Glamglow Flashmud Brightening Treatment: Review

10/31/2017 - 0 Comments



© Sephora


Glamglow is not a new name to many beauty and skin care lovers out there. It has been one of the most raved products on the Internet and like many, it has been on my wishlist for a while.

And since my current skin condition demands extra care, especially for fading acne marks and scars I decided to give this a go.

So, did this live up to the hype?

Read on to find out...

What Glamglow says:

FLASHMUD is a multi-sensorial quick result brightening treatment. Powerful & innovative multi-brightening complexes help to create the brightest, lightest & luminous perfect skin!

The TEOXI Technology in FLASHMUD is White Birch Leaf. It delivers natural Betulin, Betulinic Acid & Ellagic Acid to create an improved colour balanced skin tone. WhiteEnergy is a brilliant fusion of powerful natural active to create intense bright & even results. Flashlucent is a combination of skin translucency optimisers featuring 3 levels of exfoliation to drive ingredients into the skin for luminous younger looking skin. Reflectrum is a blend of brightening ingredients boosted with diamond photoluminescence to increase the reflecting level of the skin and make it appear radiant & more attractive. Designed for Instant & Extended results for Men & Women of all ages, all skin types & all skin tones.



Price:

$24 for 0.5oz

Main Ingredients:

-WhiteEnergy: An advanced fusion of powerful natural active ingredients, with a naturally occurring highly, developed complexes, carefully combined to create a potent energised cluster to fight colour unevenness helping to create intense bright, lighter, and even results.

- Flashlucent: A combination of natural skin translucency optimises, formed together as a penetration-complex to help drive active ingredients deeper with the use of white quartz microspheres, white refined pumice, and sun-dried white blanche clay - all helping to provide luminous, younger-looking skin.

-Reflectrum: The combination of powerful natural brightening active ingredients boosted with ultra-fine optical diamond photoluminescence to help to increase the individual albedo reflecting the level of the skin, causing the skin to appear lighter, brighter, and more attractive.

-TEAOXI White Birch Leaf: Help provides a potent formula and improved colour-balanced skin tone.


My Experience:

As mentioned above, the much-raved face pack claims to contain within it apparent mind-boggling ingredients as described by exaggerated extravagant adjectives. 

I am always on the lookout for skin care products that can do wonders for my sensitive and acne scarred skin. 

This face mask claims to be an instant solution for dark spots and uneven skin tone, dullness and uneven texture. 

The FLASHMUD Brightening Treatment comes in a metallic orange container which is quite heavy in itself. It makes use of silver accents and fonts over the orange background. 

The mask is very gritty in consistency and texture, much like touching the sand. It is quite thick but does spread well on the skin. The mask also has a strong cosmetic yet citrus-like scent but it fades gradually upon application.

Following Glamglow's directions, I left the mask on my face and left for 20 minutes post-application and then dampened my face and scrubbed it gently before washing it off with water.

I used this face mask a couple of times during the week and the results were as follows:
- I did not notice any change in complexion even after using the entire container
- My skin did not look any radiant
- It did nothing to my acne scars
- My face, however, did appear a little cleaner
- The mask turned my sensitive skin red visibly worsening my skin
- I experienced severe breakouts after using this mask

I have used the entire jar but it failed to give any positive results. What a dud.

The jar does last for almost 2 months even after regular usage. But what is the point of having the product when it further accelerates damage on your facial skin? I will definitely make sure not to repurchase it ever again. 

Also, the product can be considered to be on the pricey side for the quantity. I am glad I purchased the smaller pack instead of the full sized container.

I would recommend getting a wee packet sized sample from Sephora if you do consider getting adventurous and giving this a try.

Also, availability can be an issue - especially in India and the Middle East.

So, do I recommend it?

No. But I advise doing a patch test before going full face with this mask.

My rating:

0.8/5 





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Travel 101: What's in my Travel Handbag?

10/25/2017 - 0 Comments





I love travelling and do so often. Road trips, long distance flights or even short hauls always pave their way into my already occupied life. Therefore my handbag is my constant companion and buddy on every trip that I make around the country or even the globe. 

Today I shall dig out the contents of my handbag and show you my travel essentials. You can add these items to your travel key list the next time you plan to travel and make sure you don't miss the necessities:

© Brondell
1. Water Bidet:
This is one of my latest discoveries and has made to the top of my favourites list and is MUST HAVE for hygiene conscious folks. I purchased this off Amazon especially for travel as I was tired of carrying empty plastic bottles while travelling to the West. The portable water bidet comes in various sizes, is made of squeezable plastic and fits conveniently into my handbag. It also comes along with a waterproof cover to avoid accidental spills from leftover water and an angled extendable spray.

