Skin Care Archives - Page 2 of 4

Top 10 Tips – For Your Eyes

Love looking your best, but have no time to keep up with new, fab beauty mantras? Here’s the Top 10 tips that’ll help you look your best and take care of your eyes!

For Your Eyes

Use a high-quality eye cream every night to lighten dark circles and prevent wrinkles.
Keep a gel-based eye-mask handy for those days when your eyes are puffy. Chill and apply for 10-15 minutes for instant improvement.
Apply castor oil or olive oil on your eyelids before sleeping for longer, thicker eyelashes.
Go in for eye makeup comprising of more natural ingredients – eyes are very sensitive, so best not lavish them with too many chemicals.
Keep your eyes well-lubricated using mild eye drops on a daily basis.
Do not rub your eyes too often – those delicate beauties are not meant for rough handling.
Always wear your sunglasses when out in the sun.
When applying sunscreen, make sure to cover the under-eye region as well.
Be gentle and careful when curling your eyelashes; do not tug or pull at the curler, your lashes can do without the brutal treatment.
Be most thorough while removing eye-makeup. Always use either a specialised product or a solution of water and olive oil for the purpose – only rinsing with water leaves residue behind.

Laser Hair Removal – All You Need to Know

Hair growth in unwanted places has been a major concern for most people. In the earlier days people used to use extreme measures like plucking each hair, using a clam and so on. But thanks to modern technology hair removal is no longer so painful. There are several ways to get rid of unwanted hair like waxing, bleaching, shaving and so one. But these methods do not provide a solution for permanent hair removal or reduction. That’s where laser is a boon. Laser hair removal is a treatment which promises permanent hair reduction or removal and is less painful than any other hair removal method.
How does it work?

The hair growth has three phases, the anagen phase, catagen phase and the telogen phase. The laser hair removal works laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicle in the anagen phase.

The laser light targets the melanin in your body and disables follicle. The laser hair machine aims a beam of light at the hair follicle. Melanin in the skin absorbs the light and disables the hair follicle. The laser hair treatment can be used anywhere on your body like the face, leg, arm and so on.

Types of Lasers used for Hair Removal

Intense Pulsed Light/ BBL Laser: it is suitable to treat the fine hair.

YAG Laser: It is suitable for people with dark skin or tanned skin.

Ruby Laser: It is suitable for people with light to medium toned skin.

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a treatment which requires a skilled specialist and has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Before choosing a salon or doctor for the treatment make sure to check the credentials for the same
If you are using an at home IPL machine make sure you do a patch test and ask your doctor if you can use the machine if you are on medication.
Let your hair grow for at least 6 weeks. Try not to pluck, wax or epilate your hair as this will remove the hair root and make laser ineffective.
Avoid sun exposure during, before and after getting the laser treatment. Make sure you apply SPF before stepping out in the sun.
Make sure you do a patch test for the laser treatment as well.
Consult your doctor before opting for laser treatment and avoid taking any photosensitive drugs before the treatment
Apply aloe vera gel or to the treated area to reduce redness or swelling and heal the skin.
Avoid scratching the treated area and using cosmetics on it.
Make sure you protect your eyes as there are chances of eye injuries during laser treatment.

Cost

The cost of getting a laser treatment is one of the major factors people consider when opting for the treatment. If you are investing in something you expect to see results. The cost of a laser hair removal in london or anywhere for that matter of fact is based on several factors. But it the cost of getting a treatment for a small area starts from £ 50 and for large areas like the hands, back or legs starts from £150. The cost of the treatment is based on the type of laser you are opting for, the number of sessions required, the salon or doctor credentials and so on.

Pros

No more waxing, shaving, bleaching or anything, as laser hair treatment gets rid of unwanted hair. Since the hair follicles are disabled laser gets rid of hair permanently most of the time.
Laser Treatment is more long lasting than any other hair removal technique.
Home IPL machines are user friendly and cheaper to use when compared to going to a salon for laser treatment.
Laser treatment can be used for getting rid of hair from all parts of the body.
Laser is less painful when compared to threading, epilating or waxing.
In case you experience hair re-growth, the growth will be less dense and thick when compared to before getting the treatment.
If you are getting laser treatment at a solon which has skilled professionals then the treatment is usually accurate, faster, and safer.
A skilled professional will advice the best treatment based on your skin type. This makes the laser hair removal treatment more effective and there are lower chances of you getting an infection.
Smooth hair free skin. You don’t have to worry about going to the parlor or using any DIY techniques for hair removal.

Cons

The cost of getting a laser hair removal treatment is usually high. The cost of getting a treatment for a small area starts from £ 50 and for large areas like the hands, back or legs starts from £150. The cost differs from place to place and is based on the type of treatment you are looking for.
The effectiveness of laser depends on your skin type and hair type. If you have dense hair then there are chances of experiencing some re-growth.
One of the side effects which can be experience is skin burn as laser removes hair by burning the hair.
There are also chances of hypopigmentation, which means that there are chances of skin darkening or hyperpigmentation which means that there are chances of lightening of skin.
Multiple sessions: For a long term effect one has to go for multiple sessions and complete the course of the treatment. The duration of the session is based on the area being covered.
Laser hair removal treatment is not suitable for all people. It does not work for people with blonde, red or gray hair.
Laser hair removal treatment is also not effective for people with dark skin.
Laser hair treatment does not guarantee permanent hair removal and cannot prevent growth of new hair follicles.
You might experience some stinging, redness or itching.

Here is a video from Pulse Light Clinic, giving you some more details on the Laser Hair Removal.

To get the best results, consult an expert go for a treatment which is most suitable for your skin type.

