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 :-)

Garnier Ambre Solaire "WET SKIN" Sunscreen-spray

After a long wait and lost hope , Yesterday I received my Test-Packet from Garnier. I am so very excited to test the new sunscreen spray from Garnier Ambre Solaire "WET Skin" with LSF/FPS 30. Although, through out the last week, the weather has been so crap and its raining cats and dogs. But the little sunshine that came in spurts gave me full opportunity to test my new sunscreen spray. So here is my small and quick review about it.

Garnier Ambre Solaire "WET Skin"

Packed in a white bottle with a yellow spraying nozzle, it does catch eyes instantly and gives you a definite summer feeling. A quantitative description of the product and all information viz.a.viz. ingredients are mentioned on the bottle. The sunscreen can be sprayed either on wet or dry skin, is waster resistant and provides protection against photostable UVA rays. 

The product....

The sunscreen (liquid) can be easily sprayed through the nozzle and spread evenly on the skin when applied from a little distance (say about 15 cm). It smells fresh and pleasant and so does the skin feels after application. The transparent liquid is easily absorbed when applied on the wet skin (i.e. right after bath or on damp skin). When applied on dry skin, I have to massage for a while till it gets absorbed or else it is very sticky and greasy like every other sunscreen creams or lotions. Therefore, I preferred to apply it on Wet Skin...I guess that's why WET is written in bold letters on the bottle ;-) 

However, upon repeated application i.e. after 4 hours (out in the sun), it never felt sticky. Well,, that's surprisingly good!

If it leaves any marks on the clothes?

NOPE!

Does the LSF/FPS 30 works? 

Absolutely Yes! But that doesn't mean 100% protection from the strong afternoon sun. So, avoid strong sun and that's Logical!

Advises? 

Definitely! Apply it several times a day for increased protection against sun-rays especially, if you sweat alot or go swimming. Normally as well, When outside in sun, I would also spray it on after every 3-4 hours just to protect from sun burn or tan. And ofcourse, DO NOT USE IT ON FACE or IRRITATED SKIN!

The only flaw....

is imparted greasiness on dry skin.

Would I recommend? 

Ohhh Yaaaa! It is absolutely great and quick in terms of use. I mean, take the cap off and spray it all over immediately after shower... Isn't it less time consuming as against dabbing creme from head to toe.  More importantly, I feel fresh and rejuvenated even after repeated application. 

It is indeed an ideal must-have for water-lovers or swimmers. I give it a THUMBS UP :-)

So next time you go swimming, BAG IT UP! 

Subscribe for more cool reviews and infos! 

Keep Smiling :-)

Limited Edition “Feathered Fall“ by CATRICE

The fashion world is flocking to the trend of the coming Fall/Winter season: magical feathers adorn the new designer collections. From subtle applications to opulent, flouncing hemlines – marabou, ostrich or peacock feathers can be seen on all of the catwalks in the big cities. Combined with dazzling fabrics and iridescent effects, the resulting look is feminine, sensual and extremely glamorous with a touch of fashionable finesse.

The Limited Edition “Feathered Fall” by CATRICE offers feather-inspired beauty products, which will be available from the end of September until the beginning of November 2014.

Thirteen new beauty products are coming in the trendy fall colours almond, gold, blue-grey, petrol, aubergine and rosé. These include Eyeshadows with a gorgeous 3D-feather embossment, the Morphing Lip Gloss with ultra-soft, golden pigments as well as the Feathery Top Coat for trendy effects on your nails. 

Following new products will part of CATRICE's Limited Edition- "Feathered Fall"

Luxury Eyeshadow

Spread your wings.The powder eyeshadow with a high pigmentation puts your eyes in the spotlight with its shimmering effects. You have a choice of two subtle favourites, gold and almond, as well as two bold trend colours, petrol and aubergine. At the same time, the pretty 3D embossment and stylish packaging with a feather print is extremely pleasing to the eye. Available in C01 Peacocktail, C02 Plum Plumes, C03 Ostrich’s Frock and C04 Plain Plumage.

