Garnier Wrinkle Lift Anti-ageing Cream {Product Review}

Source: from website

I am not a lover of moisturizers as I have said earlier on the blog too. I rarely come across some which suit me and this one did!!! So, lets see how well it works??? Ok, I don't have the ingredient list but then its a Garnier product so it is definitely full of chemicals and all but it does have some extracts also mentioned which I remember I read on the list.

Price: 199 INR for 40 gms

My Experience

Well, I used this moisturizer for around 3 weeks but the main user of this is my dad. And, I would say that this actualy reduces the wrinkles on the face. The difference was pretty much apparent when my dad used Himalaya Revitalizing Night Cream for a day and his face had become too wrinkly.  So, yup, no permanent results which no drug store brands can actually give but till the time you use the cream, it does give you a glow and keeps the skin uplifted. 

The product smells really nice and is off-white in color and comes in an attractive red glass jar. Ok, yeah, you have to dig your fingers in. I loved the feel of the moisturizer. It is light and rich and super creamy. A very little quantity of the product required and it keeps your skin hydrated for the whole day. You can instantly see the tightening of your skin and with regular use, the skin actually glows. It also gives a dewy look to the skin. And, the cream is not oily but this might not be suitable for oily skin, I guess. I think it will suit dry skin really well coz of its creamy texture. So, in short, this is one cream which does do what it claims. And, yeah, 40 gms will probably last you one and a half moth if used morning and at night which is quite a good thing. 

My Recommendation

Yes, for people with mature skin or looking for a good anti-aging cream.

READ MORE - Garnier Wrinkle Lift Anti-ageing Cream {Product Review}

Snowberry wins Discover Beauty Award {Press Release}

Premium anti-ageing skin care brand Snowberry received the Discover Beauty Award at Cosmoprof USA this month.

In this, the largest cosmetics trade show in the US calendar, just 17 new brands from around the world were selected to be part of Discover Beauty, a Cosmoprof programme to identify the most innovative brands most likely to succeed in the highly competitive US market.

The selected brands were judged on creativity, innovation and market readiness by buyers from specialty retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman, C.O. Bigelow, Henri Bendel and HSN as well as various beauty bloggers including Bellasugar.com, DailyMakeover.com and Youbeauty.com.

The 2011 Discover Beauty Award winner, Snowberry from New Zealand was announced at the Discover Beauty Party at MIX in THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. This natural, but highly functional anti-aging skin care line is full of peptides, antioxidants, super fruits, and the finest herbal oils, including extracts from New Zealand rain forest plants cultivated on Snowberry's plantation.

Receiving the Award, Snowberry founder Soraya Hendesi said she believed the Award recognised a brand that is visually appealing as well as one that does not stint on offering women extraordinarily rich skin care products.

“We have customers all around the world who say how much they love the Snowberry brand. But it is much more important to me when they tell me how much their skin has improved. I have never been interested in skin care that compromises or pretends. I want the finest known anti-ageing bio-actives, and I want all of them. I want Snowberry to benefit every woman’s skin, every single day, for her lifetime.”

Snowberry launched in Germany; is represented in the UK, The Netherlands and Scandinavia, and this year is entering Italy, Korea, and China, and now the USA.

The Discover Beauty Award is Snowberry’s third international award in two years. Last year Snowberry won the prestigious Silver Dieline for best packaging and branding in Chicago, and was Runner Up Favourite Brand at Beyond Beauty at Cosmeeting in Paris.

READ MORE - Snowberry wins Discover Beauty Award {Press Release}

Tela Beauty Organics Phyto Keratin Smoothing Treatment Blowout {Press Release}

Tela Beauty Organics, LLC, a luxury organic hair care company dedicated to creating USDA Certified organic performance hair and body care products, announced today the launch of Tela Beauty Organics Phyto Keratin Smoothing Treatment BLOW OUT! by Philip Pelusi, a formaldehyde-free keratin smoothing hair treatment that contains 85% USDA Certified Organic ingredients.

Philip Pelusi, celebrity stylist, CEO and Founder of Tela Beauty Organics -a performance based hair care line comprised of shampoos, conditioners, styling products complete with USDA Certified Organic and Oregon Tilth Certified Organic approval standards, is proud to launch BLOW OUT! and its groundbreaking formula, containing Hydro-Charged Pelusi Ceramide Complex, during his 45th milestone year as beauty industry leader, product innovator, stylist, educator, and multiple salon owner.