Skinade Collagen Drink 30 Day Course

I have to share something great with you. I never really had much faith in anti-ageing skin products. I mean, of course there are some luxury brands that do have potent skin-renewing products to offer. But I really didn’t believe that any there is much that can be done to halt the skin’s ageing process.
That’s when I came across Skinade which is essentially a collagen drink – yeah you heard me right! – a drink that claims to boost the natural production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in one’s body. Skin begins to show signs of ageing when these very compounds are no longer produced in ample amounts as when one was young. Now, I’m no expert, but the fact that Skinade has a fine balance of active ingredients that can naturally aid your body’s ability to renew itself, seems like a sure-shot fix for fine-lines, dull skin, dark patches and so on.

Given that Skinade is a beverage and not a cosmetic product or pill, I was willing to try it out without having gone through any reviews. I got the 30 day course which has 30 bottles of 150 ml each – one to be consumed on each day. And believe it or not, after just two days of having Skinade, I could already see the difference! My skin looked brighter and more smooth but I first thought that I was probably just imagining it. But after about a week of regular consumption, the results were undeniable for even other people noticed and complimented me about how healthy and radiant my skin looked.
The drink itself isn’t exactly delicious, but it has a natural peach and mangosteen flavour, so I don’t mind the taste really. I was advised to take it with breakfast because that is when absorption of ingredients is highest. The best part is, it’s very convenient to have these little bottles of anti-ageing elixir because with the 30 day course, I even got a travel pouch. So even when I’m running late and take my breakfast to go, my daily dose can be easily carried alongside.
I would recommend that women above 30 consume Skinade every 1 to 2 months on a cyclical basis to maintain good skin quality. And those over 40 could even take it regularly for that’s when skin retardation really begins to set in. Fortunately, the product is well-priced with the 30 day course costing £99.00. You can buy it online here, and if you want your skin to be plump, glowing and porcelain smooth, you should give it a try too!

Home IPL Machines vs. Laser Treatment – All You Need to Know

Hair growth in unwanted places has been a problem faced by both men and women. To address the same issue there are many safe and effective methods for hair removal including shaving, waxing, epilating, laser, electrolysis and so on. Each method of hair removal has its own pros and cons. For example, electrolysis is a permanent hair removal method but is painful and time consuming. Professional laser treatments and at home IPL machines is an alternative treatment which helps in hair reduction.

So today I am going to be focusing on 2 modern hair removal methods i.e. Professional laser treatments vs. At home IPL machines.

At Home IPL Machines

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. In the past few years it has become one of the most popular techniques for removing body hair. One of the major reasons it is so widely accepted is that it is faster and more affordable than other methods. IPL hair removal treatment uses light which destroys the hair follicle after which the melanin is broken down. This helps achieve permanent hair reduction, i.e. one can expect some amount of re-growth. Due to the popularity of the treatment even home use systems are available, which are a lot smaller and are designed specifically for hair removal. They are widely available in shops at a number of large pharmacies, as well as online.

PROS

Affordable: Buying the at home IPL machine is way cheaper than getting a laser treatment and is usually a onetime investment. However, depending on the type of machine you may have to invest in replacement of certain parts like bulbs.
Convenient: You can go at your own pace, whenever you want and wherever you want.
Flexibility: As soon as your hair starts growing back, you can treat them straight away instead of having to wait for your appointment at a salon. Many devices also offer flexibility in terms of different features.
Privacy: If you are someone who is conscious about your body then using a at home IPL machine is perfect for you.
You regulate the pain: if your device has flexibility in terms of how strong do you want the light to be then you can adjust it as per the results you want. The weaker settings will be less effective at removing hair, but it’s ideal for people have a low pain threshold. You can switch the light settings to a stronger setting at any point if you feel ready.

CONS

Cost of replacement parts: Some at home IPL machines come with bulbs which need to be replaced frequently. These replacements parts are expensive.
Skin Type – Most suitable for people with light skin and dark hair. IPL treatment takes a longer on dark skin to work as the melanin in the skin absorbs some of the light and making it less effective.
Usage: Some body parts that you may want to treat may be difficult to reach. Thus you may need someone else to help even with a home IPL machine.
To achieve the desired result one needs to do a number of regular sessions.
Time consuming: Procedure needs to be repeated as hair growth is uneven and one may be slower when performing the treatment on you.
Lack of professional assistance: A professional or expert at IPL will be able to give better results, give advice and take care of any problems which may occur.
Side effects like itching, swelling or burns may occur. Hence it is always advisable to go for a patch test before.

Salon Laser

Laser treatment for hair removal is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. What happens in a laser treatment? Highly concentrated light is beamed into hair follicles to achieve hair reduction. Pigment in the hair follicles absorbs the light which destroys the hair. Lasers can be used for removing unwanted hair from the face, arm, leg, underarm, back, bikini line, and other parts.

PROS

Larger areas can be covered quickly and getting professional laser is an efficient method for hair reduction.
It is generally safer than at home IPL machines since the treatment is carried out by qualified professional
Suitable for all skin types
For permanent hair removal electrolysis is a better option, but professional laser treatment can achieve permanent hair reduction.
When compared to waxing or any other hair removal technique, professional laser requires less number of treatments.

CONS

Professional laser is more expensive than at home IPL machine and one needs to be ready for a big financial commitment.
Since hair growth it uneven, one need to go for multiple sittings and one needs to make prior appointments for the same.
Usually laser hurts somewhere between an elastic sting and a moderate burn, but it really depends on ones pain threshold. But since it is higher intensity, it can be more painful.
Does not work on blonde or grey hair as they laser cannot sense pigment in hair follicle.
Side effects like itching, swelling, discoloration or burns may occur. Hence it is always advisable to go for a patch test before.

Both salon laser hair removal and at home IPL machines can achieve hair reduction and each has its own merits and demerits. It is ultimately your choice by weighing the pros and cons of both the options. Salon treatment would be safer, quicker and long lasting, whereas, at home treatments would be cheaper, convenient and provide more flexibility.

