Baby skincare products are of utmost importance as babies have very soft and delicate skin and we have to make sure we use the best ingredients on them so that there is no irritation to their skin.
#Babywipes are something that is most used when it comes to baby skincare. They are a must-have in the diaper bag as diaper needs changing every 3-4 hours. Since baby wipes are used very frequently to clean, we must make sure to use the ones that are meant for sensitive skin, clean well, and do not irritate the baby’s bottom.
Let us talk about the best baby wipes in India currently.
#MotherSparsh Baby Wipes are on the top in the baby wipes category, they tick mark all the boxes. They have no added scent i.e. are fragrance-free and are 3 times thicker with prolonged moisture. They are made especially for normal to sensitive skin using medical-grade fabric which is 100% biodegradable. Their wipes clean the skin properly and also soothe any irritation or rashes. They are very soft on the skin, yet every wipe is thick and durable, dermatologically tested & clinically examined for infections and rashes. Mother Sparsh Wipes are as good as cotton and water and are priced at Rs.299/- for a pack of 72 wipes.
They are also travel-friendly and suitable for use on the face, hands, and body.
I have personally also used these to remove my makeup and they work well. They are very handy for my everyday use and I have been using them for 9-10 days now. Also, help with cleaning makeup mistakes or brushes while using them during makeup and for lipstick swatches. They sit on my everyday vanity table as I keep reaching for them now and then.
Himalaya Baby Wipes are free of alcohol, parabens, silicones, lanolin. They have lotus and aloe vera extracts and act as a natural moisturizer, priced at Rs.175/- for a pack of 72 wipes.
3. MamyPoko Anti Bacterial Wipes
MamyPoko is a very popular Japanese brand and they make budget baby care products. They are alcohol-free and are good for daily use but they do have fragrances. Priced at Rs.99/- for 50 wipes.
4. Johnson’s Baby Wipes
Johnson’s is the oldest and the most trusted brand in India for baby products. Their wipes are made of advanced fiber technology and contain a moisturizing lotion that is gentle on the skin. They are soap-free and alcohol-free, priced at Rs.220/- for 80 wipes.
5. Mee Mee Baby Wipes
Mee Mee is also a popular baby care brand, Mee Mee wipes are dermatologically tested and are made of spun lace, non-woven fabric. They also have aloe vera extracts that keep the skin cool and hydrated. Priced at Rs.99/- for 72 wipes.
6. Baby Dove Rich Moisture Baby Wipes
Dove has recently launched ‘Baby Dove’ in India, their wipes are dermatologically and periodically tested, hypoallergenic and alcohol-free formula. They are created with no parabens, no dyes, and no phthalates. They have glycerin which moisturizes and soothes the skin. Priced at Rs.135/- for 50 wipes.
These were the Top 6 Baby wipes in India, all are gentle and safe for the baby’s sensitive skin. I would prefer and recommend the biodegradable ones though, as we use a lot of wipes and the non-biodegradable ones stay in the environment forever and even cause blockages while the biodegradable ones would degrade in about 42 days. Also, fragrance-free as fragrance can irritate a baby’s delicate skin, hence my pick would be the Mother Sparsh 99% Pure Water Unscented Baby Wipes.
Have you tried Mother Sparsh 99% Pure Water Baby Wipes before?
P.S.: This blog is in collaboration with Mother Sparsh
Don’t we all want to classy and elegant? What to do we think of when we talk about a ‘classy’ look? Sophisticated, refined.
And who comes to your mind first when we say ‘classy’? For me, it’s Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Princess Diana,etc.
What if I say you can look classy while being on a budget? That’s right! You don’t have to be rich to look classy or spend million bucks.
Let me share some pointers on how you can look classy and elegant while being on a budget, I will also share things to avoid at the end.
1. Well fitted clothes
First and foremost, your clothes should always be structured and well fitted. Loose or ill fitted clothes look shabby, at the same time make sure you conceal your problem areas, for example, dresses that are flared towards the bottom if you have a pear shaped body and outfits that accentuate your waist if you have an hourglass figure. You can also add a belt to give some shape and definition to your loose clothes.