Estimated Price: 3.49 euro

Liquid Eye Liner

Whether curved or straight, this Liquid Eye Liner with an iridescent chameleon effect creates an expressive, innovative frame for your eye make-up. The liquid texture is highly pigmented and shimmers in the most beautiful purple and blue shades. Available in C01 Peacocktail. 

Estimated Price: 3.79 euro

Morphing Lip Gloss

Colour is in the air. This lipgloss creates gorgeous colour effects on your lips with its

soft golden pigments. The gloss is ultra-shiny and feels wonderfully pleasant on the sensitive skin on your lips. Available in C01 Golden Plum-e. 

Estimated Price: 3.49 euro

Sheer Lip Colour

As light as a feather. With its unique gel-like texture, the Sheer Lip Colour feels amazingly soft on your lips and offers a subtle, slightly glossy finish. Pure colour  pigments make your lips shine in a choice of nude, Bordeaux or a mix of plum and aubergine. Available in C01 Plain Plumage, C02 Red-y To Fly and C03 Plum Plumes. 

Estimated Price: 3.99 euro

Luxury Lacquer

Peacock’s plumage. It doesn’t get much more splendid than this. The three limited nail polish colours not only come in their very own artistic bottle with a feather print, their brilliant performance is also extremely convincing. You have a choice of shimmering plum gold, metallic blue-violet-grey and iridescent petrol–always with ultimate coverage. Available in C01 Golden Plum-e, C02 Peacocktail and C03 Skie’s Force.

Estimated Price: 3.49 euro

Feathery Top Coat

Adornment. The transparent texture of the Feathery Top Coat contains ultra-fine metallic, greenish blue, shimmering particles that create a feathery 3D effect on your nails. Whether used on its own or on top of colour nail polish, this finish looks as fabulous on your nails as an elegant haute couture robe. Available in C01 Feathery Fact.

Estimated Price: 3.49 euro

In this new limited edition, there is something for every beautiful girl/women/lady. So, Get set go :-)

Natürlich schön mit Naturkosmetik

Hallo Beauties,

diesmal dreht sich alles um das Thema Naturkosmetik und gleich die Naturkosmetik-Marken Alterra, lavera, Nonique, Weleda und Dr.Scheller vorstellen. 

Aber, was verbirgt sich eigentlich dahinter?

Sagt Rossmann, "Da „Naturkosmetik“ kein geschützter Begriff ist, lohnt ein genauer Blick auf die Verpackung des gewünschten Produkts. Zertifizierte Naturkosmetik erkennst du nämlich an den Siegeln auf der Verpackung."

Bei zertifizierter Naturkosmetik ist der Einsatz synthetischer Inhaltsstoffe, wie beispielsweise Silikone, chemischer Duftstoffe, Paraffine und anderer Erdölprodukte, ausgeschlossen. Neben natürlichen Fetten, Ölen und Wachsen kommen ätherische Öle, Kräuterextrakte und Blütenessenzen zum Einsatz.

Nun zum Naturkosmetik-Marken :-)

ALTERRA

       

Mit Alterra erlebt deine Haut spürbare Natürlichkeit. Hochwertige Inhaltsstoffe aus der Natur verleihen den Naturkosmetikprodukten ihre besonders pflegenden Eigenschaften und hervorragende Verträglichkeit  - für jeden Haut- und jeden Farbtyp ist etwas dabei.

Alterra Cremeseife Lavendel & Bio-Malve

Die nach Lavendel duftende Seife reinigt und pflegt die Hände sanft und schonend mit milden Waschsubstanzen, Bio-Malvenextrakt und feuchtigkeitsspendendem Glycerin.

Füllmenge: 300 ml        I        Preis: 1,35 €

Alterra Hydro Tagescreme Bio-Traube & Bio-Weisser Tee

Der Hydrokomplex mit Hyaluronsäure und Pentavitin® versorgt die Haut mit Feuchtigkeit. In Kombination mit Bio-Weisser Tee-Extrakt wirkt die Creme ersten Anzeichen von Hautalterung und ersten Fältchen entgegen. Sie pflegt zusätzlich mit hochwertigem Bio-Olivenöl, Bio-Sheabutter und Bio-Traubenkernextrakt.

