Mortified of those pesky pimples making a peek-a- boo every time you have to get ready and paint the town red or when you have an indispensable event and you just can’t miss it? Exhausted with trying every over-the –counter trick or product on those acne scars of yours that have sworn never to leave your skin? Dissatisfied with every spot/blemish removal cream in the market which promises you flawless skin within minutes but ends up burning a hole in your pocket in a minute instead of doing what it actually promised to?
To tackle all these woes, let us simply turn back to Nature. The wonder ingredient that we would be relying upon today to preen ourselves is none other than the 5 lettered word whose benefits would surpass your imagination- METHI.
1. METHI POWDER, CURD & ROSE WATER MASK
Apart from reducing cholesterol, preventing diabetes and increasing breast milk, fenugreek aka Methi seeds and leaves are widely used in Indian households. Curd works well to remove dryness, tan and dullness off your skin. Rose water works wonders as a toner. And do I need to say more on its heavenly aroma? Naah! You guys might already by picturing it being sprayed on your skin while you unwind during your weekend spa (or at-home spa session) by now, right?
PROCEDURE- In a clean and dry blender, grind 4-5 tbsp of methi seeds till a fine powder is obtained. In one heaped tbsp. of methi powder, add a tbsp. of curd and adequate rose water to liquefy the concoction slightly. Do not add rose water in excess because curd too has whey which being a liquid will make the process of application arduous if rose water is added with abandon.
Mix well, apply on your face and neck. Avoid eye area. Wash off after 15 minutes with ample cold water. This pack will give you instantly brightened skin.
2. METHI POWDER & NEEM DECOCTION MASK
Vitamin A housed in fenugreek (methi) and incorporated in cosmetic products can treat a variety of skin disorders like acne, eczema, psoriasis and blackheads. Neem, by the virtue of having antimicrobial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties helps you bid adieu to pimples and acne. Guess what a combo of the two can do to your skin?
PROCEDURE- In a heaped tbsp. of methi powder, add sufficient neem water and mix well to form a smooth paste. Preparing neem water is a piece of cake. How? Just boil 8-9 Neem leaves in half a litre of water on the stove. When the colour of the water changes to dark green, switch off the stove. Let the water cool. Strain the water and discard the leaves. You water is ready! Told you it was a cakewalk.
Apply the mask on your face and neck. Let it dry. Wash off with cold water. Repeat once daily. This mask is a Holy Grail mask for those with oily skin.
3. METHI POWDER, BESAN FLOUR, HALDI & MILK MASK
The antioxidant properties of vitamin C in methi can help you from UV rays and prevent aging wrinkles. Fenugreek is rich source of vitamin K. Assorted properties in vitamin K help to treat stretch marks, spider veins, fade scars and reduce dark circles. Besan works to sort sallow complexion and Haldi (I recommend Amba Haldi and Kasthoori Manjal for both of them are specifically meant for skin care and not for cooking). Milk is enriched with lactic acid hence, helps in lightening one’s scars, spots and marks.
PROCEDURE- In a heaped tbsp. of methi powder, besan and a pinch of haldi, add adequate amount of milk to forma consistent paste. Mix well. Apply on your skin. Let it dry and then wash off with cold water.
Editor’s Note: These are some really good DIY masks, would surely try some.
I have been trying out a few products from Pixi Beauty since the past few weeks, I think I am half done with both the day and night cream and here are my thoughts on the complete range..
Glowtion Day Dew Cream
Claims: A lightweight, radiance-boosting moisturizer that soothes while blurring imperfections & giving a lit-from-within glow.
Advanced illuminating skin-perfector nourishes & soothes while giving a boost to dull skin
• Featherlight and hydrating, this moisturizer imparts a natural-looking radiance to skintone
• Makes skin look healthier & more even
• Lavender oil calms, kaolin purifies, and mica brightens
• Not tested on animals
How To-Apply
• Use: In the AM
• Step 1: Apply a thin layer to cleansed, toned skin
• Step 2: Dab an extra layer anywhere more glow is desired
Claims: A nourishing night treatment to comfort and soothe skin
This fast-absorbing, nutrient-rich nighttime essential helps to protect, nourish, and hydrate skin while you sleep
• With 100% natural mango butter
• Oils of lavender, lemon & bergamot
• Cream calms and balances skintone
• Not tested on animals
How To-Apply
• Use: PM
• Step 1: Apply a thin layer to cleansed, toned skin
• Petra’s recommendation: For best results, layer on top of Overnight Glow Serum
Both the Glowtion Day Dew and Beauty Sleep Cream come in a sleek and long tube packaging but has a nice, pump dispensor with a cap on top. I carried both of them when I was travelling and they are perfectly safe for travel and very handy.
I quite like the packaging, very convenient and easy to use.
Coming to the product, Glowtion Day Dew is a white colored cream with very fine shimmer particles in it and a lot of them! That is the reason it gives that day glow. I like using it under a makeup base though, when used on it’s own, it gives a shine to the entire face and it can look oily at times.
Even though the Day Dew has mica and kaolin which absorbs oil and it is on the drier side, i.e. the cream is not very rich and feels dry on the skin, the shimmer gives that shiny look. Dry skin girls will like using this because of the dewy finish it gives, might not work for oily skin on it’s own. But this is excellent as a makeup base and I am using it every single time!
