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Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin, Indian Skincare Blog, Beauty Blog

Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

Best Saffron DIY Face Packs to Get Fair & Glowing Skin

By Nidhal

The bright red-coloured, minuscule strands of saffron (called Kesar in Hindi) are exactly what you need to incorporate in your skin care regimen. Saffron is one spice that is capable of burning a hole in your pocket. It is used for adding flavour to dishes. It is a rich source of health benefit nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, foliate and minerals like zinc, potassium and sodium that rejuvenate skin cells and promote the regeneration of new cells. It helps in the removal dark spots and blemishes.

So, let us concoct some skin treats from the comforts of your kitchen using saffron (kesar).

1. SAFFRON, RAW MILK & BESAN MASK

Saffron is an excellent skin toning agent. It helps in eliminating blackheads and unclogs clogged skin pores. Saffron also scavenges free radicals and promotes better circulation of blood, thereby ensuring that skin looks toned and firm.

Raw milk, rich in B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and other potent antioxidants, has innumerable skin benefits! It works to nourish skin cells from deep within and keep skin moisturized for long. Besan is used to cleanse and exfoliate skin.

PROCEDURE- Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for two hours. After that, the colour of the concoction will turn yellow wholly provided the saffron you have used is authentic. Add a tbsp. or two of besan flour and mix well. Apply on your face as well as neck. Let it dry for around 30 minutes and then, wash off. Feel rejuvenated, don’t you?

2. SAFFRON & CURD MASK

Packed with various vitamins such as A, C, and the B vitamins, saffron-the wonder ingredient is known to possess skin brightening properties. Acne and pimples can leave behind scars that take a long time to fade. Using curd and teaming it up with saffron will speed up the process of healing. Sounds exciting?

PROCEDURE- It is as simple as it gets. Just soak 3-4 strands of saffron in a heaped tbsp. of curd/yoghurt for two hours. Post two hours, the concoction will turn yellow completely given that the saffron you have purchased is authentic. Smear it generously on your face as well as neck. Let it dry. It will take around half an hour to dry. After this, wash off your face with adequate cold water.

3. SAFFRON, MILK & SANDALWOOD POWDER MASK

The inherent anti-inflammatory nature of saffron arising from the high presence of antioxidants enables saffron to be used as a potent tool against various skin conditions such as pimples, acne, and Rosacea. To top it all, if we have milk (raw one please) which boosts collagen production, slows down fine lines and wrinkles, protects skin from free radicals that cause premature aging, helps fade dark spots and marks, reduces acne and promotes skin elasticity, you know it’s going to be “Good times” for your largest organ aka your skin. Finally, sandalwood powder owing to its fragrant and soothing aroma will act as the binding agent in this recipe. It also absorbs excess oil off one’s face and neck. Time to cheer oil-skinned ladies, isn’t it?

PROCEDURE-Soak 3-4 saffron strands in raw milk for about two hours. Add a heaped tbsp. of pure sandalwood powder (known as Chandan powder in Hindi) and mix well. Once a smooth and consistent paste id formed, generously daub a fine layer of it on your skin. It will take around 30 minutes to dry solely. Wash off with cold water and admire the newfound glow.

4. SAFFRON, ROSE WATER & COCONUT MILK MASK

The moisture absorbing and enhancing nature of saffron makes it an ideal home remedy for dry, chapped and rough skin. On the other hand, we have rose water (known as Gulab Jal in Hindi) which helps to maintain skin’s pH balance, fight acne, dermatitis and eczema.

Rose water also hydrates, revitalizes and moisturizes skin. It helps to tone one’s skin. It also helps to revitalize aging skin and keeps fine lines at bay. So many virtues rolled into one! Didn’t that get you ecstatic? Add to this, coconut milk needs no elaboration when it comes to moisturisation.

PROCEDURE- In a tbsp. of pure rose water, add 3-4 saffron strands. Let them soak into it for 2 hours. Finally, add a tbsp. of coconut milk. The final/resulting concoction will be predominantly liquid. That goes without saying that application would be messy but do not fret. You’ll be blown away by the results if not immediately then, definitely over a couple of uses periodically.