Summer Skincare Tips

Warm weather is upon us and I couldn’t be more excited! I’m dreaming about beaches, mojitos, summertime sunsets and stylish swimwear…but I’m also thinking about skincare and hydration, and you should be too! The strong rays of the sun can really suck the life out of your skin, and I believe that it’s always best to prevent the damage rather than fix it afterwards. Ladies, here are my top ten skincare and haircare tips for the summertime:

You have heard it before and I will say it again: there is no replacement for drinking water. Yes, it is absolutely essential all year round, but it is especially important in the summer, when the heat sucks the hydration out of your skin. Remember, eight glasses a day keeps the skin doctor away.
Like water, sunscreen should be part of your skincare routine throughout the year, but when the sun is out, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Wear it before you apply the rest of your makeup and save yourself some nasty burn (or worse!)
For extra skin protection, switch to makeup that contains SPF. Most products will mention their SPF content, if any, on the label, but ask your sales representative for help if you’re not sure!
Treat your skin to some cooling facemasks. Ingredients like cucumber and yogurt are very soothing on heated skin, while lemon and lime are great de-tanning agents.
Never leave your home without moisturising your face and body, to replenish the hydration that they’ve lost to the warm air. If you are prone to oily skin, use a light, oil-free moisturiser to prevent unwanted shininess.
As far as possible, use oil-free formulations when it comes to makeup. These products are less likely to clog your pores when you sweat.
When it comes to your lips, use a lip balm that contains SPF. You can wear it on its own or apply it below lipstick or lip gloss for protection.
Invest in a hydrating mist for your skin, or make your own by simply putting some water and a drop of essential oil into a spray bottle. Spritz this onto your face every few hours to revitalize your skin and prevent it from drying out.
We’ve spoken about your skin, but what about your tresses? Again, use products that have SPF wherever possible, and never step outside without applying a protective leave-in conditioner to guard your hair.
Always carry a hat to cover your hair from the harmful rays of the sun. If they’re not your cup of tea, use a cute headscarf instead!

Top 5 Home Remedies to Get Clear, Glowing Skin

Pollution, stress and irregular sleep often cause us to misplace our natural glow, and result in dull, tired skin. Wash it all away with some home remedies that will result in skin that speaks for itself.

Tomato

Containing high levels of lycopene, and anti-free radicals, tomatoes can work wonders on all skin types.

Rubbing tomato slices against skin can combat spotting, and result in clear, unblemished skin.
Mash half a tomato and apply the pulp to your face to defeat acne with vitamin A and C.

Lemon Juice

Full of enzymes and citric acid, lemon finds its way into several home remedies for clear skin. While using lemon one must wash it off before exposing skin to sunlight.

Lemon juice along with glycerin is a very effective face pack for glowing skin.
A scrub made of lemon juice, sugar and water can help remove dead cells to reveal clear skin.

Castor Oil

A sure way to remedy most skin problems, castor oil is commonly found in Indian households. A powerhouse of benefits, incorporate castor oil into your skincare routine for glowing skin.

Steam your skin and follow it up by massaging some castor oil on your face. It is bound to completely hydrate skin cells, and detoxify the clogged pores by seeping deep inside. Add a few drops of lavender oil to amplify the results.
Treat dry patches on your skin by using equal parts of coconut oil and castor oil

Multani Mitti (Fuller’s earth)

Containing several minerals, Multani mitti is a type of clay that is often used in herbal remedies in India.

Mixture of Multani mitti, lemon juice and coconut oil is a great home remedy for glowing skin.
To combat dry skin, combine Multani mitti with whole milk and apply as a face mask.

Coffee Grounds

All the more reason to continue drinking your favorite cuppa, coffee grounds are an essential ingredient in home remedies for glowing skin. Just brew and drink some, and use the leftover grounds for treating common skin ailments.

Say goodbye to the cellulite and patches by using a paste of coffee grounds and olive oil which exfoliate the skin.
Now look fresh despite everything – use coffee to treat puffy eyes. Whether you have got enough sleep or not, always look your best by using caffeine to lift those eyes.

So the next time you cook, try these tips for glowing skin that you have always wished for!

Sponsored Post: Find more effective and easy skin care tips at www.rewardme.in

Beaute Mediterranea High Tech Hyaluronic Complex Concentrate Review

When it comes to anti-ageing skincare products, Hyaluronic Acid is the buzz word these days and this one is the key ingredient in the latest offering by Beaute Mediterranea, the renowned Spanish beauty brand. The product called Beaute Mediterranea High Tech Hyaluronic Complex Concentrate comes up as a must-have for your make-up bag if you want something that moisturizes your skin effectively in addition to ironing out wrinkles gently.
The easy-absorb formula comes in white color and has an amazing aroma similar to that of parma violet flower. All you need to do is to apply it on the face and neck with fingertips and massage with gentle movements and it gets right in the skin. The formula is fast absorbing yet non-greasy which makes it suitable for all skin types.

Beaute Mediterranea High Tech Hyaluronic Complex Concentrate comes in an easy-to-use packaging, with a sleek glass bottle and a pipette dispenser, which makes it easy to handle and convenient to use. A part of the innovative skin care product range by this trusted brand, the serum concentrate can not only be used as an anti-ageing skincare cosmetic but also like a regular moisturizer. Another factor that makes it a value-for-money proposition is the fact that a little goes a long way with this one.

The serum is made of high concentrations of Hyaluronic Acid, an ingredient with proven benefits for skin ageing. The product is known for diminishing the ageing process at seven levels, namely

Improves skin elasticity
Enhances smoothness of the skin
Makes the skin softer
Penetrates skin deep and moisturizes the skin effectively
Reduces wrinkles from within, both in number as well as volume
Alleviates water loss from the skin as it has the ability to plump the skin full with natural moisture
Has a skin lifting effect

Additionally, the concentrate has a deep impact on the overall appearance of the skin, which is visible within a very short span of time (some say from the first day itself).Continual use is sure to give you healthy and glowing skin for a lasting period of time. Start using the Beaute Mediterranea High Tech Hyaluronic Complex Concentrate today and get soft, glowing and beautiful within a few days. It makes the skin look radiant and flawless to an extent that you can even contemplate skipping on your weekend foundation now!

