Makeup Discourse

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.

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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!



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.

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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. ;-)



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. *.*

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.


 
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.

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.

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! =)

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 

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.

Smiling first thing in the morning.

Making someone's day

Gratitude and being humble

Books and plants make best companions

Using aromatherapy to radiate positivity

Meditation

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.

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 (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 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.

There is this thing about spring; everything is bright bathed in a golden hue. I dislike winter, I find a disparate solace in spring when there is a still winter’s chill in the air bracing the warmth of the spring.
A Transition...


What inspired my eye makeup?

Pastel Wash of Colour
Robustness of a Brown eye shadow
and the periphery of the Black wing eyeliner

I wore this look in the late afternoon when I went to the Lotus counter, and I paired this with a Coral Pink polished lips. The eye shadow and the lipstick complement each other and are somewhat similar. At first I assumed, it would look absurd, but it did not. I used 4 eyeshadows: Ribbon, Pamper, The Mail and Boxed from Sleek Oh so Special.


Here is how I did my Pastel Coral Pink eye makeup:

~ Created a base using NYX eye shadow base in white 
~ Applied and blended Pamper all over the lid for Ribbon as a base lid colour
~Packed Ribbon on the eye lid, use it wet if you find it difficult to apply.
~Blended Boxed into 3/4th of crease from the outer corner of the eye, you can create a ‘V’ if you like
~I blended it well, almost because I wanted the robustness of brown to peek through the colour & application technique.
~I blended the edge of Boxed with a mixture of The Mail and Pamper.
~ Finally I added Bow under the eyebrow.
~ Winged it out keeping the edges sharp as I intended.

Products used to create Pastel Coral Pink Eye makeup

I kept the Base for makeup, extremely light. A pump of MAC Match Master set with MAC Mineralize Natural Skin Finish. I added a soft Rose Pink Blush by NYX in Peach, skipped Bronzer & highlighter.
For the Lips, I applied Rimmel London Kate Moss Spring Collection #16, a soft Pink with a hint of coral topped with a clear gloss. This Pink Lipstick brings out the yellow in my skin which I like, I fancy the illusion.

inanely raised my brows for the Transition to be visible

Coming to Transition, I wanted to create a transition of colours and undertones on the eyes.
A Neutral Coral Pink Pastel ~ Warm Matte Brown ~ A mixture of Pamper and The Mail, both Cool and Neutral Undertone and A Cool White with a hint of Pink under the eyebrow.
All this and a wearable Day time Look, I have two more ideas I fancy to put into action.

Friedrich Nietzsche said, “There are no facts, only interpretations.”
And I conclude, Makeup is an interpretation likewise. =)


P.S. I discovered a great tip to neutralize/cover the dark or pigmented eyelids without concealer or foundation. I have pigmentation on my eyelids, certainly not easy to make eye shadows work.

Schwan! (learn about it later in the post)


I went to the nearest Lotus Herbals counter and was disappointed not to find the Colorkick Curved Eyeliner. But I really wanted to kowtow the 'Cruelty-Free' conclusion here. I wanted to start adding C-F products to my vanity.
And Lotus Lipsticks ascended the list, so I wanted to find an orange lip colour for summer and something coral-ish pink and I wanted to narrow one down from the newly launched shades. I got Lotus Whiteglow Gel Creme- 20g free for purchasing above 1000inr.

I was disappointed!
T and I visited the Beauty Centre which is few blocks away from the Uni, and I found it there and oh-the-discount!
T picked up the Colorkick eyeliner which she will be reviewing soon ;)

It is pretty hot and sunny, like in summer already. I was in need of a sunblock for Body and a mattifying something too. Vichy isn't mattifying at all and I need something C-F. I tested this on the back of my hand at the counter yesterday and I was taken by the mattified finish.

~Biotique Bio Vera 75+ SPF Suncreen (for 180 inr, 148 with discount)
The smell is strong, the lotion makes the skin soft but the fragrance is overwhelming. Though it fades after application. (completely disappeared by now, after 2 hours.)

~Lotus UV Screen Mattegel PA+++ SPF 50 (for 395inr, 297 with discount)
I wish it provided cooling effect on skin. It made my normal/combination skin stretchy!, I think I will have to layer this onto Vichy. Hopefully this will make a decent primer too.

Tangerine, Carnation & Coral Candy

I picked up the Coral Candy 434 from the Lotus Eco-Stay range; Carnation & Tangerine from Pure Colors range.

~Lotus Eco-stay Coral Candy (for 545inr)
A Coral undertone Pink? OR Blue based pink color with a hint of coral? I cannot elucidate the colour.
But its bright and summer appropriate.

