Dermalogica Porescreen SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen with Niacinamide
This is the 3rd Dermalogica sunscreen that I have had the privilege of looking at over the past few years.
Product review
Olehenriksen Banana Bright Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 30
This is a formulation review of one of the few Made in Europe sunscreens to make it to the Sephora USA’s bestselling list
Product review
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Refillable Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30
This is a review of the formulation of Fenty Beauty’s sunscreen that has a moisturiser. Is this a sunscreen? is this a moisturiser?
Product review
prevage city smart sunscreen SPF 50+
This is a partial product review of Prevage sunscreen
Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 42 with HA
This is a review of the formulation of Shiseido sunscreen, which is an oil-free formulation
Product review
First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide SPF 30
This is a review of the formulation of First Aid Beauty Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
Product review
Peter Thomas Roth Max Vitamin D-FenseTM Sunscreen Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This is a review of the formulation for Peter Roth’s sunscreen.
Product review
Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 42
This is a formulation review of Shiseido’s Moisturiser/ that also acts as a sunscreen.
Product review
Formulation review of Milk Cooling Water Jelly Tint
This is a product review of Milk Cooling Water Jelly Tint, which is a transparent, set gel make-up stick.
How Hindus reject other Hindus
It’s been a super ODD fortnight: I can live with the Western media’s disregard of fact-checking and wildly berating India because that’s their modus operandi. Even if they had some valid criticisms of how India will/is autocrat, journalistic write-ups disregarded
Product review
Molton Brown Advent Calendar 2023
Product review of Molton Brown Advent Calendar that is now available to purchase from Selfridges or Molton Brown
John Lewis Advent Calendar 2023 review
This is a product review of John Lewis’ beauty advent calendar for 2023. It is a pity that it is not more readily available because it is an excellent calendar
What keeps ingredient manufacturer’s awake at night?
The Green Deal is going to change things for sunscreen manufacturers. Its about time to burn the UV filters that harm the environment to the ground
Fortnum & Mason Beauty Advent Calendar 2023
This is a product review of Fortnum & Mason’s beauty advent calendar for the year 2023. It is one of the few calendars with so many full sized products
The White company advent calendar
This is a product review of the White Company Advent Calendar for 2023. Look away now if you love this calendar and want no spoilers
Huda Beauty Advent Calendar 2023
The 2023 advent calendar has not dropped yet – but there are alternatives and today’s blog I wanted to ask you, whether you should really be buying them
Why you should avoid Fragrance Advent calendards
Unfortunately this blog is a complete rant about how much I hate fragrance advent calendars that offer minimal value for money
HARRODS BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR 2023 product review
This is a product review of HARRODS BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR 2023. This is one of my favourite calendars and I’m super excited.
Elemis beauty advent calendar 2023
This is a product review of the Elemis beauty advent calendar 2023, which is really a calendar that’s made for diehard Elemis customers, and that’s fair.
Selfridges Beauty Advent Calendar 2023
Product review of the Selfridges Beauty Advent calendar for the year 2023, which you can join a waitlist for (link in blog)
Liberty Advent calendar 2023 product review
This is a product review of the Liberty Advent calendar 2023 – I must say that I am absolutely pleasantly surprised by the contents
feelunique 2023 beauty advent calendar
This is a product review of one of the cheaper advent calendars on the market: its important that you don’t expect the world of such calendars
Bobbi Brown 2023 advent calendar
Product review of one of the most boring advent calendars that I have had to look at this year. I feel as if I am in some type of induced coma, b/c its exhausting writing about this boring calendar
lookfantastic 2023 beauty advent calendar
This is a product review of lookfantastic’s 2023 advent calendar for beauty. This is one of the cheaper advent calendars out there.
Harvey Nichols 2023 advent calendar
This is a product review of Harvey Nichols 2023 beauty advent calendar and I am as with all such calendars, super excited
cultbeauty advent calendar 2023 product review
This is a product review of cultbeauty’s advent calendar for 2023. I am not going to give you any spoilers – but try harder cultbeauty in 2024
Product review
Which advent calendars should you NOT be buying?
Today’s blog is very much about which advent calendar SHOULD YOU
Product review
Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar 2023 product review
Product review of 2023 Space NK Beauty Advent calendar
Product review
Supplements and the skincare business
It’s fascinating to see what is sold at beauty retailers and for me as an entrepreneur, what DOES NOT SELL. Yes, I know
Product review
Beauty advent calendars 2023
Its that time of the year when I dump 30 or so product reviews of advent calendars onto my blog. I am so excited
Labelling for cosmetics in India
If you are interested in the nuances of cosmetic labelling, then this is the post for you. India, the land of the small SKU has created cosmetic labelling requirements that would do the British Raj proud.
Product review
soultree kajal product review
Today’s blog is a product review of soultree’s kajal, in the darkest shade of black that I have seen for some time
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Light Rose Gel
This is a product review of forest essentials light rose gel, which on the instructions reads as something that should be used as light moisturiser
Eyeliners that are shiny and glittery
Victoria Beckham Beauty have added these delectable kajal satin eyeliners that have an element of glitter and metallic sheen to them
Product review
Penhaligons Product Review
This blog is a perfume review of Penhaligon’s scent library that contains 6 EDPs, 3 EDTs and 1 Colognes and I am marginally thrilled
Forest Essentials’ Light Day Lotion SPF 25
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ Madurai Jasmine & Mogra Light Day Lotion, which honestly has not lasted as long as I want
Product review
Shifting sands in the Indian beauty sector
I recently went back to India and specifically engaged in my favourite activity: visiting neighbourhood mom & pop stores and corner pharmacies
Product review
New perfumes on the block….?
This blog is probably one of many perfume reviews that I will do. My criteria is I either like or I don’t and I will tell you why.
Product review
Forest Essentials’ product review: eye serum
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ Under Eye Serum which contains red banana flower and potato starch.
Do Ayurvedic products disclose all their ingredients? Part 1
Until quite recently, I could not have written this blog. BUT that changed this year, when Forest Essentials opened its first store outside India
Product review
Forest Essentials 60 day product review 2023
This is a 60 day product road-test of most of Forest Essentials’ new products or recent launches. I am super-excited
The worst products I bought in 2022
I have been overdosed with all the 2022 best product reviews in every single imaginable category. What about the worst of the worst?
Product review
An ode to Tom Ford: which Tom Ford product?
Tom Ford is being acquired by Estee Lauder. This is a move that will permanently change the fabric of this beauty brand. My ode to Tom Ford
Fragrance advent calendars 2022
This is a product review of fragrance advent calendars for 2022
selfridges advent calendar 2022
This is a product review of Selfridges Advent Calendar, which does ship globally. Selfridges are extremely reliable as vendors go.
net-a-porter advent calendar 2022
This is a product review of net-a-porter’s advent calendar which I have been buying for 2 consecutive years for friends.
Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2022
This is a product review of the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar for 2022 which is now available for sale
Jo Malone 2022 Beauty Advent Calendar
This is a product review of Jo Malone’s Advent Calendar that is now available to purchase (even though its still September)
Harvey Nichols Advent Calendar 2022
This is a product review of Harvey Nichols 2022 Advent Calendar. This is the first time that the luxury departmental store has succumbed to this.
Buying beauty advent calendars 101 – 1
Literally, there are hundreds to choose from and I am here to simplify the job of buying an advent calendar.
feelunique advent calendar 2022
feelunique’s advent calendar is honestly, a young person’s desire. Anyone above the age of 35, should seriously question their life’s existence if they favour this calendar
The Elemis Skin Wellness Advent Calendar 2022
The Elemis Skin Wellness Advent Calendar 2022 is available for purchase now and is packed with only Elemis curated products.
lookfantastic advent calendar 2022
This is a product review of lookfantastic’s advent calendar for 2022, which is already available for pre-order.
Diptyque Advent Calendar 2022
This is an update on the Diptyque Advent calendar, which is largely a mix of home fragrances (candles), some fragrance and body products.
Space NK beauty advent calendar
This is a product review of Space NK beauty advent calendar, which is now available to be waitlisted and ships globally
cultbeauty advent calendar 2022
The festive season is upon us and this blog is a product review of the cultbeauty advent calendar 2022, which is available for pre-order
Fortnum & Mason 2022 Advent Calendar
This blog is a product review of Fortnum & Mason’s Beauty Advent Calendar review. Yes, its only September but is available to purchase.
Product review
Juicy Chemistry – what do I think of the brand?
There are so few Made in India brands and a relatively new brand is Juicy Chemistry, which has a plethora of products. Are they any good?
Product review
Bioderma Photoderm M SPF 50+
This is a product review of Bioderma Photoderm M SPF 50+ for melasma and is designed to protect against Blue Light because of its very high Iron Oxide content.
Product review
Bioderma Spot-Age SPF 50+
This is a product review of Bioderma Photoderm Spot-Age SPF 50 which is specifically targetting dark spots
Product review
Bioderma Photoderm Lait Ultra (Moisturing Lotion) SPF 50+
This is a product review of Bioderma Photoderm Lait Ultra (Moisturing Lotion) SPF 50+ which is a moisturising non-sticky body lotion
Product review
Bioderma Photoderm AR SPF50+
This is a product review for Bioderma’s Photoderm AR SPF50+ for reactive skin. The sunscreen says “redness cream.”
Product review
Bioderma Photoderm Aquafluide SPF 50+ tint
This is a product review of Bioderma’s Photoderm tinted sunscreen that is an SPF50+ and is a dry touch formulation for sensitive skin.
Product review
Grown Alchemist hand cream product review
This blog is a review of Grown Alchemist’s hand cream. This is a Made in Australia product and I am excited because I don’t get Australian products where I live!
Product review
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Recovery Mask
This is a product review of Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night repair eye mask. Its exciting for me because I absolutely love eye masks
Product review
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors and HA
This is a product review of the Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors and Hyaluronic Acid product. In English, its moisturizer.
Product review
IZIL green tea clarifying mask
THis is a product review of IZIL’s clarifying green tea clay mask for skin brightening. Essentially it detans and lightens the skin
Product review
Victoria Beckham beauty lipsticks
This is one of my favourite products that I have bought in the past seven to eight months. Despite its price, I use it frequently and it gives me much joy.
