Saturday, 12 October 2013

MAC Matchmaster Foundation SPF 15 Swatch and Review


I am in love with this foundation since the day I purchased it and I have been moving around swiftly to promote this foundation to my friends. Trust me ! I do not have any deal with MAC for doing this. It is just that I have experienced the best results through this foundation and I am considering this post as a platform to express my contentment to all lovable ladies out here.

So here is the closer look of MAC Matchmaster Foundation.

mac matchmaster foundation spf15

MAC Matchmaster Foundation SPF 15

Shade Intelligence Technology: Every individual has a unique shade of skin tone; the best thing is with the range of customized foundations introduced in MAC you will definitely be able to spot out the right foundation for your skin tone as they have shades ranging from 1 to 10 based on your skin tones. When I first entered the store they immediately got me the Matchmaster foundation looking at my skin tone. And to my surprise I purchased it in the first go without taking a second chance.

The only task from your end is to seek expert MUAs in the MAC store for getting you the right foundation that suites your skin tone.

Make sure that you never choose the wrong shade for it might leave you an unhappy experience which is purely a blunder.

Coverage: This shade of mine gives a medium coverage and an natural look when applied. The best thing about MAC foundations is that it blends with your skin tone no matter which shade you fall under. When I apply it on my face, it gives me a semi-matte finish and covers all my pores instantly. There is no cakey layer or any flakes caused due to this foundation and it lasts for almost 8 hours a day. My T-zone also remains natural and it doesn’t end up clumsy as I generally do not have an oily skin nor I sweat.

Sometimes I find it necessary to wear an extra layer as I generally pump a little for the first time. A little touch up with the powder is necessary for the foundation to obtain a perfect finish. As you can see below, there is very slight difference with my ordinary skin and post the foundation application the latter seems to be brighter. Both look natural and people often mistake that latter is my original color, I consider this as a victory from my end.  Take a closer look at both the photos (especially the neck region in the second photo) to identify the slightest difference for it has blended very well with my skin tone. The slight white cast you see is because of the flash since it has spf in it.

Packaging: What I really liked about the foundation at first is the packaging done with the help of a pump. Firstly I am bad with caps; I tend to lose it most of the times. But this kind of packaging really impressed me as there is no scope for the caps being lost and also you can control the quantity of foundation used when you pump it. This means of packaging assures that your foundation is going to last longer than usual.

On a serious note, the price gives us a little thought right up there on our minds for not many will be able to afford it. But if you seriously wish to experience a high-end product at-least once in your life then you must definitely take a look at this product. It is worth every penny.

Let’s check the photos and swatches:

mac matchmaster foundation 4.0

MAC Matchmaster Foundation 4.0

mac matchmaster foundation 4.0

MAC Matchmaster Foundation shade 4.0

mac matchmaster foundation review

MAC Matchmaster Foundation Review

mac matchmaster foundation review India

MAC Matchmaster Foundation SPF 15 Review

 


MAC Matchmaster Foundation SPF 15 

 

Pros of the Mac foundation:
  • Blends very well with your skin tone.
  • Gives a natural finish
  • No cakey/artificial/unnatural layer
  • Nice packaging
  • Medium coverage with semi-matte finish
  • Quick Drying
  • No allergic reactions
  • Absorbs excess oil
  • Comes with Sun protection
  • Minimizes pores and covers instantly
  • Stays all day

Cons of the Mac foundation:

  • Price (Quite high)
  • Exfoliation is necessary after usage as it clogs pores instantly
  • Is complete only when you set it with a powder

Price: Rs.2100

VNA Rating: 4.5/5

Conclusion: Mac Matchmaster Foundation is the best foundation I’ve ever tried. The texture is smooth and buildable and lasts all day. The coverage is medium and looks extremely natural. It has this shade intellect technology in which the shades adjust to match your skin tone. Since this is light, it can be worn everyday. Highly recommend!

I hope this post has given you some useful information, will be back with much more information in future. Thanks for giving me this privilege of writing guest reviews. Feel free to drop in your comments if any.


PRIYANKA


Friday, 11 October 2013

YSL Touche Eclat Review

 YSL Touche Eclat ReviewIf someone came up to me and asked me “Have you tried theTouche Eclat Maam” ? I would say “That sounds lovely, can you serve it with a cup of hazelnut flavoured coffee” . It honestly sounds like a French pastry to me, or maybe its just my hunger pangs that are driving me crazy. But one look at the sleek gold packaging of the YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch Concealer,  and it almost seems like a shiny gold wand right out of Harry potter. Obviously, we muggle folks cannot just magically make our dark circles disappear, hence we need it more!!

