Saturday, July 18, 2015

Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Face Wash Review




Every year with slightest change in the weather, I battle with Cystic Acne. So if you would sum up, it would be four times a year. Last year, Sebamed and Cetaphil Cleansers helped along with prescription medicines.
That was the first time I consulted a dermatologist, since the condition was severe. This time there were just few I had to battle with and the dystopia was I woke up with atleast one every morning. Thankfully the clearing phase has begun.
So out of curiosity I bought this small bottle of Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Facewash which claims to Fight Oil & Pimple Germs (sic).

How long & how did I use Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Face Wash?
I used Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Face Wash for exactly four weeks, twice or thrice a day. I used almost 70% of the quantity.


My experience with Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Face Wash:

I have never reviewed a Face wash before; this one is with an intent. The instant results are squeaky clean face but with an oily-combination skin, the stretchy feel is unavoidable. After the morning cleansing routine, I find my face oily in just few minutes. But it does give a glow to my face because of Benzyl Salicylate & Salicylic Acid. I have been suffering from Pustules & Cystic Acne simultaneously, after using this I can see major difference in disappearance of Pustules. But I don’t see any difference in the clogged pores or Cystic acne.
To conclude, Garnier Pure Active High Foaming Face Wash will work for Acne Pustules which are less severe than Cystic Acne. I don’t see this working for Cystic Acne or Oily skin in terms of fighting oil & germs. Following with a moisturizer is indispensable; it tends to dry out certain areas of my face.


Cruelty-Free Status: Not Cruelty Free.

Price: 60INR for 50 grams

I would recommend this to anybody who suffers from occasional Acne or Acne pustules and nothing severe. I would not repurchase this though.


Thursday, July 16, 2015

Kama Ayurveda Store in Bandra: Details, Pictures and a bitsy Haul


Whenever I am in or around Bandra, I often make it a point to visit Kryolan’s Flagship store. So last time, when I was in Bandra, I hurriedly checked Kryolan and forgot visiting the Kama Ayurveda store, which is exactly opposite to Häagen-Dazs. So yesterday, I felt a little misplaced (perhaps, something I wanted was out of stock) and chaotic, not to mention, then I saw this warm, lit store and everything just settled down.

Where to find Kama Ayurveda Products in Mumbai?
Buy Kama Ayurveda Products in Mumbai

The store is unusually uncomplicated, well-lit and the place smelled of herbs, strong-smelling herbs. The shelves are adorned with all the products that are categorised perfectly. Shelves organised with skin brightening products, concocted oils and others with hair, body and gift boxes—neat, was all I could think. My mind was in a temporary truce with the ambience and behold, I told myself.

Cruelty Free, Paraben Free, Urea Free, Propylene Glycol Free,Ayurvedic Products in Mumbai

I was basically occupied in looking for things, I saw on their website. But I forgot all that I wanted. So, I randomly picked up things to try.

Cruelty Free Brands in India, Kama AyurvedaParaben Free brands in Mumbai

Kama Ayurveda Kumkumadi miraculous fluid was the first thing I smelt and applied on my wrist. My skin then was peculiarly dry and flaky with the cystic acne medication. I wanted something gentle and  Jasmine & Rose cleanser fit the requirement. I am currently using a mixture of Argan oil and Grapeseed oil as PM facial oil. I narrowed down to Nalpamaradi from Jwalini and Kumkumadi to treat my body tan.
SA gave me three tester samples of Kumkumadi night cream, Kumkumadi face scrub and Lavanya natural plant mask
Natural products do take a while to show results.

Kumkumadi Brightening Night Cream, Kumkumadi Brightening Face Scrub, Lavanya Natural Plant Mask, Nalpamaradi Thailam Oil, Rose and Jasmine face cleanser100% Natural and Cruelty Free Brands in India, Vegan Brands in India

Why I picked Kama Ayurveda products:

~ Cruelty Free
~ Organic Certification from Ecocert, India Organic and USDA Organic
~ No petrochemicals, parabens, urea, propylene glycol or sulphates (sic)
~ Vegetarian Products
~In the booklet I am provided with has mentioned the percentile of naturalism in their products. I liked their transparency even with regard to their ingredient list.
But I could not find the ingredient list on Nalpamaradi oil. I would preferably drop an enquiry
If the brand was a person, I would describe it as humble, kind, and luxurious (partly antithetical, I know).

