Beauty Archives - Page 8 of 10

Things You’ll Find in My Makeup Bag this month – November 2015

I have missed doing these posts for a while now and thought I must share with you all, the goodies that go into my make-up bag. So here’s a sneak peak into what all is part of my daily make-up regime this month. You can keep watching this space for updates next month, and you’ll know how things change from one month to the next!

Face Wipes – To wipe or clean makeup, or any unforeseen messes made that need to be fixed.
Sunscreen – To apply if it’s really sunny out there, for protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Mascara – I tend to touch up my mascara sometimes as it helps to make the eyes look bigger and brighter.
Prep + Prime Powder – To blot away shine from face sometime post midday.
Powder Brush – A brush to apply the Pressed Powder evenly and quickly.
Lip Colour – My current lip colour is …… , it’s a matte finish lipstick that gives deep, rich pigmentation and great lasting power.
Lip Balm – To provide moisturisation to the lips, when they get dry.
Hair Brush – To fix the fly-aways and get my hair looking tame, smooth and shiny again.
Blush – I reapply blush at midday again sometimes, to bring colour and brightness back into face and avoid ending up with tired looking skin.
Blush Brush – This is one of my favourite make-up tools. It helps to apply blush in a way that brings a healthy flush to the face and blends it well with the base makeup.

Come back next month to get insight into my december Make-up Bag! Subscribe to the blog or follow us on facebook to catch all the action in time.

5 Hairstyles for Wavy Hair

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Wavy hair looks suits women of all ages and face shapes. Not only does it have a texture of its own, the curls add body and volume to the hair. Besides, many hairstyles look good only on wavy hair. Learn how to do your own hair like a professional with these hairstyling ideas at www.rewardme.in. If you do not have naturally wavy hair and wish to create waves in your tresses, there is a simple and natural method to get this look.

Begin by simply wetting your hair slightly and brushing it thoroughly. Divide the hair into two sections. Tightly twist each of the section and coil them into side buns securing each with a hair grip. Tie a turban with a soft towel or old tee shirt, and let the hair dry naturally over night. This is how you curl hair without a curling iron. The next morning when you open the buns, you will get amazing beachy waves.

Some of the hairstyles that you may try with this kind of hair are as follows:

Messy bun

The correct texture required for a messy bun is achieved when you have curly hair. You do not have to put in a lot of efforts to get the perfect look. The messy bun is a great party hair do. It has been a favorite among women of all ages since many years.

Fishtail braid

The look of a fishtail braid is enhanced when you have frizzy or wavy hair. The imperfection of some strands left loose make it look ultra-chic. You may make a puff from the front to get a youthful and romantic look. It is one of the trendiest hairstyles to opt for.

Ponytail

A high ponytail is the most sophisticated look to adopt with wavy hair. The magnificent flow of the waves adds an extra charm. You may try this hairstyle for a formal event or for a dinner party. Apart from this, you may also make a side ponytail and let the soft curls gently flow along the shoulder.

Braided bun

The combination of braids and a bun looks good if you have curly hair. It is a stylish look to flaunt. It is also comfortable especially for women who love updos. The braids cover the bun like a crown. The braids from both the sides finally end into a low bun. As an alternative, you may also make the braids appear as a headband.

Loose waves

Leaving your hair loose is the most stunning wavy hairstyle. Simply run your fingers gently through your waved tresses and let them fall in soft curls. You may also work a shine serum through it for added bounce and shine. You can accessorize with a hairband or tuck a flower on your nape for a fun casual look.

Do try this natural method of hair curling without heat. This method of waving your hair is safe and leaves your hair undamaged; unlike styling products or heat tools whose long term use may damage your hair.

TLC For Happy Feet- How to care for your feet?

We put our feet through drudgery every single day, but how often do we give them the loving care they need to recuperate from all that hard work? To my mind, the feet are the most important and most neglected parts of our body, but looking after them can make all the difference in the world. You do not have to shell out big bucks every month on fancy pedicures and foot massage treatments – small and simple steps can make a major difference.

Wash Them

This may sound obvious, but how many of you take the time to scrub your feet and in between your toes every single day? This is a very critical part of your foot hygiene routine and can simply not be skipped. Make sure to do this every single time your have a bath and dry your feet thoroughly afterward to prevent any infections and smells. I also prefer to wash my feet right before I go to sleep because it makes me feel really fresh – try it some time!

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Even if your feet do not feel rough and dry, never skimp on giving them some TLC with a deep nourishing moisturizer. Do this every time you hop out of the shower and before you go to bed. During the winter months, moisturize several times a day. You do not need to invest in an expensive foot cream – any normal lotion will work just fine.

Never Put Your Feet Through Pain

Your tootsies are not supposed to hurt – not matter how beautiful those shoes are! Tight shoes will do a lot of damage to your feet in the long run by causing distortion, bunions and painful growths. When it comes to your feet, throw the “no pain, no gain” rule out of the window once and for all.