BLOW OUT! contains NO Formaldehyde and NO Formaldehyde Derivatives; NO Aldehydes, NO harsh chemicals, NO irritating fumes or odors, AND is Sulfate, Paraben free with Allergen Free Fragrance.

Philip Pelusi's revolutionary Hydro-Charged Pelusi Ceramide Complex, Patent Pending is a potent strengthening and moisture binding plant ceramide complex that repairs, strengthens and reconstitutes hair's inner structure with its lipid hydration system.

Tela Phyto-Keratin Micro-Emulsion, also designed and innovated by Pelusi, deeply conditions and penetrates hair with moisture-based plant derived amino acids, natural fruit acids, and betaine.

Tela Beauty Organics Phyto-Keratin Smoothing Treatment BLOW OUT! also contains Pelusi's proprietary USDA Certified Organic Regenerating Blend: Organic Horsetail, Organic Reishi Mushroom, Organic Sprouted Soy, Organic Aloe, Organic Lavender, Organic Bilberry; and Organic Sugar Cane and Sugar Maple. Plus, organic cuticle sealers and shine enhancers Organic Orange and Lemon.

Tela Beauty Organics Phyto-Keratin Smoothing Treatment BLOW OUT! eliminates frizz and leaves hair smoother and shinier for approximately 4-6 weeks. Hair is dramatically restored, renewed, healthier, stronger, silky, shiny and lustrous. This semi-permanent organic treatment does not alter the hair's chemistry. It actually leaves it stronger rather than weakening its internal structure.

BLOW OUT! is a hair smoother and rejuvenating treatment in one! So gentle that it can and should be used immediately after a hair color service to seal in color and improve hair fabric's condition.

The Tela Design Studio by Philip Pelusi in New York City is the first official hair studio to offer BLOW OUT! to its clients as a salon service. The Tela Design Studio is an expression of Philip Pelusi's life long passion for healthy hair and organic beauty.

Tela Beauty Organics Phyto-Keratin Smoothing Treatment BLOW OUT is being distributed to select salons and spas across the United States.

READ MORE - Tela Beauty Organics Phyto Keratin Smoothing Treatment Blowout {Press Release}

Himalaya Herbals Natural Moisturizing Lip Butter {Product Review}

Price: 125 INR for 10 gms

Ingredients

Well, I am really sorry that I threw away my pack but I remember reading the list and admiring few things in it. It has cocoa and sal and kokum butter. In fact the list was full of oils and butters and it also has beeswax and it is free from petroleum which is a huge plus for this product. 

My Experience

I have been using this since quite a long while (probably around 3 weeks). My biggest complain with this one is its packaging. I would have enjoyed this lip balm had it been in the tube or packaged just like Nivea lip balms because of hygiene and also because of the ease of use of the product. It pretty easy to use the tube on the lips as compared to digging into the tub and scooping it out and then smoothing it on the lips. Apart from this, I would say that the lip balm delivers what it promises. I use this on my lips on the days when I am at home or at night and it keeps my lips soft. Ok, there is probably another thing. The product is moisturizing but it sits on the lips. Well, this is a problem I face with every other lip balm I have tried (including Vaseline, Nivea and Baviphat) so I wouldn't say this lip balm fails on this point. And, of course, you have to apply it every time you eat or drink anything otherwise it stays for minimum of 3-4 hours. But, this lip balm doesn't dry the lips like some others do. And, this smells really awesome. But, the smells lingers on for a long time after you have applied so if you have a sensitive nose then it might irritate you after a certain while. And, regarding the quantity, it will last a long time.        

 

My Recommendation

Yes, it is a good lip balm to keep the lips soft and to prevent chapped lips problem.

PS: Product sent by brand for consideration.

READ MORE - Himalaya Herbals Natural Moisturizing Lip Butter {Product Review}

Lotus Herbals announced the “Lotus Beauty Star- Esthetician of the year Award” {Press Release}

 Mr. Kamal Passi, Chairman and Managing Director, Lotus Herbals, Mr. Nitin Passi, Director, Marketing and Sales and Mr. Dipin Passi, Director Lotus Herbals, with the first Prize winner Ms. Kalpana Rathore, Benher Beauty Salon, Lucknow

Lotus Herbals Professional, the professional skin care brand from Lotus Herbals Ltd., hosted the ‘Lotus Beauty Carnival’, India’s First Professional Beauty Congress, at the luxurious Marriott Resort and Spa, in Goa, recently. The nation’s leading estheticians and salon owners celebrated their success at a dazzling awards function which was the main attraction of the event. The glitzy event witnessed a power packed musical performance by the renowned bollywood singer Akriti Kakkad and a troupe of dancers who mesmerized the crowd with their power packed performance.

