Cherry on Top | Beauty & Lifestyle
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How to Make Your Bathroom Feel Like a Spa

Creating the perfect spa atmosphere in your home is all about incorporating design elements that give the space a luxury feel, as well as using ‘spa’ materials to get the desired effect. Whether you want to transform your bathroom into a heavenly retreat or you simply want to make a few tweaks to make it more inviting, the following tips will help you enjoy that spa-like experience daily.

Clear Out the Clutter in Your Bathroom

Bathroom cabinets that are overcrowded with toiletries and other things will not give your space a relaxing feel. To declutter your space, start by getting rid of any items that are outdated or have not been used in a long time. Also, store any items that you don’t regularly use inside cabinets, drawers, or baskets so that they’re out of sight. The counter space should be for those items that you use every day and hopefully, this is only a couple of products at most. Everything else should be properly tucked away out of sight.

Make It Easier to Store Items

Another way to create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom is to incorporate more storage options. This includes putting in cabinets to store your hair spray, shampoo, or lotion among other things. You’ll also want to install hooks and shelves to organise your belongings. To make things easier, keep all the similar items in one place. You may also create categories by separating the items into small containers.

Include Natural Elements in Your Décor

One of the simplest ways to get your bathroom to feel like a spa is to bring in some natural décor to the space. Consider placing some potted indoor plants on the floor, the countertops, as well as other bathroom, surfaces for a more natural appearance. Alternatively, you may try suspending your potted plants from the ceiling instead. Make sure that you choose plants that will flourish in humid conditions because that’s what your bathroom is like.

Upgrade Your Toiletry

Decorative elements, such as visually pleasant bath items that match in with your colour theme, may help to reinforce the spa atmosphere. If your favourite items do not come in spa-worthy containers, try decanting your hand soap, full-size shampoo, and conditioner into attractive bottles to give them a more luxurious appearance. Clear glass jars are ideal for storing goods such as sponges, cotton rounds, and cotton balls.

Arrange your items on a tray next to the sink to give your vanity area a more elegant touch.

Create a Sense of Tranquility with Colors

Soft and subdued colours are perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Consider avoiding high-contrast colour combinations like black and white or blue and orange when designing your bathroom. These combinations might look aggressive and stimulating rather than tranquil and relaxing. Nature-inspired shades such as seafoam green and sky blue may be used with warm, earthy neutrals to create a serene colour scheme that would look right at home in an expensive spa.

 

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beauty

10 Ingredients You Must Have In Your Skincare Regime

Are you tired of browsing the internet all day and scrolling Instagram to find a skincare routine? Till now, you must be aware of the fact that it is incredibly confusing to find what you’re looking for. You also feel hesitant to add a new product to your skincare routine, fearing it won’t work for you or irritate the skin. Let’s check out the amazing ten ingredients that fall under the category of skincare superstars.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): For Brightening Skin

It is a powerhouse ingredient for getting brightening and hydrated skin. It is an essential water-soluble vitamin, and it helps reduce the immunosuppressive effects of sun-induced UV rays. If you want to reap the benefits of this amazing supplement, it needs to be ingested or applied topically to the skin. Choose your product wisely before you start looking for skincare products.

Main Benefits: Reduces acne, brightens skin, and prevents signs of aging.

Resveratrol: Fight Skin Aging

It is a magical antioxidant ingredient that helps mitigate the signs of photoaging and the appearance of dark spots, and it improves skin elasticity or firmness. The main functionality of resveratrol is protecting the skin surface, and it is applied topically. This antioxidant will boost your skin’s natural barriers and contain skin-calming properties.

Main Benefits: Protect skin surface, Fight skin aging, and improve skin appearance.

Collagen: For Glowing and Hydrating Skin

Collagen is the essential structural protein in your skin. The ultimate goal of using collagen is to stimulate collagen production, and you can also take it in the form of a supplement. It moisturizes your skin and improves skin elasticity and hydration. If you want, you can also try nutritional supplements such as Jaw-Dropping Skin Gummies by Power Gummies. These gummies are an easy and good source to improve collagen production. As well as taking oral collagen can be used daily.