10 Ways To Get Soft, Pink Lips Naturally | Lighten Dark Lips

10 Ways To Get Soft, Pink Lips Naturally | Lighten Dark Lips

Guest Post by Disha

Who doesn’t want soft, supple, pink lips? We all do! But instead most of us have to suffer with their dryness and pigmentation. This happens because we fail to take care of them. When your lips are dark and dry, they get itchy and you cannot even apply lipstick properly! No one is a fan of that I am sure. To get naturally pink lips one needs to take care of their lips and there are a lot of ways to that. And believe me they are all very easy and can blend into your skin care regime effortlessly. Apart from being doable they are so effective that you wouldn’t even need to use your MAC lipstick in the shade Please Me to give you the appearance of naturally soft and pink lips. So, here are 10 ways in which you can do so.

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the key ladies! It helps get rid of dead skin and dirt. All you need is a toothbrush. Yes a toothbrush has more uses than just brushing your teeth. Just be careful that the one you choose has soft brittles so that it doesn’t hurt your lips. So wet your toothbrush a little and then gently rub it on your lips in circular motions.

2. Choose Lip Balm With SPF

As we all know the UV rays from the sun do harm our skin and for that we apply a sunscreen lotion but do we do something for our lips? No we don’t. Hence, always choose a lip balm that has a decent amount of SPF in it. This way your lips will be hydrated and at the same time protected.

3. Drink Water

I feel drinking water can solve most of your health problems. You need to keep your body hydrated. So drinking 6-8 glasses of water everyday is beneficial for your whole body. But when it comes to your lips, keeping yourself hydrated will moisturize them and make them supple.

4. Milk and Pomegranate

You know how pomegranates have a lot of pigment in them. So why not use them for your lips? This following method with lighten dark lips and give them a natural pink tone. Crush pomegranate seeds and add some cold milk in such a way that when mixed together, a paste like consistency is achieved. Then apply it to your lips. Let it stay and after around 10-15 minutes wash it off.

5. Removing Makeup

Yes we have all heard that never sleep with makeup on but how many of us really follow it? Before going to bed make sure that you have completely taken off the lip liner and lipstick and applied a lip balm. This will hydrate your lips throughout the night. Whereas keeping on lipstick all night long can darken your lips.

6. Lemon and Sugar

This one acts as a scrub as well lip-lightening agent. Take a lemon slice and put sugar on it. Then gently rub this on your lips. Lemon is a good bleaching agent hence it will lighten your lips whereas sugar will exfoliate it. So this combination is enough to make your lips pink.

7. Cucumber Slice

We all know cucumber is very cooling and has a soothing effect. So rub a cucumber slice on your lips which will instantly refresh them and make them pink on doing this frequently.

8. Aloe Vera Gel

This can act as a great lip balm. Take some aloe vera gel and store it in the refrigerator. It helps in soothing your lips, generating new cells and protects from harmful rays of the sun. You can just directly use it as a lip balm everyday.

9. Glycerin and Lemon Juice

Take 2-3 drops of lemon juice and glycerin and mix them together. Use this mixture as an overnight lip mask. While glycerin will hydrate your lips, lemon will lighten it.

10. Coriander Leaves

Take a few coriander leaves and crush them. You can also put in little water/milk if you like. Then apply it on your lips and let it stay for a while. After about 20-30 minutes, wash it off. Coriander leaves help in lightening your lips.

I told you all of them were easy ways! Weren’t they? They are very doable. Choose any method or methods and stick to them. Make sure whichever ones you choose, you follow them regularly for best results. Voila! You got yourself soft and pink lips.

Author Bio: Disha is a passionate health, fashion & beauty enthusiast. She is the founder and editor- in-chief of DivasWorld. Her blog, DivasWorld covers beauty, makeup, fashion and lots more!

Onion Juice For Hair – 5 Benefits & Ways to Use

Onion Juice For Hair – 5 Benefits & Ways to Use

By Nidhal

The list of hair woes is endless. However, there is one wonder ingredient in your pantry that can rescue your mane from all the trouble. It’s none other than the good Ol’ onion. Don’t believe? Have a look at its benefits for your mane. Jot down these benefits of onion for hair so that the next time you suffer from any hair woe that can be combated by use of onion juice, you have something to refer to which will bring you back to me, hopefully thanking me.

1. ARRESTS HAIR FALL- Tried every possible product and home remedy to somehow arrest your crowning glory’s strands fall like wilted leaves off your head? Dissatisfied still? Give a shot to onion juice. Onion is a rich source of sulphur, which is extremely beneficial for healthy hair growth. It prevents hair breakage and accelerates regrowth of hair.

