L'oreal Paris Color Riche Ombre Pure Eye-shadow Review

Welcome and a big hello to all you beauties,

Since the time L'oreal has brought up their new eye-shadow range in the market, I was eyeing this new collection with vivid variety of colors and textures. This time L'oreal has categorized the eye-shadows in 3 genres, namely, Luminere, Chameleon and Smoky.

And just when I thought of buying them, I received a packet from L'oreal Paris Team with (OMG!) the new eye-shadows from L'oreal Color Riche Ombre Pure collection. Guess What....one of the shades was exactly what I wanted. Anyways, the two eye-shadows are in the color gold (#500 gold mania) from the luminere genre and a beautiful olive/khaki green color (#305 Kaki Repstyle) from smoky genre.

So off I go to test these two gel-infused newbie eye-shadows....

At first, I was thrilled to see how good pigmented both the eye-shadows were. Pic below!

Secondly, the soft and creamy texture of the eye-shadows makes the application way easier and not even a tiny bit of fallout in case of gold mania eye-shadow. However, a little bit in case of khaki color was observed. The fallout in case of khaki color might lie on the light powdery consistency of the eye-shadow. The eye-shadow is, however, nicely pressed into the pot and the powdery consistency is observed only while applying the eye-shadow with the brush. These eye-shadows can be applied dry as well as wet and it works really great both ways, though the color intensity improves when applied wet. 

However, I find that the Lumiere range, works best when applied with fingers or applied heavily with a dense flat brush. 

Also, I suggest using a eye base/primer just to enhance the effect and increase the longevity of eye-shadow and avoids creasing. In fact, even after wearing the eye-shadows (obviously with a base!) for about 10 hours, I didn't observe any sort of creasing. 

The wonderful gold color (#500) gives a very bright and vibrant eyes with a decent bit of shimmer. This quality is makes it good for the it's application on the inner eyelid and the khaki eye-shadow (#305) then comes to the outer half of the eyelid or for outer-V corner of the eye. Both the colors are consistent with each other and can be blended to obtain a full eye make-up. ;-)

I am totally satisfied with both the eye-shadows but my mega favorite is the gold mania (#500). It's the "KILLER" for me and the best gold eye-shadow that I ever had so far. It's not over glittery but has a right amount of shimmer and ideally is great for party looks as well as for all day look, when you just want to look a little alive and make your eyes open! 

Each of the above mentioned category has variety of colors ranging from warm neutrals, to pinks-peaches and bright indigo. For the price of ca. 7€, they are definitely not the cheapest but worth the price considering at the outcome. I would definitely explore the other colors & chameleon genre as well. Hopefully would be able to add some more to my collection ;-)

Hope this review helps!

Until my next review... KEEP SMILING :-)

Preview: For Your Beauty Konjac-"Gesichts-Reinigungschwamm" (Facial Cleaning Sponge)

Hello lovelies,

Our face is the first thing which makes a first impression to our identity and indeed when taken care off properly, can make you look at least 5 years younger. Catering to this requirement, the brand "for your beauty" has come up with an interesting and never heard cosmetic tool that would help you in proper and thorough cleaning of your facial skin. And here's presenting

"Der Konjac-Gesichtsreinigungsschwamm"

or

"The konjac face cleaning sponge"

The sponge is derived from the Japanese konjac root, which is known for its health-promoting properties in Asia. It is completely natural, is dried without the addition of additives and is therefore 100% vegan. The konjac face cleaning sponge cleans your skin gently, thoroughly and deeply. It stimulates blood circulation and the formation of new skin cells. With its light peeling effect, it is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin.  

It is available in two varieties (white & black) depending upon your skin problem.

For your beauty Konjac facial cleaning sponge in white is made of 100% pure plant fiber. It is naturally rich in moisture and acts alkaline and so balances the acidity of the skin without being harsh. The sponge is the perfect daily helper to keep the skin fresh and to clean the pores deeply.

Whereas, the for your beauty Konjac facial cleaning sponge in black contains bamboo charcoal, a natural antioxidant that prevents pimples, blemishes and excess fat of the skin and cleanses the pores intensively. The sponge is ideal for daily facial care of skin prone to pimples and oily skin types especially.

EASY STEPS TO USE THIS TOOL:

Step 1: Soak the sponge in water for 3-5 minutes and then squeeze out the excess water.

