Tag Archives: Skin Care

Top 10 Moisturizers for Oily and Combination Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Moisturizers for Oily and Combination Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Moisturizers for Oily and Combination Skin in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

As we emphasize on the CTM routine, the application of moisturizer is very well for the oily and combination skin as well. This becomes slightly challenging because the temperature for most of the time is generally hit and humid and too much products on the face will surely clog the pores and make it look oily. Therefore, the oily and combination skin will always have to choose a moisturizer that would control the sebum, gives a matte look and would nourish the skin as well.

Therefore, I have compiled a list of the top 10 moisturizers for oily and combination skin in India for your convenience. Let’s have a look at it.

OILY SKIN TYPE

1. Lacto Calamine Skin Balance Oil Control Lotion: Price – INR 160 for 120 ml (Buy HERE)

This is a quite well known choice of moisturizer for oily and combination skin types for all seasons. Lacto Calamine comprises of Kaolin which has natural minerals, acts as an exfoliator and helps in dead skin removal. It moisturizes the skin thoroughly and then gives a soft matte and shine free look. It also contains Glycerin helps control excess oil, thus reducing acne, making smooth and clear. Further, you can use this as a primer and helps the base to look flawless. It will never cause any irritation and will balance out the pH level of the skin, thereby reducing the oil factor.

2. Clean and Clear Skin Balancing Moisturizer: Price – INR 50 for 50 ml (Buy HERE)

This is one of the best oil free moisturizer for oily skin in the budget friendly range and personally, I have been using it for the past one year. The Moisturiser is white in color, and has a thin consistency. It may appear to be gel-based, but is actually a cream-based product. It has a light weight texture and gives a soothing effect to the skin. This product moisturizes the skin without any greasiness or shine and does not clog pores. It has Salicylic acid that helps prevent pimples and blackheads. It leaves your skin feeling clean and hydrated. It is fragrance-free, so it suits even sensitive skin.

3. Lotus Herbals Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil Free Moisturiser: Price – INR 265 for 80 ml (Buy HERE)

Before Clean and Clear Skin Balancing Moisturizer, I had used this Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil Free Moisturiser for quite some time and I have to say it really does the job well. It has a light weight liquid kind of a texture and blends into the skin in no time at all. It is nourished with Aloe Vera which has excellent moisturizing and skin healing properties, anti- inflammatory and soothing properties. It also contains Grape Extract which acts as a natural astringent, antimicrobial and antioxidant moisturizer for oily skin. Thus, the skin will feel nourished and rejuvenated after prolonged usage.

4. L’Oreal Hydrafresh Deep Boosting Essence: Price- INR 685 for 50ml (Buy HERE)

Essence is one of the most important product in the Korean skincare routine and works excellent as a moisturizer for oily skin. The L’Oreal Hydrafresh Deep Boosting Essence has been formulated with triple hyaluronic acid technology and by this method the moisture is continuously diffused through the skin and locked at several layers, thereby hydrating the skin on one hand and then keeping it matte on the other. It is also supplemented with the goodness of Vitamin E and protect skin from external aggressions. This is one provides a fresher and younger looking complexion when used twice a day religiously.

5. Forest Essentials Pure Aloe Vera Light Moisturising Facial Gel: Price – INR 1250 for 50g (Buy HERE)

Aloe Vera gel is the best possible moisturizer for oily skin and the FE Pure Aloe Vera Light Moisturising Facial Gel has the added benefits of other ingredients that makes the skin glow from within. It is light, cool facial contains Aloe Vera has strong soothing and moisture retaining properties with a soft texture that blends into the skin like a dream. The Genhu Extracts in it prevents premature aging and reduces ultra violet rays induced sun damage to the skin. It further helps in drainage of secretions from the sebaceous glands of the skin and thereby helps in thwarting of black heads.

6. Neutrogena Oil – Free Moisture SPF 15: Price – INR 349 for 115 ml (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena is one brand you can trust blindly when it comes to skin care within budget friendly price tag. This oil free moisturizer comes with a sun protection formula of 15 and prevents skin from darkening. It has a rather lightweight, non-greasy texture with a consistency of a liquid lotion and keeps the skin moisturized for around 7-8hours without getting oily or greasy. The sheer formula absorbs quickly into skin leaving it smoother and softer. This moisturizer has a tested formula that contains no fragrance, no dyes, and no excess ingredients. It is completely non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores that can cause skin to break out.

COMBINATION SKIN TYPE

7. Plum Aloe Caring Day Moisturizer: Price – INR 450 for 60g (Buy HERE)

The Plum Aloe Caring Day Moisturizer is a light weight cream that gets absorbed into the skin and gives a flawless nourished skin without greasiness. This is the perfect pick for combination skin. It is manufactured with the purest natural ingredients, devoid of any chemicals, synthetic colors, PABA, SLS, etc. it repairs dryness, dullness and gives a hydrated skin. This has been formulated with the goodness of organic Aloe juice, which nourishes and heal skin. Further, it has the goodness of vitamin E providing wholesome nourishment.

8. Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Combination Skin: Price – INR 299 for 118 ml (Buy HERE)

Neutrogena has specialized moisturizers for every skin type. This has a lightweight, dual-action formula that moisturizes dry areas while it controls oily shine. It is a special oil-absorbing Micro-sponge system controls oil and shine in the T-Zone for combination skin. This moisturizer is non-comedogenic and therefore won’t clog pores or break out even if you have acne prone skin. The skin feels softer and smoother which further adds a natural and matte finish throughout the day.

9. The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream: Price – INR 995 for 50 ml (Buy HERE)

TBS is one of the top brands for skin care in India and the Vitamin E Moisture Cream perfectly fits he description for combination skin. it is powerfully enriched with one of the best antioxidants that help protect the skin against damaging environmental elements, such as the sun, pollution and cigarette smoke. It also helps to neutralize free radicals, which are destructive molecules that attack cell on the skin. it retains the moisture for a long time, keeping the skin supple and soft without getting greasy and oily. It also contains lanolin which is one of nature’s richest moisturizers.

10. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Protective Care – Combination to Oily Skin – INR 1350 for 40ml (Buy HERE)

La Roche-Posay Toleriane is a non-oily emulsion that blends into the skin like a dream. It gives an instant soothing and hydrating effect to the skin after application and calms the irritated skin. This product has been formulated for oily to combination skin and hydrates the dry areas without making it oily at all. The emulsion penetrates instantaneously and restores skin comfort. It is non-comedogenic and won’t clog the pores at all. Further it is fragrance-free, preservative- free and paraben-free.

Editor’s Note: That’s a nice list Sanchita. I used to swear by Lacto Calamine and still use only that on days when I don’t wish to use anything else on the face.

Have you tried these? Which is your favourite moisturizer for oily-combination skin?

Patanjali Divya Gulab Jal/Rose Water Review

Patanjali Divya Gulab Jal/Rose Water Review

By Archana

Rose water is one common product in everyone’s skincare regime, irrespective of skin type or concerns. It is a multi-purpose product with many benefits. There so many brands offering rose water nowadays, right from budget friendly ones like Dabur, Banjaras to high- end luxury brands like Kama Ayurveda and Forest Essentials. Today’s review is about a budget friendly rose water from Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali. Read on to know whether you should go for it or not.

Product Claims:

Ingredients & Directions to use:

Price and quantity: Rs.25 for 120ml.

Packaging:

It comes in a transparent plastic bottle packaging with a pink screw cap. On opening the cap, there is an inner stopper which closes the mouth of bottle. You need to use a pin to make a hole in the stopper. But carrying it around is not a good idea as I have noticed some spillage while travelling. I now transfer some to my Fabindia spray bottle for travel purposes. One big con I didn’t like in the packaging was that all the details of the product are mentioned in hindi. Considering the fact that Patanjali products are sold all over India, I think they should start printing in English.

Texture and fragrance:

It is just like plain water in color and consistency. The fragrance is very soothing and natural of fresh roses. The ones that I used from Dabur and Banjara’s, I felt were kind of artificial. But this one has a more natural fragrance. But it is very mild and not overpowering and so won’t bother sensitive noses.

My experience:

I have been using Patanjali Rose Water in many different ways. Firstly, I use it as toner after washing my face. It hydrates my face instantly and also helps to blend in the moisturiser easily. After coming home from travelling in the hot sun, I spray some on my face. It instantly refreshes me and soothes and cools the sun-burned skin. I also used this rose water to mix my homemade face packs for extra benefits. For eyes, I soak two cotton pads in this rose water and place over my eyes and relax. It calms down irritated area under the eyes which occurs while scrubbing and also relieves puffy eyes. As I have very sensitive skin under the eyes, most of the eye creams and gels don't suit me. But this has helped to keep my under eye area well-hydrated and healthy. I haven’t faced any breakouts with Patanjali Rose Water and I feel it can be used by sensitive skin types also.

During winters, I mix few drops of glycerin to this rose water and apply all over body to nourish and moisturize dry and parched skin. Since, its very affordable I find it apt to be used on body too, unlike the expensive rose waters from higher end brands. It doesn’t give any miraculous results but then at this price point what can you expect. It is just a daily use product which helps to maintain healthy skin.

Pros:

* Light and hydrating.

* Soothing and natural fragrance.

* Can be used in multiple ways.

* Suitable for all skin types.

* Budget friendly.

Cons:

* Packaging is not travel-friendly.

Rating: 4.1/5

Verdict: Overall, Patanjali Divya Gulab Jal is a budget friendly rose water for everyday use. It can be used in different ways for face, body and even hair. Compared to the other brands like Dabur and Banjara’s which fall under the same price range, I feel Patanjali rose water is more natural from the fragrance. I would definitely recommend all of you to give this a try.

Editor’s Note: Patanjali Aloe Vera Gel and Rose Water are their cult products, very economical and good quality. Nice review Archana

Have you tried the Patanjali Rose Water?