Main Benefits: Moisturizes and hydrates the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid: Improves Skin Texture

It is one of the best hydrating ingredients for the skin. It not only helps improve the skin texture but also reduces the appearance of fine lines. This superpower ingredient is the best moisturizer binder which also helps in alleviating dry skin. Unlike some skincare products, Hyaluronic Acid quickly absorbs into the skin and provides you with the best defence against the culprits of ageing skin.

Main Benefits: Moisturizes skin, reduces fine lines, and replenishes cell moisture.

Salicylic Acid: Fight Acne-Prone Skin

It contains some unique properties that benefit acne-prone skin. This oil-soluble ingredient removes the contents of clogged pores that lead to superficial acne, like whiteheads, blackheads, and small red pimples. Suppose your skin breaks out due to excess oil production. In that case, Salicylic Acid is the best ingredient. It also helps address a wide range of skin conditions, such as exfoliating dead skin, reducing oiliness, and much more.

Main Benefits: Exfoliate dead skin, removes excess oil, and reduce whiteheads and blackheads.

AHA and BHA: Reduces Signs of Sun Damage

Attain the skin of your dreams with AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxic Acid). AHA cleanses and retains the bond between dead skin cells. It is effective in reducing the visible signs of sun damage and wrinkles. BHA reduces wrinkles and fine lines on the skin and improves the skin’s overall texture. If you’re still having trouble with wrinkles, try using a plasma pen to get rid of them, click here to learn more about aftercare for plasma pen treatment.

Main Benefits: Effective in increasing the production of collagen cells in the skin, it reduces the visible signs of sun damage.

Curcuminoids: Minimize Skin Inflammation

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory spice that can be used both internally and externally. It also helps minimize chronic inflammation, irritation, and UV damage that causes your skin to seem dull by suppressing excess melanin formation in the sunshine.

Main Benefits: Improves skin barrier function and reduces inflammation.

Glycolic Acid: Improves Collagen Growth

Glycolic Acid is the smallest molecule in the AHA category and is derived from cane sugar. Because of this ability, it can readily and deeply permeate the skin, making it the most efficient component for treating fine lines, wrinkles, acne, blackheads, dullness, and oiliness.

Main Benefits: Stimulates collagen production and acts as an acne fighter.

Retinol: Firm Skin

It helps produce better, healthier skin cells while also raising the number of skin-supporting elements in your skin. It’s been found to boost collagen formation and glycosaminoglycan content in the skin, resulting in firmer skin with better texture and barrier function.

Main Benefits: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles

Elastin: Improves Skin Elasticity

Elastin is a protein found in any elastic connective tissue in the body, and it is just as vital as collagen. It is in charge of the skin’s ability to return to its original shape after stretching. Elastin improves skin elasticity and gives it a smooth and plump look.

Main Benefits: Improves overall skin health

 

Mentioned are the best ingredients you must include in your skincare routine. Always choose the product wisely and check the ingredients for better skin health. Various products are available in the market that can produce chemicals free to take good care of your skin and enhance your skin health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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best swimming camps in the Caribbean | cherry on top
lifestyle

Top swimming camps that you can’t miss in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the best vacation destinations on the planet for outdoor activities and watersports. Everywhere you turn in this beautiful corner of the world there are top quality camps and clinics dedicated to everything from open water swimming to kite surfing.

For water sports fans, a Caribbean vacation is a perfect opportunity to really get to grips with your passion.

So if you are packing your bags and heading off on a Caribbean cruise in 2022, check out these top camps and clinics that you can’t afford to miss.

Odyssey Expeditions

Odyssey Expeditions, based out of Tarpon Springs in Florida, runs a great series of camps that operate in the British Virgin Islands every summer. More than just a sports clinic, the kids live together and work together, learning a huge range of skills and abilities. The camps themselves focus on a variety of activities, including swimming, scuba diving, sailing, and hiking, but the real value is the softer social skills students learn as they interact with each other throughout the courses.

Swimtrek

With swimming tours in both the British Virgin Islands and St Kitts and Nevis, Swimtrek is one of the Caribbean’s most reputable and exciting swimming camps. Over the course of a week, you’ll get a unique perspective on these gorgeous paradise islands, paddling your way through warm, calm, crystal-clear water and getting to see a completely different side of the Caribbean. Swimming up to 6km per day, you can choose from the stunning white sand beaches of the British Virgin Islands or the more dramatic volcanic landscapes of St Kitts and Nevis, but whichever you choose you’ll discover an unforgettable experience.