You can buy the Beaute Mediterranea High Tech Hyaluronic Complex Concentrate from Facethefuture.co.uk/shop
Price – £32 / 30 ml

System Professional’s Solar Range in Time for Summer

Every summer has a story to tell. Love to spend a day in the sun, but scared to sacrifice the conditioning of your hair? Fret not, thanks to the Solar Range of System Professional.

Summer is synonymous to beaches, sand, crystal clear sea and carefree days tanning in a bikini. But it is often accompanied by damaged and lifeless hair if one is careless about moisturizing your hair. The sun, harmful UV rays, sea water, chlorine and the air conditioning can suck the life out of your tresses. It can make your hair frizzy, dry, dull and brittle. But why does this happen?

The hair has pigments and proteins in the inner cortex and a protective layer called the cuticle. The cuticle is responsible for the look and feel of your hair. A smooth cuticle makes the hair look shiny and soft. But an open cuticle which gets exposed to harmful UV rays can penetrate the inner cortex which dehydrates and dulls your hair. If you have colored, dyed or bleached hair then your cuticle is already compromised thus causing a greater damage by dehydrating your hair further. Thus your strands require extra love and conditioning during the summer. To manage sun damaged hair the beauty industry recommends a range of products and home remedies to suit different hair types to retain moisture and keep your strands smooth shiny and protected from the sun.

System Professional’s has come out with a innovative SOLAR range which caters to all the hair needs during summer by protecting your sun kissed tresses while you relax and enjoy your summer without worrying about the consequences of sun damage. The System Professional’s Solar Range is formulated with a special Helioguard complex which nourishes and protects dry and damaged hair. This high performance range of products offers great defense against summer elements like chlorine, UV rays, and air conditioning. It contains UV filters which safeguard your locks from the harsh rays of the sun. The SOLAR Range also includes essential Avocado Oil which nourishes and hydrates damaged hair fiber. The Solar Range also limits dryness with the help of cationic polymers which repairs the damaged tresses. Whether you are enjoying an afternoon tanning on the beach or taking a dip in the sea, the System Professional’s SOLAR range provides a immense protection against the damage of chlorine and UV rays, by preventing damage of the hair fiber lipids and protecting against undesired bleaching of your strands. Thus making weak, dull and lifeless locks damaged by harmful UV radiation, sand, sweat and sea salt a history and flaunting glossy, soft and healthy hair all summer long a thing of the present.

The SOLAR range, like the entire System Professional range boasts the benefit of exceptional EnergyCode technology which is designed to offer complete care to fulfill individual needs of all hair types.

Hair type differs from person to person just like your personality. No two people will have the exact same hair type, however closely related. Thus System Professionals website offers a Mapping tool which has a unique diagnosis process that shows an ultra customized product prescription from the widespread System Professional Range. Know if the SOLAR Range is a part of your EnergyCode by visting www.systemprofessional.com.

Like many other women out there I have been looking for a treatment to restore by dry and damaged hair. It looks like I have finally found my calling. Thus, today I will be reviewing three products from the System Professional’s SOLAR range.

Solaris Sun Oil (SOL4)

The Solaris Sun Oil is versatile oil with keratin protection. It softens your tresses and reduces flyaways while nourishing and protecting your hair against the damages of sea salt, sun and chlorine. The Solaris Sun Oil can be used before, after or during sunbathing. The product contains UV filters which are combined with a generous blend of essential oils which deeply conditions and protects your hair by transforming damaged hair to luscious locks all day long.

How to Use:

Apply 4 to 5 pumps of oil all through your tresses during or before sun exposure to protect them from sun damage.
After Sun: Apply on wet hair before styling your hair for protection and softness. You can also apply on dry hair to reduce frizz and flyaways.
With conditioner: Mix 4-5 pumps of Solaris Sun Oil with regular hair conditioner or a sun conditioner for softer hair.

The Final Verdict:

I love the smell of the product, it reminds me of summer.
It’s really good oil for hair which is damaged by the sun or chlorine water.
I am someone who love to swim in the summer and this is my go to product for when my hairs are dry.

Price: £32.65 / €40.55 for 100ml OR £16.10 / €20.50 for 30ml

Solaris Solar Cream (SOL5)

The Solaris Solar Cream is a deeply nourishing cream which treats frizzy and dehydrated hair. The cream protects your tresses from the harmful UV radiation and counteracts the damage from chlorine or salt water. The cream tames unruly, frizzy and coarse hair.

How to Use:

Apply a generous amount of the Solaris Solar cream onto hair during or before sunbathing.
Re-apply after exposure to chlorine water or swimming.
The Solaris Solar Cream can also be used as a leave-in styling conditioning cream.

The Final Verdict:

I love styling my hair like a million of you out there. The heat from all the styling tools makes my hair very rough and dull. The torture that my hair goes through with all the heated treatments like curling, ironing, blow-drying or even swimming makes my hair very coarse – thus they need their TLC once in a while.

The Solaris Solar Cream is a good option to nourish dry and damaged hair. I totally recommend everyone to give it a try.
The only thing is you do need to apply this a decent quatity for it to work properly.

Price: £20.95/€24.50 for 125ml

Solaris Helio Spray (SOL6)

The Solaris Helio Spray is a non-sticky and non greasy modern damage repair spray. The Solaris Helio Spray is a water-resistant product which provides UV protection for all hair types. The product also helps prevent bleaching, protein damage, loss of moisture and color fade.

How to Use:

Add the product to an emulsion or hair mask treatment; it transforms the treatment by offering additional strength, resilience against hair breakage and reconstruction.