Step 2: Massage the sponge in circular motions over your entire (clean) face. At this point you may use a little bit of the cleanser (your choice!)
Step 3: Clean the sponge thoroughly after use and make sure to remove water by pressing the sponge gently.
Step 4: Hang the sponge to drain the excess liquid/water and leave to dry out.

At a minimal price of 2.49 euros, this cleaning tool is ideally is must-have specially for people like me who often gets very less time to pamper ourselves and indulge in a proper skin care routine. 

P.S. Since this product is from Rossmann's own brand "for your beauty"...you will find it in only in your nearby Rossmann shop.

Essence Trend Edition " MOUNTAIN CALLING"

A big hello to all you beauties out there,

Yay...it's winter again and with snow around, it's time to hit the slopes for skiing or hiking. Aptly keeping us armed and to enhance our beauty this winter, essence has brought out a beautiful trend edition by the name " MOUNTAIN CALLING". This trend edition is available from December' 2014 at your local drug store in  Germany, Czech Republic, Greece, Russia, Belarus and Bahrain.

The colour scheme with white, blue, red and dark green shades provides a winter feeling as well as a cool look. Thanks to the hand & nail balm, every beauty’s hands are given the intensive care they need to withstand even the coldest temperatures. The highlights of the trend edition are the eyeshadow palette with six colours and socks with a norwegian design. And the topper with white snowflake elements creates a nail style with a true snow-effect. The mountains are calling… with essence!

Eyeshadow palette (01 meet me @ the ski lodge)

Wonderful winter! The eyeshadow palette is extremely convincing with its winter colour combination of white, gold, brown as well as light and dark blue. Thanks to the high pigmentation and various effects ranging from pearly to matt, all mountain beauties are sure to attract plenty of attention. The packaging design is gorgeous, too, surrounding the eyeshadows with a true winter wonderland! Priced at 3.99 €.

2 in1 kajal pencil

Ice and earth colour. The duo kajal pencils in the cool colour combinations light and dark blue as well as dark green and brown offer accurate results on the upper and lower eyelid. The shades can be combined to create a trendy colour effect. 

Available in 01 today is fun day and 02 we love winter holidays for 1.49 € each.

Lip balms

A thing of the past... dry, chapped lips! The light and creamy formula of this lip balm makes lips feel pleasantly soft. Transparent white with a light shimmer and red provide a touch of glam in the mountains. 

Available in 01 snow alert! and 02 let's climb mount beauty for 1.49 € each.

Cream to powder blush

Rosy cheeks, even in the wintertime… this blush gives your complexion a fresh touch in the darker months of the year. Simply apply the creamy texture with your fingertips and blend – it instantly melts with your skin and provides powdery results. 

Available in 01 let's climb mount beauty for 2.79 €.

Translucent powder

Keep cool! The powder ensures a matt, flawless finish all day long. No matter how challenging your winter activities are – your make-up will remain untouched. The translucent powder adapts to the individual skin tone, making it suitable for all skin types. With a cool mountain embossment on the surface of the texture! 

Available in 01 snow alert! for 3.29 €.

Nail Polish

A perfect match for your outfit on the slopes! With nail polishes in red, dark green, white and light blue, trendy looks are guaranteed. The long-lasting texture and high coverage turn these nail polishes into perfect companions for a trip to mountains. 

Available in 01 today is fun day, 02 we love winter holidays!, 03 let's climb mount beauty and 04 snow alert!.  Priced at 1.59 € each.

Snow top coat

Snowflakes. The transparent top coat is a highlight for all ski bunnies. Thanks to white snowflakes elements, you can create a surprising snow-effect on your nails. Simply apply on top of your nail polish. Available in 01 snow alert! for 1.99 €.

Hand & Nail Balm

Care & cure! The moisturizing hand and nail cream ensures perfectly soft and pampered hands and nails, even when it’s cold as ice and the temperatures are below zero. The special formula won’t leave your hands feeling oily. 

Available in 01 meet me @ the ski lodge for 1.99 €.

Socks

Super cozy! Warm feet are guaranteed for all girls in the alps with these stylish socks. The woollen socks have a hip norwegian design and are the ideal companions when the weather is cold and frosty outside. 

Available in 01 meet me @ the ski lodge for 3.99 € for a pair.

As for me, nail polishes, the top coat as well as the blush are the only things which stand out in this trend edition. :-) What would you probably pick up for yourself ???

P.S. The above information has been provided by "Cosnova" and the prices quoted above are the recommended retail price and may vary!