PROCEDURE- Gently massaging the fresh juice of an onion or two onto the scalp helps increase blood circulation, thereby strengthening the hair follicles. Be patient and persistent as I always say. I understand that saying this is a cakewalk and being in the shoes of the person suffering is a Herculean task but stressing will aggravate the situation all the more. Follow the regimen for at least two months twitch a week.

2. BID ADIEU TO PREMATURE GREYING OF HAIR- Does your face pucker on seeing those hideous white strands making a peak-a- boo out of nowhere from your scalp as you stroke your mane with your fingers or spruce it up? Head to the pantry and raid it for an onion. Premature greying of hair is caused as a natural antioxidant- catalase reduces. Onion helps control this problem by increasing catalase. Simply chop an onion (Devdas alert!)

PROCEDURE- Strain it well to remove all the chunks and using a cotton ball dipped wholly into the juice of the onion, slather it generously all over your scalp focussing a little more on the area where you have white hair strands. Wash off your hair after half an hour and shampoo as usual. Since onion juice is entirely liquid, it will be a messy affair. Repeat twice a week for two months and anticipate positive results with bated breath.

3. BID FAREWELL TO SCALP INFECTIONS AND PARASITES- Remember class 8 th science which introduced you to the world of parasites and hosts? Let me save you the hassle of recalling it. Parasites are creatures that ‘live off’ hosts. They derive everything from shelter to nutrition from the host without giving anything positive in return. In other words, the parasite gets to be a free-loader! And we do not entertain such creatures especially if they are on our scalp. To do away with such parasites inhabiting our scalp, this time we will rely upon ‘onions’.

PROCEDURE- Simply grind and sieve them to extract their juice. Mix it with amla powder (which has a rich content of Vitamin C). Apply using a cotton swab and then, wash your hair with plenty water. Onions have anti-bacterial properties which is useful in getting rid of scalp infections and parasites while amla will strengthen the locks.

4. IMPARTS SHINE TO YOUR TRESSES- I tried it once and was thrilled to see how lustrous my locks looked after washing off the juice. The first use itself threw results, however, this point is subjective but there is no denying that onion juice imparts a winsome glow to your mane. Onion belongs to the Allium family and is enriched with sulphur-containing compounds that are responsible for its pungent taste and odour.

PROCEDURE- Simply mix adequate onion juice with reetha powder and curd. Keep it on your hair for about half an hour and then wash off using a mild shampoo and conditioner. Repeat twice a week to acclimatize your hair and scalp to these ingredients. If you wish to add/subtract any ingredient that you think suits your hair, you are welcome to do so.

5. STRENGTHENS YOU MANE- Onion juice is very rich in Sulphur content. Application of the juice to the scalp stimulates and improves blood circulation. Hair grows from the follicles in the scalp. The next time you feel your hair is losing its strength, head no further than your very own pantry.

PROCEDURE- To use, simply chop and strain the juice of an onion. Mix with shikakai powder. Apply on your scalp and rinse thoroughly after half an hour. Shampoo and condition as usual. Repeat twice a week for at least two months.

Editor’s Note: These are some interesting DIY’s Nidhal, I will surely try

Have you tried using onion juice for your hair?

DIY: Get Instant Soft & Glowing Skin for Weddings/Parties, etc | Remove Sun Tan

DIY: Get Instant Soft & Glowing Skin for Weddings/Parties, etc | Remove Sun Tan

Hi guys,

Today I am sharing this quick DIY that I often do before special occasions for that soft and glowing skin!

All you need is a ripe banana, lemon juice and honey.

Take half a ripe banana and mash it really well with a fork, add 1 tsp. honey and 1 tsp. lemon juice and mix it really well.

Apply a thick layer of it all over your face and keep it on for 10 minutes. Wash off with normal water and pat dry.

You will see instant glowing skin!

Let me tell how and why it works..

Bananas are high in vitamin A, B, E and are a good source of potassium, zinc, iron and manganese. They are good for dry and oily skin alike. They are ultra moistuzing and instantly soften the most dehydrated skin. They are also rich in B vitamins and zinc which help to fight free radicals and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C in bananas may also help improve the appearance of dark spots and acne.

