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. 

Ananda in the Himalayas launch their Signature range of Body & Skin Care Products

 The award winning destination spa ‘Ananda in the Himalayas’ brings to you its signature spa body and skin care products. These products offer the essence of pristine Himalayan freshness taking you on an enriching journey of wellness.

Evolved with painstaking research over the past ten years, Ananda’s signature spa product portfolio includes a full range of body, face and bath products. Using the power of pure essential oils these products invigorate, detoxify and ground the mind, body and the soul.

Embrace the wonderful tranquillity and unique surroundings of the Himalayas by opening up one of its signature spa products and experiencing a sensory journey, which will not only nourish the skin but rejuvenate the soul and awaken positive thoughts of somewhere very special.

The complete range of products are available at the Ananda in the Himalayas online store:http://store.anandaspa.com

PRODUCTS

BODY OILS

Wild Rose Body Oil

Containing pure essential oil of wild rose, blended in a rich nourishing sunflower and wheat germ oil (Wheat Germ is naturally rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, and also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, F, Essential Fatty Acids, protein, and minerals making it a powerful anti-oxidant with regenerative properties)

MRP: INR 850/-

Detoxifying Body Oil

A fusion of pure essential oils of Juniper, Grapefruit and Cypress, known for their powerful detoxifying properties blended in a rich nourishing sunflower and wheat germ oil (Wheat Germ is naturally rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, and also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, F, Essential Fatty Acids, protein, and minerals making it a powerful anti-oxidant with regenerative properties)

MRP: INR 850/-

Invigorating Body Oil

A fusion of pure essential oils of Orange, Eucalyptus and Peppermint, known for their powerful uplifting properties blended in a rich nourishing sunflower and wheat germ base oil (Wheat Germ isnaturally rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, and also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, F, Essential Fatty Acids, protein, and minerals making it a powerful anti-oxidant with regenerative properties)

MRP: INR 900/-

Grounding Body Oil

A fusion of pure essential oils of Sandalwood, Rose and vetiver, known in India as the oils of tranquillity and sensuality, blended in a rich nourishing sunflower and wheat germ oil (Wheat Germ isnaturally rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, and also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, F, Essential Fatty Acids, protein, and minerals making it a powerful anti-oxidant with regenerative properties)

MRP: INR 850/-

Ananda Spice Body Oil

A fusion of pure essential oils of ginger, cardamom and black pepper used for thousands of years in India, known for their powerful warming and clearing properties. Blended in a rich nourishing sunflower and wheat germ base oil (Wheat Germ is naturally rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, and also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, F, Essential Fatty Acids, protein, and minerals making it a powerful anti-oxidant with regenerative properties)

MRP: INR 850/-

BODY SCRUBS

Wild Rose Salt Scrub/ bath salt

Natural Sea salts infused with the pure essential oil of Indian Rose.

MRP: INR 600/-

Grounding Salt Scrub / bath salt

Natural sea salts infused with Sandalwood, Rose and Vetiver pure essential oils renowned for their balancing, nourishing and cooling properties.

MRP: INR 650/-

BODY LOTIONS

Nourishing Sandalwood lotion

Containing pure essential oil of sandalwood

MRP: INR 900/-

Calming Wild Rose Lotion

Containing pure essential oil of Kashmiri Wild Rose

MRP: INR 900/-

FACIAL CLEANSERS

Cleansing Cream for Normal & Dry Skin

Containing pure essential oils of Indian Sandalwood and Rose.

MRP: INR 900/-


Cleansing Cream for Oily Skin

Containing pure essential oils of Juniper and Indian holy Basil.

MRP: INR 900/-

FACIAL TONER

Wild Rose Toner

Containing distillate of Kashmiri wild rose

MRP: INR 650/-

FACIAL MASK

Aloe gel & Rose Distillate Hydrating Mask

Organic Aloe- Vera gel infused with Rose distillate.

MRP: INR 850/-

FACIAL MOISTURISERS

Moisturiser for Normal & Dry Skin

Containing pure essential oils of Sandalwood and Rose.

MRP: INR 1100/-

Moisturiser for Oily Skin

Containing pure essential oils of Juniper and Holy Indian Basil.

MRP: INR 1100/-

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

Usher in the New Year with exciting New Launches from Iraya

IRAYA, known for its naturally fresh and healthy products, now reaches out to beauty patrons of India with unparalleled new product offerings. With a “do-me-good” appeal in each formulation, the new wrinkle care range, and night nourishing cream from Iraya visually firms and lifts your skin to make you look as young as ever. The Morning Glory sun-damage repair cream vows to boost luminosity of your skin.

Spirulina & Arjuna Night nourishing cream
Replenishes and revitalizes the skin
50 Gm Rs.695

A natural emulsion base made up of concentrated extract of Spirulina, a rich source of proteins, vitamins and vital amino acids, that provides a boost of nutrients. Arjuna extract improves microcirculation leading to a better skin nutrient supply. Grapeseed oil has excellent emollient and moisture locking properties, which keeps the skin supple. This formulation is a powerful nutrifying blend that intensely replenishes & revitalizes when the skin is at its most receptive.