The downside is that you cannot store water in it - but I ain't complaining as I fill water from taps in washrooms.


2. Water bottle:
I don't know about you but I consider myself the most dehydrated person on the surface of this planet. I NEED WATER on flight, land, wheels or water. I love carrying a lightweight water bottle to keep myself hydrated throughout my journey.

3. Mobile phone:
I cannot do without this device. As much as I love to stay away from gadgets I still cannot figure out a way out to curb my mobile phone addiction. And ooh... look at this sparkly cover.



4. Eye mask:
I cannot sleep with any amount of light pouring through my eyelids. Nor can I sleep in complete darkness. I, therefore, resort to eye masks and fall asleep in a wink - literally.



5. Earplugs/ Headphones:
Aeroplane naps aren't the easiest, especially with chatty passengers and screaming babies. The howls of a crying infant/ toddler suck patience out of me.
Also, earplugs are a lifesaver in situations when certain airlines charge you extra for using in-flight headphones. Always carry one in your bag and you'll have your entertainment covered.
6. Tissues:
This item is a no-brainer. This item is a favourite amongst messy eaters like me.

 7. Hand Sanitiser:
Another important item in my handbag. You will need this each time you eat or visit the loo.

8. Makeup pouch:
I usually carry a handful of makeup essentials in a flight to freshen up my face before landing. A separate post on this is coming soon.

9. Face Mask:
Cabin pressure combined with the notoriously dry air works towards sucking every drop of moisture off your skin. This is when a good sheet mask tailor-made for flights, always comes to the rescue.
Just wipe the makeup off your face, put on a sheet mask and relax.

10. Hand Cream:
Hands are the next most vulnerable victims of the villainous cabin air. A good hand cream like the Body Shop Almond Hand & Nail Manicure Cream is the perfect product to carry with you during a flight.

11. Neck pillow:
Before your next flight/ trip purchase a comfortable neck pillow to avoid straining your neck the next time you snooze. Look for one with a button at the ends so you can quickly attach it to your bag once you are done.

12. Caudalie Grape Water:
After I changed my skincare routine a few months ago (and I must say for the better) I have added this to my nighttime CTM. It not only hydrates my skin but provides an even base for the application of other skin care products. 
This grape water also serves well during long-distance flights after I remove off my make up. I keep spraying this over my bare face every few hours to keep it hydrated without breaking out.

I'll add a detailed review soon, till then Bon Voyage Folks.


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Review: Don't Look at Me by Lush

10/17/2017 - 0 Comments



Picture Courtesy: Beauty Frontline

My skin has been misbehaving for a while now. Breakouts, dry skin patches, acne scars, dehydration and dullness is what makes up my facial skin these days. 

I have been trying to combat these issues by travelling less, eliminating high-stress levels, working out, eating healthy, sleeping early and revamping my skincare routine. 

Speaking of skincare, masks have been an essential element in my facial detox routine. I have tried several masks from Sephora, H&M, Glamglow, Kiehl's, Dermalogica, Fresh, Montague Jeunesse, Back to School, SkinFood, Dr Jart+ etc. But the mask that makes it to my favourites list has to be from Lush.

Everything from the pure and fresh awakening smell to the organic effects on my facial skin makes me stock up on Lush masks each time I cross an enticing store.

A few months ago I picked up a freshly whipped pack of Don't Look at Me. I was looking for something targeting my uneven skin tone.

So, did it work as Lush promised? Let's find out...

Courtesy: Fatima-writes-beauty

What Lush says (A quirky description as expected:

Well hello, don't be shy! Smooth on this vivid blue mask and you'll want to show anyone and everyone your vibrant complexion. Ground rice gently scrubs away dry skin, murumuru butter moisturises and zingy lemon juice tones. And if that wasn't enough, we've added organic silken tofu to soften you up in all the right way. The stunning results will have you coming back for more of this scrubby, softening goodness.

