Skin Care With the Obagi360 System

The Skin Care Industry is at an all-time high, and only expected to grow in the upcoming years. This boom raises the question, “at what age should we be doing something about our skin health?” There are many different answers to that question and each are dependent on each individual consumer, however, it is probably a safe generalization to say that everyone wants a healthy, smooth, young skin appearance. With that being said, while you are young and still have a generally smooth skin complexion, our skin health isn't really a huge priority. In several reports, researchers have found that the average age of customers starting to use professional-grade skin care products is approximately 41 years of age. But skin health needs to be looked at as something more than just for mature people. It is ideal for any individual at any age, and it is also more than just looking good on the outside. Sure, it is a huge factor in deciding to begin a skin care regimen as skin appearance has both visual and social impacts as it clearly reflects the consequences of aging, but it also has many physical health benefits that are not visible on the outside. This clarification is hope that many people will start taking their skin health more seriously in their younger years, rather than begin when damage is already apparent and visible. 

Experiencing the Lightening Facial with Ocean Mist Mask at Four Fountains Spa

The Four Fountains spa outlet at Salt Lake Kolkata is one of my favorite haunts whenever I feel the need to pamper myself. The reason why I like the spa is because it's economical, their service is top class and it's not too far away from where I live. Last week I was invited by Four Fountains to experience a therapy and I was pretty unsure of what I would go for till I reached the spa. Initially I thought I would go for the Swedish massage but then decided that I had to do something about my tan and I was suggested the 1 hr Lightening Facial with Ocean Mist Mask. 

International Skin Expert Za Arrives in India

Over its 142 years, Shiseido has spread its global presence in over 89 countries pursuing its vision of making people’s lives beautiful. The international cosmetic giant marked its entry into the Indian beauty market by establishing their wholly-owned subsidiary Shiseido India Private Limited. This year marks the dawn of a new era in Beauty for India, as Shiseido presents its highly acclaimed brand loved by metropolitan women around the world for its high efficacy, sensorials and elegance ‘Za’ (pronounced zee-ei).

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream - Review

Kiehl's is a brand that I've been wanting to try for ages and when they opened their first store in Kolkata about two months back, I was a very happy woman. I picked up quite a few products and samples from the store last month and they are basically all that I've been using on my skin. Will review each of them separately but today it's the turn of the Ultra Facial Cream.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

Kiehl's describes the Ultra Facial Cream as ' 24-hour, light-textured daily hydrator leaves skin comfortable and well-balanced, particularly in harsh weather conditions. Made with Antarcticine, a Glycoprotein extracted from microorganisms sourced from sea glaciers and notable for an ability to protect skin from cold air as well as Imperata Cylindrica, a plant indigenous to the Australian desert that possesses superb water retention properties in dry conditions. Reduces moisture loss while drawing and absorbing moisture from the air'.

Key Ingredients - Water, Glycerin, Squalane (a key ingredient of a lot of Kiehl's products), Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sucrose Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol. From what I saw in google, all of these are extremely good humectants and emollients to give great hydration. 

Price - Rs 1900 for 50 ml

From the description, you can easily make out that this cream is targeted specially for those with normal-dry skin. I fall in that category and that's the reason I picked it up. This cream is one of the top ten Kiehl's products across the world and is an extremely popular one. From the tub, I also got to know that Kiehl's partnered with the team of the "Greenland First Ascent" expedition in 2005 to lend support and protection from the elements. So if it is the cream of choice for someone making an expedition to Greenland, it's gotta be good, right?

When it comes to skincare and makeup for the face, I hate anything that has fragrance. Kiehl's products are fragrance free, tested by dermatologists and extremely gentle on the skin. The packaging of the products is very simple and straightforward 'which speaks to the old apothecary concept'. In terms of skincare, they have about ten collections which includes Midnight Recovery, Blue Herbal etc and the Ultra Facial cream belongs to the Ultra Facial Collection of products.

What I love about the cream is that its extremely light and just disappears into the skin without leaving any residue behind. When we first hear of the term cream, we immediately connect it to winter and to something very rich, greasy and heavy. This product is so light that it can be used at any time of the year irrespective of whether you live in humid or dry weather conditions. All of Kiehl's products  rely on the 'less is more' theory so you need very little of the cream to work its magic. I apply it in place of my moisturizer during the day and I'm sorted for the next 12 hours till I apply my Midnight Recovery Concentrate at night, also from Kiehl's. I have not faced any breakouts or irritation on my skin after I started using the cream and I think I'm hooked!

If you are looking for a product that is light yet offers great hydration, I would definitely recommend the Ultra Facial Cream. Kiehl's is a premium brand and is therefore more expensive but again, their products do work and this is an old, tried and tested and loved formula across the world. Each Kiehl's store offers samples to try out so do take a few and check whether this product works for you. I'm sure it will and you will love it!

Have you tried any Kiehl's product? Which is your favorite?