Review: Wellness & Beauty Duschschaum (Shower Gel)

Hello Ladies,

Last week I got my Rossmann Schön für mich box and like a satisfied customer was very happy with the selection of products that were packed in it. One of them was the shower gel from Wellness & Beauty. 

Wellness & beauty is the own brand of drug store Rossmann and so far I have never tested or even tried to buy the products from this brand. Even though, I have a half a dozen of shower gel stocked up at home, I couldn't retain my enthusiasm to try this new shower gel on the block. 

Well honestly, I don't entirely blame my curiosity for new things but in this case it is the sultry packaging of the shower gel that drove me to have it instantly in my shower. The light-curvaceous packaging in an off-white and grey colour combination is truly feminine. But that doesn't mean all you gentlemen out there can't use it . ;-)

As for the properties of shower gel, inside the bottle it's liquid and as soon as it is pumped out or sprayed on, it turns into a massive foam. A great Idea indeed! ;-) And it does smell heavenly pleasant. :-D This wellness & beauty claims to be loaded with vanilla extract and macadamia oil but all I smelled was macadamia oil. Not that I am complaining but I was actually expecting more of vanilla. Nevertheless, it was still smelling great and showering with it was mesmerising. :-)

When it comes to skin nourishment, hmmm....let's say, It's not at its best. I mean, it kinds of provide a little moisture and doesn't dry out the skin completely. But it's not "the 100% moisturising and nourishing" shower gel, if thats what you are looking for. I have been using this for past 10 days and I do  have to cream myself  thoroughly afterwards, specially in these winter months. But isn't every other drug store shower gel is like that or sometimes even worse. As long as it doesn't dries my skin to itch, I am OK with it!

What bugs me is the amount (150 mL) of shower gel! I know it's not less but... it's just day 11 and I'm already running out of it. At least 250 mL version should be made available! Nonetheless, for a price of 2.99 €/ 150 mL, I would imagine myself buying it seldom provided it's availability in other fragrances. However, I do recommend it to everyone enjoying pleasant fragrant experience in their shower.

As of now, I am content with my initial experience with the brand "Wellness & Beauty". It's surely a brand to watch out for. I am now interested in learning their other product range. Must be exciting!! Of course, I will update you of all my new beauty encounters. Until then....

As Always...Keep Smiling !! 

Do you already know Wellness & Beauty Products?? Have you any suggestions or must try recommendations for me....then please leave me a comment below :-)

Max Factor Masterpiece Transform Mascara

Heyllloooo Sweeties,

I hope you all are doing good. It's a new day and time for a new product review. Today it's all about eyes. The simplest way to adorn your eyes is by using a good and effective Mascara. With all that fuzz about mascaras, market is completely overloaded with lots of promising variety, price effective as well as high end products. And this just complicates the selection of "THE BEST" mascara. Off lately, I have been searching for a voluminous and intense effect mascara. After doing rounds and rounds of drugstores, i ended up finalizing on "Max Factor Masterpiece Transform Mascara".

Well optically, the mascara comes in an elegant black & gold packaging (design) and is an immediate eye catcher. It has a rubber brush with very fine and minuscule bristles because of which it holds a lot of product onto the brush. Applying just once provides a very intense and elongating effect on the eye-lashes. However, running the mascara again through lashes intensifies the effect further but leads to clumping of lashes. That maybe because, the brush holds a lot of product. One trick to defy clumping is to wipe the excess off from the brush, either onto the sides of the bottle (though much of the mascara still remains on the brush) or on a tissue paper. Wiping on tissue paper does lead to wastage of product however!! :-(

Also the mascara takes a little while to dry up completely. Nonetheless, the "Max Factor Masterpiece Transform Mascara" does its job satisfactorily. Priced at ca. 9 euros, the mascara is a bit expensive considering the end result. However, if you neglect the clump effect then the mascara gets 10/10 from me and a must-have if you want that long-lash effect.

What you have to say about the "Max Factor Masterpiece Transform Mascara"??? Please share your experiences......

Until my next review....

Keep Smiling :-)

Rossmann's Schön für mich "October" 2014 box

Hello lovelies,

Today I will introduce you all to my first ever Rossmann beauty box, namely "Schön für mich". 

What is"Schön für mich"?