Product review
rms beauty lipstick
This is a product review of a well-known North American clean beauty brand, rms beauty, which is one of the original pioneers in clean beauty
Product review
ILIA colour block lipstick product review
Continuing with my clean beauty lipstick review, this is ILIA’s colour block lipstick product review. Different from the others?
Product review
kjaer weiss lipstick
This lipstick is one of the first luxury high-end natural lipsticks on the market and find out what I think.
Product review
Basic errors in ingredient labelling
As part of the products I review, I came across this product. You know me: I had to look at the label first!
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Pure Lavender Water product review
This is a product review of Kama Ayurveda’s Lavender Water, which is advertised as being a face & Body mist.
Product review
Which fragrance should be part of my summer wardrobe?
There must be a word for people who like to smell good all the time and have an aversion to bad smells. That is me.
Product review
diptyque reinvigorating body balm
Diptyque is the epitome of Frenchness and this is an anhydrous body balm (ie it contains no water), so I am keen to test this.
Product review
juicy chemistry mango argan and shea butter
Its not often that I get to review baby products. This is a product review of juicy chemistry’s baby body butter.
Product review
Ordinary products for Indians
The Ordinary makes its entrance into the Indian market at the same price point it is available in India. This is excellent news for consumers.
Product review
Amouage CIEL parfum
This is a product review of Amouage’s CIEL parfum. Its an expensive fragrance that I use sparingly (its expensive), but I love it
Product review
Kama Ayurveda’s Kumkumadi Cleansing Oil
This blog is a product review of Kama Ayurveda’s cleansing oil from its Kumkumadi range. Find out if I like it or bin it.
Product review
Forest Essentials Chandan Varnya Lepa
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ new range of ready to use masks, which are more expensive than dry powder masks.
Product review
Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask
This is a product review of Tatcha’s Kissu Lip Mask, which is a first for me. I don’t usually review such indulgent products because the money comes out of my own pocket.
Product review
Charlotte Tilbury Facial Oil
This is a product review of Charlotte Tilbury’s face oil. Continue reading to find out what I think of this oil
Product review
Omorovicza deep cleansing face mask
This is a product review of Omorovicza deep cleansing face mask, which is packed clay that is enriched with natural minerals from the ground.
Product review
Forest Essentials haldi varnya lepa product review
This is a product review of Forest Essentials haldi varnya lepa, which is a pre-made face mask containing 4 types of turmeric.
Product review
Wishful Rose Quartz Lift & Glow Peel Off Mask
This is a product review of Wishful’s Rose Quartz Lift & Glow Mask, which is priced at US$39 for 55g (so not a bargain)
Product review
Beauty Delights Ramadan Calendar by Huda Beauty
Last year Huda Beauty introduced its first ever Ramadan calendar, which is spectacular similar to this year’s calendar.
Product review
Forest Essentials Sunhere Din body mist product review
Sunhere Din, is Forest Essentials’ travel sized (10ml) body mist, that is a melange of citrus and white floral notes. Its a beauty.
Product review
Your Good Skin Anti-Oxidant day cream SPF 30
In my previous blog, I’ve spoken about how it is difficult to find a good moisturiser mainly because there is a big gap between: what we expect of a moisturiser what it can actually do. I have come up with
Product review
Why is it so hard to buy a good moisturizer?
I realised that I don’t review as many moisturisers as I should, but people constantly want suggestions about a good product.
Product review
Black Friday sale – make up
Many of you will be rushing to buy the latest gizmo with a hefty discount, but my “gizmo” is make-up. Wohoo!!
Product review
Black Friday sale – DECIEM skincare
From previous years, the best time to buy skincare is the Black Friday sales that take place over the month of November
Product review
Is it cheaper to buy Forest Essentials in India or the UK?
Forest Essentials is finally available for purchase in the UK. The next question is, is it cheaper to buy these products from India? And if so, by how much.
Product review
A UK celebration of Forest Essentials products
Forest Essentials is an Indian brand and now, some of its products are available for purchase via the UK website of etailer lookfantastic, which is cause for celebration.
Product review
Caucasian skincare routine 50+
This is a skincare routine for a friend that’s just turned 50, is female and is Caucasian. She also plays a lot of sport!
Product review
juicy chemistry plum and orange face mask
This is a product review of juicy chemistry’s plum and blood orange face mask.
Product review
Selfridges beauty advent calendar 2021
I unashamedly love Selfridges. This is one of my favourite portals to shop online and I’ve been looking forward to their calendar with much anticipation!
Product review
New Angance hydro gel eye mask
This is a product review of a gel mask for the eyes that I found at the Middle East Beauty exhibition recently.
Product review
New Angance sheet mask
Today’s blog is a product review of this South Korean inspired French brand, or is it the reverse? Anywho, this mask is the brand’s bestseller.
Product review
DERMASTIR Tsunami product review
This is a product review of a French brand that I found at the beauty expo in Dubai
Product review
Harrods advent calendar 2021
The Harrods Beauty Advent calendar is one of the most luxurious calendars on the market – this year it truly is exceptional!
Product review
Indian skincare routine for 50+
Trust me when I write that Indians are genetically blessed with great skin. For real. However, small tweaks can help slow down ageing and this is what today’s post is about.
Product review
Beauty advent calendars: to buy one or to not?
The beauty industry has a recycling problem that is made worse by retail practices.
Product review
Risks of over-exfoliating for Asians
I’ve been speaking to women about their skincare routines and I wanted to talk about over-exfoliation now and the problem it creates.
Product review
No FOMO clay masks
Today’s blog is the “go-to” list of clay masks that are on my “NOT TO USE” list. There is really no polite way of writing this.
Product review
Top 5 clay masks that actually work
In today’s blog, I am going to rank all the clay masks that I have used and reviewed over the past few years.
Product review
fresh Umbrian clay purifying clay mask
Today I am reviewing fresh’s clay mask, which is a simple clay mask that uses Fuller’s Earth (or multani mitti) as the main ingredient.
Product review
The Inkey List Kaolin Clay mask
Today’s blog is a product review of Inkey List’s basic clay mask. It is cheap at £5 for 50ml and my expectations are low. How could I be disappointed?
Product review
Juicy Chemistry Frankincense face wash
This is a product review of Juicy Chemistry’s facewash, which I have been using for over a month. Find out what I think.
Product review
Regulation of essential oils
This is the fourth and final blog on fragrance allergens and brings to a (temporary) end everything I have to say on essential oils
Product review
How to safely use essential oils
This blog just outlines basic essential oil safety, which if you use essential oils regularly you should be following.
What is an essential oil and adverse reactions to them
There is no fixed definition of what a natural essential oil is. An essential oil (e.g.) lavender is derived from a plant, herb, fruit, roots, leaves etc and is a mixture of chemicals that in the plant perform vital functions.
Product review
The problem with buying essential oils
A reader prodded me to write this blog recently. I have kept postponing it because its a difficult to make consumers realise the tremendous risks associated with essential oil misuse, when they are so readily available.
Product review
Ingredient focus: Ascorbyl glucoside
This blog is a deep-dive into Ascorbyl glucoside as an ingredient, and is part of a wider Vitamin C series that I am writing.
Product review
Forest Essentials Kumkumadi night cream product review
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ kumkumadi night cream, whose main constituent is a Kumkumadi oil
Product review
Ingredient focus: THD Ascorbate
This blog is a deep-dive into THD Ascorbate, a Vitamin C derivative that is found in many, many Vitamin C serums.
Product review
Juicy Chemistry Rose Water product review
This blog is a product review of Juicy Chemistry’s preservative free rose water. Find out if I would buy this again
Product review
Ingredient focus: Ascorbyl Phosphates
In today’s blog, I continue with my series on Vitamin C derivatives, looking at the research out there and its utility in serums.
Product review
How to layer products?
I recently caught up with a friend, who was confused about the order of application of products. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Product review
Ingredient focus: Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
As promised, I will take a deeper look into individual Vitamin C derivatives over the next few blogs. What is Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate? Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate is a stable, lipophilic derivative of Vitamin C. In English, this means: it is a stable
Product review
What Vitamin C serum can I buy in the market?
Today’s blog is part of a longer more complex Vitamin C series. It would be helpful if you see today’s blog as setting the scene, for the grand entrance of a superstar.
Product review
Forest Essentials Parijat product review
It has been almost three months since I last reviewed anything from Forest Essentials, (arguably) the world’s most luxurious Ayurvedic brand.
Oxybenzone is not benzene
I am writing this blog because overnight, the number of queries regarding “benzene”, “oxybenzone” and “neutrogena” have shot through the roof on my blog.
Product review
Farmacy cleansing balm product review
I am on a mission to find a cleansing balm that removes make up and mineral sunscreen and does not give me zits in the process!
Product review
Versed Day Dissolve cleansing balm product review
Cleansing balms are really not my go to product, but with the summer, I am tripling sunscreen usage and make-up and hence, the search for a Holy grail cleansing balm.
Product review
Aesop anti-blemish masque product review
This is a product review of a clay mask, which if you are a regular reader of my blog, you’ll know I am not a fan of. However, this is an excellent mask.
Product review
What is Sahara Indigo?
Indigofera Tinctoria or Neel or Sahara Indigo is used as a natural dye and in skincare its supposed to be used as a skin lightener.
Product review
What is blue tansy oil?
This blog is a short and sweet description about an ingredient that is uncommonly used and you may wonder if its a miracle ingredient
Product review
Can I use more than one face mask at a time?
Is it possible for you to multi-mask? That is, use more than one face mask at a time without completely damaging your skin?
The droppy eyelid fix
Before I seriously consider having “eyelift surgery” called blepharoplasty, I’m going to give my nuface device a serious workout
Multiple product test – 40 day end review
More than 40 days ago, I started road-testing a real melange of products ranging from Indian brands, such as juicy chemistry to non-Indian products, such as Wishful. Find out which I would buy again
Product review
Farmacy facial cleanser
This blog represents a product review of Farmacy’s facial cleanser that is meant to be “ultra-gentle.” Find out if it is in fact, mild.