Füllmenge: 50 ml        I        Preis: 3,25 €

Alterra Kompaktpuder in  01 light und  02 medium

Die mikrofeine Struktur sorgt für einen matten Teint und kaschiert kleine Unreinheiten und Fältchen. Mit integriertem Spiegel und Quaste ist das Puder ideal für unterwegs.

Füllmenge: 10 g         I        Preis: 3,79 €

Alterra SOS Lippenpflege Bio-Granatapfel

Die Lippenpflege ist angenehm reichhaltig, schützt die Lippen vor dem Austrocknen und pflegt sie geschmeidig durch die Kombination mit Bio-Jojobaöl und Vitamin E.

Füllmenge: 4,5 g        I        Preis: 1,15 €

Alle Produkte (bis auf Kompaktpuder 02 medium) sind vegan. Alterra ist NATRUE-zertifiziert und tierversuchsfrei.

LAVERA

Pink Energy Duschgel - Limited Edition

Die Feuchtigkeitsformel mit pflanzlichem Glycerin, Feuchtigkeitsfaktoren auf Weizenbasis und Betain schützt die Haut schon beim Duschen vor dem Austrocknen.

Füllmenge: 150 ml        I         UVP: 3,95 €

Pink Energy Körperfluid - Limited Edition

Mit Bio-Pink Grapefruit & Bio-Pink Pepper enthält eine leichte Formel mit Bio-Sonnenblumenöl, Bio-Sheabutter und pflanzlichen Feuchtigkeitsfaktore und zieht schnell ein. Mit Bio-Pflanzen-Inhaltsstoffen aus eigener Herstellung.

Füllmenge:  150 ml       I        UVP: 5,95 €

basis sensitiv Reinigungsmilch 2 in 1

Mit Bio-Jojoba & Bio-Sheabutter. Gesichtsreinigung und Make-up-Entferner in Einem: die sanfte Milch reinigt intensiv und pflegt zugleich mit Bio-Ölen. Auch für den empfindlichen Augenbereich geeignet.

Füllmenge: 125 ml        I        UVP: 5,49 €

basis sensitiv Handcreme

Mit Bio-Mandelöl und Bio-Sheabutter. Schützt die Hände auch bei starker Beanspruchung und versorgt sie mit der notwendigen Feuchtigkeit. Wirksamer Bio-Kamillenextrakt beruhigt und pflegt die Haut.

Füllmenge: 100 ml        I         UVP: 2,99 €

Colour Correction 8 in 1 Pflege

Anti-Aging-Pflege und Make-up in Einem. Die Feuchtigkeitspflege verleiht einen ebenmäßigen Teint und deckt Unregelmäßigkeiten ab. Pigmentflecken werden bei regelmäßiger Anwendung vorgebeugt und sichtbar aufgehellt, die Konturen werden gestrafft und Falten gemindert. Der Lichtschutzfaktor schützt vor Hautalterung. Ausgewählte Inhaltsstoffe schützen vor freien Radikalen.

Füllmenge: 30 ml        I         UVP: 11,99 €

Alle Produkte sind vegan, NATRUE-zertifiziert und enthalten Bio-Pflanzen-Inhaltsstoffe aus eigener Herstellung. lavera verzichtet auf Tierversuche.

NONIQUE

       

Anti Aging Nachtcreme

Mit BIO Noni, BIO Aloe Vera, BIO Granatapfel, BIO Acai und BIO Nachtkerzenöl. Eine hochwertige Pflege für trockene und beanspruchte Haut.

Füllmenge: 50 ml        I        UVP: 6,95 €

Anti Aging Waschcreme

Enthält viele pflegende Inhaltsstoffe, wie z.b. BIO Sheabutter und BIO Hagebuttenkernöl. Diese werden mit BIO Noni Blättern, BIO Aloe Vera, BIO Granatapfel und BIO Acai Beeren kombiniert und reinigen das Gesicht zugleich.