Avon Naturals Herbal Neem and Linzhi Glowing Moisturizing Cream and Mask - Review

In January, Avon launched the Neem and Linzhi Glowing Moisturizing Cream and Face Mask, infused with neem and essential vitamins for bright and moisturized skin. Avon is a brand that I really like and their products suit my skin very well. I've been trying the new cream and mask for quite some time now and I must say that both have really impressed me. 

Here's some more information about the two products:

Naturals Herbal Cream & Mask also has Linzhi, a rare mushroom that is used as a preventive measure and to strengthen body immunity. The herbal ingredients Neem and Linzhi will leave skin looking radiant, energized and rejuvenated. The cream & mask come with three beauty benefits: 

• Makes your skin glow
• Renews your skin
• Improves skin smoothness

Avon Naturals HERBAL Glowing Moisturizing Cream

In winter, my skin tends to become really dry so I need a cream that keeps my skin hydrated for a long time but does not make it greasy and shiny. This moisturizing cream does all that! The texture of the cream is light, it smells refreshing, applies evenly, does not clog pores, gets absorbed into the skin quite fast and because one of the ingredients is neem, also prevents pimples from coming up. Usually, one would not think that a neem based cream would be suitable for dry skin, but this one is just great for me. The hydration lasts for nearly 5-6 hours and it does not irritate skin. So, a safe bet for all skin types!

Avon Naturals HERBAL Glowing Moisturizing Mask

Love this mask! It's a clay mask but the texture is not very heavy. Again, I love the light neem smell and after washing off, the skin looks really refreshed and clean. I've used it a lot during winter and it did not dry out or irritate my skin at all. So a product suitable for all skin types. I did not see my skin 'glowing' after using the mask but I like the squeaky clean feeling it gives. 

Both products are priced at Rs 249 for 50 gms and i think they are great value for money. They are not completely free of chemicals but contain products good for the skin. Try them out if you are looking out for an affordable face cream and mask.

*PR Samples

The Ultimate Secret to Happy Skin

Your smile conveys several things; it not only reflects your state of your mind but also the state of
your skin. Flaunt your happy glowing skin all day along with a simple skin care routine.

Cleanse daily
Keeping your skin spotlessly clean is essential. However, with the rising stress and pollution levels, it can be quite a task. Also with extensive cleansing, your skin is likely to lose moisture. Therefore, it is important not only to keep your skin clean but also retain its moisture. Choose a cleanser wisely that not only wipe the impurities away but also replenishes the facial skin with the required moisture and nutrients.

Moisturize regularly

Other than a smile, one of the greatest ways to wipe out the sulking expression on your face is to treat your face with a luxurious amount of moisturiser or day cream. Day creams contain light moisturizers and antioxidants which rehydrate the skin through the day. Day creams can also used as a primer before applying a foundation and/or a compact powder to obtain an even skin tone. Choose a multi-tasking product wisely that contains collagen boosters to replenish your skin and keep it healthy and moisturized. Recommended by experts, Lakmé Youth Infinity Skin Firming Day Cream with Insta Collagen BoostersTM improves elasticity to tighten skin. SPF 15 PA++ protects skin from UVA/UVB, luminising pearls instantly brightens skin tone and niacinamide lightens skin to give you the perfect sculpted look.

Protection against UV rays

Whatever the season may be, don’t forget the sunscreen. It will give you radical protection from the

sun’s harmful rays that can cause tanning and put a damper on your quest to maintain

youthfulness.

Other than these beauty essentials, a good lifestyle and a happy state of mind also contribute to a

smiling skin. So, make sure you incorporate them as well.

Some Interesting Day Cream Myths Busted

Here are the most popular myths about day cream and their rebuttal:

Myth #1
If you use night cream, then you do not need to use day cream. Day cream and night cream both are important as they have different effects. If you do not use a day cream you will deprive your skin of protection against the UV rays of the sun, free radicals, oxidants and all kinds of harmful environmental effects. You don’t need to use day cream only when you plan to stay at home all day and even then, only on the condition that your skin feels well hydrated.

Myth #2
Oily skin does not need day cream. This misconception is also completely wrong. Oily skin needs just as much protection as any skin type and although it sounds strange, it needs moisturizing too. If you are of the oily skin type, choose a day cream which does not contain fats, but instead hydrates and protects
the skin from the sun. A well selected matting day cream can make oily skin look fabulous.

Myth #3
The more expensive the day cream, the better its quality. This too is nothing more than a myth. The basic ingredients in all day creams are pretty much the same. You can see for yourself by checking out the ingredients list on the label of the packaging. The difference in pricing comes from the fact that more expensive creams also contain additives such as vitamins and other natural ingredients.

Vivel Cell Renew Pollution Protect & Energizing Face Wash + Scrub - Review

Vivel Cell Renew has recently launched two new facial cleansers priced at Rs 79 each for 50 ml:

1. Pollution Protect Cleansing Cream + Scrub - Contains pomegranate and Pro-Vit E for purified and protected skin
2. Energising Face Cleanser + Scrub - Contains Orange Zest, rejuvenating micro pearls and Pro-Vit E for awakened skin

I personally love cleansers that also do the work of a scrub because it saves time and you don't have to apply a scrub separately. I've been trying out these cleansers for sometime now and they do quite a good job of cleaning and keeping the skin healthy and nourished.