2. Wear Black
Black is always classy and will never go out of style. When we think of black, we think of Coco Chanel, isn’t it. Black is a neutral that pairs well with everything. Invest in black suits, pants, shoes, bags, that will work with any outfit when you are not sure what to wear.
3. Layering
Make jackets/blazers/coats your best friend. Invest in some good quality, well fitted outer wear that will last you a long time and work with everything and in all seasons. Blazers instantly add a sophisticated touch to your outfit and you can pair them with everything from dresses to skirts to denims. Colour co-ordinated blazer pants, blazer skirt sets look very elegant.
4. Pointy shoes
Wear pointed heels or flats, invest in both nude and black colours. Pointed shoes are wardrobe staples and scream expensive.
5. Creaseless clothing
Always make sure to iron or steam your clothes right before wearing them or invest in fabrics that don’t crease as much. Creases in your outfits tend to look shabby.
6. Structured Bag
A structured bag in a neutral colour with simple hardware, will elevate your outfit, a structured bag will retain it’s shape regardless of how much stuff is in it, but still avoid over stuffing your bag.
7. Minimal Accessories
Some dainty and delicate neck pieces and earrings or rings, or a statement watch will add an elegant touch to your outfit. But don’t wear them all together or don’t overdo the accessories. Keep it minimal.
8. Co-ordinate your bag and shoes
Make sure your bag and shoes are of same colour in one outfit, like a black bag and pointy black shoes or nude with nude and so on..or try to keep them in the same colour family. A co-ordinated outfit looks well thought out and more put together.
9. Minimal makeup
Simple and clean makeup looks fresh and elegant. Neutral shades of brown/taupe for the eyes and a lipstick in either nude, pink or red is classic.
10. Hair and nails
A sleek bun or a pulled back ponytail looks chic, if you plan to leave your home open, keep them straight. Neutral/nude coloured nail paint or a classic French manicure will compliment and finish your look.
Also, always be confident in whatever your wear, because if you are uncomfortable or not confident, that will always show through. Lottoland has this amazing article on how to dress like a millionaire. What is Lottoland, you ask? Lottoland allows you to bet on the outcome of world’s biggest and best lotto draws, it includes EuroJackpot (EU), the SuperEnalotto (Italy) and MegaMillions (US). They also have Irish Lotto, Polish Lotto, four from Australia and many more..
Now some tips on what to completely avoid..
Avoid doing too much, all together. A loud dress, statement jewellery, too much colour together. Keep the whole outfit as simple as possible.
Avoid being a walking billboard. Wearing brands doesn’t make you look classy, wearing a Gucci belt, a LV bag, Chanel sunglasses and a Burberry scarf will only make you look like a billboard. Keep one piece a statement brand piece and work your outfit around it.
Don’t fall for trends. Trends come and go, classy style is something that stays forever in trend, that is why it’s called classic. It’s a way of personal style, don’t fall for whatever is trendy this season because that will keep on changing every 6 months.
Showing too much skin. Classy is not associated with wearing a revealing outfit or showing too much skin. An LBD or a slip dress layered with a coat/blazer looks more sophisticated than showing skin.
I would suggest investing in key, quality pieces and buying one piece at a time if you are on a budget. Always look out for sales and thrift stores, trust me you find some hidden gems in there.
Don’t we all love a good pampering session every now and then? I love masking, especially on weekends while the weather is changing outdoors. Currently I am loving this new launch by Dermafique, which is their range of Bio Cellulose Face Masques. Why, you ask? Because it’s a perfect burst of hydration for the dry and dehydrated skin when the weather is changing and the skin definitely needs that added moisture burst.
Why is the Dermafique Bio Cellulose Masque better than the regular Tissue based sheet masks?
The Dermafique Bio Cellulose Masque delivers superior hydration and efficacy, as compared to other masks. The range is made of biodegradable Bio Cellulose fibers, and are Made of 100% Natural Coconut Water. Bio Cellulose fibers have great absorbency and penetration. They don’t dry out on the skin. Ordinary tissue masks don’t adhere very well on the face and tend to fall off or slip and even tear off at places when trying to adjust. Bio Cellulose Masks are thicker comparatively, never tear off, and adhere to the skin perfectly and do not fall off or slide!