The Final Verdict:

A great product which protects your tresses from sun damage and helps repair the damage.

Price: £20.95/€24.50 for 125ml

I have been using these products for past week and I feel that the entire System Professionals Solar Range products are top class professional level quality products. It’s a complete hair care solution which protects your hair from and sun damage and a definite essential for the summers.

Just like sun screen is essential for our skin for everyday use, similarly, it is important to protect and nourish your hair during the summers. Since the harsh sum, sea water and chlorine takes its toll on the hair it is essential to nourish your hair as our heads face the sun more directly than our face.

*The products in this post were sent to me for review, but all comments and review of the product is my own.

101 Beauty and Makeup Tips – The Busy Bee’s Guide

Love looking your best, but have no time to keep up with new, fab beauty mantras? Here’s a sneak preview of the Busy Bee’s guide I will be launching on the blog soon– 101 tips that’ll help you look your best! Sign-up now to receive the copy in your inbox soon!

For Your Skin – Always wear sunscreen when stepping out during the day, regardless of whether it’s sunny or not.

For Your Eyes – Use a high-quality eye-cream every night to prevent/lighten dark circles and/or wrinkles.

For Your Lips – Chapped lips are such a turn-off; be kiss-ready with well-moisturized lips at all times.

For Your Hair – Always shampoo and condition your hair for maintaining optimal quality and texture. If worried about slathering on too many chemicals, go in for herbal products.

For Your Nails – Do not bite your nails; apart from having unsightly fingertips, you also become more prone to skin infections

For Your Outfit – Always dress for the occasion – there is nothing as off-putting as an inappropriately dressed person.

For Your Accessories – Never go completely bare in terms of accessories, even if you are a minimalist. Add character to your outfit by adding a unique touch with some trinket.

For Your Makeup – To ensure that your makeup stays on for long without getting patchy, always start with a good-quality primer suited to your skin quality and complexion.

For Your Body – Drink plenty of water for keeping your skin, hair and body healthy.

For A Healthy, Happy You – Wear only those clothes that make you happy and you are comfortable in. If you are conscious and/or fidgety in an outfit, it won’t look good, no matter how stylish it is.

Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion and Hand Cream

Like many women around the world, I have severely dry skin. This condition tends to become worse during the winter months, when the unconducive combination of freezing weather and indoor heating wreck havoc on my skin by sucking out the moisture from it.

Needless to say, it is extremely difficult to find products that can truly nourish my skin. Some products don’t absorb well enough, whilst others don’t moisturize well enough. Others, still, take way too long to rub into my skin, which is a major deal-breaker for me. So, you can imagine my excitement when I discovered the answer to my skincare prayers: the Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion and the Aveeno Hand Cream.

I’ll start by talking about the lotion. Formula-wise, this beauty combines the goodness of colloidal oatmeal with rich emollients – a combination that works hard to nourish, protect and prevent dry skin. Now, when I first used the product, I found it very hard to believe Aveeno’s claim that the product lasts for 24 hours. Truth be told, I was praying that it would last at least 12 hours but guess what? It actually does last for almost 24 hours! I was totally blown away by this discovery.

As if that wasn’t enough, the product feels is very light in consistency (unlike other deep moisturising creams) and absorbs into my skin super quickly, leaving it soft, supple and smooth as silk. My skin absolutely loves and agrees with this product, soaking up all the moisture that it has to offer. I can’t get enough!

Now, as with the rest of my body, my hands are extremely dry as well. In fact, I fear that my hands will be the first to show my age, because they don’t have any fat tissue in them to keep them soft. I have been on the hunt for a great hand cream for a while now. At the time, I was using four different creams from four different brands, with one on my desk, in my bag, next to my bed and on my study table at home.

When I tried the Aveeno Hand Cream, I was absolutely delighted. It does exactly what you would expect a good hand cream to, and a little bit more. The highlight is that this hand cream absorbs very quickly – I hate hand creams that feel sticky and leave behind a residue. This cream does have a fragrance, but it is very subtle and it won’t irritate you at all. Like the lotion, the hand cream lasts for a while, unless you have used a very strong soap to wash your hands.

If your skin is dry and dehydrated, I definitely recommend both of these products. Give them a whirl, and I promise that you will never look back!

Product rating: 4 Stars

Ooharr Face Mask Reviews

Today I’m reviewing a set of products that I received in post few weeks back and the net result is that the Ooharr Face Marks turned out to be quite effective in doing what they claimed and well, my skin is all the better for it.

Ooharr is actually a new brand of natural products that are not exorbitantly priced. So far, they have launched three face masks, suitable for all skin types. These come in individual sachets with bright packaging, which is actually what first caught my attention. I have used all the three variants, i.e. Dead Sea Cooler, Rosie Glow and Star Glow – so read on to find out how I feel about them.

Let’s begin with the Dead Sea Cooler. This mask is supposed to leave your skin feeling “refreshed and revitalized”. It is composed of tea tree oil, witch hazel, peppermint, argan oil, bamboo powder and almond oil. This combination exfoliates the skin and cleanses it deeply, infusing it with the right amount of moisture. It has a minty-herbal smell, gritty texture and cooling effect on application.

Upon removal of the mask, my skin felt clean, smooth and devoid of excess oil, despite being hydrated. This mask is great for those with oily to combination skin and would be ideal for a session of self-pampering after a long, tiring day.

The next mask I tried was Rosie Glow which promises a “deep cleansing” action that should have your skin looking “rejuvenated and refreshed”. It has several essential oils including rose oil, geranium oil and palmroasa oil, as well as dead sea salts, all of which are known to purify and soothe skin simultaneously. This one has a calming, floral fragrance and smooth, thick texture that clings to the skin. On washing off the mask, I felt my skin looked well-hydrated, healthy and squeaky clean –similar to when you come out of the salon after a clean up. This one is good for those days on the weekend when you want to cleanse your skin thoroughly to look fresh for the upcoming week.

