Review + Swatches: Urban Decay Naked on Dusky Indian Skin

Urban Decay Naked 

12 Neutral Eye Shadows Palette 

Urban Decay's Naked Palette has revolutionized neutral eye make up forever. It has 12 eye shadow shades in matte. shimmer, satin and sparkle textures. The shades are suitable for day as well as night looks. It is supposed to be universally flattering. 

The long and lean, chocolate velvet case is embossed with gold foil lettering, 'NAKED'. The case has a mirror inside and also includes a cruelty free double ended brush with an eye shadow / concealer brush on one side and a blending brush on the other side. The package also comes with 4 Urban Decay Primer Potion samples. The packaging itself is simply irresistible.

The shades range from the lightest champagne color to the darkest black. 

The 12 colors are:

Virgin  (nude satin)

Sin (Champagne shimmer)

Naked (Nude matte)

Sidecar (Beige shimmer with silver glitter micro particles)

Buck (fawn brown matte)

Half baked (golden bronze shimmer)

Smog (deep coppery bronze shimmer)

Darkhorse (deep mocha shimmer)

Toasted (antique copper penny shimmer)

Hustle (plum brown satin)

Creep (onyx shimmer with gold sparkle)

Gunmetal (dark metallic grey shimmer with silver glitter micro particles)

Each eye shadow is 1.3 g in weight.

I felt that the shimmer shades had more color payoff and more pigmented than the matte ones. The matte ones needed at least 3 - 4 coats to show up the color. Also the matte ones were more powdery textured. The shimmer ones glide on really smooth on the skin. 

The shades may be warm but they all have cool undertones. So they didn't look as stunning as I had hoped they would on me. Used alone as a wash of shadow on the eyes looks decent and appropriate for day and office wear. Smokey eye is buildable with the variety of shades in this palette. That would look good for a night out. However, most colors just about blend in into the dusky skin tone, and the really dark ones like Darkhorse, Creep and Gunmetal look a tad too harsh on the dusky skin tone. Being cool undertoned, they look pale and washed out and don't photograph well on dark/ dusky skin either. They look like ash coating, to be honest.

Overall, it is the hype for the Urban Decay Naked palette that is overwhelming. The product is lukewarm - according to me.

REVIEW: Patanjali Rose Body Cleanser

Patanjali Rose Body Cleanser

An Ayurvedic Proprietary Medicine

Claims:

Useful in rejuvenating, nourishing, glorifying the skin. Useful in removing dryness and roughness of skin.

Ingredients:

Each 10 g of the product contains extracts of :

Neem (Indian Lilac) - 1 mg

Tulsi (Holu Basil) - 1 mg

Aama haldi (Mango ginger) - 1 mg

Haldi (Turmeric) - 1 mg

Ghrit umari (Aloe vera) - 1 mg

Gulab (Rose) - 1 mg

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) - 1 mg

Giloy (Heart leaved moonseed) - 1 mg

Shudh Suhaga (Borax) - 25 mg

Benefits:

The benefits of each of the ingredients for the skin are as below.

Neem, Tulsi, Haldi, Amla, Gulab - read classic Indian beauty secrets here.

Aloe vera - read Cleopatra's beauty secrets here.

Aama haldi - It is known as "Aama" haldi or Mango ginger because it smells like mango pulp. It gives the skin a beautiful golden glow like that of a mango. It also has deodorizing properties and prevent body odor as well. Like turmeric, it is also useful for general skin health.

Image source: quora.com

Giloy - It keeps skin youthful and radiant. It also removes dark spots, pimples, fine lines and wrinkles. 

Image source: onlymyhealth.com

Borax - Borax is an awesome cleanser when used appropriately. It has been used for more than 4000 years. It is anti-inflammatory and has a gentle and calming effect on the skin when used in moderation only. It also kills parasites and bacteria on the skin.

Image source: naturesgardencandles.com

Review:
Such a pretty color for a soap! Such a soft texture for a soap!

Aah, the prettiness and softness aside, I'm in love with this soap / body cleanser.

Although the packaging is pretty drab with just a plastic wrap and a simple printed white paper sticker, the product is nothing short of gorgeous! Yes, it could be more gorgeous with a beautiful shape, but that would have made it a killer.

The fragrance is rose, rose, rose, all the way. Just a luxurious rose scent, not like the rose waters. It smells just like a garden full of roses. It just transforms every day bathing into a luxurious, senses indulging ritual.

The texture of the soap is soft too. Just like all glycerin soaps are softer in texture, so is this one - incredible texture!

The size of the 125 g bar is pretty chunky. It is a square shaped 4 x 4 inch (approx) block of rose pink colored, translucent soap.

