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Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack: Boon for Oily Skin?, Indian Beauty Blog, Skincare

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack: Boon for Oily Skin?

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack: Boon for Oily Skin?

Hey guys,

Now I know the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack is already reviewed on the blog by Nidhal few days ago, I wanted to talk more about it, coz the Himalaya Neem Range and I go back a long way 😀

Yes, I have been using the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash and Face Pack since I was in high school and college, basically more than a decade. And as a beauty blogger, I have to try different products and new launches, but I always keep coming back to the Himalaya Herbals Neem range.

Today I am talking about the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack and how I use it.

What it does: Himalaya’s Purifying Neem Pack brings together the goodness of Neem, Fuller’s Earth and Turmeric, which work together to regulate excess oil secretion, clean clogged pores and prevent the recurrence of pimples.

Key ingredients:

Neem is an excellent skin care ingredient known for its antibacterial properties. It improves general skin health and immunity, combating bacterial infections such as acne, boils and ulcers. Neem tackles bacteria from the root and prevents the recurrence of pimples and blemishes.

Turmeric has been used as an antiseptic for centuries. The herb also has strong anti-inflammatory properties which soothe your skin gently. It also makes your skin soft and supple.

Fuller’s Earth is an excellent cleanser. It removes deep-seated dirt and skin pollutants.

Directions: Apply Purifying Neem Pack evenly over cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes and mouth. Let the mask dry for 10-15 minutes, and remove with a wet sponge or towel. Rinse with cool water. For optimal results, use once a week.

Best for oily and pimple-prone skin.

MRP: Rs.70/- for 50g, Rs.130/- for 100g

It comes in the trademark white and green Himalaya Herbals flip cap tube packaging. While you must have already read the review, let me tell you how I use it.

Initially when I was in college, I had acne prone and oily skin due to hormonal changes. And also the break outs during that time of the month were a little severe, I used to use this once a week. Now I cleanse my face first and do not dry it completely but leave it a little damp for the mask to glide on easily. This tube needs to be shaken well before removing the product coz the clay and water sometimes separate. Take three fingers full of the mask, be generous, you need a little extra with this. And apply it all over the damp face and leave it on for about 15 minutes. When it is completely dry, I wet my hands and massage the product on the face and then wash it bit by bit. Another way I used it was, I apply it on and around the break out or acne at night and leave it overnight.

Now since I have normal to combination skin, I use it once in two weeks or sometimes even less, if I don’t break out. But during summers like right now, there are 1-2 months that I do break out coz of the mangoes and heat, that is when I get back to this.

It’s a boon for people with oily skin because the neem and turmeric being antiseptic and anti-bacterial do not let the germs in the acne spread around all over the face and kill them at the base. And in turn will also soothe the skin and let it heal faster. Fuller’s earth will absorb extra oil from the pores and deep cleanse it, so that more oil or acne is not produced.

It also comes in a small sachet form at Rs.15/- for 16g which is good for one time use and to carry for travelling. They also have this new TVC..

I absolutely love the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack and do recommend it.

You can check out Himalaya Herbals on Facebook HERE and on twitter HERE and also more from their Face Care Range HERE

Have you tried the #HimalayaHerbals #PurifyingNeemPack yet? What do you think of it?

The Body Shop British Rose Shower Gel, Body Scrub Review

The Body Shop British Rose Shower Gel, Body Scrub Review

Hi guys,

I have been using The Body Shop British Rose Range Shower Gel and Body Scrub since quite some time now. And here is what I think of it..

The Body Shop British Rose Gel Body Scrub

What the Company claims: Exfoliating feels exquisite with this beautiful gel textured body scrub with real rose petals. Infused with the essence of roses from Britain, it effortlessly melts onto the skin and gently refines to reveal smoother, fresher skin.

– reveals smoother, fresher skin
– fresh dewy gel texture
– with real rose petals
– with the essence of hand-picked british roses

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.1295/- for 250ml

The Body Shop British Rose Shower Gel

What the Company claims: Awaken your skin with the irresistibly dewy scent of roses. Our cleansing Shower Gel is infused with the essence of hand-picked roses from Britain to make showering feel blooming beautiful.