Ysl Claims  “The beauty secret of the world’s top makeup artists and models,  YSL Touche Éclat is the original must-have for a radiant, flawless face.Capture 8 hours of sleep with the click of a pen. With a few strategic strokes of this award-winning complexion highlighter—dark circles, fine lines and signs of fatigue virtually disappear. Powered by the radiance-boosting Luminocaptide Complex, skin is instantly illuminated, so you look rested and refreshed—even if you’ve been up for hours. Sleek and sophisticated, it discretely slips into a makeup bag for quick touch-ups anytime. It’s the one beauty essential no woman should ever be without.”

 YSL Touche Eclat Review

My view

I have to admit there is something very addictive about cool , golden metal in your hands early morning! Specially when it comes with concealing properties, its easy to fall into that trap of whipping out your golden magic wand in front of everyone to make them envious!! Anyhow, the YSL Touche Eclat delivers on a lot of fronts as a concealer- it really depends on what you are looking for.

If you are someone with horrible dark circle, im talking the kinds which will put panda’s to shame, then this is probably not the best concealer for you. The YSL Touche Eclat definitely conceals and then some, but for heavy duty nights of studying talking to significant other on phone till 5 am (do people do that??)  or partying till dawn , this will not erase  all of those deep purple circles the morning the after. If you are a normal human being however, and have light – medium dark circles and are looking for a solid concealer to wipe up all  those traces away then this one is definitely for you!

What makes the YSL touche Eclat stand out really is that besides its concealing properties, it has this amazing ability to make your under eye look brighter – instantly waking you  up. Its like your morning cup of coffee- except this one wont get you fat! It also has the perfect consistency as a concealer- its light and creamy and is a total breeze to apply. Click Click.  Blend Blend. Conceal Conceal! You are done! It lasts the whole day and doesnt budge , ensuring that you dont transform back into the Panda you woke up as ! Its become a staple in my makeup routine ever since i got my hands on it, but i switch to my other concealers when i need more coverage.

 YSL Touche Eclat Review

 YSL Touche Eclat Review

Left: BEfore Concealer, Right: After YSL Touche Eclat

 

Overall Verdict : A

Product: 4/5 , Coverage: 3.5/5, Longevity:5/5, Texture:5/5, Packaging & Value : 3.5/5

Price: Rs 2186/- Approx 

Recommendation: Its one of those magic wands that isntantly brightens your eyes and makes you look all wide awake ! It does not have very heavy coverage, so if you have a major dark circle problem then this is not for those days. Its a question really of whether you think spending this much is worth a light weight concealer that has amazing highlighting properties for your under eye area . I would repurchase it !


PRIYANKA

Tuesday, 8 October 2013

How to do Hot Oil Treatment for faster hair growth? {Hair Care}



Today, I would be talking about how to do Hot Oil Treatment. You can also read the hair oil recipe for growing hair faster.

Do not heat the oil. Instead take a steam after oiling your hair. Partition your hair into various sections. Pour some oil into your hand and apply it on the scalp first. Cover the entire scalp. Massage oil well into the scalp for 5 minutes at each part. Then, start applying oil to the body of your hair and concentrate on the ends. Be generous with the amount of oil on your head. Do not worry about greasing your hair. Do it at evening time when you do not have any appointments and it would be great if you have a friend who can give you a nice head massage.

After applying the oil to your hair completely, massage your scalp for 15-30 minutes. You would feel the heat generating. Immediately, either steam your hair by placing your head about 1 feet over the steam machine or cover your head with a shower cap and place a very hot towel on your head. Heat opens the pores and allows the oil to get absorbed more and quick. When the towel gets cold, replace it with other hot towel and alternate this routine for 1 hour. You can continue with the shower cap routine even after taking steam. Then, tie a scarf tightly over the shower cap and go to sleep. Leave the oil overnight to work better. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo in the morning. Apply conditioner only to the ends. You will have very soft and shiny hair. And, a weekly hot oil treatment with any oil would stimulate more hair growth.

 Hot Oil Treatment gives best results if done one night before washing your hair. But, applying oil immediately and going to bed will not help anything except spoiling your bed linens. So, apply oil two hours before going to bed. That gives oil enough time to get soaked into your hair.

One more important thing to remember is that do not over apply your hair oil. Take little by little and apply on your hair. Stop when all your scalp and hair length is covered. Do not keep on splurging the oil like some product. That will finish your shampoo quickly, dry your hair and might even cause hair loss. So, apply only to coat your hair. Be a little generous with the ends. Extra layers of coating will not ensure your hair turns healthy sooner or any kind of such belief.

How many times do you give your hair this luxurious ???

Monday, 7 October 2013

Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

This burning face mask is going to change your life. Sometimes I feel like I’m the only adult in the entire world who has hormonal acne.  Right around that time of the month I seem to break out in those under-the-skin boils that are hard to see and hurt to touch… you know the ones?  To make matters worse, I scar super easily when pregnant.  If one little zit goes awry I have a scar to show and tell for years to come.  It’s awful.  Anyone relating?