15 Knots Kiteboarding

Based out of San Juan in Puerto Rico, 15 Knots Kiteboarding offers a wonderfully hassle-free summer camp experience – you don’t even need to bring your passport! With some of the friendliest instructors around, 15 Knots are dedicated to making kitesurfing simple and accessible at every level, from complete beginner to seasoned veteran. Their long-running Discovery Course is regarded as one of the premier kiteboarding clinics in the Caribbean. Best of all, they are located on La Plage, one of San Juan’s most beautiful spots, and the ideal location to chill out after a hard day’s boarding with a cool, refreshing drink.

Broadreach Sailing Camp

Aimed at middle school kids, Broadreach Sailing Camp operates throughout the Leeward and Windward Islands, providing educational, adventurous, and above all fun two-week experiences for students. Their main offer is sailing, but they also provide a number of snorkelling schools as well. Most importantly, they go above and beyond the usual summer camp experience, giving their kids a complete, holistic package that helps them be more independent, understand more about the world they live in, and develop leadership skills.

Sail Caribbean

Sail Caribbean has been running camps in the British Virgin Islands for over 30 years, taking on students from as young as 11 to as old as 22. Far more than just a sailing school, they combine practical learning with environmental awareness, as well as offering more advanced courses that include navigation, docking, boat safety, and passage-making.

For anyone interested in improving their skills and discovering exciting adventures in one of the most beautiful places in the world, then a summer camp or clinic in the Caribbean might just be the best vacation you ever take!

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PRP treatment for hair loss
lifestyle

PRP: Your secret weapon in the fight against hair loss

There was a time when people shied away from cosmetic treatments due to insufficient knowledge about them. But today, things are different. Information about all the treatments is readily available on the internet. On top of it, cosmetic treatments have become extremely affordable and safe today. These cosmetic treatments are very popular amongst the masses.

One such really popular, affordable, and safe solution is PRP hair treatment. It is extremely effective against hair loss. 

What is PRP?

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. PRP treatment is used to accelerate the healing process in various parts of the body. As you would rightly guess, the main component of this treatment is platelets. Your platelets!

To the unversed, platelets are one of the core components of blood and play a very important role in our human body. They are the first responders to our body’s wounds. They travel through the bloodstream to the wounded area, stop the bleeding and promote healing.

Now let us come back to PRP. Its theory is pretty straightforward. When concentrated platelets are extracted from your blood and injected into the damaged areas(your scalp in this case), it would promote fast healing in that region. 

To extract concentrated platelets from your blood, medical professionals first draw blood from your body and add it to a centrifuge machine. The centrifuge spins at rapid speed and separates the components of your blood. They then extract only the platelets and administer them to the patient. 

Initially, this treatment was extremely popular and was widely used on sportspersons for fast healing. But over time, it has cemented a place in the cosmetic industry too. Dermatologists suggest this as the primary treatment for patients with male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

What happens during the treatment?

On the day of your appointment, the blood is drawn from your arm (mostly). Then as you wait, the concentrated platelets are extracted from your blood to prepare the PRP injection. Then the dermatologist administers the injection to the marked areas on your scalp. Usually, the platelets are injected by leaving a gap of half-inch between each injection site. Based on the desired results, several sessions might be required.

Usually, the pain associated with PRP injections is not much, but repeated injections near the same area on the scalp can cause some irritation and discomfort. If needed, the patient can ask the dermatologist for a local anaesthetic to numb the pain. Mostly, it would be in the form of a cream applied to the treated area before administering the injection. 

How effective is PRP treatment?

You must understand that PRP is not a miracle cure for hair loss. Multiple PRP sessions are required over a period of time to reverse the hair loss. The same is the case for any other treatment for hair loss.

The number of sessions that you need depends on two factors. 

  • The rate of hair loss in the untreated region 
  • The effectiveness of the first session. 

Based on these two factors, your dermatologist will suggest the frequency and overall duration of the injection.