The Beauty Sleep Cream on the other hand is very light weight and blends and absorbs in a jiffy. I love the mango butter feel and lavender oil scent, it smells really good and I love using this each night! It does moisturize but it is nothing like rich night creams, so if you are used to those, you might needed an added oil for extra hydration.
I sometimes just add the Glow Mist on top. It is one of the lightest night creams I have used.
Both have a different colored pump, so it is easy to identify as their body packaging is similar.
The only con for both of these would be the quantity, 35ml I feel is quite less for the price. Even though the brand is premium, a little extra quantity would have been great.
24K Eye Elixir
Claims: An anti-fatigue peptide serum that that massages away puffiness as it smooths and refreshes the eye area
• This multitasker is infused with powerful age-defying ingredients to refresh eyes & prevent signs of fatigue
• Collagen helps to repair the delicate eye area, peptides plump fine lines, and raspberry tones skin
• Cooling rollerball applicator soothes & encourages circulation around the eye
How to Apply
Use: AM & PM
• Step 1: Gently roll applicator under eye, from inner to outer corner, 2 to 3 times
• Step 2: For extra de-puffing, chill before use
This is very handy and easy to use, I love these roller ball eye elixirs/pens. It has a steel roller ball and dispenses very little product, enough for one roll from left to right and then from right to left. There is no wastage of product.
Now this doesn’t claim anything related to dark circles, it is for puffiness and fine lines. So don’t expect it to work on dark circles, it won’t. I don’t have fine lines, so can’t talk about that. But I haven’t had puffiness under my eyes or under eye bags, since the time I am using it.
If you suffer from bloating or have excess salt at times, there would usually be puffy bags under your eyes. And if you have those often, I would suggest getting this and keeping it in your fridge and using it morning and night. You will notice an immediate difference.
I quite like it, works as per claims.
Glow Mist
Claims: All-over glow mist for a radiant, dewy effect.
• Gives a glowing, luminous and smooth complexion
• Enriched with 13 natural oils plus propolis, aloe vera and fruit extracts
• Hydrates, protects and nourishes
• Sets makeup, adds a dewy finish and protects skin
• Refreshes makeup, hydrates and adds glow
• Suits all skin types
• Not tested on animals
How to apply:
• Use: In the AM and PM or when needed
• Step 1: Shake to mix
• Step 2: Close eyes and mist over face & neck
I think the Glow Mist is my most favourite out of all these four products and also something I have used the most.
I use it morning, night, after makeup, etc., and each time gives a nice, dewy, glowy finish to the skin. After my skincare routine and after my makeup too.
It takes away all the powdery-ness when used after makeup, and sets it in place. It can also be used mid time to refresh your makeup.
Since this is not just thermal spring water and has a blend of different essential oils in it, it hydrates and nourishes and that’s what helps in that glowing skin.
I absolutely love this and highly recommend this.
My favourites/must haves are the Glow Mist and the Beauty Sleep Cream, followed by the Eye Elixir and the Glowtion Day Dew.
Pixi Beauty products are available on their website pixibeauty.co.uk and pixibeauty.com, Target and they also have their own stand alone stores.
Top Natural Face Serums in India, Prices, Buy Online
By Nidhal
Given the amount of pollution, grime, grunge and contaminants our skin is subjected to on a quotidian basis, smearing a chemical-laden cream/lotion/moisturizer would exacerbate the fettle of our skin. That’s truism, duh! Even opting for a chemical-free cream/lotion/moisturiser 24*7 may not be the sanest of choices if one has oily/acne-prone skin.
Going minimalist by zeroing in on a facial serum which does away the need to spruce one’s face every now and then, seems a viable option, doesn’t it? On that note, given the torrent of facial serums inundating the markets today, you can steer clear of them and instead opt for the following chemical-free all-natural facial serums to satiate the needs of your skin!
1. Khandige Organics Kumkumadi Tailam – Operating from Electronic City of India aka Bengaluru, Khandige Organics has certificates in galore under its belt to boast off. Offering not just cosmetic products which presently span over hair oils (such as- Bhringamalkadi Tail, Doorvadi Oil, etc) and a kumkumadi face serum, you can unleash the conscious foodie in you while checking out their enticing range of edibles such as- Chawanprash, Ashvagandha Rasayana, Brahmi Rasayana, Amlaki Rasayna, so on and so forth.
The Kumkumadi Tailam from Khandige’s range is by far, the most budget-friendly oil in India given its efficacy. With a deep orange hue that works wonders for Indian skin shades, a month long use is bound to clear one’s complexion notably provided you don’t suffer from serious skin infections. A subtle aroma lulls you into a good night’s sleep while the awe-inspiring ingredients in it work their magic. Felicitous for use by all skin types, it is free from fillers, chemicals and preservatives of any kind. Formulated with pure saffron, this luxurious oil helps in smoothening out fine lines and fading spots/blemishes overtime. An indispensable beauty treatment to indulge in, one needs to give it a shot for sure!
2. Tarika Night Oil Saffron- One may run out of reasons on why Tarika Ayurlabs is inimitable but all those reasons even when clubbed won’t do justice to how efficacious, ethereal and addictive their all-natural, chemical and toxin-free products are! Operating from the picture-perfect Pondicherry, years of experience, and hours of single-minded dedication as well as brainstorming on how to blend and what to blend go into the preparation of each of their product.