Lemon is rich in Vitamin C and citric acid and is full of antioxidants. It helps fade acne scars & blemishes and gives an even skin tone and brighter looking skin. It controls oil and shine to an extent and being anti bacterial also works on acne and blackheads. It also acts as a gentle exfoliator on dead skin cells.

Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin and ensures it’s retained it in the layers for penetrating, long-lasting hydration. It is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, hence helos in calming redness and acne, and also helps to decrease the appearances of scars and increase healing and tissue regeneration

That’s it! Super quick and easy. I hope you like this DIY and try it. Do let me know how it works in the comments below 🙂

DIY At Home Facial with R.K’s Aroma Moringa Facial Kit

DIY At Home Facial with R.K’s Aroma Moringa Facial Kit

Hi guys,

So I did a facial yesterday at home and recorded it for my YouTube channel, I used this R.K’s Aroma Moringa Facial Kit and hence I thought of reviewing it here too and showing you guys the video..

What is Moringa? The super plant Moringa is native to Africa and Asia, and is widespread among the lush, green foothills of the Himalayas. It belongs to the Moringaceae family, and derives its name from the Malayalam word, ‘Muringa’. Its leaves, pods, fruits, flowers and bark are all abundant in restoratory and healing properties, making it a powerhouse of nutrients and anti-oxidants; a bounteous natural agent, generous with its benefits, truly worthy of the moniker ‘miracle tree’.

Benefits of Moringa: Moringa is rich in vitamins C and E, and contains over 30 different natural anti-oxidants, minerals, phytonutrients and natural anti-inflammatory agents that gently soothe the skin. Perfect for everyday use, Moringa prevents the onset of blackheads, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and protects from sun burn and minor skin infections. It softly cleanses the skin without robbing it of its natural radiance, while its anti-ageing properties rejuvenate and bring it to life.

Directions:

1. Clean the face with Moringa Cleansing Lotion to cleanse and minimize the pores.

2. Apply Exfoliating Scrub and gently massage for 5-7 minutes for skin exfoliation. Clean the face with wet cotton. Steam your face for 2-5 minutes.

3. Now take Moringa Cream approximately 3-4gms and add 2-3 drops of Moringa oil and massage for 10-15 minutes. Wipe off the excessive cream with cotton or tissue.

4. Apply Moringa Gel and massage for 5-8 minutes and wipe off the excess.

5. Apply Moringa Mask by mixing it with required amount of water, keep it for 5-10 minutes until it dries off and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

6. Complete your facial by applying Moringa moisturizing lotion.

MRP: Rs. 210/- (Buy HERE)

More R.K’s Aroma Products on Amazon HERE

First off this range smells absolutely amazing, Moringa skincare range is available in many brands and you have must have seen/heard of it before. Even The Body Shop has a Moringa Range.

This pack contains 7 sachets of Cleanser, Scrub, Massage Cream, Oil, Gel, Mask and Moisturizing Lotion. Though it’s a one time use kit, the quantity is enough for two people to use together but you have to use it at the same time since once opened, it is difficult to store sachets.

You can do it with your BFF or your mom or sibling, you can do the facial on each other. Make sure you have no rings, watches, etc., and your hands are bare.

The cleanser is milky white and takes off your basic makeup and cleanses your pores. The scrub is super creamy and glides on the skin really well, the exfoliating beads are not that gritty and feel very comfortable. This scrub would work even for sensitive skin.

I took a steam for about 3-4 minutes and then went ahead with the massage.

You have to mix the massage cream and moringa oil together and then massage it all over your face for about 10-15 minutes. Now this is the main part in any facial. Concentrating on pressure points and going with outward strokes to drain lymphatic fluids from your face and skin. If you are someone who has a bloated face, under eye bags, etc., you have a lot of lymphatic fluids which are not drained properly and a good massage definitely helps in draining those out. Plus boosts your circulation and gives your skin a nice flush and glow.

This is followed by the moringa gel which is again massaged for about 5 minutes. It’s a semi-transparent gel and again glides on the skin really well for a good massage.

Then comes the face mask. It’s in powder form, so needs to be mixed with water and applied evenly all over the face. I kept it for about 10-15 minutes and washed it off.

At last, the moisturizing lotion to complete the facial.