Mr. Kamal Passi, Chairman and Managing Director, Lotus Herbals, Mr. Nitin Passi, Director, Marketing and Sales, Lotus Herbals and Mr. Dipin Passi, Director, Lotus Herbals, with the first runner up  Ms. Rashmi Mishra, Rashmi Beauty Parlor, Rourkela

The ‘Lotus Beauty Carnival 2011’was a celebration of the “Lotus Beauty Star – Esthetician of the Year Contest 2010-11”. This innovative contest was initiated on September 1st, 2010 and carried on till March 31st, 2011. The contest received a tremendous response with more than 1500 enrolments from estheticians and salons across India and Nepal who participated in this contest.

 Mr. Kamal Passi, Chairman and Managing Director, Lotus Herbals, Mr. Nitin Passi, Director, Marketing and Sales and Mr. Dipin Passi, Director Lotus Herbals, with the second runner up.Mr. Ashok Kumar, Cloud 9, Dehradun

Adding glamour to the “LOTUS BEAUTY STAR 2010-11 Awards” function was television super star Mona Singh of Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi fame, who announced the names of the winners. The awards were divided into two categories, Awards for National winners and Awards for City winners and were given away by Mr. Kamal Passi, Chairman and Managing Director, Lotus Herbals, Mr. Nitin Passi, Director, Marketing and Sales, Lotus Herbals and Mr. Dipin Passi, Director, Lotus Herbals. The first prize, in the national awards category, was won by Ms. Kalpana Rathore of Benher Beauty Salon, Lucknow who got a cash prize of Rs 1,00,000. The first runner up was Ms. Rashmi Mishra, Rashmi Beauty Parlor, Rourkela who got a cash prize of Rs 50,000 and the second runner up was Mr. Ashok Kumar, Cloud 9 salon, Dehradun got a cash prize of Rs 25,000. Apart from these winners, awards were given to the first city winners from the participating cities across the country.

 Bollywood Singer Akriti Kakkad performing at the Lotus Beauty Star Awards night at the Marriott Resort and Spa, Goa on 26^th July 2011

The “Lotus Beauty Carnival” and the “Lotus Beauty Star- Esthetician of the Year Award” is yet another testament to Lotus Herbals commitment to be a driving force in the professional beauty care industry in India.

Television Super Star, Mona Singh, announcing the names of the winners at the Lotus Beauty Star Awards night, at the Mariott Resort and Spa, Goa on 26^th July 2011

About Lotus Herbals

Lotus Herbals Ltd. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of quality natural cosmetics based on the 5000 years old science of Ayurveda. An ISO 9001 (2000) certified company, Lotus Herbals follows strict manufacturing processes as per GMP. Lotus Herbals retail range reaches 125 cities and towns through 8 branch offices and 400 distributors. The brand is currently available at over 45,000 leading retail outlets including Departmental and chain stores across India.

Lotus Herbals’ professional division currently serves 85 cities through 110 distributors with world class technical products, education and services reaching over 5,400 beauty salons and spas.

READ MORE - Lotus Herbals announced the “Lotus Beauty Star- Esthetician of the year Award” {Press Release}

Update on Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic {Product Review}

I was sent a small sample of this tonic some time back and I had reviewed it here. At that time, I had mentioned that the toner was heavy for my skin and probably a spray bottle would be helpful in controlling the amount of the product applied. So, consequently, Louise sent me the spritzer to try out. I have been using the spritzer since almost a month and I would like to update my experience accordingly. Before I write the review, I would like to mention this review is not for the benefit of the brand. Instead, I had missed out on certain salient points of the product in my earlier review so including them and sharing my experience with the spritzer. Check out the toner at the website.    

Ingredients

My Experience

Ok, so I have never used a toner before except for rose water. So, using this toner was very new for me and since I used it from the bottle directly, it always resulted in usage of more product and consequently it became very heavy for my skin. Using the spritzer was also a challenge for me in the starting coz I always used to spray it more thinking this little amount wouldn't be enough for the skin. But, controlling my urge, I gradually found out that only 3 sprays are more than enough for my face. And, after letting it dry for 2-3 minutes and following with Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturizer, my skin was extremely soft and looked radiant. I then used the toner with other products like Himalaya Revitalizing Night Cream and Varnya and the result was equally good.