– Soap-free cleanser
– Rose scented and Lather rich
– With the essence of hand-picked British roses

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.450/- for 250ml

First of, I love the entire light pink and black packaging of this range. It looks fabulous, plus the British Rose range is so delicate and fresh.

The body scrub comes in a black tub plastic packaging. It is a gel based scrub just like the Virgin Mojito and Fuji Green Tea Ranges. It has soft brown beads for exfoliation which are walnut shell powder, as per the ingredients. And the base is water based and jelly like with a soft pink tint. The smell is amazing, not at all strong, but feminine and soft.

The scrub particles are not harsh and it leaves the skin gently exfoliated. If you expect hard core exfoliation, then this alone won’t do. I would suggest you use this body scrub with The Body Shop Exfoliating Gloves.

The shower gel comes in a transparent bottle with black flip cap. The bottle is plastic and not heavy. The shower gel is thin and runny and has a light pink tint. I absolutely love the smell of this, this smells more of ‘British Rose’ than the body scrub too. It foams well and washes off well, without leaving the skin dry.

I tried using it without loofah and you end up using a lot and it won’t foam enough. So I suggest using it only with a loofah.

This range also has a Bath Foam (if you have a bath tub at home), Body Butter, Hand Cream, Exfoliating Soap and EDT. EDT sadly was out of stock everywhere. I am definitely looking forward to try the EDT once I get my hands on it.

Overall, I would say, I absolutely love the fresh British Rose smell and this range. It is not at all strong or artificial like usual rose scented products are. You can smell the difference in the first whiff. It is soft, feminine and delicate but refreshing. Although the smell doesn’t stay for long with 1-2 products, it would if you use 3-4 products from the range together i.e. along with the body butter and EDT. Highly recommend this range!

Have you tried The Body Shop British Rose Range? What do you think of it?

Top 5 Yoga Asanas To Get Glowing Skin

Top 5 Yoga Asanas To Get Glowing Skin

By Nidhal

Apart from following a nutritious diet and timely application of herbal packs/masks, there is one more step, which if performed, will complete the entire regimen for getting healthy, radiant and gorgeous skin. It is none other than physical workout. Oh no, do not cower in fear or snap back while giving up. You might be wary of hitting the gym or enrolling in a strenuous workout regimen for a multitude of reasons be it-paucity of time, physical/financial constraints or plain lethargy but that shouldn’t deter you from enjoying the bounties of what physical workout can do to your skin 🙂

All you need is time, patience, grit and a mat. You’re done. How? Take a minute and think what is the West adopting to bring peace of mind while battling the hustle and bustle of their daily lives? Couldn’t surmise? Here you go with one more clue- It originated in India. Got the answer? It’s none other than Y-O- G-A.

Our ancient science of Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that has been prevalent in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism for centuries. So, why practice Yoga and simple, doable asanas at that initially so that we aren’t daunted as we take our first step? On that note, let us have a look at the TOP 5 YOGA ASANAS TO GET GLOWING SKIN 🙂

Tadasana

1. TADA-ASANA- This asana works on one’s muscles so that one’s posture is not only better, but also pain-free while one is at their sedentary desk job. As indicated in the picture, if followed carefully and regularly, Tada-asana helps in improving one’s overall body posture, strengthens thighs and buttocks and improves skin’s texture. Hold this pose for 20-30 seconds each time you do it. Avoid it you have high blood pressure, suffer from insomnia, or have a low blood pressure.

Uktasana

2. UKTA-ASANA- All you have to do is sit on a chair. Easy? Ummm… not really. The chair is hypothetical. That’s it. Make sure your spine is perfectly straight else things go in for a toss. Avoid it if you have a low blood pressure, arthritis, insomnia, chronic knee ache or any issue with your ankle. Hold for 30 seconds each time you do it and then, relax. Begin with 5 sets daily and then, increase its frequency depending on your ease 🙂 It helps to strengthen spine, hips, torso, chest and legs besides toning your muscles in the legs. As a result, the skin look taut and youthful.