Let Your Hooves Breathe

You cannot do much about the fact that you have to wear shoes all day and every day, but when you get home, kick off your shoes and let your feet breath for a few hours. Remove your shoes, socks and stockings, wash your feet and then walk around barefoot or in open-toe slippers for a few hours. Your feet will thank you later.

Trim Your Nails Often

Not only do long and unshaped toe nails look really, really ugly – they can also be extremely painful if you don’t nip them in the bud before they develop into ingrown nails. Make it a point to cut your toenails every fortnight and shape them in the way that you look. Of course, be careful not to cut them too short either because this might lead to bleeding or pain.

3 Types of Perfect Bridal Bun Hairstyles

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A bun is probably the simplest and most elegant hairstyle to wear on your wedding day. Not only does a bun keep your hair tidy, it also gives you ample opportunity to flaunt a low cut back, chandelier earrings or beautiful necklace to full effect.

There are several kinds of buns you can experiment with before deciding which one to sport on your big day. Here are a few of the trendiest buns of the season and how to style them:

1.Traditional bun

An Indian bride is an epitome of the deep-rooted traditions and culture of her country. A traditional bun is the all time favorite of brides all over. Comb your hair well and secure it in a ponytail. Divide it into two sections and wind them over each other to create a bun. Secure it well with bobby pins and spritz well with a medium hold hairspray. You can opt to add hair bun accessories such as a hairnet, hair jewelry, flowers or a coiled floral garland to finish the look.

2. Messy loose bun

A loose and messy bun will give you a chic laid-back look. The messy version is a good hair bun for short hair. Pull your hair into a loose ponytail. Divide the hair into two sections and back-comb them to get volume and texture. Now start wrapping the hair in opposite directions and secure the sections about an inch from the bottom of the strands. The loose frayed ends around will add to the messy effect. You can also pull a few strands to frame your face.

3. Spanish bun

If you have long and thick hair, then undoubtedly a Spanish bun should be your choice. This hairdo looks best on round faces. It is a sophisticated and quirky looking hair bun style. To get a Spanish bun, make a deep side parting and make a ponytail by looping a rubber band three times around your hair. However, on the last loop do not pull the hair all the way through. Let a small part remain looped at your nape and wrap the remaining end around the rubber band concealing it completely. Secure it with a bobby pin. You can add flowers at the nape for an authentic Spanish look.

These buns are some of the most chic hair buns for Indian weddings. You may opt for any of these stylish buns for your wedding or reception. You can always dress the bun up or down by adding accessories or removing them.

Learn more DIY Hairstyles at www.rewardme.in

5 Types of Bridal Braids

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Braids are the perfect way to complement Indian attire for bridal functions. Not only are they beautiful and sophisticated, they are also low maintenance and allow you to enjoy your big day hands free without trying to manage your tresses all the time.

Some of the braided bridal hairstyles are:

1. Side braid

The one-sided look is stunningly attained with the side braids. If your dress is worked on a single side or along the neck, then this hairstyle will ensure that it is easily flaunted. To get a side braid, you first need to make a side parting. Take a section of your hair and begin by making a regular braid. Extend it till the end of the ear. After this, take the hair from the opposite side and pull them horizontally in the front. Continue doing this till all the hair is braided. Finally, tie the hair with a rubber band from the bottom and add flowers at different levels.

2. Crown braid

A crown braid looks like a braided crown set on your head; very lady-like and old world. There are many different ways to create one; among the easiest is the two-braid method. Divide your hair into two sections along a really deep side parting. Start braiding hair from close to your forehead (above your left ear) from the smaller parting. Keep including one-inch sections of hair from the larger parting as you move towards your right ear. Continue till you reach below where you started. Complete the braid and secure with a rubber band. Pull this last braided section over your head once more and tuck the end into the braid, secure it with a bobby pin. Spritz some holding spray and your ‘do is ready. You can also tuck in small flower buds or seed pearls along the braid for a fresh, princess-like look

3. Braided bun

The braided bun is the most fuss-free hairstyle to carry on your wedding day. Amongst the various versions of the braided bun, this is perhaps the simplest. Divide your hair into two sections. Create 4-6 tiny plaits on each side of the partition. Take the rest of your hair and make a bun using hair grips. Finally, take the hair braids and fix them into the bun with bobby pins.

4. Fishtail braid

A fishtail braid complements Indian attire perfectly. Begin a fishtail braid by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Divide it in two sections; keep taking smaller sections from each of these two strands and cross them over the opposite section until you reach the bottom. Secure with a clear rubber band and your neat and elegant fishtail braid is ready.