It lathers well with just a little water and a little rub. Ohh, the lather is something else! Out of this world. Rich and creamy. You could literally feel it softening the skin.

Skin feels fragrant and soft after a bath. No traces of any film or residue left behind. No stickiness, no oiliness. I have stopped relying on body moisturizer ever since I have been using this soap. 

Ideal not just as a body cleanser, but as a face cleanser as well, as it is very gentle on the skin.

The only downside is that just like other glycerin based soaps, this one melts off easily too. One bar does not last more than a month.

Priced at Rs 45 for a 125 g bar, it is fair to say that it is on the slightly expensive side of the scale. However, if you try it ones, you may be hooked just like me.

REVIEW: Patanjali Herbal Kajal

Patanjali Herbal Kajal - No Smudge, No Smear

An Ayurvedic Proprietary Medicine

Claims:

Indulge, relax & soothe the eyes. A safe and unique ointment formulation, containing a special combination of herbs and vegetable oils & waxes that help maintain and improve vision. 

Ingredients:

Each 1 gm contains:

Castor oil - 300 mg

Almond oil - 20 mg

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) decoction - 0.1 mg

Harad (Chebulic Myrobalan) decoction - 0.1 mg

Baheda (Beleric Myrobalan) decoction - 0.1 mg

Yashti madhu (Licorice) decoction - 0.1 mg

Rasaut (Indian Barberry) decoction - 0.1 mg

Benefits:

The benefits of each of the ingredient used is as below.

Castor oil & Almond oil - Both of these are traditional ingredients in an Ayurvedic recipe for Kajal (or kohl). For more information, read my DIY oil for longer and thicker lashes and brows here. 

Amla, Harad, and Baheda are the three components of Triphala. Triphala wash is helpful for the eyes, strengthening the eye muscles and improving eyesight. 

Amla - It is used to strengthen the roots of the hair and also darken it. Applied over the eyes, it can help the vision. Read more benefits of it in my classic Indian beauty secrets here. 

Harad - This tree grows widely all over India. The Abhaya kind of Harad is useful in treating eye disorders.

Image source: flowersofindia.net

Baheda - This tree is commonly found lining the roads especially in central and southern India. Baheda is used to strengthen hair, and also impart a black color. It also cures pink eye or conjunctivitis. It is also used in other eye ailments like shortsightedness, cornea opacity, cataract and eye infections as well.

Image source: pixshark.com

Yashti Madhu - Licorice is often claimed as god's gift to mankind for all its myriad uses. It also promotes healthy eyesight and relieves burning sensation in the eyes.

Rasaut - It is mostly used to treat eye diseases. It keeps the eyes feeling fresh as well.

Image source: flickriver.com

Review:

After reading the benefits of each of the ingredients, it is no wonder that it claims to indulge, relax and soothe the eyes with each and every application. 

The kajal comes in a unique lipstick kind of silver colored bullet with a plastic black base and a transparent cap, unlike the traditional pots of kajal usually found in India. The packaging is quite striking and looks very good. It's only when you read "Patanjali Kajal" on the cap that you can believe that even an Ayurvedic product can come in sleek packages. The Kajal is all of just 3 g and it is mounted as a sharp cone which makes precise application easier.

The product itself is soft, just like you would expect a typical Indian kajal to be, unlike the cosmetic Kohl which is much harder and waxier in consistency. The color payoff is also gentle and not stark like a Kohl, but a gentler payoff complements an Indian warm skin tone and facial features like no other, because Indians have a soft facial structure. The jet black kohls look really good on pale beauties, enhancing the contrast. However on a darker Indian skin tone, they would only highlight the darkness in the skin tone, rather than enhance the beauty of it. So, the color payoff is just perfect.

Thanks to the pointed edge of the kajal, I have even used it to line my eyes like I would use an eye liner. It makes for thin, beautifully lined eyes, typical of the way traditional kajal is applied, not smothered as a thick line that Kohl is used. Just a thin, black line, outlining the big beautiful eyes is enough to complement any Indian dame (or any dame, for a simple, understated beauty).

Coming to its no smudge, no smear claim. Well, which oil & wax based product does not smudge or smear? This one is based in an ointment, even then its staying power is commendable. It lasts a good 4 - 5 hours, and even then it does not smudge or smear all over the eyes. It gradually lightens until it is not visible. Such a saver! No more raccoon eyes. Bye, bye Panda eyes!

Given these benefits and the product itself, it is well worth every money spent on it - which is quite reasonable at Rs 90 for a 3 g kajal.

The only downside that I see is also the packaging and shape of the kajal. It is suitable for direct application on the eyes which greatly reduces its shelf life because obviously it is in contact with the bacteria in the eyes. Indirect application using clean finger tips would help lengthen the shelf life of kajals.