Coming to their facial serums which are offered in four variants at present namely- rose, lavender, saffron and jasmine, it is Tarika Night Oil Saffron that swept me off my feet. Thanks to the timely recommendations by the team that runs this toxin-free brand, I tweaked my skin care regimen and could see the results within a week! Isn’t it incredulous?
Healthy, luminous and clearer skin vis-à- vis what it was a week ago, I need to say this that I would kill for another bottle of this magical elixir! It is truly praiseworthy. That said, let me clear the air that my skin care regimen has been completely free from chemicals for years, so it is tacit that I would note results sooner vis-à- vis a person who loads chemicals on their face/neck.
All in all, the bottom line is that this brand has churned out yet another winner (something they have a habit of doing) and deserves hats to be doffed at it for treating us to quality- products. Kudos!
3. Brown Boi’s Jojoba oil- To all those getting confounded with each passing minute thinking what to add to your shopping carts head to Brown Boi! A leading essential oil manufacturer, this vibrant enterprise may be the youngest kid on the block (merely a few months old!) but it has in itself to give all the big fishes a run for their money. Offering pure therapeutic grade essential oils, their range of carrier oils- all cold-pressed and packed aesthetically, are a sight to behold (as well as covet).
The simplest of all, Brown Boi’s Jojoba oil is ‘Food for Your Skin’. Overflowing with Vitamins B and E, it helps lighten dark spots and minimize the appearance of pores. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help fight dandruff, dry skin, acne and wrinkles. Obtained via the cold-pressing of jojoba nuts, it has a thick consistency and an uplifting aroma. Ideal for use by all skin types and also in DIY preparations/remedies, it is the simplest, most no-nonsense and soothing face elixir you can envisage. Add essential oils from the same brand or use it individually, with Brown Boi in your beauty arsenal, your skin is going to be pampered to the hilt! Bask in its virtues. Psss…It won’t cost you an arm and a leg too.
Price- 199/- INR for 10ml, 249/- INR for 15ml and 399/- INR for 30ml (Buy HERE)
4. Inatur Herbals’ Kumkumadi Tailam – Incepted in 2007 by Ms. Pooja Nagdev, a cosmetologist and an Ayurveda expert, Inatur Herbals (pronounced INA-TUR) is on our list. In its inimitable name, I stands for Innovation and NATUR stands for Nature. NATUR in Spanish also means nature. Offering Silicones, Parabens, Phthalates, harmful or synthetic fragrances-free and GMP/ISO & HALAL certified products, their eclectic range is expanding and that simply gives your skin and hair, reasons to get exhilarated. The aroma of their enticing products is based on pure essential oils.
Coming to their range, the one that caught my fancy was Inatur Herbals’ Kumkumadi Tailam. The 100% natural formulation sinks effortlessly into your skin (given that you massage it well which is a no-brainer), soothes dry patches and leaves your skin well-moisturised for long. It goes without saying that luminous skin can be eagerly anticipated by you once you devote your time and effort to this miraculous oil. Application every night for at least a fortnight will certainly leave your singing paeans in its honour. It is not at all greasy, travel friendly and comes with an easy to use dropper bottle. It can be used directly on the skin (3-4 drops) or mixed with cream/lotion. A unisex beauty oil available readily on Flipkart, Myntra, Nykaa, Purplle, Voonik, MSM, Firstcry, Paytm, Shopclues, Homeshop, Big Basket, etc. it wins my vote of approval.
5. BLUE NECTAR- As much as their aesthetically-packed products may entice us, we cannot turn a blind eye to how efficacious their deftly and assiduously crafted products are! Offering luxurious hair oils, relaxing body massage oils and nourishing facial serums- all of which are based on Ayurvedic principles, Blue Nectar is here to sweep you off your feet.
Coming to the facial serum from their tempting range, the one that became the apple of my eyes instantaneously was Blue Nectar’s Kumkumadi Serum. For those who have a predilection for relying on our ancient recipes as far as skin care is concerned, Blue Nectar picks up the gauntlet to package and present an ancient Ayurvedic formulation in a contemporary way. Their kumkumadi serum sends you into an illusory world where your olfactory senses are well taken care of, rather I should say cast a spell over and your skin, pampered to the hilt. An inimitable blend of herbs and oils to keep one’s skin youthful and vibrant, it works effortlessly to minimise fine lines. With the mantra of ‘A little goes a long way’ being the cornerstone of their kumkumadi tailam/serum, do not repine for a single bottle needs to be used sparingly.
Best Herbal/Natural Face Masks for Acne & Acne Scars in India, Prices, Buy Online
By Nidhal
To say that we all are subjected to the vicissitudes of weather would be truism. To say that we all bear the brunt of those weather changes that shows on our skin is yet again sooth. While we may have a multitude of quick-fix solutions at our disposal yet for those who do not eye quick results but rather long-lasting and non-toxic results, it makes sense to zero in on face masks that are not only devoid of deleterious chemicals but also infused with the virtues of natural ingredients in their virgin form.
On that note, here is a list of those face masks available in India that would help you bid farewell to zits/spots/marks.