I also noticed that not all of their gift boxes are for sale on their website. There were different variants at the store than listed on their website.

I am waiting to empty my skincare, shampoos and Oils. But I am hankering to try Kumkumadi serum and Lavender & Patchouli shower gel.

I am not affiliated to the mentioned brand. The products are bought by my own money.

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Nioxin Thinning Hair System 1 Kit Review & Price in India

Nioxin Thinning Hair System 1 Kit Review & Price in India

I did not Shampoo my Hair since the end of the year 2013. I have had a phase of “No Shampoo” which had great results on my thin hair.
I used Soulflower Shampoo Bars from November 2013 till February 2015. I switched to using Organix Biotin recently.
So when I switched to Nioxin since 16th May 2015 to present, I have been observing even the tiniest difference I feel in my hair and scalp. I jotted down pointers everyday in Evernote to keep my conclusive decision updated.
As adviced by Harsh, I did not use anything except these THREE products. And I blow dried only Once a week in the course. At times I missed my hair oiling sessions and Serum for detangling since I was hopeful about the results. Well read till the end to know my exact contemplative thoughts.

Where are the differences I notice currently:
In present tense because I’m yet to finish the kit.
~ Squeaky Clean scalp
~ Every hair had its own dimension
~ Hair collectively appeared fuller (my hair mostly are flat)
~ I had more fly aways than I could have handled with my two hands.
~ I simply noticed my hair growth is faster.
But
~ My hair tangles a lot
~ My hair ends resembles Broom bristles to be precise.
~ The volume was missing, though they appeared fuller. There’s a difference between both. (Check Week 4 Picture)

Technologies: BioAMP, Transactive Delivery System & Activ- Renewal (sic)

There are other products available to be teamed with the essentials like Nioxin Deep Hair Repair Masque, Nioxin Density Restoration & Dermabrasion Treatment.
I am sure my dry ends or bristled hair issues would have been tackled with repair masque. And the tangles issue with the serum.
And the moment of truth:
When I quit shampooing my hair, I used baking soda, Apple cider vinegar rinses or simply freshly brewed green tea with Rosemary and lavender essential oil rinses once a week. This method worked miracles for my thin hair. Here’s a picture I clicked somewhere in mid 2014, 6 months down ‘No shampoo’ method. My hair had body and they did appear fuller, even my pony tail appeared fuller.
Moreover my hair grew faster than it normally did perhaps because of Lavender, Rosemary & Peppermint Oil massages. My hair became course and brittle due to styling them twice-thrice a week hence I switched to Organix in February 2015.


Nioxin does not promote hair growth,reduce or stop hair fall. Nioxin doesn’t help in growing back reduced hair including receding hairline Nioxin solely makes the hair appear fuller, which is what ‘No shampoo’ method does too. A day old washed hair appear bouncier than freshly washed hair.

Here is a picture to show you the difference:

A week after Nioxin usage, before shower
4 Weeks later Nioxin, after shower
I love the Nioxin Cleanser; it is cooling and leaves a squeaky feeling behind. But the conditioner is not moisturizing/hydrating enough for my dry, brittle hair.

My concerns of not switching to Nioxin:
~ Shampooing, Conditioning everyday is not what I am comfortable with.
~ I cannot live without Oil massages on insomniac nights
~ I particularly look bald if I don’t use dry shampoo on bad hair days.
~ The Entire range is expensive added the monthly scalp facials every 40 days.
~ I have to style my hair to look human, unmistakably.

Price: 3000 INR excluding Taxes. The kit would last for 45-60 days depending on the hair length.

Cruelty Free status: Not Cruelty Free

Who would I recommend Nioxin to?
If you face hair thinning issues alone. (Don’t include receding hairline or hairfall).
You agree to follow the regimen every day.

I would recommend Scalp Facial or Microdermabrasion to everybody because the results are instant.
The bottom line is that I got the same results (fuller and denser appearing hair) with ‘No shampoo’ method and A sparkling scalp with fuller looking hair with Nioxin.
I personally adore the Bounce and volume I got from ‘No shampoo’ method and hair rinses.

Pardon my Scalpfie picture quality, the process turned out tougher than I imagined.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Everyday Work Wear Makeup Tutorial Ft Fair and Lovely BB cream ~ Fair and Lovely BB Cream Review and Details

I’m reviewing Fair & Lovely BB Cream and creating a unique look with it. The product is sent by the brand for consideration.