REVIEW: Vicco Turmeric Cream with Foam Base

Okay, so first things first. The pretty girl in the banner above is Mishti Chakraborty who featured in the 2015 advertisement for Vicco Turmeric Cream with Foam Base.

Although the product has been around for at least the past few years, it has garnered a lot of interest and customers post this ad. Prior to this, it was merely available at most stores without any ad campaign. Such is the power of media in today's world! Earlier, the product was available in a packaging like the one below. Yep! Now the packaging design is simple and to the point. The gentleman sits on the packaging for Vicco Turmeric Cream with Foam in Shaving Cream Base instead. Apparently, he is gonna be around.

Image source: bikrionline.com

Claims:

Vicco Turmeric Cream with Foam Base is a one-step solution to every girl's skin care problem. It is an Ayurvedic medicine with microbicidal properties of turmeric for the prevention and cure of pimples, blackheads and oily skin with every wash. It also helps in preventing and curing skin infections, rashes and allergies. It helps to stop the bleeding of minor wounds and heals them, treats minor cuts and small injuries as well. The rich lather clears pores and blackheads. It also accelerates the process of skin renewal. It is also vegan! (Sigh. What a relief. Can you name another product which is vegan!?) Only for external use.

Ingredients:

Turmeric extract 16% w/w (so, a 70 g tube contains 11.2 g of turmeric extract)

Exipients in Foam base q.s

Turmeric extract has powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is the number 1 and age old secret of Ayurveda for flawless skin of Indian women, where Turmeric is used in everyday regimen. It's most widely used for skin brightening, reducing acne and oily skin, and anti-aging. Other less commonly known benefits include slowing down the growth of facial hair, removing dead skin cells, and as an anti-dandruff treatment that also cures other scalp infections and hair loss by boosting the blood circulation.

The exipients used in this products are not mentioned. Exipients basically are "fillers" that fill up the bulk of the product. Also the foam base or the surfactant used is not known to us. We can cross our fingers and hope all is well! That's all, folks!

Review:

Vicco Turmeric Cream is a legend in itself. It needs no introduction - it's been around for ages, helping our grandmums, mums and us look our radiant best. So when Vicco launches it as a face wash, who would not be excited? Although, I reckon Vicco Turmeric Face Wash would be an apt name! But uh oh, there must be a reason behind choosing such an offbeat name - VTC in a Foam Base! Huh. What could it be?

Oh, I know! It can be used anywhere on the body that needs some turmeric attention - cuts, rashes, wounds, allergies! So it's not just a face wash - it's a medicinal wash with skin care benefits too.

But is it really a cream in a foam base? I don't know how that would be? This product definitely did not seem like a cream, foam, or whatever! It's a gel. 

So unlike the Vicco Turmeric Cream that comes in a yellow-orange packaging, this one is a simple white tube with blue accents (signifying the cooling foam base, perhaps?) and an image of two turmeric sticks, with foam/ bubbles all over the background. The tube is rather tubby - a 70 g tube is about 6 inches long and 1.5 inches diameter. The cap is flip open kind which is easy on the nails unlike some which can literally break the nails in an attempt to flip it open.

The gel (or the cream in foam base) is pale yellow in color (ta-daaaaaa!) and neither too thick nor too runny. I found the consistency perfect. With just a very little product, like the size of a green pea, you can make enough lather to cleanse the face and neck. The lather is very rich and the fragrance is unlike the Vicco Turmeric Cream. Nothing like herbs and spices, at all. It is like a perfume! So refreshing. Similar to a very popular anti-bacterial solution/ soap brand in India, in the "cool" range. It is not at all overpowering, it just faintly lingers on after the wash. Yes, the lather is also very cooling on the skin. Perfect for Indian weather. 

It rinses off easily too in just a couple of splashes of water, and does not leave any filmy residue or stickiness. So, it is ideal for oily skin types. However, my skin type is combination, and I did not feel any kind of dryness or tautness in the skin at anytime after using it. I loved it!

So, after rinsing it off, there is a subtle glow in the skin! The squeaky fresh feeling too. There is a refreshing cooling sensation, nothing like a tingle, just a relaxing, refreshing coolness which is so, so needed right now! I wonder how it would feel in the chilly winters, though! o_O The cool feeling lasted well after the wash, and all throughout my morning walk actually. 

My skin tans easily even in the early morning sun, but after using this one, there was no more tanning. My skin had just been protected by the wondrous, marvelous Turmeric.

With the blackheads, there was no immediate difference. Although over the week, I noticed that they gently dissolved or disappeared. The stubborn ones too had become softer that a steam facial could easily unclog them. 