It is basically a beauty box offered similar to that offered by drogerie stores like dm (lieblinge) and Müller (look box). You do not subscribe to this box instead every month you have the chance to win one of the limited 5000 boxes over the Rossmann's facebook page. Moreover you can try your luck for three consecutive days.  Isn't is great?  ;-) . You  learn immediately  if your are lucky to have won the box after which, the personalized coupon will be sent to your postal address after 4 weeks and the box should be ready for collection at your opted Rossmann branch. Ohh Moment...Mind you the box is not free but you just pay mere 5 euros for a products worth more than that. :-D
So go ahead and try your luck !!!

My October' 2014 box

Last month I got lucky and won this beautiful box. And just today I picked up this beauty box and though I knew it's contents (thanks other bloggers ;-)), I was super excited to open it. So here it is! The pinkish-violet box has interesting 7 products ranging from perfume, decorative cosmetics, and beauty products along with coupons for subsequent purchase of these products at Rossmann shop. The total value of the box lies at ca. 32,00 euros.

An overview to products found in the box:

Yoppy sexy glam EDP (30 mL)

It combines vibrant, floral notes with sensual and velvety flavors in an incomparably seductive fragrance. Whether in a little black dress at the romantic candle-light dinner or during an adventurous trips through the night, the intoxicating smell of Yoppy Sexy Glam conjoint passion and fascination. Price 5.95 €

Wellness & Beauty Duschshcaum with Vanille Extract and Macadamial oil (150 mL)

The velvety-soft shower gel gently cleanses and leaves a smooth and soft sensation. Price 2.99 €

Nonique Anti-Anging Eye cream (15 mL)

This eye cream is a luxury skin care from nature for highest claims. The rich anti-aging formula with selected bio-active ingriedients provides for a fresh and radiant eye area. Nonique "Naturkosmetik" fights against dryness, fine lines and loss of elasticity. Price ca. 6 €

Rival de Loop Clean & Care Soap free wash gel (150 mL) 

This soap-free wash gel is pH- neutral on skin and is developed specially for gentle and daily cleansing of Normal and mixed skin. The pleasant creamy foam efficiently clears Make-up, and excessive sebum and dirt . Price 0.99 €

Merz Spezial Beauty Talent Intensivkonzentrat (75 mL)

Stretch -marks, wrinkles or scars??? The innovation: Merz Spezial Beauty Talent.

Clinically proven effects are observed after 12 weeks continuous use. It reduces appearance of Stretch marks, wrinkles and scars. Improves skin texture by reducing unevenness. Moisturises intensively and smoothens dry skin. Ideal for face and body. Price ca. 10 €

Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Royal and Absolutely unique! Like a princess, the mascara is embossed with a wonderful evening gown. The new lash princess mascara with specially formed "Cobra-brush" wraps every single eyelash and creates dazzling volume with great swing. An intensive impact for eyelashes!! Price 3.25 €

Rival de Loop Eyeshadow duo No. 03 black diamond

The velvety texture of the eyeshadow allows easy application and provides a fine skin feeling. The colour of the eyeshadow duo is fine and passes very well with each other in a harmonic combination. The eyeshadow also features long-lasting properties. Price 2.49 €

Conclusion

The highlight of this box for me is definitely the Merz Spezial beauty talent and have started using it. Hopefully I'll observe some definite changes. I have already been using Rival de Loop wash gel for quite sometime and recommend it whole heartedly. It the best wash gel in my eyes apart from the one from essence. Nonique is the brand that I don't know and would like to test this herbal product. The eye-shadow and shower gel are other  useful products that one can  require anytime. The mascara, have heard a lot of positive reviews, so it belongs to my make-up collection and eager to test it too. The packaging is truly eye-catching. :-* The  perfume is the only thing that I wouldn't invest my money in and would gift to my friend or someone. Unfortunately, I couldn't relate to its odor and don't think it identifies completely to what it claims.

Overall, I am deeply satisfied with the range of product provided in the box. I could apparently use all of them in a good way. At this moment, I would like to thank Rossmann for their efforts for bringing out such an interesting, lovely and useful box. Three cheers to Rossmann!! :-*

"Make your statement" with Beauty UK blush and Brush

Helloooo Beauties,

In the last month I have tested all sorts of cosmetic products ranging from, eye-shadows, blushes , mascaras etc. And now I would like to introduce you to all the products that I tested in the past month. Begining with the beauty UK blush and brush no. 4 "rustic Peach". It was sent to me for review from beautytester.de a couple of weeks ago. Since then I have been wearing this peachy-gold shimmery blush quite often. The blush itself comes with an embossing "Make your statement". It is the first thing that intantly grabbed my eyes apart from the beautiful colour.