Fair & Lovely BB cream Review, swatches and FOTD

Fair & Lovely, the brand is synonymous with Fairness. It didn’t come to me as shock when the cosmetic industry was caught in a whirlwind of ‘BB creams’ and all the added alphabets.

Let me start with a note expressing that lets just look at Fair & Lovely entirely as a BB cream keeping aside all the else claims. I have been using Fair & Lovely BB cream for a week now, in the morning after cleansing. I did wear it in the sun and I got a blemish on my nose. So the first thing I did was check the ingredients list. The third ingredient on the list is Stearic Acid which is comedogenic and even found in sunblocks and lotions.

About Fair & Lovely:
Since 1975, Fair & Lovely has been a pioneer in safe and efficacious skin lightening – democratizing face care for millions of Indian women, and becoming the one of the largest selling face brands in India/countries that it operates. 

About New Fair & Lovely BB Cream
Fairness Cream with a Make-Up Finish
~ The revolutionary Fair & Lovely BB Cream combines benefit of fairness cream and make up foundation ~
Fair & Lovely, the pioneer of skin lightening creams and face care expert, launched the New Fair & Lovely BB cream, a revolutionary Fairness Cream that gives a Make-Up Finish. It’s an expert product that combines the benefits of foundation and multivitamin fairness cream - giving consumers access to the instant transformative power of make-up with the goodness of fairness cream.

Why BB cream?
Young Indian women want to look perfect all the time, and do aspire for the instant transformation that make-up/foundation can give, however they refrain from using make-up every day given the harm it may cause to their skin. With the new Fair & Lovely BB Cream make up like transformation is permissible every day, Apart from covering dark spots and blemishes instantly to give make up like flawless looking skin.

Fair & Lovely’s introduces first BB Cream
Enriched with multivitamins and SPF 15 PA++, Fair & Lovely BB Cream also nourishes the skin and protects it from harsh sunlight. Fair & Lovely BB cream mix has been meticulously crafted to now democratize make-up finish for millions of Indian women who want to get impeccable make up like texture to the skin, without worrying about any harm to the skin. It is Fair & Lovely’s first BB product with a vanishing sensory that delivers a matte, non-oily feel, a product tailored to local hot and humid climate. Its unique colour tone inspired by rose gold,blends naturally with Indian skin tones to give that gorgeous looking skin without application of any make up.
Fair & Lovely BB cream is the answer to a girl’s beauty needs, as it cuts down time consuming make up rituals to few minutes. Inspired by the trend of rose-gold, its premium white and rose-gold packaging strikes a beautiful balance – bringing together Fair & Lovely’s fairness expertise and the world of make-up.
So be it the first day in office, or college, or just a fun outing with friends this summer, make Fair & Lovely BB Cream part of the daily skin regime.

Here is a summed up review on the Fair and Lovely BB cream.

My initial thought on using Fair & Lovely BB cream was: The coverage could have been better.
The BB creams I have tried till date gave me a radiant dewy finish, Fair & Lovely for a change gave me a mattified satin/velvet finish.
The deviant thing that I have noticed while using Fair and Lovely BB cream is that if I were to use this on a hot summer’s day out in the sun/open air, after few hours my skin turns sticky. It could be because of high humidity, and I am not a touch up person (unless it is needed). So it becomes cumbersome to wear this on a hot summer’s day. I am looking forward to using this when the weather is clear.


New Fair and Lovely BB cream Review

What I liked about Fair and Lovely BB cream
~ The Rose Gold Packaging
~ Velvety Texture post application
~ Mattified effect that lasts upto 2-3 hours
~ Blends easily [If applied instead of moisturizer]
~ A great option for Oily skinned girls
~ It certainly does brighten up the complexion but on darker skin tones it would approximate a whitish cast.
~ Complexion looks nicer in person than in pictures
~ SPF 15 & PA++
~ Affordable and easily available

What I  didn’t like about Fair and Lovely BB cream
~ Universal shade that will not suit darker skin tones
~ It does accentuates dry patches on my combination skin
~ Fragrances in my face products sort of puts me off
~ No Coverage, concealer is quintessential.
~ Comedogenic Ingredient: Stearic Acid?
~ I did not notice any Fairness as per the claims

Fair and Lovely Makeup Finish BB cream Review, Everyday Work Wear Makeup Tutorial
Everyday Work Wear Makeup ft Fair and Lovely BB cream:
I was challenged to blog about an Everyday Work Wear Makeup look that one could achieve even with their hectic schedule. So I decided I would do a Subtle Everyday Work Wear Makeup that will go with Western as well as Indian formals, and in Five minutes.


