Skintillating: 5 Steps To Beautiful Skin

Step 1: Clean It Right


Clean skin is the core of beautiful skin.And if you think cleaning simply means washing your face then you're wrong.Cleaning is a more exhaustive process than just washing your face and cleaning it right is the first step towards achieving a glowing skin.Here's how you should go about it:

1. Remove all traces of make-up by using a good quality cleanser to avoid damaging your skin.I recommend Liz Earle Cleanse And Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser.
2. Avoid using too hot or too cold water.Instead use lukewarm water.It will not only help open the pores for deeper cleansing but also loosen up dirt and oil. 
3. Use mild cleansers or face washes that are soap free and non-comedogenic.My favourite cleanser these days is the L'oreal Hydrating Gel Face Wash and Cetaphil.
4. Avoid harsh rubbing or massaging.Use a light hand.
5. Rinse face thoroughly to remove all residue of cleanser which might clog your pores.  
6. Always pat dry with a soft, non-abrasive towel instead of rubbing. 

Step 2: Moisturize As If Your Life Depends On It


A well hydrated skin speaks volume and you cannot expect your face to be moisturized automatically.Obviously you will have to make efforts to ensure that your skin is well moisturized and supple.Most people with oily or combination skin think that they don't need to moisturize since their skin will automatically secrete oil to moisturize itself.Well they are wrong.Moisturizing is very important irrespective of your skin type.And here's why:

While cleansing helps in removing dirt, grime, oil and dead skin cells, it also strips the skin of it's natural moisture and natural oil.Plus exposure to the sun causes the skin to dry, discolour, freckle, and wrinkle.Moisturizers help to not only increase the skin's water content, but they also help in protecting the skin and encourage an orderly skin shedding process that makes the skin appear more smooth.

So now that you know the importance of moisturizers in your skin care regimen it's essential to understand which kind of moisturizer you need.If you have dry skin use moisturizers that are rich in emollients.My favourite being Johnson's Baby Cream.It's gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin but packs a hell of a moisturizing prowess too.

If you have combination/ oily skin look for the words light, water-based, oil free on the moisturizers.Since the humid season triggers my oil glands to the max I prefer using water based moisturizers like Emolene or Emoderm.They are great at replenishing the lost moisturize without being too oily.

Always apply moisturizer to clean damp skin.Apply small dots all over and then massage the moisturizer into your skin using gentle circular motions.Wait for 5 minutes and wipe off any excess using a tissue.And remember sunscreen is not a substitute for moisturizer.Both have different purpose and such should be applied separately and not substituted for each other. 

Step 3: Pamper Once In A While


Your skin takes in a load of crap in the form of sun exposure, skin treatments not to mention crazy experiments, so it's always a good idea to show your appreciation by pampering your skin once in a while.And by pampering I don't mean expensive spa session.Whip up tasty skin treats in the comfort of your home or try the plethora of face packs available in the market.

You could also try various chemical peel treatments using natural ingredients at home.Read these DIY tips on Chemical Peels at home:

 Chemical Peels At Home Part 1
Chemical Peels At Home Part 2: Glycolic Acid Peels
Chemical Peels At Home Part 3: Salicylic Acid Peels

A well cared, rested and pampered skin always shines through.

Step 4: Don't Overkill


Too much of anything is almost always bad and that includes skin care.Cleansing, scrubbing, toning, moisturizing are essential parts of your skin care but don't go all overboard.Too much cleansing can strip your skin of natural oils leaving skin dry while vigorous scrubbing will definitely help you get rid of the dreaded dead skin but at the cost of scraped skin .Excessive scrubbing can actually wear away your skin the same as if you took a sheet of sandpaper to it.

Toners though great at helping to tighten pores can also dry out your skin if not used in moderation because they contain alcohol, astringents and other drying ingredients.And though I did say moisturize as if your life depends on it, too much moisturizer will clog your pores trapping dirt, grime and bacteria leading to acne.

So don't get too carried away with your skincare regime and, by all means, don't overkill.

Step 5: Steer Clear Of The Unnecessary

 
The market is flooded with a plethora of unnecessary skin care products that are a nothing but beauty scams.And the biggest of these is the fairness cream.Skin colour is genetic and no product can change that.The moment you embrace this simple fact, you are one step closer to achieving beautiful skin because you learn to love and respect your skin for what it is.Most of these so called fairness creams and lotions contain bleaching agents which might harm your skin.Instead invest in good quality sunscreen.

Another farce in the name of miracle skincare products is Age Reversing Skincare products.I mean common who the hell are they kidding.Aging is an irreversible process and no cream can change it. Which brings me to the king of the unnecessary: cosmetic procedures.

