Sunday, August 23, 2015

My New Camera: Bokeh Photography, Literary Love-Letters and the rest

My New Camera Canon 70D for Beauty Blogging: Bokeh Photography, Literary Love-Letters and the rest.

Bucket List: A Wall full of Pictures. [Probably in the living room]
Someday, I will have a wall full of pictures and stories behind each that would have the privilege of being on it. 
A Wall of fables, fantasies and tales... I would call it.

My mind was overwhelmed with Bokeh Photography for more than twenty-two months. I put the lights over my bed’s headboard for added ambiance  and it would always show up unfocussed in the pictures. Bokeh. was all I wanted. And then I toppled in this phantasmagorical world of photography.

When I bought a compact camera, I did not plan, walked into the store and purchased the first camera I noticed. A baseless rather unconcerned behavior I would call it.

Much later after winding up the academics, I experimented with photography again. This time I tried Bokeh Photography with the Canon Ixus 510 hs. And the results were admirable. Here are few pictures:

Bokeh Photography with Compact cameras Canon ixus 510hsBokeh Photography with Compact cameras Canon ixus 510hs

When I was deciding on a Digital SLR, I did not wanted to start out with the beginner ones. I am inquisitive and I don't do things halfheartedly. I had both my eyes on the Canon EOS 70D. And I would have waited till eternity...
After a lot of contemplation I finally bought Canon 70D! 

Natural light bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR
view from my window
Bioderma in India buy online,  Bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR Photography

Yves Saint Laurent Beauty YSL Rouge Volupte

Infinity Bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR PhotographyNatural light bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR
Natural light bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR

I am smitten! Can't you tell?


 Bokeh with Canon EOS 70D DSLR Photography

An ode to his eyes... [INCOMPLETE]

Portrait Photography would be the next after mastering the art of Bokeh. I cannot yet explain the fancy and mind boggling words like Aperture, Field of depth and gah gah. And the best part about 70D is I can click my own pictures with a remote, tripod and the highly adjustable screen.


I am thinking of Poesies in images next...

Saturday, August 22, 2015

Asus Diva Meet in Mumbai ~ Launch of Five Asus ZenFones along with Asus ZenFone Selfie.

Source

Few days ago, I got a chance to attend the Asus Diva meet at The Grand ITC, Mumbai. The meet essentially was held for the launch of FIVE Asus Phones with Asus ZenFone Selfie garnering monumental consideration.

The event started around 7 in the evening, followed with an official launch of Asus ZenFone Phones by Asus Managing Director Mr Peter Chang and with deeper insights about the functions and specification by Mr Charles. But the crème de la crème of the sprightly evening was VJ Anusha Dandekar’s tips on Selfie Makeup. Anusha profusely shared all her precise secrets of taking perfect selfies. Before I list down Anusha Dandekar’s ‘Perfect Selfie’ secrets. Here are the Asus ZenFone Phones that were launched that evening.

Asus MD Mr Peter Chang
Zenny in the drive

ZenFone 2 Deluxe: See the crystal miracle
ZenFone 2 Deluxe (ZE551ML) delivers powerful all-round performance and beauty in abundance, with a gorgeous new multifaceted polygonal finish accentuating the signature ZenFone 2 Ergonomic Arc design. ZenFone 2 Deluxe features a 5.5-inch Full HD IPS display, 13MP/5MP PixelMaster cameras, 2.3GHz 64-bit Intel® Atom™ processor with 4GB RAM and 4G/LTE connectivity. ZenFone 2 Deluxe also features ASUS BoostMaster fast-charge technology for 60% capacity in just 39 minutes. As with all other ZenFone 2 models, ZenFone 2 Deluxe includes the latest ASUS ZenUI — the world’s first fully-customizable mobile interface — and Trend Micro™ security software for safe web browsing.

ZenFone 2 Laser: See at the speed of light
ZenFone 2 Laser models all benefit from a powerful 13MP PixelMaster camera with an f/2.0 wide-aperture lens to capture stunning, high-resolution photos with zero shutter lag — augmented by laser auto-focus technology that empowers users to capture perfect clarity in just 0.3 seconds. Available in 5-inch (ZE500KL), 5.5-inch (ZE550KL) and 6.0-inch (ZE601KL) versions with up to 1920 x 1080-pixel Full HD resolution, ZenFone 2 Laser also incorporates the latest and toughest Corning Gorilla Glass 4. It boasts an up to octa-core 64-bit Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor with up to 3GB of fast memory for unwavering performance.