Fair and Lovely BB cream review Work Makeup Tutorial

Step to Five Minutes Every day Work Wear Makeup Tutorial
~ Moisturize and apply Fair and Lovely BB cream. Blend fast or it becomes difficult to blend.
~ Powder your T zone and apply a Soft Pink blush.
~Use Fair and lovely as an eyeshadow primer and apply flesh toned eyeshadow all over the lid.
  Blend Cool toned Brown colour into the crease. Apply Eyeliner and finish off with a Mascara
~ Apply Coral Pink Lipstick. Top it with a moisturizing lip balm.
~Apply Highlighter on the highest points of your face.


Everyday Work Makeup Tutorial and Hair style, Pony tail for Work


Hair: Pulled back into a simple Pony tail and secured my bangs with bobby pins.

Fair and Lovely BB cream works great as an eye shadow primer. If you have oily lids, do give it a try.

Recommendation: If you are looking for a mattifying BB cream for Oily- Normal skin.
And an Eye shadow primer ;-)

Available in: 9g, 18g, 40g for 49, 79, 169 INR respectively.

Rating:  ♥ ♥ ♥

Sunday, May 24, 2015

Maybelline Colorsensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick Swatches: REB01, REB02, REB04, REB05, REB07

Maybelline NewYork has launched their Spring-Summer 2015 Collection in India with Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid Foundation, Maybelline Color Show Go Graffiti Nail Polishes and Maybelline Color Sensational Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks in India.

Maybelline Colorsensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick Swatches: REB01, REB02, REB04, REB05, REB07 in India
Add caption

While I was at the Maybelline counter yesterday, I observed the recent launches and Maybelline Color Sensational Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks captivated me out of their launches. There are total Six shades launched in here, out of six, five which were available over the counters.
My love for Nail Polishes is waning and I have already found my Holy Grail Foundation!

Maybelline Colorsensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick Swatches: REB01, REB02, REB04, REB05, REB07 in India

The Rebel Bouquet is quite Bold and Bright Colors and as Maybelline rightly describes them A burst of rebellious color!
The Oneness about this collection is based on Pastel Colors which are Summer appropriate.
Apart from that, the Lipsticks contain Honey Nectar providing a sumptuous feel to enrich the hydration.

The Texture: When I swatched these at the counter, the texture was semi-buttery and glided smoothly.
The Finish is ofcourse Lustre but I'm sure the hydration will work even on dry lips. I would love to mattify these by blotting or just dabbing on to the lips.

Maybelline Colorsensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick Swatches REB01, REB02, REB04, REB05, REB07
Add caption

The Pigmentation: Considering the colors are Bright, Bold and Pastel-ish,the Pigmentation is befitting. The best thing about bold and bright colors: You can wear them saturated or use as stain or layer with a clear gloss and tone the brightness down. Such colors are multipurpose for me. ;-)

Maybelline Colorsensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick Swatches: REB01, REB02, REB04, REB05, REB07 in India

REB01 is a bright Red and does appear lustre-high but is saturated. I'm sure it will go opaque in a single swipe.

REB02 is a Pink with mauve undertone.

REB04 is a cross between Red, Pink and Coral, looks very similar to Sleek Heartbreaker.

REB05 is a Tangerine with coralish Lustre, the lustre makes the color look a bit coralish.

REB07 is a pretty Pink with brown tones which makes it odd man out here. It isn't pastel or bright.
The softest shade in the collection and might be a perfect 'Rose Nude' for some. To sum up, A soft rosy shade.

The Packaging: I must say, the packaging is classic Maybelline Color Sensational. The Color of the bullet matches to the closing tube, hassle-free storing.

The Price: Maybelline Color Sensational Rebel Bouquet Lipstick is priced for 450 INR in India.