Price: 

$14 Appx. for 60g

Ingredients:

Kaolin, Fresh Organic Lemon Juice (Citrus limonum), Glycerine Rice, Syrup (oryza Sativa Syrup), Ground White Rice (Oryza Sativa Powder) (Oryza Sativa Rice Powder), Organic Silken Tofu (Hydrolysed Soy Protein), Murmuru Butter (Astrocaryum Murumuru), Bentone (Hectorite), Water (Aqua), Rice Milk (Oryza Sativa), Fragrance, Grapefruit Oil (Citrus paradisi), Neroli Oil (Citrus Aurantium amara) *Limonene *Geraniol *Farnesol Blue 1 *Occurs naturally in essential oils


My Experience:

When it comes to face masks, Lush is one brand I can trust without a second thought. In the worst case scenario where the masks don't seem to work, they don't break me out - at least. 

So, when someone recommended Don't Look at Me, I immediately walked to my nearest Lush store and gave it a try. And did I regret acting up on my instinct this time? Perhaps not.

The mask comes housed in Lush's signature black tub packaging and is difficult to miss because of its neon bright blue colour that makes it stand out from the rest of the freshly whipped masks. Don't Look at Me sounds more like a fun pun (considering it is) as a second look is irresistible. You are immediately taken by a citrusy smell - which reminds me of fresh lemonade and indicates the presence of lemon juice. The smell can be overpowering for some but I found it bearable considering the Indian spices I use in my daily cuisine. 

Courtesy: Blog Lovin'
Once applied the mask feels very light on the face and doesn't drip which allows you to complete other chores if you are not relaxing. It dries within 10-15 minutes of application and does not feel stretchy on the face. 

While washing off you can feel the scrub like granules that I use to gently exfoliate my skin. The mask comes off easily with water and does not leave any blue hue on the face.

Don't Look at Me leaves my face plump, soft, hydrated and vibrant. After using it twice to thrice a week I did notice a reduction in my acne spots. And the best thing is: It didn't invite any unwelcome guests - ACNE. 

Unfortunately, the results are not very long lasting and disappear by the next morning.

I stopped using it a while ago because I was trying other products and was very disappointed to find it of no use anymore (within 2 months of purchase) as it had expired. 

The expiration date is an issue as it comes with a (very) limited shelf-life - barely a month from the date of manufacture as it doesn't have self-preserving qualities and even after storing it in a fairly cold refrigerator the mask had fungi webbed on top.

Nonetheless, I might pick it up on my next trip to Lush as it didn't do any harm to my skin.

So, do I recommend it?

Maybe, considering the price you pay for a small quantity of product with short-term results.

My rating: 3.8/5


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Stressed out? Then this is for you...

10/13/2017 - 0 Comments

There was a time not very long ago when even the tiniest of work would seem and feel exhaustively herculean. I would tire out quickly, had no energy and my stress levels had rocketed sky high. 

My desires to get things done were a complete mismatch to my exhausted mind, body and soul. I was trying to juggle between social life, extremely long work hours, tiring workouts at the gym, housework, endless traffic jams and a truckload of other issues - all sandwiched together every day. I literally lived from weekend to weekend often carrying forward the extra burden from weekdays to the much awaited weekends - making things worse for my entire existence. 

This churning routine went on for what seemed like an eternity - until one fine day when I couldn't take it anymore and finally mustered the courage to pause everything. I just had to beat the stress in order to enjoy and be grateful towards life.

So, what exactly did I do? Here are some of the things I put into my routine to combat stress:

1. SLOW DOWN:

Observe.
Most people today live a rushed life. From the time the alarm buzzes in the morning till they hit their beds felling all drained out and fatigued at night - we all survive the cliched fast-paced world but not many do much to solve the issue. There is only one realistic approach to this: SLOW DOWN.

One way of doing this is by observing things around you. No time, eh? Simply stop whatever you are doing at the moment, close your eyes and breathe in and out FIVE times. You should calm down by now. Next just walk to your nearest window OR simply look around you. Observe the sights and sounds for the next 5 minutes. Look around for peculiar details - if you are at work look at your own desk, turn to your body - observe your hands; feel your palms, carefully examine the lines on your hands and so on. There are many details we encounter every day and miss just because of our hasty nature.

Switch Off.
Technology occupies most of our time throughout the day. Not only is constant exposure to gadgets and gizmos hazardous for our physical health they also have a huge impact on our mental being acting as stress boosters. Resort to digital disconnect and you'll experience a digital detox.

Try and limit the use of technology in everyday life as much as possible. Exchange technology for something else - instead of reading online get a public library subscription and read books, quit taking notes on your mobile or laptop device and get fancy stationery to work on, instead of binge-watching Netflix plan a long drive with a friend you haven't met in a while. Find ways you can replace your e-life with that of a real experience.