Füllmenge: 100 ml        I        UVP: 3,95 €

Anti Aging Tagescreme

Mit BIO Noni, BIO Aloe Vera, BIO Granatapfel, BIO Acai und BIO Hagebutte. Eine Anti Aging Gesichtspflege für trockene und anspruchsvolle Haut.

Füllmenge: 50 ml        I        UVP: 6,95 €

Anti Aging Augenpflege

Pflegt mit BIO Inhaltsstoffen wie BIO Noni Pflanze, BIO Aloe Vera, BIO Granatapfel, BIO Acai Beere und BIO Sheabutter. Trockene und anspruchsvolle Haut wird niveauvoll gepflegt und aufgebaut.

Füllmenge: 15 ml        I        UVP: 5,95 €

Alle Produkte sind frei von Inhaltsstoffen auf Mineralölbasis & Erdölkomponenten und enthalten keine Paraffine, Parabene, PEGs, Silikone oder künstliche & synthetische Duft- & Farbstoffe. Nonique wird nicht an Tieren getestet.

WELEDA SEIT 1921

Hafer Aufbau - Shampoo

Reinigt mild, glättet die Haaroberfläche und mindert Haarbruch und Spliss. Mit Bio-Jojobaöl und Extrakten aus Bio-Hafer und Bio-Salbei gibt es dem Haar seinen natürlichen Glanz zurück. Das Aroma der Tonkabohne, Mimose und Zedernholz lassen die Hafer Pflegeprodukte duften.

Füllmenge: 190 ml        I        UVP: 6,95 €

Hafer Aufbau - Kur

Enthält Bio-Jojobaöl, Bio-Kokosöl und Sheabutter, die das Haar kräftigen und nähren, ohne es zu beschweren. Die gehaltvolle Komposition unterstützt den Feuchtigkeitshaushalt der Haare. Frei von Silikonen und sulfathaltigen Tensiden.

Füllmenge: 20 ml        I        UVP: 1,95 €

Citrus Erfrischende Feuchtigkeitslotion

Die wertvolle Komposition mit Bio-Aloe Vera, Kokosöl und Sesamöl versorgt die Haut mit Feuchtigkeit und pflegt sie. Die Zitrone reguliert den Feuchtigkeitshaushalt und erfrischt.

Füllmenge: 200 ml       I        UVP: 9,95 €

Granatapfel Schönheitsdusche

Duft von Sandelholz, Davana, Neroli und Blutorange. Milde Zuckertenside reinigen die Haut besonders sanft und pflegen sie mit wertvollen Ölen aus Granatapfelsamen, Macadamianüssen

und Sesam. Reich an ungesättigten Fettsäuren. Bewahrt die natürliche Feuchtigkeit der Haut und schützt sie vor dem Austrocknen.

Füllmenge: 200 ml       I        UVP: 7,95 €

Sandorn Handcreme 

Das Sanddornöl ist reich an natürlichem Vitamin C und ungesättigten Fettsäuren. Es schützt so die Haut und das Nagelbett vor Fett- und Feuchtigkeitsverlust. Mit leichtem Sesamöl reguliert sie das gesunde Gleichgewicht der Haut. Sie ist frei von synthetischen Duft-, Farb- und Konservierungsstoffen und enthält keine Rohstoffe auf Mineralölbasis.

Füllmenge: 50 ml        I        UVP: 6,45 €

Weder bei der Herstellung noch bei der Entwicklung werden Tierversuche durchgeführt oder in Auftrag gegeben. Weleda verzichtet konsequent auf synthetische Farb- und Duftstoffe sowie Silikone, Paraffine, andere Erdölprodukte und synthetische Fette.

      Dr.SCHELLER NATURAL & EFFECTIVE

       Tages- und Nachtpflege Arganöl & Amaranth

Mit marokkanischem Arganöl und Amaranth-Extrakt. Arganöl wird aus den Fruchtkernen des Arganbaums gewonnen. Es glättet und strafft die Haut und hält sie geschmeidig. Amaranthsamenextrakt fördert die Hautelastizität und reduziert (auch erste) Falten.

