My Current Favourite Skin Care Products Step by Step, Indian Skincare Blog

My Current Favourite Skin Care Products Step by Step

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My Current Favourite Skin Care Products Step by Step

Hi guys,

So I did this skin care series on my Instagram, and if you follow me on Instagram you would know I am obsessed with skin care. I thought of sharing the same here on my blog as well.

I absolutely love skin care and I feel good skin is the base for any makeup look, you don’t need super heavy coverage foundations and concealers if you have good skin, the layers will only end up making your base look heavy and cakey. A major % of how your skin behaves depends on genetics and diet. You can only control the diet part of course and regular skin care with good diet can solve a lot of your skin concerns.

I have been super regular with my skin care since more than a year now and have noticed a huge difference in my pores, lines, texture, pigmentation around the mouth, etc. I do have a detailed skin care routine video on my channel, but the products keep on changing as I experiment and review new brands and as per how my skin is feeling, the order is the same though (Watch HERE)

Step 1: Double Cleanse


Starting with Step 1 which is Double Cleanse, as the name suggests it means cleansing twice. First cleanse with an oil/balm especially if you are wearing makeup/sunscreen. Oil or balm will melt all the makeup/dirt/grime from the pores. You need to massage the oil or balm well for 30-40 seconds and then emulsify it with water for 10-15 seconds. Then follow with the second cleanse, which will be a gentle foaming cleanser. It will wash off all the excess oil/dirt left, if any. You can also use a reusable cloth wipe to remove the makeup after first cleanse, only water also works for me.

I haven’t bought makeup wipes in years and would not recommend them at all, they are very harsh on the skin + not bio degradable. I do have a few bio degradable ones which I use, only when I am travelling.

Coming to micellar water, you can use it as a first cleanse but you absolutely need to do the second cleanse with it unlike the ‘no rinse’ marketing claim. Micellar water is made of small micelles which leave a surface residue on the skin. I am not a fan of micellar waters because oils/balms do the best job in removing makeup for me, plus some micellar waters sting my sensitive eyes.

Products shown:

1. Isadora Cleansing Oil
2. Pixi Beauty Hydrating Makeup Remover with coconut & probiotics
3. Heimish All Clean Balm
4. Pixi Double Cleanse Balm
5. Clinique Take The Day Off
6. Pond’s Cleansing Balm
7. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
8. Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash (soap free)
9. Suganda Centella Green Tea Face Wash
10. Forest Essentials Kashmiri Saffron & Neem Delicate Facial Cleanser
11. Kama Ayurveda Sensitive Skin Cleansing Foam with Sandalwood & Aloe Vera

Step 2 is Tone/Treat, it’s CTTM now in place of CTM. Treat is a very essential step in skincare and all your actives, serums, essence are a part of Treat.

Toners and Serums can be exfoliating or hydrating. If you use an exfoliating toner, go for a hydrating/calming serum and vice versa. You can also use both hydrating (if you have exfoliation in your cleanser/moisturizer) but don’t use both exfoliating because we don’t want to sensitize our skin. I like actives (Vit C, Chemical Exfoliants, etc.) in the form of toners and serums. Things you should add in your skincare routine, if you haven’t already:

Vitamin C
AHA/BHA
Niacinamide (optional)

Vit C (Ascorbic Acid) increases production of collagen, reduces hyper pigmentation and evens out skin tone, brightens skin and protects against pollution and sun damage.
Best used in serum form (10-20%) Start with 10%, when used in the mornings before sunscreen, boosts the protection from sun damage.


Alpha Hydroxy Acids i.e. Glycolic, Lactic, Mandelic, etc are water soluble and work on surface layer of skin, works better for dry/dull skin.
Beta Hydroxy Acids i.e. Salicylic Acid is oil soluble and goes deep into the pores to unclog the pores and hence works well for oily, acne prone skin.

Both AHA/BHA unglue the bond holding dead skin on the surface and exfoliate the skin. Also help improve the texture, bumps, minimize the appearance of pores and uneven skin tone, etc. But you need to be regular to see results.