~Lotus Pure Colors  Tangerine & Carnation (for 275inr each)
I applied Carnation today to test the staying power. I applied it in the morning and it was too warm for my neutral complexion, more like orange brown with hint of pink.
I blotted it several times to make it suitable for day & the place I visited. I applied Neutrogena Lip moisturizer thrice from 10-3, and it stayed on for 4 hours and then slowly faded. I had a hint of the lipstick when I came back. I like that it does not leave the tint behind, not it does look patchy while fading. I'm impressed.

Coral Candy, Tangerine & Pink Carnation

~Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eyeliner (for 725inr, 617inr with discount
I did not expect this, I would avert jumping onto conclusions. You will see, won't you?
I tested the Eyeliner on the inner palm. I'm wondering about its staying part, I cannot wait to wear it tomorrow, out in sun and humidity. What I really want to see is, if it transfers to crease in humid climate, which is what happens with me most of the times.


It is definitely smudge free, once it dries. It take its own good time to dry, nor too slow nor too quick.
The tap test: It did not bleed under force of water, but it did smudge when I wiped it off.
This is priced for 725inr, I got this for 617inr, almost 100inr off from Beauty Centre, Crawford.


Lakme Eyeconic, Ikonic Eyeliner & Lotus Colorkick have one thing in common, the manufacturing company: Schwan-STABILO Cosmetics GmbH & Co.KG, a Germany based manufacturer.
I have liked Eyeconic, not on the water line. It stings my eyes in summer, probably the heat. But then I do not like my waterline lined.
I'm testing the Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eyeliner tomorrow. I'm enthused. *.*

I singled out the Felt Tip Eyeliners over Gel ones, obviously the cult fancy, Maybelline Drama Gel Eyeliner.
I liked it too... at some indefinite point of life. Maybe, I am the only one who did not repurchase. I still have the swirl one, used once or twice but that isn't half good as the Black one.

First few months
Me to Myself: I think I found the Best Gel Eyeliner (even though it's the first you've used)

Few Months Later
No, this is not what I like I want Bourjois Felt tip Eyeliners, all of them.

I bought the Bourjois Mega Liner, from Asos. It was not launched in India, I'm not sure if it is.
And I wanted to try, Maybelline Colossal Liner which is on the brink of running out, I used it so much. ( All this official declaration of turning 90% Cruelty Free)
I have given and discared most of the stuff already, Oh the horrid 'Makeup Academy Uk' products, I'm talking about. The Bourjois Mega Liner is still pitch black with no sign of running out, believe me even though It was the only eyeliner I've used since October 2014.

I planned on Physicians Formula and NYX Eyeliners, but I would've to wait till June for that!
And then I came across this when I was browsing through the website figuring out what I would need to try!

Lotus Colorkick Curved Eyeliner	http://www.lotusherbals.com

Definitely a microfiche of the NYX 'The Curve', an award winner for $15 approx. 975 INR!
Lotus Colorkick Curved Eyeliner is definitely reasonable for 725 INR. (Oh! My mind calculated the Tax+shipping/handling)
I am hoping it is decent enough for me to commit to it. I am not expecting a lot. Honestly!

And the 9 Added shades to their Ecostay Lip Colors

~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Maroon Mash
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Coral Candy
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Spicy Red
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Coral Crave
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Me 'N' Mauve
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Persian Pink
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Orange Dream
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in My Melon
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Magneta Magic



My Picks would be
~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Coral Candy

~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Coral Crave

~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Persian Pink

~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in Orange Dream

~Lotus Herbals Ecostay Lip Color in My Melon

I am heading to the Lotus Herbals counters today and trying out the shades, get hold of the eyeliner and a lipstick from newly launched shades.



AND A Shout out to Saravana, Please fix my Page Elements :)

The Blog has been steering clear of Makeup Looks or Face of the Day. Well I'm breaking all the rules.
I have had this Maybelline Color Tattoo in 20. Painted Purple, free stuff on some unnoted amount.
I wore it just once, but with the onset of Spring I had a look panned out in my head. But the end result turned out better!
Since this is a Day Time Spring Makeup, I kept it simple, subtle and refrained from 'smoking' out the edges.
I wanted to do something 'warm cheery yet mindful' look. I have seen Purple & Pink combinations, all the time. I really wanted to try Bright Orange and Purple and make it look wearable. I would not dare to wear a medium to full coverage foundation, as I did in this look.