Both cleansers come in a tube and while the Pollution Protect is more suitable for dry skin, the Energising one will work very well on oily skin. However, I've tried both on my normal/dry skin and have not faced any problem with either extra dryness or breakouts.

The Pollution Protect Cleansing Cream + Scrub has a creamy texture with medium consistency and has soft scrub particles in it that gently exfoliates skin to remove dirt and grime. The Energising Face Cleanser + Scrub, which is specially designed for evening use has a clear gel base infused with orange zest and micro pearls that does the work of the exfoliator. Both the cleansers are very mild so its ok to use everyday. I love the Energising cleanser more because of the orange smell and the refreshed feeling it gives me at the end of a long and tiring day.

Energising Face Cleanser + Scrub on top and Pollution Protect below

The new Vivel cleansers do good job in cleansing and making the skin look fresh and healthy. These can be a good choice for an everyday budget face wash depending on your skin type. Contains SLS though.

P.S - PR Sample. Honest review.

Have you tried the new Vivel cleansers?

Lakmé Skin Gloss Winter Intense Moisturizer - Review

I have very dry skin in winter and one of my major problems is that while there are plenty of lotions available to treat dry body skin, there aren't that many face moisturizers that are light, non-greasy and provide good hydration and protection against dryness. So glad that Lakme's newest product, the Skin Gloss Winter Intense Moisturizer is out to fill that void. I've been using the moisturizer for about a week now and really liking it.

Lakmé Skin Gloss Winter Intense Moisturizer

Lakmé Skin Gloss Winter Intense moisturizer, is a face moisturizer, designed keeping in mind your skin requirements during winter. It protects your skin from the harsh and cold weather, and also can be used as a primer for your make-up. The price is Rs 100 for 60 ml, Rs 195 for 120 ml, Rs 299 for 200 ml. 

The packaging of the product is very simple and not too appealing. Its a regular plastic bottle with a slight curve and a flip top cap. The texture of the lotion is not too thick or runny and spreads evenly. I like that the lotion is non-sticky, non-greasy and gets absorbed into the skin quite fast. In terms of providing hydration, this does a great job. It keeps my skin supple and well moisturized for nearly 8-9 hours and I don't feel the need to reapply in between. As per the claim of it being a primer for makeup as well, not really. It does act as a good foundation for makeup and preps the skin well but only as a moisturizer. 

The Lakmé Skin Gloss Winter Intense moisturizer is a really good product for winter and can be used by all skin types. Its non-greasy, non-oily, gets absorbed fast, provides good hydration for nearly 8-9 hours and is priced very reasonably. Don't expect it to do the work of a makeup primer but if you are looking for a moisturizer to combat dryness, you can try this out. 

*PR Sample. Honest review

Vivel Cell Renew Introduces Cell Renew range of Face Cleansers

Cell Renew augments its skin care portfolio with the introduction of a range of Face Cleansers. Specially formulated to fight everyday sources if damage, the Cell Renew face cleansers designed with dermatologists are infused with the goodness of Vitamin Nutrients.

Cell Renew Pollution Protect Cleansing Cream + Scrub and Cell Renew Energizing Face Cleanser + Scrub protects skin from the daily damage of ‘Pollution’ and ‘Stress’ respectively. Infused with Vitamin E, they also nourish your skin with every wash.

The Cell Renew Pollution Protect Cleansing Cream + Scrub protects skin from pollution damage. Powered with known antioxidants like Pomegranate extracts and Vitamin E, it detoxifies skin by neutralizing the free radical effect of pollution, thus keeping skin protected. The unique cleansing cream + scrub format purifies skin to remove the accumulated pollutants from your pores. Cell Renew Pollution Protect face cleanser hence keeps your skin purified, protected and nourished.

Cell Renew Energizing Face Cleanser + Scrub is specially designed for evening use. Energizing Face cleanser rejuvenates skin after a long stressful day. Infused with Orange Zest and Micro Pearls, this face wash has an energizing action that removes sebum and stickiness to alleviate signs of day-end dullness for rejuvenated and awakened skin.

Cell Renew Face Cleansers are available across modern trade outlets and Wills Lifestyle stores in India at Rs. 139 for 100 ml tubes.

Kaya Skin Clinic Pigmentation Reducing Complex - Review

If you have been following my Facebook page and my daily rants, you will know that my skin has been under a pimple attack for nearly two weeks now. And do you know how it started?? A lady had complimented me on my clear skin and asked what products I use. That obviously made my day and I went to sleep very happy. Cut to the next day, I see two pimples slowly making an appearance and in another two days time, they took on gigantic proportions!! A few more joined the party and my face slowly turned into a mess! Its not yet back to what it was but the numbers have thankfully reduced. Considering my current condition, I am probably not the best person to review a skincare product but this has been pending for a long time and it really delivered results when I used it. The product I'm talking about is Kaya skin clinic's latest launch - Pigmentation Reducing Complex.