If you are a beginner at chemical exfoliation, start with Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic which has 5% Glycolic Acid and is gentle enough for everyday use as well.
Suganda AHA/BHA serums are also very gentle for beginners as they are balanced with Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) and Green Tea.
Paula’s Choice 8% AHA gel works well for dry skin and 2% BHA liquid exfoliant for oily/acne prone skin or those with enlarged pores.
Dr.Sheths Gulab Glycolic Toner is also very, very gentle for daily use. (You can use my coupon code ‘BHUMIKA’ to get 20% off on Dr.Sheths products)

Niacinamide (Vit B3) helps in reducing inflammation, redness, regulates oil production & minimizes the appearance of pores. Works best with Zinc, in serum form. (5-20%, can start with 5-10%) You can add it at a later stage.

Step 3 is Repair/ Hydrate which will again have serums and essences, now if you have used an active serum/toner, you can use an hydrating essence to balance and calm. This will include mostly calming, repairing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, cica, honey, propolis, ceramides, etc. Some repairing serums/essences may have little actives, so on some days you can skip actives all together and just use this.

The Paula’s Choice Azelaic Acid and the Olay Retinol24 Serum fall under actives but I use them on non active days or just with Niacinamide (not with AHA or BHA) and they have a cream gel and a serum like consistency + some hydrating ingredients.

Products shown:

Secret Key Multi Cell Night Repair
May Coop Raw Sauce
Guerlain Abeille Royale
Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic Serum
Dr.Sheths Cica & Ceramide Repair Serum
Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Serum

Step 4 Moisturize

Now you generally wouldn’t go wrong with a Moisturizer, it’s a pretty basic skincare product and most brands make a good one. The only rule you need to remember is keep it simple, less ingredients, and no fragrance if possible.
Moisturizer should have occlusives, humectants and emollients.


Occlusives (petrolatum and other oily substances) hold the water in. Humectants (glycerine, honey, panthenol, etc.) pull water both from the air and from deeper layers of skin. Hence occlusives and humectants are used together, to trap the moisture in, and to not let it pull from the skin. Emollients like some fatty alcohols fill the dry, flaky skin with fatty substances, called lipids, which make your skin smoother and softer.

Other ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamins, etc. are added benefits.

Now you can use the same Moisturizer day and night if you like, but I would say use a night cream with a slightly heavy texture or a sleeping mask, which will help repair the skin. Also since most people now sleep in an air conditioned room, the added moisture and sealing helps.

Products shown:

1. Clinique Moisture Surge
2. Pixi Beauty Rose Ceramide Cream
3. Pixi Retinol Jasmine Lotion
4. Nellietier Face Cream
5. Simple Replenishing Rich Moisturizer
6. Etude India Soon Jung Hydro Barrier Cream
7. Etude Moistfull Collagen Cream

Night Creams:

1. Dr.Sheths Haldi Hyaluronic Sleeping mask
2. Iunik Propolis Vitamin Sleeping Mask
3. Cosrx Ultimate Nourishing Overnight Rice Mask
4. Pixi Vit C Caviar Balm
5. Dr.Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Deep Cream

Apart from these, I also really love Suganda White Lotus Moisturizer in summers and the Rosehip Moisturizer in winters.

Step 5 for daytime and the most important is Sunscreen.

You may spend thousands on skin treatments and expensive skin care products, but even few minutes of direct sun exposure without sunscreen can negate all the effects.

UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer and lead to premature aging, wrinkles and sun spots.
UVA (Aging) rays can cause tanning and aging and UVB (Burning) rays can cause burning, your sunscreen should be broad spectrum meaning protect against both rays.

Chemical exfoliation and actives make your skin photosensitive, so you cannot skip your sunscreen at all.
Sunscreen can be physical (with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, etc.) Or chemical (with avobenzone, octisalate, oxybenzone, etc.) Earlier, physical sunscreens used to leave a strong, white cast but now you most physical sunscreens use nano technology and the nano particles blend in better. Physical ingredients block the UV rays and chemical absorb and scatter. I like a mix of both in my sunscreens, but if you are allergic to any chemical ingredient, make sure you check the ingredients before you buy.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) denotes the time your skin can be protected from UVB rays i.e.burning. If your skin would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun, applying an SPF 15 sunscreen would allow you to stay in the sun without burning for approximately 150 minutes.