Top 10 Chocolate Based Beauty Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Chocolate Based Beauty Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Archana

Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate! Who doesn’t love chocolates? Gone are the days when we only had chocolate drinks, chocolate cookies, chocolate cakes, etc. Today, we have loads of chocolate based beauty products on the shelves to appease our chocolate cravings. Here we go! The best chocolate based products you need to get your hands on immediately! Note – most of them are organic brands, as only they use the original chocolate extracts. Other brands just use an artificial fragrance of chocolates.

1. Shahnaz Husain Chocolate Nourishing Cream- Price: Rs.520 for 50ml (Buy HERE)

Chocolate is best for nourishing dry skin. And what better way than to add it in your daily moisturiser? This cream from Shahnaz Husain takes care of dry skin owes, heals dry gives a healthy, glowing look.

2. Plum Choco-Latte Luxuriant Body Lotion- Price: Rs.380 for 200ml. (Buy HERE)

Have you ever dreamed of bathing in choco-latte? Luxury comes in a bottle! I am not kidding when I say this is one of the best chocolate based products you definitely need to try. Already reviewed on the blog. It is a deeply hydrating body lotion with a delicious smell of hot chocolate.

3. The Natures Co Chocolate Creme Body Wash- Price: Rs.995 for 250ml. (Buy HERE)

Indulge in a yummy, creamy bath experience with The Nature;s Co body wash. Chocolate has excellent anti-ageing and antioxidative properties which work wonders on your skin. You can feel your skin young, soft, smooth and nourished. It also heals and calms irritated skin.

4. Aloe Veda Distil After Bath Oil – Chocolate Vanilla- Price: Rs.975 for 200ml. (Buy HERE)

This is a light and non-sticky after-bath oil which helps to restore moisture and keeps skin soft and supple. Infused with the rich and decadent flavor of Swiss Chocolate vanilla, this is a luxury treat for choco and vanilla lovers.

5. Bliscent Chocolate Cheeks Face Mask- Price: Rs.200 for 30g.

Face pack lovers would fall head over heels for this yummy, delicious chocolate mask. It comes in a powder form and you can mix with milk or yogurt. It removes all dirt and impurities and leaves your face fresh and your heart happy.

6. Vedic Line Choco Cherry Mud Pack with Cherry extracts- Price: Rs.210 for 65ml and Rs.200 for 60ml respectively. (Buy HERE)

This is a mud pack made from volcanic mud. It cools and soothes the skin while the chocolate and cherry extracts maintain the moisture levels and provide hydration. It doesn’t dry out skin unlike other mud packs. Also, Vedic Line has a Choco Almond Oil Complex, a face and body massage oil, which helps to maintain elasticity and improve

7. Juicy Chemistry Mochalicious Collection- Price: Rs.1800 for the collection (Buy HERE)

If you want to include a whole collection of chocolate products in your regimen, Juicy Chemistry is the right choice. They have a Mochalicious Collection which includes Vanilla Hazelnut Latte Gourmet Soap, Sweet Orange & Mocha Body Scrub/Mask, Choco Mint Body Butter, Choco Mint Lip Butter and Choco Mint Lip Scrub. All the products are 100% natural and paraben-free.

8. Skincafe Chocolate Party Lip Care Set- Price: Rs.900 for the set (Buy HERE)

If you want to show some TLC for your lips, then try this choco lip care set from Skincafe. It contains Vanilla Crème Brûlée Lip Butter, Choco Chip Cookies Lip Scrub & Mint Chocolate Brownie Lip Tint Balm. The perfect and delicious way to pamper your lips.

9. Vert Choco Smoothie Face & Body Mask- Price: Rs.1500 for 100g.

Indulge yourself in a luxurious experience with this face and body mask. The natural cocoa powder, french clay and cocoa butter heals the skin from sunburns and rejuvenates it making your skin soft, smooth, glowing and moisturized. And have a real choco smoothie while putting on this mask :p

10. Temple Spa Double Truffle

Its difficult to get Temple Spa products in India. But some online sites like Aplava.com and Amazon stock them. The Double Truffle is a special pot containing two of Temple Spa’s bestselling moisturizers – Skin Truffle and Truffle Noir, day cream and night cream respectively. It is an award winning product and the formula delivers active ingredients including black truffles, pure gold and silk along with extracts of champagne, chocolate and strawberries. The night cream has additional skin renewal and repairing complexes to give a young and glowing radiance. Sounds extremely tempting, right?

So these are the best chocolate based beauty products available in India. Which ones have you tried? Which is your favorite? Share in the comments below.

Editor’s Note: These sound so good, I  want to try the Temple Spa Double Truffle! I would like to add the Hedonista Chocolate Face Souffle Mask, I absolutely love it!

Do you love chocolate based skincare products? Your favourite?

Sun Pharma’s #SuncrosSunscreen Review

Sun Pharma’s #SuncrosSunscreen Review

Hi guys,

So I attended this very interesting launch last week of the all new Suncros Sunscreen. If you have ever been to a dermatologist and he prescribed you Suncros sunscreen, you already know about this brand and are wondering it is not new.

Yes, Suncros is already sold at pharmacies since 2005 and is also the most recommended sunscreen by dermatologists in India. It is available both OTC and on prescription, but since majority didn’t know about the brand, it is majorly sold on prescription. But now they have launched it commercially with the all new packaging.

