Tag Archives: Skincare

Himalaya Herbals Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask Review

Himalaya Herbals Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask Review

Hi guys,

If you follow me on social media, you would have seen this summer kit I got from Himalaya Herbals few days ago including this Orange Peel-Off Mask. I have used something like that ages ago, so I was quite excited to try it again as peel-off masks are fun! 😀

So here are my thoughts on it..

Himalaya Herbals Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask Review

Claims: Himalaya Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask is an effective blend of the natural skin lightening extracts of Orange Peel and Honey which help reduce skin tan from the very first use. Orange Peel works to control melanin synthesis with the peeling action helping to remove skin tan and lightening the skin tone. Honey soothes and moisturizes skin.

Key ingredients:

Orange Peel effectively lightens skin tone and can be very beneficial as it eliminates excess facial oil without damaging the skin. The Vitamin C and antioxidants present in Orange Peel work collectively to provide even-textured skin while acting as natural cleansers.

Honey contains superior antibacterial, probiotic, and healing properties and is extremely nourishing and hydrating.

Directions for use: Apply Himalaya Tan Removal Orange Peel-Off Mask evenly over cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes. Allow the mask to dry for 10-15 minutes. Gently remove the peel from the side of the face. Use once or twice a week, based on skin type. Do not apply on broken or inflamed skin.

A patch test is recommended before using on the face for the first time. Apply the mask in a 2×2 cm area on the inside of the hand below the wrist 24 hours before facial application. Follow the directions for use to ensure skin tolerance.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.130/- for 100g (Buy HERE)

It comes in a standard Himalaya Herbals white tube packaging with a green flip cap. The smaller 50g tube is very handy and travel friendly.

It has a prominent orange citrusy smell and looks and feels like a gel. Though it is slightly tacky and dries pretty fast, so be quick in application. You need a very thin layer and it glides on the skin easily.

It dries completely in about 10-15 minutes (thin layer 10 minutes, a little thick 15 minutes), and then comes the fun peeling part. Be mindful of the mask completely drying or else it won’t peel off.

Orange peel is full of Vitamin C which not helps in giving healthy, plump skin but also helps in fading scars with time and evening out the skin. Honey is anti-bacterial, so helps against acne and also moisturizes the skin. The peel-off action basically removes all dead skin cells, and hence with gradual use, removes tan.

Also peeling off helps in blood circulation on the face coz of slight stretch and that gives a nice flush/glow on the skin.

Skin feels fresh, glowing but matte, post the mask. It does not crave moisturizer.

I love using peel-off masks and currently enjoying this. It will help in getting rid of tan with regular use i.e. about twice a week. Recommend this 🙂

Have you tried any peel-off masks? Which is your favourite?

Grab these spices from your kitchen to whip skin recipes

Grab these spices from your kitchen to whip skin recipes

By Nidhal

“What goes on your skin, goes in your skin” is the mantra that we Indians swear by when it comes to skin care. Naturally, we believe in ‘feeding’ in our skin. And since nutrition is best derived in its unprocessed, raw and virgin state from nature with minimal processing, it is small wonder that we Indians nourish our skin to the bounties of nuts, fruits, herbs and everything natural!

On that note, let’s give all Non-Indians a sneak-peak into the spices that Indians incorporate into their skin care regimen. Sounds a good idea or should we better keep our treasure trove well-guarded? Let us be benevolent for a moment and spill the beans today.

1. TURMERIC- I am pretty sure there’d be hardly any Indian mother who wouldn’t have prepared/recommended/forcefully slapped a mask predominantly yellow in colour on their kid’s face while the poor child would’ve either succumbed to her persuasion or hid himself/herself to avoid being daubed that weird-looking and (apparently) unpleasant-smelling mask. Ask any Indian mother on the virtues of turmeric and brace yourself for information will flow at a pace that even Google would hide in shame!

Let me summarize why turmeric is our go-to spice. Turmeric helps one bid adieu to skin hazards such as acne, wrinkles, fine-lines and imparts a bright skin tone. Face packs made up of turmeric not only help to clear acne scars and inflammation, but also diminish excessive oil secretion by the sebaceous glands. It should then not come as a surprise that, Hindu weddings have a ceremony devoted to haldi application in order to impart a winsome glow to the bride as well as groom’s face.