To be honest, sometimes I used it in my shower too, as a deodorizing wash in special areas. Works. Loved it! 

I used it on a developing eczema patch near my elbow, and before it could manifest as something nasty, its roots were destroyed by yours truly! Amazing, isn't it.

I'm sure it would be a gentle wash for minor cuts or wounds with no stinging or burning sensation.

So many benefits in one! It's gotto be a Vicco Turmeric - now in a foam base! So, thankful for this product. It's just so easy to incorporate it into daily routine now. 

I use it twice a day - just after getting up, and just before going to bed. More so for the refreshed feeling it gives me and secondly for erasing all the blackheads on my skin, and keeping it fresh and cool for hours!

This has quickly become one of those products that I cannot live without! My sincere thanks to Vicco Labs.

The product is supposedly easily available in the Indian market. I could not find it in my area (in Bangalore) so I bought it online. My 70 g tube has been with me since the past month, and as you can see I've come halfway through. So it would run another month or so. A very good and economic buy for the price (Rs 80 for 70 g tube).

REVIEW: Glam Up Powder Cream

Glam up is a much publicized make up cum skin care product from Vini Industries, India, which claims to glam up your look effortlessly. Especially recommended for special events like a special date, interview, party or anywhere where you want to, need to look special (as per the television ads).

Claims:

Sunscreen, suitable for all skin types, cream based product that gives a  powder finish. Shelf life 2 years from date of manufacture. Price Rs 150 for 25 g tube.

Ingredients: 

I have listed the complete list of ingredients as mentioned on the carton of the product as well as their respective use in the product below. Those highlighted in red may not be suitable for some.

PPG 15 Stearyl ether - moisturizer, smooth skin appearance, derived from animal fat

Ceteraryl ethylhexanoate - improves speadability and water proof

Isopropyl myristate - binder and moisturizer.

Bismuth oxychloride - primary ingredient of mineral make-up powders, due to its atomic structure, it reflects light such that to give a pearly radiance.

Cyclopentasiloxane - silicone, adds shine

Cetearyl olivate - olive oil derivative, helps bind together other oils in the moisturizer product

Sorbitan olivate - surfactant based on olive oil, helps the product wash off in plain water

PEG-12 dimethicone - silicone which gives a smooth feeling on application

Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate - gives thickness to the product and cuts out the greasiness

Dimethicone - skin protectant

Talc - gives an opacity to the product's coverage on skin and also protects skin

Sodium PCA - attracts moisture, moisturizing agent

Trehalose - attracts moisture, moisturizing agent

Sorbitol - attracts moisture, fragrance

Glycerin - attracts moisture, moisturizing agent

Panthenol - derivative of Vitamin B5, moisturizing and conditioning

Sodium hyaluronate - attracts moisture, skin conditioning

Urea - moisturizing and softening

Polyquaternium- 51 - attracts moisture, skin conditioning

Titanium dioxide and Iron oxide (mixed) - mineral finish and sunscreen

PPG 33 Butyl Ether - reduces flakiness, increases sheen of the skin

Alumina - increases the volume of the product

Simethicone - anti foaming

Olive oil derivatives - skin conditioning

Mica - gives a sparkly, white appearance

Vinyl Dimethicone - thickening agent

Cross polymer silica - thermal stabilizer

Parabens - preservative

Phenoxyethanol - fragrance, preservative

Methylisothiazolinone - preservative, may cause allergic reactions

Cetostearyl alcohol - skin softener

Xanthan gum - gives a soft texture to the product

EDTA 2NA - enhances skin absorption

Perfume

Lactic acid - improves skin appearance

Menthyl lactate - moisturizer

Review:

As you can see, most of the ingredients have hydrating, moisturizing, skin smoothening, skin conditioning and skin protecting (sunscreen as well) properties. Some of the ingredients give it a shiny, whitish or pearly finish. While there are many a ingredients doing the skin some care, there are as many a ingredients just stabilizing the presence of one another. The only allergenic could be methylisothiazolinone, and PPG 15 stearyl ether is from an animal fat. Most ingredients could be derived from plant or animal based fats!

While the ingredients look promising, one may be alarmed by the presence of too many chemicals in just one product which is believed to give a good alternative to make up coverage. Only the manufacturers may know best and argue the necessity of each of those ingredients.

Coming to the packaging, the tube is a jazzy red one with silver text highlights and a black or sometimes silver cap - a color combination that one might think is one helluva combination. The packaging itself does not look top notch. The nozzle is fairly long enough and dispenses a small amount of product. Actually, the nozzle size and thickness is perfect for this product. The cap is resealable and closes tightly. The tube itself is about 5 inches long and 3/4th inch thick (a 25 g tube), so it conveniently fits into any purse or travel pouches.