ZenFone Selfie: See the perfect you
ZenFone Selfie (ZD551KL) is a trailblazing fusion of fashion, technology and craftsmanship that lets users see their perfect selves, with dual 13MP PixelMaster cameras, dual-color, dual-LED Real Tone flash both front and rear, plus laser auto-focus for ultra-fast shots with complete clarity.
ZenFone Selfie’s Ergonomic Arc design and intuitive rear key makes capturing selfies easier than ever, with live digital cosmetics to apply some magical glamor — all enjoyed instantly on the stunning 5.5-in Full HD display.
ZenFone Selfie’s exceptional front-facing PixelMaster camera has a huge 13MP resolution and an f/2.2-aperture, 88-degree wide-angle lens to capture more of every smile. The unique Selfie Panorama mode enables selfies with an outlook of up to 140 degrees, so everything and everyone becomes part of the shot.
ZenFone Selfie’s rear camera is just as advanced, with a large f/2.0 aperture lens for superior low-light shots. Both cameras are engineered with five-prism Largan lenses and top-quality Toshiba sensors, and include dual-LED Real Tone flash technology for perfect illumination in any lighting conditions. ZenFone Selfie also delivers superb macro photography that works on subjects as close as 6cm, plus rear laser auto-focus to compose shots in the blink of an eye.

ZenFone Max: See for longer
The highlight of the new ZenFone Max (ZC550KL) is its incredibly-long-lasting high-capacity 5000mAh lithium-polymer battery that gives users an unprecedented amount of mobile freedom.
ZenFone Max has a bright and clear 5.5-inch IPS display with wide viewing angles, protected by the latest Corning® Gorilla® Glass 4 for unrivalled scratch-resistance, strength and everyday durability. At the heart of ZenFone Max is a powerful yet power-efficient 64-bit Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor with up to 2GB of RAM. ZenFone Max features a 13MP/5MP PixelMaster cameras with a wide f/2.0 aperture, and the rear camera also boasts laser auto-focus for sharp, near-instant shots.

ASUS ZenPad 7.0 (Z370) and 8.0 (Z380)
ASUS ZenPad features clean lines, embossed-leather patterning, and premium styling influenced by fashion accessories such as clutch bags and wallets for a luxurious appearance unique among mobile devices. Ergonomic rounded edges make ZenPad comfortable to hold and carry, and its polished metallic frame adds a bold visual accent.
ZenPad is the world's first tablet to feature an innovative interchangeable cover design that lets users easily customize their tablet with functional back covers. These can provide extra features and additional color options, while perfectly matching ZenPad’s looks. Zen Clutch is a sophisticated carrying and protection solution for ZenPad; Zen Case lets users outfit ZenPad in their choice of five sleek or vivid colors and features a fine leather texture; and Audio Cover brings immersive 5.1-channel surround sound to a tablet for the first time. Power Case extends ZenPad’s battery life, giving users up to 16 hours of usage to easily get them through their day or even the longest international flights.
ASUS ZenPad features the exclusive ASUS VisualMaster suite of visual enhancement technologies — including ASUS Tru2Life and ASUS TruVivid — that brings advanced image-processing found on high-end TVs to a tablet for the first time and provides comprehensive visual optimization. ASUS Tru2Life analyzes each pixel in an image before it is displayed and performs an intelligent contrast and sharpness adjustments to boost dynamic range, revealing even the smallest details to ensure an incredibly realistic viewing experience. ASUS TruVivid improves screen clarity, brightness, and touch responsiveness by transforming the conventional six-layer display design into a two-layer, fully-laminated design that eliminates the air gap, resulting in higher optical transparency for brilliant color and improved brightness.
ZenPad is the world's first tablet to integrate DTS-HD Premium Sound, delivering the ultimate sound experience. DTS-HD Premium Sound transforms stereo audio into virtual surround sound so users can enjoy incredible, theater-quality audio right on ZenPad.
ZenPad is available with LTE/3G connectivity and phone functionality or as a Wi-Fi-only model.

Asus 'Mascot' ZENNY
The Phones at display

I checked out all the Phones but I was taken with the clarity and artistry of the Asus ZenFone Selfie Phone. The colours available are ideally feminine with Pink and Tiffany Blue and ofcourse Black.