Now, coming to other aspects of the toner. The toner is alcohol free and is full of natural ingredients like aloevera and natural Vitamin E. The consistency of this toner is almost like water and gets absorbed into the skin very quickly and keeps the skin supple. So, if I compare the ingredients of this toner with others available in the market, I would definitely go for this one even though the price is a bit on the higher side. Also, the toner would last quite a long while coz you need just 3-5 sprays at a time. One can use the spritzer during hot summer months to keep the face fresh and radiant or during air travel where moisture is sucked out due to the air conditioning. I had found other reviews about this toner and found them to be quite favorable and one lady had recommended this one for air travels specially. The toner fulfills the need for hydration of the skin without making it sticky if used int he right quantity. 

My Recommendation

Yes, absolutely!!! I know its costly but it is worth it and lasts quite a long time. 

PS: Product sent by brand for consideration. 

READ MORE - Update on Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic {Product Review}

Biotique Mountain Ebony Fresh Growth Stimuating Serum {Product Review}

This is one of the few hair range products from Biotique which I absolutely would recommend to anyone especially if they have sensitive scalp or suffer with scalp issues.

Price: 159 INR for 120 ml (little pricy, I guess!!!)

Ingredients

Ingredients - Neem, Licorice Root powder, Long pepper, Safflower, Pudina, Mountain Ebony (in order of listing)

Read here about Mountain Ebony.

My Experience

Ok, so let me start with its smell. Really weird and very herbal but not very offensive so nothing to worry about. Now, the look and feel. If you read the ingredient list, you can find that the main ingredient of the product is water so yup, it is watery. Entirely watery and not a gel or a fluid or even a slight bit viscous. When you pour the product on to your hand, it runs and escapes almost like water. So, that becomes a problem with the product. Since its so watery, the application is a little difficult so you have to figure out the exact method on how to apply. My favorite way is to use the Wella hair developer which I use to apply hair oil too. That way, you can be sure you have covered every area on your scalp and the product doesn't go waste coz it gets applied on the scalp. And, while applying, you would automatically need to massage the product in otherwise it will run off the scalp. Now, let me talk a little about the product now. 

Biotique says "This intensive serum helps stimulate new and healthy hair growth. Leaves scalp feeling exhilarated, free from dryness and irritation". When you apply it to the scalp, it feels very cool and soothing to the scalp. It is very good for the scalp which is pretty sensitive and itchy. It calms the scalp on the days when your hair is paining or scalp is aching. Well, regarding the hair growth claims, I am not completely sure but I am not even ruling it out coz I have definitely seen some changes but since I am not entirely sure, I will talk about this claim if I see any positive proof of this claim. One more thing which I would add to the positives of this product is that it relives the dryness and oiliness of the scalp. Yes, it can do both. I don't know how it is possible but I think it balances out the oil production. The proof for this is that I have dry scalp sometimes which is easily cured when I apply this. And, once I had applied this after oiling my hair since I didn't wash it that day, my scalp looked almost oil free after a while. 

A word of caution is that this product is only for the scalp and not the hair so it shouldn't be applied on the hair. And, massaging the product in improves blood circulation too. And, after applying this product, do not comb your hair because the scalp is little wet with the product and hairs may break if you try to comb. I always apply this product at night and this can be applied everyday without fail. It doesn't make the scalp greasy or anything so one need not worry about that. This product is suitable for every kind of hair type and scalp type.

My Recommendation

Yes, absolutely coz it is very effective and not that expensive.

READ MORE - Biotique Mountain Ebony Fresh Growth Stimuating Serum {Product Review}

Himalaya Herbals Revitalizing Night Cream {Product Review}

Night Creams are supposed to be contain rich and revitalizing nutrients for the skin so as to repair the damage done to the skin in the morning. So, let us see how this one fares.

Price: 90 INR for 25gms

Ingredients

xMy Experience

This small sample of 25gms was sent to me for review but you need so less to cover the face and neck that this tub would last me around two months if I use it regularly. The cream is light in consistency and not very thick and gets absorbed into the skin very easily. Now, it is very important to apply the right amount of the cream otherwise it will create a layer and sit on the skin and do nothing for the skin. One thing which is pretty noticeable after applying the cream is that the skin feels toned up. In the morning, you wake up with a very smooth and soft skin. I wouldn't say that it has any effect on the fine lines though coz I haven't seen any changes in them. 

My Recommendation

A good and inexpensive night cream for skin which just needs preventive measures not curative ones.     

PS: Product sent by brand for consideration.