I absolutely loved the results! My skin was so soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. The redness I had before the facial, was all gone in 2-3 hours and it was soothed. Facial results are best seen the next day and my skin is glowing today! If you follow me on Snapchat (bhumika_t), you must have already seen my #NoFilter #NoMakeup bare face selfies and how I am loving my skin!

It also did help in getting rid of a little tan. Overall skin is more brighter and glowing. I definitely suggest checking R.K’s Aroma products and especially this new launch, the Moringa Facial Kit. Many of their products are available on Amazon and I have linked them above.

Pic the next morning..

Usually the skin is a little red on the same day of the facial, but the actual results are seen the next day. I am so loving my skin right now!

Few pointers before any facial:

  • If you have undergone bleach or any face treatment, do not try this for at least 4-5 days
  • Use a sunscreen if you are stepping out after this facial, as your skin might be a little photo sensitive
  • Do not use a face wash for one day, you can wash your face with normal water. You can use a face wash the next day
  • Since all essential oils do not suit everyone, it’s better if you do a patch test on your chin or jaw line first.

All R.K’s Aroma products are pH tested and suitable for sensitive skin. I am a big fan of aromatherapy oils and products and having talked to the owner, I am so curious to try more of their products. They have about 30000 products and the owner Mr. Prakash Shivdasani himself is a chemist and makes these formulations.

Also I am giving away two of these kits to two winners on my YouTube channel, so join HERE.

Have you tried any R.K’s Aroma products/facial kits?

Patanjali Body Ubtan Review

Patanjali Body Ubtan Review

By Nidhal

There are few things as nourishing, relaxing and advantageous for your skin as slathering a rich blend of all-natural ingredients on one’s skin. Nuts ,fruits, herbs… all finely powdered to form an aromatic blend of ‘Ubtan’ is a treat for one’s skin. Not only is one’s skin deep cleansed but also the layer of dead skin cells is exfoliated. Expectations certainly skyrocket when an all-natural Ubtan comes from Patanajali- Baba Ramdev’s pharmacy. It goes without saying that I will review PATANJALI BODY UBTAN today and let you know how it fared for me.

PRICE- Rs 60/- for 100g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE– Add sufficient quantity of water to 20-30 g of Body Ubtan to make a consistent paste. Apply on body. Massage gently. Rinse off with water.

INGREDIENTS- Chironji, red lentil, black gram, barley, mustard seeds, soybean, rice, almond, turmeric and camphor.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Enhances fairness, imparts glow to skin, reduces dark spots and blemishes.

MY EXPEREINCE-

Packed in a simple plastic pack, Patanjali Body Ubtan’s packaging is somewhat disappointing. Why? Once cut open, the contents need to be transferred to a container because 100 g cannot be used in one go. Storing it in the pack in which it comes makes it prone to contamination as well as spillage. While the argument that it costs merely Rs 60/- per pack which is dirt cheap is admissible yet the provision of a zipper pack would have altogether eliminated all these woes once and for all. Hence, there is room for improvement as far as packaging is concerned.

The ubtan is predominantly fine with few coarse granules. They aren’t harsh or abrasive. So, do not fret that your skin will redden on slathering/massaging it. I think it can be conveniently mixed with rose water, raw milk ,curd or any base ingredient for that matter. Adding water is a mere recommendation for the producers which I followed. The paste so obtained has a pleasant and not overpowering aroma. I have used it a number of times and even if kept for more than half an hour, it does not stain your face yellow.

The presence of slightly coarse granules facilitate scrubbing and aid removal of dead skin cells’ layers. Upon removal, my skin looks squeaky clean, deeply cleansed and radiant. It does not suck moisture off one’s skin and that spells cheer for those with dry/excessively dry skin. I can’t comment on its efficacy or the lack of it when it comes to oil removal for oily/excessively oily skin type. Mine is dry and it hasn’t made my skin dry post wash ever. That said, it doesn’t even moisturise it either which I have no issues with because it doesn’t claim to do so.

I find it suitable for use by all skin types. If you are on a shoestring budget, grabbing a few packets of this won’t even pinch you. This one’s a good investment in my humble opinion 🙂

GOOD-

1. Budget-friendly

2. Readily available

3. Deep cleanses skin

4. Does not suck moisture hence, apt for dry and extremely dry skin types

5. Imparts radiance and NOT fairness which is plausible

6. Imparts a squeaky clean feel

7. All-natural composition

8. Apt for use by all skin types

BAD-

1. Packaging needs to be revamped.

RATING-4.5/5

Editor’s Note: This sounds very good Nidhal, definitely in my Patanjali haul list.