2. GULP THOSE GALLONS DOWN:

I know you heard this one several times. But there is no escaping water. Book an appointment with your GP and get your hydration levels checked. If results show you're dehydrated get fancy bottles and gulp at least 5-6 of those in a day depending on your body's needs.

I increased my water intake over the past year and experienced a great deal of change in stress, my ability to focus and overall health.



3. MOVE AWAY FROM THINGS THAT HURT YOUR MENTAL PEACE

Yes, you read it right.

If there is someone who annoys you - avoid getting into arguments and simply quit seeing that person. If the latter is not possible, try and mentally block the person's presence and speech. When you practice this, in the long run, you will notice that your completely mind will stop paying attention to that person.

If your boss fidgets with your mind plan an exit strategy and quit. Do NOT compromise on your peace. If the city you live in is distressing, move out as soon as you can.

If you are in a hurtful and abusing relationship. WALK OUT IMMEDIATELY. There is absolutely no compromising there as the abuser will deem you weak and treat your silence as weakness and as a signal to continue the abuse.

Certain situations might not be easy to find a solution to. But try and work your way out. Remember it is about YOU so you need to make a decision for your own self.

4. EAT HEALTHY

This is as cliche as the word cliche itself.

I never paid heed to healthy eating ever. Turkey breast croissant and a Frappuccino from Starbucks was what made my breakfast menu. I would have a wee-sized yoghurt pot for lunch and munch on anything I could get my hands on for dinner.

I despised cooking at home, skipped meals, had loads of Subway sandwiches and thought I was living a normal and healthy life.

I was completely wrong. This unhealthy routine of munching everything or anything resulted in high-stress levels, fatigue and loss of energy so much so that I had to take a break after every little-accomplished task. And because I am a workaholic I would force myself with all my might to get everything done including sleepless nights. You can only imagine what I put myself through.

Thankfully I discovered a trainer who enlightened me on healthy eating and got me back on my feet.

5. SWEAT THE STRESS OUT ALBEIT THE RIGHT WAY

In simple terms, get a personal trainer. 

As expensive as this may sound - it's worth every single penny. Working out on your own will only take you this far. But getting a personal trainer who would monitor your health, BP, stress, sleep and your exercise routine is the perfect fit for your stressful life.

A mere gym membership doesn't certify the exercises you do sans guidance - how do you know they are doing any good for you and are they even meant for you (and your body type)?

When you sweat the stress out in the right fashion you discover your mental and physical strengths, sleep better, become productive, are energised and attain a happier life.

Also, let's not forget the beautiful physique resulting from all that workout.

6. DO THINGS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY & OFTEN

Make time for yourself. Revive old hobbies. Like reading a book? Plan a few hours at your local library or bookstore, pick a good read and treat yourself with a good find. 

Enjoy colours? Order an adult colouring/ painting book and take time filling in the intricate patterns.

Love photography? Google search for a scenic place you haven't visited in your city. Grab your phone/ camera and get clicking.

7. BE GRATEFUL. 

 Whether you are religious and/or lean towards spirituality be grateful for each and everything in life. 

Whenever you feel stressed and bad for the life you are living look at things around you- The mobile device in your hands, the water bottle lying around, a roof above your head, your eyes with which you can see the world - you have way more than you can be thankful for.

Being grateful helps slow you down, dissolves stress and brings about a feeling of satisfaction.

8. HAVE A BI-MONTHLY DIY SPA/ RELAXATION DAY

Once or twice a month devise a spa day. The next time you are on a shopping spree pick up some aromatherapy products, good quality shampoos and body washes, a face mask, a hair mask and a good movie to watch. 

During your next weekend home, book a day to yourself and your purchases for a relaxing spa day. Do this once a while but not too often as you don't want your mind to get used to it and neglect its importance in the long run.

More on having a DIY spa day coming soon. Watch this space for more.

9. SLEEP WELL

Nothing can negate the importance of a good night's sleep. At least 6-8 hours of rest each night is necessary for your body to burn calories, revive and refresh your mind, senses and your entire being in general.

Having a poor sleep routine, in the long run, can result in insomnia, fatigue during the day, poor performance, skin issues, deficiencies and so much more. 

Your body then tends to crave caffeine in the form of coffee and tea during the day which worsens your sleep cycle. 

10. PLAN


Purchase a fancy daily planner, planner stickers and coloured pens and plan things ahead of time. Be punctual to avoid any delays and learn to prioritise things according to their importance on that particular day.

It's OKAY to not complete everything on your list on a certain day. You can carry it forward to the next but remember to not create a backlog of items you might stress about in future.