Who is best suited for this treatment?

Here are the ideal candidates for PRP hair treatment – 

  • The treatment is best suited for those suffering from male/female pattern baldness. This is a hereditary condition that has affected a large portion of people. 
  • It can be effective for people who have suffered hair loss due to high-stress levels. This condition can be easily treated as it is not chronic.
  • It is perfect for those who are experiencing hair thinning or at the initial stages of balding but is not completely bald yet. PRP treatment would aid in growing the hair from follicles that are still functioning, and it is also used to strengthen the hair.
  • People of all age groups (18 – 72 years) can be great candidates for PRP treatment.

Are there any side effects?

The beauty of PRP treatment is that it uses components that are extracted from your own blood. This means there are way fewer risks than other treatments. However, some rare and minor side effects do happen, which go away on their own after some time. Here are they – 

  • Scalp tenderness
  • Headache
  • Temporary bleeding in the treated area
  • Mild pain in the injected area
  • Itching
  • Swelling
  • Redness

Conclusion

As you have seen in this post, PRP Is undoubtedly one of the most promising treatments for those suffering from hair loss. There are hardly any side effects, and the downtime is also minimal. A head full of hair is not tough to get anymore when you undergo this procedure from the right dermatologist. The right dermatologist can ensure that you achieve your desired results in a minimum time. 

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slow fashion | cherry on top blog
fashion

A Closer Look: Understanding and Embodying Slow Fashion

From tackling environmental concerns as product differentiators to fashion brands implementing sustainability as an industrial practice, Sustainable Fashion has come a long way. Slow Fashion is a popular, effective alternative to fast Fashion. There are numerous concepts in the sustainable fashion world, and it’s easy to become confused when some of them seem to blend. So, what exactly is ‘slow fashion,’ and how does it vary from sustainable Fashion?

What is Slow Fashion?

Fast Fashion is the opposite of slow Fashion and entails a fashion awareness and approach that considers the processes and resources needed to make garments. It promotes the buying of higher-quality garments that will last longer and the ethical treatment of people, animals, and the environment. It’s deliberate, intentional, and all-encompassing. It’s also a case for reining in overproduction, overcomplicated supply chains, and mindless consumption.

Slow Fashion/ ethical Fashion have a lot in common. They are movements that abide by the same basic principles. Slow Fashion differs from fast Fashion in that it focuses on minimizing consumption and production.

Start of Slow Fashion

Since the last decade, a wave of change has spread through the fashion industry. A growing number of brands are rejecting fast fashion principles in favor of a more sustainable approach to clothing production. Kate Fletcher coined the term “slow fashion” in a 2007 article published in The Ecologist, in which she compared the eco / sustainable/ethical fashion industry to the slow food movement.

In contrast to the fast-fashion model, slow Fashion emerged around 20 years ago, resulting in cheaper clothes and shorter trend cycles. With brands like H&M burning tons and tons of unsold garments each year, despite continued sustainability efforts to close the fashion cycle, it’s clear that this ideology is an essential part of the movement as a whole.

Essential Characteristics of Slow Fashion Brands

The values that comprise the Slow Fashion movement posit a complete overhaul of consumption and production, from high-end to small-scale designers. You can make a change by opting for a Sustainable Wedding dress at your wedding.

This approach has inspired many changes, most notably in clothing production and consumption habits. Slow Fashion has gained prominence in recent years as consumers have become more aware of the importance of higher sustainability and ethical standards.

  • Made of high-quality, eco-friendly materials such as linen
  • Frequently sold in smaller (local) shops rather than large chain stores.
  • Garments are sourced, manufactured, and sold locally.
  • Garments are more classic than trendy.
  • Frequently made-to-order to reduce wasteful production.
  • Few, different styles per collection, released twice or no more than three times each year, or a lasting seasonless collection

What is the difference between Sustainable / Ethical Fashion?

There appear to be many misunderstandings about the differences between slow, ethical, and sustainable Fashion. This is understandable given the similarities; sustainable Fashion cannot be sustainable without being ethical, and slow Fashion cannot be sustainable.