Blame it on the evergreen lust for beauty which will make us females go to any and all lengths, often trading in common sense for dangerous procedures to look more beautiful.To be honest these do work but to a certain extent.And the dangers of such procedures far outweigh the advantages.Chemical peels done using harmful and dangerous chemicals can most often lead to infection, scarring, pigment problems and redness. Scientists found that popular anti-wrinkle treatment with Botox can pose serious health risks as the toxin may spread from face to the brain.
Beauty has been and will always be skin deep.So respect your skin and steer clear of the unnecessary.

I hope this post proves helpful in your quest for beautiful skin.Please comment and tell me your secrets to beautiful skin.

Read More

My Take: Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser

What It Claims
A  multi award winning concentrated cleanser with two phase action to quickly remove daily grime , makeup (including stubborn waterproof mascara) leaving skin soft, smooth and radiant.
This plant-based cleanser has a 2-phase action, phase 1 is the cleansing. Free from mineral oil, it has a rich and creamy texture and swiftly removes all traces of face and eye make-up.
Phase 2 is the polishing. Polish off the cream using the pure muslin cloth, made from 100% cotton, to help gently dislodge dead skin cells and help reveal clean, soft and radiant skin.
Suitable for all age and skin types.
 
Directions For Use

1. Fill a basin with hand hot water.
2. Apply 1 or 2 pumps of Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser onto dry skin and use your fingertips to gently massage the cream over your face and neck.Work in circular movements from the centre of your face outwards.Massage over your eyelids and eyelashes to avoid spreading eye makeup over your face.
3. Rinse the pure muslin cloth in hand hot water and wring it out so it's damp not wet.
4. Use the muslin cloth to wipe off the cream using a clean section for each part of your face.Place a single finger inside the cloth to thoroughly clean more awkward areas such as around the nose.Be gentle around your eye zone when removing eye makeup.Rinse the cloth thoroughly during cleansing.
5. Rinse your skin with cool water and carefully pat dry using a soft towel.Rinse the muslin cloth thoroughly and allow it to air dry naturally.
6. Follow this routine morning and night then use Instant  Boost Skin Tonic before massaging in Skin Repair or Superskin Moisturizer to finish.

Muslin Cloth Care:To keep your cloths fresh and clean pop into a 40 degree white wash after every 2-3 uses, allow to air dry naturally.

Ingredients

Naturally active ingredients include Rosemary, Chamomile, Cocoa Butter and Eucalyptus Essential Oil.

Does not contain animal ingredients, genetically engineered ingredients or mineral oils.

Price 

• 100ml pump starter kit(containing 2 pure muslin cloths and a zip-up kit bag)  £13.25
• 100ml pump £11.75
• 100ml pump x 3 £32.25
• 200ml tube starter kit (containing 2 pure muslin cloths and a zip-up kit bag) £23.45
• 200ml tube £21.95
• Pure muslin cloths x 2 £3.55

Available at www.lizearle.com

The Good

• The best thing about this cleanser is the simple concept behind it: Hot Cloth Cleanser.It imbibes the best of cleansing and scrubbing by combining the cleansing cream with muslin cloth.The cleanser basically loosens up dirt and makeup while the muslin cloth effectively removes it, which is brilliant in it's simplicity.
• The formula is very gentle on the skin and feels light on the skin.In fact the product is gentle enough to be used twice a day without any problems.
• The cleanser is really concentrated so you need very little.One to two pumps is more than enough to cover your face and neck.

• Even though the cleanser is thick it spreads easily and does not leave your face oily.
• Despite the cleanser being a bit on the greasier side it did not cause any breakouts which I was afraid of the first time I used it.
• It leaves face super clean and well hydrated without the stretchy feeling left behind by facial cleansers or soap.
• It works as an excellent makeup remover.
• It smells wonderful and refreshing.At first I couldn't quite place the strong spicy note to it until it reminded me of the oil that is put on your palm before applying mehendi.And that's when it struck me that the spicy note is eucalyptus.
• Love the exotic ingredient list, specially because everything is natural and organic and lately I've been leaning towards greener products.
• The muslin cloth is simply awesome, the moment you dip it in water it becomes really soft but yet it manages to polish/exfoliate effectively.Easy to use, clean and dries in a jiffy.
• The pump packaging comes in very handy.It dispenses the right amount of product without any wastage and plus is hygienic.

• Hurray for no animal testing.