Here's some information about the product -

The Intense Clarify HD range from Kaya is the ultimate solution for uneven skin tone and hyper-pigmentation. This advanced product range comprises highly effective active ingredients which are popularly used by dermatologists to treat pigmentation. The exceptional blend of active ingredients in the products brightens skin, treats cellular discoloration and improves skin clarity

One of the revolutionary products from this range - Pigmentation Reducing Complex which is a light-textured, fast absorbing cream that helps to reduce dark spots, tanning and pigmentation marks that are resistant and have been there for a long time. It contains highly potent actives like Azelaic acid and Phytic acid which are proven tyrosinase inhibitors. The actives not only help to reduce the spots but also prevent further darkening of skin. The Hydrating nature of the actives improves the feel of skin and keeps it soft and healthy. This product helps reduce dark spots in just 2 weeks.

My experience:

The Kaya Pigmentation Reducing Complex is to be applied daily at night before going to bed. And I did apply it every day for about two and a half weeks before my face got messed up. Remember I wrote in the beginning that a lady had complimented me on my clear and bright skin? Well, I think this product had a lot to do with it because other than my usual moisturizer in the day and this one at night, I was not using anything else. 

The product comes in a bottle with a transparent plastic cap and a pump style dispenser. The lotion is mildly scented and the texture light. It gets absorbed into the skin very fast and there is no greasiness at all. The product is designed to treat uneven skin tone and hyper pigmentation and even though I don't have major pigmentation problems, this really helped in making my skin look brighter and lighter.

The key ingredients of this product are quite potent and considered effective against pigmentation. The ingredients are all chemicals so you know why I'm saying they are potent stuff. On the first application, I did experience a very slight tingling sensation but it settled down soon after. I have a few brown spots on my cheeks and that's where I specifically applied the product at night to see the effect. And the effect was quite good. I am giving my face a break from chemicals till the pimples vanish so not using the Pigmentation Reducer now but after the 2 and a half weeks that I used it, there was a visible improvement. The brown spots had lightened slightly and there was a radiance and luminosity. The lotion also helped lighten my tanned skin considerably as well. Sighhhhhh. I miss you old skin!!

Once my pimples die, I know Ill be left with a lot of spots. Hopefully, the Pigmentation Reducer will be able to take care of them well. Will keep you updated on how it fared. Meanwhile, if you are battling uneven skin tone, tanning and hyper pigmentation, check out the Kaya Pigmentation Reducing Complex. It is priced at Rs 990. 

P.S - PR Sample. Honest review. 

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula with Vit E Body Lotion - Review

If there is one season that I absolutely detest, it is winter. And the major reason for that is my skin behaves terribly during this time. It gets super dry, looks very dull and tired, I get random pimples and I have to slather on moisturizer literally by the kilo! I've heard very good things about the popular Palmer's cocoa butter range of products and when medplusbeauty offered discounts on the entire range, picked up the Cocoa Butter skin oil and the body lotion.  And both of them are so good! 

The Palmer's Cocoa Butter formula body lotion has vitamin E in it and I would definitely recommend this to everyone looking for a body lotion for winter. It smells awfully good, exactly like melted chocolate. Unfortunately the smell does not last very long though. The texture is slightly thick but is not at all greasy. It absorbs very well and does not leave any greasy film on top of the skin. The lotion claims to soften, smooth and relieve dry skin and it does all these three very well. I apply the lotion after getting out of the shower and I am sorted for the next 8-9 hours. It is also supposed to smooth marks and tone skin though I still haven't noticed any of that. 

If you have dry skin like me and looking for a good winter body lotion, try the Palmer's Cocoa Butter formula. It is priced at Rs 425 for 350 ml and totally worth the price. Highly recommended! The Palmer's range of products is available at medplusbeauty.com.

What is your favorite body lotion for winter? Do share in the comments below.

L’Occitane launches New Immortelle Divine skincare range

L’Occitane shares the secret to eternal youth this November with its New Divine Range

The Immortelle Divine skin care range that is already the best selling in the world has now come to India to mark the onset of the festive season.

Divine Range is a unique range with unique results.

With a new formulation, L’OCCITANE has introduced a new complex of 7 naturally derived active ingredients, which dramatically boosts the already impressive properties of immortelle plant extracts. 

The legendary flower of Corsica is the ultimate secret of the Divine range that L’Occitane protects in a 5^th patent. This wild plant with the mysterious and poetic name “l’Immortelle” possesses many properties that L’OCCITANCE en Provence has been researching for over ten years in order to perfect its anti-aging skincare products.

It is a flower that never fades, even once picked.