You can use SPF 30 or 50, but the key is reapplication every two hours!
PA denotes protection from UVA rays and PA+++ is the best and highest level (some countries have researched and included PA++++ in certain products)

So SPF 30 PA+++ should be good enough, but make sure you reapply. You can reapply in spray or powder form if you have makeup on through the day. Also you need one teaspoon qty for face and one shot glass qty for entire body in one application (especially the exposed skin)

Products shown:

1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++
2. Brinton UV Doux Silicone Sunscreen Gel SPF50 PA+++
3. Biotique Bio Aloe Vera SPF30 (good for indoors or entire body)
4. Skin & Lab FreC Sun Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++ (with Vit C)
5. Organic Harvest SPF 60 PA+++
6. Avene Very High Protection Emulsion SPF

Weekly Treatments

Apart from my daily skincare routine, I also use some masks and additional exfoliation products once a week or once in 10-11 days.

You can increase Retinol to once in 2-3 days once your skin is past the ‘Retinization’ phase, I am using it once a week currently. I use the @deciem Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2%. Granactive Retinoid has hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR), a retinoic acid ester with a similar action on the skin as Retin-A. It is not the same as Retinol, and hence 2% of that is actually equal to very less retinol comparatively but there is no exact proven measurement.

Also once your skin gets used to regular acids, you can try the 30% AHA, 2% BHA from Ordinary which is an amazing at home exfoliating peel. But do not try it if you have very sensitive skin or your skin barrier is compromised or you can’t tolerate acids. There are a lot of precautions you need to take like skin should be dry, not to keep longer than 10mins, follow with a rich Moisturizer and loads of sunscreen, etc.

For beginner level, I would recommend the Secret Key lemon sparkling peeling gel, Pixi Peel & Polish.

My favourite masks when my skin is feeling dry are Fresh Rose Mask, Biossance Squalane + Vit C Rose Mask and Glamglow Thirsty Mud. For breakouts, Glamglow Supermud, Raw Nature Dead Sea Mud & Charcoal, Pixi T zone Peel off mask.

Also apart from these, pretty much all of The Body Shop Masks. I am not a fan of sheet masks, I haven’t bought a sheet mask in years (also most are not bio degradable). But I do have a lot of them from PR which I am trying to finish.

Let me know your skincare routine and your current favourite skin care products in the comments below 🙂

ShopBop’s Big Spring Sale is HERE!

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ShopBop’s Big Spring Sale is HERE!

Hi guys,

ShopBop‘s biggest Spring Sale is here and you get upto 25% off on all full priced items!

Starts: Monday 3/2 7:18AM Eastern Time (New York) Zone.

Ends: Saturday 3/9 4:00AM Eastern Time (New York) Zone.

The Spring Event

Up to 25% off full-price styles with code ‘SPRING’

15% off orders of $200+

20% off orders of $500+

25% off orders of $800+

Promo is only applicable to full-price items. Certain brand exclusions also applicable.

My recommendations:

  1. Tory Burch Canvas Link Tote

This is a perfect tote to carry around everything you need! And big totes are coming back in trend.

2. Madewell Denim Jacket

You need a good, well fitted denim jacket in your life, this one looks perfect.

3. Agolde High Rise Slimt Fit Jeans

If you are short/petite, Agolde makes the best denims for petite frames.

4. By Far Tanya Sandals

The best nude sandals, that will work with pretty much all outfits.

5. Fila Disruptor II Premium Sneakers

If you wanted to get on the Fila Disruptor bandwagon, this is the time. Coolest dad shoes.

And a ton of other watches, bags, etc. from Marc Jacobs

So what are you planning to get this sale? Let me know in the comments below.

 

Smell Fresh All Day with the New Fiama Scents

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Smell Fresh All Day with the New Fiama Scents

On a hectic day there is nothing more annoying than having to keep going and checking yourself out to make sure you smell right 🙂 For me my days are packed and I have to look fresh and sweet smelling for every engagement.

A few months ago I came across Fiama Scents, recommended by a friend who couldn’t stop talking about the fact that with a slight rub on the skin, this body wash actually last for 7-8 hours.

I am a fan of both the Juniper Berries & Geranium and Mimosa & Neroli body washes (though I have to admit that the latter is my favourite) – It’s like magic, you just rub the skin and you smell fresh again, as the scent bubbles get activated.

So with a little bit of technology magic called fragrance encapsulation, the brand has hit the nail on the head providing me with the freedom to do as many things in a day without those momentary break to “check” oneself.

These are also priced economically at, 250ml for ₹199 and a travel pack of 100ml for ₹55 (Buy HERE or HERE) Bright and fun, the smaller 100ml bottles are perfect for travel. If you live in a humid city (like Mumbai), Fiama Scents are definitely a must try because we need something which keeps us smelling fresh through the day. I definitely recommend them.

