes and brands having similar sponges like from Forever 21 and many, many others. Real Techniques also has a mustard colored Miracle Complexion Sponge which is flat from one end though. That also makes it easier to blend on cheeks or apply powder.

While I have two Sigma F80 brushes and always use the F80 only for blending, this is the first time I am using a sponge/beauty blender. If you see the video, I was subconsciously rubbing and buffing the product like with a brush :/ Err, yes I am that used to a brush. I saw Kandee Johnson’ video on how you have to ‘Push and Roll’ when you use a beauty blender which looks like bouncing when done quickly. I ended up buffing but still it was super easy to blend the foundation with it, I am surely trying to correct method again and it should show even better results.

But I am blown away by how super soft and squishy this is and makes blending foundation super easy, I blended it within 1 minute and some seconds, this was super quick and it does not go streaky or patchy at all. Also the tapered end is perfect for under eyes and the corners of the nose.

While the Real Techniques one is around the same price, from the few reviews I have read, the Real Techniques one is a little harder and not as soft as this one. For the price of Rs.485/- I am loving it and definitely recommend it, it will make your foundation/base routine change forever. You can use it daily with your BB creams/Tinted moisturizers and it will work just as well. Also saves your time in the morning.

I love it and recommend it, if you try it, do let me know how you find it.

PAC is a professional makeup line, often used by makeup artists and now since the products are easily available online, we all can take advantage of it and buy the professional makeup brushes which perform as good as the MAC ones at half the price. The brushes range from Rs.300 to Rs.800, I have one more brush from them which I will review soon.

Update: My beauty blender tore a bit from two sides in the first wash :/ Not really happy about that, and I didn’t even wash it vigorously. If you follow me on Snapchat (@bhumika_t), you would have seen the pics and video. I will try and update you guys after more uses.

Do let me know your thoughts on the PAC Cosmetics Beauty Blender.

BBlunt Blown Away Volumizing Leave-in Spray Review

BBlunt Blown Away Volumizing Leave-in Spray Review

By Pallavi

Hello ladies,

Thin hair is a concern for many ladies. And owing to today’s stressed and pollution hair fall is also an increasing trend. But in order to look presentable you need to make your hair also look trendy and stylish. But that’s not possible with such thin lifeless hairs. So, what should we do??? Have you ever heard about Volumizing sprays??? Well, Volumizing sprays are actually a mist or gaseous product which when sprayed on hairs lifts the roots and gives a good amount of volume to hairs. but this increase in volume is only an illusion. There is no real volume.

I have heard a lot about these Volumizing sprays. So, one day while online browsing when i saw a brand called B-Blunt had a volumizing spray in their kitty. I decided to try it. And to cut the long story short here is the product – B-Blunt Blown away Volumizing leave in spray.

Price : Rs.550/- for 150ml

Ingredients:

Directions to use: Turn your hair upside down. Now, apply the spray on roots of your hair. If you have long hairs you can also apply it on your hair length. But try to concentrate mostly on the roots. Apply on semi-wet or towel dry hair.

Colour – transparent

What B-Blunt claims: If big hair is your thing, may we introduce you to your new best friend. This volumizing spray gives you incredible fullness and bounce, that lasts. Go big with confidence.

Details

Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Wheat protein, Meadowfoam seed extract & Provitamin B5
Specially created for Indian hair
Protects from the environment and heat styling damage

My experience with B-Blunt Blown away Volumizing leave in spray

To begin with the product impressed me with its packaging. It comes in a big but slim and stylish yellow bottle. The bottle is transparent so that you can see the amount of product left inside. The bottle has the entire product details mentioned. It has a spray like opening with a tiny tube like structure. . You need to spray it a bit so that the product comes out of the thin yellow tube.
The texture of the spray is clean foam like. It smells heavily of chemicals. When i first pressed the spray a very little product comes out. So, you need to spray the product a number of times to spread it evenly on face. Try to concentrate only on roots. The product does not wets your hair much. After spraying the product well, try to spread it with your fingers on hairs. you can see a beautiful illusion of volume. Try not to comb too neatly. This will give you a messy and voluminous look.

But sadly the volume is not long lasting. It stays only for a while. If you go to a outside wide then the volume will fly away in no time. But of course the volumizing spray makes your pouf more prominent and beautiful. Since a little product goes a long way so a single bottle will last you ages.

Good about B-Blunt Blown away Volumizing leave in spray

Runaway brand
Affordable price
Comfortable and easy to use texture
Gives an illusion of volume
Little product goes a long way

Bad about B-Blunt Blown away Volumizing leave in spray

Not much volume
Volume doesn’t last long

Rating – 3/5

Editor’s Note: Sounds nice when you need instant boost of volume, sad that the effect doesn’t last long.

Have you tried the BBlunt Blown Away Volumizing Leave-In Spray yet?

Garnier White Complete Eye Roll On Review

Garnier White Complete Eye Roll On Review

By Pallavi

Hello Beauties,

The daily stress and tight schedule always takes a toll on your skin. Sometimes dark circles and dull skin are the results of this lifestyle. I normally don’t suffer from dark circle issues. But lately first time in my life i was facing this issue. So, i was thinking what to try. And then one day on TV i saw Garnier coming up with this product. I liked the concept of eye roll on. So, without further delay i bought this product.

Read on to know if Garnier White complete Eye Roll On is worth your review or not.

Price: Rs.199 for 15 ml.

Direction to use: Apply the eye roll on the area just below eye. I had dark circles on the eye lid area too. So, i used to apply there too. Let it set for 5-7 minutes. After which, you can apply other cream over it.

Shelf life: 36 months from the date of packaging

Colour: transparent

Ingredients:

What Garnier claims: Garnier White Complete Eye Roll On Anti-Puffiness Instant Freshness

Stress, in any form, can take a toll on your skin, and often you might get dark circles under your eyes. Apply this Garnier White Complete Eye Roll-on on those areas to prevent dark circles and reduce the formation of bags under your eyes.

Unique Cooling Ball

The roll-on tube comes tipped with a unique cooling ball that helps in applying the lotion evenly around the eyes. It gives you a cooling sensation that decongests puffy eyes.

Contains Pure Caffeine Essence

It contains the essence of pure caffeine which helps in stimulating micro-circulation. This reduces the dark circles and lightens the skin around your eyes.

My experience with Garnier White complete Eye Roll On

The Garnier eye roll on comes in a very slick and attractive packaging. i like products which comes in slim packaging. It comes in long carton which has entire product details on it. Inside which there is a pen form roll on which is very slim and handy. You need to twist the product a bit and rub it lightly below the eye area.

I applied it both below and above the eye lid. Firstly, the texture of this roll on is not too light. It is more on heavier side. You have to swipe it twice to thrice to get the product out. Next, i was on the verge of when completing this but i couldn’t witness any dramatic change in my dark circles. I was so amazed that after so many boasting and tall product claims, this one didn’t work.

Conclusion – for me this roll on simply didn’t work.

Good about Garnier White complete Eye Roll On

Trustworthy brand
Affordable price
Sleek packaging
Nice concept

Bad about Garnier White complete Eye Roll On

1. Didn’t work
2. False product claims

Rating –
Availability – 5/5
Performance – 1/5

Overall rating – 0.5/5

Editor’s Note: I totally agree with you, have tried this long back and it did absolutely nothing. I used to love the Garnier Tinted Eye Roll On though not coz it did anything for dark circles, but was a perfect daily wear under eye concealer.