Halasana

3. HALA-ASANA- A little challenging but highly advantageous and relaxing (at least I find it so when I do it)if mastered, Hala-asana should be performed after your body has been acquainted with regular physical stretches. It helps to improve the digestive organs, and therefore, improves digestion and regulates appetite. It helps relieve the symptoms of menopause and stimulates the reproductive system. It also brings blood to one’s face thereby increasing oxygen intake thus, imparting radiance. Hold for 30-60 seconds in each set. Avoid it if you are menstruating, have a low blood pressure or any injury in your spine/neck.

Matsyasana

4. MATSYA-ASANA- Also known as the ‘fish pose’, Matsya-asana helps in relieving respiratory problems as it encourages the right kind of breathing. Moreover, it gives the hip flexors and the muscles between the ribs a good stretch. It enables the throat and the digestive organs get a good massage, which rids one off a double chin thus, improving one’s semblance 🙂 Hold on for 30-40 seconds in each set and avoid it if you have high or low blood pressure, suffer from insomnia or have a back injury.

Shirshasana

5. SHIRSH-ASANA- Unarguably, the most challenging asana of all, Shirsh-asana results in blood gushing down to one’s face thereby, increasing oxygen intake and imparting a prepossessing glow. However, please perform this asana under the guidance of a Yoga practitioner after you’ve acclimatised your body to stretches and are able to balance really well. It is small wonder that pimples and wrinkles are often caused by inadequate removal of waste materials and insufficient nourishment from the blood. Shirsh-asana directs an oxygen rich flow of blood to the facial skin thereby improving the facial complexion 🙂 Avoid it if you have back ache, neck injury, low blood pressure or a shoulder injury.

Image Sources: 1,2,3,4,5

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice post Nidhal, I will try some 😀

Do you practice yoga? Tried any of these asanas?

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub Review

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub Review

Hey guys,

I have always been a fan of Himalaya Herbals products, some of them are my Holy Grail and I have been using them since my school and college days i.e. years literally!

Today I am reviewing their Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub.

What it does: Himalaya’s Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub exfoliates dead skin cells to remove impurities that routine cleansing cannot tackle. It contains Crab Apple, a soothing antiseptic and keratolytic agent that helps loosen dead skin fragments. Walnut Shell granules scrub away dirt, blackheads and dead cells, and Wheat Germ Oil is a rich source of natural Vitamin E. These natural ingredients cleanse, nourish and moisturize your skin to make it soft, fresh and radiant.

Key ingredients:

Crab Apple has antiseptic, cooling, soothing, nutritive and keratolytic properties. It reduces skin inflammation and helps remove dead skin fragments. Crab Apple is also a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants which prevent skin cell degeneration and premature skin aging.

Wheat Germ Oil, due to its high concentration of Vitamin E, along with proteins and natural antioxidants, is ideal for most skin types. It is the perfect ingredient for our face scrub as it nourishes the skin and boosts the skin’s elasticity.

The exfoliating micro-particles in Walnut Shell scrub away dirt, blackheads and dead skin cells.

Directions for use: Apply Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub in a circular motion on the face and neck. Wipe off with a moist cotton pad. Rinse with water and pat dry. Use at least once a week for a glowing, healthy complexion.

Suitable for dry to normal skin.

Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub is dermatologically-tested, non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

MRP: Rs.70/- for 50g, Rs. 130/- for 100g

It comes in an easy to carry and use, flip cap tube packaging. It has a slight medicinal smell which can be bothering for a few. I love the creamy base it has. And the walnut shell granules are not too harsh.

How I like to use it is, damp my face a bit, take some product on my fingertips and massage in circular motions all over the face, avoiding the eyes and lips. Go up and down on the nose and sides of the nose and also concentrate on the forehead and chin area, basically wherever you get whiteheads or blackheads.

I usually get more whiteheads and not that many blackheads, that too on my nose, exfoliation helps get rid of whiteheads before they turn into blackheads. If you exfoliate regularly, you can nip whiteheads in the bud and get rid of them. I usually exfoliate once a week coz I have combination skin, but if you have oily skin, exfoliate twice a week.

Since the base of this scrub is very creamy, it helps glide on the skin amazingly well and with ease, especially on damp skin. The granules being mild enough for use on the face too, even people with sensitive skin can use this, but if you have very sensitive skin, I would advise you to go with another Himalaya Herbals scrub and not this one, I would be reviewing that soon.