Now the product is off-white with slight pinkish undertone. Just a little is a lot to cover the entire face and neck. It does spread easily but takes a while to blend in.

Once it blends in, it is difficult to wipe it off. It stays put that way for hours. It even does not budge under sweat. It does not change color in the sun, speaking of which, the whitish pink undertone does not complement most Indian skin tones which are warm and earthy in tone. On my dusky dark skin tone especially, it stands out like a white cast. I tried it out on my mom who is fair skinned but it still looks pale and whitish. However, used under a BB/ CC cream/ foundation, it gives an amazing result as a lighter skin tone which looks natural without looking made up.

The fragrance is very similar to a popular soap brand in India which is quite a hit among the young and lovely ladies. The fragrance lasts all through the while that the product is on the skin.

The product does make the skin a bit oily after a while because of so many ingredients in it that have humectant (water-attracting) properties. If a blotting paper is used to blot off the excess oils, the product still stays put. So full marks for its stying power. The sunscreen effect is also very good. Unlike other sunscreens which are a bit oily, this one is not. It is actually just right blend of oils to keep the skin fresh. However, just like all the sunscreens it leaves that whitish cast. One tube with normal usage would last about 3 months, I reckon.

Overall, I would not recommend it as a standalone product because of the whitish color, but used together with regular make up base, it is wonderful. Given the price, and its easy availability (in the Indian market), and versatility in terms of skin care as well as make up, it is definitely not a waste of money.

Buy online using the link below to get Rs. 10 discount on a single product with free delivery in India or go for the dual or triple pack to save on multiple orders. 

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Classic Indian Beauty Secrets

India is a place where its people always believed in the power of nature and tried to live in harmony with it. Its culture and traditions speak of such a symbiotic relationship between man and nature. The belief that nature has all the answers to every aspect of life is deep rooted in their practices.

Indian women have been the epitome of natural beauty and beauty traditions for ages. Although, Ayurveda prescribes rich herbs for internal and external medication, the Indian woman always made sure to integrate even the simplest concoctions from her kitchen in to her daily routine to beautify herself inside out. Here are some of the age old and classic Indian beauty secrets.

Turmeric

The antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties make it the perfect ingredient to fight any skin diseases. In the olden days, turmeric sticks would be rubbed on a wet stone to get a paste and it would be smothered all over the body before a bath in a river or lake. It has the most refreshing feeling to the body, mind, and soul as it was believed. However, most turmeric available nowadays is colored with artificial yellow dyes which are harmful for health. The safest turmeric for use on the skin is Kasuri Haldi. It can be applied on skin for a bright glow, sun de-tan, anti-acne and anti-septic on small wounds. Regular application improves complexion.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1/2 tsp Kasuri Haldi (or as required)

1 tsp Water

Make a thin paste and let dry. Wash with normal water

Besan

Known as Gram flour or Garbanzo bean flour in English, it is the most potent skin cleanser, with versatile uses as a cleanser, mask, or scrub. It not only deep cleanses but also nourishes skin. It is safe to use on every day basis as well. It has skin lightening properties which make it all the more popular ingredient in skin care recipes.

Get Set Girl's  Recipe:

1 tsp Besan

1 tsp water

Mix together as a thick paste and use on wet skin as a scrub. Leave it on for 2 - 5 minutes and wash off.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood trees are exotic aromatic trees that grow widely in the southern states, especially Karnataka. Its wood, bark, oil are extensively used in luxury cosmetics. Also sandalwood paste is smeared on freshly shaved heads to give a soothing effect as it is an anti-septic as well. It is relatively an expensive ingredient, but its popularity is immense for all its benefits including relieving headaches, stings, acne, sun tan, etc. The aroma is just heavenly. Similar to turmeric, sandalwood is ground to a paste on a wet stone, but powder form is also available for instant use. Cauvery, the government company, which is authorized to sell sandalwood products also makes ready to use sandalwood paste.

Get Set Girl's  Recipe:

1 tsp ground sandalwood paste

Just apply on the skin for as long as desired. Can be used to even spot treat pimples.

Saffron

The Queen of spices is grown only in Kashmir in India. It is a painstaking process to take the saffron threads and as such is a very expensive spice. The authenticity of this spice is tested by putting it in water. If the water immedietely gets a color, then it is very likely that the saffron has bee artificially dyed. Authentic threads let color slowly, and the color is much deeper than the yellowish-orange imparted by the fake dyes. It is used in sparing quantities in skin care routine as just a little goes a long way. It helps with skin lightening and acne treatment.