Let’s feel special with L’Occitane’s extra-ordinary range- IMMORTELLE DIVINE

1. DIVINE LOTION 200ML Rs 3300: The lotion is essentially a toner that is crucial to a cleansing, toning & moisturizing routine. It is a rich softening lotion with an enveloping freshness.

THE PERFORMANCE – Maintains skin’s balance and helps accelerate cellular renewal

2. DIVINE EXTRACT 30ML Rs 6300: A serum with a fresh and velvety gel-cream texture that contains an exceptionally high concentration of active ingredients

THE PERFORMANCE – Visibly restores the overall structure of the face by helping restore definition to facial contours and improving firmness. Boosts the effectiveness of the Divine Cream

3. DIVINE CREAM 50ML Rs 6200 – A cream with a rich, smooth texture that gives an immediate feeling of comfort. 

THE PERFORMANCE – Acts at the heart of cells to help to visibly correct all the signs of ageing. Bursting with vitality, the skin glows with beauty.

4. DIVINE EYES 15ML Rs 3700: A fresh, silky gel-cream specially formulated for the fragile eye area. 

THE PERFORMANCE – It Smoothens, firms and brightens the eye area. For 72% of women, the eyes look visibly younger. 

The products will be available at all L'Occitane Stores in November

 www.loccitane.in

Easy Home remedies from The Skin Center to get glowing skin in winter

Dr Sirisha Singh, the founding member and Medical Director of The Skin Center helps you with some easy to use tips. She gives an easy to follow home-based regime which is based on your skin type and the skin sensation you experience in the extreme climate. Prevention and care comes handy with easy-to-use skin care products.

1.      Use of a Cleanser:

Cleansing the skin is all important at the beginning of the day to prepare the skin and at the end, while going to bed to get rid of the dirt and grime that our skin is subjected to during the day. Even people with normal to oily skin may need to use pH neutral cleansers during winter. A harsh cleanser can irritate the skin, increase the risk of eczemas and leaves the skin feeling rough and itchy. If one has a particularly dry skin, one can use an oatmeal bath. For this, take half a cup of oatmeal, blend it in the blender and mix it in a mug of water till it is fully dissolved and leaves a milky looking fluid. One can then use this as a soap substitute.

2.      Use of moisturizers:

There is no moisturizer suitable for all. A humectant such glycerine is usually mild and soaks inside the skin without feeling too heavy or greasy on the skin surface. If one has a collection of dead skin, then a mild exfoliant may be used to gently scrub away the dead skin. Shea butter containing moisturizers maybe more suitable for people with extremely dry skin. However, these feel greasy and are better tolerated overnight.

3.      Use of sunscreens:

After the harsh summer heat, the cool weather brings a relief and the general tendency is to believe that one doesn’t need sunscreens as there is hardly any sunlight. This is purely a myth as sunscreens protect from UV light and it is the visible light index that is low in winters whereas the UV index continues to stay high. Use of a sunscreen is therefore mandatory during winters and one may use a greasier sunscreen formulation like a lotion instead of a gel.

4.      Skin Care Regime:

Every individual has slightly different skin, different problem areas and different type of problems. The skin care regime therefore needs to be customized for each individual. In summary, most of us need an anti-ageing cream, perhaps a few more active agents like vitamins and a moisturizer at night. It is worthwhile seeing a Dermatologist to get a skincare regime for oneself.

5.      Internal wellness:

This continues to be a requirement all through the year as a healthy skin in a reflection of good inner health. One should continue to eat healthy, drink plenty of water and exercise regularly.

These were a few tips for healthy skin during winters. The list is purely indicative and by no means exhaustive, it is meant to be a general guide. For more specific information or requirements, you may consult a Dermatologist.

New Launch - Aaranyaa EE Cream

Vedic natural care Pvt. Ltd to launch India’s first revolutionary EE cream under brand Aaranyaa

No need to go for those painful pinches! Get natural. Get beautiful.

Finally a solution to energize your skin without medical hassles! Aaranyaa, a brand known for its premium beauty formulations and expert skincare is all set to thrill the industry yet again with their revolutionary discovery – the EE cream. Energy Enhancing, this cream is formulated with skin rejuvenating okra extracts. Also known as Hibicus Esculents scientifically, Okra is also commonly known as a BOTOX PLANT which helps revive your skin, reduce wrinkles naturally and strengthen the skin cells.

Some of the Skincare Benefits of Okra

• Good antioxidant

• Softens the skin as it works like an emollient

• Firms and tones the skin with a calming effect

• Okra has been considered as a noninvasive alternate to intensive procedures like Botox injections and artificial dermal fillers .Unlike from these costly Botox procedures with side effects, Okra reduces the need or extends the time between procedures by providing an ANTI-WRINKLES effect on fine lines.

• It’s rich in mucilage and some sugar components that hydrate and protect skin.

• Application of Okra extract is helpful in treatment of dry , old , dull and wrinkles skin.

• Okra extract is a natural treatment for expression lines.