The blush comes in a black plastic case with a small applicator brush. Well, to be honest, brush doesn't do much and is completely useless for me. But it may be quite handy for beginners or if you do not have special brsuhes to use it. This peachy blush has gold shimmer particles which provide a glossy pinkish-orange finish after application. Mind you the blush is very pigmented and just a hint of this powder blush works wonder and freshens up your look. The swatch picture on the left shows a gentle single swipe of he blush. So you can imagine how good it is pigmentated. I am glad that I got to test this beautiful blush.:-D

It is suitable for every special occassion and if you apply it very gently then it might replace your routine blush for daily use.

The 5g product is available at beautyUKcosmetics.com and www.shades-of-pink.de for ca. 4.00 euros. It's worth a buy!!

Have you tried it? Then please share your thoughts and Tell me how you liked it....

Banana Chocolate Muffins

Heya,

It's cooking time or more precisely baking time. Yesterday, my son completed 6 months in this beautiful world and to celebrate his milestone, I decided to bake "Banana Chocolate muffins". Well honestly, I have baked muffins (the very basic and simple ones) before but with the combo of banana and chocolate is something new for me. I was suspicious if I could get the right amount of banana into the muffins :-/. If I would add more bananas the batter will become very dense and might not rise properly and if I add less then it would not give me the desired flavour. But I have to make and bake them, Hmmm! So here is the look before they went into the oven

And OMG! I made the perfect muffins. :-)

If you also want to try them out, then here is my recipe. 

Preparation time: 

35-40 minutes (for 12 Muffins)

Ingredients:

Self-raising flour: 2 cups

Sugar: 1/2 cup

Eggs: 2 (medium sized)

Bananas (ripened): 3 large (mashed)

Cooking oil (or butter or margarine): ca. 100 ml 

Milk: ca. 70 ml

Chocolate chips: ca. 1 cup

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 180 °C. Mix self-raising flour and sugar in a bowl. Beat eggs, cooking oil, mashed bananas and milk together in a separate bowl. Gently whisk the two mixtures together and stir in 3/4 cups of chocolate chips. Line 12 muffin cups in a baking tray and spoon the mix equally to each cup about 3/4th full. Place the rest of the chocolate chips on top and bake for 20 minutes or until the batter doesn't stick to the toothpick (when pricked in the centre of the cupcake). Cool them on the wired rack and enjoy 12 awesomely delicious banana-chocolate muffins. :-)

Try this yummy treat yourself for any occasion or festivity.

For more delicacies and yummy recipes, stay tuned!

Till then....

Keep Smiling!

Essence Pure Skin Anti- Spot Toner & Powder

Hello beauties,

Hope you all are doing good and enjoying life :-)

Today I introduce you to my all time favourite toner (gesichtwasser) that fights pickel and spots on face. This one is from Essence Pure Skin range, namely, anti-spot toner & powder (anti-pickel gesichtwasser & puder) and costs 2.25 € for a 200 ml bottle at Rossmann.

The Essence pure skin anti-spot toner & powder is essentially a liquid like any other toner or cleansing liquid but has an anti-bacterial powder sitting at the bottom (see picture). Shake the bottle well before use and the powder gets miscible with the water. The powder in this facial toner efficiently absorbs excess oil from skin, thereby cleansing and mattifying the skin.  The CLEARDERM complex consisting of salicylic acid and allantoin aids in reducing pimples and any spots leading to them. It also helps to get rid of blackheads and evens out the skin.

For those who don't know about the above mentioned two main ingredients of the CLEARDERM complex, here's a quick information:

1) Salicyclic acid is common in topical anti-acne products because of its direct effect on skin cells. It causes cells of epidermis to shed easily, which opens the clogged pores and bacteria within are neutralised. It also constricts the pore size so that new cell growth is increased providing healthy skin.

2) Allantoin on the other hand has moisturising  and wound healing properties and soothes irritating skin

Application: I have a combination skin and I apply this toner all over your face daily after night time cleansing routine. using a cotton pad.  However, recommended is to use it every morning and night after cleansing routine.

Well, I have been using this product for about two weeks now and I could definitely feel the change in my skin texture. It is much smoother and even. It doesn't burn or irritate my skin at all and has a slight sweet smell. I don't get pimples that often and when I do get even a slight eruption , it easily fades off within a day. 