Have you tried the Patanjali Body Ubtan yet?

DIY Eyeshadow Primer

DIY Eyeshadow Primer

By Simran

We have all been new to the makeup world some time or another and learnt everything by trial and error. One thing which comes in the mind of a person new to makeup is; affordable makeup products since they haven’t mastered any techniques and hence need affordable options to experiment and learn with.

And for anyone trying their hands on eye shadows, is to get a good eye shadow primer, that should be the prime objective. An eye shadow primer acts as a base for your eye shadow, makes the pigmentation of the eye shadow more visible and helps in the staying power of the eye shadow on your lids.

However, there aren’t many affordable options available in the Indian market. When I started using eye shadows, there were barely any primers available, even the costly ones.

So, I DIY-d my very own eye shadow primer and used it for ages till I got an actual eye shadow primer from the market. Hopefully, this will help anyone new to makeup or someone who wants to save some bucks on an eye shadow primer.

It consists of basic things which we all have lying around anyways. It works the same as any eye shadow primer in the market would.

What you’ll need: 

  • Foundation
  • Concealer
  • Body Butter or Thick Moisturizer
  • Empty and Clean Tub
  • Toothpick

Starting with, you’d want to sanitize the tub you want to keep your primer in.  I have used this old lip balm tub and sanitized it. You can even buy empty tubs similar to these online.

Step1

Initially, you want to pour some foundation in the tub, the foundation is the base of the product so you should use the most of it depending on how much eye primer you want to make. I am using this Foundation by the body shop in my eye shadow primer.

Step2

Next, put in a little concealer, use it lesser than the foundation, half than how much foundation you used to be precise. It will help in adding that little brightness in your eye shadow primer. I am using this Deliplus concealer I had got from Spain.

Step3

Finally, put a bit of body butter or thick body lotion, you shouldn’t use a light/thin consistency moisturizer since it would make the consistency of your eye primer runny.

The ratio of the moisturizer/body butter should be same or teeny less than the concealer.  What the moisturizer does, is to retain the moisture on your lids underneath all that eye shadow. I am using this parachute body lotion.

The ratio you want to work in is 2:1:1 that is 2 parts foundation, 1 part concealer and 1 part moisturizer.

Step4

Mix it well with the help of a toothpick and store it away well. Always use a brush to apply the product to avoid spreading any germs and always pat some powder on top of the eye shadow primer to help it not to crease.

I wouldn’t really recommend making huge batches of the eye shadow primer. Make a batch that’ll not last you more than 1-2 months. You require a really small amount for each use.

Done

I have used this eye shadow primer for more than 8 hours and it lasted me without creasing or fading my eye makeup.

Editor’s Note: That sounds like a good eye primer. I would also recommend adding a little glycerine in place or addition to the body butter, just a tiny amount.

Have you tried DIYing eyeshadow primer?

Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

Summer Skin Care Tips & Home Remedies

By Rashmi

Hello lovelies,

Summers are back and with a bang. Nobody likes summers as they bring with them innumerable skin woes. But don’t you people worry. I have got it all covered for you people with easy solutions to keep your skin fresh and glowing. Thank me later

1. SUNSCREEN –

Use sunscreen whenever you are going out and make sure it is at least SPF 30 or choose from what suits you. Sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent it from getting damaged.

2. CLEANSER –

The cleanser helps to unclog pores and it should be used as a part of a skincare regimen. During summers it becomes even more important to use a cleanser as the skin becomes lifeless and the pores get clogged. Make your own cleanser by mixing yogurt and honey. Apply it on your face and let it stay for 20 minutes and then wash it off to get clear skin.

3. EXFOLIATE –

Exfoliation is a must for the skin. Dead skin needs to be removed as they make the face look dull. Make your own exfoliator by mixing oatmeal, honey, and milk. Apply it on the face and let it sit for 10 mins then start scrubbing the face gently with wet hands. Scrub slowly for 5 minutes and then wash it off with water.

4. TONER-

Toners make you feel refreshed instantly. Make a refreshing toner by simply mixing cucumber juice with rosewater. Store it in the refrigerator to give it a longer life. Though use it only for a week and then make a new one. Carry it with yourself when going out. Spray it on your face to give your face instant relaxation.