Ginseng Root - Wrinkle Hiding Cream
Breakthrough dual-action formula. Conceals wrinkles, Promotes Cellular rejuvenation
50 Gm Rs.795

A breakthrough dual-action formulation that visibly reduces wrinkles for younger looking skin. It works both cosmetically (on the surface of the skin) and therapeutically (from within). With concentrated extracts of ginseng root and alchemilla, itstimulates cellular renewal and energizes skin, enhancing its firmness and elasticity. A powerful antioxidant, ginseng is an adaptogen that strengthens skin’s immunity and resistance to stress, so that signs of ageing are delayed and wrinkles stay away longer. Alchemilla promotes skin healing and healthy growth.

Indian Kapok - Wrinkle eye cream
Conceals imperfections & rejuvenates the delicate undereye area.
20Gm Rs.595

This cream performs a dual function of treating dark circles & wrinkles as well as concealing the under eye area. Lotus seed contains protein repairing enzymes and Indian kapok, a powerful skin healing agent, intensely nourishes. Antioxidant properties of bramhi, ginseng & alchemilla aid tissue firming & fight against the signs of aging.

Morning Glory- Sun-Damage Repair Cream
Lightens uneven pigmentation, excessive tanning & dark spots
50 GM Rs.795

Excessive exposure to the Sun, could lead to uneven pigmentation and a blotchy skin tone. Glycosidic resins present in Nishoth (Morning Glory) and the powerful renewing properties of Arjuna help correct these skin tone irregularities. Kojic acid is extremely beneficial in controlling melanocytes to keep level of melanin in control. Regular use reduces dark spots & refines skin texture to reveal enhanced radiance and a healthy skin tone.

About Iraya

The Iraya brand of beauty and wellness products was launched in 2006 by Sadatan Pure Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. Sadatan has been manufacturing and exporting beauty and wellness products for over 20 years in highly evolved beauty markets like France, Italy, Russia and the US. Founded by Rahul Kale and Neepa Chatterjee, Iraya is the culmination of ancient Indian knowledge and advanced international expertise- perfect synergies for the modern day consumer.

Today Sadatan conducts R&D and manufactures its own brand IRAYA with world famous tried and tested beauty formulations. At present, IRAYA has become the favorite beauty and wellness brand for leading Hotel and Spas groups in India and international markets. IRAYA Spa products are popular for administering therapies in the Spa and also for retail through exclusive and well-known Spas across the world.

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.

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.

Auravedic Neem Tea Tree Pulpy Face Wash - Review

Raise your hands if you've had a super awesome Diwali eating yummy food and sweets, wearing lovely makeup, staying up late celebrating, not getting enough sleep and now after the festivities are over have a few ungainly spots and pimples across your face. Do I see a few hands going up? Then this post is for you and of course for all the oily and acne prone skin beauties looking for a product to battle your woes. And that product is Auravedic’s Neeem Tea Tree Pulpy Face wash.

So what does this face wash do? According to Auravedic, “This ultimate acne-fighting face wash with Neem and Tea tree works together to cut through oil, dissolving dirt and impurities without overdrying or irritation. Skin is left clear and smooth. And what’s best is that the product is free of parabens, SLS, harmful chemicals and colors.

They do mention that the product might not be suitable for all skin types because of the high concentration of natural extracts but I have not faced any problem on my normal-dry skin. Oily skin should love it but just to be on the safe side, a patch test is recommended.

This is the first Auravedic product I’m using and I’m really impressed with the quality. Not so much with the packaging though. They were probably going for the simple, natural theme but wish the tub looked a bit more visually appealing. I know a lot of you do not like tub packaging but I quite like scooping out the pulpy wash to create the lather. This is my first time using a pulpy face wash and I already like it more than the gel ones. If this face wash was in a gel form probably the effect would have been the same but this pulpy texture makes me think of it as more natural and that’s why I like it.

I take a pea sized amount, mix it with water, create lather and wash my face to get squeaky clean skin. Just make sure you don’t get it inside your mouth coz it smells and tastes exactly like neem does. And we all know how wonderful neem tastes! Also, don’t get it in your eyes coz the neem and tea tree combo will sting them. Both ingredients are quite potent and therefore very effective in controlling oil secretion and fighting off pesky zits and pimples. The face wash also removes mild makeup pretty well and I love how clean and fresh it makes my skin afterwards. I have normal-dry skin and I have not felt any dryness after washing it off but that might be a problem during winter. I've been using it for two weeks now and can see the difference. My skin has cleared up and my chin which is a permanent breeding ground for pesky zits is also free of them now. And that even my other favorite, The Body Shop Tea Tree face wash could not achieve in two weeks!

The pulpy face wash is priced at a very reasonable Rs 150 and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to get clean and clear skin. In winter, the face wash might be a bit drying on normal-dry skin but this is just perfect for summer. If you have oily and acne prone skin, you have to try it!

P.S - PR sample. Review 100% mine.