For Face:
MAC Prolongwear Foundation (sample) in NC42 ( it is too warm/yellow on me)
MAC Skin finish Natural in Medium Golden

For Cheeks:
Kryolan TC1 (Orange) Blush
Sleek Contour Kit in Light


For  Lips:
Streetwear Color Rich Ultramoist Lipstick in Pink Persuasion
Revlon Colorburst Lipgloss in Papaya Punch


For Eyes:
NYX Eye shadow Base in White
Maybelline Color Tattoo in Painted Purple
A Purple Eyeshadow from Sleek Acid
Crease Blending Colour, Highlight and Eye brow Highlighter from Coastal Scents Revealed2
Maybelline Colossal Liner
Bourjois Beauty Full Volume  Mascara + Rimmel Extra Super Lash


I started off by priming my eyelids and letting the base set for a minute. I went over the entire eyelid with Maybelline Color Tattoo and blended the harsh edges.
I blended as soon as I applied the eye shadow. I blended the Purple eye shadow from Sleek Acid into the crease.
To add a transition, I used the marked Brown Colour and blended seamlessly above the Purple.
I added the Highlighter in the inner corner and used a Matte Highlighter for eyebrows.
I used a card for the first time to map out my wing, I prefer the freedom. I kept the wing subtle and non dramatic, extending it to 1/4th of my lower lash line to add an illusion of elongation.
And then did rest of my face.

I am planning on doing more wearable colourful eye makeup looks for the spring and summer. =)

P.S.  Pardon my ungroomed eyebrows.

=)

The other night I was studying (post midnight) and filing my nails. I have had my hair loose, a bit limp with the Shea butter mask I had applied a day before. I noticed two split ends from the corner of my eyes; I wondered why I had them since I renounced Heat stylers (excluding the Philips Kerashine) for the hair.


And the next thing that I did was inquisitive

I took the hair shafts between my fingers, resting on my palm. I filed the latter half of the ends (Split ends) in gentle downward strokes.
 I Filed those split ends off gently and rubbed in some argan oil to the hair ends before sleeping.

I don’t want to think about the science behind damaging my cuticles by filing them. I am struggling to grow my Hair long and chopping them would be a disappointment.
I am sure it is absurd to file your split ends, but maybe when you do so you are opening your hair end shaft to absorb the Oil or Serum you are going to apply better just like cutting or using warm water?
And applying Oil or Serum is to condition the hair shaft, if damaged.
I am sure there would be other substitutes out there like Keratin rich Hair mask, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Coconut Oil or any Oil that would repair.

Is it the Oil/Serum made my split ends look less visible? It would be hard to tell the difference.
I wonder this filing would work on curly hair; I am looking forward to ask someone to try it.
But for now, I am going to file away my split ends. And I hope that would either conclude with a Quick Fix that would work or I would get to learn something from it (my inquisitive brain).

What are the other Bizarre Quick fixes for Split ends that are buzzing? I want to know. I am inquisitive!

Foundations have been riveting me ever since I have forsaken BB creams. I was in love with Bourjois Healthy Mix; no I did not re-purchase it with the lone reason of shade mismatch. Though it looked natural, it would oxidize on my Normal/Combination skin. I am looking for my ‘Perfect Match’ Foundation from MAC these days. I like the formula, staying power but the shade either runs yellow or oxidizes. I have loved Match master & Prolong wear so far, but the latter has a dominant yellow tone.
Focussing on this one, I bought Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation from Asos along with Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation.

What does Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation claim:

Tested and approved by 97% of women,* the “new generation” foundation for a rested yet radiant complexion and a flawless, even result for up to 16hrs**
Its formula:
3 colour correcting pigments:
1. Yellow pigments – conceals dark circles for a rested look
2. Mauve pigments – corrects dullness for radiance
3. Green pigments – neutralises redness for an even out the complexion
Soft and smooth formula for an undetectable second skin finish. Available in 9 natural shades to suit all skin types.
And it’s good for my skin!
- 24hr hydration**
- SPF 10
- Cotton Flower – hydration & anti-shine
- non comedogenic, lets skin breathe

Price: £10.99 (approx. 1109)
1450 INR in India


When this was new, the texture was semi-runny but now it has thickened a bit. It has delectable mild floral fragrance I like. Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation in 56 Beige Rose turned out a bit lighter during the warmer months but it is a close match during colder months. The wear time is around 6-7 hours, though my nose would turn shiny after 2-3 hours. It does starts to fade after 6-7th hour depending on the clime. (I use blotting papers/tissues.)
I use Rimmel Stay Matte to set this foundation on my T-zone which additionally elongates the shine free hours.
Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation takes a little effort in blending; it does not go easy and sets quicker. I use sponge and flat top brush to blend this seamlessly. Blending foundation with fingers is not much of a good idea with this one; it tends to settle on fingers more than the desired area.