Also post washing the face, my skin is quite moisturised and does not feel stretchy or crave a moisturiser, thanks to the crab apple and wheatgerm oil in it.

Overall, I would say, like most of my Himalaya Herbals favourites, I like this one too. Totally recommend it for normal to combination and dry skin. I have something else for oily and sensitive skin, from Himalaya Herbals, which I would be reviewing next.

You can check out Himalaya Herbals on Facebook HERE and on twitter HERE

Have you tried the #HimalayaHerbals #GentleExfoliatingWalnutScrub? What do you think of it?

Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash Review

Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash Review

By Nidhal

‘Hypocrite’ is the word that explodes in my mind instantaneously when I see/read/hear people say that they do not care about fairness and then in the very next breath pass a hurtful jibe about someone’s complexion or suggest ‘best skin whitening/lightening products’. It is known fact that we Indians aren’t a fair bunch of people. We are capable of passing the most demeaning of barbs on someone who is not as fair as a Caucasian. Women in particular have since times immemorial have been pressurised and unduly so, to look eye-pleasing round the clock! One of the main reasons why ‘Fair and Lovely’ remains the brand that I always detested was the fact it drew mileage of this obsession of Indians.

It is not a question of whether fair is lovely or not. The point is that fair isn’t what is ONLY lovely. Whenever I see the daft-to- death advert of ‘Fair and Lovely’ with Yami Gautam looking as pale as an LED, I’m provoked to change the channel. But the final nail in the coffin comes when I see my younger cousins with ‘Lovely warm hues’ of skin that soothe eyes desperately surf the net to look for ‘Skin lightening tips’, all I am provoked to do is slap Yami and Fair and Lovely as hard as possible! You brainwashed the coming generations and lulled them into a whirlpool of inferiority complex.

The counter-argument would be that all actress, or at least a great many have at some point in their career endorsed skin whitening products. But it is “Fair and Lovely” that clearly uses ‘Fair’ as well as ‘Lovely’ in one sentence as if they’re synonyms. The corollary to it, will then be ‘Dark and Ugly’,right? That is why, I have always detested this brand. It instills self-doubt, inferiority complex and poor view of oneself if one does not cater to “their’’ view of beauty.

Anyway, let us sweep this issue aside for a minute. After long I tried a product from this brand. Why? Because one of my relatives was seen fiddling with it so, in order to put an end to her naive thoughts about the efficacy of Fair and Lovely, I thought of being a lab rat to let her see for herself. Let us see how it fared.

PRICE –Rs 25/- for 20g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Gently massage on wet face and rinse well.

INGREDIENTS- Made from glycerin, myristic acids, and water, the multi vitamin enriched face wash ensures a brighter and cleaner.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Fair & Lovely fairness face wash gives you the 3 step expert action, which Cleanses, Exfoliates and Massages with Multi Vitamin formula.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a plastic tube with a cap on top, the packaging of Fair and lovely advanced multi-vitamin fairness face wash is fine. It is spillage-free, easy to carry and sturdy. As a result, it is up to the mark in terms of packaging.

The face wash has a creamy texture with a grey colour. Once smeared on one’s wet face, it produces a fine lather. It can worked up easily. However, the smell to me, is way too strong. I have always had an aversion towards the smell of most Fair and Lovely products and this one is no exception. It smells exactly like Fair and Lovely fairness cream. The smell increases a little more while being massaged. After massaging it for 3-4 minutes, as I rinse it, surprise surprise! There is no trace of fairness which was expected. So, to all to those looking at it with sheep’s eyes to whiten themselves, this one thankfully, falls flat on its topmost claim.

My skin is dry and this one sucked moisture all the more from my skin. It does whiten my skin in the sense that my skin becomes very dry and forms hideous white patches to soothe which, I need to apply a liberal dose of a deeply hydrating body butter. Yes a “body” butter!

Then, comes the cherry on the cake. Its ingredients’ list is firstly not even provided in case of the smallest package and when looked up online (on its website), it’s not completely furnished too. The bottom line is that it just a weapon of self-confidence destruction. Chuck it.