#Fiamascents #DilKoDeLift #Skincare #BodyWash #JoyOfBathing #AllDayFreshwithFiama

Wedding and Anniversary Gift Ideas

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Wedding and Anniversary Gift Ideas

A wedding is a time when a couple vow to love one another for the rest of their lives. It has to be one of the biggest commitments ever made in a lifetime, which deserves an amazing gift. Then, after the wedding, whether it has been one year or several decades later, an anniversary is the perfect time to celebrate with the couple for all they have achieved as they look ahead to another year. Here are some ideas.

Take a vacation

Wedding gift ideas are made much easier if the couple has a registry since you now know exactly what it is that they wish for, which could be a physical gift, a request for money towards a particular item, their honeymoon or a designated charity close to their hearts. The best anniversary trip is one without children and everyday distractions. If you can afford it, gift a vacation to a beach resort, or a cruise. If it is your anniversary, visit a place that is on your joint bucket list. If your anniversary is in the summer, a Caribbean vacation is best delayed until after hurricane season in November. Winter is also a great time for hitting the slopes of the ski resorts, or you could head south for some sun. May to September is the best time to tour Europe or go to Africa for a safari of a lifetime in June after the rainy season when temperatures are also reasonable.

Make-up and grooming sets

A gift for the couple celebrating an anniversary does not have to be a shared gift, but they can be comparable. A grooming gift set will have him looking good enough to accompany his wife as they go out to celebrate. A grooming gift set can be tailored to his needs, such as a beard care kit or if he likes to look dashing, include a tie, pocket square and cufflinks along with shower gel and fragrance so that he will look handsome in a navy suit. Most women enjoy luxurious pampering. Receiving a makeup gift from her favourite brand means she can try different things. A set of her skincare favourites; a boxed collection of nail polish or lipsticks; a brush set for blending, highlighting or applying shimmer powders; her favourite fragrance in an Eau de Parfum spray, a travel size spray, a rollerball and a body lotion or an eye palette gift set are just some ideas.

Beautiful home décor

A wedding gift for the newly-weds can be home décor items such as matching Mr. and Mrs. Couple cushions or pillows reading ‘Mr Right,’ and ‘Mrs Always Right’. There may be an artist they both like that you can gift a print or original to hang on their wall or a photograph of them both that you can have framed for them. Bouquets are beautiful anniversary gifts, but they do not last long. However, gold dipped roses are the perfect gift between spouses as they symbolise not only passionate love but strength, value and longevity. These are roses preserved at the peak of their natural beauty that are dipped in 24 karat gold and will be an everlasting reminder of your love.

Spa experience

A wedding is a beautiful event that often happens after months of stressful planning. A couples’ spa date at a local luxury hotel is a great gift for the couple to enjoy once the excitement of the wedding is over. Here they can experience a couples’ massage, manicures, pedicures and time in a sauna for a full relaxation experience. A spa experience is also a great anniversary gift for a couple with young children. To take an afternoon off for a relaxing time together is precious. Have family or close friends take care of children. If going out for a spa date is not possible. A spa hamper for him can include an aromatic body soap, body lotion, body massage oil, shave balm, shampoo along with new black and grey towels. A spa basket for her should include her favourite products that help her de-stress and feel relaxed. Along with skincare and beauty products, include a bottle of wine and some chocolate.

Book a Limo

Another great option is to try doing something fancy and book a limo for your special date.  You can book a limo in California here.

Let me know your wedding/anniversary gift ideas below.

FemmeLuxe Try On Haul

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FemmeLuxe Try On Haul

Hi guys,

I got a few more things from FemmeLuxe, do you remember my previous haul? See HERE

The collection is very trendy and apt for curvy girls.

About the collection: From head-turning evening and going out dresses to cute n’ chilled casual day dresses, shop every style from slinky and bodycon, to crepe and bandage. Going out, Everyday Slay, Special Occasion, Date Night, Just Chillin…they have dresses for everything

They also have shoes and accessories like belts, bags, corsets, hair accessories and even some beauty items.

There is a separate trend section where they cover collections as per current trends like ruched, corsets, slogans, snake print, student style, etc.

I picked these 4 things..