5. Waterfall braid

This style of braiding allows you to leave your hair loose while keeping flyaway strands of hair off your face. It is a perfect look, simple to create and easy to maintain. To begin with, start making a normal braid with three strands from your hairline just above your ear. Begin adding strands as you encircle your head. Keep braiding until you reach near the opposite end. Finish the braid and pin it up diagonally or horizontally.

These styles add a twist to traditional Indian braid hairstyles creating a touch of the ethereal and unusual to your hairdo.

For more DIY hairstyles & tutorials visit www.rewardme.in

Clarins 50+ SPF Sunscreen For Face Wrinkle Control Cream Review

We all think that SPF is something we should only wear in summers and hence I chose to write about this product only when we are heading towards winter season. In all honesty, SPF is not for summers alone, but is a necessity all year round, be it summer or winter or any other season. The bottom line is, whenever you are out in sun, or exposed to even indoor lights of a certain kind, you can get tanned – I know it’s scary, but that’s the truth.

For many years now, I have been wearing SPF most of the time when I am out and it has made a huge improvement to how my skin looks and feels. SPF helps in preventing aging of the skin caused by UVA and UVB rays, besides prevention of tan as well. I will go into more details about SPF another day – watch out for that girls, I promise you it will be a good read and very informative.

Clarins 50+ SPF Sunscreen For Face Wrinkle Control Cream is an anti-aging sunscreen that protects your skin while defending it against wrinkles and age spots. “Wrinkle control cream” here doesn’t mean it’s only for people above a certain age but simply that it has antii-aging properties which will prevent your skin from aging because of exposure to sunrays.

This product has Clarins’ patented Phyto-Sunactyl 2 Multi-Cellular protection complex – which in layman’s terms is designed to strengthen and reinforce the skin and protect against collagen damage.

The above photos capture the UVA logo is in a circle which means that at least a 1/3 of the UV protection is against UVA.

The formula of this product is a richer SPF Cream but with more of a liquidy consistency. It absorbs into the skin in about 10 minutes or less. I always prefer to wear my sunscreen about 10-20 minutes before I head out for it to be most effective. It can be a bit oily for some but you can easily control that translucent powder and even wear makeup on top if you like. For me, some sunscreens can cause breakouts as I have a slightly sensitive skin, but that has never happened with Clarins.

When it comes to sunscreen products, I am very selective and have done lots of research on the same. I have tested more than 4 Sunscreen products this summer itself, and for me Clarins is always the product I return to. It has worked for me every time and protected me when in the sun. Simply put, I love Clarins’ sun products.

This Clarins Sun product is also available in SPF15 and SPF30, with a wider selection for the face and body. They also have a range for kids which I am yet to try.

Final Verdict:

Pros:
Great sun protection.
Value for money (Good size for a decent price).
Lasts a long time.

Cons:
Maybe a tad bit too oily

Star Rating: 4

Price in UK: £19.50

3 Simple Side-Swept Hairstyles for Brides

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Your wedding attire is ready. You have bought your jewelry, chosen accessories, picked up the right make-up, and now all that remains is deciding on a beautiful hairstyle that will complete your look on your big day.

A side hairstyle is a great option and can be tweaked to complement a vintage, traditional or modern look depending on your choice of outfit. Such a style can suit women with long and medium length hair. A side-swept hairstyle ensures the front and back of your dress remain in full view. It also frames your face without overwhelming it.

Some of the best sideways hairstyles trending as bridal coiffures these days are as follows:

1. Bun

A messy side bun looks pretty when you paired with a vintage gown. You also get a chance to flaunt your dazzling chandelier earrings. A side bun ensures that your hair stays off your nape and doesn’t get entangled with jewelry or the embellishments on your dress.

To make a messy side bun, gather all your hair on one side and secure it in a ponytail. Divide your hair into sections and comb them in a reverse direction. This is known as back-combing, and it adds volume as well as increases hold. Pin up each section upwards to complete the bun. If you sport a fringe or bangs you can twist them once and pin them for a classy 60s look, or leave them be for a fun flirty look to complement the bun.

2. Braids

Braids give a sophisticated yet unfussy look to a bridal get up. Braids well with western bridal wear such as gowns and dresses as well as with traditional Indian outfits such as sarees and lehengas. You could opt for loose or taut braids, and achieve the desired length of fullness by using extensions.

For a perfect side braid, part your hair sideways. Start with a regular French or fishtail braid from the broader side of your parting. After braiding it up to the ear-level start bringing over sections of hair from the farthest side to where you are braiding your hair. Secure the ends with a transparent rubber band. Accessorize the braids with flowers or seed pearl accents to complete your look.

3. Loose waves

Long hair left loose with a little bit of texture in the form of waves is a great way to get a dreamy princess-like look. Gowns, floor length dresses and even Indian wear such as backless dresses are perfectly complimented by this kind of hairstyle.