After years of research and laboratory trials by world renowned cosmetologist Dr. P R Singh, there is now at last a way to revive your skin without troublesome medical procedures or clinical treatments. Primarily made using only the finest natural ingredients and essences, Aaranyaa’s new EE creams maintain the brand’s motive to enhance your skin naturally.

To repair, nurture and strengthen your skin, Vedic natural has launched the remarkable new Aaranyaa EEcream that will improve the skin's natural barriers to irritants and cure all your ageing skin problems. With the promise of delivering superior skincare benefits and international quality, it has proved to be a top of the line natural anti wrinkle cream.
Get ready to experience nature’s new gift and bring alive the youthfulness of your skin with the finest skin formulae from Aaranyaa.

Available at:

1) Store-18,sector-18, NOIDA; 09650398429

2) Dabur New U Store

Khan Market, Pacific Mall Rajori Garden, Spice Mall Noida, V3S Mall Laxmi Nagar, Mahagun Metro Mall Vaishali and Central Street Bangalore.

Online through Healthkart.com:http://www.healthkart.com/brand/beauty/Aaranyaa

YOUR STEP-BY-STEP SPICELICIOUS REGIME BY THE NATURE'S CO.

• Start your hair care by applying sufficient quantities of Rosemary Sage Thyme Hair Oil to cover the scalp completely. Keep overnight.
• Next morning apply Rosemary Hibiscus Hair Mask before bath for 30 minutes on your scalp and hair strands. Rinse off with warm water. Then rinse off your hair with a mild shampoo.
• While you have the hair pack on indulge in a body massage with the Sea Fennel Coconut Massage Oil for smooth, evenly textured skin and a healthy shine.
• Soak in the tub with the spicy-scented, pampering bath treat Cinnamon bath salt. It will relieve pain, stiffness of muscles and joints and stimulate circulation.
• Now cleanse your body with the tingly and refreshing Spearmint Body wash. It purifies, replenishes and revives your skin followed by Peppermint Face Wash.
• Moisturize your face with the Vanilla Vitamin E Face Cream
• After a tiring day at work, cleanse the dirt and grime with the White Pepper Cleansing Lotion . It can also be used to remove both eye and face make-up.
• And if you have walked a lot in your high heels, sprinkle a generous amount of Peppermint Foot soak in a tub and soak your Feet for 10 to 15 mins in it .
• Massage Walnut Mint Foot scrub on your heels and feel the micro-walnut granules easily & effectively removing dry and dead skin. Use it when you feel like you need that little extra boost of energy after a long day. Your feet will thank you for it!
• Before you hit the bed, a special night treatment for acne and blemishes can be followed. Apply a small amount of Garlic Anti Acne Cream directly onto acne or apply a small amount of Sandalwood anti blemish directly onto scars and blemishes as required. Leave it overnight for best results.
• Light an aroma candle with essential oils of cinnamon or clove. It will de - stress you and make you sleep like a baby.

New Launch - Keraskin's Immuniste Le Soleil

With the mercury soaring in our tropical country, urgent protection is required from the harmful rays of the sun, namely UVA and UVB. 

While UVA lead to photo-ageing with signs like premature wrinkles, spots and sagging of the skin, UVB leads to sunburn. And if this was not enough, prolonged exposure can also lead to cancer! 

But what if there is a breakthrough that will perpetuate the skin's youth during sun exposure?

Keraskin introduced the Keraskin Immuniste Le Soleil SPF 50+, a face sun cream that preserves the skins youth and prevents it from getting damaged by the sun. Immunize your skin and retain your youth, when when in the sun! 

Technology - Mexoryl (SX + XL) + Trihydrox that optimizes skin hydration and protects it from the UVA and UVB spectrum of rays. 

Application - Take a coin sized amount on the palm of your hand and apply with upward strokes on your face and neck before stepping out in the sun. 

Price - MRP 3200

Kiehl's unveils Skin Rescuer

Kiehl‘s offers a breakthrough solution to help correct

the visible signs of stress on skin

Introducing, Kiehl’s Skin Rescuer Stress-Minimizing Daily Hydrator. Utilizing highly efficient ingredients Mannose and Rosa Gallica, this facial formula helps address and reduce skin’s visible response to stress.

Kiehl’s Skin Rescuer actively works to minimize the visible signs of stress with key ingredients that limit the release of stress signals and promote a healthy, strong skin barrier. This result is that skin becomes less vulnerable to the signs of stress.

In order to efficiently combat the signs of stress on skin, Kiehl’s chemists discovered they needed to address three factors.

1. Limit the release of stress signals:
Rosa Gallica Extract: Stress is well documented to cause an inflammatory response in the body. A research team led by Carnegie Mellon University's Sheldon Cohen has found that chronic psychological stress is even associated with the body losing its ability to regulate the inflammatory response. The inflammatory response to stress signals and a weakened skin barrier can lead to visible “stressed skin” symptoms such as redness, fatigued skin, dehydration and blotchiness. In vitro data supports that Rosa Gallica Extract, sourced from the petals of the Rosa Gallica flower, limits the release of stress signals, in turn minimizing the inflammatory response and thus breaking the stress cycle.