1. Peach Frill Sleeve Jumpsuit

I love the colour of this jumpsuit, peach is very fresh and summery. The frill sleeves are also pretty. It doesn’t fit me well and is slightly tight though, especially at the crotch area. I will have to check if it has seams inside.

2. Black Button Up Belted Blazer Dress

This dress is so hot! I love how it curves the body, I wish it was a little longer though. Blazer dresses always look smart and this one is just perfect.

3. Blue Satin Button Up Tie Front Shirt

Satin shirts are a classic, this is my favourite piece because it is so versatile and can be paired with a lot of things from pants, jeans, skirts. I love the bright blue colour, it instantly adds a pop.

4. Button down Denim Dress

This is the cutest denim dress, I wore it with a white crop top inside, again can be paired with a lot of things. Casual cute chic is how I would describe it. Also can wear white sneakers for a more sporty vibe or heels and a fancy top for something more glam.

My favourites are the denim dress and satin shirt. I loved the peach jumpsuit and black blazer dress as well but the size and fit are an issue for me.

They cover all sizes till 12 and some till 14. The quality is pretty good for the price and I will definitely be buying more from Femme Luxe. And I do recommend it.

Have you tried Femme Luxe before? Your thoughts?

Accentuate Your Looks with These Stunning Pieces of Jewellery

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Accentuate Your Looks with These Stunning Pieces of Jewellery

Jewellery has a special place in the heart of every woman. Whether it’s for a beautiful wedding look or for adding life to an everyday outfit, the right accessory can be a game-changer. It automatically enhances the overall look of any outfit you’re wearing. There are some classic jewellery pieces that every woman should own.

Yet settling on the right piece is no less than a herculean task with so many jewellery variations and design options. Explore and find the pieces you most relate to among an endless selection of women’s jewellery online to pick the best ones and make dressing up more fun. Start with these to get into the vintage yet a contemporary world of
jewellery:

Coast a Spell

Indus Coast Earrings

Celebrate the beautiful mix of traditional finery and modern with this cowrie charm. Known to be the symbol of opulence, this pair of earrings mingles with moonstones to bring success into your life. Steal the spotlight when you pair these contemporary earrings with a striking ethnic outfit. The unique shape of every stone makes these
Indus coast earrings as one of its kind! Style Tip- Pair it with a dusty pink short tunic and sharara pants to look like a diva!

‘Bee’ing Classy

Bee Cufflinks (Set of 2)- Antique Brass

Who said cufflinks are just for men? In today’s contemporary world, women are rocking cufflinks effortlessly. Splurge on hand-picked whimsical cufflinks in exquisite stones and metals, much like the rest of your jewellery collection. Get yourself these irresistible cufflinks shaped like bees that will instantly add an urban allure your look. Style these with a casual shirt to add some drama. For an eccentric touch, you can add the cufflinks to your shirt collar. Other than that you can also gift them to your better half for “Bee”ing classy as ever!

Be an Enchantress

Lemon Slice Charm

If you’re the kind who believes in basking in the glory of your individuality, then you’d want a jewellery piece that is just as distinct as you are. This lemon slice charm is a unique piece that you’ll take pride in. Cast in brass and plated in gold, this can be slipped in a simple chain or a hoop, as both a single piece or in multiple looks. Sporting this unique piece will give expression to your quirky self. Let it set you up for raving compliments.

A Dash of Spice

All Spice Necklace

For a picture-perfect combination of sugar and spice that you are, this unique piece of jewellery is going to be a befitting accessory. With all your favourite Indian spice ingredients combined, this will lend a remarkable touch of elegance to your outfit. Cast in brass and plated in gold, this piece too is unique in style and will help you stand out.
Each charm in the link chain might vary in texture but their size and shape remain same making this an exquisite jewellery piece.

Make heads turn at the next wedding or any occasion by wearing these amazing pieces. While shopping, you can look at the amazing women’s jewellery online from premium lifestyle brands like Nicobar that offer enchanting and captivating pieces. These exquisite jewellery pieces are unique and a must-have in your collection. So, whenever you need some enchanting pieces to reform your look, you know where to shop. So, go on and jazz up your look!

Indian Fashion Trends in 2019

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Indian Fashion Trends in 2019

Indian designers have been experimenting to make clothes fuss-free and comfortable and that was one of the highlights of the showing of 2019 spring/summer collection. Many designers showcased clothes where surface texturing was used which add a different look and feel to clothes. There was also a focus on colors as per seasons, fabrics, cuts and embellishments on everyday wear.