The Bad

• Although it works great for my normal/combination skin, the polishing part might be a bit harsh for sensitive skin.In which case the muslin cloth should be skipped and the cleanser can be rinsed with warm water instead.
• The benefits of this wonderful cleanser comes with a heavy price tag, but considering you need a little amount it does prove to be economical in the long run.
• The muslin cloth has to be cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria infestation which is kinda tiring.
• Only available online.I really wish it were more accessible.A lot of people get turned off by online shopping and in this case they would be missing out something really good.

Love It Or Chuck It
The answer is a simple Love It and can't imagine skincare without it.It takes care of cleansing and exfoliation in one simple step.I do use a scrub once in a while but lately that has become rare.After a hard day at work, I use the cleanser to pamper my skin and it removes every last bit of dirt and makeup.It prepares your skin for makeup by making skin super soft and supple and the foundation sticks better to your skin.Before I started using it I relied on Olive Oil and a Washcloth for some cleansing action but now there's no way that I'm going back.I'm addicted hook, line and sinker.

The first step is always the hardest and the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser takes care of that excellently.At the end of the day it is totally worth all the hoopla that it has garnered in the beauty blogging world.

For more information on Liz Earle check out my post: Peek-A-Boo: Goodies From Liz Earle
And for information on the Daily Essentials Range read: Introducing Daily Essentials From Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare

Please comment, I would love to know your HG when it comes to cleansers.

Disclaimer: Product sent by PR for review.Read Review Policy for more information.

Read More

My Take: Jordana Blush in Sandalwood

What It Claims

• Colour-True Tints for Cheeks
• Face Looks Youthful & Refreshed
• Accentuates, Sculpts & Contours
• Velvety-Smooth Formula Blends Easily

    
Price
$2.49 for 2.2gm @ Cherry Culture

The Colour
Sandalwood id a beautiful matte powdery pink that looks very natural when applied.

The Good

• It's the perfect shade for my complexion(medium-fair).I'm happy I picked up Sandalwood specially since I didn't physically swatch it.But Sandalwood had a lot of good reviews and my hunch paid off.
• It's matte with absolutely no glitter or shimmer which works perfectly for day.
• The price is pretty economical.
• The colour pay off is good.You don't need oodles of product in order to show up on the cheeks.A couple of swirls is enough to get those flushed cheeks if you are fair complexioned.  
• The powder is very fine, very similar in texture to pressed powder so it blends really easily(as claimed).
• The packaging is simple, no fuss with a screw top lid.
• This blush is great for newbie's who neither want to spend a lot on blushes nor have the expertise to apply one.It's easy to apply and because of the colour no matter what you do you will never end up with clown cheeks.
• A good colour selection with a variety of shades, 17 to be precise.   

The Bad

• The powder texture though perfect for people with oily skin may be a little too drying if you have dry skin.
• The staying power is not that great.It only lasts around a couple of hours in humid weather.
• Jordana products are not easily available in India, which is too bad considering how awesome and inexpensive they are.You can buy them online at Cherry Culture but that means you have to guess swatch most of the shades and all the other cons of online shopping.

Love It Or Chuck It


I actually bought this almost a year back and since then it has become my go to blush whenever I'm confused or in a hurry.It has never let me down.When I first came across the brand I had my doubts about it since the prices were really low.But the brand gives cheap a whole new meaning.Agreed this is the only product I have tried but I always believed that blushes and foundations are two products that can make or break a brand.And Jordana has won fair and square.I'm planning on hoarding more shades and I have my eyes on Coral Sandy Beach, Tawny Beige and Terracotta.And definitely a backup for Sandalwood.If you have access to the brand don't hesitate in buying, this will be the best purchase you'll ever make.
Update: Jordana products are available at http://www.coollifeshop.com .Haven't tried the website yet but it's an Indian web-store with cod option and discounts on Jordana products.

Read More

Introducing Daily Essentials From Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare

We've been drilled with the mantra "cleanse, tone, moisturize" and yet we fail to adhere to it.Maybe it's laziness, maybe it's ignorance but mostly it's because you've not got the right products.And I hope that's where this introduction will come in handy.

About a couple of months back I received Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser and fell in love instantly even though I used it sporadically.And then a few weeks back I received the other two products in the same range: Instant Boost Skin Tonic and the Skin Repair Moisturizer.So I decided to give the whole "cleanse, tone, moisturize" routine a spin and see what the drama was all about.And a week later I'm happy to conclude that it's the best thing that has happened to my skin in a long while.

My skin has gone totally rogue on me these past few weeks and I had been using lots of medicated ointments and creams.I was bored, my skin was bored.And the Daily Essentials managed to boost my boredom while helping with my skin conditions.All the products smell heavenly and work like magic.Not once have I had any adverse reactions to the skin.These are so mild and gentle on my skin.Calling it Daily Essentials is apt as these three products can be the whole and soul of your daily skin care routine. I've been using this range exclusively for the last one week twice a day(afternoon and night) and I'm totally hooked.