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Sanjeevani Elixir product review
Today’s blog is a product review of a Forest Essentials’ product that I have been using as a day moisturiser. Find out if I loathed or loved it.
Product review
NIOD Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid product review
This product review is of a L-Ascorbic Acid product that has been stabilised in a manner that is unique to NIOD. Also, its a high percent of Vitamin C at 30%
Product review
Wishful Honey balm jelly moisturiser product review
Wishful, is a Huda Kattan brand and this is its flagship moisturiser. Find out my experience of using this product has been!
Product review
Worst products for Q1 2021
As a blogger I pay for my products and I think that is why I am so viscerally offended by this short list of terrible products.
Product review
Are you a TTC person?
I receive questions that readers must ask a doctor. In today’s blog, I am revisiting what I aim to achieve in writing my blog.
Product review
izil golden mask
In today’s blog I am giving izil’s golden face mask a spin. I have not used a honey mask for a long time so I am fascinated.
Product review
juicy chemistry Saffron, Rose and Australian sandalwood face scrub
On paper, this is mainly a sugar and salt face scrub, which honestly I would not ordinarily buy for myself. But I am surprised.
Product review
Neal’s Yard Geranium & Orange body balm
What’s the difference between this body balm and (e.g.) a moisturiser? For starters, Neal’s Yard mainly use organic ingredients (and hence they are more expensive). The body balm has no water (i.e., its anhydrous). Such a product is more intense
Product review
juicy chemistry rose and fig lip balm
Based on my past experience of using this product’s formidably cheap ECOCERT products, I had mentally prepared myself for disappoint. I was pleasantly surprised and its a lesson for me to believe in “never say, never.”
Product review
Biossance Squalane and Rose Vegan Lip balm
Biossance has been in the news because of its tie-up with Reese Witherspoon. Its a vegan brand that relies on plant sourced squalane.
Product review
Glow recipe Papaya sorbet cleansing balm
I started to use it as a replacement to the YourGoodSkin Exfoliating Face wash, which I simply disliked. I have so far used this balm about five times and I think that’s enough to deliver a verdict.
Product review
Multi day product test – take 2
I have completely abandoned my 40 day product test and I can do so because generally the product’s I was testing were rubbish. Period.
Product review
Paula’s Choice Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30
This is an extremely popular moisturiser which also has SPF 30 protection. Being a moisturiser it should permit repeated application….
Product review
YourGoodSkin Brightening Exfoliating Face wash
In my recent road-test of semi-budget products I choose YourGoodSkin Brightening Exfoliating Face Wash as my go to facewash.
Product review
IZIL Regenerating Serum product review
IZIL are a Moroccan brand that started-up less than a decade ago. I know the founder, a lovely and ambitious woman. Honestly, IZIL make some amazing products, which I believe NRI and Indian’s would love.
Product review
Which are my favourite lip products?
One of my readers, who appears to be a professional beauty/skincare expert in her own right recently asked me what my favourite lip products are. This question is like my dream exam question.
Product review
Dr Dennis Gross C + Collagen brightening mask
My skin is both sluggish and dull at the moment. This mask with its promise of brightening should be just what the doctor ordered.
Multiple product road test for 40 days
I returned from India about a month ago, and I am embarrassed to admit that apart from sunscreen and a facewash, I have been using ZERO products. And my face is poorer for it (as you can tell)
Product review
Forest Essentials Lip Balm Coconut Kesar
I promise this is the final lip BALM (its not a serum) from Forest Essentials’ that I will be reviewing. Please God, no more lip balms.
Product review
Which sunscreen to pack to the Maldives?
This blog is written at the request of a beach-vacationing reader. Always a pleasure to answer your questions, so please do keep them coming!
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Noor Nikhaar Cheek Tint product review
***I have no connection to Forest Essentials’ in any shape or form. I am a paying customer and my product review is in my current status as a non-affiliated, independent skincare blogger.” Introduction Forest Essentials’ shortly after International Women’s Day
Product review
How to prepare and protect your skin for Holi
This post is my obligatory contribution to your Holi defence strategy against potential skin barrier damage And Happy Holi!
Product review
Tejasvi Emulsion: how to use it in the spring
Forest Essential’s Tejasvi Emulsion is a firm winter favourite. But how do you use the leftover product in the spring? Find out here
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Silk Skin Tint
Forest Essentials’ recently expanded into colour cosmetics, with their lip balms. Recently, they added a skin tint, cheek tint and an eye product.
Product review
What changes can I make to my skincare routine?
As time goes by, I am increasingly being asked for skincare suggestions. I am always happy to oblige!
Product review
Bioderma vs Avene sunscreens
A reader recently asked me if Bioderma Photoderm SPF 50+ or Avene very high protection cream SPF 50+ offered higher protection against UVA radiation. After all, “Bioderma had a PPD of 42” and surely that was higher.
Product review
NIVEA facewash for mixed to oily skin
This facewash is the second facewash from NIVEA that I am giving a spin. The first product was excellent so I have high expectations of this product.
Product review
NIVEA facewash for normal skin
NIVEA produce a line of facewashes that almost all look identical. Don’t be fooled!
Product review
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
I feel as if I am late to the party: cetaphil have an almost cult following and this is the first time that I am testing their product!
Product review
Yves Rocher Purifying Cleansing Gel
I don’t review many products from this brand. I have only ever found it in India, although its name would indicate its a non-Indian brand.
Product review
Lakme Blush & Glow gel facewash
I have reviewed a fair number of Lakme products, and frankly they make a great sunscreen at a cheap price point. I am looking forward to this gel!
Product review
innisfree green tea foam cleanser
This product is the first South Korean face cleanser that I have used. It is more expensive than Indian high street staples, but I am generally satisfied with the innisfree products I have used.
Product review
Avene cleanance cleansing gel
I used this particular facewash for many years when I was younger. The formulation is pretty much the same.
Product review
Clean & clear morning energy face wash
Clean & Clear are a Johnson & Johsnon brand and despite the whole talcum powder incident, I am a fan of this brand. I am hoping this cheap as chips facewash doesn’t dent my image of J&J.
Product review
Neutrogena facial cleanser (normal to oily skin)
Neutrogena’s facewash is a staple in my cousin’s bathroom. I am never sure if she uses it to clean her feet or face, but I have had ample opportunity to use this face wash in the past.
Product review
Happily Unmarried facewash for oily skin
This is the second facewash that I am testing from the same brand. I may have been greatly influenced by the brand’s genius marketing…
Why you should invest in a good facewash
In this blog I explain the importance of a good facewash in stopping your skin barrier from becoming impaired. An impaired skin barrier is a recipe for disaster.
Product review
fabindia facewash with scrub (neem and tulsi)
Anything that has neem & tulsi in it, flies off the shelf in India and this is unsurprising, as both neem and tulsi are known to keep acne at bay.
Product review
fabindia kesar and chandan face wash
This facewash is the second fabindia facewash product that I am reviewing as part of my series on facewashes.
Product review
fabindia Face Wash Avocado (Dry to Normal Skin)
fabindia have multiple face washes. I am reviewing a product which contains avocado oil applying my rudimentary and basic test.
Product review
kaya everyday skin booster facewash
kaya products can be found practically everywhere. The facewashes are priced above the ordinary Lakme, fabindia etc range.
Product review
Richfeel Anti-Acne Face Wash product review
This is an anti-acne facewash and I really was quite happy with the ingredient list, until I got to the end…
Product review
JOLEN face cleansing gel
Jolen are famous in the personal care market for their bleach. I was surprised that they made facewashes too!
Product review
happily unmarried face wash
This is a face wash for normal to dry skin. Honestly, the only reason why I bought this product is because of the marketing, which is genius.
Product review
What am I buying this month? (February 2021 edition)
As the 2020 end of season sales threaten to seep into February, I have a wedding to prep and attend to.
Product review
L’Occitane Almond Milk Concentrate
L’Occitane’s almond concentrate was probably the first serious almond product that I started to use, yonks ago.
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Velvet Body Silk Cream
This product is the only body cream from Forest Essentials that I have been regularly using for many years.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Kokum Almond Body Butter
Kama Ayurveda produce a velvet-like body butter, with almond oil, coconut oil and kokum butter, which is indigenous to India.
Product review
UMA Absolute Anti-Aging body balm
This is the 4th Uma Oil product that I am about to review. It came as a gift with purchase, hence the tiny size of the product
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Roop Nikhar Gulab Facial Ubtan
This is a product review of my first facial ubtan, so I am cautiously optimistic rather as opposed to being wildly ecstatic.
Product review
fabindia lightening & brightening face pack
If you don’t know what fabindia is, then I am sorry I can’t help you. I am kidding (not really). The marketing blurb from their website is, “Fabindia is India’s largest private platform for products that are made from traditional techniques,
Product review
Fabindia Night cream – moisturiser
This is the second product from Fabindia that I am reviewing. Its always exciting for me to review Made in India products.
Product review
Fabindia de-pigmentation cream
I am always pleasantly surprised to find a stash of whitening products to test. I am strange that way.
Product review
111 SKIN Rose Gold Radiance Booster
This is a US$ 135 serum from 111 Skin. I haven’t been disappointed by the brand’s masks and I am really looking forward to reviewing this product.
Product review
The difference between a body butter and body lotion?
In today’s blog I am going to take you through a subtle (but important) distinction between an actual body butter and moisturiser.
Product review
Juicy Chemistry Fig, Vanilla & Blood Orange Body Butter
This is the third body butter from Juicy Chemistry that I am reviewing. After the love-hate review of the previous body butters from this brand, I have a reasonable expectation that this will not be a terrible product.
Product review
An idiot’s guide to pH
If you ever thought what is pH and what is the fuss? Well, you have finally come to the right place (and like me), you should have paid more attention in school.
Product review
Lotus Herbals detan face pack product review
This is a cheap as chips “detan” face mask, which in English is a clay mask with cheap preservatives.
Product review
AVEDA body lotion calming aroma
Ordinarily, I don’t review body lotions, but I do go through many crap ones during the winter months. And there is no time like the present to introduce new products
Product review
Neal’s Yard Rose Formula Antioxidant Facial Mask
This is my first clay mask from Neal’s Yard, a British brand that I have not tested for my blog before. Super excited!