I am very satisfied with this product and recommend it whole-heartedly to everyone suffering from breakouts every now and then or with very oily skin. So far, it is the most efficient toner for me as my skin feels fresh and supple even the next morning. 

P.S. I do moisturise my skin after cleansing & toning routine. Moisturising is so very important ;-)

Do you have experience with this product or with similar product/s? Please do share your views :-)

Till next time.....

Have a good day!

Keep Smiling :-)

Essence Trend Edition: " 24h Hand Protection Balm - Cake Pops"

A big hello to all you beauties,

Today I would like to introduce you to the upcoming trend edition from essence focusing on our beautiful and dutiful hands. 

So here it is,

The new essence trend edition “24h hand protection balm – cake pops” is dedicated to the cute patisserie creations which are Small, round, colourful and absolutely delicious. Cake pops come in various shapes and sizes and are lovingly decorated with icing, sugar beads or sprinkles. And so does the new and beautifully designed hand-balms which are now available in the scrumptious cake pop fragrances vanilla & cinnamon, cherry & coconut as well as cookies & almond. Enriched with ingredients like Shea butter and coconut oil, these essence hand-balms provide dry, chapped hands with intensive moisture and leave your hands feeling wonderfully soft.  The 24-hour formula is absorbed super-fast and won’t leave an oily film behind on your skin. 

Pampering and a lovely fragrance for your hands… with Essence!

essence 24h hand protection balm –

vanilla & cinnamon

The aromatic mixture of vanilla & cinnamon combined with the tried-and -tested 24 h formula ensures long-lasting protection. This dessert dream is simply irresistible and is an absolute must-have this season. 

essence 24h hand protection balm –

cherry & coconut

This hand cream creation is a real fragrance sensation. Fruity cherry and exotic coconut unites as an absolute dream team! And nourishing care doesn’t fall short either :-) This fruity flavour optimally replenishes your hands with plenty of moisture, even at low winter temperatures.

essence 24h hand protection balm –

cookies & almond

The combination of a delicious cookie and bittersweet almond scent is irresistible and provides an absolute fragrance experience whenever you apply the balm. With this pastry party, say "Goodbye" to chapped hands!

Essence “24h hand protection balm – cake pops” will be available in stores from October to December 2014. Recommended price : 1.99€ each

WOW! What a fragrant and flavourful collection of hand-balms. These hand-balms are just tailor made for me as I loooovvvveeee the goodness of Shea butter. And of course, the coconut oil is my typical (indian) home remedy to combat dryness.

My countdown for october has started :-D

And yours???

Do write me in if these hand-balms attends to your expectation!

Till next time

Keep Smiling :-)

Baby News #1: Congratulations! You're Pregnant :-)

Hello Everyone,

Yahh...It's been 5 good months since I delivered my cute little sunshine and the apple of my eyes and now I have started getting some time for myself and pursue my hobbies. So here am I sharing with you all the most pleasurable experience of my life: Pregnancy and Motherhood :-D

Last year when I conceived my first ever baby, me and my hubby were so excited but my family at the same time was skeptical (like every other Indian family) about delivering in Germany. So we did our bit of research and decided to deliver in Germany only. I know many of my friends find it extremely and extraordinarily challenging task to deliver here. On the contrary, I feel it's lot more convenient and not at all difficult to manage as doctors and midwives help you understand (by providing logical reasons) all the biological changes taking place in your body and surroundings. Henceforth, all your myths are cleared and queries answered. So here are some facts and things to do regarding pregnancy and delivering in Germany. 

Facts from my experience:

As soon as you discover that you might be pregnant, visit a gynecologist (Frauenarzt). Generally, the earliest appointment you will get is from 8 weeks on-wards because this is only time your gynecologist can perform an Ultrasound (Ultraschall) to confirm a viable embryo. Once the pregnancy is confirmed, the doctor will issue you a Mutter-pass, a booklet which showcases every information related to your pregnancy. It is advisable to carry your mutter-pass even for the shortest distance you travel as in case of emergency your situation could be better followed. Thereafter, you will be scheduled for regular checkup after every four weeks (depending upon baby development). The regular check-up will include measurement of blood pressure, blood profile, weight, size of your belly, sugar level (only in 2nd trimester). However, further major ultrasound scanning will only be done twice i.e once in 2nd trimester and the last in 3rd trimester. Of course, if your doctor observe any complication then they might do an additional one's for which you don't have to pay. Otherwise, any other ultrasound would be at your own cost and will not be covered by you insurance agency. Ohh ya, most important thing, at one your ultrasounds (around late 2nd or 3rd trimester), you have an opportunity to see your baby in complete action with a 3D- ultrasound. At this time, you may also know the gender of your baby (if you wish!) So, men please do join your ladies and enjoy the sheer joy and happiness of your cutiepie. Trust me, it is an overwhelming experience even before the birth of your child that you will never forget. 