Design Trends

If you are bored with the same printed and embroidery trends that have been around, novel design changes are being introduced and they would soon percolate down from the couture to the mass-produced and casual styles. As was evident from what was shown on the ramp, tone on tone shades, and florals on dresses and with high slits as well as drapes that flatter are what would make dresses and clothing different in coming months.

There is a focus on functionality that was evident in what the models were wearing as well. Even though the styles they carried were glamorous and edgy, there is a stress on comfort and being free without too many embellishments or stiff fabrics that weigh down styles.

The Indian fashion scene has also been drawing inspiration from art and museums. This was evident in what was showcased for autumn and winter collections 2019. Inspiring artworks of Dutch artists can be seen reflected on dresses and other clothing forms. Indeed, with the advancement of fabric printing technology, it is akin to magnifying any piece of art and wearing it with all minute details and color impressions intact.

There is a renewed focus on surface texturing along with graphic prints and geometric patterns. These are being made signatures by different designers to separate their works. For instance, many designers are using origami, florals, and geometric patterns besides organza, silk velvets, and taffeta. Many are using design technologies of other cultures. Evident are new patterns such as the Japanese sashiko where hand-cut materials are used along with cutwork layering technique, origami images in three dimensional forms and so forth.

Since casual wear dominates the scene for all seasons, we would be seeing unique combinations such as blazers paired with shorts, puff shoulders in tees, bucket hats as the weather gets colder along with experimental styles like boiler suits and neo gothic styles and patterns. 

Colors in Trend

Corals are the new favorites and have been the focus of summer 2019. With the oncoming of winter and autumn trends, there would be a focus on heavier fabrics such as organza and velvet. These fabrics also bring in scope for embroidery. Quilting work is being seen in print but could take on embroidered forms as well in clothing. Lattice technique, ribbon work, embellished meshes as well as leather flowers are new trends being done on clothing to add unique features to everyday wear.

Challenges for Indian Designers

The online world has changed things in many ways for the Indian fashion industry, as it has for entertainment. Just as Indians would log in to play Leo Vegas India jackpot, many international casino portals are making gambling legal and safe for the Indians. There are several portals where Indians can gamble in their own currency. The same works for the fashion industry. Indian designers are competing on a global forum and their designs need to keep up with global trends. At the same time, originality is what makes a region’s fashion unique. Hence, many fashion designers seek out inspirations from across the globe and blend it in ethnic styles of clothing for Indians. However, the need for everyday, casual styles still dominate and that is where designers need to bring in originality in affordable ways.

Top 3 Basic Steps To Take Care Of Your Skin While Travelling, This Will Change Your Skincare Game

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Top 3 Basic Steps To Take Care Of Your Skin While Travelling, This Will Change Your Skincare Game

Hi guys,

Many of you have often asked how I take care of my skin when I travel or what’s my basic skin necessities while I travel. It’s difficult to carry a load of products when travelling, especially the big, bulky bottles or tools that I use for everyday basics, but I have some tricks that have helped me. Read on to know more…

As you guys know, cleansing the skin is of most importance and for me as it’s very important to remove all the makeup completely and thoroughly. I have mentioned more on skincare and cleansing in my previous post HERE

Further to investing in my FOREO LUNA2 I have never looked back on deep cleansing, as it has really helped my skin remove dirt, clogged pores and prevented blackheads from occurring while being gentle at it and also helps with anti-ageing especially after I hit my 30’s. But it’s quite big to fit in my travel pouch on days when I want to bag pack. However since I can’t live without my LUNA2 and my love for it even when I travel, I thought I should get something handy and travel friendly, so I got myself the FOREO LUNA Play. It’s the size of a macaron that fits well in my bag yet still cleanses the skin powerfully and thoroughly.

My New Mini Travel Cleanser The FOREO LUNA Play

Moving on to the skincare routine, I remove my makeup with a cleansing wipe from KAYA to get rid of all the basic makeup. I go over with a cotton ball and micellar water by Garnier to take off any waterproof makeup remnants that still sticks to my skin. I gradually use the LUNA Play with a facewash by Vichy as the final step, to ensure complete removal of makeup, dirt, grime. When you are travelling and out the whole day, there is a lot of dirt, sweat, pollution etc. in your pores which when not cleansed properly, will result into break outs and damaged skin.