Get Set Girl's  Recipe:

2 - 3 saffron threads

1 tsp water

Soak the threads in water for 15 - 20 minutes. Take a pestle or a spoon and squeeze the threads to extract more essence. Apply this solution over the skin.

Tulsi

Known as Holy Basil in English. Tulsi plant is worshipped as a goddess among the Hindus. Consuming 2 - 3 tulsi leaves relieves cold and cough. It keeps rashes and dandruff at bay apart from proving relief to pimple battle field skin.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

5 - 10 Tulsi leaves

Just add to your bath water for use on body and hair. The aroma is therapeutic as well.

Amla

Known as the Indian Gooseberry in English, it is rich in Vit C. So it helps unclog pores, brighten & lighten skin, cure dandruff and provide an excellent shine to the hair. The puree or pulp of Amla can be difficult to work with, so they are dried and powdered for use.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1/2 cup Amla powder

1/2 cup water

Make a paste and apply over skin/ hair. It rinses off easily without staining so don't worry.

Multani mitti

It is Indian volcanic clay, also known as Fuller's Earth. It derives its name from Multan, now part of Pakistan, and mitti means mud in Hindi. It is a great detoxifying ingredient which can be used on its own in combination with other ingredients. The Royal would regularly indulge in a Multani mitti bath.  It tightens the skin, shrinks pores, reduces oiliness thereby reducing pimples, reduces dandruff and makes skin stronger and resilient to hairfall. It is claimed to improve complexion.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1/2 cup Multani mitti

3/4 cup water

Mix to a thin paste and apply over skin and hair. Wash off before it completely dries off or it can be hard to remove it.

Coconut oil

Coconut trees grow along the coastal regions of India, and its oil is widely used in cooking and skin and hair care. It is not only moisturizing, but also soothes dry skin diseases. It removes dandruff with regular application and gives the hair strength and shine. It is the secret of south Indian women's long and luscious hair. It is also used for oil pulling. Just make sure that the oil is cold-compressed and not refined for maximum benefits.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1/4 cup warm coconut oil

Slather on generously over skin & hair and massage well. Let it soak in for as long as possible and then wash off.

Shikakai and Reetha

Shikakai and Reetha are both hair cleansers and conditioners in one. Reetha is known as Soapnut in English. They can be used individually or together as well. They not just cleanse the hair well removing all traces of oil and dirt, but also keep it dandruff and lice free. They do not color the hair as such, but prevent graying. They make the roots healthy and strong. They are secret behind south Indian women's black, shiny, thick hair.

Silver Lined Pink Cloud's Recipe:

A fistful of Shikakai  

and/ or A fistful of Reetha

1 glass water.

Boil together all the ingredients when it starts frothing take off the flame and cool a bit. Use as a cleanser for hair. At first, if it doesn't lather, it is because it has dissolved all the oil in the scalp and hair. The next rinse with this solution will lather up well. Just be careful not to get it into the eyes or they will burn. But even if it does get into the eyes, it does no harm, it just cleanses them too! Use the remaining solution on the body for a glossy skin.

Neem

Neem, also known as Margosa tree in English, is a sacred tree in India. Its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and antiseptic properties make it a great medicine. It is useful for curing skin disorders too. In the olden times, and even today in the villages, the  Neem sticks are chewed on instead of a toothbrush and toothpaste for dental care. It prevents all sorts of dental problems like cavities, bad breath, plaque, tartar, ulcers, etc. Used on the hair, it treats dandruff and lice infestation. It may be safely applied on cuts and wounds for healing naturally and it doesn't burn! A few leaves may be regularly used in bath water or a mask from dried leaves powder may be used every now and then as often as required. Lighting a lamp with the oil of Neem also drives mosquitoes away. Alternatively it can be applied on the skin as a mosquito repellent. It can be mixed with coconut oil and diluted as such for use on skin and hair.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1 tbsp Neem powder

1 tbsp water

Mix and apply for spot treatment on skin problems.

Henna

Henna is also known as Mehendi in India. The shrub is a common garden plant in most households. The leaves are collected and ground with a pestle to a smooth paste and applied to the hands, feet, and hair for color. The color varies from orange to a deep maroon, sometimes so dark that it almost looks black! It is applied to a bride's hands and feet as part of a ceremony. The earthy aroma calms the nerves and anxiety. It is also used as a hair colorant and conditioner. People with white hair will end up with orangish hair if using henna alone. Pre-oiling with warm mustard oil will deepen the color imparted to the hair. Used on dark/ black hair will impart a gorgeous auburn color. The leaves may be collected, and dried in the sun, and then powdered to a fine texture for easier use and future storage as well. Soaking the powder in water overnight in an iron container makes it impart a much deeper color.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1 cup Henna powder

1/2 cup warm water

Mix both and leave aside overnight. Apply on hands, feet, or hair. If applying on the hair leave for a minimum of an hour to a maximum of 4 hours and wash off. If applying on hands or feet, leave overnight and scrape off with a steel spoon in the next morning. Do not wash with water immediately for a deep color.