Suncros is promoted by Sun Pharma’s branded prescription business and will now be co-promoted by the Global Consumer Healthcare business. It is the first sunscreen in India to be co-promoted and sold both OTC and on prescription.

And Dia Mirza is on board as Suncros’ Brand Ambassador. On the launch, we had a panel of dermatologists who busted quite some myths about sunscreen, I will share a few crucial ones:

  • Indian skin doesn’t need high SPF coz it already has enough melanin and needs UVA and UVB protection. So it is more important to check that in a sunscreen rather than SPF
  • Men needs to apply sunscreen too, they usually ignore and very less percentage of men in India use sunscreen
  • You need to reapply sunscreen even if you are wearing makeup, by dabbing the base lightly, reapplying sunscreen and then doing your touch ups.
  • Vitamin D deficiency has no link to using sunscreen. And even people with Vitamin D deficiency need to use sunscreen
  • You need sunscreen even if you stay indoors whole day or travel in AC car.

I personally came to know a lot of new things, I never used to reapply sunscreen when I had makeup on. Also sometimes skipped when in the house whole day. The most important thing I learned is Indian skin needs to check UVA and UVB and not SPF.

Suncros will be available in three differentiated variants that provide broad spectrum protection –

  • Suncros Aqualotion with SPF 50 for sensitive skin- Rs.395/- for 60ml
  • Suncros Aquagel with SPF 26 for oily skin- Rs.345/- for 100g
  • Suncros Soft with SPF 50+ PA+++ in matte finish for all ages that provides 8 hour substantivity- Rs.545/- for 30g

The scientific and technologically advanced formulations of Suncros provides broad spectrum sun protection from harmful UV rays as they penetrate deep within the skin through the nanonized and micronized zinc oxide. For women who know the merit of a sound skin care regime, Suncros is going to make its presence felt in their daily lives while offering the am to pm sun protection they always needed. Suncros protects skin from the harmful effects of UV rays that causes pigmentation, skin tanning and premature aging that concerns most women across regions and age-groups. Not to forget the protection from the ultimate risk of skin cancer.

Ingredients:

We got the Suncros Soft with SPF50+ PA+++ in matte finish and I have been using it since the past few days. Here are my thoughts on it..

It comes in a tube form and doesn’t have any sort of smell. The product is thick and creamy and has a light yellow tint.

It is water resistant and has UVA/UVB protection. It is safe for all ages and for anyone to use from babies (6 months+) to adults.

It is silicony which makes it stay for 8 hours and also acts as a nice primer for your everyday makeup. It has completely matte finish and does not feel greasy or rich at all. Some sunscreens tend to sweat me out but this one definitely doesn’t. Also it is water resistant so the sweat won’t wipe off the sunscreen.

It is free from chemical sunscreen agents, some people react to a few chemical ingredients in suncreen and this would be perfect for them. The micronized zinc oxide is Suncros’ USP which penetrates through the skin and protects the skin from UV rays.

I think this will become my Holy Grail soon, I would anyday prefer chemical agents free sunscreen and which is no.1 Dermatologists’ Recommended product rather than cosmetic OTC ones.

I definitely recommend Suncros, it even comes in lotion and gel form if you have very oily skin or need it for body. And the fact that is  easily available at any pharmacy store, makes it even better! Must try!

Have you tried Suncros Sunscreen before?

Top 10 Kama Ayurveda Products, Prices, Buy Online

Top 10 Kama Ayurveda Products, Prices, Buy Online

By Archana

Today am here with one more ayuvedic brand – Kama Ayurveda. Most beauty enthusiasts would already be aware of it. But when I was talking about this to one of my office teammates, they were joking about the name of the brand. So just to clarify for new people, Kama means desire. Kama Ayurveda – the brand emphasizes the desire for harmony between the physical, mental and spirtitual realms. Only when the mind and the body are connected, one can achieve perfect health. And perfect health gives perfect skin! So desire perfect health! Desire perfect skin! That is why Ayurveda is more powerful than English medicines and chemical products, which focus on curing a particular symptom.

Let’s see the top 10 Kama Ayurveda products you need to try.

1. Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Ayurvedic Night Serum (Price: Rs.1890 for 12ml) (BUY HERE)

By far, this is the brand’s best selling product. It is an anti-ageing serum and suitable for those above 25+ years who are looking to start an anti-ageing routine. Though its an oil based serum, it can be used even by oily skin people. From the various beauty blogger reviews I have checked, it doesn’t cause any whiteheads or acne. The main ingredient is saffron blended along with vetiver, sandalwood, lotus and licorice. It works on reducing fine lines, fades dark spots and gives a soft glowing skin. One thing though, the brand has hiked the price too high and its just 12ml!

2. Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment (Price: Rs.595 for 100ml) (BUY HERE)

This is a more cost effective version of the above Kumkumadi. If you do not wish to spend too much on Kumkumadi, you can go for this. It is a skin-lightening and de-tanning oil for both face and body. But if you have acne-prone skin, better not use this for face. Its not as miraculous as the above one, but works well in lightening and removing tan while giving glowing skin. You can use it on hands and legs as well.