Your future self will thank you for this.

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Review: Eternity Moment by Calvin Klein

10/10/2017 - 0 Comments


If there is a fragrance that I have loved for years and could label as my signature scent - it has to be Calvin Klein's Eternity Moment. I first received this stunning bottle as an appreciation gift from my departmental head. 


 I was quite sceptical and perceived it to be a good riddance article in return for my hard work. But when I went home and sniffed a whiff, I instantly fell in love with it. The charming scent had me captivated and I couldn’t stop raving about it to my mom over Skype who lived in a distant country. 

 Fast forward months later and the enthralling scent in the bottle was approaching its end. I had to find another one quick. So I rushed to Areej in Muscat to get a hold of the bottle. I was shocked by the SA’s blatant reply: “It has been long discontinued.” 


I couldn’t believe my ears. I HAD to get a bottle of Eternity Moment and the urgency was overshadowing my being. Nonetheless, I ignored her knowledge of stock and ran to the perfumes section to scan the glistening shelves myself. I returned home with a heavy heart that day and searched online in desperation for one last chance at fate. Alas, it was nowhere to be found. 

 I still didn’t lose hope and a few days later when I flew back to Dubai, I stormed into Paris Gallery, Sephora and every possible perfume and makeup destination from The Dubai Mall, Mall of The Emirates to the little shops at Iranian Market in Sharjah - but in vain. I did pick up a substitute from Harvey Nichols by the name of CK Eternity, but it was nowhere close to the charismatic scent of Eternity Moment. 

Years later, I was strolling through the polished Duty-Free Stores at Indira Gandhi International Airport at New Delhi, India waiting for my flight to yet another adventurous spot, when lo and behold. Right before my delightful eyes was a tall, sleek glass bottle with a T-shaped glass cap glistening from afar, placed neatly in front of cartons - I let out a shrill: 'tis my favourite Eternity Moment, waiting to picked up by my eager hands. I was so excited that I stocked up on as many as I could. My LONG wait finally came to a satisfactory end. 

Ever since I have been stopped by many people at public places in various countries who've enquired about the brand, made a note of it and said they loved it!
Luckily this perfume is also available in the UK and N. America.

Now that I’ve satisfied my storytelling urge, let’s head over to the review. Shall we?

What Calvin Klein Says:

Eternity Moment, meant for modern, young women. Its fine and fresh and floral aroma is invited to capture the eternal moment of two souls meeting, gazing at each other, touching for the first time... The notes are litchi, pomegranate blossom, water lily, Chinese pink peony, guava, musk and woody notes. Eternity moment was launched in 2004. Eternity Moment was created by Harry Fremont and Jacques Cavallier.

Top Notes: Lychee, Guava, Melon, Raspberry
Middle Notes: Chinese Pink Peony, Water Lily, Passion Flower, Jasmine
Base Notes: Musk, Brazilian Rosewood, Cashmere wood, Sandalwood


Price: $30 - $45 for 100 ml (Eau de Toilette)

My Experience:

If the above rants weren't enough to describe my obsession towards the perfume I'd like to use this space to further elaborate on. 

Eternity Moment is a long wear perfume with fresh and floral notes and a very feminine fragrance that can be worn during the day and it stayed on all day long. I loved carrying it at night as well although most people refute the idea of using it as a night fragrance. The smell is not overpowering but just perfect to linger onto your clothes, pulse points and even your luscious locks if you'd fancy. I did not need touch ups throughout the day and it served me best as I work, sweat myself at the gym and am on my feet 24x7.

The perfume doesn't stain my clothes (residue-free) and I did not have to consider the shade of the outfit I wore on any particular day. I did abstain from spraying it on top of any jewellery or Indian embroidery in order to avoid oxidisation of the metal (work) due to the presence of alcohol in the spray.

 The classic bottle stands pretty on my dresser but carrying it around can be an issue as it is glass and therefore fragile and bulky.  But since I own a traveller perfume atomiser it was easy to pump the perfume into the portable container and take it around in my handbag or clutch. 

 Availability was and still an issue in the Middle East (Dubai/ Oman) but you can definitely order it from Amazon, Walmart (N. America), The Fragrance Shop (UK) or just pick it from a Duty Free Store next time you're at the International terminal at the airport in New Delhi, India.


So, do I recommend it?


YES. Never have I ever fallen in love with a fragrance as magical as Calvin Klein's Eternity Moment.



My rating: 5/5



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