A word of caution from my side. Please use either Amba Haldi or kasthoori manjal/haldi only for skin care. They are exclusively meant for skin care. The one in your masala daani is meant for pakoras not packs. Kasthoori haldi/manjal (whatever you prefer to call it) can be easily purchased online. I would recommend Dhathri’s Kasthoori manjal that is, priced at 25 INR for 50 grams.

2. CLOVES- In order to incorporate cloves in one’s beauty regimen, one has to invest in clove oil for that is how its bounties are harnessed. Clove is highly potent for obviating acne and removal of scars left by the same. It is to be applied topically to the affected areas. It is often blended with face packs or massage creams for application on the skin. It gives a tingling sensation when applied. The reason behind this tingling sensation is the potent nature of clove oil.

Skin woes, such as blackheads, whiteheads, scarring, pimples and scaly skin are signs that characterize the skin ailment known as acne. Acne commonly happens during adolescence due to hormonal imbalance. So, if you’re pestered by acne, ditch those over-the- counter medicines and invest in an organic brand of clove oil or you can crush some cloves, add a heaped tbsp. of besan and rose water and voila! Bid adieu to this pesky skin woe!

3. CINNAMON- Next comes the saviour of acne-prone skin. It is tingling but boy, it is effective to the hilt. Cinnamon (Dalchini in Hindi) delivers fantastically when it comes to speeding blood circulation which makes your skin breathe thereby removing acne. This is done by drying the skin and bringing blood and oxygen to the outer skin surface. Thanks to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, cinnamon helps enhance one’s complexion.

However, please always use only a pinch (one-eighth a tbsp.) of cinnamon as a little over that can sting your skin excruciatingly. Personal experience corroborates this. So, do not go overboard 🙂 Just add a pinch of it to all your face masks and you will be good to go.

4. GINGER- Being a potent antiseptic and cleansing agent, ginger helps in keeping the skin clean, smooth and free of blemishes. Besides that, it also invigorates and stimulates one’s skin. It is the best natural acne-fighting weapon as it minimizes the rate of acne formation and eruption by killing and clearing the acne-causing bacteria. Acne-prone ladies, did I see your eyes dilate on discovering the perfect weapon to kick away those acne scars?

The next time you go grocery shopping, you have your reasons to add ginger to your shopping cart, right? Do not just brew it in your tea, let your skin savour its virtues externally too 🙂

5. SAFFRON- Now, comes the spice from the Northern corner of our country which we fondly call ‘Heaven on Earth’- Kashmir. Although this spice is going to be a bit straining for your pockets, yet its beauty benefits will compel you to turn a blind eye to its price at least once. Okay, enough of this ‘Guess my name’ game.

The spice I am talking about is kesar and this is an elixir for our skin. Is there seriously anything that this wonder spice doesn’t do? From imparting an enviable glow to one’s complexion to treating acne, blemishes and blackheads thanks to its anti-fungal content, from softening skin to making it supple, this spice is a must-have (at least 1 gm) in our beauty stashes.

Feel free to add 2-3 strands of it in whichever pack you whip. Let it stay undisturbed for half an hour and once the colour changes to yellow, it is a prefigure to not only slather it on your skin but also that you have bought authentic saffron.

Image Source: 1,2,3

Editor’s Note: Loved this post Nidhal. Have used Cinnamon, turmeric and honey a lot!

Do you use these spices for DIY skincare recipes?

Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum Review

Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum Review

By Archana

Hi all,

If you had read my previous post, you would know that I have recently started with an anti- ageing skin care routine with Biotique products. The set consists of a serum, day cream, night cream and sunscreen lotion. After 3 weeks of using it, am ready with my report and scorecard. Today, I will be reviewing the serum – Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum. Read on to know how well it fares.

Products claims: Dandelion is a rejuvenating herbaceous plant known for its ageless properties. This lightening serum is a rare combination of pure dandelion, rich in Vitamin E and minerals, blended with nutmeg oil. Used regularly, it helps brighten skin, fade dark spots and ease away wrinkles for a flawless complexion.

Ingredients: Bihidana Seeds – 10%, Halon (Chansaur) Seeds – 1.5%, Jaiphal Oil – 0.5%, Badam oil – 1%, Surajmukhi oil – 3%, Khamir powder – 8%, Doodhal (Dandelion) Root – 0.2%, Beeswax – 2.5%, Groundnut Oil – 4.5%, Purified Water Q.S.