Product review
Semi-industrial strength balms for the winter
These are five of my favourite winter balms, for those times when even Palmer’s cocoa butter fails to relieve dry skin.
Product review
Clinique Micellar Water product review
I am excited at the prospective of testing my first micellar water this year: Clinique’s offering gel based light make up micellar water!
Product review
10 super-easy ways to take care of your winter skin
It is not crushingly cold in South East Asia at the moment, but that’s not stopping me from doing a “Joey” and wearing all my clothes at the same time. Winter has arrived
Product review
Wedding skincare preparation
You may be anticipating that this blog is about the bride. Let me disabuse you of that notion: this blog is for everyone attending the wedding except the bride. In the cruel light of inept camerapersons (all the aunts that
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Tejasvi Emulsion
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ Tejasvi Emulsion, a cow ghee based product that is designed for once a week use.
Product review
Juicy Chemistry Jasmine, Lemon & Tea Body Butter
This is the second body butter from Juicy Chemistry, an ECOCERT brand, that I am putting to the test. I hope I have more success than the first product.
Product review
Forest Essentials Madhu Rasa Gulaab Jal lip balm
This is the second lip balm from Forest Essentials that I am testing. It contains Rose petal pigments and has an interesting smell.
Product review
Forest Essentials Madhu Rasa Anar Rasa lip balm
Forest Essentials make their entrance into coloured cosmetics with tinted lip balms and kajals. This is the first lip balm I test this year.
Product review
Forest Essentials kajal
This is a non-affiliated product review of one of Forest Essentials’ brand new make up launches. Brave move during a pandemic.
Product review
Worst skincare products – 2020 edition
The worst products I paid for and used in 2020? Too many to list but here are a few that I am certainly going to avoid in the future!
Product review
My best buys for 2020
This is my very short list of products that I tested in 2020 and still continue to use. Enjoy!
Product review
Lotus Herbals Sunblock SPF 70 PA+++
I don’t come across many SPF 70 sunscreens, mainly because they are not permitted in the EU. There is good reason for this and you can read about it in my previous blogs.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Daily Defence UV block SPF 50 PA+++
This is one of three sports specific sunscreens that Lotus Herbals make. They refer to it as a “sunblock” or “UV block” and I can’t decide which is more misleading.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Whitening Gel Creme SPF 50 PA+++
This is an SPF 50 product, so I am expecting some serious protection against UVB radiation.
Product review
Lotus Herbals UV Screen Matte Gel SPF 50 PA+++
This is a Matte gel offering from Lotus Herbals. Find out what I think of it.
Product review
Lotus Herbals 3-in-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF 40 PA+++
This is a product review of a “3-in-1” sunblock purporting to provide SPF 40 and PA+++ protection. Find out what I think.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Dry Touch Whitening Sunblock SPF 40 PA+++
This is a “dry-touch”, “whitening” product that is also a “sunblock.” My mind hurts in trying to reconcile the nonsense of these marketing words.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Sun Block Cream SPF 30 PA++
This is the first “sun block” in the multitude of sunscreens that I am reviewing for Lotus Herbals. Very exciting!
Product review
Lotus Herbals Skin Lightening Anti-Tan Sunblock SPF 30 PA+++
The mind boogles under the weight of the claims made by this product: anti-tan And a sun block. Has Lotus Herbals hit the jackpot of sunscreens?
Product review
LOTUS HERBALS MEN ADVANCED DAILY UV SHIELD SPF 30 PA+++
This is one of (what feels) like too many repackaged sunscreen products from the same brand. That being said, this is the first “men” product!
LOTUS HERBALS Moisturising Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 PA++
This is a product review of what feels like a million sunscreens that are produced by Lotus Herbals.
Product review
LOTUS HERBALS kids SUN BLOCK CREAM SPF 25
This is the only Lotus Herbals’ sunscreen for children. It is an SPF 25 and is therefore, already not my favourite.
Product review
NIOD 30 day product review
My NIOD products cost US$ 390 and this blog is the outcome of a 30 day product test. I pay for my own products so this is an unbiased and independent product review.
Product review
Most abundant ingredients in your facial oil
In today’s blog I am looking specifically at what the first 5 ingredients in a facial oil are and their properties?
Product review
The Most Common Oil or Wax in your Facial Oil
Today’s blog looks at the underlying ingredient list of 64 products on Sephora USA and cultbeauty and answers the self-posed question: which is the most common oil of them all?
Product review
The essential guide to Essential Fatty Acids
What is a fatty acid and how does it help your skin (if at all). That’s what we are asking today!
Product review
Blue Light and skin: the 50,000 feet view
This is the most up to date and comprehensive idiot-proof guide to blue light and skin. Do not be intimidated, I am here to help.
Product review
Factors that affect the intensity of UV radiation
Just to remind you, UV radiation is made of shorter wavelength UVB and longer wavelength UVA rays. Approximately 5% of UV radiation reaching the ground’s surface is UVB radiation and the remainder is UVA radiation. Specifically, most of UVA radiation
Product review
Do I need to wear sunscreen now, especially during a lockdown?
I frequently get asked by my own family whether they should wear sunscreen during the winter. This blog is meant to be a reference for them!
Product review
What is the Solar UV Index?
The Solar UV Index or UVI is a useful indicator of when to protect yourself against UV radiation. The WHO have provided guidelines that countries can adopt at a national level, ensuring global uniformity.
Product review
NIOD Flavanone Mud product review
This is the second face mask that I will be testing. It comes in the most disenchanting packaging and costs a small fortune.
Product review
NIOD Myrrh Clay product review
This is a product review of NIOD’s once a week Myrrh Clay product.
Product review
cultbeauty pre Black Friday sale what to buy 2020
cultbeauty has transformed to become one of the best beauty online portals. Now that it has a reputation to uphold, it also has some of the best bargains.
Product review
Sanskrit Saponins by NIOD
As part of this month’s product review I am using Sanskrit Saponins by NIOD. Its a product specifically designed to “clean” skin.
Product review
Juicy Chemistry Hair Mask
I am not a big fan of hair masks, mainly because I (wrongly) believe my maggi noodle hair is beyond any redemption. This hair mask is the second product of Juicy Chemistry that I am reviewing. You can read all
Product review
Juicy Chemistry’s Neroli, Rosehip & Tamanu
Juicy Chemistry’s Neroli, Rosehip and Tamanu body butter is full of amazing, high quality ingredients. Find out what I think.
Product review
REN Mineral SPF 30 (Zinc oxide)
This is a product review of REN SPF 30 mineral sunscreen whose only sunscreen filter is 22% Zinc Oxide.
Product review
Adopting a new skincare routine
Many young women do not have a proper skincare routine. This is a mistake on so many levels.
Product review
How to prep for a micro-wedding in the time of Trump and COVID-19
This is not a normal bride-to-bes guide for how to prepare for your wedding. Sorry, I am not suggesting breast implants.
Product review
A study showing the merits of an SPF 100+ sunscreen
In today’s blog, I briefly discuss the merits and demerits of a study involving SPF 50 and SPF 100+ sunscreens
Product review
NIOD product test – the beginning
This is a lengthy introduction to the products I will be road-testing. Trust me, it is not by choice that I write endless amounts here.
Product review
Best budget face masks
These are face masks that individually do not cost US$ 70 or a similarly extortionate value. And no, none of them are from Sephora or from K-Beauty central!
Product review
Tata Harper short-road test product review
This is my short and sweet product review of Tata Harper’s products, which were a bargain at US$110
Product review
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask product review
This is a product test run of Tata Harper’s award winning resurfacing mask
Product review
What does caffeine do to your skin?
Most of us are guilty of excessive caffeine consumption. Today’s blog is to find out the impact of excessive caffeine consumption on skin.
Product review
The critical importance of glycerin in skincare
After water, glycerin is the most common ingredient that you will find in moisturisers. I am hear to talk about glycerin and its importance in skincare
What are the various moisturizing agents contained in your product?
I am looking at the composition of moisturizing agents – which is important to what I do. I apply my analysis to Wishful Honey Jelly Balm Moisturizer
Product review
Tata Harper road test
This is a short and sweet product review of Tata Harper. This range represents the epitome of clean beauty and I am excited to give them a spin
Product review
How does the skin keep itself hydrated?
This blog looks at the internal mechanism by which the skin keeps hydrated
Product review
Kama Ayurveda vs Forest Essentials which produces the better products?
After road-testing Forest Essentials (240 days) and Kama Ayurveda (30 days), I can now suggest best-in-class of each luxury Ayurveda range.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda 30 day product road test
This is my 30 day final product review of all the Kama Ayurveda products that I have been using for the past month
Product review
Kama Survana Haldi Chandan clay mask
This is a product review of the only face mask that I was sold at Kama Ayurveda. It is a multani mitthi (Fueller’s earth) and sandalwood face mask
Product review
Eladi Hydrating Ayurvedic Face Cream by Kama Ayurveda
This is the product review for Kama Ayurveda’s bestselling day Eladi face cream. I have used this product over a 30 day period.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Kumkumadi Brightening Face Exfoliator product review
This is a product review of Kama Ayurveda’s facial exfoliator, which contains walnut shell granules and sesame oil.
Product review
Jo Malone Vitamin E lip conditioner
This is Jo Malone’s lip conditioner, which came in the brand’s signature packaging and was a delight to open!
Product review
UMA brow oil product review
This is the first hair product that I am reviewing and I am excited because there are so few brow products on the market.
Product review
The Uma Anti-aging scrub dupe
I love the Uma anti-ageing scrub, as it leaves your skin beautifully smooth and soft. But a dupe to this expensive scrub must be an option.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Pure Rosewater product review
This is a 100% pure rosewater product, that is made in India. Its made using steam distillation, which preserves amongst other things, fragrance and natural colour.
Product review
Hyaluronic Acid in skincare (part 2 of 2)
This is part 2 of my hyaluronic acid series, focussing on topical treatments. The billion dollar question is, are they any good?