3. Rose Jasmine Face Cleanser (Price: Rs.375 for 50ml and Rs.675 for 100ml) (BUY HERE)

Just as the name suggests, its a lovely, gentle cleanser suitable for all skin types. The calming and relaxing scent makes the otherwise routine face washing experience, a pleasant one, which you will look forward to (from personal experience 🙂 ). It cleanses skin well giving a refreshed feeling while the mild salicylic acid content in it helps to control breakouts.

4. Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub (Price: Rs.995 for 50g) (BUY HERE)

This is a pure luxury scrub formulated with kumkumadi oil and finely ground sweet almond along with liquorice, vetiver and wild himalayan cherries. It exfoliates away the dead cells and gives smooth, soft and brighter skin. Also helps to lighten pigmentation and scars. You can notice a glowing complexion with continuous usage.

5. Kama Ayurveda Pure Vetiver Water (Price:Rs.175 for 50ml and Rs.645 for 200ml)

For those who love a cool, refreshing mist, this is a perfect option. It instantly hydrates and balances the pH of the skin and relaxes the mind with its calming, earthy scent. For those who prefer the floral jasmine fragrance, they can go for the Pure Mogra Water.

6. Mridul Soap-Free Cleanser (Price: Rs.425 for 40g) (BUY HERE)

This is a natural powder-based cleanser made of a traditional Ayurvedic combination of oatmeal, green gram, almond, neem, sandalwood, turmeric, rose and fennel. Just imagine all the goodness going directly into your skin! Its really food for skin.. It gives a fresh and radiant face. Also acts as a mild exfoliator.

7. Lavanya Natural Plant Mask (Price: Rs.395 for 25g)

This is an ayurvedic mask for pigmentation, acne scars and blemishes. It purifies the skin and deep cleanses. If you are suffering from oily, blemished and acne-prone skin, you should definitely give this one a try. Unlike clay masks, this is like a powdered-leaves based pack. It is gentle enough to be used even daily.

8. Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil (Price: Rs.515 for 100ml and Rs.995 for 200ml) (BUY HERE)

It is a herbal hair oil which helps to treat hair loss, dandruff and premature greying. It contains a blend of amla and liquorice in a base of pure sesame oil and milk. After washing your hair, you can feel it soft, smooth, shiny and naturally conditioned. With regular use, it also promotes hair growth.

9. Organic Cold-Pressed Aloe Vera Juice (Price: Rs.500 for 100ml)

The reason I mentioned aloe vera juice in the list is because not many brands sell it. And making aloe vera juice at home is a painful process. Kama Ayurveda has 100% organic cold pressed aloe vera juice. Just use it regularly and see how your face glows and you get a clear complexion. It also helps in treating sunburn, rashes, blemishes and acne. Also, you can use it to mix your herbal hair packs.

10. Rose Jasmine Hand Cleanser and Hand Lotion (Price: Rs.895 for 200ml) (BUY HERE)

Our hands and foot deserve the ultimate care, yet we ignore them the most. Hands show signs of ageing very soon as we subject it to harsh soaps often. Show some TLC to your hands with Kama Ayurveda’s gentle hand cleanser and hand lotion. It has a nice, delicate floral fragrance and makes your hands soft and moisturized.

Apart from these, their sulphate-free shampoos and silicone-free conditioners are definitely recommened. Also, I have tried couple of their massage oils – meditate & energize variants and found them a good relaxing experience for winters. And if you wish to buy essential oils/virgin cold-pressed carrier oils, Kama Ayurveda ones, even if slightly expensive, are worth it, as they are in purest form.

So which Kama Ayurveda products you have tried? Share your experiences with them below.

Editor’s Note: Loved the post Archana, I have used the Kumkumadi Tailam before my wedding, used it every night, and absolutely loved it. I still have some left and would start using it again soon. Apart from that, I love the Rose, Lavender and Vetiver Water. I have the Mridul Cleanser and have to start using it, also the Bringadi Oil.

Which are your favourite Kama Ayurveda products?

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Scrub: Scrub for Sensitive, Acne Prone Skin

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Scrub: Scrub for Sensitive, Acne Prone Skin

Hey guys,

My love for Himalaya Herbals revived again, after I received a few things from them, you already saw a few reviews. I am planning to buy the kesar face pack too.

Now I had reviewed this Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Scrub long back in 2011, as I had mentioned in the Neem Face Pack post that I have been using the Neem Range including the face wash since time immemorial 😀

I have also reviewed the Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub earlier, which again is quite gentle and nice but this Purifying Neem Scrub is specifically amazing for people with acne prone skin.

About: 

What it does: Himalaya’s Purifying Neem Scrub removes impurities and dead skin cells. It also cleanses excess oil from the skin’s surface, which is the root cause of acne. The scrub is blended with the goodness of Neem, which clears blackheads and acne, and Apricot, which hydrates the skin. The natural ingredients cleanse, nourish and moisturize your skin to make it soft, fresh and radiant.