Directions to use: Massage a few drops into cleansed face and neck, before moisturizer, morning and evening.

Packaging:

The serum comes in a tiny translucent plastic bottle with green screw-on lid. On opening there is a tiny hole for dispensing the product. The bottle is housed inside an outside carton which has all the products details on it. For travel purpose, you can just chuck the carton as it is bulky and take only the compact bottle with you.

Texture and fragrance:

The serum is white in color, water-based and gel like with a smooth consistency. It has a faint herbal smell which is not strong and won’t bother sensitive noses.

My experience:

I have been using the serum for the past three weeks. Arounds 3-4 drops is needed to cover the entire face and neck. Being water based, it is very light and gets absorbed quickly without any greasiness or stickiness. Like all serums, you need to follow up with a moisturizer. For the first week, I didn't observe any major difference. Biotique products are based on ayurvedic formulations which take time and continued usage to show results. I have seen many people skip on Biotique products because the results were not quick enough. But ayurvedic products contain natural ingredients which take time to show effects, but the results are long lasting and harmless in the long run.

After the second week, I could see visible lightening of my skin. My tan was removed and it evened out my skin tone. I had few dark spots and acne scars. I could see them lightening too. But not faded completely. I might need to use another bottle or two for it to completely fade.

The serum also revitalised my skin and it looked plumper and healthy. There was a slight glow on my face. My pores were also more refined as I initially suffered from large pores. It helps to tighten and firm skin.

The bottle has finished in three weeks. Am going to repurchase this again to see continued results. If you ask me, this is one of the most affordable serums in the market. And its also organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free. You just need to be patient with the results.

Pros:

* Light and non-sticky. Gets absorbed easily.

* Suitable for all skin types.

* Lightens and evens out skin tone.

* Works on fading dark spots.

* Revitalizes skin and makes it look plumper and healthy.

* Gives a subtle glow.

* Tightens pores and firms skin.

* Affordable.

* Organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free.

* Compact packaging.

Cons:

* Doesn’t work on wrinkles as claimed. I had a few fine lines on my forehead and they haven’t improved. Maybe continuous usage is required.

Price and quantity: Rs.230 for 40ml.

Rating: 4.8/5

Verdict: Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum is one of the most affordable and effective serums available in the market. Considering the fact that it is made of ayurvedic formulations, is organically pure, preservative free and cruelty free, what more can one ask for. I would definitely recommend this serum for healthy, clear, bright and glowing skin.

Editor’s Note: This sounds really good, I would give it a try sometime.

Have you tried the Biotique Bio Dandelion Ageless Lightening Serum?

Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser Review

Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser Review

By Pallavi

Hiii Beauties,

As you all might know till now that I am a skin care junkie. I like investing in skin care products. But what you don’t know about me is that I am a bath junkie too. I love bathing and thus investing in bathing products is a must for me. And that is the major reason why I shifted to shower gels and bathing gels years ago. Till date I always buy lots of shower gels. Both from drugstore and high end or luxury brands.

And trust me many of you might think that shower gels are a bit expensive. But no they are not. A bottle of shower gel lasts for at least 2-3 months. And that way you can understand that shower gels lasts quite long and are cost effective??? So, till date I have used a number of shower gels. This time I thought of why not trying with body cleansers and thus here follows the review of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser.

Product Claims: A wonderful shower gel with Pure Essential Oils of Lavender, Patchouli and herbal extracts. Lavender relaxes the body and Patchouli cleanses and purifies. Aloe Vera nourishes and Sugar adds glow to the skin.

Price for Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser: INR 595 for 200ml (Buy HERE)

My Views:

Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser comes in a long, slender plastic bottle which is transparent. You can easily see the amount of product which is left inside. The jar has a cap opening which is quite easy to use. The jar has the packaging quantity, claims, and ingredients written all over it which is quite informative for the customers.

The shower gel is of runny consistency. That is why it tends to spill out from the bottle so you need to take care while storing it. The shower gel is of light green colour and it smells of lavender but the smell is not very strong and disappears as soon as you spread it on your body. When you dispense the shower gel on loofah, you don’t need much water to dilute it and it foams easily on your body. The shower gel is very gentle on the skin.

Also, you require a very little amount per usage. So, a single bottle will last you easily 2-3 months.