GOOD-

1. Readily available. (Sadly, this is a con in my opinion for everyone can lay their hands on something that instills inferiority complex in them)

2. Available in different sizes with the price varying according to the size (This again to me, is a con for people of all economic strata can now avail it hence, feel inferior with what they are born with)

3. Fine packaging

BAD-

1. Stokes in the feeling that dark/dusky/warm skin shade is ugly and it is only fair skin that is lovely and desirable. Highly disgusting!

2. Laden with chemicals. The package that comes in small size does not even mention the ingredients. At least there should be uniformity in such vital aspects.

3. Overly drying in nature. It whitens your face. How? It sucks up all the moisture hence, your skin automatically starts appearing white. Mission accomplished Fair and Lovely, right? NO.

4. Aroma is exactly same as that of its cram which I have always found puke-inducing. This is subjective but to me, the smell is strong and repugnant.

RATING-0/5

Editor’s Note: Totally agree Nidhal, it would be great if some girls read this review before buying such stuff and decide not to! It does absolutely nothing for anyone!

Do not buy the Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash.

Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic Aromatic Skin Toner Review

Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic Aromatic Skin Toner Review

By Monika

Hello everyone!!!

I was on the lookout for a natural, economical skin toner to add to my night routine since I kept reading about the importance of a good CTM routine (cleansing, toning and moisturizing) and the wonders that it can do to your skin if, followed religiously. Out of the toners available in the market aroma magic toner appealed to me the most since, only natural ingredients were used in making this toner and considering the price it seemed like a good bet. So, without further ado I went ahead and purchased my very first toner from Purplle. To know my views on the same continue reading.

Directions for use: Spray onto face directly or on a small piece of cotton and dab onto face. Avoid the eye area. Use me morning and night after cleansing. Follow it up with the oily skin oil.

Ingredients: Aqua, punica granatum juice, glycerol, hamamelis, Virginia leaf water, punica granatum extract, rosmarinus officinalis essential oil, canaga odorata essential oil, lavandula angustifolia essential oil, mentha piperita essential oil.

Claims

  • Free of alcohol, parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, artificial fragrance and color.
  • Cleanses and tones without drying out the skin.
  • Renews the skin cells and increases the circulation in it.
  • Prevents moisture loss.
  • Acts as a natural astringent that calms and balances the skin.
  • Delivers vital nutrients and vitamins to the skin.

Price and quantity: Rs 170 for 200 ml

Shelf life: 3 years from the date of manufacture.

My experience with the product

The product comes in a transparent bottle with a flip cap. Even though, it says on the bottle that one can spray the toner directly onto the face but it is not necessarily possible to do that, with a flip cap. The cap is not that sturdy and is prone to leakage so I wouldn’t recommend carrying it around while travelling. The name suggests that the toner is aromatic but to my dismay it has an extremely mild fragrance and I am not a big fan of it.

The toner has water like consistency so one has to use a cotton pad to apply onto the face. I apply this toner at night on cleansed face especially, avoiding the eye area as said on the bottle because the under eye area being even more sensitive is prone to drying. After applying the toner I leave it on for a few minutes to dry and then, follow it up with a moisturizer. The colorless toner does clean the skin but cannot double up as a makeup remover.

Since, I have oily skin I bought the one meant for the same but, it doesn’t control the oil secretion or reduce breakouts. However, it does tighten the pores and soothes the skin which is fairly good for a toner at this price range. Considering the fact that the product is a bit drying and is meant for oily skin I don’t see any reason why people with dry skin should use this toner.

I would like to conclude by saying that this economical toner doesn’t do much apart from tightening the pores and I would definitely not repurchase this since, I would like to try the new ones in the market and find the one that best suits my skin.

Pros:

  • Tightens pores
  • Calms the skin of any irritation
  • Free of alcohol, parabens and petrochemicals
  • Not tested on animals
  • Easily available
  • Economical

Cons:

  • Not travel friendly
  • Doesn’t control oil secretio
  • Can be a bit drying
  • Extremely mild fragrance (contradictory to the name)

Rating: 3.5/5

Final word

All in all, this toner hasn’t been one of my best buys but, people looking for a decently priced toner can give this a shot and find out how it works for them.