Dermafique Bio Cellulose Masques are derived from 100% Natural Coconut Water, they use patented technology and are dermatologically tested on Indian Skin as well!
Dermafique has launched 3 Bio Cellulose Face Masques,
Charcoal – For Anti Pollution
Pore Tightening – For tightening pores and providing hydration
Tone Perfecting – To reduce uneven skin tone
The Dermafique Bio Cellulose Charcoal Face Masque offers deep pore cleansing which helps unclog pores and removes dead skin, leaving it cleaner, brighter and healthier. Charcoal sucks out the toxins and pollutants from the skin and the hydrating ingredients like glycerin, honey, green tea, etc. give that added moisture boost to the skin.
The Dermafique Bio Cellulose Pore Tightening Masque tightens skin pores and provides deep hydration to the skin. It detoxifies and purifies skin, making it look smoother, softer and firmer. The second ingredient here is Niacinamide which helps in reducing the appearance of pores, controlling the sebum/oil production and calming irritated/inflammed skin.
The Dermafique Bio Cellulose Tone Perfecting Masque leaves skin appearing more even toned. It improves skin complexion by reducing the appearance of blemishes and dark spots, making it look more youthful and radiant. The second ingredient here again is Niacinamide, and additionally it has Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Chamomile and Grapefruit extracts as primary ingredients that help nourish and hydrate the skin and add that needed moisture back to the skin making it soft and plump.
They are priced at Rs.299/- each and are meant for all skin types.
How to use:
Open the pack and unfold the masque, discard the non-woven film and place the mask on the face, remove the white plastic film and adjust the mask. Keep it for 30 minutes and then take off, gently massage/pat your skin or wash with water, if required.
My experience:
Dermafique Bio Cellulose Masque is definitely one of the best masks I have used. It fit the contours of my face perfectly and did not slide off even once. There was absolutely no issue in using it, no messiness or serum dripping everywhere as the masque holds the serum well.
I used the Tone Perfecting Masque and my skin felt soft, plump and hydrated immediately. Also there was no stickiness after removing the mask and the serum got absorbed into the skin. The masque was cooling and refreshing, and for summers if you store it in a refrigerator, it will be all the more refreshing. It’s perfect for a chilled weekend at home, where you do nothing and still get a facial like glow in 30 minutes.
Overall, I am pretty happy with the Tone Perfecting Masque and how my skin looked after. I would highly recommend the Dermafique Bio Cellulose Face Masques. You can buy them HERE
Minimalist Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin C and Niacinamide Serums Review
Hi guys,
I am sure you have heard of Minimalist by now, and how it’s an Indian version of the famous ‘The Ordinary’. I picked 3 serums from Minimalist and have been using them since the past 2 months.
The packaging and the products do remind you of The Ordinary for sure, they were planning to change the packaging and I hope they do that soon.
I know there are diverse opinions on this, but honestly how many people have credit cards or shop internationally. Even though I used to shop a lot internationally, the customs duty + shipping has made it hard in the past 2-3 years. So if I get similar products here in India which work equally well and are priced similarly, why would I not buy from here! But do they work as well as The Ordinary products? Read on to find out..
First of all, I love the fact that they teach their consumers so much about ingredients and how they work and the science behind it. They have a separate ‘Knowledge’ section on the website which is like a blog and has some amazing, detailed articles about different skincare ingredients with backed up research.
All Minimalist products are fragrance, paraben, silicone, sulphate, dye, essential oil free and are non comedogenic which means they will not clog your pores.
Packaging wise, all the serums come in a glass bottle with a dropper.
Their Formula has Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 10% + Acetyl Glucosamine 1%. Now Vitamin C is one of the most powerful anti-oxidants in skincare, anti-oxidants basically mean they negate oxidation i.e. they fight the free radicals and damage caused by oxidation through the environmental factors like stress/pollution/sun damage, etc. Just as consuming Vitamin C helps you fight viruses by boosting your immunity and strength to fit, the same way when applied on skin it fights the damage being done to the skin through environmental, external factors.
It also helps in brightening and evening out the skin tone, helps fade dark spots over time and also helps in boosting collagen, so with regular long time use helps prevent/delay fine lines and wrinkles.