Now, let me tell you how I use this body cleanser on my body. I take out a bit of cleanser on your loofah. Wet the loofah before the body cleanser. Now, apply the cleanser all over your body. Rinse it with normal water after some time.

Coming to the after effects of the shower gel, it is not at all drying on skin. Normal to oily skin types will not require a moisturizer after this. Even the dry skinned people can easily skip a body lotion in summers. But for winters dry skin people will need a heavy body lotion post usage of this body cleanser.

For dry skinned people like me this shower gel is a total thumbs up. I love shower gels which are gentle and not drying on skin. So, that I can easily skip my body lotions at least in summers. And this one is perfect for that.

Pros of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser

1. Trustworthy brand

2. Travel friendly size available

3. Easy to use

4. Moisturising on skin

5. Cleanses the body thoroughly

Cons of Kama Ayurveda Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser

1.  Slightly pricey

Rating: 5/5

Last Thoughts: Every skin type can use it in summers but in winters dry to combination skin types will require body moisturiser.

Editor’s Note: I love lavender and have tried almost all lavender based body wash/cleansers 😀 I am definitely trying this!

Have you tried Kama Lavender Patchouli Body Cleanser yet?

How To Do A Simple Face Clean-Up At Home

How To Do A Simple Face Clean-Up At Home

Hi guys,

I don’t generally go to salons for facials and clean ups, I prefer taking care of my skin at home and follow the basic skin care routine regularly. If you spend even 5-10 minutes on your skin daily and the scrub/mask routine once/twice a week, you won’t need any fancy or expensive salon facials/clean ups.

Now a clean-up is important coz sometimes the blackheads and whiteheads are not really visible but they do develop when the pores are blocked or there is dirt in the pores which is not cleaned regularly.

Here is how I do a mini clean-up at home:

1. Wash your face with a face wash. My Holy Grail is the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem face wash.

2. Cleanse your face with a milk based cleanser. Now there are quite a few options available, you can also try the Himalaya Herbals Refreshing Cleansing Milk. Massage for a minute to two and wipe it off with a damp cotton ball

3. Take steam on the face. If you don’t have a steam machine, just boil some water and bend your face over it covering with a towel. It will do the job equally well.

4. Extract comedones, either use cotton on both of your hands to press the skin and extract it or use a blackhead extractor for deep rooted blackheads. You get it for about 50-60 rupees. Just sanitise and clean it before using and even after using.

5. Scrub your face. I use the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Scrub when I am breaking out or have 1-2 acne or the Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub if my skin is a little dry or in winters. Scrub for a good 2-3 minutes concentrating more on nose, forehead, chin, sides of nose, etc. Wipe it all off with a damp cotton ball.

6. Toner. You can either use rose water or cucumber water or any alcohol free toner to close the pores. It is very important to close the pores which have opened with the steam.

7. Follow it up with a face pack. Now again I would go with either the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack if I have acne or the Himalaya Herbals Fairness Kesar Face Pack if I want to get rid of tan. Keep it for 10-15 minutes and also use cotton balls soaked in rose water over the eyes and just relax. Take it all off with a damp cotton ball. Wash your face with water if you feel like.

8. Moisturize your face with your regular moisturizer.

9. Apply a sunscreen/sunblock

That’s it, you are done. This whole procedure will take about 30 minutes including the face pack. You can do it once a week on a Saturday or Sunday, you can spend at least 30 minutes in a week over your skin, if not, once in two weeks is a must! Also if you do not do it regularly, the whiteheads and blackheads will not be extracted, the skin won’t be exfoliated. Dead skin cells will form a layer and the blackheads will turn to acne.

Regular skin care is important even if you have good skin, to maintain it. Do not take your skin for granted. Your skin gets regenerated every 21 days, so at least follow this simple clean-up at home once every 2 weeks i.e. 14 days.

Few points to remember:

1. Always use products according to your skin type or how your skin is behaving during that time.

2. Do not be harsh on your skin, do not scrub vigorously or over exfoliate.

3. Always end with a sun block/sunscreen even if you are not stepping out

There are a lot of products available in the market if you do not have extra time to DIY at home. I like Himalaya Herbals products and have been using them since my college days. They are affordable and easily available.

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

How do you do a clean-up at home?

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, Astringent Toner Review

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, Astringent Toner Review

Hi guys.