Product review
Hyaluronic Acid in skincare use (1 of 2)
The following 2 posts are unashamedly technical because there is a propensity for the beauty industry to dazzle us with the supposed benefits of hyaluronic acid.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Rose Face Cleanser
Product review of Kama Ayurveda’s face cleanser. Aloe vera, rose and jasmine essential oils feature prominently in this product.
Product review
Hyaluronic Acid: the 50,000 feet view
I am going to start looking at hyaluronic acid in great depth over the next month. Before I go down that route, I wanted to write a short summary of my current understanding and build on this.
Product review
The White Company Advent Calendar 2020 review
The White Company is quintessentially British and I like to think of it as the more affordable version of Jo Malone.
Product review
Forest Essentials’ cane sugar polisher product review
This is Forest Essential’s cane sugar and tamarind body polisher, which at US$45 is no bargain. A body polisher is a fancy name for a scrub.
Product review
prevage hydrating shield SPF 50 PA++++ product review
prevage have recently reformulated their US$ 68 sunscreen, which features Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, as well as a patent that the brand won’t talk about.
Product review
erbaviva baby sunscreen SPF 30 product review
This is an SPF 30 sunscreen for babies that uses 20% Zinc Oxide. A family member has been slathered in this for the past 6 months.
Product review
Fortnum & Mason Beauty Advent Calendar product review
Fortnum & Mason are certainly attempting to get ahead of the competition, by releasing their Advent Calendar earlier than everyone else.
Product review
cultbeauty Advent Calendar 2020 product review
cultbeauty’s beauty advent calendar ordinarily punched above its weight in terms of the products that it contains. There are clearly benefits of being a global beauty portal in the times of a pandemic.
Product review
Selfridges Beauty Advent Calendar 2020 review
This is the only beauty advent calendar that offers a service – a Selfridges Complimentary Beauty Concierge Appointment! How exciting!
Product review
Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar 2020 product review
This is a value for money product review of the popular Space NK advent beauty calendar.
Product review
Glossybox Advent calendar
The Glossybox Advent calendar sells out so quickly, that I have never been able to get my hands on it.
Forest Essentials’ Mashobra Honey & Vanilla body lotion product review
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ Mashobra Honey & Vanilla body lotion
Product review
Forest Essentials Aloe Vera & Neem body lotion product review
This is a product review of Forest Essentials’ recently launched Aloe Vera & Neem Body Lotion
Product review
DIPTQYUE Advent calendar 2020 value for money
In this blog, I look at the value for money proposition that is offered by the Diptqyue advent calendar for 2020.
Product review
The Jo Malone Advent Calendar 2020
The Jo Malone Advent Calendar 2020 is released on 1st October. The question is should you spoil yourself and buy the calendar or just buy $475 (£320) of Jo Malone products
Which Beauty Advent Calendar: let’s do the maths
(See also Jo Malone beauty advent calendar 2020: do you really need to buy it?) What is a Beauty Advent Calendar? “Advent” means Coming in Latin and an advent calendar simply counts the days to Christmas. In the UK, a
Product review
At home exfoliating treatment
Yes, you did read that correctly. I am staggered at the price of some of body polishers, scrubs and the general quality of these that are available in the market. Uma’s anti-aging body scrub is US$ 50 for possibly 1
Product review
COVID-19 changes in beauty and what to buy
McKinsey write that the “the global beauty industry has been shocked by the COVID-19 crisis.” This is an understatement.
Product review
Which is the cheapest sunscreen you can buy?
Do all SPF 50 Neutrogena sunscreens have an average price of US$ 12.99? Are sunscreen sticks the same price as sprays?
Product review
UMA anti-aging body scrub
This is the second product I am reviewing from the uber chic brand, Uma oils. Given the disappointment that was the uma brightening face mask, I am keeping my fingers crossed as I try this product.
Product review
izil almond scrub
This is one of the few almond scrubs for the body that I have seen on the market. At USD 50 it is an indulgence.
Product review
The odd unproductive fortnight
When the world stops making sense not because of COVID-19 but the skin barrier and leopards, how do you move forward?
Product review
izil rosy glow toner product review
izil are an emerging Moroccan beauty brand that have recently launched a rosy glow toner. I am excited to try this product.
Product review
Product road-test: Kama Ayurveda one month road-test
What am I testing? I will be road testing products from Kama Ayurveda, UMA and Elizabeth Arden. Kama Ayurveda In pre-COVID-19 times, I went to a physical Kama Ayurveda store, where I spoke to a human being (and not a
Product review
ultrasun face fluid SPF 50+ PA++++
This is the first ultrasun product I used and have been using it intermittently for about 3 years.
Product review
ultrasun sunscreen for body SPF 50+ PA++++
This is my go-to sunscreen for the body. It is an industrial sized vat at 150ml.
Product review
ultrasun anti-ageing and anti-pigmentation SPF 50+ PA++++
A long overdue product review of ultrasun, a Made in Switzerland sunscreen. I am surprised not more Swiss formulated sunscreens have not cropped up in the market.
Product review
Top sunscreen recommendations
One of my most read blog pages is “Top 5 sunscreen recommendations,” that focuses mainly on sunscreens available in India. Since then, I have written close to one hundred blogs just on sunscreens and looked at hundreds of sunscreen labels.
Product review
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
This is a new formulation for an existing SPF 40 product, which worked perfectly well. Does the revised formulation offer protection?
Product review
Natural Moisturizing Factors – the 50,000 feet view
Before my obligatory deep-dive into NMFs and lipids, I thought I’d write the short and simple version. Please let me know your thoughts.
Product review
THE INKEY LIST SPF 30 Daily Sunscreen
****An update (10 August 2020)***** I received this product a few days ago. It is as I predicted: tinted to compensate for the white chalkiness of the Zinc Oxide. It is an odd mousy brown colour (I can live with
Product review
Forest Essentials’ Lip Balm and Lip Scrub
This is a lip cream (and not balm) and scrub duo that costs less than USD 20. Despite the low price point is it worth the money?
Product review
A beginner’s guide to moisturisers
Baffled by words such as “emollient”, “humectant” or simply wondering why our moisturiser doesn’t work? Me too, but look no further.
Product review
GLOW Avocado Melt Sleeping Mask
Glow is a popular K beauty brand that is designed for the non-South Korean market. This is one of several of their products I’ll be testing.
Product review
Herbivore Moon Fruit Superfruit Night Treatment
I am very excited about this facial treatment and its just not the attract lavender colour that thrills me.
Product review
Lano Face Base Aussie Flyer Recovery Mask
Lanolin, is the hero ingredient in this super-hydrating mask. Is this just what the doctor ordered for my dry parched skin?
Product review
Hydrating Lip Gels – Flashpatch by patchology
With all of us wearing masks, its very easy for lips to become dehydrated especially as they adjust to the lack of extra hydration from lip balms. Are lip masks upto the task of increasing hydration?
Product review
Emma Hardie Brightening collection product review
Emma Hardie released a 10th anniversary collection of its daily skincare products, including its bestselling moringa cleansing balm. What are my impressions?
Product review
Yves Rocher White Botanical Moisturizing Lightening cream
I will be applying this test From the product list of ingredients, I’ve identified only Glycyrrhiza Glabra root extract or Licorice extract as a skin lightener. Licorice extract is one of the safest skin lightening agents with few side-effects. (see
Product review
The Face Shop White Seed White Moisture Cream
No harmful chemicals that I look for are present in this product. Frankly, the first time I read the product list, I was underwhelmed. It is quite a short list of ingredients for a Korean product and I didn’t identify
Product review
innisfree white tone up cream
This is one of innisfree’s brightening creams. Like other South Korean brand’s it has a really long list of ingredients that are mainly “actives.” An active ingredient, is supposed to do something to your skin. E.g., Niacinamide as an active,
Product review
ANEW Fairness Night Cream
ANEW is Avon’s contribution to fairness creams. Its Rs 1,500 and find out if you should buy it.
Product review
colorbar HYDRA WHITE
According to the label, this is an “intense hydrating night cream.” I will be applying this test. There are no harmful chemicals present that I look for. Q2) Are skin lightening ingredients present? (Q3) Strategy for skin lightening? Whitening ingredients
Product review
L’Oreal White Perfect Clinical Day Cream
I will be applying this test Q1) Are harmful chemicals present? Yes. This fairness cream contains parabens, which I avoid. Parabens are cheap and effective preservatives that are endocrine system disruptors (estrogen mimickers). (See also Chemicals to Avoid – Parabens). If you
Product review
L’Oreal Paris White Perfect Night Cream
This is the “White Perfect” night cream from L’Oreal.
Product review
Pond’s white beauty BB+ cream SPF 30
Pond’s have added this relatively cheap BB cream that offers everything: fairness, SPF protection and is a BB cream…
Product review
Fair & Lovely fairness cream
Product review of India’s No 1 fairness cream. This has been around since 1975 so let’s find out what the fuss is about.
Product review
Olay White Radiance lotion
Review of Olay White Radiance, one of many whitening products produced by Olay.
Product review
Lotus Professional Japanese skin whitening creme
This product advertises itself as a “Japanese Sakura Skin Whitening creme.” The temptation is to believe that a singular Japanese sourced ingredient, Sakura is responsible for skin lightening. This is not the case and Lotus have created a very standard
Product review
Citra pearl fair face cream
Product review of Unilever’s fairness cream, Citra Pearl Fair
Product review
Product review
Product review
Neutrogena Fine Fairness Cream
This product is Made in India by Neutrogena and has an SPF. Surprisingly, no Oxybenzone, which Neutrogena sunscreens in the US frequently use.