Consuming citrus fruits, such as oranges, lime, and peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, broccoli, brussels sprouts, etc. is amazing for both your body and skin as they have a lot of Vitamin C in them.
When combined with topical application on skin along with consuming a good diet, it is all the more beneficial for the skin.
But Vitamin C is extremely sensitive to light and air, so every time you open a bottle of Vitamin C, you are reducing a little bit of anti oxidants as you are allowing the process of oxidation. Hence, Vitamin C bottles are always dark and tinted, and I store them in a refrigerator and would recommend you do the same.
I love the fact that are also using a dark, tinted bottle. One bottle will last you 2-3 months depending on the usage, whether once a day or twice a day. I use it only in the mornings and it will last me one more month. Once opened, it is best to use up your Vitamin C within 2-3 months as it oxidizes.
Minimalist uses Vitamin C derivative “Ethyl Ascorbic Acid” that has 86% pure Vitamin C content. That is much higher than 40-50% content present in other Vitamin C derivatives. At a pH ~ 4.0 it is highly stable and effective. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is the most stable form of Vitamin C currently and is both oil and water soluble. They have also added 1% Acetyl Glucosamine (AG), an amino acid sugar and a precursor of hyaluronic acid, that provides skin moisturization, boosts natural Hyaluronic Acid formation on the skin, and is a Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). A recent study has also shown visible improvement in fine lines around eyes with 2% AG.
I am absolutely in love with the ingredients and formula, they source their base ingredients from leading global suppliers who supply to most of these famous skincare brands globally.
They have used Centella Asiatice Leaf water as the base instead of just water, which is Gotu Kola and it very calming and soothing on the skin.
The formula is runny and watery, it is slightly tacky but absorbs quickly. I follow it up with my moisturizer and sunscreen during day time.
When used in the morning followed by a sunscreen, it increases the damage protection from sun exposure as it fights free radicals and oxidants.
I have been using both Vitamin C and Alpha Arbutin since 2 months and I can definitely see a change in my skin tone and a few post acne marks. A recent breakout in December post my travel, has already faded because of regular use of these two, otherwise my post acne marks take about 3-5 months to fade.
I love using Vitamin C serums but many of them oxidize before I can finish the bottle and that breaks my heart. I have been using this every morning since 2 months and I store it in the refrigerator and it hasn’t oxidized and I will finish it in another month. Definitely repurchasing this, at a price of Rs.695/-, if one bottle lasts 3 months, it is definitely worth it! Highly recommend this!
Let’s talk about the Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid 1%
What is Alpha Arbutin you ask? Alpha Arbutin is extracted from plants such as bearberries, blueberries, and cranberries, it is a skin brightening and lightening ingredient. If you have post acne marks, melasma, pigmentation around your mouth or on the sides of the face, you should definitely include Alpha Arbutin in your skincare regime.
Alpa Arbutin reduces skin’s pigment production by suppressing the enzymes that stimulate melanin. It also slows down the process by which UV light causes pigmentation, so it both prevents and treats pigmentation issues. But keep in mind it is not a whitening or fairness product and don’t expect it to change your skin colour/tone. It is meant to even out the skin and help in fading marks.
It is much safer and gentler unlike Kojic Acid or Hydroquinone which are known to have some side effects and can irritate skin.
They have also added 1% Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate), HA is found in our skin already and it acts as a sponge helping the skin to hold onto water, being plump and elastic. Sometimes our skin doesn’t produce enough HA and it looks dry, dehyrated, wrinkly, HA is famous for its crazy water holding capacity as it can bind up to 1000 times its own weight in water.
It’s slightly runny but not as watery and runny as the Vitamin C serum. The base they have used here is Aloe Vera Juice instead of Water which again is soothing and calming
The added hydration benefit from Sodium Hyaluronate along with Alpha Arbutin is amazing. Both Vitamin C and Alpha Arbutin help in fading acne scars and reducing hyperpigmentation, so both when used together are a super powerful combination. Like I mentioned, my post acne mark faded within 2-3 weeks when I used both of these together which takes at least a few months otherwise.
I am really happy with the results overall, also the HA helped me in cold and dry Dubai weather in December when my skin was super dry.
At Rs.549/– it’s a total value for money and I am definitely repurchasing it again. Highly recommend this as well!