1. Tarika Ayurlabs – At Tarika, the endeavour is to be as faithful to the principles of Ayurveda as possible. Right from the procurement of herbs to the packaging stage, there is indubitable synergy in the combination of herbs. The manufacturing process described in detail in Ayurveda is followed conscientiously sans taking shortcuts. No chemicals, preservatives or additives are added to the products. Incepted in 1995, the glorious enterprise’s owners realised that even though Ayurveda is a vast ocean of goodness to be delved into, not much attention is given to it by the government, policy makers and people at large.
Coming to their eclectic range, it is Tarika’s Pimple/Acne Removers mask that has me smitten. Claiming to treat stubborn acne, its inimitable formula was developed in 1996. Proven to be efficacious for all types of skin throughout the year, it is a 100% natural product. Shipped all over India, everything about it is impressive. It certainly cleared out my skin within a short span of time. I don’t have acne hence, can’t comment on its efficacy to tackle it yet I am certain of its bountifulness. Wondrous, I say!
2. Kan’s Natural Beauty Care- Mrs. Kanchana S Babu’s all-natural, preservative and artificial- fragrance free venture, all the way from Chennai has all the reasons to be on our list. Keeping an eye on each and every facet of her products right from sourcing her ingredients to the composition of the products, she is an encyclopaedia of home remedies. Incredibly patient to lend an ear to your skin/hair woes, she recommends products on the basis of what would work for you rather than force a product down your throat.
From her bewitching range of chemical-free products that span hair masks, face masks, hair oils and body scrubs, what caught my eye was the Kasturi Anti Pimple Face Pack which is made of 100% natural ingredients. Its natural ingredients include sandalwood, Vetiver, Rose petals and Neem, all of which are great anti-bacterial agents that control even the most severe of pimples and reduce marks and blemishes. Apt for use by everyone, it helps one achieve a more even and luminous skin tone overtime. For the price you are paying, you surely are getting a value-for- money product!
PRICE- 195/- INR for 50g
AVAILABILITY- Facebook
3. Raw Rituals- Composed of sandalwood powder, lodhra bark extract, ginger lily powder, fuller’s earth powder, wild turmeric powder, nutmeg powder and Aloe vera powder, Raw Rituals’ Tarditional Healing Face Pack spells luxury from the word go! Owned and operated by the courteous Mrs. Lovina Agarwal from the Manchester of India aka Ahmadabad, Raw Rituals’s range of products is not only chemical-free but also handmade and vegetarian.
With the aroma of their products attained by the virtue of addition of pure therapeutic grade essential oils, your nose won’t have to crinkle into folds in utter repugnance when a tub/pot/bottle of their product is opened. Rather, brace yourselves for you will be swept off your feet.
Apt for use by all skin types, it not only fades blemishes overtime (realistically) but also imparts a winsome glow temporarily which is augmented, if used regularly. Packed scrupulously in an aesthetic and travel-friendly package, it can be carted conveniently while travelling.
4. Quinta Essentia Organics- A little biased towards my fellow Delhi-ites, Quinta Essentia Organics- an organic skin, body and hair care venture is helmed by the lovely duo- Ms. Arti and Atika Gaur. No points for guessing, it is based out of Delhi and churns out indulgences.
No, I won’t call them “products”. They are far above than mere products. At the helm of affairs, is Arti who holds years of experience and a degree in Ayurveda from Dhyan Foundation. With a degree in biotechnology, comes Atika into the picture. Conscious consumers as the two call themselves, we cannot help but gawk at their drool-worthy range of indulgences spanning- body butters, cold-pressed soaps, hair masks, body oils, lip butters, mineral makeup, chawanpraash (formulated as per ancient Ayurvedic texts and wildcrafted/certified organic ingredients), sun veil, organic lip sticks and so on.
From their enticing range, what caught my fancy was the Olive Clay Soap. Packed in a tub which may confound one and all, it comes in a semi-liquid form and takes just a few minutes to work its magic. For use on damp skin, the time limit is 20 minutes whereas for those using it like a face wash, restrict it to 5-7 minutes. Post washing, it not only clears your skin tone instantaneously but also imparts a tinge of luminosity that looks incredulously natural- something most makeup products also fail in eliciting!
PRICE- 1,200/- INR for 70g
AVAILABILITY- Facebook
5. Vedantika Herbals- With a range that encompasses not only beauty products but also health food, Vedantika Herbals is here on our list. Known to keep the ingredients’ list of their products minimal, their beauty care range of products spans a body polishing ubton/ubtan, anti-aging face mask, skin glow mask, anti-acne mask amongst others. Shipped all over India, their beauty care products are packed in aesthetic bottles that make them handy as well as durable. Adding no nasties like- parabens, sulphates, phthalates, petrochemicals, SLS, SLES, alcohol and the ilk to their products, they believe in keeping pernicious chemicals at an arm’s length from their tempting products.
I find the Anti-Acne Mask from their range worth a mention. While I do not suffer from acne, I can’t comment on how efficacious it would be for a person suffering from the same yet, what I can comment about is, is its cooling and rejuvenating properties which make it an ideal pick for blistering summers. Good to enough to be used daily, it doesn’t suck up the moisture of your skin and is safe for use by all skin types. Pulverized finely, it won’t scratch your skin too. Creditable, isn’t it?