Product review
Brillare Skin Lightening creme
I will be applying this test This is an unashamedly simple product. It has no harmful chemicals that I look for and therefore all that remains is to highlight the ONLY skin lightener in this product: Niacinamide. Niacinamide is present
Product review
O3+ Professional White Day Cream SPF 15
This product has to be one of the cleverest products I have reviewed in a while. Find out why.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Whiteglow Skin whitening & Brightening Hand and Body lotion
I will be applying this test: Q1) Are there harmful chemicals contained in this product? Some of the harmful chemicals I look for include parabens and this contains, methyl- and propyl- paraben. Parabens – are cheap and effective preservatives that
Product review
Product review
kaya brightening day cream
Review of kaya’s white lumenis skin lightening product
Product review
swiss image Absolute Radiance Whitening Day Cream
Product review of an absolute radiance whitening cream
Vedic Line Natural Fairness Lotion
This product says its designed to “promote fairness & Sun Block.” Today, I won’t hold the appalling grammar against this company. I would only stress to you that there is no chemical or sunscreen that makes you 100% resistant to
Jolen Whitening Cleansing Gel
I will be applying this test to check whether you should purchase this product or not: Harmful chemicals? This contains both methyl- and propyl- paraben. I am not a fan of parabens (see Chemicals to Avoid – Parabens) and therefore,
Product review
Garnier White Complete Fairness Night Cream
This is one of Garnier’s fairness creams that occupies every pharmacy and mom & shop in India. Should you be rushing out to buy it?
Product review
VLCC Skin Whitening Day Cream SPF 25
This is a popular product for skin whitening. Should you be buying it?
Product review
111 Rose Gold Brightening Facial Mask
After the success of the 111 Eye Mask, will a full face mask deliver an excellent result?
Product review
111 Skin Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask
In the ordinary course of my routine, I don’t use eye masks. However, my experience with Skyn Iceland’s eye masks was so positive that I ordered these. Of course, both brands are competing in different markets. Skyn Iceland’s eye masks
Product review
Skin whitening injections
Glutathione is a fabulous anti-oxidant. Its found in all her cells. Should we be taking it intravenously to lighten skin?
Product review
Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask
I have a love-hate relationship with Kiehl’s. Some of their products I really love…at the moment, I am using their Butterstick Lip treatment, a product which I don’t know how I managed to survive without. However, I dislike the fact
Product review
Forest Essentials Facial Treatment Masque Sandalwood & Nagkesar
Introduction Indian cosmetic companies don’t make a lot of ready to use masks. Ordinarily, a face mask is some type of semi-solid powder. Nine out of ten times this is ubtan, which you take home and make a paste out
Product review
Forest Essentials Facial Cleansing Paste
In my previous blog, “How does a cleanser work?” I have indicated that cleansers by necessity can and do, damage your skin barrier. A damaged skin barrier is characterised by some/all of these: Tightness (especially after washing) Roughness Dryness Skin
Product review
Skin lighteners in your pantry cupboard: turmeric and saffron
In today’s blog, I’ll be considering the skin lightening ability of turmeric and saffron. Unless you have been living in an igloo off Greenland along with a few endangered species, you will have heard of at least one of these.
Product review
Skin lightening ingredient: Azelaic Acid
Azelaic Acid has been used as a prescription grade treatment mainly for melasama, acne and roseacea. However, recently you may have noticed the plethora of products that contain Azelaic Acid ranging from The Ordinary’s 10% Azelaic Acid to Paula’s Choice
Product review
Skin lightener: sandalwood oil
Before I started researching this blog, I wrote out everything I knew about sandalwood. As you can see, it would neatly fit onto a matchbook: Grows in Australia and India Possibly the plant equivalent of an endangered species (?) Used
Product review
Altruist Sunscreen SPF50
This is the number one bestselling sunscreen on Amazon UK. Should this sunscreen be part of your sunscreen stable?
Product review
Saltee Sea & Sun lotion SPF 30
Product review of the new kid on the block with a tan accelerator
Product review
Five Forest Essentials favourites
I have received feedback that I am too harsh on Forest Essentials. I don’t think so. It’s a brand that sells itself as a luxury brand (reflected in the price, packaging, and the purchasing experiencing) as well as expertise. The
Product review
lixirskin Soft Clay Rubber
This is the second product form lixirskin that I am trying out. Its an exfoliating clay mask thing. Confused yet?
Product review
lixirskin VITAMIN C PASTE
This is a quick morning mask that contains 10% Vitamin C. It promises to protect and correct in one…
Product review
Skin lightening ingredient: Kojic Acid
The trade names “Dermawhite HS”, “Vegewhite” or my favourite, “Melarrest” are all trade name mixtures where the principal skin lightener is kojic acid. Kojic Acid is a natural agent that’s obtained from koji malt, which has been used for the
Product review
Skin lightening agent: Licorice
How is licorice extract – what we know as a sweet – a skin lightener?
Product review
Skin lightening agent: Aloe vera
The origin of the words Aloe Vera is majestic. Aloe vera derives from “Allaeh” (an Arabic word that means “shining bitter substances”) and “Vera” (Latin word that means “true”) (Sánchez et al). If you live in a hot and dry
Product review
UMA Ultimate Brightening Face Mask
This is a US$ 70 face mask. It’s Made in the USA, but it would appear that the product raw materials are entirely sourced from the Founder’s family farm/estate in India. I can’t help but visualise this as Tata Harper’s
Product review
Skin lightener: Mulberry
Mulberry or Morus Alba extract is an exceedingly common ingredient that’s used in skin lightening products.
Product review
VERSED Hydrating Plump Mask
I am product testing a plant based collagen face mask. This is my first such mask and I am excited!
Product review
Skin Lightening Agent: Vitamin C
I have written endlessly about the benefits of Vitamin C. I am a fan. Is it also a skin lightener?
Product review
FARMACY Bright On Massage-Activated Vitamin C Mask
This is a lavender to green colour changing Vitamin C mask. I am excited to try this sustainable science experiment in a tube.
Product review
Which is the most expensive lipstick?
Have you ever thought of buying lipstick that offers value for money? If not, why not…?
Product review
Abeille Royale Repairing Honey Gel Mask
This is a USD 80 honey gel mask. I have noticed that honey masks are expensive and I am curious to understand the justification for the high price point.
Product review
Sarah Chapman Skinesis Instant Miracle Mask product review
I am product testing an at home clay mask that takes the novel format of a rubber gel that sets on your face. You peel off the mask to reveal a new you?
Product review
Ingredient focus: Niacinamide
This is Part Two on Niacinamide. In Part One, (LINK attached here), I outlined why Niacinamide is important to energy storage in our bodies and how it is a skin lightener. Today’s blog outlines the functions of Niacinamide There is
Product review
Skin lightening ingredient: Niacinamide
Niacinamide is not an ingredient that you would associate with skin lightening, so find out why its so prevalent in products.
Product review
Which sunscreen should I buy from Sephora USA?
Similar to my previous blog covering sunscreens that were available for sale in India, I undertook this exercise for Sephora USA…
Product review
Top 5 best-selling sunscreens on Nykaa to buy now
This blog summarises my top choices of sunscreens from Nykaa.
Product review
Avene Day Protector UV EX SPF30 PA+++
I sometimes wonder why sunscreen makers need to make multiple sunscreens, when they have a perfect product already. Let’s find out.
Product review
Innisfree Intensive Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Despite all the fuss around K-beauty, this is one of the few South Korean sunscreens that make it to Nykaa’s bestseller list.
Product review
Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen
One of the final products on Nykaa’s best selling sunscreens is Clinique’s SPF 50, which appears to be the same formula that is also sold in the USA.
Product review
Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
This is Kiehl’s Mineral sunscreen which provides extensive broad spectrum coverage. Its the same/similar formulation to the Made in USA Kiehl offering. Should you buy it?
Product review
Kiehl’s Ultra-Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ with Anti-Pollution
I had almost forgotten this product was a sunscreen as I was so taken by its self-professed “anti-pollution” benefits.
Product review
L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Super Aqua Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ Long UVA
This is an inexpensive sunscreen (Rs 515 for 30ml). It’s interesting, that Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreens are a combination of low and high priced items.
Product review
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF50+
A 21.6% Zinc Oxide formulation is (literally) the American way to make sunscreen. I’m not surprised this product finds itself on Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreens.
Product review
Clinique SPF 50 UVA/UVB Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face
This is an American brand sunscreen that is on average, 30 percent cheaper in the USA. As much as possible, it makes sense to buy this outside India.
Product review
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisturiser SPF 15
A massive difficult for acne prone skin is finding non-comedogenic sunscreen. It’s unsurprising that this oil-free sunscreen is in Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreen list.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Daily Multi-Function Sunblock SPF 70 PA+++
Lotus Herbals make cheap sunscreens. Having reviewed over 80% of Lotus Herbals’ sunscreen range last year, I am intrigued to see if absolutely anything about this sunscreen brand has changed.
Product review
Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion Sunscreen
This is a revised formulation of Lakme’s sunscreen and it does merit a separate review. Its also in Nykaa’s top 20 best selling sunscreens.
Product review
Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen Gel SPF 35 PA+++
If you are wondering what this is doing on Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreen list – don’t worry, you are not the only one!
Product review
L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Even Complexion SPF 50+
I reviewed this sunscreen last year and given its on Nykaa’s bestseller list I do feel compelled to revisit this product.
Product review
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50
This sunscreen is one of the most expensive sunscreens on Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreen list. Should you fork out additional cash for this?
Product review
Lakme Peach Milk Moisturiser SPF 24 PA++
The price of this sunscreen is INR 350 for 200ml, which makes this one of the cheapest sunscreens on Nykaa’s bestselling sunscreen list.
Product review
Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++
This is an expensive sunscreen but it is still within Nykaa’s bestseller list. This indicates to me, that Indians are willing to pay a high price if they believe a sunscreen works and/or is branded.
Product review
Ponds White Beauty Sun Protection Day Cream SPF 30
This product is a whitening cream that is also a sunscreen. In fact its a top-selling sunscreen on Nykaa. Does its dual function make a difference?
Product review
Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution Sunscreen SPF 50
Clarins Anti-Pollution sunscreen is a best-selling sunscreen on Nykaa. If you are as baffled as I am, keep reading.
Product review
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++
This is a best-selling sunscreen on Nykaa’s website. Pricewise, it is an absolute bargain. Should you rush online and purchase it now?
Product review
Should you avoid products with Methylisothiazolinone?
Never heard of Methylisothiazolinone? Don’t worry after reading today’s blog, you’ll be able to spell it backward.
Product review
Thalgo SPF 30 Age Defence Sun Lotion
Thalgo’s sun lotion appears to be in the top 20 bestselling sunscreens on Nykaa. Find out if you should buy it.
Product review
How is skin pigment melanin made?