For perfect loose waves, work a mild hold gel through your hair. Curl two-inch sections around your curling iron and hold for 20 seconds. Continue until all your hair is curled, mist with a holding product. At the very end arrange all the hair over one shoulder and mist with a holding product.

These side-swept hairstyles are stylish, easy to achieve, and low maintenance. Try one of these and enjoy your big day feeling and looking on top of the world.

For more quick and easy hairstyles visit www.rewardme.in

Clarins Hydraquench Cream SPF 15, Normal to Dry Skin Review

The season is changing and I have changed my face cream to accommodate for the shift in weather. I had been planning to buy Clarins Hydraquench for a long time but it doesn’t sit easy on pocket. But this time I gave in to the temptation and well, it was worth the wait!

Clarins is one of my go-to brands for skin care products and you might find me talking about them on and off, quite freqeuntly. The cream I am using is for Normal to Dry Skin with SPF 15, and you would know from my previous posts that I do prefer products to have SPF because I tan and burn too easily.

On the box it says this lightweight cream offers effective UV protection and was specifically formulated to provide a softer, more radiant finish for those with normal to dry skin. Katafray bark extract and hyaluronic acid help maintain an optimal level of hydration while Sorbier bud extract helps restore a fresher looking appearance.

In my opinion, it’s a light weight cream which is very good for the “in-between” autumn/fall weather; we will have to see what I get for winters soon. The absorption of the cream is also very good and it doesn’t sit heavy on your face like some of the cheaper creams out there. The problem with those is that you can’t wear them underneath makeup whereas you can wear this cream under other products without feeling any heaviness.

I wasn’t expecting to see any noticeable difference in my skin… But my skin does actually feel significantly softer. I noticed it more so after using it for few days (I never post a review on a product unless I have tested that product on myself for a good amount of time)s. Also, the cream has a mild fragrance which is the case with most of Clarins’ products. This could be a problem if you don’t like your products to have a distinctive smell, but I liked it so it works for me.

One thing I feel I need to highlight is that he cream pot is thick glass, so it’s really heavy, and totally impractical for travelling. But it does look very chic on the dressing table.

The hydraquench range has many more products to try for different skin types from creams to masks and gels. I am definitely going try some more very soon.
Have you tried any of the products in HydraQuench Range? Whats your take on the products, specially the cream? Let me know in the comments!

Pros:
Moisturizing
Good Nourishing capacity.
Sun protection

Cons:
Pricey
Heavy Box

Star Rating : 3.5
Price in UK : £35 for 50 ml
Price in India : Rs. 3318 for 50 ml

5 Ways To Get Rid Of Blackheads

I am sure that all of you will agree with me when I say that blackheads are the bane of every girl’s existence and unfortunately, getting rid of them requires regular treatment and a lot of patience. After years of dealing with these pesky things (mainly on my nose), I think it is safe to say that I have tried and tested all of the techniques out there. If you want to get rid of your own blackheads, these five methods are great! Try them one at a time or all together.

Clay Masks

I find clay masks to be very effective in keeping my skin clear and getting rid of blackheads. Most major brands will have some offering in the clay mask category and you can even make your own with one tablespoon of betonite clay and water. My favourite product is the Seaweed Ionic Clay Mask by The Body Shop. So good!

Homemade Pore Strips

More often than not, the pore strips sold at supermarkets are terrible and really do not do anything to solve your blackhead situation. One of my friends introduced me to a homemade version last year and I have not looked back since! All you need a clean strip of cotton, one teaspoon of milk and one tablespoon of organic honey. Mix the honey and milk together (warm the mixture in the microwave for ten seconds to make it easier). Apply a thin layer to your affected area and then pat the cotton strip on top of it. Let it dry for 10 minutes and then peel the strip off. Voila!

Use Toner

Many ladies tend to skip using a toner but I find that it is very effective in keeping your pores tight and clean. Use your toner about four times a week after you wash your face and before you moisturize. The results are mind blowing!

Break A Sweat

Clogged pores cause blackheads so breaking a sweat can actually help to clean the pores and minimize the appearance of blackheads. You could do this by squeezing some exercise into your routine or just treating yourself to a spa once in a while. Plus, it will make your skin glow like a diamond! Win-win.

Orange Peel

Citrus fruits are known for their skin benefits and the dried peel of an orange is a great way to rid yourself of blackheads. Use the dried peel to scrub the affected area everyday and you will begin to notice the effect in no time!

Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Cottonseed Review

I have been using the same brand and face wash for many years and thought – Well, maybe, it’s time for a change, and hence I bought Clarins’ Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Cottonseed this time around. As said on the box this product is for Normal to Combination skin and I do suffer from T-zone issues in dry or hot weather. When it gets cold, I am planning to switch to something that is more suited for dry skin.

On the package it says that the product will leave the skin perfectly clean, thanks to the refreshing foam that rinses off with cool water. As gentle as a cleansing milk and as effective as a soap, this mild foaming cleaner preserves the skin’s PH balance and thus natural radiance.