READ MORE - Himalaya Herbals Revitalizing Night Cream {Product Review}

SLS / SLES in Lush {Ingredient}

If you are a brand conscious and ingredient conscious consumer, you would have noticed that the solid shampoos of Lush have SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate) as one of their ingredients. I was a little disappointed with this revelation as I had put hopes on Lush for being a SLS-savior on the shampoo front for me. Then, later on, in one of the sites I had read a comment by the reader. She said that she was told by the Lush sales girl that the SLS used in Lush products is natural. Now, I was boggled by that statement and did some research on that.

SLS and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulphate) are chemical products and not vegan or organic ingredients. Though both SLS and SLES are derived from coconut or palm oils, they have to be reacted with sulphuric acid and ethylene oxide respectively. So, comparatively SLES is a gentler ingredient of the two but when ever SLES is used, you would generally find another ingredient in the list called 'Cocamidopropyl Betaine' which is used to make the SLES even more milder so as to reduce irritation due to the ingredient. (source) 

I have checked two or three products which list SLES as their ingredients and have found Betaine to be another of their ingredients. And, regarding the usage of SLS / SLES in Lush, I had sent a mail to the US office regarding my concern and this is their response:

Thank you for writing to us.  We use sodium lauryl sulfate in our solid shampoos, and we do not consider this ingredient to be a natural one. Although it does originate from coconut materials, it does undergo some changes which deem it a synthetic material by our view.

We do list our full ingredients on our website, in our stores, and in our catalogue, and we aim to be as transparent as possible so that our customers can select products they feel comfortable with. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns and I’d be glad to help!

So, next time you go to a Lush store and find these ingredients, please note that there is nothing natural about SLS / SLES and not all products in Lush are vegan coz they have parabens and other chemicals too. And this is not a bad thing at all.

READ MORE - SLS / SLES in Lush {Ingredient}

Kat Burki’s Natural Body Cremes and Organic Soaps {Product Information}

After a long day perfecting our tans at the beach, our sun-kissed skin can often become sensitive, dry and damaged.  Even simple tasks such as taking a shower or wearing tight fitting clothes can suddenly become extremely uncomfortable or even painful. But, thankfully, you can achieve gorgeous golden-brown without the dry, flaky skin. Kat Burki’s organic soaps and moisturizers use the finest all-natural ingredients to soothe, moisturize and ease the effects on the skin from a day spent baking in the sun. 

Skin exposed to the sun in the summer needs all of the therapy it can get, so make sure to start in the shower with a natural therapeutic soap and continue through the day with soothing moisturizers for preventative and soothing effects.  And what better way to treat your skin than to let it seep in all of the natural benefits of these 3 soothing flavors by Kat Burki, custom designed to bring maximum benefits to just about every skin type:

1) Indulge in the soothing benefits of White Tea Soap and Body Crème with its subtle, soft fragrance incorporating soothing scents of pine, mandarin, palmarosa, white-tea extract and oils of olive, coconut, and palm. White tea is packed with even more anti-oxidants than green tea to keep skin healthy and youthful while the delicious scent will soothe the senses leaving you feeling refreshed and relaxed.      

White Tea Organic Soap ($18.00)
White Tea Body Crème (6oz. $52.00 or 2oz. $15.00)

2) Ignite your skin’s freshness with Freesia and Pink Grapefruit, another delicious summery scent which will leave you feeling clean, fresh and smelling delicious for those lovely, long summer nights. Grapefruit is renowned for its anti-oxidant properties and its scent is known to invigorate the mind and awaken the senses. The perfect pick-me up after a hot summer day.

Freesia and Pink Grapefruit Organic Soap ($18.00)
Freesia and Pink Grapefruit Crème (6oz. $52.00 or 2oz. $15.00)

3) The airy combination of Avocado and Cucumber is the perfect scent for skin suffering from sunburn or heat rash. Cucumber has long been recognized for its incredible cooling effects while avocado is a rich moisturizer. The combination will instantly cool down and moisturize skin while its enchantingly elegantly crisp and clean scent will have you so relaxed you’ll quickly forget about any discomfort you were once in!

Avocado and Cucumber Body Creme (6oz. $52.00 or 2oz. $15.00) 

Avocado and Cucumber Organic Soap ($18.00)

No matter how minimal or extreme your skin is suffering from sun damage this summer, Kat Burki organic soaps and body crèmes are the perfect remedy to leave skin feeling refreshed and moisturized during these hot, hazy summer months.

About Kat Burki: Kat Burki products are designed for the chic individual to relax and unwind with her clean, soothing and sophisticated scents of candles, soaps and cream’s made from the finest natural ingredients which are carefully selected and fine-tuned by Kat Burki herself. The full Kat Burki Collection is available online at www.katburki.com.