So I'd like to introduce this amazing range that has made me a believer in the goodness of Cleansing, Toning and moisturizing.Ladies I give you Daily Essentials:

Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser


This is a  multi award winning concentrated cleanser with two phase action quickly remove daily grime , makeup (including stubborn waterproof mascara) leaving skin soft, smooth and radiant.

This plant-based cleanser has a 2-phase action, phase 1 is the cleansing. Free from mineral oil, it has a rich and creamy texture and swiftly removes all traces of face and eye make-up.

Phase 2 is the polishing. Polish off the cream using the pure muslin cloth, made from 100% cotton, to help gently dislodge dead skin cells and help reveal clean, soft and radiant skin.

Naturally active ingredients include eucalyptus and cocoa butter for smoother, clearer skin.
Suitable for all age and skin types.

 Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser Awards

Price: 100ml starter kit (with 2 muslin cloths) £13.25

Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic


This heavenly floral-scented, non-drying toner refreshes, soothes and brightens your skin. Gentle and alcohol-free, it also adds a fine layer of moisture.

Pour onto a cotton wool pad and sweep over face and neck after using Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. Alternatively spritz over face and body to revitalise at any time.

Naturally active ingredients include organic aloe vera to revitalise and soften and calendula, chamomile, cucumber and natural source vitamin E to soothe and refresh the skin.

Suitable for all skin types
 

Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic Awards

Price: 200ml bottle £11.75

Skin Repair Moisturiser™ Normal/combination

This perfectly balanced moisturiser softens, smoothes and conditions skin for a naturally healthy glow.
Rich in natural actives, including borage oil (a rich source of the essential fatty acid GLA) and natural antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin E to replace lost moisture and help protect normal/combination skin.

Massage into face and neck, morning and night, after Instant Boost Skin Tonic.

Naturally active ingredients include borage and avocado oil to intensively moisturise, smooth and protect.

Suitable for normal/combination skin.
 

Skin Repair Moisturiser™ Normal/combination Awards

Price: 50ml jar £17.60

Apart from great products, Liz Earle has an awesome Customer Service and I simply love their attention to detail.Every product is wrapped and packed with love and care.And they also send a note telling you that they have checked the products they are sending and that they follow stringent quality regulations.It just makes you wanna shop with them over and over again.All their products are made from natural ingredients and are cruelty free.I can't wait to try out more products.

You can read more about Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare in my post: Peek-A-Boo: Goodies From Liz Earle.

I'll give you my take on each product in the coming weeks since each one deserves a dedicated review.Feel free to check their website for other amazing products.They frequently have offers and discounts which are worth checking out.Here's the link:
http://uk.lizearle.com

Currently they  have a summer skincare essentials offer where you'll receive a free Skin-Savers Kit when you buy your three daily essentials this summer. Plus, you can choose whether your Instant Boost Skin Tonic comes in the traditional 200ml bottle or the refreshing 200ml spritzer.
Click on the image for more details or visit their website.


This take-everywhere Skin-Savers Kit features four refreshing and uplifting minis for healthy-looking skin on-the-go. It’s botanical salvation in your handbag.

Price: £41 and is available in Normal/combination, Dry/Sensitive and combination/Oily variants.

Disclaimer: Product sent by PR for review.Read Review Policy for more information.

Read More

BnB's Anniversary Celebrations: A Baggy Giveaway

It's really hard to believe that Beauty And The Blog has completed it's first anniversary today.The last year has been totally kickass.BnB has now become an indispensible part of my life and so have my beautiful readers.

So it's time to return the love that BnB has been getting for the last year and what better way than to giveaway.Since I'm super duper excited about the whole thing I plan on having a month long celebration with this being the first giveaway.

I could have given away makeup since that's what most of us are obsessed with, but like always I wanted to giveaway something hatke so I specially ordered these bags from Korea to share my appreciation and love with all my readers.And the best part is that there will be 2 winners.

Here's what you can win:

  Black Handbag With A Plaid Flap, White Trim and Black Shoulder Strap(inside)

 OR

Grey Handbag With a Faux Fur Trim and Chainmail Shoulder Strap

To Enter Do As Directed:

• Like this giveaway on Facebook  (+1 entry)
• Become a Facebook Fan of Beauty And The Blog  (+1 entry)
• Leave a comment below telling me what do you love the most about Beauty And The Blog  (+1 entry)
• Tweet about the giveaway (+1 entry)
• Write about the giveaway(on your blog or facebook), including the first image and a unique invite link to the giveaway (+1 entry for each friend that visits the giveaway and +5 entries for each friend that joins the giveaway)

Terms And Conditions:

• You must have a Facebook account to enter the giveaway.
• There will be two winners picked via www.punchtab.com. The winners will be notified by email and have 48 hours to reply with their mailing address or else another winner will be picked.
• The giveaway is open worldwide and will end on 24th August 2011 midnight ( GMT+5:30)
• The giveaway is open only to individuals who are 18 years of age or older or have parental consent if they are less than 18 years of age. 
• The prizes are brand new and have been purchased by me for the sole purpose of the giveaway.