So I decided to take charge and show my skin who’s boss.  I went to the kitchen and concocted a little recipe which I like the call the burning face mask… because, well, it burns.  Each ingredient was chosen for specific reasons, which I will dish below.

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Burning Face Mask

    Use this mask three times a week to reduce uneven skin tones, reduce acne scars, reduce pore size and to get that healthy-looking glow back into your skin.

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Shopping List

    All things already in your kitchen!

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Recipe

    1/2 tsp organic cinnamon

    1/2 tsp nutmeg

    1 tsp raw honey

    2 tsp fresh lemon juice

    Mix together into thick paste.  Apply and let sit for 30 minutes...  or ten if you can't handle the burn!  It should only burn for the first five minutes or so and then it'll wear off.  Rinse the mask off with warm water and moisturize.  NOTE: If you have sensitive skin, leave out or dilute the lemon.  If you leave it out add a bit more honey to make the mixture paste-y.  This is a mask and not to be used to exfoliate your skin.  It'll hurt if you try!  

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Organic Cinnamon

    Cinnamon has been used for thousands of years as an anti-fungal and anti-viral.  It possess anti-microbial activity so it helps reduce the risk of diseases caused by bacteria.  It contains a number of powerful antioxidant compounds so it helps to prevent premature destruction of healthy cells in the body and on the skin.  I love it in my hot chocolate and now I love it on my face!

    Simply Organic Cinnamon | $3.59

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Ground Nutmeg

    Nutmeg is an anti-inflammatory and will help your acne scars disappear.  It has been used since ancient times to heal many skin diseases including ringworm and eczema.  Nutmeg  is rich in many b-complex vitamins including vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and many flavonoid anti-oxidants like beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin.

    Ground Nutmeg | $3.54

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Organic Raw Honey

    Honey is an antibacterial and anti-fungal agent and helps disinfect and speed the healing process of acne.  It will soak up impurities and help detoxify your skin.  It's not only loaded with antioxidants which will help restore damage and wrinkled skin, but it is incredibly moisturizing and will leave your skin feeling clean and soft.  

    Organic Bee Farms Organic Honey | $8.75

  • Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

    Fresh Lemon Juice

    Lemon is loaded with vitamin C.  It builds the collagen in our skin which is necessary to keep the skin firm and young.  Lemon will aid in lightening blemishes, any scars or dark spots and will even out the skin tone.  It will also bring a glow on your face by cleaning your skin right down to the pores.  Using lemon will make your skin photosensitive, so make sure to use a sunscreen if you're going to be out in the sun.  A good habit to get in even if you aren't applying lemon to your skin!  A powerful fruit that's perfect in your green smoothies and on your skin, who knew?!

Keep in mind that this is a mask that works gradually.  It won’t move mountains overnight, but if you are consistent with applying it 2 times a week you will see a huge improvement in your skin.  With consistent application it will lighten up marks, blemishes and scars.  It will reduce fine lines and wrinkles, it will also help your skin to glow and look healthy.  It’s the best mask I’ve tried.  It’s refreshing and it leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth.

Now go on and give a try

Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

Recipe

1/2 tsp organic cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp raw honey

2 tsp fresh lemon juice

Mix together into thick paste.  Apply and let sit for 30 minutes...  or ten if you can't handle the burn!  It should only burn for the first five minutes or so and then it'll wear off.  Rinse the mask off with warm water and moisturize.  NOTE: If you have sensitive skin, leave out or dilute the lemon.  If you leave it out add a bit more honey to make the mixture paste-y.  This is a mask and not to be used to exfoliate your skin.  It'll hurt if you try!  


Organic Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used for thousands of years as an anti-fungal and anti-viral.  It possess anti-microbial activity so it helps reduce the risk of diseases caused by bacteria.  It contains a number of powerful antioxidant compounds so it helps to prevent premature destruction of healthy cells in the body and on the skin.  I love it in my hot chocolate and now I love it on my face!


Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

Ground Nutmeg

Nutmeg is an anti-inflammatory and will help your acne scars disappear.  It has been used since ancient times to heal many skin diseases including ringworm and eczema.  Nutmeg  is rich in many b-complex vitamins including vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and many flavonoid anti-oxidants like beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin.



Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

Organic Raw Honey

Honey is an antibacterial and anti-fungal agent and helps disinfect and speed the healing process of acne.  It will soak up impurities and help detoxify your skin.  It's not only loaded with antioxidants which will help restore damage and wrinkled skin, but it is incredibly moisturizing and will leave your skin feeling clean and soft.  