5. MOISTURISE –

This step is what many people avoid during summers. Change your moisturiser to an oil-free one. Moisturisers are required by the skin in every season. It becomes even more important to use a moisturiser after exfoliation to lock the nourishment back into the skin. Mix your night serum with your moisturiser and apply it to your face to give the skin all the goodness that it needs.

6. KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED –

Drink as much water as you can. During summers this is certainly the most important thing. Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day. And do not wait for your mouth to get dry. Try drinking refreshing juices like watermelon juice or lemon water.

RANDOM SKIN CARE TIPS-

1. Rub ice all over your face to instantly soothe your skin. But make sure you cover it with a muslin cloth, never apply ice directly to your skin.

2. Apply calamine lotion to soothe skin rashes.

3. If you are out of toner, simply apply cold rosewater on your face to calm and soothe the skin.

4. Avoid oily and fried food. Include lots of fruits and veggies in your diet.

Editor’s Note: These are such basic things Rashmi, but we always tend to take them for granted. Articles like these remind me to follow things sincerely. One thing I would like to add and which I also follow is carrying a thermal spring water and spritzing it time and again, be it Avene, Vichy, La Roche Posay,etc.

Image Source: 1,2,Getty

Do you follow all these summer skin care tips?

Step By Step Description of How to Do Hair Spa At Home

Step By Step Description of How to Do Hair Spa At Home

By Sanchita

The idea behind the hair spa is to rejuvenate and protect the hair. Yes, the good old warm oil massage and mild shampoo followed by conditioner is the regular or weekly routine carried on by us to protect and condition the hair. But, apart from that the hair needs specific care and rejuvenation by the process of hair spa. Now, hair spa is not necessarily done in parlors or hair care institutions and can be easily carried on at home with specific and easy available ingredients at your own volition. So you need not spend valuable money or time at the spa session every time. Let us see the step by step description of how to do hair spa at home.

1. Hair Oil

When you are going to devote yourself to the self-spa session, avoid using the readymade oils from the market which are nothing but merely mineral oils. So it will do no good to the hair. Use a concoction of hair oils like coconut oil, castor oil, almond oil and olive oil. The mixture should be 4parts coconut oil, 1 part castor oil, 2 parts almond oil and 3 parts olive oil. You can add other essential oils like argan, rose, ylang ylang or lavender as per your choice. Warm up the oil in a double boiler (no direct heat) and you can also add various herbs as well. For e.g. dried amla, methi seeds, neem leaves, hibiscus leaves paste, etc. can also be added in the warm oil which will further strengthen the hair. The hair oil is the vital step and best if it is done for.

2. Through massage

While the oil is the most important ingredient, the massage is the process which completes the procedure partly. Simply applying the oil won’t do so make sure you dedicate a good amount of time to massage the scalp well. Do not vigorously rub the scalp but merely run the fingers in a circular motion covering the whole area of the scalp. Massaging is essential as it improves blood circulation in your scalp area. You should massage your hair for 10 to 15 minutes. It helps relax the scalp and increase softness. It further aids in strengthening the roots of the hair and nourishes the hair-shafts, promoting new hair growth and strengthening current hair.

3. Warm Towel

If you have applied the oil a night before, then apply the warm towel in the morning and if you have applied the hair oil in the morning, do this at least an hour or two post oil massage. Dip a towel in warm water (just make sure not to burn the hand) and wrap it around the hair. In general, salons use a stream machine but the warm towel will surely do the trick. Warmth open up the pores on the scalp and thus it gets all the benefits of the oil. Also, it cleanses the scalp thoroughly, thereby promoting healthy hair growth.

4. Henna Mask

There are several hair masks available for hair and you can include the ingredients like ripe banana, eggs, curd, mayonnaise, etc. but I would suggest henna. Personally I have benefited a lot from the henna hair packs and it works like wonder. Henna is an age old method widely used in Ayurveda for treating hair and scalp problems. It is one of the best natural remedies for hair growth, helps to prevent dandruff and scalp itching. It acts as a good conditioner for your hair and helps to grow your hair. Mix the henna powder in the form of a paste with the help of curd or lemon and simply apply on the hair.