I skipped these for an obvious reason. *.*

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Nioxin in India: Scalp Facial ft. Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment & Nioxin Hair System Kit


The Bloggers before Scalp Facial.
The temperature is going through the roof with 33 degrees in Mumbai. Ever wondered how much gunk our hair follicles must accumulate with excess sebum, humidity and sweat?
We have Facial scrubs for the grime on facial skin. What about our scalp?
I always wondered why we don't get Scalp Scrubs since I suffer from scalp flakes in winter. So as home remedies, I would use various concoctions and rinses that would help remove the build up.
Currently, Scalp Facials or Scalp Micro-dermabrasion Treatments are frantic just like the sun.


Nioxin Now in India, Nalini and Yasmin Salon, Bandra. What are scalp facials?
 
So I picked up the opportunity to get myself a Scalp Facial and Try the Nioxin Hair System Kit. The venue was Nalini and Yasmin Salon in Bandra. We were quickly introduced to the brand, Nioxin with an in depth explanation of How Nioxin works and Why it is necessary to undergo Scalp Facial before using the Nioxin Hair System Kit.
Natasha Naegamvala and Harsh attended all our doubts and queries patiently. I'm revealing more details on Scalp Facial and my experience below.

What are Scalp Facials and what does they exactly do?
Hair grows and falls within a certain cycle that varies from person to the lifestyle they follow. Hairfall is normal when you loose 50-100 strands of hair a day. When a stand of hair completes it cycle, the Dermal papilla or the spot from where the hair bulb grows out turns vacant. This spot then accumulates sebum, dust, pollution, sweat and other foreign bodies restricting new hair growth or poor hair growth.
Scalp Facial or Scalp Microdermabrasion helps vacant or unclog (is a better word) these spots which helps a better growth cycle as well as gets rid of scalp flakes. It is equivalent to deep cleansing pores on facial skin.

So why can't we steam our scalp or massage scalp for a better Blood circulation?
Scalp massages are great, said Natasha. But they stimulate the hair follicles but they don't unclog the Dermal Papilla. From what I have read and experienced, Steam open up the pores on the scalp for better absorption of the product say Oil or Scalp conditioner better.
The AHA~ Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic Acid) is a natural exfoliant derived from Fruits, Vegetables and Botanicals. These AHA gently exfoliates the scalp unclogging the follicles and Dermal papillae.

Nioxin Cleanser & Revitaliser, Nioxin Intensive Treatment (Deep Repair) and Nioxin Scalp Renew (Serum). Nioxin in India
Left to Right ~ Nioxin Cleanser & Revitaliser, Nioxin Intensive Treatment (Deep Repair) and Nioxin Scalp Renew (Serum)

The whole story to be taken into consideration before going for Nioxin Hair System Treatment (Kit):

~ The System regime contains Nioxin Cleanser, Nioxin Scalp Revitaliser (Scalp & Hair Conditioner) and Nioxin Scalp Treatment (Scalp Leave-In) is ought to be used Daily or on alternate days at most.
Nioxin Hair System Kit costs roughly around 2300 INR.

~ Treating Hair to Oil or Oil massages should be avoided.

~ Avoid using any other products. Blow drying is allowed.

~ Treating your scalp to Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment is quintessential if you choose switch to the System.
Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment costs around 3000 INR for each session which should be followed up after 30-45 days.

~ Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment is Salon only Treatment. So book yourself an appointment with Natasha or any other salon that provides Nioxin.

~ Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment can be done even when you don't face thinning issues.


After the discussion, We all underwent consultation and Scalp diagnosis. We were asked about our concerns, lifestyle and health issues. After the session we were recommended System number accordingly.
My concerns: Crown Hair Thinning and Lack of volume.
Since my hair aren't chemically treated and are naturally thin, I was recommended Nioxin Hair System Kit #1: Normal to Thin-Looking Hair.
We were quickly treated to Scalp Facial or Scalp Microdermabrasion Treatment one by one. I was attended by Harsh. The treatment is applied by parting your hair in sections and only on scalp. It is then left on for about 10 minutes and followed with the System Kit.

Scalp Facial Nioxin in India, Experience at Nalini and Yasmin, Nioxin Scalp Dermabrasion Treatment
Nioxin Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment peppermint oil, white tea extracts and other botanicals which felt soothing and pleasant in this scorching heat.

The system of Cleansing, Revitalising and Scalp Treatment and blow dry was carried out by Nikita on me.


And the results!



My Hair felt a little weighed down and my scalp felt squeaky clean. I certainly felt my hair roots/Scalp if touched, smooth and refreshed. And they did feel thicker to touch, like every strand had it's own individual definition.