IngredientSpy.com: Check and Analyze the Ingredients before Buying
Hi guys,
With the option of 100’s of products available these days for each skincare product, we often get confused and sometimes end up buying things that may not necessarily be suitable for our skin.
I came across this website called Ingredientspy.com. It’s goal is to help women easily figure out what’s actually inside cosmetics, before they buy them. I think this is a very good idea and super helpful for us who would really want to know what are the ingredients in the products we are putting on our skin and body.
One can analyze the ingredients of any product by pasting the list of ingredients or uploading a clear picture of the ingredients. Or one can just explore different ingredients as to which ingredient helps in what.
Also if you have a specific skin type or concern and looking at specific ingredient in your skincare, you can find products based on the ingredient. This I feel is the most helpful feature. For e.g., if you have acne prone skin and looking for something with salicylic acid, you can find that and if you have dry skin, something with hyaluronic acid, and so on and so forth..
The idea behind the website is to build a piece of software which can recognize ingredients and show visitors whether a product is worth trying or not. The data which feeds into the system comes mostly from the National Institute of Health website.
All products on the site are compared using their ingredients. Each ingredient displays a short explanation and is categorized based on its properties. Some properties include anti-aging, moisturizing, healing, etc. Ingredients are also marked as being great, good or unfavorable – great being a perfect fit for the specific type of products it’s used in, good being good in general and unfavorable signifying known (documented) unwanted side effects. When all this is taken into account, a numeric score is derived and stored as the ingredient rating of each product on the site.
The website has a database of a couple hundred products separated into categories. If you’re looking for an anti-aging cream it’s pretty easy to compare the ones on the site and see which ones have the ingredients you want most.
The site also offers an Ingredient Analyzer which makes it easy for visitors to paste a list of ingredients or upload a clear photo of the ingredients on the product’s packaging, which the site will transform into text and attempt to read through. This is my favourite feature, you can just click a picture using your phone and analyze the ingredients instantly.
I analyzed the Himalaya Herbals Orange Peel Tan Removal Face Pack and here are the results..
New products are added a couple times per week. I hope they soon cover most of the brands and products. This website is really helpful and if you are someone who would like to be aware of what you are putting on your skin, this will be of great help! Definitely recommend checking Ingredientspy.com
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.
Top Natural Skin, Hair and Body Care Brands in India
By Nidhal
Tossing away all those chemical-laden cocktails into the trash seems a herculean task given the paucity of alternatives at hand at present, isn’t it? Not anymore. You do not have to repine anymore for there are some niche brands that are not just environment-friendly in their approach but also cent per cent transparent about the ingredients’ list of each and every product of theirs. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it?
No need to glower at your high-end chemical-laden product anymore for burning a hole in your pocket and not throwing any commendable results for here you go with a list of Indian brands- all of which sell via Amazon India, that are not just safe for topical application but also budget-friendly.
1. MAHAGRO – A small but incredulously devoted team based out of Hyderabad, MahaGro may have entered the natural skin, hair and body care market recently (2012) but earns a thumbs up from one and all thanks to their nourishing all-natural, chemical-free, preservative-free, artificial-fragrance- free and cruelty-free products.
Offering not just beauty products (like- herbal bath powder, pimple pack, face pack, hair wash powder, etc.) but also ingredients that can be used to whip one’s own recipes (like orange peel powder, tulsi powder, etc.), their products don’t cost an arm and a leg if you’re contemplating adding the same to your shopping carts. Owned by the obliging Krishna Karthik, they are about to launch herbal soaps and shampoos soon in addition to shipping products PAN India.
My vote of approval goes to the following products-
(a) Herbal bath powder- Enriched with the benefits of myriad herbs in dried form with a lingering aroma of camphor predominantly, Mahagro’s herbal bath powder makes for an efficacious face pack too in addition to being a bath powder. Ideal for use in summers when the mercury rises to unprecedented levels, it cools one’s skin instantly, thereby soothing it.
(b) Herbal hair wash powder- To those who are fond of giving a wide berth to chemical-laden hair masks/packs, Mahagro’s herbal wash powder is of use. Composed of only dried herbs and leaves sans any chemical preservatives, teaming it with one’s base ingredient of choice say- coconut milk, would work wonders for one’s mane. Regular use will obviously throw much more flattering results vis-à- vis a single use.
2. TARIKA AYURLABS- The picture-postcard Pondicherry (called Pondy by the locals) gives one’s eyes not just sights to behold but also one’s skin and hair, oodles of unadulterated nourishment through a brand that targets beauty woes through the ancient Indian science- Ayurveda. Not even 1% of the composition of any of their 100% natural, vegan, cruelty-free and chemical-free products contain any nasties that’d compel you to grimace.
Crafting a wholesome combo of products, ranging from hair oils, face serums, face masks to face scrubs, each product impresses with its unique composition. From offering products that seek to address the woes of aging, pimples/spots, foul body odour, excess hair fall to having lacklustre skin, they offer beauty combos that work wonders in allaying the same with regular use.
I would recommend Tarika’s daily facial sandal face mask as well as night oil for face (saffron) to all those whose skin loses its lustre and glow thanks to the barrage of chemical-laden cocktails we pour on ourselves daily in a bid to get the same. A little goes a long way that’s what I realised after using both the gems! Versatile enough to be blended with raw milk and neem decoction, the mask suits every skin type, leaving your skin inherently cleansed and nourished NATURALLY.