5. Shampoo

Once the hair mask is dried or after 40-50mins, wash off the mask with plain water. The rinsing will be easy as the hair as already well-nourished with oils. Next, move on to the main process of shampooing the hair. Try and use a SLS and PARABEN free shampoo which is mild and easy on the hair. Using a harsh chemically enriched shampoo means whatever effort you gave would go down the drain and the hair will be frizzy, rough and unmanageable. Shampoo will cleanses off every layer of dirt, grime, dandruff or any other residual substances on the hair, including the hair oil and hair pack. Although, the hair would retain the benefits for sure. One of the most important thing is that, rinsing off the shampoo is very important. A lot of people do apply it correctly and massage onto the scalp but forgets to rinse it out.

6. Conditioner

After the shampoo, apply the conditioner to the length of hair and keep it for around 2-3mins and no longer than that. Make sure the conditioner doesn’t slips onto the scalp and gets rinsed out properly after the shampoo.

7. Leave in Serum

This is the last step but I would call it optional. Since I have curly and dry hair, I always apply a leave in serum to make it manageable and frizz free but it is completely up to you. Also, I would not advise this step if you have thin and flat hair because it may weigh the hair down as the hair has already been conditioned since step 1.

These are the ways you can easily carry on the hair spa at home without shelling big bucks and also at our own convenience.

Editor’s Note: Absolutely loved this post Sanchita. This is the ideal procedure, wish I was not that lazy and time crunched :/ But even once a week or once in 2 weeks, following this routine would be amazing.

Image Sources: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8

Do you do hair spa at home?

DIY Homemade Hair Mask for Strengthening Hair

DIY Homemade Hair Mask for Strengthening Hair

By Nidhal

One can never run short of ways or ideas to pamper their crowning glory. There is a hairstyle or hair cut that you’d been thinking of getting at any point of time. There’d be those accessories that you’d be dying to experiment with. There would be hair products that you would have played with to give your tresses that bounce of life. But amidst all this, being Indians, we cannot never turn a blind eye to our Good Ol’ home remedies, can we?

So, why not treat our hair to the bountifulness of natural ingredients today and drool over them all over again? March straight to the pantry for there lies your paraphernalia for this DIY recipe.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED-

1. CURD- Enriched with the bountifulness of lactic acid, curd/yoghurt (called Dahi in Hindi) helps to eliminate dandruff, foul smell and dullness. It adds unprecedented gloss and softness that you just can’t get over.

2. TULSI POWDER- Being a plant that has been revered in Hinduism for centuries, Tulsi has benefits galore for your mane. It treats lice, dandruff, itchiness and scalp infections. Yes, your granny was right when she said that Tulsi is a miraculous plant. No questions asked anymore!

3. ALMOND OIL- Being a storehouse of Vitamin E, almond oil helps in locking moisture and adding that enviable sheen to your locks. Prefer organic/cold-pressed almond oil and not the ones that are laden with mineral oil. In my opinion, Almendrop 100% pure almond oil is a wise choice.

4. METHI/FENUGREEK POWDER- Now comes the wonder ingredient which cannot be done without. Methi helps to add shine in addition to imparting softness. It also accelerates the rate of growth of hair which spells cheer for those ladies waiting anxiously to flaunt long luscious locks. Opt for methi powder for grinding is a tad cumbersome and finely grinding takes patience (which sadly, today is a lost virtue).

PROCEDURE-

1. In a clean and dry bowl, add 5-6 tbsp of curd. This is the amount for shoulder length hair. Increase if you have longer hair.

2. Add 3 tbsp each of methi and tulsi powder.

3. Add half a tbsp. of almond oil

4. Mix well thoroughly to form a smooth and consistent paste.

5. Apply generously all over your scalp as well as length (of hair).

6. Wash off after 45 minutes with a mild herbal/organic shampoo. Condition if you feel the need to do so.

7. Repeat twice a week to expedite the results and acclimatise your scalp to these natural ingredients.

That is all for now, folks. Feel free to post your queries and results with me through the ‘comments section’ and try this DIY recipe to get locks which you cannot stop drooling over.

Pssst… It compels you to keep stroking your fingers down your mane intermittently!

Editor’s Note: This sounds really good Nidhal and methi and tulsi are very good for dandruff too. I am definitely trying this, have to get methi and tulsi powder now.

Have you tried this DIY before? If not, do so and let us know how you find it.