PS: Information sent by PR.

READ MORE - Kat Burki’s Natural Body Cremes and Organic Soaps {Product Information}

Dermalogica Skin Renewal Booster {Product Launch}

Dermalogica launches Skin Renewal Booster

PS: Information sent by the brand.

READ MORE - Dermalogica Skin Renewal Booster {Product Launch}

Biotique Carrot Protective Lotion {Product Review}

I have already said that I am a fan of Biotique products but the 'fanhood' is limited to some ranges only. So, I was and have been since a really long time in search of a herbal sun screen which is equally effective and less harmful as compared to its chemical counterparts. I have already used the sandalwood one from Biotique too. So, I'll just review both of them together.

Price: 280 INR for 210 ml

Ingredients

How do 1% and 3% ingredients do their work??

My Experience

I have same thing to say about both the sunscreens. They both are really effective when it comes to protection. But, the main problem arises when you apply. I found them really sticky and in case you are living in a humid climate, these are definitely not for you coz your skin will just feel sticky and damp and oily. But, I have applied this lotion in hills too where I found that the lotion did not feel sticky at all. It got absorbed very easily into the skin and it protected well from the sun which was surely never a question. But, these sunscreens are strictly for the body and not for face. I did make a mistake of using them again and again on face but they just make the face oily but they work well there too. So, if you have really dry skin or staying in really cold climate, you can definitely use this in place of a moisturizer and a sunscreen. Otherwise, I just wish they had not been that sticky and I would have been really glad to use them. 

The one question I always have for Biotique products is that what it the base cream which they use??? Does that come under the listing process of Biotique or they just buy the base material and make their own Ayurvedic formulations on top of the base material because of which they do not have to list down the ingredients of their base material. And, also, how can a product stay for so long as 3 years without any preservatives or does the base material come with preservatives too. I would definitely love an answer for that. But, their products do work (some don't though)!!

My Recommendation

Kinda tricky coz I would love to recommend it as a safer sunscreen but its pretty sticky for most of the skin types. So, in case you are a dry skin type or live in colder climates (only in hill stations and not winters in Delhi), this might work out.

READ MORE - Biotique Carrot Protective Lotion {Product Review}

Baviphat Paprika Whitening Hand Cream {Product Review}

Baviphat is a very popular brand in Malaysia and Singapore and Korea too. Its a Korean company. So, this was one of the goodies I won in a giveaway I mentioned sometime back. I have no idea about the price or ingredients list coz my pack didn't mention any.

My Experience

I love the small yellow capsicum tub and the smell of this cream is even more awesome though I can't really describe it. I have never used a hand cream before so I am not gonna give a comparison account but I'll say that it is very non-sticky and gets easily absorbed into the skin. I hate the creams which make my hand sticky and almost all do that so I avoid applying any cream and I am used to often washing my hands. Its a phobia with me but since I have started using this cream, my hands are comparatively softer and don't get dried up as they used to. And, this cream also moisturizes my nails and cuticles. So, yup, this one is a great product but unfortunately not available in India. But, they do have a website but its in Korean!!! Check it out here.

My Recommendation
Oh!! yes, definitely!!! And, I guess its a drug store brand so its not outrageously expensive or something.

READ MORE - Baviphat Paprika Whitening Hand Cream {Product Review}

Lakme Perfect Radiance Fairness Facewash {Product Review}

This is one of my few products from Lakme. I am not much fan of it but then who can resist interesting colors and new products. So, the color of the packaging is really nice. 

Price: 80 INR for 50 gms

Ingredients

My Experience

This is a normal face wash. Foams a lot so a tiny bit is enough. I have a combination skin and this one doesn't really dry the skin nor does it make it oily but the oil returns within an hour of washing the face so not much help there. Regarding the fairness claim, I would say that it instantly brightens the face and the brightening effect doesn't really go away so if you regularly use it, you might find the face is little brightened. But, as to the fairness claim, it doesn't really lighten the skin tone in case you are wondering. And, it doesn't even remove tanning which is even worse. So, it is a normal face wash which can be used without much expectations and it is costlier than the other brands like Ponds and Himalaya so one can give it a skip too. 

One positive thing about this face wash is that it doesn't have SLS / SLES which is a good thing but it really foams a lot so if you are looking for a less foamy face wash, this wouldn't be of much help. Btw, another great thing is that it doesn't leave any film on the skin like some cleansers and face washes. And, I have stayed without applying moisturizer in a humid place for almost two weeks without applying any moisturizer and my face didn't really feel dry or stretchy. 