If you follow me on Snapchat or Instagram, you must have seen both these products as a part of my skincare routine. I have been testing these out since a few weeks and here are my thoughts..

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo + Acne Treatment

Claims: Fresh gel-cream, 24hr hydratation and long lasting mattity. Absorbs quickly for a non-sticky, non-oily finish.

Indication :Imperfection-prone skin, clogged pores, excess sebum.

Properties : Complete care with reinforced anti-imperfection efficacy, thanks to Procerad™, an exclusive anti-marks active ingredient.

Non comedogenic , Hypoallergenic, No paraben

Nickel-tested (developed for people who are sensitive to nickel.

Result :

After 24 hours:imperfections look visibly less red*.

After 8 days: localised imperfections appear significantly reduced*.

After 4 weeks: pores look unclogged, skin texture looks refined. Controls the appearance of shine**.

Efficacy : Active ingredient innovation: anti-red and brown marks efficacy.

PROCERAD™ A patented ceramide helps protect against the appearance of red or brown marks.

This new active ingredient strengthens the anti-imperfection performance of the current active ingredients:

1. NIACINAMIDE The reference anti-inflammatory active ingredient for intensive soothing.
2. PIROCTONE OLAMINE To combat bacterial proliferation.
3. LHA AND SALICYLIC ACID For their complementary keratolytic actions.
4. TARGETED LINOLEIC ACID To regulate keratinocytes, plus target the follicle.

Ingredients:

How to use product: Apply to whole face morning and/or evening after cleansing skin with EFFACLAR FOAMING GEL. Excellent make-up base.

MRP: Rs.1350/- for 40ml (Buy HERE)

Now this is a much raved about product and I got it at the right time when I was having some whiteheads and small zits all around the nose.

I love the easy, travel friendly tube packaging and the nozzle dispensor just dispenses the right amount of product. You don’t need too much with it.

This does have sort of a medicinal smell, you can smell the salicylic acid. It’s a white colored gel-creme and is very light weight and water based. You need a tiny, pea sized amount per application and it gets absorbed in a jiffy.

This does not tingle or burn and  all the white heads are gone in a day and if there are zits, they are considerably smaller in size. There is no redness or irritation around the zit.

I love the fact that it has salicylic acid and LHA which not only fight the bacteria and spread the germs from spreading, it gently micro exfoliates the skin and the niacinamide reduced the inflammation and redness and also helps in healing the skin and not leaving behind a mark of the zit.

As mentioned, you can see the difference in a day and week and with prolong use over a month, your pore size will be a little reduced, your pores will be cleaner and there will be hardly any breakouts. If at all you breakout, it will heal and settle much quicker.

You can even use this a spot treatment only on the zits.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Micro-Exfoliant Toner

Claims: Effaclar Clarifying Lotion helps to eliminate remaining excess oil, unblock pores and visibly reduce their size. Contains LHA’s (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid).

Indications : Oily, imperfection and blemish-prone skin. Irregular skin texture. Suitable for sensitive skin.

Properties : Used after washing, this product helps to eliminate remaining excess oil, unblock pores and visibly reduce their size. Contains LHA’s (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid).

Result / Proof : The pores are tightened, the skin texture is finer and more even.

Efficacy / Action : Astringent micro-exfoliating lotion helps instantaneously reduce pore size and fight against blockage, thanks to the combination of sebum-regulating and purifying ingredients as well as micro-exfoliating LHA.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.1190/- for 200ml (Buy HERE)

It comes in a long, slender transparent bottle and the liquid is watery with a slight blue tint. It has a strong acidic smell though.

I usually take some on a cotton ball after cleansing and apply it all over the face. Now you can smell the toner and also the eyes would burn a bit for a second. If there are any fresh zits or breakouts, it will tingle for a minute.

Even though they mention it is suitable for sensitive skin, I would advise doing a patch test first coz I feel it will be a little strong for sensitive skin.

It definitely does tighten and cleanse the pores and the pore size appears reduced over a period of time. It controls excessive oil secretion and balances the skin.

It works amazingly well in combination with the effaclar duo, especially if you have oily, acne prone skin.

Both the products are slightly on the expensive side but they do give results! If you have acne prone skin and you get breakouts often, then this range is totally worth the money for you.