Anusha Dandekar’s Perfect Selfie Makeup Secrets.
I wouldn’t get into much of her exclusive liking about makeup. But here is how she advocates keeping it natural and stylish.

1) MAC Studio Fix or Powder Foundation to even out skin.

2) MAC Soft and Gentle or any other Highlighter/Bronzer to accent the Cheekbones.

3) Oodles of Voluminous Mascara Coats.

4) Lip gloss [Dab, rest on the eye lids]

And voila! You are fixed for some breathtaking Selfies.
Anusha also approached the Selfie Angles, counseling some of the Divas take unbelievable Selfies with the Asus Zenfone Selfie.
Here are pictures of some of the fun group selfie activities:

Panaroma Selfie Time

The winning was accomplished with Zenny Pendrives and Lolly flashs. The event was sprightly illuminated with Asus Zenfones, Selfies and Angles.

ZENNY Pendrives

You can check more about Asus: https://www.asus.com/in/
ASUS Global Press Room: http://press.asus.com
ASUS Global Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/asus
ASUS Global Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/asus

You can preorder you ASUS Phones on Flipkart!
*These picture are provided by Asus, few of them are clicked by me for no watermarks. =)

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Cruelty Free Makeup in India: Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner Review

I took longer than usual to sense the pros and cons of the Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner.
Not that late, when it is time to repurchase this with a surprising verdict. I am mentioning how I prefer using the curved eyeliner and a reason my hopes are dashed. I would not wantonly call this a copy of NYX Cosmetics The Curve Liner, though I wanted it at some point.
The curve control kept me consumed all these months, I kept ciphering the ways. But once the control puzzle was resolved, I learnt a wondrous trick.

Cruelty Free Makeup in India: Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner Review

Uses: 20 times or more.
The tip is moderately flexible and pointy.
Cruelty-Free Status: Cruelty-Free
Price: 725 INR

Cruelty Free Makeup in India: Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner Review

I refrain Tight lining with Gel eyeliner because most of the time, it glides down on my contacts blurring my vision. And I found my perfect tight liner. I tight line: Upwards to inwards. I prefer drawing a thin line close to my lash line. The gaps are filled without any residue to glide down with moisture.

The Curve is assistance if you cannot apply eyeliner or you cannot draw straight/fine lines. You have to hold this as you intent to draw your lines by resting the tip on your eyelids horizontally. And redo till you get your desired stroke/line. This is what precisely the straight tip and the curve combination deliver. [I figured!]
I have tried the same method with Maybelline pen eyeliner, but that is effortful since either your fingers or pen intermediates the vision.


Cruelty Free Makeup in India: Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner Review
Tightline & Lined with Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner

Feline flicks and Winged eyeliner application becomes plain sailing. I rest this in an angle I want to wing out and then slowly draw inwards. The degree of the angle depends on the drama I fancy.
Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner stays on until you remove it off with a cleanser or makeup remover. It strikingly does stay unaffected through rain, humidity and sweat, unless you rub it off.


Cruelty Free Makeup in India: Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner Review
Eyeliner following my natural lid curve & Winged with Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner

What displeases me is the quantity and the finish. I have loved Maybelline Gel eyeliner and I do not want to repurchase it. I miss the gel eyeliner finish with this. The texture is liquiform and wets the skin surface on application, almost like a liquid eyeliner. It turns out glossier and the glossiness builds with layering. I prefer matte or gel finishes in the morning and daylight.
0.4 ml for 725 INR, Definitely EXPENSIVE!

To conclude, I use Lotus Colorkick Curved Liquid Eye Liner for Tight lining; No eyeliner look and when I fancy effortless even winged eyeliner. And to top off my brainwork, I would repurchase this but not before I check out Kryolan Gel Eyeliners.
[The only decent Cruelty-free and probably Vegan eyeliner in India, I must mention]


Saturday, August 08, 2015

Airtel 4G Sim just a Tweet away: Get your AIRTEL 4G sim by tweeting #GetAirtel4G

In the world of Technology and a social lifestyle that requires virtual connections, one cannot be slow paced. Because Life is fast paced like an action movie, a slow connection equals being dead.
I multitask a lot more than required being a lifestyle and beauty blogger. But I dislike wasting time for waiting to load the website and videos. My Wi-Fi connection is a waste which never connects when I have to work. But when I am out, my 3G connection doesn’t work well with my patience.
Imagine you are Youtube-ing something and the amount of time, it streams losing patience and interest at once.
Frustrating isn’t it?