Key ingredients:

Neem is an excellent skin care ingredient known for its antibacterial properties. It improves general skin health and immunity, combating bacterial infections such as acne, boils and ulcers. Neem tackles bacteria from the root and prevents the recurrence of pimples and blemishes.

Apricot granules gently exfoliate dead skin cells, to bring out your skin’s natural glow

Turmeric has been used as an antiseptic for centuries. The herb also has strong anti-inflammatory properties which soothe your skin gently. It also makes your skin soft and supple.

Directions: Apply Purifying Neem Scrub in a circular motion on the face and neck. Rinse with water and pat dry. Use at least once a week for clear, acne-free skin.

MRP: Rs.130/- for 100g, Rs.70/- for 50g

It comes in the flip cap tube packaging and with different size tubes, so you can even carry the smaller one while travelling, I believe there is a sachet too, for one time use.

It has small green and brown granules as it’s a mix of neem and apricot, the granules are very fine and not at all harsh or gritty. Since the exfoliants are quite mild, that makes this scrub perfect for sensitive skin. The base is creamy with a light green tint and it makes exfoliation on the face quite easy. I go more around the corners of my nose and on my T zone as I have combination skin. It has a slight herbal smell, but it’s not bothering.

As I had mentioned already mentioned in the Neem face pack post, neem is excellent for oily skin as it is anti bacterial and kills the germs at the root level, not allowing it to spread further while turmeric is anti inflammatory. Here in this scrub, while the walnut granules help exfoliate, neem and turmeric helps kill the germs.

I quite like this scrub and if you have acne prone skin, you will like it too.

They even have a TVC..

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

Have you tried the #HimalayaHerbals #PurifyingNeemScrub yet? What do you think of it?

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack: Boon for Oily Skin?

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack: Boon for Oily Skin?

Hey guys,

Now I know the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack is already reviewed on the blog by Nidhal few days ago, I wanted to talk more about it, coz the Himalaya Neem Range and I go back a long way 😀

Yes, I have been using the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash and Face Pack since I was in high school and college, basically more than a decade. And as a beauty blogger, I have to try different products and new launches, but I always keep coming back to the Himalaya Herbals Neem range.

Today I am talking about the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack and how I use it.

What it does: Himalaya’s Purifying Neem Pack brings together the goodness of Neem, Fuller’s Earth and Turmeric, which work together to regulate excess oil secretion, clean clogged pores and prevent the recurrence of pimples.

Key ingredients:

Neem is an excellent skin care ingredient known for its antibacterial properties. It improves general skin health and immunity, combating bacterial infections such as acne, boils and ulcers. Neem tackles bacteria from the root and prevents the recurrence of pimples and blemishes.

Turmeric has been used as an antiseptic for centuries. The herb also has strong anti-inflammatory properties which soothe your skin gently. It also makes your skin soft and supple.

Fuller’s Earth is an excellent cleanser. It removes deep-seated dirt and skin pollutants.

Directions: Apply Purifying Neem Pack evenly over cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes and mouth. Let the mask dry for 10-15 minutes, and remove with a wet sponge or towel. Rinse with cool water. For optimal results, use once a week.

Best for oily and pimple-prone skin.

MRP: Rs.70/- for 50g, Rs.130/- for 100g

It comes in the trademark white and green Himalaya Herbals flip cap tube packaging. While you must have already read the review, let me tell you how I use it.

Initially when I was in college, I had acne prone and oily skin due to hormonal changes. And also the break outs during that time of the month were a little severe, I used to use this once a week. Now I cleanse my face first and do not dry it completely but leave it a little damp for the mask to glide on easily. This tube needs to be shaken well before removing the product coz the clay and water sometimes separate. Take three fingers full of the mask, be generous, you need a little extra with this. And apply it all over the damp face and leave it on for about 15 minutes. When it is completely dry, I wet my hands and massage the product on the face and then wash it bit by bit. Another way I used it was, I apply it on and around the break out or acne at night and leave it overnight.

Now since I have normal to combination skin, I use it once in two weeks or sometimes even less, if I don’t break out. But during summers like right now, there are 1-2 months that I do break out coz of the mangoes and heat, that is when I get back to this.

It’s a boon for people with oily skin because the neem and turmeric being antiseptic and anti-bacterial do not let the germs in the acne spread around all over the face and kill them at the base. And in turn will also soothe the skin and let it heal faster. Fuller’s earth will absorb extra oil from the pores and deep cleanse it, so that more oil or acne is not produced.

It also comes in a small sachet form at Rs.15/- for 16g which is good for one time use and to carry for travelling. They also have this new TVC..

I absolutely love the Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Pack and do recommend it.

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

Have you tried the #HimalayaHerbals #PurifyingNeemPack yet? What do you think of it?

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub Review

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub Review

Hey guys,

I have always been a fan of Himalaya Herbals products, some of them are my Holy Grail and I have been using them since my school and college days i.e. years literally!

Today I am reviewing their Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub.