If you do not break out as often like me, I would still advise having these in your stash, to use on days when you break out. I am not using this currently as my skin is clear right now, but I am going to get back to it again when I break out, that is once in few weeks.

I totally recommend having these two in your stash or as a part of your skin care regime depending on your skin type. If I have to recommend one, definitely the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, it is totally worth the hype!

Have you tried the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo? And the new toner?

YesStyle.com Unboxing: Korean Skincare & Makeup

YesStyle.com Unboxing: Korean Skincare & Makeup

Hi guys,

I am a big fan of Korean brands when it comes to skincare & makeup. Their makeup has super cute packaging and pigmented and bright, pretty shades! Also their skincare is fabulous, they follow extensive routines and an average Korean girl uses 14-16 products in the morning & night separately! Can say looking at their clear, translucent skin!

I got a box full of Korean skincare & makeup products from Yesstyle.com. Yesstyle stocks all Korean brands from Missha, Etude House, The Face Shop, Innisfree, Laneige, Tony Moly,etc. It also has Japanese brands like Shu Uemura, SK-II, Canmake, etc. And not only just beauty, it has fashion items from clothing, shoes, bags, accessories to basically everything. You will be hooked onto the site for hours!

Let’s look into the products I got, I got Top 10 Best-Selling Must Try products of 2016. They have a separate Top 10 Must try products category and all these products are listed there, go HERE

  • Berrisom Oops My Lip Tint Lovely Peach
  • Tony Moly I’m Real Mask Sheet 1pc- Rice
  • Beauty People 10 Seconds Auto Pencil Eyeliner Diamond Brown
  • Berrisom Oops Tint Cheek Cushion Sugar Pink
  • TOSOWOONG Blackhead & Sebum Out Nose Pack 8pcs
  • Laneige Lip Sleeping Pack 20g
  • MACQUEEN Creamy Lip & Cheek Tint (#01 Light Pink)
  • Etude House Collagen Eye Patch
  • Etude House Precious Mineral BB Cream Cover & Bright Fit SPF30 PA++
  • Etude House Color My Brow 9ml

All the products are pretty interesting. I have already tried the Berrisom Oops My Lip Tint Peel Off in Lovely Peach and also recorded a video, that will be coming soon. Subscribe to my channel to stay notified.

I have tried the Etude House BB Cream before, it was in a different packaging then, read HERE. Or if this is a different variant, I am not really sure coz the name is the same. I absolutely loved that BB Cream and I would so glad if it’s the same one and the same shade.

Also excited to try the Blackhead nose pack and eye patch. My lips need the sleeping pack/mask as they are in a very dry state right now :/ I am glad I got this at the right moment.

Also both the Macqueen Creamy Lip & Cheek Tint & the Berrisom Oops Cheek Tint are soft mauve pink and everyday shades which I am looking forward to try.

I was looking for a brow mascara since a long time and the Etude House Color My Brow in Brown is just perfect. And also the Diamond brown eyeliner. Also have tried many sheet masks but I don’t think I have tried one from Tony Moly, so would try that soon. You can follow me on Snapchat (@bhumika_t) for mini reviews, pictures, experiences 😀 I share it all.

Overall I am quite happy with all the stuff and excited to try most of these 😀

Have you tried anything from Yesstyle.com? Do you like Korean skincare & makeup?

Fabindia Tea Tree Essential Oil Review

Fabindia Tea Tree Essential Oil Review

By Monika

Hello everyone!!

I was on the lookout for a good product to treat acne since a long time and that is when, I read about how tea tree oil works wonders for acne. My main concern, was deciding whether to buy the Fabindia one or The Body Shop one but, I came to the conclusion that I’ll buy the fabindia one given that, I’ll have to shell out only half the amount .So without further ado, I headed straight to the fabindia store and bought myself the tea tree oil which is supposedly to work wonders for acne as well dandruff the latter not being a major problem in my case.. To know more about my experience with the product read on.

Price and quantity: Rs. 350 for 10 ml

What the product claims: This oil helps combat dandruff and acne. Fumes help in easing nasal congestion

Ingredients: Tea tree essential oil.