2. Protect the skin barrier from future reactions:
Mannose: Research conducted by Columbia University’s Department of Dermatology validates that it is able to strengthen and reinforce the skin barrier. A stronger skin barrier is known to reduce visible signs of stress on skin, making it less vulnerable to future, inevitable stress.
Squalane: Naturally-derived from olives, this healing botanical lipid is highly compatible with the natural oils in skin. Instantly restores and replenishes the skin barrier and is known to protect skin from dehydration. Renowned for its easily-absorbed texture, as well as for its silky after-feel.
Blend of Unique Ceramides: These lipids found in high concentrations within the cell membrane of skin cells are known to help protect and strengthen the skin barrier.

3. Treat, calm and hydrate the skin: 
Chamomile Extract: Helps soothe and calm skin.
Glycerin: This humectant draws moisture from the air to increase immediate and prolonged hydration; helps skin regain its suppleness and smoothness.
Shea Butter: Naturally-derived from the African karate tree, it is a lipid known for its ability to protect skin from dehydration.

Available at all Kiehl's stores. Price is Rs 2500 for 75 ml.

The Body Shop Blueberry Body Butter - Review

Ahh it feels great to be back on the blog after a short break. If you want to know why I haven't been posting much, it's because I've been breaking my back practicing for a dance performance in office. I would have never put in my name but it's been made mandatory for senior management and I'm stuck! Hats off to all of you who can dance. I have a pair of left feet and it's been a struggle to get the steps right. The performance is next thursday so wish me luck ladies. Just pray that it's not a disaster of epic proportions!!

Coming back to beauty, I'm in love with this Body Shop Blueberry body butter. No, it's not available in India yet and I got it from Singapore but this thing smells divine!  I'm usually not a fan of fruity smells but this one is not 100% fruity. It's like a milky blueberry kind of a smell and I love it. It's specially for dry skin and made using cold-pressed blueberry seed oil sourced from America. True to its description, the Blueberry Body Butter:

• has a buttery texture
• hydrates very well  
• leaves skin soft and smooth
• absorbs fast and does not leave a greasy film on top of the skin

 

The con is that the smell does not last for too long but if you have dry skin, want long lasting hydration and live somewhere where this body butter is available , get it. For oily skin, it will be too heavy but you can definitely use it in winter. I am going to use it extensively in the coming months.

What's your favorite TBS Body Butter? Do share in the comments below.

PRESS NOTE: Forest Essentials presents ‘Made to Order’ Ayurvedic Beauty Cream

Exemplifying ‘Luxurious Ayurveda’ in its true meaning, Forest Essentials now presents its ‘Made to Order’ Ayurvedic Beauty Cream.  Made according to traditional Ayurvedic formulations, it is an intensely moisturising natural facial cream that can be applied during the day and night.

This customised Ayurvedic Beauty Cream, curated by Forest Essentials Research & Development and their team of Ayurvedic Doctors, will combine the knowledge of one’s skin type and Dosha*, matched to an individual preference of fragrance, beauty regime and skin concerns.

Formulated with a base of hydrating ingredients including Cold Pressed Organic oils, Kokum Butter, blended with renowned Ayurvedic herbs for individual concerns, this cream will be unique and one of its kind. This delicately textured cream will reflect one’s signature fragrance that could range from fresh tangy scents of lemons and grape fruit to the muskiness of pure sandalwood or the inimitable aroma of full bodied Indian roses. Adding to the uniqueness of this custom Beauty Cream, Forest Essentials formulations will use some original and personalised ingredients, unused in the existing collections of Facial care of the brand, widely available in its retail stores. The Brand, will also create individual labelling in a signature Forest Essentials 50 gm jar, made to order with the users name and special ingredients used.

Indulge in Luxurious Ayurveda | Made to Order. Read more here: http://www.forestessentialsindia.com/indulge.html

Price on Request (between Rs 2500/- - 5000/- ) 

About Forest Essentials

Forest Essentials is an Authentic Traditional yet Luxury Ayurvedic Skin Care Brand with its foundations in the ancient science of Ayurveda. A pioneer in this segment, today it has become the quintessential Indian Beauty Brand where secrets of ancient Ayurveda have been brought to life through pain-staking research and made available to modern day consumer. It is one of the only Brands which is involved in the conception, formulation, manufacturing, bottling and retailing of the products by the Company itself. 

Notes: *Dosha (Vata|Pitta|Kapha) or the 3 life giving forces, according to Ayurveda which define an individual’s unique personality, functioning of the body and varied skin textures (Please find attached the image of the same).