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, it is a water soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin to help visibly minimize enlarged pores, improve uneven skin tone, diminish dullness, and strengthen a weakened skin barrier.
It also helps in balancing the sebum production, so works really well for oily skin. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and blemishes over time
The vitamin B3 and mineral zinc duo are potent enough to reduce visible blemishes and clear congested pores. Also, they have used aloe juice instead of water which makes it more calming and soothing.
The formula is little thicker and slightly tacky, compared to the other two. But the stickiness is gone after a few seconds on the skin and it’s absorbed. Also I found the dropper for this little inconvenient or may be because it’s slightly thicker, it doesn’t drop off easily.
Most of the research for Niacinamide is done at 5%, so it works equally well at a lower % too. Minimalist also has a 5% Niacinamide Serum and if you are new to actives, you can maybe start at 5% if you feel your skin won’t be able to handle 10%
Compared to Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin C, Niacinamide works slow and over a long period of time, so you might not notice visible difference and since I don’t have oily skin and already use other skin care products in my regime which have a little bit of Niacinamide in them, the results for me weren’t miraculous. But I do like adding Niacinamide in my regime for improving my skin barrier and for long term effectiveness.
I won’t say this is a must have, I do like the other two serums more but I am still going to repurchase and continue using it since Niacinamide is overall beneficial for the skin.
But if you have oily skin, I do recommend giving this a try.
Overall, I am pretty happy with Minimalist products and I am planning to try the Multi Peptide Serum, 2% Retinoid and Sepicalm Moisturizer next.
I would love to see more launches from Minimalist, hoping to see some lip balms and Azelaic Acid this year.
You can follow me on Instagram HERE for more skincare reviews and updates.
Have you tried any Minimalist products yet? Let me know your thoughts.
It’s time for the Black Friday Sales and ShopBop also has their amazing sale just like every year. It starts from 26th Nov and ends on 30th Nov i.e. on Cyber Monday.
You get 20% off on all orders over $200 using the code ‘SHOP20’ and the code ‘CYBER20’ on Monday.
These are on my wish list since a long time and perfect to grab at 20% off, Again will work with everything, I love investing in classic pieces and nude, tan and black are classics that compliment all other colours beautifully. And I am loving the square toe currently.
What’s on your wishlist? What are you planning to buy this Black Friday?
Let’s talk about exfoliation today and why it is essential for your skin. So many people still don’t exfoliate this date and that basically adds layers and layers of dead skin. Our skin goes through a natural shedding process every 30 days or so and if we don’t exfoliate, it would take a long time to shed on it’s own and it also leads to ingrown hair, rough patches, debris and dead skin sitting on the skin’s surface.
Exfoliating regularly helps get rid of the dead skin cells and also helps in faster regeneration of the new layer of skin.
Let’s see some benefits of exfoliation:
Unclogs pores
Removes dead skin cells
Makes skin smooth and supple
Helps get rid of ingrown hair
Helps get rid of uneven tan
Removes the dirt and debris sitting on the skin
Helps in blood circulation
Helps loosen and remove the blackheads
In the long term, also helps in producing collagen keeping skin softer, smoother and wrinkle free
Helps reduce cellulite
So there are numerous benefits of exfoliation and it is the key to a soft, smooth skin.
I have been using and loving the mCaffeine Coffee Body Scrub currently. Coffee is the best ingredient when it comes to body scrubbing/exfoliation.
About mCaffeine: mCaffeine is India’s 1st Caffeinated Personal Care Brand. All of mCaffeine’s products are infused with caffeine. Caffeine being a superfood for hair and skin, it’s an extension to the hyperactive lifestyle and individualistic identity.
All mCaffeine products are SLS-Paraben Free, Vegan, Clinically tested, cruelty free, Made Safe Certified
This scrub has the goodness of both coffee and coconut. Coffee polishes skin, exfoliates, removes tan, dead cells and reduces cellulite. The caffeine in coffee tones the skin and coconut moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
The texture is very fine and not at all harsh, so it is even safe for sensitive skin. It comes with a wooden spoon which helps you scoop out the product. Take some product in your palms, mix with a little bit of water and exfoliate all of your body parts, especially the parts where we tend to get rougher, drier skin like elbows and knees.