I relieved a sigh when I read Airtel is launching 4G in India covering 296 towns. I am a user myself, so I am waiting to switch to 4G as soon as I can.


So How do you get your own AIRTEL 4G Connection?
So if you already own a 4G handset, here is greatest news of all. Airtel now offers a unique 4G SIM delivery service. All you have to do is: Tweet #GetAirtel4G and you get your 4G SIM delivered to your home free of cost. Isn’t this praiseworthy of Airtel for being so consumer-friendly?

How and where do you Tweet?
Tweet #GetAirtel4G to @AirtelIndia.
Then @AirtelIndia would reply you a link directing to you to fill in your address or personal details with regards of 4G SIM delivery.
That’s all you have to do to get your Airtel 4G SIM. So if you already have a 4G handset, go ahead to get your 4G SIM delivered at your doorsteps.

Yesterday I insisted one of my friends to switch to Airtel 4G and asked him to follow the steps I mentioned above. And to our surprise his Airtel 4G SIM arrived at his doorsteps in less than 4 hours!
AirtelIndia’s 4G SIM delivery seems just like their 4G service: speedy and rapid.
Go Tweet and Get your rapid Airtel 4G SIM in a jiffy.

Saturday, August 01, 2015

Garnier White Complete Speed White Fairness Facewash and Multi Action Fairness Cream Review: #7DayGarnierChallenge


Product is sent by PR.

My ties with Garnier White Complete Facewash were incessant until my mother switched her Hair colour brand. These tubes would always come handy while traveling or while I would run out of my cleanser, always free with some or the other product.
I have used both the Face wash and Cream in the past. But Garnier claims White Complete Speed White to be Our Best Ever Formula (sic). I am also listing out how this formula is different from the previous ones I have used in the past.

Usage: 7 Days (6 nights)


Garnier White Complete Speed White Fairness Facewash (sigh).
The consistency is creamier than before and fragrance is refreshing and a zing of citrus (quite strong). Indeed a Squeaky clean skin feeling post the usage without stretchy feel.
The major difference I would say would be the consistency and fragrance. Though it instantly brightens the skin, but the brightness is dismally impermanent.


Garnier White Complete Speed White Multi Action Fairness Cream.
There is a mammoth dissemblance in the New Formula and Old. The old formula left an oily residue, fence-sit to absorb (at all) and left a white cast. And the old formula would cause redness on my cheeks if used during day. So I astutely used it only at night, I followed the same with the new formula as well. I used it as my night cream for 6 nights after cleansing/toning.
The texture is improved and has shifted gears from Greasy to Featherweight. I wouldn’t be surprised if it would be foamy and effervescent: it is that light. The new formula absorbs instantly though the white cast is inescapable. The fragrance matches the face wash, Citrusy but bitterer. (I wonder why)
Also the fragrance lingers for quite some time. And the skin does appear bright noticeably but nothing dramatic. This makes a light hydrating moisturizer for Combination skin. Even though this contain high amount of Stearic Acid, I had no acne issue because of Garnier White Complete Cream since it contains Benzyl Salicylate.


The Fairness Counter claim.
It would be imbecilic of me if I tell you my skin is fairer than before But more imbecilic of you than me If you would actually believe it.
The verity is that this would only even out your skin tone and get rid of acne scars (fading). With regular use this may get rid of your tan and restore YOUR Natural Fairness (skin tone). And the Brightness would last as long as you use this duo.


Cruelty Free Status: Non Cruelty Free.
Price for Garnier White Complete Speed White Fairness Facewash: 145 INR for 100grams
Price for Garnier White Complete Speed White Multi Action Fairness Cream: 160 INR for 40grams

I wish this Range included Night Repair Creme/ Cream and Serum that would work best for oily skin.
You have to try it to see if this New Formula suits your needs. (Even skin tone and Rapid acceleration of fading scars)
Claim your Sample of the new improved Garnier White Complete Multi Action Fairness Cream HERE
After you Claim your Sample, You need to Comment with your experience below.
You can independently share your product experience on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram ( check my sidebar for my respective handles) by Tagging Makeup Discourse & Garnier India with the hashtag #7DayGarnierChallenge.
One of you stands a chance to win a Garnier Gift Hamper (Hair and Skin). The Lucky commenter will be chosen by Garnier India.

Goodluck! =)

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:  ♥ ♥ ♥