Now coming to my experience with the facewash:

Being a cream cleanser that lathers into a thick foam, it rinses away clean, refreshing the skin. The scent is mildly herbaceous, which I’m not bothered by. In the morning, I use this alone to clean off the night’s oil/sweat/product residue. However, I don’t use this product at night as I have different regime for night time. This cleaner leaves the face squeaky clean and there’s no trace of the product left on the face after rinsing, to the point that I have started skipping skin toner 😉 and have become one of those baddies who doesn’t follow the CTM routine to the T.

I think this product will not suit anyone with dry skin and I would probably try a different cleanser for winters; maybe its sister cleanser Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Shea Butter – instead. This cleanser will probably work well even for oily skin types, at least in the harsh winters when we all need intense moisturization

Do keep in mind that though it might be pricey, it will last you a long time; far more than other high street ones, for just a little bit of this cleanser goes a long way in doing the job. In fact, on my first day, I even wasted some of the cleanser when by default I squeezed out a coin size blob, as I would with other facewashes. Now, I only use a pea-sized amount of this cleaner on my face daily.

Pros:
-Deep Cleansing
-No residue
-Last you a long time

Cons:
-Can be drying in winters
-Might be expensive

Price in India: Rs. 1400
Prince in UK: £19

If you have used this or are planning to use it, or even any other cleanser for that matter, do let me know – I am always happy to hear and recommend wherever I can.

How To Make Your Pout Look Plumper (Without Fillers!)

Like most women, I absolutely crave lips that are plump and full; however, I am not the biggest fan of lip fillers and the like (no matter how great Kylie Jenner’s smackers may look!) There are a lot of clever ways to make your lips look plumper than they are without harming your body. All you need is your regular lip makeup and a couple of extra minutes. Read on to find out more!

An easy way to achieve a naturally amped up effect is to opt for a shiny finish over a matte one. The light will bounce off the shiny surface and create an illusion of plumper lips. If you can’t do without your matte lipstick, finish off your lip routine with a swipe of clear lip gloss, which has the same effect. I like to apply clear gloss to only the centre of my pout for a bold effect. When it comes to your lips, drama is a good thing.

Another trick that I like to use is to line my lips using a nude lip liner. This is one of the easiest and oldest tricks in the book to enlarge your pout. I love the natural finish that nude lip liner provides, enabling you to sport this look on a daily basis.

If you’re feeling bold, you can use a coloured liner to overdraw your smackers. Find a liner that matches your lipstick (or just use the liner to fill them in later) and draw your lips slightly outside of their natural line, while following their shape. Fill them in completely, using translucent powder to set the products in place and you are good to go. Take it a step further by lining the outside of your overdrawn lips with concealer and watch your pout take the spotlight!

There are a lot of ways that you can play with your Cupid’s Bow (the centre of your top lip) to achieve a superstar pout, too. If you feel like going au naturel, simply dab a tiny bit of highlighter onto your Cupid’s Bow for some drama, and finish off the look with your trusty lip balm or clear gloss. For the days that you want to sport a coloured lip, define your Cupid’s Bow by drawing an X at the centre of your upper lip with liner. Apply your lipstick as normal and say hello to luscious lips for the day!

Finally, remember that darker shades will always make your lips look smaller than they are so opt for light or vibrant hues to make your job easier.

Kisses!

Face of the Day (FOTD)- Smokey Eyes & Pink Lips

Hi All,

As promised I am decoding my look of the day for last week’s London Fashion eek.
I was wearing a monochrome outfit, and here is the link to the outfit of the day post if you are interested. I wanted to keep the makeup subdued to complement the outfit, but still have a radiant glow . Hence, I concentrated mainly on the eyes and skin coverage. For the eyes, I used a bluish silver eye shadow from my Naked pallete and paired it with a pink lipstick!

Hope you like the look! Don’t forget to leave your comments below!Products used for this look :

1. Mac Strobe Cream
2. Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15
3. Mac Prep+Prime Compressed Powder
4. Mac Groundwork Paint Pot
5. Loreal Super Liner Gel Inteza in Black
6. Naked Urban Decay Eyeshadow Pallete (Creep & Gunmetal)
7. Mac All that Glitters Eyeshadow
8. Rimmel Scandaleyes Flex Mascara
9. Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Sultry
10. Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in Soft Plum

How to create this look:
– I started by priming my eyes with Mac Groundwork Paint Pot and used Mac strobe cream across my face as primer.
– Next I applied a wash of Naked’s Urban Decay Gunmetal eye shadow all over my lids. This colour is just so rich and beautiful, it doesn’t need a lot of work or too many more accents to make it work.
– Using a fluffy eye shadow brush, I blended out this with the Creep eye shadow to create an even gradient in the crease and outer corner.
– To highlight the inner corner and brow-bone, I used MAC All that Glitters eye shadow.
– I tight-lined my eyes with the Loreal Super Liner Gel Inteza in Black and applied the same thickly along the upper lash line.
– I finished up the eyes with mascara, of course.
– On the face I applied Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation in SPF 15 as it would also provide me with sun protection while out & about in the daytime. I blended the shine with Mac Prep+Prime Compressed Powder.
– On the cheeks I applied Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in soft plum.
– And finally, I finished the look with Revlon Colourburst Matte Balm in Sultry Sulfurese.