Finally, we come to Star Glow which is a “skin polisher” that shalll keep your skin “radiant and refreshed”. The mask is enriched with vanilla, honey, argan oil and jojoba oil for nourishing the skin to give it a beautiful glow. It has a lovely smell that reminds me of raspberry pudding and a gritty texture which exfoliates the skin on application. After washing it off, I could literally see the difference – my pores looked minimized, my skin felt soft and supple, and my face was lowing almost as if I had makeup on! I think this mask is great as pre-party skin-brightening ritual for it really gives the complexion an even, radiant finish.

What I love about these masks is the fuss-free application and removal – just leave them on for 15-20 minutes (till they dry) and wash off with water. They smell good too, which is an added bonus. If you ask me which one my favourite is, I’ll probably say Star Glow. But I feel I’ll be using more of the Dead Sea Cooler in the upcoming summer months.

Star Rating – 3.8 Stars

Price – £1.20 per pack

*The products in this post were sent to me for review, but all comments and review of the product is my own.

Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil for Dehydrated Skin – Review

In recent months, I have found myself moving away from facial serums. In fact, I have been on the hunt for a new face oil to rejuvenate my skin, so when I laid my eyes on the Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil, I knew that I had to try it. This product is specially formulated for dehydrated skin and it is made entirely from pure plant extracts, including Rosewood, Patchouli and Blue Orchid. It also contains Hazelnut Oil, which is known to lock moisture in to your skin and prevent the formation of fine lines. What more does a woman need? I have been using this product for over a month now, and have been pleasantly surprised to see that it lives up to its claims. The first thing I have noticed about this face oil is that it really does moisturise your skin, and how!

After only a few uses, my skin felt soft, supple and super hydrated. This also resulted in a more flawless finish when I applied my makeup because my foundation sat better and for much longer on my skin. I also noticed that when my skin had drunk up all the moisture from this product, it started to look brighter, radiant and really, really healthy. This face oil is especially great for the winter, when your skin is dry, dull and in need of ‘a little more’ to revitalise it. I absolutely love that the consistency is very thin and light for an oil, so it spreads quite easily and absorbs into the skin very quickly. It leaves behind a slight glow, as opposed to a greasy, heavy or oily finish. In my books, that is a major plus point!While the product revitalises lifeless, dehydrated skin, I have also noticed that it has a subtle toning effect that minimises the appearance of pores and really tightens them up. It has a similar effect on blemishes – it sooths any raw, red inflammations and completely banishes the blemishes within a couple of days. Overall, I have seen a positive change in the appearance and texture of my skin.
So, how should you use this product for optimal results? The best time of day to apply this product is the evening, as recommended by Clarins. After you have cleansed and toned your face, apply a small amount of the oil to your face and neck, and let your skin soak up all the goodness overnight. I promise that you will feel like a brand new person in the morning!

Price: £32.00

Pros:

Moisturizing
Lasts Long
Nourishing

Cons:

You still need serum or morning face cream in winter months
Slightly on the expensive end

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water Review

Off-late, there has been much buzz in the media regarding Micellar water. I was curious as to how effective this fascinating beauty concoction is and so chose to try out Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water.

What is Micellar Water?

For those who don’t know, Micellar water is a one-step skin cleanser, after using which, you do not need to wash your face. Yes, even if you have makeup on, and I mean heavy, eye-makeup and skin products too, micellar water alone will clean the skin adequately with one application.

If you’re sceptical about how this may be possible, I’ll tell you how it works. Micellar technology relies upon uber-efficient cleansing agents which work like a magnet – when they come in contact with dirt and oil on your skin, they attract it all and sweep it away. And don’t worry, these cleansing agents are mild and gentle; they do not affect the skin negatively but simply reduce the amount of time and product(s) you require for cleansing skin of makeup.

How is it Used?

Basically, micellar water is like a replacement for the long makeup-removal routine. You don’t need to first use a remover, then wash your face and then hydrate the skin. Instead, you soak a cotton ball in the solution and swipe it across all facial contours concentrating on eyes and lips. You then follow up with your regular moisturizer/serum, without rinsing the face and voila! You’re done!

Review of Garnier Micellar Water

Now coming to Garnier’s Micellar Water, here’s an account of my experience with it. I have been using it for 2 months now. Though I bought it just out of curiosity since it was trending high in the beauty and blogging world, I’m already down to 50% of the bottle!

I mostly use it to clean heavy makeup off of my face and I have to say, it surely works. I must highlight however, that it is a cleanser and not a skin conditioner. So after application, I do follow up with my regular after-wash nourishment/night-time regime.

There are some drawbacks to Garnier Micellar Water which I can’t help but point out. It is suitable foe eye makeup removal but not enough to completely remove a very heavy one. My mascara and liner looks like they have been removed but sometimes I see blackness under my eye the following day in morning and since then I started to use an eye-makeup remover separately for complete cleansing of my makeup.

Here is an image comparing the eye makeup being removed by Garnier Micellar water and a specific Eye Makeup remover.

As you can see in these two images, Garnier’s Micellar Water has done the job to a great extent. But for the eyes, a specialized eye-makeup remover is clearly more effective.

As to the question of whether I’ll be buying it again, I’m not sure I can. As it’s a great product, especially if one is travelling or outdoors or simply lazy, it has not won me over completely.

Star Rating – 3.8

Prince in UK: £3.33

My Winter Skin Care Must Haves

It’s winter time and the festive season’s here too! You know exactly how stressed your skin is – the harsh, chilly weather and lots of product usage for all those parties – no wonder it needs some extra care. Here are some tips on what you can do to ensure your skin doesn’t suffer and remains fresh, supple and glowing.

For all those who asked my winter skin care routine. I have added a picture of all the products I have been using to me and my skin happy this winter.