Once the skin is completely cleansed, I use a hydrating moisturizer from Clinique and a toner from Pixi Beauty. But for travel I generally pick sample sachets from dutyfree and use them as and when needed or transfer small quantities from the big containers into small containers to travel with.

Moving on I use Kiehls Eye Cream with avacado along with my FOREO IRIS eye massager around my eye. The IRIS’s two tap eye Tsonic technology helps reduce visible signs of crows feet, dark circle, eye bags and beautifully absorbs all the ingredients from my eye cream. Inspired by the lymphatic eye massages practiced in Asia, the innovative IRIS enhances the visible benefits of this technique beyond the capability of fingertips alone. Its unique T-Sonic technology features 2 modes, each designed to gently massage and smooth the eye contour. Not just that my eye feel completely relaxed after a long day out travelling in the sun and time difference, that often leads to jet lag and I can’t sleep well when I travel and it shows under and around the eyes immediately with dark circles, under eye bags and puffiness.

After My Skin Cleanse I Switch To My FOREO IRIS to relax my eyes

IRIS helps with blood circulation around the eye area, so this is a must have when travelling. You can be rest assured there will be no puffiness or under eye bags if you use every day during your travel.

Lastly, I use a face mist to keep the skin fresh and hydrated. Of course, lots of water to keep the skin and body hydrated internally.

My Travel Skincare Essentials That I Swear By

That’s about it, not too many products but these two tools have definitely helped keep my skin clear and fresh when I travel. Most products I use are definitely towards cleansing as that is the most important step in skin care as I already mentioned.

How do you take care of your skin when you travel? Let me know in the comments.

Picks from Femme Luxe | Try On Haul

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Picks from Femme Luxe | Try On Haul

Hi guys,

I recently came across this website Femme Luxe and loved their collection, especially the prices. It’s a UK based women’s clothing store. They have a wide variety in athleisurewear, co-ords and solid coloured dresses and jumpsuits.

The collection is very trendy and apt for curvy girls.

About the collection: From head-turning evening and going out dresses to cute n’ chilled casual day dresses, shop every style from slinky and bodycon, to crepe and bandage. Going out, Everyday Slay, Special Occasion, Date Night, Just Chillin…they have dresses for everything

They also have shoes and accessories like belts, bags, corsets, hair accessories and even some beauty items.

There is a separate trend section where they cover collections as per current trends like ruched, corsets, slogans, snake print, student style, etc.

I picked 4 things..

1. Black one shoulder Jumpsuit

I love how this jumpsuit hugs the body and is super flattering, the flare makes one look taller. And the belt accentuates the waist. I paired everything with gold hoops and clear heels.

2. Red Bodycon Dress

Their dresses section is pretty vast and has a lot of variety in terms of colours, silhouttes, designs, styles, etc. Again love the fact that it hugs the body beautifully. The fabric is thick enough and not sheer/see through. It is quite comfortable and looks and feels good.

3. Camel Lounge Wear Sets

They have quite a range of colours in lounge wear sets. I picked this camel one. It’s not meant for summers obviously, but it’s great for travel and those airport looks 😀 It’s a perfect travel set and very comfortable again.

4. Khakhi Sweater Jumper

This khakhi cropped sweater jumper goes so well with basic black leggings, again for cold places. You can even wear a thermal inside and it will act as a double layer. Very athleisure for sure.

I loved the black jumpsuit and red bodycon dress, they are great for night time/evening out. And both the lounge wear set and jumper sweater will work for travel/everyday wear in colder climates.

They cover all sizes till 12 and everything fits pretty well. The quality is pretty good for the price and I will definitely be buying more from Femme Luxe. And I do recommend it.

Have you tried Femme Luxe before? Your thoughts?

OOTD: Summer Co-ords | Favourite OOTD | Life Updates | Quitting Youtube?

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OOTD: Summer Co-ords | Favourite OOTD | Life Updates | Quitting Youtube

Hi guys,

I am doing an OOTD post after months, and quite honestly it’s been all about Instagram of late. Bloggers share everything on Instagram/Instagram stories because it’s much quicker, and reaches many more people and instantly. It’s all about instant gratification, and the new apps are giving what the people want or they didn’t know they wanted?!