Burning Face Mask: How to Reduce Acne Scars and Uneven Skin Tones

Fresh Lemon Juice

Lemon is loaded with vitamin C.  It builds the collagen in our skin which is necessary to keep the skin firm and young.  Lemon will aid in lightening blemishes, any scars or dark spots and will even out the skin tone.  It will also bring a glow on your face by cleaning your skin right down to the pores.  Using lemon will make your skin photosensitive, so make sure to use a sunscreen if you're going to be out in the sun.  A good habit to get in even if you aren't applying lemon to your skin!  A powerful fruit that's perfect in your green smoothies and on your skin, who knew?!



DIY Green Tea Face Scrub


Tea leaves are rich in flavanoids which maintain the collagen production in the skin. It maintains the elasticity of the skin, makes your skin glow and reverses the signs of ageing.

  • Boil a spoon full of tea leaves in water. When it imparts colour, remove from the flame. Cool it and add 2 teaspoons from it in the bowl.

Green tea scrub

  • In this, add 2 teaspoons of brown sugar. (Here I have used white sugar).

suger

  • Finally add 1 teaspoon of cream and mix well.

cinnamon powder

  • Apply all over the face and scrub gently in circular motions.

mixer

Sunday, 6 October 2013

Grow Your Hair like Crazy With Oil


If you don't do anything else but this you will be amazed at your hair growth.  This is also really good for kids.  A little messy but good.  Get the plastic caps out and let the games begin!

Do equal parts for all.

Depending on your hair type you may need to do a large quantity so be your own judge.

  1. One part avocado oil
  2. One part castor oil
  3. One part olive oil

Mix all of this together.  If you can do a large quantity for one month or so.

The mixture consists of avocado oil, castor oil, and olive oil in equal parts. Create enough of this to last you for roughly thirty days because you are going to really change the way your hair feels, responds and grows in that thirty days.


 

Avocado Oil is rich, warm and less nutty.  It’s not very oily either.  Like olive oil it also penetrates the hair shaft and skin nicely but it adds something more.  Avocado oil adds strength to the strands.  It adds a nice layer of protection, like a bonding action to the strands.Castor oil is a very rich thick nutty oil.  It has the consistency of honey but the colour of dark syrup. 

 

Castor oil has always been known to grow the hair but few people know why it works.  Castor oil has properties which stimulates cellular action when it gets unto your scalp.  You may notice your hair itching a lot when you use it.  You may even notice a lot of dandruff.  I do not have proof of this but I suspect as others also believe, that the extra skin which seems like dandruff is just a response to fast cell turnover. 

 

Extra Virgin Olive oil is a miracle oil.  Its filled with all sort of vitamins that nourish the body as well as the hair.  What is superb about this oil is its penetrating qualities. Not all oils penetrate effectively.  Some if not most sit on the

hair or skin but don’t get absorbed. Olive oil penetrates the hair shaft making it more supple.  The hair needs to maintain

a strong level of elasticity in order not break and this oil does this very well.

 

 

Naturally all of this works and knowing what it does helps even more. But,  knowing how to use it is the key

7 BEST OILS FOR HEALTHY HAIR...


You don’t always have to buy fancy, big name hair products for your hair. Sometimes the best products are actually very simple and found in your local Whole Foods store. What are these simple hair products? Well they’re natural oils. I’m a natural haired woman and know first-hand that natural oils are amazing for hair. They work wonders on my hair. And I’ve been using natural oils for years to make my hair softer, shinier, and even stronger. Basically hair needs oil. So be sure to check out these 7 fabulous natural oils for natural hair.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is particularly great for natural hair. It’s loaded with nutrients, amino acids, essential fatty acids, as well as vitamins A, B, D, and E. And it’s excellent for moisturizing, deep conditioning, improving hair strength, strengthening hair, and boosting shine.

Castor Oil

Castor oil thickens hair, promotes hair growth, prevents thinning, moisturizes, helps reduce split ends, helps to tame frizz, and prevents scalp infections.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is great for preventing dandruff, promoting hair growth, moisturizing, strengthening hair, thickening hair, and preventing damage.

Olive Oil (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)

I LOVE using olive oil. And olive oil, which is also referred to as the “godmother of hair oil,” is great for moisturizing, deep conditioning, improving hair strength, eliminating dandruff, and also has powerful antioxidants that can help fight hair loss.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is great for stimulating hair follicles for hair growth, preventing hair loss and greying, preventing dandruff, strengthening hair, and boosting shine.

Safflower Oil

Safflower oil protects hair, nourishes hair follicles, moisturizes, and stimulates blood circulation to promote hair growth and thickness. And it is extremely beneficial for natural as well as dry chemically treated hair.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil works great as a “sealant.” This means that it “locks-in” moisture. Sweet almond oil also nourishes hair, smoothes hair cuticles to control shedding, promotes hair growth and thickness, prevents hair loss, and boosts shine.