Füllmenge: je 50 ml        I        UVP Tagescreme: 11,95 €        UVP Nachtcreme: 12,95 €

Bevorzugt eingesetzt werden Rohstoffe aus kontrolliertem biologischem Anbau oder nachwachsenden Wildsammlungen. Alle Dr. Scheller Gesichtspflege-Produkte tragen das BDIH - Siegel. Sie beinhalten rein natürliche PhytoSolve und sind frei von Silikonen, Mineralölen, synthetischen Farbstoffen und Parabenen. Sie haben umweltfreundliche Verpackungen und sind frei von Tierversuchen.

Wie ich es finde?

Also, ich finde so wie so das Thema Naturkosmetik sehr intressant und eigentlich umweltfreundlich. Auch vielen von uns leiden unter unverträglichkeit von chemische inhaltstoffe, daswegen ist die naturkosmetik besonders wichtig und empfehlenswert.

Selbst  zur Zeit benutze ich Weleda Produkte für mich und auch für mein kleiner, und die sind echt klasse. Ab und zu habe ich auch mal Alterra produkte ausprobiert und ja, einige so wie der Tagescreme und auch die dekorative kosmetik gefällt mir sehr gut. Die anderen Marken muss ich noch ausprobieren und erst danach euch darüber berichten kann. Die Preis-leistung finde ich auch fair, da es um wertvolle natürliche inhaltsstoffe handelt.

Habt ihr auch die Naturkosmetik ausprobiert?? Welche und wie gefällt die euch?

[Quick Tip] Luscious Pink Lips

A big and warm hello to all the beauties out there,

The weekend is over and we are again back to work. And for another week there is little less time to pamper ourselves. But for this beauty ritual, you could definitely buy 5 minutes from your busy schedule. In my last post I talked about how you can achieve healthy glowing blemish free skin. However, in today's post [as u can guess ;-)], it's all about Lips. Make these lovely twins look more gorgeous, beautiful, supple and Pink using this DIY lipcare.

First up is my favourite Sugar scrub for lips, everyone knows about it (I guess!) But for those who don't, this is what you need to do. 

PREPARE SCRUB: 

Mix Sugar (2tsp) and honey (1tsp) to mix a thick paste. Optionally, you may also add few drops of lemon juice and coconut or olive oil to the above mix. Now using a toothbrush [that's what I prefer ;-)], apply the mixture on to your lips.Scrub it for a minute and then wash off either with a damp cloth or just rinse with water. I would recommend you to use this scrub 2-3 times a week and at least for a month. Remember, your skin needs roughly a month to rejuvenate. 

FOLLOW UP FOR PINK LIPS: 

This is the best part :-D 

Did you ever thought of getting pink lips yourself at home... I definitely mean without any lipstick or coloured lip balm?? This is my DIY and all you need is "BEETROOT". BEETROOT is an amazing vegetable with lots of health benefits and a great food colourant. It's this staining property of beetroot that enriches and help you retain the luscious pink lips. Here's some ways to use it:

1) Just grate a beetroot and rub a few stripes directly on your lips.

2) Take a slice of beetroot and place in water for 5 mintues. Apply the coloured water onto your lips. Freeze it to make little ice cubes of this water & use it everyday ;-)

3) Alternatively, boil diced beetroot in little water (this is just to get the maximum colour pigment). Cool it off and put into ice tray and apply a little everyday. I would apply it every night before going to bed :-)

Follow any of these methods on regular basis for a month and you would surely see the difference yourself. 

So, head straight to your kitchen or grocery store and pamper yourself without spending a million bucks!

Stay tuned in and subscribe or follow me on facebook for more DIY beauty tips :-)

Beauty Secrets: Home Remedy Skin Care #1

Hello all you lovely beauties,

Today's post is about showing off your skin and feeling beautiful in it. Yes we can look beautiful without makeup. All we need to do is to take care of our skin and guard it meticulously from pollution, sun-rays and also from our everyday makeup.

Being from India, where natural home remedies are prevalent and preferred  in every household, I share today a very common face-mask which cleanses the skin thoroughly, aids in reducing blemishes or pimples and improves overall skin texture.