Understanding how melanin is made in our bodies forms the foundation of figuring out how good the ingredients are in your skin lightening product. But it starts with this super-geeky blog
Product review
Do I need to wear sunscreen separately from my foundation?
Do you think that foundations and CC creams provide sufficient SPF coverage? Do you use a separate standalone sunscreen every day?
Product review
What gives our skin its colour?
The foundation of any skin lightening or brightening product is the reduction of melanin in our skin. Does melanin play a photoprotective effect on our skin?
Product review
3 must-have summer staples
I am not at all using my lock-down to learn a new skill. I’m spending most of it window shopping. Find out what is on my list.
Product review
The Organic Pharmacy Sunscreen SPF 50
This is a Made in the UK brand that my mother has been using for a decade now. Should you rush out to buy it?
Product review
Shiseido Vital Perfection Product Review
This is a 30 day product review of Shiseido’s Vital Perfection skin brightening and anti-aging product line.
Product review
Forest Essentials eye cream product review
This is the final instalment in the product review of Forest Essential’s eyecream. Find out if our test subject will be repurchasing this product.
Product review
Forest Essentials Sun Fluid SPF 50 PA++
Product review of Forest Essentials’ sun fluid. Will this be a Forest Essential product that delivers?
Product review
Barrier repair creams for excessive face mask usage
This post brings to your attention the work of a wound care practitioner on how to protect wounds for frontline workers. I’ve followed up with barrier repair cream suggestions.
Product review
Salicylic Acid cheat sheet
This blog outlines benefits and side effects of using Salicylic Acid
Product review
Glycolic Acid cheat sheet
This blog addresses major benefits and side effects of using Glycolic Acid
Product review
AHA and BHA – everything you wanted to know in one place
If there is one blog you read on this subject, it should be this…
Product review
Why are chemical peels so important when we talk about exfoliating acids?
(All references supporting the acid series are available at this LINK) Introduction I am starting a new series on exfoliating acids, which I will admit, is a topic that’s been written to death by researchers, beauty influencers, product manufacturers and
Product review
Product review
MOA The Green Balm product review
This is an organic calming/cleansing balm that has under ten ingredients, including unusually, yarrow.
Product review
Kama Ayurveda Sun Protection SPF 21 PA++
Kama Ayurveda is one of the few Ayurvedic brands that lists all of its ingredients. Is this product worth buying?
Product review
mamaearth Ultra Light SPD 50 PA+++
This product is marketed as suitable for Indian skin tones. Should you buy it?
Product review
Which acids are important?
So many acids, so little time to apply all of them (unless its a lockdown). Which acids should you understand
Product review
Dry Shampoos 101
Dear Peeps, Apologies for the radio silence and thank you for your concern. Contrary to the unmitigated desire of my life’s equivalent of Lady Voldemort, I do not have Covid-19, but I have been working on my coursework for my
Product review
Garnier SkinActive Fairness Cream
It’s not always easy figuring out why certain products contain sunscreen filters, when evidently they are not sunscreens…
Product review
Shiseido 30 day product road test
I am road-testing Shiseido’s Vital Perfection skincare range over a 30 day period.
Product review
Biotherm Life Planktoon Essence-in-mask
This is the first product I am using from Biotherm, containing its Life Plankton™ ingredient. It promises perfectly smooth, hydrated and glowing skin.
Product review
fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask
This is the second face mask I am using from fresh. Will I be impressed or disappointed?
Product review
skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Face and Eye gel
This is the third set of face masks that I am reviewing from the same brand. Buy?
Product review
How can I protect my skin during Holi?
This year, revisit your priorities before you attend a Holi party….
Product review
Fresh Start Mask with Ice Age Mud
The second face mask from Skyn Iceland is a blue clay mask. Find out if it fairs better than the first mask.
Product review
fresh Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy Boosting face mask
This is the first “natural” product that I’ve used outside Forest Essential’s range. You’ll be pleased to hear that I paid the full retail price of GBP 21 for 30ml for this product. I purchased it from Space NK (and
Product review
Garnier SkinActive Eye Make-Up Remover
Let’s find out if this is shockingly purple liquid removes eye make-up or not…
Product review
NIVEA Double Effect Eye Make-Up Remover
I love the vivid blue colour of this product. Is that enough to ensure it takes up permanent residency in my cleansing routine?
Product review
NIVEA MicellAIR oil free eye make-up remover
This is an oil free eye make up remover. In the absence of a solvent, this will always be a formulation that may not deliver results. Is this true here?
Product review
No 7 Oil free eye make up remover
I’ve tested the normal (or I guess, completely oily version) of No 7’s eye make up remover. Does this live up to the high standards set by the original product?
Product review
Forest Essential’s Floral Make-up remover
Is this beautifully fragrant product any good?
Product review
No 7 Eye Make-up Remover
I subject this to the forearm test. Find out if I’ll repurchase this product or not.
Product review
skyn ICELAND Arctic Hydration Rubberizing Mask
I unashamedly bought this in the winter sale at a discount – US$ 20 for 3 masks or US$ 7/mask. It retails at US$ 12/mask. This is a DIY rubber mask – its not literally made of rubber (because that’d
Product review
Glamglow Powermud dualcleanse treatment
Find out if you should donate your money to charity or like me, buy this cleanser/face wash in the sale
Product review
Wishful Yo Glow Enzyme Scrub
This is the year’s first significant skincare launch, sold out within hours on cultbeauty…is it worth your attention?
Product review
Bello Photostable sunscreen SPF 40+ PA+++
This is an affordable favourite of Delhi dermatologists. Does it live up to the hype?
Product review
Top mineral sunscreens – CVS pharmacy cut
This is the seemingly endless sunscreen aisle of a CVS pharmacy in Manhattan. Sprays, sticks, aerosols in a ridiculous number of SPFs. It was as if I had landed in sunscreen heaven, or was it? Today’s blog has two parts.
Product review
Forest Essentials eye cream – 30 day update
This is a 30 day update of the Forest Essentials eye cream
Product review
Top 3 micellar water make-up products
Which micellar water should you pass on and which should you take home in a big truck?
Product review
Avene Cleanance Micellar water
Avene, a high street French brand, make excellent products, especially their sunscreen. Are they able to work the same magic for micellar waters?
Product review
Forest Essentials Micellar water make up remover
Forest Essentials have made a 15 ingredient containing “Ayurvedic” micellar water that takes off make-up. Does it live up to its promise?
Product review
Bioderma Sensibio H2O micellar water
Bioderma is a popular French pharmacy brand and their micellar water populates every single drugstore I have been to in the past month. Is the product any good?
Product review
Ducray Moisturising Micellar Water
The rose fragranced micellar water is another French pharmacy brand. Is it any good?
Product review
Garnier Micellar Cleansing water
Garnier products are everywhere and they are hard to avoid. Does the micellar water deserve space on your bathroom shelf?
Product review
Vichy micellar water
I was excited to use Vichy, as its not always been as commonly available as it is now. Was I disappointed?
Product review
Bioderma Pigmentbio H2O brightening micellar water
This is the first time I have seen a brightening micellar water and I am excited by it. But does it remove make-up?
Product review
Uriage micellar water (normal skin) – make up remover
The great thing about buying products in Dubai, is there so much choice and I normally wouldn’t use Uriage…But is it a worthy addition to my test group?
Product review
Uriage micellar water (sensitive skin) – make up remover
The first Uriage micellar water I tested was a resounding success. Is this the same?
Product review
Nivea micellar water (make up remover)
Nivea was a staple of my childhood and let’s find out if it makes a re-entry into my adult hood/life (?) via this micellar water
Product review
Boots expert skincare micellar water
This is the first British pharmacy micellar water that I have tested. On my mind is how it compares with its French counterparts.
Product review
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil
The distinct oily layer above the water made me think of a cleaning oil and not a micellar water…
Product review
La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra
No assessment of micellar water would be complete without La Roche-Posay’s offering.
Product review
YourGoodSkin Soothing Micellar Cleanser
This is a British pharmacy brand – in fact, its a Boot’s brand as its made for them. Is it better than No 7 or Boot’s own label?
Product review
No 7 Revitalising Micellar Cleansing Water
No 7 is Boot’s hugely popular brand, mainly because it has a kick-ass anti-aging cream. Does it bring the same level of excellence to this micellar water?
Product review
Terminal end for Forest Essential’s men’s range?
After 10 days of using the Forest Essential’s men’s range, we have had to put the brakes on our test….Find out why
Product review
Sarah Chapman – Radiance Skin Recharge system – verdict
I have used all 10 ampoules of the Sarah Chapman’s Skinesis Radiance Skin Recharge system. Expectations are high and find out if the product delivered or not.
Product review
How does a cleanser work?
How does your facial cleanser work? Why does your skin feel tight or dry after you’ve washed it?
Product review
Product road-test: Sarah Chapman
I am road-testing a 10 day radiance boosting system by Sarah Chapman
Product review
Forest Essential and La Roche hand creams
How do Forest Essentials’ blood orange hand products compare with La Roche-Posay’s skin barrier repairing cream?
Product review
The eye cream test subject
Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. But it helps if you have been using a great eye cream
Product review
Tips for looking after your skin during winter
Thinking your skin is a complete lost case during the winter? You are not alone.
Product review
Winter skin: cleansers to add to your arsenal
Should you change your cleanser in response to harsh winter conditions? Does your skin extra help during the blistering cold?
Product review
5 serums to add to your winter skincare routine
An unrelenting cold and harsh winter takes its toll on your skin. Find out what products to add to give your skin a fighting chance.
Product review
Forest Essentials vs. Clinique face-off
I’ve physically tested Forest Essential and Clinique products for several months. I’m uniquely qualified to tell you which products to invest in or avoid.
Product review
Clinique final product review
This is the 60 day update on the Clinique Vitamin C regime. Find out if its been worth my time or dime.
Product review
10 Skincare/Make-up “Must-Haves” to buy now?
What am I buying in the sale now? Find out.