My views on the product

The product comes in a dark blue colored glass bottle with a screw cap which, has a dropper inside that makes sure that, you use the product sparingly which is very important in case of essential oils. I wouldn’t carry the product around as; I would have the constant fear of breaking it. I apply a few drops of the oil with a Q tip at night only on my acne avoiding the eye area. The oil has an extremely strong fragrance and causes a stinging sensation as soon as applied which, I am ready to forsake if it actually worked for acne. But to my disdain it did not, and the next day I saw 2 new pimples on my face. The effect probably varies from person to person but for my skin it clearly did no good .I continued using this product for a few days only because I didn’t want to waste my money but, it did nothing about the acne or the scars.

This product has ensured that I wouldn’t buy any product with tea tree oil in it cause of the recurrent acne that I saw on my face with regular usage of the product.

Pros:

  • Lasts for a long time since you have to use only a few drops in a single application
  • Comes with a dropper
  • Comes with a screw cap which prevents leakage

Cons:

  • Doesn’t reduce acne or scars
  • Causes stinging sensation
  • Overpowering smell
  • Can cause dry patches on skin
  • Not travel friendly

Final word

I would not recommend this product to anyone since, it has proven to be a complete waste of every penny spent and would do nothing about the acne instead, it would cause more harm like dry patches on skin. So, if you are looking for a good tea tree oil then, this is definitely not the one.

Rating: 1/5

Editor’s Note: Oo..I am surprised this didn’t work because I have heard a lot of good things about the Fabindia oils too. The Body Shop one is definitely amazing, I have tried that. I think you should try The Body Shop one.

Have you tried the Fabindia Tea Tree Oil? Did you have the same experience?

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar 30+ SPF Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion Review

Biotique Bio Morning Nectar 30+ SPF Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion Review

By Archana

Hi all,

Today, am reviewing the last product in the Biotique Anti-ageing Skin Care Routine which is the sunscreen lotion. No skin care is complete without a suncare product. Biotique Bio Morning Nectar 30+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion not only helps in anti-ageing but also gives a flawless, radiant skin. Let’s move on to the review.

Products claims: Nectar is the sweet fluid that flowering plants produce each day, used to sustain ageless beauty from the beginning of time. This nourishing and brightening lotion is blended with pure honey, wheatgerm and seaweed. Replaces natural oils and replenishes lost moisture. Softens and brightens skin for a noticebly fairer complexion. Protects skin with SPF 30 UVA / UVB sunscreen.

Ingredients: Ghritkumari (Aloe barbedensis), Methi (Trigo foenum graecum), Madhu (Honey), Ankurit gehun (Tritcum vulgare), Kusumbhi (Carthamus tinstorious), Lotion base Q.S.

Price and quantity: Rs.199 for 120ml.

Availability: Buy online HERE

Directions to use: Apply evenly over cleansed face and neck, before sun exposure, each morning. Wear alone or under makeup.

Packaging:

The sunscreen lotion comes in a tall, translucent cylindrical plastic bottle with a screw-on cap. I wish it came in a pump packaging instead as those are more convenient. The bottle is housed inside an outer carton which has all the details of the product. I have carried this during my travels and haven’t faced any leakage or spillage.

Texture and fragrance:

The sunscreen lotion is white in color and has a medium consistency, neither thick nor thin. It has a faint herbal scent which is not bothersome.

My experience:

I have been using this sunscreen lotion along with the other products in the anti-ageing routine. I have slightly dry skin and this sunscreen lotion suits me perfectly. I sometimes skip moisturizer and use only this sunscreen. So this serves as a dual-purpose product. It gets blended easily without leaving any white cast unlike other sunscreens and gives a dewy look. Only a small quantity is needed each time so one bottle will last for a long time.

It offers high sun protection of SPF 30 and protection from both UVA and UVB rays. I feel it also improves skin texture and makes my skin soft, smooth and nourished. I haven’t faced any breakouts while using this lotion. However, I doubt whether it would suit oily skin as it might cause them to sweat more.

Pros:

* High sun protection of SPF 30 and UVA and UVB protection.

* Does not leave any whitish cast.

* Doubles up as a moisturizer as well.

* Makes skin soft, smooth and nourished.

* Less quantity is needed, so lasts for a long time.

* Impressive natural ingredients list.

* Affordable.

Cons:

* Might not suit oily skin.

Rating: 4.3/5

Verdict: Overall, Biotique Bio Morning Nectar 30+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion is a good ayurvedic sunscreen lotion which also moisturizes and nourishes the skin. It is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives, so you can use this safely. All skin types except oily skin can use it.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely love Morning Nectar, I had the normal version, not this sunscreen version. I used this at night since it is little heavy or during winters. But I love how it make my skin perfectly balanced and hydrated/nourished the next morning.