Thalgo Brightening Range of Skincare Products - Mini Reviews

I seem to have got myself a new obsession - skincare products! For many years, skincare used to be pretty low on my priority list. When shopping, I always went for makeup first, then hair products and last of all skincare. Not that makeup is no longer a priority but skincare has jumped up the ladder too. Have realized that I'm not getting any younger so need to pamper my skin and make it my best friend. Also helps that I've got product samples from some amazing brands to try out. In this post, I'll talk about a French brand - Thalgo that I'm using for the first time. I'll actually need two posts to review the products because there are quite a few of them. Today, I'll talk about the brightening range meant for sun damaged/pigmented skin. I do have mild pigmentation problems on my cheeks and around my mouth so was really eager to try out this range and find out if it works. The reviews are based on my experience using samples but I've got quite a number of them (more than what's in the pic below) so can judge pretty well. 

About Thalgo - 

Thalgo makes the most of the extraordinary potential of the sea to develop its Home-care (Retail) products and Professional treatments by combining the properties of algae, seaweeds, minerals, sea salts, vitamins and of all the goodness of pure sea water. The wide-range of exceptional facial treatments helps you to overcome all types of skin concerns like purification, dehydration, anti-pollution and anti-ageing. The equally varied body treatments will aid you in detoxification, relaxation, cellulite-reduction, slimming and firming in the most effective way. Thalgo Cosmetics, France the true innovator in the world of Marine Beauty!

Thalgo products are FREE from Parabens, Propylene glycol, Mineral Oil, Silicone, Artificial colouring, GMO and FREE from ingredients of Animal Origin (except beeswax).

The Products - I have mentioned the products in the order that they need to be used. 

1. Unizones Clearing Corrector - An ultra-concentrated brightening corrector Helps specifically reduce size & intensity of each pigmentation mark Slows down production & migration of melanins Skin appears clearer & evenly-toned.

This is the first product to be used in the skin brightening regime. The Clearing Corrector is a concentrated corrector to be applied directly on pigmentation spots. This is a liquid that gets absorbed into the skin very fast. I have been using the corrector along with the products so don't really know whether this alone is effective but I can see a difference in my skin. It looks a lot more radiant and supple. Rs. 2350 for 30 ml

2. Brightening Regulating Essence - 

A brightening & regulating essence Formulated with Red Algae to restrain photo-induced pigmentation Contains Liquorice Flower Extract to lessen existing discolorations Loaded with Salicylic Acid to minimize the appearance of pore size Reduces shine for a matte finish Unveils a clearer & more evenly-toned complexion Free of paraben, mineral oil & propylene glycol

After the corrector, the essence needs to be applied  It is meant to prep the skin and is to be followed by the application of the Smoothing Brightening Fluid. The texture of the essence is really light and watery maybe because glycerin is an active ingredient. This product is good for combination-oily skin type as it goes on to a matte finish. I like that the skin looks 'alive' after using this. If you have combination to oily skin and looking for a brightening serum, this is not a bad choice. Rs. 3700 for 30 ml

3. Smoothing Brightening Fluid - 

This lightweight brightening fluid helps your skin regulate melanogenesis and boost the production of youth proteins. Your complexion looks more luminous, with an impeccable matte finish. Your skin is more supple, plumped up, and visibly younger-looking.

The next step is the application of either the smoothing brightening fluid or the melt-in smoothing brightening cream, depending on your skin type. I tested both and went for the fluid because it was much lighter and easier on the skin.  The fluid is for those with combination and oily skin as it gives off a matte finish. I was actually expecting a watery liquid looking at the name fluid but it's got the texture of a light skin lotion. I have been using the fluid during the day and I like that it keeps my skin hydrated for a very long time. Would have liked it to have SPF but it does not so I do need to apply sunscreen on top of this. Apart from using the fluid in combination with the other products, I have also used it on its own and I like the effect. My skin feels moisturized, soft and radiant. Rs. 3300 for 50 ml

4. Melt-in Smoothing Brightening Cream - 

This brightening cream helps prevent the appearance of pigmentation marks and stimulate the production of youth proteins. Its texture is ideal for use in the evening or during cold spells. Your face recovers its full luminosity and youthful appearance.

This is a product that will suit those with dry skin. The cream is quite thick and smells rather weird. Very medicine type unfortunately. Provides good hydration and moisturisation though. Because of how rich it is, I prefer to use the brightening fluid in place of the cream so cant really comment on whether it works or not. But if it does the same thing as the fluid, it should definitely. Rs. 3850 for 50 ml

I have been using the above products for nearly 2 weeks now and liking the effect on my skin. The brightening range is helping my skin to 'glow' and I've been getting a lot of compliments. Post summer, my skin darkens and looks very dull. The range is helping the skin rejuvenate and also lighten up. Touch Wood! Regarding reduction in pigmentation, I've seen the area around my mouth get more even but there's still a lot of work left to do on the cheeks. I'm hoping that the products will help reduce the major pigmentation there. 

Thalgo products works well on the skin but they are super expensive. You only need a tiny bit so will last for a long time but still try and get some samples and see whether they work before investing. Will review some more Thalgo products in the next post. 

P. S - Samples sent by Brand. Review 100% mine.