Chickpea flour

FACE-MASK INGREDIENTS & BENEFITS:

Below mentioned ingredients could be easily found in any Indian or for that matter Asian shop in your city.

1) Chickpea flour or Gram flour ("Besan" in Hindi) has been used since ancient times as an exfoliator and detoxifies the skin.

2) Turmeric has also been used traditionally in India to cure and prevent many diseases. It's antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties has proven effective against many skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Turmeric Powder (yellow coloured)

3) Yoghurt again a great exfoliator. The lactic acid present in it exfoliates the skin and tightens the pores, a great anti-aging solution. A gentle dab of yoghurt on your face 2 or 3 times a week will relieve the sunburn. It's mild bleaching power aids in reducing discoloration. And finally, it natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties reduces appearance of pimples or acne.

Mixing all three provides a great face-mask that is not only a good exfoliator but also diminishes pigmentation and redness. It also reduces appearance of breakouts or acne leaving your skin rejuvenated, supple and toned.

Mixed with yoghurt and the face-mask is ready;-)

HOW TO PREPARE AND APPLY:

Mix Gram flour (4 tsp), turmeric (1 tsp) and yoghurt (just enough to make a paste) thoroughly to make a fine paste. Apply this paste all over your face, neck and back of the neck. Leave it to work 15-20 minutes. Put cucumber slices on your eyes and listen to your favourite  music ;-)..... relax completely! By now you will be feeling skin tightening sensation. After 15-20 minutes, remove the face-mask the using either a damp cloth or just washing off with water (preferably cold).

Are you feeling refreshed now?

Ohhh.....don't forget to moisturise your skin as you would do with every skin cleansing session :-)

Do try this out and let me know how you like it. 

Follow me or subscribe for more beauty tips and natural home remedies!

Have a healthy and beautiful weekend :-D

CATRICE's Made to Stay Lip polish

A couple of months ago, I received a packet from Cosnova and Konsumgoettinen to test Catrice's Made to stay Lip polish. The packet had two nuances of Lip polish, #020 Jen & Berry's and #050 Megan Fuschia. As a Lipstick fan, I was eager to know what's new this lip-polish has to provide. As per manufacturers, It is a unification of Lipstick colour, longetivity of a stain and shine of a gloss. All three chracteristics in one, what more can a women want ;-) After using it extensively, here's my opinion about them.

My First Impression:

Packaging: Shiny black plastic tube with the lip polish colour printed as a broad band on the top clearly mentioning the quality (up to 8H colour) is the easiest way to attract any women towards their favourite nuance. 

Application: With a gentle and smooth sponge applicator, the lip polish can be easily and accurately applied.

Colours: As seen in pictures below, #050 Megan fuschia is a beautiful and vibrant pink coloured lip polish with an undertone of red Whereas, #020 Jen &Berry's is more of a translucent magenta (blackcurrant) colour.

Catrice's Made to Stay Lip Polish texture on Hand & Lips
On left is #020 Jen& Berry's and on right is #050 Megan fuschia

The Bottom Line:

Catrice's Made to stay Lip-Polish is a true innovation that gives your lips rich shiny colour that lasts longer than any lip-gloss or lip-stick for that matter. If for complete 8 hours shine and colour? No, I don't think so! The subtle shine lasts only for a couple of hour, however my lips remained stained definitely for more than 5 hours. Neither did these Lip polishes dried out or appeared cracked nor did they felt greasy as with many lip glosses. My lips looked elegant and felt so supple. Catrice's Made to stay Lip Polish is an absolute 3-in-1 solution for long-lasting brilliantly coloured and pleasant lips. Although, I liked this new concept but I still prefer long-lasting lipsticks instead. :-)

P.S. Apart from these two colours, Lip polishes are also available in another 4 colours with #070 Red-volution being the latest on the shelf and are priced at 4.99 euros for 6 ml.

What's your opinion about them? Do leave me a comment :-)

DIY NAIL ART: "I love Polka Dots" :-)

Hallo my lovelies,

It's a gloomy day as it has been raining since morning :-( So I decided to cheer up myself with this bright orange and black nail art.