I have already started using the Nioxin Hair System Kit #1 every single day!
Check back after 20 days for my conclusive brainwork about the Nioxin Hair System Kit#1.

And here are more pictures from the Blogadda Event.

With Unconventionally Beautiful: Natasha Naegamvala

L to R ~ Oindrila, Renu, Stuti, Michelle, Me, Khushboo, Priyanka (I guess), Jhilmil & Aayesha
The BlogAdda Team
You can try and experience #NioxinNowIndia at your nearest salon. This activity is in association with BlogAdda.com

~ For any details on Nioxin or any queries, leave comments or drop me a line! =)

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Shop Fashion Online At Cheaper Rates: Check out Couponrani.com



Shopping is always something that is unavoidable at any point of time. We need to do shopping for one reason or the other, for self or for some others. But, if you are an ardent shopaholic, you must be very keen and will be having a budget for sure as you do shopping always. Most of us do shopping specifically but when it comes to those crazy shoppers, it is just random. They do shopping according to their mindset for the time.

Online shopping is one such place where you can do a lot of random shopping as you will see a lot of good offers and discounts available for quality and branded products. Apparently, you will be tempted to shop more than your confined list, thus landing in exceeding even your budget. But, there are several online stores where you can do tremendous shopping within your budget and all the products are assured to be of the finest quality and are from top brands. Have a look at these online stores from where you can get the best fashion products at the cheapest prices…

Snapdeal



Snapdeal is one such online shopping store where you get to see a wide range of categories including fashion and it is also one such store that always gets its customers with cool and amazing offers, tempting them to shop more. Snapdeal Promo Code can be used while you shop online to avail more discounts on your products. Check out the store for the latest collections in fashion that are trendy, that can make your friends look at you with awe.

Snapdeal also has a wide range of other products including electronics, footwear, makeup products and other articles that are available at amazing deals. So, do check for the store once while you plan to do a random or even specified shopping.

Zovi



Zovi is yet another amazing online fashion destination for all those people who are crazy about fashion and trends. It is truly a wonderful fashion hub for all those fashionistas, from whom fashion is more like their world. Zovi fashion is something that is too incredible as they have many unique fashion styles at their store to attract all those shopaholics crazy about fashion. Use Zovi Coupon Code while shopping and choose the right code that can help you get the best discount.

Trendin


Trendin is again one of the most popular online shopping stores for all trendy fashion outfits. This store makes you feel the latest trends at one place. Now that it is summer time, the store has a huge collection on those fashions that can keep you cool and stylish. Look for Trendin Coupons while making online shopping at this store for availing more discounts on your purchase.

There are plenty of other online shopping stores that are perfect destinations for being a real fashionista and that too by spending the least. So, next time do not forget to explore these wonderful online stores to grab the best fashion at the cheapest rates!


*Sponsored Post 

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

A Turnabout Chapter in switching Cruelty-Free

And I french kissed Winnie Cooper under the bleachers of 4th of july fireworks.
Things were changing.


Remember Kevin's voice-over in Season 4 of first episode?
The Wonder Years has to be my favorite coming of age series apart from Heartbreak high (I watched when I was 11 and restricted) and Dawson's Creek.

The Course had really begun unconsciously; I always favored certain kind over the ones laced with fanciness.
The conclusion of turning cruelty-free was not and is still not really easy. I was unsure of the temptations I will have to over throw. Nobody’s forcing me nor am I trying to convert people into buying Cruelty-Free. Back in the day I actually followed the cult. But now I restrict buying Chinese products, fireworks and all those things that lay any Child's labors.
I had to take my stance and proceed with practicality.
Things were changing.
My primal fear lied in parting with certain products and slim pickings of Cruelty-Free Makeup. I was not strictly Cruelty-Free then but chose them over the others.

How did I make a change in turning Cruelty-Free?
I abstained myself from buying any new products and concentrating on using all that I already have.
I will be discarding them with time, making room for more cruelty-free products. And now certainly I am going for paraben free, vegan and cruelty-free options. I am trying to really narrow down the options to the best I can.