I just wanted to talk to you guys and pour my heart out. So this post will random bits and pieces of my life along with this outfit and what I feel about Instagram and Youtube.

I shot this outfit last September, yes it’s been a long time and why I haven’t shared it yet? I had downloaded the pictures but never got around selecting and editing them. Usually if I like 3-4 pictures from one outfit shoot, I will share them on Instagram but if I get like 7-8 good pictures and I love all of them, I will share it in a blog post. I used to share all outfit pics here earlier but as I mentioned Instagram is just quicker, talk about being an easy devil :/

Easy it is, devil you guys know how Instagram has been. Since the last few months, I am not enjoying Instagram at all. You must have seen I used to do one post daily and now I am not so active. Sometimes I don’t even share any stories, the only problem is if I am not active for 3-4 days, Instagram reduces my reach and it becomes so bad that when I start posting, for at least about a week, no one can even see my posts on their feed unless I ‘promote’ that post. So Instagram has taken the Facebook route finally, and now your post won’t reach ‘your own’ followers unless you promote it. It’s like I have to forcefully remain active and post something, so that at least the minimum reach it is giving me anyway, that doesn’t get affected.

And as if Instagram wasn’t enough. Youtube is also doing the same. Apparently even if people are subscribed and sometimes have hit the bell icon as well, youtube doesn’t show your videos in their subscriptions or notify them. I have never been super active on Youtube but I am trying to. I go through those phases but in between 3-4 months I think I didn’t post anything at all, and the same thing happened on youtube, some unsubscribed, some aren’t getting my videos. I am currently getting half the views of what I used to get and it’s really discouraging and demotivating especially because Youtube unlike Instagram takes whole day to shoot, edit, etc. and it’s very time consuming. And then when your videos are seen by hardly 100-200 people even though 8700+ are subscribed, I don’t know how to express but it feels terrible and I thought of quitting youtube and not posting anything at all.

Some bloggers have shifted to IGTV because it’s new and that’s why the reach is much better there. I don’t know, all platforms come up with something new and push it for a year and then again same, paid promotions and push for ads to reach people. Same cycle. Everything is a vicious chain.

Instagram recently banned me for 3 days for apparently some copyright issue and nothing else was mentioned in the email which was a general mail and you cannot contact them or ask them about it. It’s so unfair because all my pictures and content are my own, and I hardly post videos or music and it’s all no copyright music even if I use. I contacted them 15-20 times on the app, of course never got a reply and I also asked my facebook account manager but even she couldn’t help. So for 3 days, I couldn’t post or like or comment, could just see the feed, not even stories.

I realized how Instagram can block the account permanently anytime and there is no solution to it. One cannot rely on Instagram and have to keep all other platforms open and need to have one primary platform i.e. blog/Youtube. Again Youtube also can deactivate your channel/account anytime. How we depend for our life/career on these platforms and how unreliable they are, it’s just scary!

I am trying to post regularly again on both Instagram and Youtube, I know I might go through the quitting/demotivated phase again but I don’t know if there is a solution to this. I would really love for you guys to like and comment on my Instagram and Youtube if you watch my videos and see my posts on Instagram, at least I can see some engagement and might help me push myself. That would mean a lot, I only see some people engage during giveaways and I know who they are. And I know people who regularly and genuinely follow me since years, I know your names, I know who you are and thank you for always supporting me. I really need your support again.

Coming to this outfit, this has to be one of my most favourite outfit/shoot I have done. The red orange colour, the co-ords and how flattering they are for my body type. The location/lighting/hair/makeup everything complimented and worked out so well.

The top has statement sleeves and is adjustable from the front, the skirt is well fitted and can be zipped from the side, it was slightly loose on the waist and I had to be careful there 😀 I loved the feather, leaves, circles, polka dots print on it and it screams summer and vacation, perfect for this season

It’s a super simple outfit and I kept the accessories also minimal and simple because I wanted the focus on the outfit. I paired it with my Daniel Wellington watch and pearl earrings and wore my Kendall and Kylie flat slides. (which I now wear everyday! So comfortable)

Co-ords: Free People
Watch: Daniel Wellington
Earrings: Kazo
Slides: Kendall + Kylie

Shot by: Sneha/Ravishing Focus

I hope you liked the outfit, do let me know your thoughts. And what do you think about Instagram/Youtube? Also any engagement would be really helpful and would mean a lot, thank you 🙂