What it does: Himalaya’s Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub exfoliates dead skin cells to remove impurities that routine cleansing cannot tackle. It contains Crab Apple, a soothing antiseptic and keratolytic agent that helps loosen dead skin fragments. Walnut Shell granules scrub away dirt, blackheads and dead cells, and Wheat Germ Oil is a rich source of natural Vitamin E. These natural ingredients cleanse, nourish and moisturize your skin to make it soft, fresh and radiant.

Key ingredients:

Crab Apple has antiseptic, cooling, soothing, nutritive and keratolytic properties. It reduces skin inflammation and helps remove dead skin fragments. Crab Apple is also a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants which prevent skin cell degeneration and premature skin aging.

Wheat Germ Oil, due to its high concentration of Vitamin E, along with proteins and natural antioxidants, is ideal for most skin types. It is the perfect ingredient for our face scrub as it nourishes the skin and boosts the skin’s elasticity.

The exfoliating micro-particles in Walnut Shell scrub away dirt, blackheads and dead skin cells.

Directions for use: Apply Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub in a circular motion on the face and neck. Wipe off with a moist cotton pad. Rinse with water and pat dry. Use at least once a week for a glowing, healthy complexion.

Suitable for dry to normal skin.

Gentle Exfoliating Walnut Scrub is dermatologically-tested, non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

MRP: Rs.70/- for 50g, Rs. 130/- for 100g

It comes in an easy to carry and use, flip cap tube packaging. It has a slight medicinal smell which can be bothering for a few. I love the creamy base it has. And the walnut shell granules are not too harsh.

How I like to use it is, damp my face a bit, take some product on my fingertips and massage in circular motions all over the face, avoiding the eyes and lips. Go up and down on the nose and sides of the nose and also concentrate on the forehead and chin area, basically wherever you get whiteheads or blackheads.

I usually get more whiteheads and not that many blackheads, that too on my nose, exfoliation helps get rid of whiteheads before they turn into blackheads. If you exfoliate regularly, you can nip whiteheads in the bud and get rid of them. I usually exfoliate once a week coz I have combination skin, but if you have oily skin, exfoliate twice a week.

Since the base of this scrub is very creamy, it helps glide on the skin amazingly well and with ease, especially on damp skin. The granules being mild enough for use on the face too, even people with sensitive skin can use this, but if you have very sensitive skin, I would advise you to go with another Himalaya Herbals scrub and not this one, I would be reviewing that soon.

Also post washing the face, my skin is quite moisturised and does not feel stretchy or crave a moisturiser, thanks to the crab apple and wheatgerm oil in it.

Overall, I would say, like most of my Himalaya Herbals favourites, I like this one too. Totally recommend it for normal to combination and dry skin. I have something else for oily and sensitive skin, from Himalaya Herbals, which I would be reviewing next.

You can check out Himalaya Herbals on Facebook HERE and on twitter HERE

Have you tried the #HimalayaHerbals #GentleExfoliatingWalnutScrub? What do you think of it?

Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash Review

Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash Review

By Pallavi

Hiii Girlies,

I am a sucker of body washes. I have been using them since years and lately i have fallen in love with them. I have tried number of body washes since ages. Be it from the regular drugstore brands or the premium brands. This time I was eyeing the online marketplace to look for a brand new in terms of bath gel and I landed up with this baby – SEBAMED Liquid face and body wash. I am sure all of you might have heard the amazing properties of the foaming face wash which is supposed to be anti bacterial and all. And since it’s summers when i suffer the most with bacterial attacks and all so I decided to use the body wash. and that is the time when i bought this – Sebamed Liquid Face and body wash and thus here follows the review.

Price : Rs. 550 for 200 ml.

Ingredients : Water (Aqua), Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Laureth-2, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Glycol Distearate, Fragrance (Parfum), Saccharide Isomerate, Allantoin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pyridoxine HCI (Vitamin B6), Glycine, Magnesium Aspartate, Alanine, Lysine, Leucine, Biotin (Vitamin H), Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Sodium Citrate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sorbitan Laurate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Yellow 10 (CI 47005), Blue 1 (CI 42090).

Product claims : Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash is dermatologist developed, ultra-mild, and compatible with the most sensitive of skins. It gently deep cleans pores without causing dryness or irritation as regular soap can. Fortified with a natural moisturizing complex of vitamins and soothing allantoin, it rinses away completely for naturally healthier, smoother skin.

My experience with Sebamed Liquid Face and body wash

The packaging of this body wash from the house of sebamed looks like it is a medicinal product. The packaging has the product name and other details written all over it. The bottle is medium in size which makes it easy to carry around. It comes with a easy cap which needs to be only twisted to get the product out.

The texture of the body wash is medium in nature. But still you need to dilute it so that it easily spreads on your body. The body wash controls the amount of oil on your body and also reduces the presence or formation of any new bacteria or any allergies on your body. There is a bit of medicinal smell but nothing over the top so sensitive noses need not worry. And you require a very little amount per usage so a little product will easily go a long way.