Editor’s Note: Nice Review Monika, I usually like Aroma Magic products, this one seems to be ok. I have tried most of their face packs though, love them.

Have you tried Aroma Magic Aromatic Skin Toner yet? Which is your favourite toner?

Natural Ways to Reduce Cellulite

Natural Ways to Reduce Cellulite

By Shelja

What is cellulite? Cellulite is dimpled skin popularly known as orange peel occurring mostly on thighs, buttocks and stomach area, every women has cellulite so you don’t need to feel embarrassed about it, its completely normal and natural. There are several reasons for cellulite some of the most common reasons include unhealthy eating habits, hereditary, hormonal, genetic factors and lack of exercise. There is no proven way to get rid of cellulite completely, however the tips given below will help you to reduce it. Keep reading!

1. Eat healthy : Diet plays an important role, the fat you consume will be stored in your body as cellulite, consuming clean healthy food will help you to stay fit, foods like grains contains fibber which will help you to remove waste and toxins from the intestine also shedding off cellulite stored as fat in your body. Along with this drink plenty of water as consuming water will also remove toxins and excess fat from the body.

2. Workout : Cellulite is a very stubborn fat, you have to understand that it will take time to get rid of it, however to speed it up it’s important to do cardio as often as you can. As cellulite is nothing but stored fat, burning those fat through cardio and leg exercises would be a wise decision.

3. Exfoliate : Exfoliating helps to promote blood circulation and sheds off dead skin cells, to see visible results it’s advised to use a coarse exfoliator before showers every day. If your skin is too sensitive give it one day rest so that your skin is repaired.

4. Massage : Massaging enhances the blood circulation in the body and provide oxygen to the cells, it helps the body to reduce cellulite in its own natural way. You can massage it with grapefruit essential oil, hazelnut essential oil or jojoba oil. Add 3 to 4 drops of the essential oil of your choice to a tablespoon of almond oil and rub and massage into your skin for a hydrated and firmer appearance. Do this every day for best outcomes.

5. Dry brushing : Massage your skin for a minute before you start dry brushing. Use a soft bristled brush, apply few drops of oil on the affected area then brush in small circular motions directed towards the heart until the skin sucks up all of the oil or till your skin turns red. Repeat the procedure every day to see visible results.

6. Use coffee grounds : Caffeine breaks up the fat deposits as you massage into the skin. It also tightens your skin making it firm. Drinking coffee daily will also help to eliminate fat. Prepare a wrap with coffee and olive oil mixture, heat one-half cup of coffee grounds and a little extra-virgin olive oil in the microwave for 20 seconds. Spread the warm mixture on the cellulite and cover it with plastic wrap. Leave it on for 30 minutes, and then rinse it off with Luke warm mixture. Repeat this 3 times a week to see visible results.

7. Anti cellulite cream : There are many creams targeted for cellulite, below is the list of best cellulite creams available.

  • bliss fat girl sleep
  • Clarins high definition body lift
  • bliss fat girl slim
  • Tarte celluFIGHT
  • L’Occitane – Almond Beautiful shape

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

How to Get Rid of Back Acne?

How to Get Rid of Back Acne?

By Shelja

Summers are full of adventure, beaches and sweat. Sure we all love summer holidays and other stuff but there is something which I hate about summers, The back acne! As summers are sweaty I end up with these crazy acne all over my back and forearms, Thank God I am not the only one facing it, the good news is, it can vanished! Every year in forced to keep a check on the tips given below to keep my back free from acne. Keep reading to know more!

1. Salicylic wash : Salicylic acid is popularly advised by dermatologist for acne and pimple prone skin, it is also know for its deep cleansing and rejuvenation properties, it also provides exfoliation and reduces dark spots caused by acne. Using salicylic acid on your back twice daily can have visible effects.

2. Benzoyl peroxide : This is a another strong ingredient to use on your back acne, as it dries off the skin it’s not recommended to use on your face without your dermatologist advice. If your using a benzoyl peroxide wash let it stay for atleast a minute befor you wash it off. Using a lotion of benzoyl peroxide over your back after the shower will get you faster results.