These monthly checkups will continue until 30th-32nd week of pregnancy. That's right, in Germany pregnancy is counted on week-basis and not on month basis. After which you will be required to visit your doctor every two weeks. From this time around, your doctor will have your first CTG (Cardiotocography) written. This will monitor the fetal heartbeat, activity of your growing baby and the uterine contractions. This will be done at every doctor's appointment and even in the clinic/hospital until the your baby is born. 

Things to know:

During your pregnancy, apart from routine diagnosis/checkup, your gynecologist may suggest you some other tests for which you have to bear the cost. Depending on your health insurance company (krankenkasse), these tests may be partially refunded or covered. These tests includes, toxoplamose, triple test for down's syndrome, Zytomelagie, Streptokokken B, Glucose-Test (for diabetics) etc. All gynaecs are obliged to provide this information immediately after confirmation of viable pregnancy. Personally, you don't need to do triple test at all or for that matter any test for chromosomal abnormality. Your gynaec will surely inform you if they notice any abnormal development. However, I do recommend you to undertake Streptokokken-B test because if in case you are detected with infection then at the time of delivery medication will be give to protect your baby from getting infected. This is the only test that make sense and is recommended to ensure safe delivery of your baby.

Okay! Now you know the  basics of being pregnant in Germany. But there are lots more to prepare for and know about, Which I will be mentioning in my next post.

So keep a check for my Baby News #2!

Till then...

Keep Smiling :-)

"Herzstücke": New Limited Edition from Rossmann

"Herzstücke" (English: HeartPieces) are things that are very important to us and are taken to the heart. Therefore, it is the name of the new Limited Edition of Alterra naturkosmetik. And today, I'd like to introduce you the world of beautiful and varied eyeshadow Quattros, baked blush and bronzer to give great accents to your face. To round off the make-up, last but definitely not the least, Lipgloss in two chic nuances- a bright pink and a subtle coral.

Here's a quick look at the limited edition sortiment:

Alterra "Herzstücke"Quattro Eyeshadows

Baked eyeshadows are particularly intense in color and can be applied dry or wet. The four shades of each of the two eyeshadows are color coordinated and have natural, reflecting pigments. 

Nuances: 

01 Götterspeise (vegan), Weight: 2 g, Price: € 4.79

02 Eisbecher, Weight: 2 g, Price: € 4.79

Alterra "Herzstücke" Rouge 

The Rouge conjures delicate shimmering highlights on your cheeks. Since it is baked, it has a particularly great color output and also smells deliciously of coconut. 

Nuance 01 Cake pop, Weight: 10 g, Price: € 3.99 

Alterra "Herzstücke" Bronzer

With its baked and scented coconut texture, the bronzer provides a great marbling effect. It is ideal for setting highlights and gives your makeup a naturally tanned looking finish. 

Nuances 01 marble cake (vegan), Weight: 10 g, Price: € 3.99 

Alterra "Herzstücke" Lip gloss 

These two lip glosses in flavour of raspberry and orange, smells totally delicious . Your lips will not only be enriched with a beautiful and subtle color, but will also remain soft and supple owing to nourishment from berry wax, coconut oil and carnauba wax. 

Nuances: 

01 Himbeer-Joghurt, Capacity: 15 ml, Price: € 2.99

02 Orangencreme, Capacity: 15 ml, Price: € 2.99

This LE should now be available at your nearby Rossmann shop. 

And I, being a naturkosmetik (natural cosmetics) fan, would definitely grab myself the quattros. They just suit my taste completely. Rouge and bronzer definitely look appealing but at present I don't have any urgency to buy them. But you never know, an implusive and compulsive shopper like me might end up picking them too ;-). I am not a lip- gloss fan..so they will not be in my basket for sure.

How do you like this new collection? Have you already fetched yourself this LE? What's more interesting for you in this LE?

Do leave me a comment and yeahhh....don't forget to subscribe :-)

Tie to doze off now... see you soon...

till then... KEEP SMILING :-)