Good about Sebamed Liquid Face and body wash

1. Medicinal properties

2. Little product goes a long way

3. Affordable

4. Easy to use texture

5. Does not dry out skin

6. Maintains the pH 5.5 balance of the body

7. Keeps skin bacteria free

8. 100% Soap and Alkali free

Bad about Sebamed Liquid Face and body wash

1. Nothing for me other than the availability part

Rating – 5/5

Editor’s Note: Wow, this sounds pretty good for summers Pallavi. Definitely checking this out right away, nice review.

Have you tried the Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash?

Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash Review

Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash Review

By Nidhal

‘Hypocrite’ is the word that explodes in my mind instantaneously when I see/read/hear people say that they do not care about fairness and then in the very next breath pass a hurtful jibe about someone’s complexion or suggest ‘best skin whitening/lightening products’. It is known fact that we Indians aren’t a fair bunch of people. We are capable of passing the most demeaning of barbs on someone who is not as fair as a Caucasian. Women in particular have since times immemorial have been pressurised and unduly so, to look eye-pleasing round the clock! One of the main reasons why ‘Fair and Lovely’ remains the brand that I always detested was the fact it drew mileage of this obsession of Indians.

It is not a question of whether fair is lovely or not. The point is that fair isn’t what is ONLY lovely. Whenever I see the daft-to- death advert of ‘Fair and Lovely’ with Yami Gautam looking as pale as an LED, I’m provoked to change the channel. But the final nail in the coffin comes when I see my younger cousins with ‘Lovely warm hues’ of skin that soothe eyes desperately surf the net to look for ‘Skin lightening tips’, all I am provoked to do is slap Yami and Fair and Lovely as hard as possible! You brainwashed the coming generations and lulled them into a whirlpool of inferiority complex.

The counter-argument would be that all actress, or at least a great many have at some point in their career endorsed skin whitening products. But it is “Fair and Lovely” that clearly uses ‘Fair’ as well as ‘Lovely’ in one sentence as if they’re synonyms. The corollary to it, will then be ‘Dark and Ugly’,right? That is why, I have always detested this brand. It instills self-doubt, inferiority complex and poor view of oneself if one does not cater to “their’’ view of beauty.

Anyway, let us sweep this issue aside for a minute. After long I tried a product from this brand. Why? Because one of my relatives was seen fiddling with it so, in order to put an end to her naive thoughts about the efficacy of Fair and Lovely, I thought of being a lab rat to let her see for herself. Let us see how it fared.

PRICE –Rs 25/- for 20g

DIRECTIONS FOR USE- Gently massage on wet face and rinse well.

INGREDIENTS- Made from glycerin, myristic acids, and water, the multi vitamin enriched face wash ensures a brighter and cleaner.

WHAT IT CLAIMS- Fair & Lovely fairness face wash gives you the 3 step expert action, which Cleanses, Exfoliates and Massages with Multi Vitamin formula.

MY EXPERIENCE-

Packed in a plastic tube with a cap on top, the packaging of Fair and lovely advanced multi-vitamin fairness face wash is fine. It is spillage-free, easy to carry and sturdy. As a result, it is up to the mark in terms of packaging.

The face wash has a creamy texture with a grey colour. Once smeared on one’s wet face, it produces a fine lather. It can worked up easily. However, the smell to me, is way too strong. I have always had an aversion towards the smell of most Fair and Lovely products and this one is no exception. It smells exactly like Fair and Lovely fairness cream. The smell increases a little more while being massaged. After massaging it for 3-4 minutes, as I rinse it, surprise surprise! There is no trace of fairness which was expected. So, to all to those looking at it with sheep’s eyes to whiten themselves, this one thankfully, falls flat on its topmost claim.

My skin is dry and this one sucked moisture all the more from my skin. It does whiten my skin in the sense that my skin becomes very dry and forms hideous white patches to soothe which, I need to apply a liberal dose of a deeply hydrating body butter. Yes a “body” butter!

Then, comes the cherry on the cake. Its ingredients’ list is firstly not even provided in case of the smallest package and when looked up online (on its website), it’s not completely furnished too. The bottom line is that it just a weapon of self-confidence destruction. Chuck it.

GOOD-

1. Readily available. (Sadly, this is a con in my opinion for everyone can lay their hands on something that instills inferiority complex in them)

2. Available in different sizes with the price varying according to the size (This again to me, is a con for people of all economic strata can now avail it hence, feel inferior with what they are born with)

3. Fine packaging

BAD-

1. Stokes in the feeling that dark/dusky/warm skin shade is ugly and it is only fair skin that is lovely and desirable. Highly disgusting!

2. Laden with chemicals. The package that comes in small size does not even mention the ingredients. At least there should be uniformity in such vital aspects.

3. Overly drying in nature. It whitens your face. How? It sucks up all the moisture hence, your skin automatically starts appearing white. Mission accomplished Fair and Lovely, right? NO.

4. Aroma is exactly same as that of its cram which I have always found puke-inducing. This is subjective but to me, the smell is strong and repugnant.

RATING-0/5

Editor’s Note: Totally agree Nidhal, it would be great if some girls read this review before buying such stuff and decide not to! It does absolutely nothing for anyone!

Do not buy the Fair & Lovely Advanced Multi-Vitamin Daily Fairness Expert Face Wash.