I know the posts have dwindled lately but that's cause I have too much stuff on my plate these days.I'm working on it and soon I'll be able to post more regularly.In the meantime join in the celebrations and have fun.
All the best!!!

UPDATE 24.08.11:Winners announced on facebook.Megha Mehtab and Angie.Congratulations!

Read More

Freshly Shopped: Ed Hardy Love Kills Slowly Sequin Tote From Vogue Magnet

Judging by my current (and I might add unhealthy) obsession with bags, my worst fear is that I might end up a crazy old bag lady(yeah seriously, I bought 12 bags in the last couple of months).But who can resist the temptation when its wrapped up Ed Hardy style, tattoo n all.I had been wanting(nay craving) to buy an Ed Hardy bag for the longest time, but unfortunately didn't have the access or the heart to shell out that kinda mullah.And then some one up above heard my wistful prayers in the form of Vogue Magnet, a paradise for brand lovers like me who hesitate shelling out big money on big brands.And that's how I laid my hands on the gorgeous Ed Hardy Sequin Tote, with the famous "Love Kills Slowly" tattoo style graphic.

The front of the bag is embellished with all-over sequins, with the Love Kills Slowly Insignia.The detailing on the skull is fantastic.

   The Back is imprinted with the Ed Hardy Logo.

Interior features signature satin lining, zip pocket and 2 open pockets 

The bag came in a black satin drawstring which is great for storing the bag when not in use.

 

Dimensions: 17" Width x 14-1/2" Height x 1/2" Depth

Price: Rs 6750 retail and Rs 2800 at Vogue Magnet (which translates to a whopping 40% discount)

The bag is made of Polyester and PVC with sequins, has a double shoulder straps with 10-1/2" drop and magnetic snap closure. And though the bag looks huge and sturdy it's actually very delicate.The shoulder straps are really narrow and won't hold a lot of weight.But I love it nevertheless.The gothic graphic combined with the size works perfectly.

I placed a Cash On Delivery Order on the 1st of July and received the package on 13th of July.

About Vogue Magnet
“Vogue Magnet is the newest flash sale e-commerce company in India! Our mission is to bring to our members the latest fashion and lifestyle products straight from the streets of New York, LA, and other fashion capitals of the world. Some of the brands that we offer are currently not sold anywhere else in India. We handpick the best styles and the latest fashions and bring them to you at incredible prices. Why wait in long lines and fight traffic for a limited selection at the malls at high prices? Visit VM from the comfort of your home and let us bring the world of fashion to your doorstep.”

On the oust Vogue Magnet appears to be just like any other membership-based luxury shopping website with daily sales.But there's so much more to them.Shopping online should be as much fun as shopping in the mall and Vogue Magnet ensures that by bringing amazing deals and great brands to you while you are comfortably perched in front of your computer.

Here's why I'm going gaga about them:

• Vogue Magnet offers amazing designer brands at unbelievable discounts(up to 70% according to the website).
• Free shipping within India.
• Great customer service.They called me up to confirm my order and to let me know when I should expect the parcel.First time that ever happened. 
• Parcels sent via Blue Dart with tracking available. 
• Cash On Delivery option at no extra cost.Great news for those of you who don't have credit cards or are too scared to use them online. 
• Flexible return policy.

The only chink in their shiny armour is that there is a lack of choices.There are usually 2-3 sales occurring per day and most of them have limited options and stock.Most of what I liked got sold out really fast.Hopefully they'll add more goodies to their stock in the future.

So I hope I have piqued your curiosity.If not then I have an added bonus.Head over to their website and use the following invite to get Rs 250 credited on your first purchase from Vogue Magnet.
http://www.voguemagnet.com/invi_regis/Sonia/NzU5MTMxMzA5Mjc2MTg1

Disclaimer: I used a discount voucher to purchase from Vogue Magnet, though the review constitutes my honest opinion.Read Review Policy for more information.

Read More

My Take: Nature’s Brilliance By Sue Eye Colours

What It Claims
You can read more about Nature’s Brilliance By Sue and their amazing line of all natural products in my review here.