Rose water

Rose petals were used in bath water for an invigorating feeling as rose is a natural aphrodisiac. Also the fragrance is extremely attractive. It softens the skin and removes skin pigmentation. Water is also infused with roses for future use. 

Get Set Girl's  Recipe:

1 bowl of fresh rose petals

1 l water

Bring water to a boil and add the petals. Switch off the flame, and cover with a lid. Let the petals infuse in the water for about 30 minutes. Filter and transfer into a clean bottle for future use. May be refrigerated or frozen as rose water cubes. Just dab with cotton on the skin for instant freshness. Regular use improves complexion. Ideal for all skin types.

Milk and curd

Both milk and curd are rich in lactic acid. Lactic acid removes pigmentation and unclogs pores, thereby assisting acne as well. They are versatile ingredients which may be used on their own or with other ingredients like besan or multani mitti, etc.

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1 tsp besan or multani mitti

1 tsp milk/ curd

Mix and apply on the skin. Wash off with warm water after it completely dries off.

Lemon

Lemon is by far the most popular skin lightening agent and also reduces pimples. As it is acidic, it must always be diluted with plain water, rose water, or honey before using on the skin. Used on the hair, it cures dandruff and makes hair silky and shiny. The fragrance is very refreshing and uplifting on hot days especially. 

Get Set Girl's Recipe:

1 tsp besan

1/2 tsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp rose water

Combine all and apply on the skin. Wait till it dries off and wash off for smooth and glowing skin.

Cleopatra Beauty Secrets - Most Powerful Ancient Egypt Beauty Secrets

Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale

Her infinite variety: other women cloy

The appetites they feed, but she makes hungry

Where most she satisfies

William Shakespeare, Antony and Cleopatra, Act II, Scene II

Image source: art-burshtin.com.ua

The thick eyeliner, the jet black hair, the large sultry eyes, and one of the most famous and powerful Queen from the Ancient times - Cleopatra's beauty has survived her reputation.

Cleopatra, the last Queen of Egypt, was known to indulge in elaborate beauty and spa treatments to enhance her natural beauty.

Most of them were secret and have been lost to the generations, however, some of them have been popularized.

Here are some of her best kept beauty secrets.

Image source: topinspired.com

Milk and Honey cleanser

Cleopatra used to bathe in goat's milk and honey bath. This is by far one of her most famous beauty secret (not so secret anymore!). 

Milk has light AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) which help to dissolve dead skin cells. Honey is moisturizing and anti-bacterial that helps to prevent pimple breakouts from the bacteria in the milk. Result is soft and bright skin.

Get Set Girl's Recommended Recipe:

1 tsp milk (full fat milk for dry skin, skimmed milk powder for oily to normal skin)

1 tsp honey (raw honey preferably from your local bees keeper or Manuka honey)

Mix both well until well incorporated. Apply while gently massaging in. Leave for 5 minutes and rinse off with warm water to get rid of the fat in the milk. Do not use soap. Pat dry or let air dry.

Image source: blog.games.com

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Natron exfoliating scrub

Natron salt was derived from dry lake beds in ancient Egypt and mixed with oil for use as a body soap. It was used to deodorize, remove oiliness, and also in the mummification rituals (SPOOKY!!!).

Get Set Girl's Recommended Recipe:

For the body

1/2 cup sea salt (coarse grain)

4 tbsp sunflower oil

Mix well and use as a scrub in the shower, after using your regular body cleanser. Scrub the mixture gently all over the body for not more than 2 minutes otherwise it could be abrasive and also dry up the skin. Use ones or twice a week only. Point to be noted after using any kind of scrub is that the water should not be warmer than room temperature.

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For the face

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp drinking water

Mix well and apply on the skin in upward circular motions. Wait about 5 minutes till it dries off and then rinse with tap water (cool or at room temperature). This mask does tend to be drying on the skin, so it is a boon for oily skin types. Dry skin folks may altogether skip this mask.

Image source: citydesert.wordpress.com

Aloe vera

Even 6000 years ago, aloe vera plant grew widely all over Egypt and it was touted as the most potent plant containing vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, nutrients and salicylic acid. It suits all kinds of skin types and treats all sorts of skin conditions from dryness and eczema to oiliness and acne, from baby skin care to mature, aging skin care - just about anything and everything related to skin and hair.