‘Tis The Season To Be Jolly But Do Follow These Winter Skin Care Tips

Make Moisturizer Your Best Bud

Seriously! Your moisturizer is your best friend in these chilly times. Moisturize your face and body every day to prevent dryness and itchy/flaky skin. If you have naturally dry skin, go in for creamy body butters and oil-based face creams. Otherwise, you can stick to body milks and water/gel based products, but make sure to slather on generous amounts on application.

Forget Me Not, Says Your Sun-Block

Just because the sun isn’t shinning as brightly as you’d like, you can’t take the liberty of skipping your sunscreen when going out. The sun’s rays are still as damaging and potent, even if not as warming as usually they are. So make sure you apply skin products with SPF as a rule, be it your day cream, foundation, lip balm or anything else.

Treat Your Tresses to Nourishing Oils

Oiling your hair is a must in the winter months. Like facial skin and the body, the scalp gets dry too, which can lead to brittle, lifeless hair and flaky scalp condition too. Oil your hair before every wash and if your scalp is excessively dry, indulge in some hot oil therapy which is sure to give even better results.

Protect Your Pout

Keep a lip balm handy at all times. Make sure you have one in your handbag, one by your bedside and an emergency chapstick stashed somewhere too. Also, put on lipsticks/gloss that have a hydrating effect or apply balm before putting on matte shades. And make sure you do not lick your lips if they get dry; this will only make them drier and more chapped.

Don’t Let the Lazy Bugs Bite

It is very natural to get lazy about skin care during winters, but do not skip your nightly regime at any cost! Remove your makeup, complete the CTM routine and only then go to bed! This will ensure that all the late nights and partying don’t show on your face the next day for sure.

AA Skincare’s new Frankincense & Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask – Review

I believe in taking care of my skin in winters a lot more than summers for there is much room for its improvement then. Summers are spent in ensuring sun protection, managing oil and sweat and other such issues. During winters, however, I can focus on rejuvenation and hydration, which is great.

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you will have realized that I am a stickler for perfection when it comes to products I use. I like and hope that when I try a product, it surpasses all my expectations, and more often than not, I’m not easy to please! So I was pleasantly surprised that from the moment I opened the jar of Frankincense & Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask, I fell in love with it! And then, all through the day, the only thing I could think of was when I would open that heavenly bottle of face mask again to apply onto my face in the evening.

I cannot explain how good the product smells – like the blissful aroma of a jar full of roses. But you’re probably wondering, is it really effective on the skin as well? Read on to find out!

I have to admit before I continue though that I very rarely approve of face masks. Hence, I tend go for the ones which are less harsh and chemical-ridden, and more natural in composition. I don’t believe in treating my skin to strong, synthetic ingredients for short term goals. Therefore, since I have dry skin, I tend to use more nourishing face masks and only about once a week. Typically, I go in for a clay face mask to rejuvenate and condition it. Clay, with its firming and smoothing qualities, is perfect for dry and mature skin.

Coming back to the Frankincense & Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask, this was my experience with it: after smoothing it onto my face and neck, I left it on for five to ten minutes. I then first rinsed it off with warm water and followed by splashing my face with cold water for closing pores. And when I looked in the mirror – wow! my skin looked so fresh and clean!

I realized that I can easily create a spa experience at home with a weekly beauty-boosting facial to restore the skin, followed by this amazing Frankincense & Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask. Perfect for winter-worn complexion, this easy-to-use clay mask is made from pure essential oils. It is also naturally enriched with vitamins and minerals to draw out impurities as well as moisturise and tone the skin. Packed with loads of wonderful ingredients, it is not surprising how effective it is. For instance, it contains Palmarosa essential oil to promote healthy cell growth and repair damaged skin. Marula essential oil is also present, which has antioxidant properties and helps protect skin from environmental damage. Also in the mix are Dead Sea salts and Rose Geranium, all of which detoxify, soften and hydrate skin. So, it is not just frankincense and rose that work their magic – this mask uses many more natural ingredients to brighten the face. I really enjoyed using it!

So, here’s a quick summary of my take on this product:

Pros:

It is free from parabens and artificial fragrances.
Smells wonderful.
Constituted of numerous nourishing natural oils.
Has a cleansing and tightening effect on the skin.
Really good for oily skin and treating open pores.

Cons:

Can be drying for dry skin, so I limit the use to once a week

Cost: A 100ml pot costs just £7.94.

You can buy this online from www.aaskincare.co.uk

AA Skincare is a new natural skincare brand launched by Amphora Aromatics Ltd – one of the UK’s largest suppliers of essential oils and aromatherapy products.
Frankincense & Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask came as a sample to me from Amphora Aromatics but all reviews within the post are genuinely my own.

Top Tips on How to Follow a Diet without Cheating

A lot of us would have weight loss as a New Year Resolution and my post today is dedicated to helping those who have weight loss or diet plan in theirs.

Anyone who has ever attempted diet control will vouch for this – food can test your resolve like nothing else! It seems that the very day you decide to watch what you eat, everything seems more palatable, more fragrant, more enticing! So unfair! I have always struggled to keep my weight in check and it takes a lot of resolve and hardwork for me to stay fit, I know I will never be skinny.

And I know if you are following a diet, the challenge is even tougher and I know this because I have done this many times . You have a strict regimen to stick to as well, alongside resisting the temptation of your favourite treats. So here are some tips and tricks that will keep you on track and ensure you don’t cheat too much.

Store no snacks. Most dieters gorge on their favourite snacks in their moments of weakness. If you have nice treats close at hand when you’re craving something delicious, you are more likely to give into the impulse. So eliminate the temptation all together and store no snacks at home. If you do decide to cheat a little, store healthy alternatives like low-sugar products, low-fat ice-cream, etc.