A very big disadvantage is that it is not travel-friendly. No, I am not talking about the size but the face wash leaks!!! Yeah, I did realize it when I saw that the face wash was coming on to the cap and some of it was oozing outside and then I had to keep it in a plastic cover to save my other things but that's a very big disadvantage for people who travel constantly. Well, this might be just my face wash problem or this might apply to the entire packaging which I am not too sure. 

My Recommendation

You are not missing out something if you pass on this one.

READ MORE - Lakme Perfect Radiance Fairness Facewash {Product Review}

Episoft Cleanser {Product Review}

This post is more of a recommendation than a review. 

I don't have a HG face wash so I do keep experimenting and if someone asks me to recommend some, I would say Episoft cleanser which I have used and have discontinued using coz of its cost and availability issues but it is really good and better than Cetaphil actually and I am speaking for this coz I have used both of them and have seen the difference. So, in case you are in search of a good face wash, you can try it out. 

Regarding the cost, both cetaphil and Episoft cost the same. 

The cleanser is really light weight and non-greasy and leaves the skin just as it is (not dry or oil but clean). I have compared their ingredient lists too and did find that the Episoft ingredient list was better and gentler. And, comparing the cleansers, Episoft is gentler. I have used some 2-3 bottles of this cleanser on and off where as I have used Cetaphil only once and never went back to it. 

Regarding the availability, you can ask for it at Apollo pharmacy and they will definitely get it for you in case you do not get it at other drug stores. They might or might not have stocked it so that it a hitch in being regular with this cleanser. 

One more thing I would add is that I had this cleanser prescribed by a dermatologist whom I didn't much like and she had prescribed this one for my dry skin problem on my hands which had developed weird dry patches. When I used this cleanser over those patches, the condition normalized gradually in sometime so I can safely say that it is a damn good cleanser for people with such issues.

READ MORE - Episoft Cleanser {Product Review}

Biotique Avocado Body Massage Oil {Product Review}

So, confusion about the ingredients in Biotique products has always existed. Similarly, it exists with this one too.

Price:135 INR for 210 ml

Ingredients

Rai Tail (0.5%), Badam Tail (1%), Neem Tail (0.5%), Til Tail (5%), Arandi Tail (7%) [castor oil], Dudhal Mool Kwath (1%), Ankurit Gehun Satva (2%) [Wheat Germ Oil], Vegetable Oil (Base)

As you can see above, there is no mention of avocado any where in the ingredient list and whats up with vegetable oil??? Which vegetable oil or is there some standard oil called 'Vegetable Oil'? When I searched for it, the wiki gives a list of oils which includes almost every edible oil. 

My Experience

This smells mainly of camphor. No camphor in the ingredient list. The oil feels cool on the body as opposed to warm being a massage oil which I am not sure if it is meant to feel like that. There is no drawback as such but I did not like the oil very much and I wouldn't really recommend it to anyone for any purpose.

My Recommendation

Doesn't make sense to write this review coz I don't really have anything to say about the product but I have written it coz I wouldn't recommend any one to buy this one coz it really does nothing frankly so its a waste of money. You can probably go for carrot oil in place of this though I haven't used that one and I have no idea how it is.

READ MORE - Biotique Avocado Body Massage Oil {Product Review}

Lotus Herbals Pomegranate and Plum Skin Polisher {Product Launch}

Ok, so I am late in putting this up. So, here it is and I have been eying this since it came. 

What does Lotus say about it?

If you are looking for a gentler way to scrub your skin and get that youthful appearance, look no further! Lotus Herbals has introduced Pomegranate & Plum Energizing Skin Polisher that ensures smooth, flawless and younger skin. This innovative skin polisher protects from pollution, dust and exposure to the harsh rays of the sun and helps in restoring the natural glow of the skin.

Lotus Herbals Pomegranate & Plum Energizing Skin Polisher is enriched with active ingredients such as pomegranate, which has skin renewal properties that help increase collagen and plum that infuses powerful anti oxidants into the skin, making it soft and supple. It contains ultra fine granules that are non-abrasive and gently rejuvenate the skin by removing dead skin cells. This skin polisher therapeutically exfoliates and cleanses the skin of toxins and other impurities while protecting against environmental pollutants. Suitable for all skin types, its deep detoxification re-energizes the skin, reduces fine lines and offers wrinkle protection. Now regenerate your skin to a new level of vitality for a more youthful, healthy and radiant appearance, all day long.