Product review
Fighting the first signs of ageing
My much younger friend has immaculate skin but has recently had a baby. She feels as her skin is becoming “droppy” and has new brown spots. She desperately wants an eye cream too… In an ideal world, I would suggest
Product review
Skin whitening ingredient: Arbutin
Arbutin is a skin whitener /lightener/brightener, depending on your political sensibilities. It comes in three forms: Beta, Alpa and Deoxy (the latter is not used in cosmetics). Beta Arbutin is found naturally in leaves and barks of plants and is
Product review
7 products I wish I had never heard of – 2019 edition
Have a break, have a giggle at my expensive. See how many of the same nonsensical beauty items you bought this year!
Product review
Where the streets are only named after Vitamin C derivatives
I present to you in the simplest manner that I know how, the 101 of Vitamin C derivatives. Not all the derivatives, just the most prevalent ones
Product review
Should I buy the highest percentage Vitamin C serum?
Should you always look and pay for the highest percentage Vitamin C serum? Is there really a difference between 10% and 30%?
Product review
Clinique one month update
I have been using a 10% Vitamin C serum and Ascorbic Acid cleanser for the past month. Here are the interim results of the product test.
Product review
The gold standard Vitamin C serums
Out of six, I favour only 3 serums, as they’re backed by clinical data and a patent.
Product review
Should I use a topical Vitamin C product?
If I have a ton of Vitamin C in my diet, is there any point to a topical treatment?
Product review
What foods have the highest Vitamin C?
The purpose of today’s blog is to help you make minor changes to your diet to increase your Vitamin C content.
Product review
5 tips for looking after your skin during Diwali
Tips for looking after your skin during Diwali’s endless party season
Product review
Clinique – the 60 day product test
60 day product test of Clinique only products. Excited about their 10% Vitamin C? So am I.
Product review
Vitamin C and my fear of missing out
This blog explains in the most basic terms why Vitamin C is still an oldie but goldie when it comes to skincare. Its nothing short of the Holy Grail of skincare
Product review
WOW AM2MPM sunscreen SPF 50
This is a very reasonably priced, “Made in India” sunscreen, which has attractive packaging. Despite being Rs 599 for 100ml, I urge you to leave it in the shop.
Product review
O3+ Mattifying gel SPF 50
At Rs 445 for 50g, this is a reasonably priced sunscreen. Should you buy it?
Product review
kaya Daily Moisturising Sunscreen SPF 30
A “Made in India” sunscreen that comes so close to the finish line. At Rs 870 for 75ml, do I suggest you use it?
Product review
azafran organics SPF 30 & SPF 50 – Adult cut
Made in India sunscreens claiming to be Boot’s 4 star rated. Priced at Rs 700 and Rs 900 for identical ingredients. Are they worth the price?
Product review
Dear Neutrogena, you need to fix your sunscreens
Neutrogena’s sunscreens use a combination, called Helioplex, to give broadspectrum coverage. The only problem is Helioplex contains Oxybenzone…
Product review
Top infant and kid’s mineral sunscreens
After looking at over 50 kid’s products in CVS pharmacy (a US pharmacy chain), I can happily slap on 3 products onto my imaginary child.
Product review
Forest Essentials: the final product review (part 2)
In this blog, I share my key insights in using Forest Essential products for 4 months. Do you really need a physical exfoliator? How should you buy a new skincare regime?
Product review
Forest Essentials: the final product review (part 1)
This is part one of the final product review of the Forest Essentials products that I have been road testing.
Product review
Facial cleansers: the basics
My next set of blogs will be on cleansers. Find out as much (or as little) as you want about surfactants!
Product review
What is my skin type?
This post outlines characteristics of different skin types. Find out how you can decide on your skin type.
Product review
Forest Essentials: month one update
This is a one month review of Forest Essentials products. Find out if these products are worth your time or dime.
Product review
The importance of golden barriers
What is your skin barrier? Why is it important to product selection and is it really “golden?”
Product review
Product review
Product review
ALPHA-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50 ( 50ml )
The retail price is £29 for 50ml.
It works out at INR 2,600 plus shipping to India. Give it a miss and save the shipping and taxes worthwhile
Product review
Shahnaz Husain Sun Block SPF 60 PA+++
The retail price (at the time of writing) is INR 455 for 100g. This is at the low end for a surprisingly not hideous product.
Product review
Brillare Science Sunscreen Radiance SPF 30 PA+++
Not a fan of this product. Contains Oxybenzone, which is a “no,no” for me. Priced very reasonably at INR750 for 100ml
Product review
VLCC 3D YouthBoost SUN SCREEN GEL SPF 40 PA+++
This product is cheap at INR 265 for 50g. Its so tempting to buy this fancy sounding “YouthBoost” sunscreen gel creme. Trust me, just don’t.
Product review
VLCC Matte Look Depigmentation SUN SCREEN GEL CRÈME SPF 30 PA+++
This is a sunscreen that does not get the sunscreen 101 formulation correct. You don’t need to use it.
Retail price: INR 295 for 100g so is it really a bargain?
Product review
VLCC Youth Boost Body Lotion SPF 25
VLCC’s body lotion with SPF 25 is regularly sold as a buy 1 get 1 free, indicating the brand’s push into the market. Even at INR 399 for 400ml, please skip this product.
Product review
L’Oreal Paris UV Advanced 12H UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++
Household name L’Oreal Paris offers a blockbuster sunscreen. Does it tick all the correct boxes to be worthy of your shelf-space?
Product review
BANANA BOAT Ultra Protect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 PA+++
This is an SPF 30, PA+++ rated product. Retail price is INR 999 for 90ml, so at the mid-high end for Indian sunscreens. My verdict: Give this product a wide berth.
Product review
Banana Boat Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++
Banana Boat sunscreens are found in every supermarket and mom & pop store. Does the ubiquity of the product make it worth buying?
Product review
Avon Solutions UV Protective Lotion SPF 40 PA+++
Avon Solutions sunscreen is a high price bracket sunscreen. Is it packed with quality ingredients or does it have other features that justify its price?
Product review
kaya skin clinic Sweat-Proof Sunscreen SPF 30+
At INR 975 for 60ml, this is one of the pricier sunscreens. Price is not per se an issue if the product passes the sunscreen test.
Product review
Banana Boat Kids and Baby Sunscreen
Identical formulation of “baby” and “kid” sunscreens. Find out if ingredients are safe enough to use this formulation on your kid.
Product review
M&S Beauty Sun Lotion (Baby) SPF 50+
Infant and child sun protection is vital for kids in countries with intense UVR. Retail price is GBP 6.50 for 75ml. Despite being M&S its a “NO BUY” for me
Product review
Lotus Herbals Kids Sunblock Cream SPF 25
My view: Give it a miss Retail price: Rs 335 for 100g or (USD 4.84 for 100g) Please also see Infant And Kids: A Short Guide To Sunscreen The product contains parabens and I would “give it a miss.” (Personally,
Product review
Lotus Herbals Sunblock SPF 40 PA+++ (3-in-1 Matte Look Daily )
Product review of Lotus Herbals SPF 40 PA+++ (3-in-1 matte look daily sunblock), focussing on ingredient list. My view is give the product a miss
Product review
Lotus Herbals Matte Gel SPF 50 PA+++
Should you ever buy a product that claims to be a UV screen and not a sunscreen? Should you buy such a product with NO UVA filters? No and no
Retail price is Rs 315 for 50g or USD 4.54 for 50g.
My view: Give it a miss
Product review
LAKMÉ Sun Expert Ultra Matte Gel SPF 50 PA+++
Does this sun screen provide you with adequate UVA and UVB protection? At Rs 300 for 50ml it is a steal.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Ultra Sunblock SPF 100+ PA+++
Is this SPF 100+ PA+++ product worth buying?
MRP: Rs 795 for 30ml
My view: Give it a miss
Product review
Forest Essentials update – a cautionary tale of going around in squares
Outline of new Forest Essentials regime (again), which I will road-test over an 8 week period. A bona fide FE Ayurvedic doctor recommended changes to my regime.
Product review
Lotus Herbals Sun Block Cream SPF 30 PA++
Review of Lotus Herbals Sun Block SPF 30 PA++
MRP: Rs 345 for 100g
My view: Give it a miss
Product review
Forest Essentials: Week Four and Week Five update
Update on the last fortnight of using Forest Essential products.
Product review
O3+ Dermal zone Soothing Gel Cream SPF 30
Review of O3+ Dermal zone soothing gel cream SPF 30.
Retail price: Rs 650 for 50ml.
My view: Give it a miss.
Product review
O3+ Chamomile Facial Cream SPF 40
Review of O3+ Dermal zone soothing gel cream SPF 30.
Retail price: Rs 1,050 for 50gm.
My view: Give it a miss.
Product review
Avène Emulsion SPF 50+
This product is at the pricier end of the spectrum. It doesn’t matter. You should forgo those extra Starbuck lattes and invest in this product. (Retail price: Rs 1,447 for 50ml)
Product review
CLINIQUE mineral sunscreen fluid (face) SPF 50
Retail price: Rs 2,400 for 30ml.
My view: Give it a miss.
Product review
seba med Multi-Protect Sun Lotion SPF 50+ (very high)
Product review of seba med Multi-Protect Sun Lotion SPF 50+.
Retail price (revised): Rs 1,382 for 150ml
My view: Give it a try, as worth the investment.
Product review
Product review
Forest Essentials skincare: Week Three update
21 day skin update. Using Forest Essentials’s skincare products.
Chemicals to avoid – Benzophenone-3
In the introduction to this series (Chemicals to Avoid – Parabens), I wrote I’d periodically highlight chemicals we should avoid based on these guidelines: What is the primary use of the substance? How is the substance used in cosmetics/skincare/personal care
Product review
Forest Essentials skincare: Week Two update
14 day update on using Forest Essentials’ skincare products
The only colour removal pack you need for Holi
Need to remove every trace of Holi colours? Look no further then this post.
Chemicals to avoid – parabens
Parabens: this post outlines what their uses are and why you should avoid using cosmetic products containing them.
Product review
Forest Essentials skincare: Week One update
Short update on how my skin has fared with using Forest Essentials’ products. Were there any major breakouts or allergic reactions?
Product review
Forest Essentials skincare: worth my dime or time?
Are expensive skincare ranges worth your time or dime? To find out, join me on a 60 day routine using Forest Essentials’ products.