Comment below if you want me to post any specific look!

How To Sweat Proof Your Makeup

When the heat is beating down outside, maintaining a perfectly made up face can be really hard. Runny mascara and a patchy face is simply not a good look for anyone. Lucky for you, I have picked up many tips and tricks in the time that I have spent in India, many of which I regularly use to help me overcome the Mumbai heat. The next time it is scorching hot outside, try out one of these handy tips to save your makeup!

01. Always opt for long-lasting formulas that will not budge from your face. Because these products tend to be thicker than your average, mix them with a dollop of your facial moisturizer for easy application.

02. To prevent your eye shadow from creasing and looking tacky, make sure that you apply primer to your lids. It makes a world of difference!

03. Never leave the house without blotting papers to prevent that nasty shine that tends to develop in our oily spots after a couple of hours. Either that, or keep a nifty blotting powder on standby!

04. If you are going to wear mascara, it should not be anything by waterproof! It might be harder to remove than a normal formulation, but it is definitely worth the effort.

05. Take a chance and skip lipstick altogether. Instead, enhance your pout by treating it to some lip balm and a brush of highlighter in the center of your top lip.

06. Choose a cream blush over a powder blush for easy blending and a more natural look.

07. I would recommend using a tinted moisturizer instead of your regular foundation. If you simply cannot live without the latter, ensure that it is an oil-free one so that it does not clog your pores.

08. I am one of those girls who cannot live without a good eyeliner but when the temperature shoots up, you will not find me using anything but a reliable, long-lasting gel product. Do not even try to experiment with anything else.

09. When it comes to lipstick, matte ones are the way to go because they have an immense staying power and will definitely not melt off your face.

10. Before you start applying your makeup, set it in place with a makeup spray. You will instantly see the difference.

My Latest Eye Makeup Routine

You may have already seen the picture of my current eye makeup routine on my Instagram or Facebook page. As promised, here is the story post decoding the process and how I go about it on an everyday basis. I have also listed all the products in the picture towards the end of the post.

These days I am experimenting with a lot with my eye makeup, especially eye shadows – will definitely post some more tips once I have tried and tested them fully.

Most of the days in I am in rush to get ready and be off to work. Hence, this routine is for all those ladies who like me, have a little less time on hand and still want to get awesome, lasting eye makeup. After all, we all know that it’s the eyes that make you stand out in the crowd

I generally tend to start my routine by applying an eye primer on the lids to help get them ready for the eye shadow. Primer, as you may or may not know, makes your eye shadow stay for longer. The M.A.C. pot I use is one my favourites as it also brings out the colour of the shadow and makes it pop a lot more.

Next step obviously is to use a good quality eye shadow for application across the eye contours. If you are a novice and can’t do the two shades look, try to use a lighter, nudish shade on the eye during the day rather than a darker one. Most of the times, lighter shades are much more easy and forgiving than the highly pigmented ones.

Then comes the eyeliner, followed by the mascara. Make sure you use a dark eyeliner in shades like midnight blue or black for office. You can use either a thin line or a thick one depending on how comfortable you are with wearing makeup. And please don’t forget mascara on both the lower and the top eyelashes since the dual stroke widens our eyes and makes them stand out!

Here is the list of products I am using these days for my daily Eye Makeup Routine.

1. MAC Paint Pot Groundwork
2. Loreal Super Liner Eye Liner Gel Intenza in Black
3. Urban Decay Naked Eye Shadow Pallete
4. Rimmel London SacandalEyes Mascara

Any questions? Simply comment below and I will make sure I respond to them personally as soon as possible.

L’Oreal Professionel Mythic Rich Oil Review

I haven’t posted in a while, but here I am back, reviewing a product I absolutely love. It is L’Oreal Professionel Mythic Oil which in my experience, works like a charm! Before I get into details, I have to say that hair serum is an important part of my hair care routine. My long tresses sometimes need an extra dose of nourishment to stay in place and so I have tried serums by many brands. But L’Oreal’s Mythic Oil has become my favourite for it delivers what it promises and is worth every penny spent.

I’ve finished two whole bottles already, and the third is half-way through! Clearly, I’m a fan.

According to the product info, Mythic Oil is a combination of Rice Bran oil and Argan oil, both of which are wonderful for enhancing hair quality. It can be used as construction product and for finishing as well. I usually use it either as a post-wash serum or before any sort of heat styling.