Price
$6 for 0.35oz, currently on sale for $5
You can also use the Coupon Code SONIAK10 for an additional 10% Discount.

Ingredients
Mica, Iron Oxide, Titanium Dioxide.Matte shades contain Serecite (uncoloured mica).


 The Good

• Love the fact that it’s called eye colours, since it’s a versatile powder and can be used as eye shadow, eye liner, or just to add another dimension to your existing eye makeup.
• Extremely pigmented.Plum Midnight Lustre is more on the glittery side and even then the colour shines through whereas the Green Midnight Lustre is a deep leaf green with a soft sheen.
• Applies like a dream.The powder is very creamy(sounds weird I know but you have to see it to believe it) and can easily be applied either with a brush or fingers.
• The best thing about these eye colours is that these are great for lining your eyes.And that too without wetting them.The powder is so creamy that you can easily use an angled liner brush to apply as a liner and the product stays put.

   Green Midnight Lustre applied as an eyeliner

• No fading or creasing, but make sure you apply a thin layer of product.And lasts a good 4-5 hours without a primer.
• These eye colours come in different finishes which makes it all the more versatile.The ones I have, have a lustre finish.
• Since you need a really tiny amount of product because it’s so pigmented, the price is very economical for the quantity you get.
• It’s 100% natural and organic and is very safe.In fact this was the only product I was using while I had a mild eye allergy and not once did it sting or irritate.
• There was hardly any fallout.I suppose that’s because it has a very smooth and creamy texture and it instantly sticks to the skin.Just make sure you tap out excess product before applying. 
• Can be applied dry or wet and both give a very different effect and finish.
• Normally sifters are pretty irksome, dispensing too little or too much product, but this ones is great and dispenses just the right amount.The packaging is also pretty sturdy and will not easily break.

The Bad

• It’s really hard to come up with any cons.This is definitely one of the best mineral eye shadows I’ve come across.My one and only complaint with it though is that it’s only available online.Wish it were more accessible.

Love It Or Chuck It


I’m not just loving these beautiful eye colours but I’m oh! so in love with Nature’s Brilliance itself.Brilliant indeed.Great products, economical, versatile and most importantly all natural.What more can you expect from makeup.If you are into eye makeup then these pots are a must have.They have an awesome texture which makes it fun to apply and wear.Plum Lustre can be used to give your eye makeup a lovely 3d effect.Its such a beautiful gold/brown colour that you’ll instantly fall for it.And the Green lustre is the best green eye liner I have ever used more so because I normally shy away from greens altogether.Love it.
Check out the amazing range of all natural mineral makeup products on their website
http://www.naturesbrilliancebysue.net/

Disclaimer: Product sent by PR for review.Read Review Policy for more information.

Read More

Dupe It Yourself: Three Way With Your Foundation

Ok that sounds fishy(my exact intentions) and is actually grammatically incorrect too.Rather it should be Three Ways With Your Foundation.Blame me and my fascination with puns(which almost always turn out to be bad pj’s).Anyways coming to the post, these are not dupes per se but ways to take your foundation to the next level.

You can mix small batches and store them for later or you could mix up a fresh batch when you need.But a word of caution: Use products that your skin is familiar with and always do a patch test before using it on your face.So now that I’ve got that off my chest onto the dupes.

Dupe 1: Sweat Proof Foundation

Sunscreen+Foundation

I would go to any lengths to get my hands on a sweat proof foundation but unfortunately that won’t be enough since there are hardly any available.I stumbled onto this dupe by chance.I hate applying tons of product in the morning so I normally mix up everything together(moisturizer,sunscreen,foundation) and use the cocktail.One day I ran out of moisturizer so I skipped it and mixed only sunscreen and foundation.And Eureka!My foundation lasted a really long time and did not transfer at all.Voila.Sweat Proof Foundation at my beck and call.

“Mix a good quality, high SPF laden, water resistant, sweat resistant, non comodegenic sunscreen with an oil free water based foundation to transform it into a sweat proof sunscreen.”

I use Ansolar Sunscreen with SPF60 along with Maybelline Wonder Finish Liquid Foundation.

Dupe 2: Illuminizing Foundation

Illuminizing Powder(Benefit Dallas)+Foundation

Illuminzing liquids are actually foundation with any kind of sparkly powder mixed, in disguise.So it makes sense to dupe it by mixing the two yourself and saving money.Choose a highlighter, bronzer or blusher depending on what type of end product you want.Illuminizers should be applied with a lot of care unless you want to end up looking like a disco ball.

“Mix a couple of pinches of illuminizing powder or your favourite pink/peach blush with your regular foundation to concoct your own illuminizer.”