It smells absolutely amazing, if you love coffee, the entire bath experience when using the scrub is sensorial and the whole bathroom smells like the Coorg coffee plantation.
I love the ingredients and it leaves the skin super soft post exfoliation, and because of the coconut oil skin feels moisturized and hydrated.
Coffee Body scrubs are gender neutral and this can be used by both men and women. Men need to keep their skin soft too 😀
How often should you exfoliate? I would say once a week is good enough. You will need about 4 spoons of this scrub for exfoliating the entire body, so this tub will last you quite long.
It’s a total value for money at Rs.449/-
Overall, I really like this mCaffeine Coffee Body Scrub and would recommend it.
I visited Kerala last year and it was one of my most special travel trips, it’s a place I can never forget. Although I had only 6 days and I divided it between Munnar and Varkala, there is so much more I wanted to see and experience and would definitely be going back again soon!
Munnar
Kerala, popularly known as God’s Own Country had evolved a way of life that is distinct from the rest of the country – a way of life that expresses a fascinating interplay of nature and humanity across the most diverse terrains one could imagine – all in a tiny green land. Here every human act is a way of connecting with everything in nature around them. Whether it’s the vast stretch of tea estates or taking a shower in the river with the elephants or spending a night in a house boat in the beautiful back waters, you would be one with nature everywhere in Kerala.
If you have been to Kerala, I am sure you will vouch for the amazing people of Kerala. They are so friendly, warm and helpful, they will go out of their way to help you. Different religions, different ideologies, different cultures or different food habits, they still mesh together and co-habit peacefully. And not only just humans, they co-habit with the nature and animals as well.
Humanity interconnected with nature is a way of life in Kerala that also drew from its history of trade and seafaring that led to it being a melting pot where the most diverse ideologies, faiths and cultures co-existed like no other place.
This video, Human By Nature, is drawn from real stories of the land. It is an ode to the people of Kerala whose everyday lives are, in a way, epic in scale. It emerged from continual conversations with travellers to Kerala, who over the years spoke of a fascinating human’scape’, beyond the stunning landscapes.
The vast, beautiful, lush green tea gardens at Munnar or the stunning sunsets at the beaches of Varkala, I just couldn’t have enough of Kerala and I wished to stay longer.
Varkala Beach
The food of Kerala is equally amazing, although I am a vegetarian there were so many new dishes to try. I tried Ela Ada, Idiyappam, Puttu, so many things for the first time in Kerala and absolutely loved them. I love to try and experience the local food, local culture whenever I am travelling and Kerala did not disappoint in the food aspect as well.
The culture of Kerala is a fusion of Aryan and Dravidian cultures, advanced and mixed for centuries, under inspirations from other parts of India and abroad. It is well-defined by its antiquity, relic and the organic continuity sustained by the Malayali people. Any time you visit Kerala, most likely there will be at least one local festival you can experience. Kerala trace its non-prehistoric cultural genesis to its membership (around the AD 3rd century) in a vaguely defined historical region known as Thamizhagom — a land defined by a common Tamil culture and encompassing the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms. Kerala has an opulent cultural heritage with its diverse ethos is influenced by three main religions of Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Exquisite sculptures, music and dance forms can be seen in the historic growth of Kerala’s cultural traditions. Trissur Pooram, The traditions of Kathakali and Mohiniattam are highly developed art forms that have established from their folk origins into highly evolved classical dance forms.
Varkala Beach
We also got to watch the traditional martial art form of Kerala, Kalaripayattu and it was mind blowing. Kathakali show was also on my list but the timings didn’t match unfortunately. But I have so much more to experience in Kerala, that I am definitely going back. Alleppey, Wayanad, Kumarakom, so many places, honestly you need 15-20 days to experience Kerala.
Munnar
From the wildlife, to the nature, the mountains, the beaches, the people, Kerala is so warm and lovely and one of those places you can never forget once you visit and would want to revisit again and again.
See my previous post on Kerala HERE for more places to visit and things to do in Kerala.
Have you been to Kerala? Which is your favourite place? If not, which place is on your wishlist? Let me know your experience in the comments below.