Now, getting to the product itself. L’Oreal’s Mythic Oil comes in plastic packaging with a pump dispenser for convenience. It has a clear sheen and soft, earthy fragrance that is disappears as the oil gets absorbed. On application post a hair wash, I use the serum to lightly coat the length of my hair, especially the tips. I avoid applying it on my scalp though. On application, it gets absorbed within minutes, leaving the hair smooth and silky when dry. The serum helps keeping frizz in check and if I use before hairstyling, my hair doesn’t seem too stiff after the heat treatment.

What I like best about this serum is its light, airy texture which does not weigh down my hair at all. Even though I get the most satisfying results when I apply it on my semi-wet locks, it works well even otherwise.

I have to mention though, that if you’re buying this product expecting it to moisturize your dry hair, that’s probably not going to happen. L’Oreal’s Mythic Oil basically reduces frizz, prevents fly-aways, tames the hair and makes it soft and shiny. But it doesn’t improve hair quality in general. Since I never bought it for that purpose, I’m happy with what it does do – control and condition my (sometimes) frizzy hair.

Star Rating: 4

Price in India: Rs 890

Price in UK: £15.99

How to Rock the Boho Chic Look

The boho chic look is the most comforting fashion choice for the wild and free-spirited souls. That’s because it is all about individuality, a self-determined sense of style and no concern of the fashion police.

While to some people, boho stylistics is simply second nature. If you are like me, however, you have often admired women in fun, quirky outfits from a distance and wished you could pull that ensemble off. Well, not to worry. Even if going bohemian isn’t your natural style, you could want to and should experiment with it, especially if the occasion demands so.

Here are some ways in which you can nail the boho look perfectly.

The Clothes:

If you are a classicist otherwise, when trying this look, you can go beyond your comfort zone. Beautiful prints and gingham fabrics in warm colours (which is the typical boho palette) shall look great. If your outfit is a two-piece ensemble, let one item be print galore with the other being one-tonal and plain.
Layering is a very important part of the boho regime, so whip out those scarves, stoles, summer jackets and skirt-legging-combos. However, do not go over-board here either. A couple of layers provide much dimension to the outfit while still being elegant.
Do not be under the misconception that boho means loose, ill-fitted clothing. The bohemian philosophy is one of comfort and thus there are few figure-hugging tight clothes worn with it. But that does not mean you consciously go for clothing that is oversized – simply find something comfy and fuss-free.
When attempting boho, feel free to go in for alternate clothing of the kind that would otherwise be tricky to pull off. Funky pyjamas, jodhpurs, asymmetrical tops and dresses, funny text-tees, and similar unconventional pieces will all complement this look.

The Footwear

Again, there are no rules here, other than that your footwear should be comfortable.
Flat sandals and chappals are often staples in boho outfits. Go in for those in interesting colors or ones that have unique detailing. Remember, bohemian does not mean shabby – wearing your bathroom slippers, though perhaps most acceptable with this look, is not a requisite.
Loafers and sneakers with quirky patterns will also look good.
If it is winter season, boots with leggings over, are also so boho chic, especially if the leggings are very colourful.

The Accessories

Nothing says boho like a bunch of accessories dazzling up an outfit in full measure. Actually, more than a bunch – this look can never have one too many.
Chunky, beady neckpieces of different length, in varied colours look wonderful.
Earrings with unusual motifs also look great. Many boho divas sport ethnic jewellery designs with western wear creating lovely visual contrasts.
Bangles and wrist look super-trendy with this look as well.
Other extras like hair accessories, bandanas, brooches, badges, caps, funky sunglasses and anything else you can think of can be easily fit into such an ensemble.
The only thing to avoid is wearing so many accessories that they come in the way of your movement and comfort.

Hair and Makeup

The hair with this look could be styled just about anyway.
As long as there is volume and texture, anything works – loose waves and curls, messy up-dos, hasty ponies, even braids. If you are going for something simpler like straight hair let down, adding dimension using hair accessories would be recommended.
With makeup, try and be slightly extremist – “all or nothing” is the perfect approach.
If you’re going all out, you could try popping lip colours or dramatic, colourful eye-makeup. Make sure the effect is striking yet classy; avoid highlighting both the eyes and lips in an over-the-top fashion – let one feature stand out.
If you prefer to go the barely-there way with makeup, slap on some tinted lip-balm and thin liner on the upper lash; you’re aiming for a more natural look, but you shouldn’t look washed out.

Follow these tips for a first-time boho outing and once you’re confident with all the experimentation, you can try out more bold outfits.