The cherry on the cake is Tarika Night oil for face (saffron). The aroma is ethereal, heavenly…a sort of aphrodisiac, taking your olfactory senses to a ride. Upon applying, with a little massage, it blends in with one’s skin easily. Sleep with it for within a few days, you will wake up with skin that looks restored to life. Let’s be rational- one or two uses won’t throw wondrous results. Given the kind of environs we inhabit, we need to be persistent in application. And if we are, the beauty combo from Tarika Ayurlabs leaves you chuffed.
PRICE-
Daily Sandale Beauty Mask: INR 480 for 50g (Buy HERE)
Night Oil for Face Saffron: INR 695 for 30ml (Buy HERE)
3. ISHAAN ENTERPRISES: RAYAAN HERBALS- Based out of Hyderabad, this all-natural venture helmed by Mrs. Reshma Thakur believes in giving a wide berth to chemical preservatives. Incepted in 2013 with a vision to craft exquisite skin, hair and body care products sans any hogwash (read: chemicals), Rayaan Herbals (the brand) that comes under Ishaan Enterprises (the company) came to the rescue of all those fraught with seeing chemical-laden products inundate markets! With an expanding range that seeks to cater to varying needs of its customers, if you are at the sea, don’t repine for you can touch base with them (Facebook) and get products tailor-made to suit your needs. Another feather in their cap is that they manufacture the products themselves so every facet is scrutinised to the backbone.
Coming from raw parts of a plant say- stems, flowers, roots, leaves, etc. their herbal products are intricate mixes of herbs. In my humble opinion, one should give a shot to their Hair shining pack. A natural fix for those whose locks look lustreless and drained off gloss, mixing it with the base ingredient that’s most compatible with one’s locks will ensure that it packs a punch at other hair woes too like- lack of softness, brittleness, etc. Dedicated use overtime will surely leave one with more thunderous results than single/two-time uses. It performs to a great extent on what it claims, however, do not get dispirited within a few uses for everyone’s hair condition differs and depending on how damaged one’s locks are, it will work.
4. IRAYA- ‘From the earth’ as is meant by its name in Sanskrit, Iraya- based out of Ahmedabad brings forth to our notice, the bountifulness of nature, which when harnessed ethically nourishes us to the backbone. Without elaborating much on what all the brand offers (Because we all know that! Iraya is a established name. One needs to be living under the rock to be unaware of it), what the USP of Iraya is to me, is that they not just ferret out the most esoteric herbs and blend them to concoct nourishing skin treats but also name their products in a way that is strongly reminiscent of the days when people relied on Ayurveda and natural remedies to tend to her beauty woes instead of store-bought products.
The product I recommend is the Kantivardhak Lepa which does justice to its name- imparts a winsome glow (Kanti) to my face and neck within a few applications without stinging it. Versatile enough to be blended with as many base ingredients (such as- curd, buttermilk, rose water, etc.) as you can come up with, it gets my vote of approval. I find it apt for use by all skin types. Slough it gently while removing to aid the process of scrubbing. Wouldn’t that be equivalent to saying that we are getting the best of both worlds- scrubbing as well as getting a glow? Yes, it surely would be.
5. RAW RITUALS- Handcrafting taken seriously- that’s how I delineate Raw Rituals. Based out of Ahmedabad, this organic skin and hair care venture is helmed by the warm and welcoming Mrs. Lovina Aggarwal and makes no about doing everything manually be it- boiling, whipping, blending, packaging, or designing. If that’s insufficient then, they have all the feathers in their cap to sweep you off your feet- cruelty-free, organic, preservative-free and cent per cent transparent about the ingredients added.
Offering lip balms, face packs, face scrubs, hair oils, body massage oils, face serums and cold-pressed soap- all free from chemicals, there is no reason why Raw Rituals doesn’t deserve a place on our list. I would recommend Raw Rituals’ peppermint and orange lip butter to all those looking to soothe their perennially dry lips that yearn for all the more moisturisation as the mercury goes down. The USP is that it is colourless, thus apt for use by men/boys too. The subtle aroma is capable of sending you into a tizzy thanks to peppermint essential oil which it is replete with.
Read the reviews of the orange lip butter HEREand their Ethereal Face Serum HERE
Best 10 Moisturizers for Acne/Breakout Prone Skin Available in India, Prices, Buy Online
By Sanchita
Acne prone skin is toughest to deal with. You can’t use too hydrating moisturizer as it will make the skin oily and break you out even more. If you keep it dry, it will be irritated and the glands will produce more oil, leading to breakout. Therefore, you have to look for a hydrating moisturizer that will nourish as well as keep the skin shine and oil free. Also, there should be certain ingredients to combat the acne problem. With so many products in the market, it is not an easy job. We have listed out the best moisturizers for acne/breakout prone skin available in India to help you out.
1. Clean and Clear Oil Free Moisturizer – Price Rs. 80 for 80ml (BUY HERE)
This is undoubtedly one of the best budget friendly moisturizer available in India. It has a unique texture – a blend of cream and gel consistency and it spreads easily on the skin. It gets absorbed in no time, leaving a matte hydrated look. It is great for oily acne prone skin. Also, it has salicylic acid in it and helps to treat the acne and breakouts. The availability of the product is easy and has no side effect on the skin at all.
2. Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel – Price Rs. 80 for 150ml (BUY HERE) (Review HERE)
Having acne prone skin, I know the struggle to deal with it and this Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel has helped out a lot. It is one of the affordable moisturizer for acne prone skin and easily available everywhere now. Aloe Vera plants have medicinal properties and used in treating skin conditions. The gel is light green in color and you need a pea size amount. The gel gets absorbed into the skin very well and gives a cooling sensation. It prevents the acne and also controls oil. It has various uses and can be used with face packs as well.
Neutrogena Oil Free Moisturizer is another budget friendly moisturizer that leaves the skin feeling soft, nourished and oil free. It doesn’t add any shine and ideal for oily acne prone skin. It gets absorbed easily and also non comedogenic hence it doesn’t clog pores. Additionally, it has UVA/UVB SPF 15 sunscreens that help to prevent damage to the skin caused by everyday exposure to sun’s rays. It feels gentle on the skin and also fragrance free.
4. Lacto Calamine Skin Balance Oil Control – Price Rs. 160 for 120ml (BUY HERE) (Review HERE)
The good old Lacto Calamine Skin Balance Oil Control surely deserves to be on the list. The ‘Skin Balance’ formula means it maintains a neutral pH and the skin is neither dry nor oily. It is great for oily acne prone skin and the skin doesn’t produce excess sebum. It has glycerin in it and also acts as a primer as well. It is also enriched with the goodness of Kaolin that acts as an exfoliator and helps in dead skin removal. The product also has Zinc oxide which has antiseptic properties that helps to protect skin from acne breakouts and helps reduce dark spots an blemishes. It adds a healthy glow and you can also use this as a spot treatment for acne.
The Lotus Herbals Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil Free Moisturizer a white colored lotion and spreads easily on the skin and is absorbed very quickly. It hydrates yet looks matte and is a very light-weight moisturizer which does not clog any pores and prevent the nasty breakouts. It is one of the best for to oily-combination skin prone to acne. The skin feels calm and hydrated skin with a healthy radiant glow in it.
6. Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer – Price Rs. 450 for 50ml (BUY HERE)
The Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer comes in a white opaque pump bottle with a transparent cap. The product is white in color and has a medium serum like consistency. It is extremely light, hydrating and gives a matte shine free look. It gets absorbed in a jiff and the product is formulated with glycolic acid and green tea extracts. The Glycolic acid helps keep skin clear and the Green tea extracts act against the acne formation process. The product is also silicon free, Paraben-free, SLS-free, phthalate-free and non-comedogenic.
7. Forest Essentials Facial Gel Pure Aloe Vera – Price Rs. 1250 for 50g (BUY HERE)
The Forest Essentials Facial Gel Pure Aloe Vera is surely one of the best moisturizer for oily acne prone skin. It comes in a tub and the gel is transparent in color. The gel is light weight and gets absorbed into the skin smoothly. The aloe vera in it is in pure form and acts a natural humectant and adds moisture to the skin. It has healing and soothing properties. The Genhu in it prevents premature aging and reduces ultra violet rays induced sun damage. With the passage of time, you will see the skin’s texture is improved and acne is banished forever. The product is expensive slightly but totally worth it.
8. Kaya Skin Clinic Acne Free Purifying Nourisher – Price Rs. 680 for 50ml (BUY HERE)
The Kaya Skin Clinic Acne Free Purifying Nourisher is white in color with a lotion like texture. It is extremely light weight, non-greasy water-based nourisher that leaves your skin supple and hydrated with its soft and supple formula. It blends into the skin easily and requires a little amount. It has aloe vera which reduce skin itchiness, Almond Oil and Rose Extract contains antioxidants to protect the skin from environmental factors. The product is also non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for acne prone skin.
9. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo – Price Rs. 1350 for 40ml (BUY HERE) (Review HERE)
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo is an award winning product for acne prone skin. It has a very light weight formula and sinks into the skin in no time. It reduces the breakouts in a matter of weeks and enhances the texture of the skin. It helps in reducing the acne scars as well and the skin feels hydrated and soft. It is formulated with powerful acne medication in a unique format to penetrate pores, clear blemishes, and minimize potential irritation. It might sound expensive but for problematic skin, this is a must have product.
10. Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel – Price Rs.499 for 50ml (BUY HERE)
The Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel comes in a white tube and has a clear gel like texture. It spreads onto the skin very well and gets absorbed due to its easy light weight formula. It helps to dry out the breakout and prevent them with the passage of time. It balances out the skin’s pH level, it further hydrates and moisturizes the skin. it also protects the skin against bacteria. Overall, it is a great product that won’t cause any side effect at all.
Editor’s Note: This is a perfect list Sanchita. I love Lacto Calamine and Aloe Vera Gel. And La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo is perfect for acne prone skin. Avene has recently launched Cleanance Expert which works like the La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo in fighting blackheads/acne and also the Cleanance Mat which is a mattifying moisturizer for oily skin. Even these two are worth adding.
Do you have oily skin? Which is your favourite moisturizer?
So I finally got the October My Envy Box, this is their 3rd anniversary box and all the teaser emails where making me very curious, they had mentioned they have 8 products in this month’s box.
The box this month is a plain white one with black web design on it and it says ‘turns three’ below the My Envy Box logo.