My skintone is Neutral and Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation is a cool toned pinkish beige, beige being the dominant. Medium Coverage gives ashed results around my eyes or mouth hence I avoid building coverage with a corrector underneath. And to add, it does look patchy on the dry areas. I add a drop of Jojoba oil to the Foundation and work it out. The 3 Colour correcting pigments failed to hide my dark circles though my redness and dullness was corrected.

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation warmed up with Bronzer during Summer

Making Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation work for Warm Skin tone:
I use a Matte Bronzer to add warmth to my face which makes it look much better on me. Or use an Earthy/Warm Blush. I stick to Neutral Colours for Lips as well. I have even used a Brown Eyeliner to balance out the Warm-Cool tones.

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation applied alone and sheerly blended during Winter

Why Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation:
An excellent Matte Finish Foundation
Sturdy Glass bottle (dropped it once)
Neutralizes Redness
3 Hours of Matte shine free skin
A Pump and a half covers the entire face (little goes a long way)
Adequately conceals if build up
SPF 10
Non Comedogenic
Medium Build able Coverage

Why not Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation:
Accentuates dry patches, dryness and fine lines under the eyes
Inordinate Price for a Drugstore Foundation

Rating: 4 of 5

Recommendation: Yes, for oily skin and matte finish lovers. I love it as sheer coverage and natural matte finish.

I was once in love with these wonderful little things, alas! No more.

De-cluttering my vanity and keeping it brimming only with the ones I intent to use is one of my resolutions for 2015.
I have been collecting and repurchasing Lip balms, all kinds a lot. I do create my suitable versions of homemade lip balms using Beeswax, olive & almond oil too.
I like using clear or tint free balms when indoors so hydrating my lips is my only intent. Some of these tints are good enough to replace the lipsticks.
They all end up lying on the shelves, inadequate of my attention and they expire.

Here are the chosen ones that are easily available:

Nivea Lip care Fruity Shine
Nivea had launched these two flavours in Watermelon & Peach. These are decently pigmented and hydrated adequately. I did not like them much, like I do the pomegranate version.
I seldom use them so I won’t be repurchasing them though Nivea Essential Lip care works wonders for chapped lips sans the greasy lips.



Chaptick
I had got these from Feelunique, three different flavours in a tin- Strawberry, Cherry & Green Apple.
The regular version was bought separately. I use these exclusively under lipsticks, as goes the name it fills up the chaps. Even the matte lipsticks look better with this underneath.


Maybelline Electro Pop in Oh! Orange! and Maybelline Lip Blossoms in Pink Blossom and Peach Blossom
I like them when I need a hint of colour. The orange version looks subtle and goes great with my heavy kohled eyes. It hydrates well but the packaging is a steal.
For tinted ones, I like these Lip blossoms both the versions. The Pink ones in both Electro Pop and Blossoms are similar in terms of tint. But boy! These take makeup remover to get off the tint from lips.

Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer with SPF 15
I am sure this one and the next one, will be repurchased till I am bored for eternity. I use this when I’m out in sun, a layer above my lipstick and touch up for hydrated lips.

EOS Lip Sphere in Sweet Mint
I got hold of this back in summer, extreme light hydration and slight tingling (hello! peppermint). A perfect combination for summer, and oh the sp-here!
I got this one from the States and I’m sure I’ll get a new one for this summer.



If I had to choose one lip balm from these, I would choose Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer; it’s light, it hydrates and has SPF 15.
In the year 2015, I don’t intent to be trying or buying any more lip balms. Let us not count EOS Lip spheres and Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer in them.

Xo  *.*

The truth behind Cleansing brushes that I discovered lately. A usage history runs down in process of this review.

Olay ProX Microdermabrasion + Advanced Cleansing System Usage: For 28 Days
Proactiv Deep Cleansing Brush Usage: For 7 days

I have been wishful of Clarisonic Brush, the maintenance and 'purging' scared me. I have used a manual cleansing brush and some tools in the past. I have been electrified with the results on first usage of Olay ProX, my skin was smoother, softer and glowed on the forehead, nose and cheeks.
Fortunately, I did not break out nor had a ‘purging’ phase.
I clean my makeup with baby wipes and then use the brush with Neutrogena Deep clean. I do not run the brush on my face for more than a minute. I keep counting to 60 with moderate speed.