Have you tried Biotique Morning Nectar/Sunscreen lotion?

Aroma Essentials Orange Crush Mask Review

Aroma Essentials Orange Crush Mask Review

By Nidhal

Ever watched those orange-juice commericals wherein the model squeezes fresh ripe oranges over herself and feels refreshed out of the blue and wondered HOW? No, don’t frown, there are such adverts. If the purpose is the latter (that is, refreshing your skin and adding a desirable hue of radiance)and not the former (that is, squeezing oranges on your face which by the way, even sounds odd), then there is someone listening. Any guesses? It is none other than the natural skin and hair care brand from the Silicon Valley of India ‘Bangaluru’- Aroma Essentials 🙂

Having relied on a number of products from their eclectic range in the past, I zeroed in on their Orange Crush Mask to see how far it fares on my skin and get that instant burst of energy thanks to the zingy aroma of oranges. And if all that happens sans pumping toxins in one’s body, what better could I ask for? 🙂 On that note, let us check out how Aroma Essentials’ Orange Crush Mask fared for me.

PRICE- 300 INR for 30 gm

DIRECTIONS FOR USE– Scoop out a generous dollop, massage on your wet and clean face and neck for 5 minutes. Leave to dry and rinse with cold water when completely dry.

INGREDIENTS- Crafted using the finest natural ingredients such as- orange decoction, orange essential oil and extracts.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Throw away all your chemical-laden face masks that harm more than they benefit. Here is Aroma Essentials’ orange crush face mask that drives away all the dirt and tiredness while brightening your complexion like never before!

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a simple plastic tub with a cap on top and another layer of plastic covering inside, the packaging of Aroma Essentials Orange Crush Mask looks and is quite simple. But that does mean it is flimsy. How? The cap is sturdy per se and the additional layer of covering inside averts chances of leakage altogether. I have carried it a number of times while commuting and not once, has it spilt. On that account, I find the packaging up to the mark and definitely travel-friendly.

The mask has the consistency of crushed tomatoes (yes, visualise that peppy song of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara wherein the characters played with tomatoes during the La Tomatina festival of Spain, to get an idea)! Upon opening the lid, your nostrils are in for a pleasant surprise for the zesty aroma of this mask bewitches one. I can clearly make out that it contains orange essential oil and I am glad that the aroma is not achieved by the virtue of cheap fillers/toxins.

As instructed, I smeared a liberal amount of this mask on my drenched face and neck, massaged in circular motions for five minutes and let it undisturbed for the next ten minutes. After that, with a little water in my palms, I gently washed the mask. Not only was my face visibly brighter (yes, the results were noticeable in the first use) and softer but also squeaky-clean. Since I applied the mask when it was cool (I store it in the refrigerator as was instructed), I was relaxed all the while it stayed on my face.

It does not suck moisture off my skin which is why, I find it compatible for dry skin. Even normal skin can go for it but I doubt its efficacy for use on oily skin maybe because the texture spells qualms. On the whole, for instant freshening/brightening, it works wonders but not for eliminating blemishes/scars.

GOOD-

1. All natural-content. No toxins are added.

2. Gingers one up with its zesty fragrance

3. Brightens complexion almost instantaneously

4. Does not suck moisture

5. Compatible for normal and dry skin types the most. Oily skin can use but in my humble opinion, it would benefit the former two skin types the most

6. Made in India

7. Amazing aroma. It perks one instantly. It isn’t strong so, those with a sensitive nose need not fret.

8. Travel-friendly packaging. The provision of a plastic cap inside allays the fear of leakage/spillage

9. Cruelty-free

10. Free from artificial fragrances under the garb of which a number of noxious chemicals are added

11. Dermatologically tested

12. Chemical-free

13. Order can be placed either on their Facebook page or on WhatsApp. Hence, there is ease in placing orders. COD (Cash on Delivery), however is not available yet.

BAD-

1. For the price paid, I wish the quantity were a little more. Shelling 300 INR for 30 gm sounds implausible.

2. Does not eliminate scars/blemishes

RATING- 4/5

Editor’s Note: This sounds really good, would love to try this out!

Have you tried Aroma Essentials products?