3. Keep it clean : if you notice back acne mostly occur during summers, sweat is also one of the many reasons for your back acne, shower right after you sweat, after gym or before bed.

4. Retino A : Retino A cream is used for acne and pimple treatment, it is also used for further prevention, you may notice some skin shedding within few days but that’s a normal process as it sheds off the old skin at the same time promotes growth of new skin cells. It also works good for wrinkles, age spots and skin lightening.

5. Don’t re-use worn clothes : Dirty clothes can cause clogged pores and thus causing acne, the best way is to wash your bra and tops after one use, especially during summers when you sweat the most.

6. Apply sunscreen : If your skin has acne scars sun can be your biggest enemy. As sun can make your acne marks last longer. The best way is to wear clothes which covers your acne area. use a oil free suncreen lotion over your back 20min prior of sun exposure. Sunscreen also helps to save your skin from unwanted tan and early signs of ageing.

Editor’s Note: Agree with all these points Shelja, well written. I do get it in summers sometimes.

Image sources : 1,2,3

Do you have back acne? How do you deal with it?

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack Review

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack Review

By Nidhal

If you have ever had the displeasure or ill-fate of eating it, chances are your face would have turned into the most hideous possible contortions for it is bitter beyond description! It is that ingredient which Grannies have coaxed us into chewing as kids and teens and then, we would pretend to gulp it down while waiting anxiously to look for a basin to spit it out. God forbid if she’d catch us red- handed spitting it, she’d shove double the quantity of those leaves in our mouth (at least mine did) to help us “fight infections and skin problems” (as per her). She, without an iota of doubt was right for Neem (yes, do not twist your face in disgust) indeed is a storehouse of benefits. Neem has antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties that not only benefit your health but also can help you get rid of common beauty problems.

Today, I will review a product that has neem as its core ingredient and it is none other than HIMALAYA HERBALS PURIFYING NEEM PACK. Let us see if this deserves a place in our beauty armoury or is an ‘All sizzle no steak’ 

PRICE –Rs 130/- for 100g (BUY HERE)

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Apply evenly over cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes. Allow to dry for around 10-15 minutes. Remove with a wet sponge and wash with cool water. Use once/twice a week. Do not apply on inflamed or broken skin.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS- Neem is an excellent skin care ingredient known for its antibacterial properties. It improves general skin health and immunity, combating bacterial infections such as acne, boils and ulcers. Neem tackles bacteria from the root and prevents the recurrence of pimples and blemishes. Turmeric has been used as an antiseptic for centuries. The herb also has strong anti-inflammatory properties which soothe your skin gently. It also makes your skin soft and supple. Fuller’s Earth is an excellent cleanser. It removes deep-seated dirt and skin pollutants.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Himalaya’s Purifying Neem Pack brings together the goodness of Neem, Fuller’s Earth and Turmeric, which work together to regulate excess oil secretion, clean clogged pores and prevent the recurrence of pimples.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Himalaya herbals purifying neem face pack comes packed in a simple plastic tube with a flip-top cap. The cap does not lose its grip overtime and sturdy enough to avert leakage/spillage. Overall, as far as packaging is concerned, I find it up to the mark and there is no need to revamp it unless a novel feature is added (which does not mean ‘Change the colour/illustration on the package because there is no novel ‘feature’ in that).

The pack has a slightly thick texture. It has a brown tinge which doesn’t leave the colour on your face thankfully when you wash it off. Once applied, it imparts a cooling sensation and that is music to one’s ears given how blistering summers in India are. It takes 5-7 minutes to dry (my skin type is dry. Duration may vary slightly) and washing it off too, is a cakewalk. It imparts a squeaky clean look and a little glow too but it renders my skin all the more dry. Because of its drying nature, I won’t recommend it to ladies with dry skin. Steer clear off it. It did warn you beforehand by printing “For Normal to oily skin” on its package in the first place so, neither you nor I can pin the blame on it squarely. I can’t comment on its ability to soak up excess oil because my skin type, as you know by now, is dry.