I got the Zebra print black and white nail wraps in Nertia. I have tried the Gulnare face wash before and it’s quite good. The Ayca Jasmine Body Wash also smells really nice.
I am not much into whitening cleansing facial foam as they make my skin super stretchy and dry. I would have liked the essence though which is another option in the box. I wish My Envy Box gave options to subscribers on what they can choose in terms of shades or products, if they have a few different ones to offer. That would be very convenient.
Love the Forest Essentials Cleansing Paste, I wanted to try this one out, glad I got this. Also this is perfect for travelling. Even the Kerastase Chronologiste vial is perfect for travel.
The Vert Loose Powder is made from all natural, dried rose petals. It has a strong pink undertone and can be used as a blush or eyeshadow. This would make a beautiful blush! But the quantity is good enough to last a few generations 😀 I would suggest splitting it to half or 1/4th and sharing it with your friends/family.
The total value of all the products in this month’s box comes to around Rs.3750/- I am quite happy with the products, 3 are full sized while 3 are super deluxe samples.
I definitely recommend this month’s box! Total value for money.
Did you get the Oct My Envy Box? What did you receive?
Eyes are the windows to one’s heart. So true! But they are a lot more than that. They are also indicators of your health. Given the kind of lifestyles we all are living, we frequently tend to cross paths with dark circles, patchiness, discoloration, puffy eyes and what not. The first stage is of denial when we see signs of these pesky woes. Conveniently and more aptly sceptically we wring up our hands in disbelief brushing aside those signs.
A few more days roll by and then those signs begin drawing unwanted attention for people point it out. That sends the ‘Oh-No- Something’s-Wrong’ flag soaring high. Petrified, we wade across over-the-counter measures and what not to allay them but more often than not, such products do not throw positive results. Disappointed, we fall into a whirlpool of pessimism. But hey, worry not. We have a treasure trove of pocket-friendly recipes-none invasive, painful or costing you an arm and a leg at your disposal that’ll leave you heaving a sigh of respite.
1. MALAI/MILK CREAM- Milk has great lightening abilities for the skin and can be a very affordable option for dealing with dark circles under the eyes, which can have great results. Milk cream is a derivative of milk. Being a powerhouse of fats, malai is what you need if you suffer from under-eye discoloration.
PROCEDURE- Simply dab and massage a tbsp. of fresh milk cream using your ring finger (for it is the gentlest in massaging) carefully on your under-eye area. Do not let it enter your eyes. If it does, wash off immediately. That’s it. Sleep with it. In the morning, you can wash it off. Let it work its magic overnight. Continue every night for at least a week. It shows results and how! I vouch for this method provided it is followed painstakingly and regularly. And yes, it softens the area too. Double-whammy, did I hear you say that?
2. ALMOND OIL- Here comes the weapon that has been relied upon since times immemorial to banish those dark circles- Almond oil. Shouldn’t there have been drumrolls in the background as I introduced it?
Coming to its virtues, almond oil is anti-inflammatory, thus it reduces puffy bags under the eyes and dark circles. It is a good source of vitamin K, which improves clotting, reducing discoloration under the eyes.
PROCEDURE- Application is simple. Simply slather and massage the under-eye area with almond oil (few drops) every night dedicatedly without fail for at least a fortnight. Sleep with it and let your skin repair itself overnight.
3. EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL- If almond oil has made an appearance on this list, can EVOO (Extra virgin olive oil) stay far behind? EVOO is the best grade of olive oil for it is least processed and contains maximum nutrition. It comes in glass bottles and is higher than all other variants. It works wonders in allaying wrinkles. Ladies approaching their twilight years can still shed a few years of age off their skin with the help of this wonder oil.
PROCEDURE- Massage a few drops of it on your under-eye area. Please note that massaging is important. That is what matters else the oil will merely sit on your skin and not nourish it the way you want to. Do this every night for 5 minutes gently for at least a fortnight. You will be spellbound with the positive turn of events.
4. GREEN TEA BAGS- Packed with a number of antioxidants, green tea helps banish dark circles and keeps them at bay for as long as you continue sipping (or as I do, gulping) it.
PROCEDURE- Put two green tea bags in the refrigerator for at least an hour. After that, keep them on your eyes. It’s alright if it’s not entirely on your under-eyes. It nourishes eyelashes too so, you have the best of both worlds there.
5. CUCUMBER JUICE- Not only is the cool cucumber (you surely would have heard the phrase ‘as cool as a cucumber’) rich in vitamins and minerals which helps to hydrate, nourish and tone skin, but also brighten the under eye area, so that you can say ‘good bye’ to those pesky dark circles permanently. What needs to be done?
PROCEDURE- Mince a cucumber into a few slices. Actually, two would do. Freeze them for half an hour and then, keep them on your eyes. Bid farewell to all those woes pertaining to your under-eye area.
Editor’s Note: Those are fab tips Nidhal. I swear by almond oil, I am currently using the Cold Pressed Sweet Almond Oil and 3 drops are more than enough! Also just wanted to add, be careful when using the oil, make sure you don’t go too close to the eyes or it doesn’t enter inside, it kind of blurs vision for the entire night :/ Also I recommend the Rogan Badam Shirin, it’s the most economical and easily available option when it comes to purity.