Get Set Girl's Recommended Recipe:

Choose the oldest leaf on the plant which tend to be in the outermost circle of the leaves. Cut that leaf near the base. Now cut a portion of this leaf enough to use on your face/body/ hair. Just let the remaining leaf sit somewhere in the kitchen as it will seal off on its own cut, self preserving itself.  Slit the portion that you have cut in the center to open the jelly part inside and simply apply it. It can be left on the skin or hair for as long as desired, even overnight.

Image source: educatehealthforever.com

Frankincense oil

Frankincense oil is derived by steam distilling the resin of Frankincense plant. It is an anti-aging super power and also reduces age related spots and wrinkles.

Get Set Girl's Recommended Recipe:

10 drops almond oil

2 drops Frankincense oil

1 cotton ball/ pad

 Just blend the oils together and apply on the skin using the cotton. Let it absorb into the skin.

Image source: howarddavidjohnson.com

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Dead Sea salt mask

Dead Sea has no many nutrients in it that it was and still is believed that a mere dip in the sea can cure many diseases. 

Get Set Girl's Recommended Recipe:

2 tsp Dead Sea salt (substitute with Epsom salts)

1 cup distilled water

Mix together to make a brine. Apply on the skin and let it dry. Re-apply as it dries up.

Image source: dead-sea-cosmetics-shop.com

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Steam Cooked Choco Walnut Cake

Wanna indulge in some chocolate sin? Who said that you can't make your own cake and have it?

This recipe for steam cooked choco walnut cake is super simple. It takes only a couple of basic ingredients and preparation time is less than 5 minutes, cooking time 30 minutes. The advantage of this recipe is that you don't need an oven to bake the cake. You can simply cook it through steam in a regular pressure cooker or an electric rice cooker. So go ahead and satisfy your sweet tooth with this delicious cake recipe.

Ingredients:

1. Pressure cooker chocolate flavored cake mix - 120 g

2. Walnut powder - 1 cup

3. Oil - 15 ml

4. Milk - 100 ml (if you are skipping the walnuts, then 50 ml milk)

Method:

Step 1. Empty the contents of the cake mix into a large bowl. I used Pillsbury Choco Idly Cake Mix.

Step 2. Pour in 2 tbsp of oil and just give a light mix. Any kind of oil will do, except the heavy aromatic ones like mustard oil. I used refined sunflower oil.

Step 3. Add half the quantity of milk (50 ml), little at a time so as to avoid lumps and mix faster and easily.

Step 4. Gently fold the batter to get a creamy and light consistency.

Step 5. Blend 1 cup of walnuts coarsely to get large grained powder. Blending them too fine will make them ooze out their oil and turn it into a paste rather than a powder.

Step 6. Add the walnuts into the cake batter.

Step 7: Add the remaining milk, again a little at a time and mix it in to the batter to get a thick consistency.

Step 8. Grease your mould with few drops of oil so that the cake doesn't stick to it while cooking and de-moulding will be easier and smoother. I used medium sized idly plates. You can also use any bowl which is slightly larger than the quantity of the batter.

Step 9. Fill the moulds 3/4th with the batter, as it will rise while cooking. If you too use a medium sized idly plate, then 1 tbsp of batter into each mould will be sufficient. Tap the plate/ mould on a flat surface to evenly spread the mixture and release any trapped air in the batter. However, do not tap too much or the cakes won't come out fluffy.

Step 10. Sprinkle some of the walnut powder and some more crushed walnuts on the top for some added crunch to the cake.

Step 11. Fill the pressure cooker/ electric rice cooker with 1 cm high water (around 1 - 2 glasses) and put the mould inside. Put the lid on and let it cook without a whistle on for about 30 minutes. You know when your cakes are ready when you get the chocolatey aroma all over your house and if you poke a fork into the cake, it should come out clean without any traces of batter sticking to it. Depending on your cooker, you may need to cook a bit longer. I used an electric rice cooker, and the cakes were done in 30 minutes flat.

Step 12. When the cakes are done, take off the cooker and let cool on the kitchen counter/ table with good ventilation. It would take nearly 15 - 20 minutes to cool down. If the cake does not completely cool down, it will break and crumbl when you try to take it out of the mould, so be patient at this stage.

Step 13. Take a knife and go round the edges of the cake to loosen it from the mould. Invert the mould on a serving plate and tap on the mould to let go off the cake.

Step 14. Garnish with more walnuts or chocolate if desired. Just eat and relish the cake you have just made! As you can see, they came out like little fluffy, soft, buttery smooth choco idlys (errrr...cakes!). This recipe made 16 such idly cakes.

Step 15. This is the most important step of all. Share this recipe and link to this blog post with your friends and spread the goodness!

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