Chic & Easy Hair Trends for Hot Summer Nights

Summer is the best possible time to stay out long and enjoy beautiful nights. Days are scorching hot, but the nights get us some relief. When preparing for a joyful night out with friends or significant other, you should know that your hair might get in your way and ruin your mood – especially if it sticks to your neck making you feel twice as hot. Luckily, there are cute and easy hairstyles which will make you look good and feel even better wearing them.
Stylish bob

Stylish, sexy, versatile, and classy – only bob hair can make you look like that. Long faces look fuller and wider with chin-length bobs, round faces look slimmer with slightly longer bob or an inverted bob, while angular faces should opt for the one parted on the side.

Choose the style you like best and wear it with pride – you will be attractive and gorgeous. Just make sure you wear it straight (or curly), you don’t want to look messy but classy.
Intricate braids

Crown of braids will make you look like a princess and take the hair off your back – literally. You only need simple braiding skills, some hairspray and bobby pins, and a bit of patience. Make two low pigtails and secure them with elastics, then pull up one and secure it an inch back from your hairline and repeat it on the other one as well. Spray it with hairspray to make sure you don’t get strands of hair in your eyes.

Gorgeous ponytails

If you don’t have the patience or the time to braid your hair and pin it up, you can always tie a ponytail and keep the hair up without too much effort. If you have bangs, you can always pin them to the side or make them look bigger with some hairspray. This will also add some style to this, usually unpolished look. You can also curl the ends of the ponytail and make it more classy.

Fierce pixie

Pixie cut is back and girls all over the world choose to wear it not just because it looks amazing, but because it is handy and practical at the same time. You don’t need a lot of time to get ready and wash your hair, and even less time to blow-dry it. You are ready for hot summer night in no time; just make sure your hair is on the spot and not flying all over the place. Use hair gels or finishing sprays – Theorie hair has amazing hair spray without mineral or paraffin oil for those who have keratin treated hair.

No matter if your hair is coloured, short, long, keratin-treated, curly, or straight; finding the perfect hairstyle is always a big deal. Hair trends change, but if you find a look you like in particular, there is nothing to stop you from wearing it for as long as you’d like.

Going for a Haircut? Know the Top 5 Styles Trending this Season

I have long, wavy locks which flow down past the middle of my back and every now and then feel the urge to change my hairstyle. Thankfully for me, my hair growth is not too slow so I’m not in fear of being stuck with a not-so-nice haircut for a long while.

But I understand that for girls whose hair takes a long while to grow feel very nervous about trying out new styles. Some wild, boho belles will ask, “What is life without a little risk? Go ahead, try that funky style that looked so great on XYZ model in some magazine”. Well, kudos on that attitude but maybe that’s not the best beauty mantra where hair is involved, at least for us lesser adventurous ones.

But if you are going in for a haircut and looking to get a different look this time, make sure you know which styles are trending this season. You can then choose one which suits your face shape, hair-quality and personality – you’ll then be perfectly turned out with your newly trimmed locks and extremely happy with the way they look.

These are the hairstyles that are super fashionable this season:

Baby Bob with Waves

If 2014 was all about the Lob (aka long bob), this year has given way to the wavy Baby Bob. The Baby Bob is of length that’s somewhere between the chin and shoulders. Adding a dash of volume and textures, a wavy fall complements such hair length, creating an effortlessly chic look. Go in for a wavy Baby Bob if you want to try something radical. And the best part is, you get the added benefit of summer-friendly locks!

Very Long with Extra Layers

So, you don’t want to chop off your precious locks that took ages to grow? Well, you could keep the length and still get a haircut that is contemporary and uber-stylish. Wait till your hair is very long – almost down to the waist – and then ask your hairstylist to add in as many layers as possible. This will add extra bounce and vibrancy to your glossy mane without much product usage and styling (if you have decent hair quality, that is).

70’s Bangs or a Side Sweep

Since 2015 has brought back many 70’s inspired fashion trends, hair couture has also gone slightly retro. A frontal fringe that is slightly shorter in the front with longer strands tapering down at the edges has lately been very popular amongst celebrities. You could get this look too, especially if you have naturally straight hair. But if that is not the case, and your locks have the tendency to “turn” as stylists put it, the side swept fringe would be an equally stunning alternative.

Curly Feather Cut

This is for the girls want their hair to be wild and forever messy (in the quirky, out-of-bed-look way, of course). You could get a feather cut, which essentially means your hair will have voluminous, wispy ends that curl out rather than in. Feather cuts on wavy and curly hair have been quite the rage for a while now, and can instantly add to your fabulousness with just a few snips.

Au Naturel

Many stylists maintain that this is the season when simply embracing your natural hair texture will be quite the fashion statement. So instead of attempting to alter the general fall and character of your hair growth, you could get a haircut that enhances its natural qualities instead. This shall be suitable for those looking to grow their tresses out – take advantage of this trend and go in for a minimalist trim.

So based on what your fashion mantra is – experimentation, simple and comfortable styling or free-spirited novelty – find the perfect haircut to match it, and voila! Your look for this season is ready!