However, I asked two ladies from my family to try this to form a clear idea about its performance. My mother has normal skin while my cousin has oily (not excessively oily) skin. For my mother, the results were the same and she was satisfied with it. But it was my cousin who went gaga over it for this mask soaked excess oil off her. The fact that it is handy spells cheer for her.

All in all,I can say is that it imparts a clear look and glow. However, the glow is transient so please have realistic expectations. Given the fact that is pumped with parabens and DMDM Hydantion (list of inactives), I don’t find developing a hang of it a wise idea for any one. To sum up, it is efficacious but meant to be used sparingly 

GOOD-

1. Readily available

2. Economical price

3. Sturdy packaging

4. Imparts a squeaky clean look

5. Adds a subtle glow (it is temporary however)

6. Works wonders for oily/extremely oily skin

BAD-

1. Not suitable at all for dry/extremely dry skin

2. Chemical-laden. Contains parabens and DMDM Hydantion

RATING- 4/5

Editor’s Note: I totally agree with you Nidhal, not for dry skin. I have combination skin which was more towards the oily side during my teens and I have used this a lot! Absolutely loved it, the fuller’s earth would absorb the oil and clear & tighten the pores while the neem and turmeric helped calm down acne or avoid breakouts. My brother who has super oily skin, also loved using it 😀 However the Neem face wash from this same Himalaya range is my HG, and I come back to it always! Can blindly trust that.

Have you tried the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack? It’s a must try if you have oily, acne prone skin.

Khadi Herbal Body Wash Rose and Honey Review

Khadi Herbal Body Wash Rose and Honey Review

By Monika

Hi to all the lovely people out there!!!!! This is my first time writing a beauty blog so do let me know in the comments below whether you find this review helpful or not .I was looking for a good, herbal and economical body wash for daily usage and that is when this product comes into picture which, I bought on one of my online purchases. This product has made me love khadi products even more so; to know more about the product and my opinion on it continue reading.

Price and quantity: Rs 130 for 210 ml (BUY HERE)

Shelf life: 2 years from the date of manufacture

Product claims: Khadi rose and honey body wash indulges your senses with beautiful soap-free cleansing gel that will leave your skin feeling cleansed, refreshed and soft with a whisper of beautiful rose fragrance.

Directions for use: Apply to wet skin all over the body. Lather and rinse. Use daily if required.

Ingredients: Water, geranium oil, aloe vera, rose centifolia, ananas cosmosus, crocus sativus, azadircta, honey, base qs.

My experience with the product

The product comes in a transparent bottle through which you can see the lovely pink color of the gel. It has a sturdy flip cap that prevents leakage which makes the product extremely travel friendly. The packaging is common to all the khadi body washes in the market. I must say that, I am more of a shower gel person rather than soap and given the price it is a steal. The product has a pleasant smell of roses which dies down within minutes after you come out of the shower that according to me is a major drawback since; I expected the pleasant smell of roses to last a lot longer. The wash lathers very well and only a coin sized amount is required if used it with a loofah, rinsing off isn’t problem as well. Also, the cleansing action of the wash is very good, leaving the skin soft and supple. I personally would recommend using this wash with a loofah as it would make sure that you do not use excess of the wash and will last a lot longer. It has a gel like consistency and in my opinion would be suitable to all skin types. The gel based formulation is neither moisturizing nor drying and you may want to use a moisturizer depending on the climate. I would like to conclude by saying that, if you are looking a good wash for regular usage which is economical then it sure is a great buy ignoring the longevity of the fragrance.

Pros:

  • Cleanses well
  • Decently priced
  • Travel friendly
  • Great for regular usage
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Easily available (prefer buying it online as you can get some great discounts on this product, which I did)
  • Natural ingredients

Cons:

  • The fragrance does not last for a long time
  • It is not moisturizing so have to use a moisturizer after the bath which in my opinion you should anyways be doing.
  • Generic packaging

Rating: 4.5/5

Final word:

I would like to recommend this product to all you beauties, since it does its job pretty well without burning a hole in your pocket and would last a long time. I love it so much so that I have already restocked on the product.

Editor’s Note: This sounds quite good Monika, nicely reviewed 🙂 I will definitely try this.

Have you tried the Khadi Herbal Body Wash Rose and Honey?