Lotus Herbals Pomegranate & Plum Energizing Skin Polisher is attractively priced at Rs 155 for 50gms and Rs 245 for 100 gms and is available at leading beauty and departmental stores across the country.

Now add a breath of fresh air to dull, tired skin by making this luxurious skin polisher a part of your skin care regime!

PS: Press Release sent by the brand. 

READ MORE - Lotus Herbals Pomegranate and Plum Skin Polisher {Product Launch}

Svaztha Neelini Natural Hair Oil {Product Review}

Svaztha is a ayurvedic brand. Check out their website here. They have a whole range pf products and are widely available in Kerela. I used this hair oil when I went to my relatives house and I have used it just twice but it was just so awesome that I have to write about it. I don't know about the price.

Ingredients

Indigofera tinctoria (400mg), Aloe vera (400mg), Hebiscus rosa (100mg), Eclipta alba (650mg), Emblica officinalis (350 mg), Azadirachta indica (100 mg), Cow milk (1ml), Seasamum oil (1ml), Pongamia pinnata (3.75mg), Psoralea corylifolia (3.75mg), Terminalia belerica (5mg) - from the website

My Experience

Since I have used it only twice, I don;t know whether it promotes hair growth or not but one thing which is noticeable immediately is that it makes the hair really soft. I mean it literally. It made my hair unbelievably soft. And, it did not induce any hair fall which happens sometimes with some of the products when used for the first time. My hair is definitely a lot softer even after a week of using the hair oil and that does mean something, right?? So, if you are planning a visit to Kerela, do check out the brand and its products. Don't worry about the availability. They are present in every shop. 

My Recommendation

Do I really need to say anything???

PS: The best part of this oil is that it was able to soften my hair which had got really rough when I had colored my hair two months back. And, now my hair is soft again!!! Yay!!!!!

READ MORE - Svaztha Neelini Natural Hair Oil {Product Review}

The Body Shop Aqua Lily Body Mist {Product Review}

I bought this one at 20% discount recently in May.

Price: 545 INR for 100ml

My Experience

Since this is a body mist, it has 75% Denat Alcohol. I have applied it both on bare skin and on the clothes and even though it has so much concentration of alcohol, I didn't find it drying my skin. Before I review this, I would say that I can't take strong smells. They give me instant headaches. So, when I first used it, I hated the smell coz I found it was too strong for my taste and instantly regretted wasting all that money. But, gradually, I started using it just to finish it and I found that though it is an artificial smell, it does relieve you when you are tired. It has a refreshing smell and one gradually tends to like it. But, a very big con with this one is that it doesn't stay for more than 3-4 hours. One has to either spritz it again or spritz it so strong in one go only that it becomes difficult to handle the smell. But, otherwise, it is worth a try!!!

My Recommendation

Do spritz it in the shop and decide whether you like it or not before buying it. I was in a hurry and chose this just on the basis of its name but I am not regretting it, though. But, yup, it is definitely costly coz I wouldn't say that bottle will last more than a month for one who uses it regularly.

READ MORE - The Body Shop Aqua Lily Body Mist {Product Review}

The Body Shop Olive Body Scrub {Product Review}

You can love it or hate it!!!

Price: 300 INR for smaller tub (approx.) (I got it at 50% sale)

Ingredients

I have the smaller tub and I guess ingredients are not listed on it.

My Experience

The first thing you notice is its smell. Its bad :( The scrub is a gross green in color and is not runny at all which is good. It has apparently apricot granules and they are not scratchy or harsh like in their Spiced Vanilla Scrub. Except for its smell, its actually a really nice scrub though it might feel a little mild for some people on the body especially on the areas of thighs and hips where there is more of fat. It makes the skin really soft and supple. It does not dry the skin out but you should always follow scrubbing with a moisturizer. And, it keeps your skin soft for 2-3 days easily. 

A big disappointment I faced with TBS scrubs are that they get over really soon and when you are paying such high prices for a product you do expect 10 washes out of it at least. So, that's a con. A very big problem also arises due to the fact that the product gets stuck on the lid and the screw area of the lid. Its sold in the tubs (big and small) so a little of water does enter every time you use the scrub which is pretty unhygienic if a lot of people put their hands in the tub.

My Recommendation

Yes. It will suit the normal to dry skin and even sensitive skin. It is gentle enough for that but kindly keep away from the face. A bit harsh for it.

READ MORE - The Body Shop Olive Body Scrub {Product Review}