Why Paraben Free and Vegan?
I was reading about Parabens, researching rather while I came across a Research Thesis by Ragnhild L. Aarflot where he initiated an instance that hormonally related diseases like Breast, Prostrate and testicular cancer, diabetes, obesity and reproductive disorders can be caused by prolonged effect of Parabens happened orally, dermally or by inhalation. My skin is prone to pigmentation and this has been  recently noticed. And to add it is due to hormonal imbalance, I am trying to take measures to see the effects of ceasing dermal exposure to paraben. I have been noticing my moods and state of mind as well. I would like any inputs if anyone knows more about them as well.

Reorganizing and Planning
I have shortlisted the brands and the products I would try and substitute with the ones I wanted to try. I want to get few more YSL Rouge Volupte but I am trying to find substitutes for them as well.
Over the age, I have been more profound towards Life and everything else. I have been putting more thought into everything that I am a part of and moreover even with those things that hold less importance seem equally important now. I have accepted and adapted to the change as easily as I could.





Friday, March 06, 2015

Optimism, Gratitude, and Happiness: How everything is interconnected

“Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.”
                                                                          - Alphonse Karr, A Tour Round My Garden

Being a logophile, I always look for the origin of words that appeal to me. That definitely comes from studying the origin of English. Likewise, Optimism comes from a Latin word, optimus which means "best".
I am sharing few of my bests to have an optimistic view towards life.



Smiling first thing in the morning.

Your day really depends on how you wake up, rather what you do when you first open your eyes. The first thing I do after my morning prayers (Hasta darshan; gratitude prayer for Mother Earth) is smiling.
Try smiling and being thankful that you woke up fine; sleeping is like being half dead.

Making someone's day

Smile at a stranger, buy flowers from street vendors, make someone laugh out loud, compliment someone, or share or give away your lunch to someone who really needs it.
There are so many things that one could do to make someone happy. I feel being kind ascends all these acts.

Gratitude and being humble

Humility is everything. Start a gratitude journal; write down all the things you are grateful for. If you cannot think of anything; honor the Sun, Mother Earth, Air (all five elements). You can express gratitude through various creative mediums. 

Books and plants make best companions

I surround myself with books. They make best companions and best time travelling mediums. Imagine if you touch old, vintage manuscript by some great writer; how much of their energy you would pick up! Likewise, surround yourself with flowering plants (vinca, hibiscus, butterfly pea) and foliage plants.

Using aromatherapy to radiate positivity

Forget perfumes, simple floral fragrance can instantly lift the mood. I have been using essential oils for ages now. Lavender for sleep, Narcissus to lift spirits and help overcome emotional setbacks. Light scented candles, add essential oils in diffuser, or even dab some on your pulse points as mood enhancer. 

Meditation

Meditation is a great way to declutter your mind, making a way for positivity. If you cannot find time for meditation, listening to instrumental music (raag) can calm the mind, or simply concentrating on the rhythm of your breathing can do wonders. Take charge of your prana.


I would like to add a proverb we all grew up listening to: Charity begins at home. There is so much positivity and optimism if you really open your eyes. Today is never too late to start! :)


Thursday, March 05, 2015

How things work and an insight


My mind of times wanders to a state, where I am startled. I was planning out my schedule on how much time I should spend on blogs and etc. I often get swayed with the extremity of the behaviour, or of laze. So when I was busy organizing my life, I outlined how much of my time I should invest on the blog/s and watching Wayne Goss, Lisa Eldridge & Sineady Cady.

I am intrigued at how ideas come to me, I have a plan for month but then I get diverted to something ‘in vogue’. But I have to admit, I look for ideas in current Magazines. I keep a journal of what all I’m applying (skincare) the following week, beforehand. And I keep a track of how my skin reacts to everything and anything.
When I recurred to blogging, I had decided not to review Skincare. When I was reading Skincare product reviews before trying anything, nothing much was helping. But then, I wouldn’t mind if the product is exceptionally fine. Hence, I decided to put up pages from my Skin Journal.
Here are few things I would like to put forth on how I program updating the blog.

I plan and schedule
I am a firm believer in planning and organizing, I don’t just jump into things that deserves my time and attention. Hence I plan for the week or month before hand. I’ve decided not to rush for things that are in for long haul. You know what I mean here, I’m a snail.

Unused or Disliked Products
This happens most of the times, I buy something new and then I forget it. It just stays there unopened and brand new waiting to catch my attention. But then it disheartens me to throw away or discard something I’ve bought with much hope. So I have planned a limit of buying stuff, to control the wastage. For instance, I won’t exceed 2-3 opened mascaras on my vanity.
So that I do justice to what I spend for and keep check on how much I spend too. Keeping a track of stuff and their expiry or discard dates, I certainly like hand written documentations.
My real challenge and devotion lies in making a certain product/shade work.