I use Color Bar Blush in Peachy Rose since it’s a mix between a highlighter and bronzer (and because I dropped it and ended up with broken/powdered chunks) along with Cover Girl Clean Makeup Foundation.

Dupe 3: Anti Acne Foundation

Aspirin+Foundation

There are a few anti acne foundations available but these are hard to come by.Hence the need for an anti acne foundation dupe.Earlier when I posted Chemical Peels At Home Part 3 : Salicylic Acid Peel, I introduced Aspirin as the magic ingredient to ward off acne since it's made up of Salicylic Acid.If you look at any anti acne medication or even foundation Salicylic Acid will always figure as the key ingredient.Which makes duping an anti acne foundation a cake walk for us.

“Crush a tablet of Aspirin and mix with a mineral powder based foundation or loose tinted powder and apply using a kabuki brush.Alternatively you could also mix liquid foundation with a crushed aspirin tablet but the salicylic acid might react to the other ingredients in the liquid foundation so it’s safer to use in a powder form ”

I use Dispirin with Lakme Rose Powder.

Read More

Mythbusters: Acne

 
We’ve all been plagued by the dreaded acne sometime in our life and spotting that zit threatening to ruin your life can do crazy things to your head.Like spew ridiculous fantasies and myths (I know I have plenty of ‘em) .And although there are tons of myths that I would love to bust, I thought of busting the five most ludicrous acne myths. 

Myth #1 
“ Washing your face frequently will result in lesser breakouts”
Busted
The basic purpose of washing your face is to remove dirt and oil from the surface of the skin.Contrary to popular belief, pores are not blocked by dirt/oil or other impurities.So all the electronic facial cleansers can eat dirt since they do not help unclog your pores in anyway, rather they aggravate the skin and may result in more breakouts.Acne starts when the walls of a pore stick together deep within the skin, so you may wash your face all you want without affecting acne at all.Rather frequent washing and scrubbing can lead to dryness and irritation causing more breakouts.Wash your face with bare hands not more than twice a day.
Also limit the use of scrubs to twice a week, since the abrasive particles in the scrub can cause tiny tears in your skin, increasing the risk for bacterial infections, breakouts and even permanent scarring.

Myth #2  
“ Acne is caused by dirt ”
Busted
Not at all.Acne forms when genetic conditions along with hormones trigger a cycle of excess dead skin that combine with excess sebum secreted by body and clog pores.In fact dirt particles are way to big to fit in your pores, clog them and cause acne.If that were the case then miners, gardeners and other people who are constantly exposed to dirt would have a face full of zits.Keeping the skin clean is important but don’t over clean or you’ll end up drying out your skin even more. 

Myth #3  
“Popping pimples helps getting rid of them ”
Busted
No it does not.It might make it less noticeable for a while but it will worsen soon.When you squeeze a pimple, you are actually pushing dead skin, oil and bacteria further into the skin, resulting in redness, swelling and possibly scarring.Let the pimple run it’s natural course and it will calm down soon enough.You could try gently rubbing an ice cube over it to reduce inflammation.

Myth #4  
“Lathering acne medication over breakouts will clear them sooner ”
Busted
Maybe but you also end up drying out your skin since most acne medication contain agents that might be harming your skin more than they are healing.The three most common ingredients used in acne medication are:

SALICYLIC ACID: It dissolves the clogged dead skin, oil from the pores thereby preventing clogging.But it can be very drying and should be used in mild concentrations.
BENZOYL PEROXIDE: This is  the most active ingredient in any acne treatment since it’s an anti-bacterial ingredient that helps remove bacteria in the follicles. Side effects include dryness and scaling in some and redness and swelling in others.
ISOTRETINOIN: This ingredient reduces production of sebum, helps soothes inflammation in the form of pimples and can also help unblock the clogging of pores. However, use of this product can also result to side effects such as dryness and scaling of the skin.

Acne medication should always be used in moderation and it should never be massaged into skin, rather a really tiny amount should be directly applied on the affected area.

Myth #5  
“Tanning will help clear out your skin ”
Busted
On the contrary it may increase your chances of getting skin cancer.A tan might temporarily mask acne by making your skin red and thereby blending your skin tone with red acne marks, but constant exposure to skin might make your skin dry and irritated making it more susceptible to breakouts in the future not to mention premature aging and yeah CANCER.Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 whenever you are out in the sun for more than 15 minutes and if you are scared the sunscreen will break you out then use a good quality non comodegenic one.

Feel free to share the craziest acne myth that you have busted.I'm all ears.