Make a Vision Board. As silly as it may seem, having a Vision Board helps. Pen down your fitness goals and put up a chart where you will see it regularly. This way, whenever you’re feeling weak, have a look at it, remind yourself why you must be strong and keep going. A good idea would be to have a picture of your dream body on it – it will keep your motivation levels up

Incorporate a cheat meal in your diet. For any diet to be sustainable and successful, there needs to be some respite from the constant self-policing. So slate one particular meal as your “Cheat Meal” for the week. But make sure you stick to your schedule and don’t eat a cheat meal whenever you feel like. Stick to a daytime meal on a particular day – Sunday maybe – and do not binge otherwise.

Track your progress. Many dieters avoid stepping on to the weighing scale in fear of not seeing any progress and losing motivation. But it can also be very encouraging if you do see results so weigh yourself every week. Even if you don’t see significant results, use this as inspiration and discouragement to try harder.

Download an application. Technology can be your ally in staying true to your diet. Get a mobile application that tracks your food intake and calories. This will make you conscious of every morsel you consume, and help you keep track of your daily nutrition. You can even share your progress and diet with your friends, making all this fun rather than frustrating.

The bottom line is, you have to work on staying motivated more than anything else. Add more positive reiterations of the benefits you reap from watching what you eat. Do not focus of what you’re missing out on – focus on your fitness dream instead!

Five Simple Steps to Better Skin

We all want better skin, but the problem is that achieving it seems to be becoming increasingly complicated. The fact is, though, is that it really doesn’t have to be so confusing. Bettering your skin comes down to five simple steps. We all know them, but sometimes we just need reminding.

1. Drink

Drinking enough water is the first rule to having healthy skin. Not only does water help to keep you hydrated, but it’s great for your metabolism, too. Make sure that you’re not substituting your water intake for caffeinated drinks, though, as the caffeine content is dehydrating and pretty much counteracts any goodness you’re getting from the water. Herbal teas are fine, though, as they are caffeine-free.

2. Eat

Eating clean is crucial when it comes to achieving clear, healthy skin. Processed foods containing high levels of refined sugar and salt can be just as bad for your skin as forgetting to moisturise. Get rid of those nasty processed items and restock your fridge with lots of fresh fruit, veg and meat. When it comes to condiments such as mayonnaise, it’s always better to make your own so you know exactly what’s going into it. The same goes for baking.

3. Sleep

It sounds simply, but we lead such busy and stressful lives that sleep actually moves further and further down our list of priorities. Every adult needs 7-8 hours of proper, quality sleep every night. Set an alarm for half an hour before you need to be in bed, and start your bedtime routine then. Try to avoid screens for the last hour before you go to bed, and make sure you don’t eat too close to your bedtime.

4. Sweat

Sweating is not only good for your body since it usually comes hand-in-hand with a workout, but sweating is actually really good for the skin in itself. It opens the pores, drawing out and releasing all the dirt and grime in the skin, also releasing all those toxins. Just make sure you wash your face after a workout, though, as the residue will otherwise just sit on the surface of your skin and seep back in over time.

5. Work

Working out your whole body is great for your skin, but you can also work out your face itself. We often end up neglecting the hundreds of muscles in our face, which can result in headaches, poor circulation and even an increase in wrinkling. Working out the face increases the blood flow to the skin, making it appear more radiant and keeping the skin fresh and healthy. Relaxing all of those muscles will also keep you looking younger and relieving any tension you hold in the face.

5 Healthy Food Substitutions for Better Hair and Skin

One of the easiest ways to embark on your journey to healthy living is to substitute unhealthy food items for healthy options that serve the same purpose. Not only does this technique ensure long-term wellness; it also has multiple benefits for your weight, hair, skin and nails. Wedding season is right around the corner and every one of us wants our hair and skin to be looking their very best – these five food substitutions are the way to go!

Glowing skin: avocado puree instead of butter in baking

Though both these fats are quite different in nature, they have pretty much the same consistency and work the same way when it comes to baking. Plus, the subtle taste of the avocado works really well in chocolate bakes like brownies and cakes! Avocado is loaded with antioxidants that help in repairing damaged skin and protecting it from the harmful rays of the sun. Lots of antioxidants also create a gorgeous glow, unlike anything that a bronzer can give you!

Healthy hair: cacao nibs instead of chocolate chips

Cacao nibs are loaded with protein, vitamins, minerals and all that good stuff! Needless to say, they have multiple benefits for your health and skin, but did you know that they work wonders on your hair, too? That’s right! The most important hair benefit is that cacao increases the blood circulation in your scalp, which promotes hair growth and makes your tresses shiny and lustrous. On the flipside, it also minimizes the chances of hair fall. Win-win!

Softer skin: quinoa instead of oatmeal

Quinoa is a grain seed that is really, really good for you, which is why this super food has sprung into the limelight this year. It works as a really good substitute for oatmeal – just cook it with milk and add a dash of cinnamon. Quinoa is loaded with riboflavin, a vitamin that helps in restoring elasticity in your skin, making it soft and supple. It also prevents fine lines and wrinkles from developing prematurely.

Hair growth: chia seeds instead of cornflakes

Chia seeds are another type of super food that are loaded with protein and a host of other health benefits! Not only do they taste absolutely amazing when soaked in almond milk – they are also much healthier than your usual bowl of cornflakes, and they keep you full for longer, so your snacking tends to reduce. More importantly, chia seeds are made up of a lot of protein, which helps in restoring damaged hair, encourages hair growth and strengthens weak tresses. After all, our hair is primarily made up of protein, too.

Revitalised skin: lettuce instead of regular tortilla wraps

Apart from the huge number of calories that you are saving on, lettuce also works miracles on the skin. It can do a lot of things – fight acne, remove toxins, protect your skin from UV rays and give your skin cells the nutrition they need. Additionally, lettuce is great for revitalising damaged or tired skin because of its high vitamin A content. Give it a shot and say hello to healthier skin!