It is an easy nail art for which you need a dotting tool or any household item like a ball point pen... that's what I used to get my dots ;-) and to create lovely polka dots. 

For this beautiful nail art I used Essence colour & go Nail polish #145 flashy pumpkin and #59 Black is Black (from my last year's collection).

How do you like it?

Sporty yet Chic: Neue Duftlinie von Tom Tailor

Hallihalloooo,

heute vorstelle ich eine neue duft für frauen die Sporty und chic seid. 

Der neue Duft "College Sport" von TOM TAILOR.

TOM TAILOR feiert jetzt das Comeback des amerikanischen College-Feelings mit einer Duftlinie, die für einen sportlichen, lässigen und modernen Lifestyle steht. Inspiriert durch das legendäre Flair des amerikanischen College Sports, ist ein Duft entstanden, der sportliche Frische raffiniert mit einem Hauch Preppy-Chic kombiniert.

Akkorde von Bergamotte und Orange in der Kopfnote sorgen für einen frischen Auftakt. Die blumigen Aromen der Orangenblüte und Orris vereinen sich in der Herznote und verleihen dem Duft einen stilvollen und unbeschwerten Charakter. Die Basisnote aus Ambra, Moschus und Vanille komplettiert den Duft und bildet einen warmen, orientalischen Fond.

Duftnote:

•        Top Note: Bergamotte, Orange

•        Herznote: Orangenblüte, Orris

•        Fond: Ambra, Moschus, Vanille

Füllmenge: 50 ml EdT

Preis: UVP 19,90 €

Den neuen Duft findest du ab Mitte August in euren Rossmann Filialen!

Fingerless Mittens for Beginners

Winters are still far off but preparing for them isn't a bad idea. So I planned to knit fingerless mittens during the weekend. Fingerless mittens because not only the mitten keeps hands warm but also set your fingers free to operate any devices (Smartphone in his case).

So I hit off with a trendy green colour yarn and ended up with this beautiful looking mitten. For the pattern of the mitten, follow these directions,

KEY TERMS: 

K: knit, P: Purl, Kfb: knit front to back

PATTERN: 

Step 1: Cast on 36 stitches on straight needles
Step 2: Work K2, P2 ribbing for 4 inches or for desired length(this will create the base of the mitten that fits around your wrist)
Step 3: K next row while evenly  increasing 4 stitches (total 40 stitches)
Step 4: P entire row
Step 5: K entire row
Step 6: K18, Kfb, K2, Kfb, K18 (thumb increase)
Step 7: K entire row
Step 8: P entire row
Step 9: K entire row
Step 10: K18, Kfb, K4, Kfb, K18
Step 11: K entire row
Step 12: P entire row
Step 13: K entire row
Step 14: K18, Kfb, K6, Kfb, K18
Step 15: K entire row
Step 16: Purl entire row
Step 17: K entire row
Step 18: K18, Kfb, K8, Kfb, K18
Step 19: K entire row
Step 20: P entire row
Step 21: K entire row
Step 22: K18, Kfb, K10, Kfb, K18
Step 23: K entire row
Step 24: P entire row
Step 25: K 18 and place them onto holder or another needle (Set 1), continue knitting next 14 stitches (Set 2), Knit the remaining 18 stitches and place them onto holder or another needle (Set 3).

SHAPING UP MITTEN:

WORKING WITH SET 2 (14 stitches):
Step 26: K row
Step 27: P row
Step 28: Work K2, P2 ribbing for next four rows and bind off little loosely.

WORKING WITH SET 1 (18 stitches):
Step 29: K18 
Step 30: K row
Step 31: P row
Step 32: Work K2, P2  ribbing for next four rows and bind off loosely

WORKING WITH SET 3 (18 stitches):
Step 33: K 18
Step 34: K row
Step 34: P row
Step 35: Work K2, P2 ribbing for next four rows and bind off loosely.

FINISH OFF by sewing the open ends tightly.

Make the another mitten following the same pattern and you are done.

SO EASY IT IS! :-)