Read More

Smoky Eyes In 5 Minutes Or Less

This post is dedicated to all the crazy makeup junkies who have to put on makeup no matter how late they are running, who skip breakfast for doing up their eyes and who cannot step out of their homes unless they have looked in the mirror at least a zillion times even though they know that they will have to rush like a mad man in traffic.And BTW I just described me and my regular weekday mornings.
And since this has to be achieved in less than 5 minutes I’ll keep the post to the bare details. 

1. Use a soft pencil eye liner to line your waterline and tightline, carefully edging into the upper and lower lashline.
   
2. Next line the upper lashline, increasing the line’s thickness slightly in the middle towards the outer rim of the eyelid to open up your eyes.Don’t worry if the line looks harsh.
   
3. Now take a q-tip and dip it in Vaseline.Spread the Vaseline till the q-tip is adequately covered and then wipe off any excess.The q-tip should be coated with Vaseline and not dripping with it.
   
4. Dip the q tip in an eye shadow, one shade lighter than the pencil liner until it is coated.This step is optional and can be skipped if you are in a hurry.
   
5. Use the q-tip to smudge the liner starting from the waterline into the lower lashline till the line becomes less harsh and more Smokey.Do the same for the upper lashline.
   
6. Use a neutral eye shadow with gold undertone all across your eyelids upto your brow bone.Use it sparingly or skip it all together for the day or load up for the night.But make sure everything is blended and there are no harsh lines.
   
7. Curl lashes, apply mascara and you’re done.

Remember practise makes perfect.I can complete all the seven steps in under 5 minutes, without any mishap.So have a go at it and let me know how quickly you can master the Smokey Eyes.

Read More

My Take: Nature’s Brilliance By Sue Mineral Blush in Fuchsia Fantasy

This blush is the better half of the Nature’s Brilliance By Sue Mineral Set in Fuchsia Fantasy.I thought of reviewing the blush and lipstick separately so as to give a better insight into the products.You can read more about Nature’s Brilliance By Sue and their amazing line of all natural products in my review here.

Price
Retails separately for $8 and $20 for the Mineral Set containing a matching lipstick and  currently on sale for $7 and $17 respectively.
You can also use the Coupon Code SONIAK10 for an additional 10% Discount.

Ingredients
Serecite, Mica, Iron Oxide, Titanium Dioxide.





The Good

• The colour.The gorgeous frosty candy pink colour.When I first got it, I had my doubts.It seemed too pink, but this colour proved perfect for my complexion.It not only shows on my pale face but brings a pop of colour and has a lovely frosty finish.
  
• You need a really minuscule amounts to get the desired effect since the colour is pretty dense rather than being sheer (Dream Mousse are you listening!!!) .
  
• Zero glitter and yet it is able to give a lovely iridescent finish as is apparent from the swatch.
  
• It’s made up of all natural ingredients and is 100% organic.
  
• Sturdy packaging.The sifter is made of good quality plastic and won’t break easily even if you accidentally drop it(like I did).
  
• It’s versatile and can be used as an eye colour too.In fact it’s marketed as such.
  
• $8 for a mineral blush is a bargain specially since they have really cheap shipping.And the pot will easily last you a lifetime.

The Bad

• Since it’s in powder form and has such a dense colour, application can be a bit tricky.You need to barely touch the brush and then dust it off, if you want to avoid looking like a clown.
  
• It’s only available online.My biggest woe since that means long waiting periods and inaccurate swatches.

 
Love It Or Chuck It
Look at the colour and tell me you don’t love it?Yeah right you can’t.It is so pretty, it’s pink personified.Add to that the fact that it is made of 100% natural ingredients and I’m head over heels in love.It applies beautifully and gives your cheek a flush of colour without going overboard.Perfect for day as well as night.I’m definitely buying more shades the next time I’m blush shopping.
Do check out the amazing range of natural products on their website
http://www.naturesbrilliancebysue.net/

Disclaimer: Product sent by PR for review.Read Review Policy for more information.

Read More

Charm Factory Giveaway Winner

I’m having a blast these days hosting great giveaways.However choosing a winner is not fun at all.It takes a lot of hard work to sort through the entries and then finally when I have to pick only one winner I feel really bad.But anyways, that only motivates me to hold more fun filled giveaways in the future.And trust me I have quite a few planned.

This giveaway was really close to my heart since I was celebrating completing 100 posts on Beauty And The Blog(read about it here), and thanks a ton to all of my beautiful readers who joined me in my revelries.Onto the results then.

There were a total of 253 entries and the winner was picked through random.org

 


Congratulations Anne Marie.I’ve already sent you a mail.
You can go through the complete list of entries here:
https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AurMMUePC5vfdEMwUjk5MXhmalNlOVJIdVhZQ0F6d1E&hl=en_US

Read More