Makeup & Makeup Looks
These come out of the blue for me. In the year 2013-2014, I made two folders in my laptop FOTDs & Makeup 2014 clicking all the little bits of makeup variations I tried during the ‘learning’ process. I did makeup back then everyday because I was learning and being practical at the same time. This is the only unforeseen element of the blog, sometimes.

How do I proceed

When I went back to the old posts and drafts, I found most of them were really fillers for the quality I was looking. So I got rid of them all and decided to keep only those fit the bill.
47 blog posts. 3 years. So I decided to blog twice a week, and more if I need frequent breaks from reading/studying. Makeup and Blogging have been my resort from everything else in my life that if not would be living under a rock. Not many know the relationship I have with makeup.

Blog postings
I draft them first using the pointers I jot down before sleeping sometimes memos in the phone works too. And moreover, T and I discuss a lot about how things work for her and for me. We exchange samples, we recently exchanged Makeup primers and Biotique lotions. (MAC sample jars come real handy)
I draft them in Word files and rewrite them before posting, twice. I find most of the times; I tend to write too many things at once. I make sure I keep my posts compact, and to the point. This has been so far a real challenge for me. I want to add as much information I could and have experience with certain Makeup product.
I decided to put all these plans into one post since I do not like to deviate from the origin of the post/review. I think in the coming months, I am going to trying laying ahead everything I’ve learn so far, and still in the process.

Wednesday, March 04, 2015

My Current Hand creams




I sanitize and clean my hands a lot. I get a sloppy feeling when I can’t clean/wash my hands. I wash them quite often and sanitize when outdoors.
I have dry hands, extreme in winters and if comes in contact with detergent/harsh soap all I am left with is chapped hands. (Allergic to harsh soaps/detergents)
I am listing down my favorites and not-so favorite hand creams.

The Body Shop Festive Hand cream Trio, Ginger Sparkle, Cranberry Joy and Vanilla Bliss

The Body Shop Festive Hand Cream Trio (Cruelty-Free)
This was gifted by my Brother- in-law, I think a December 2013 edition . The Trio includes Cranberry Joy, Vanilla Bliss and Ginger Sparkle. I liked the idea of fragrance combination: Fruity, Woody and Spicy. I am floral lover, fruity-floral at the most.
These leave an oily residue, which I dislike but these make hands baby soft overnight. But the moisturization is not good enough for my extreme dry hands. I dislike using these during day time as well.

Aquasoft
This one’s for chapped hands due to soap/detergent recommended by T. My sensitive skin reacts with harsh soaps/detergents. This has been so far a sigh of relief from chapped hands. No oily residue, it absorbs and leaves a soft veil, which disappears after sometime.
This is I guess the cheapest of the lot. I have noticed my nails grow faster when I use this cream.
I can't recall the price, I discarded the outer carton.

Neutrogena Hand cream
for INR 300

If you want to use hand cream and not feel like you have applied any. (You get what I’m saying)
I would call this an invisible hand cream; it provides instant relief. I adore this I am while reading; it does not stain my books and pages. This fairly works for my chapped hands too.
I suffer from palmar hyperhidrosis (sweaty palms), so if I use this outdoors it melts off with palm sweat. To keep it intact, I have to rub it in my palms. (Imagine rubbing back your sweat back on your skin. Eeeks!)

Etude House Mini Pet Handcreams in India


Etude Mini Pet Hand cream for $5.50 each
This is light hydration and results in instant soft hands. It does absorb quickly and does not leave a residue. I absolutely love the instant soft hands; I sometimes layer this with The body shop’s hand cream at night. My palms sweat a lot when I wear this outdoors, especially in warmer months.
I need to hydrate my hands after I sanitize or else, the skin feels extremely dry. I sometimes apply this to my elbows and knees, they turn incredibly soft.
I spotted same Sharpeners online on some Korean stationery site.

So If I had to narrow down to one, I am happy with Aquasoft but I am still looking out for a hand cream which does not leave an oily residue, break my palms into sweat and work for my chapped fingers.

I'm mentioning the Cruelty-Free brands till I post a consolidated list Post of C-F Brands with citations/ref list.