Their focus is what distinguishes them. Ethical Fashion is often concerned with human and animal rights, whereas sustainable Fashion is frequently worried about environmental impact. While slow, ethical, and sustainable Fashion all refer to aspirational goals such as reconsidering our relationship with clothing, slow Fashion combines a brand’s practices with a customer’s shopping habits. The movement seeks to establish an industry that benefits the planet and all people.

How can you practice Slow Fashion?

Think before you buy: Begin by resisting the impulse to buy something on the spur of the moment. Before putting on new shoes, consider your existing wardrobe before purchasing a product that will not match anything you own. When you’re ready to buy anything new, consider checking out secondhand apps or thrift stores first.

Watch out for expert guides: Look out for expert guides about various clothing brands that are producing ethical & sustainable, ethical shoes, affordable (Ethical) clothing brands, and organic clothing brands.

Do Research: If you come across a new slow fashion brand, do your homework and make sure you’re investing your money wisely. Examine the brand’s website for details on the design process. Is it long-term, slow, and ethical for all parties? Is the manufacturing process and place of the brand disclosed? What number of collections does the brand release in a year? Answering such questions will reveal whether a company follows through on its promises. Still in doubt? Send an email to the brand or reach out on social media.

Create a new wardrobe: This wardrobe method needs you, to be honest about what clothing is appropriate for your lifestyle. A capsule wardrobe is made up of a few items. The garments must be both functional and fashionable.

Some Slow Fashion Brands

If you’re looking for some slow fashion items, these slow fashion brands use fair practices for their environmental, ethical, and animal impacts and are great places to start:

OhSevenDays

Megan Mummery, an Australian-Canadian, founded OhSevenDays to encourage slow Fashion and the “power of circularity.” Based in Istanbul, the brand repurposes end-of-roll fabrics from the city’s garment factories to create sharp, everyday womenswear, both wearable and ethical. Essentially, it creates slow Fashion from the byproducts of fast Fashion. OhSevenDays clothing is available in all sizes, as well as custom sizing.

TWOTHIRDS

TWOTHIRDS is a company for people who are aware of the great importance of our oceans but also desire style and quality. They evaluate how many pieces they will sell from one product using their Pre-Order system: they, therefore, produce what they sell, which is yet another fantastic slow fashion approach.

Unspun

Unspun, an American brand that is working to create a world that reduces the world’s carbon emissions by 1% through a zero-inventory, low-waste process. Its product sizing is entirely adjustable, so you can always find the perfect fit.

The R Collective

Womenswear designs by The R Collective are created by reusing rescued excess materials from well-known luxury brands and manufacturers. The company makes extensive use of environmentally friendly materials, reducing the number of chemicals, water, and wastewater used in the production. It also makes sure that its supply chain pays a living wage.

Conclusion

While slow Fashion is gaining popularity, there is still a long way to go. To support the slow fashion movement, we must join a growing community looking beyond the “attraction” of fast Fashion’s low cost as well as high turnover. We can remain mindful of what a brand truly represents by streamlining our wardrobes and focusing on quality rather than quantity.

 

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fashion

Different Ways to Style Linen Sarees for Corporate Events

Sarees nowadays are found in many avatars, they can be minimalist and maximalist. And many of us are always on a hunt for simple yet aesthetic Indian sarees that can be worn in different styles at work, and we have got the answer to that – it’s linen sarees! They are one of the classic ethnic options to get you through your workday in style and elegance. 

Linen sarees are quite versatile, and you can style them with formal blazers or trendy jackets, and complete the look with some accessories like earrings, necklaces and so on. Impressed by this style tip, we have got a bunch of tips for you. So, keep reading to find out how you can create six different looks with a linen saree and adorn it to work or when attending an office event.

  • The Elegant Party Look: Linen sarees need not only be worn as your regular workwear. Don’t hesitate to use them for corporate events. We recommend pairing them with dainty jewellery, a bun hairstyle, and nude makeup to make a statement. 

Be the queen of the party by adorning alluring jewellery or antique chokers with dark, glowing eyes and curls, no matter which party you’re going to.

  • The Formal Look: Linen sarees are perfect to sport for an important meeting. They look elegant and presentable. You can opt for a uni-coloured linen saree to rock this look just like the sensational actress Nayanthara. 

You can style your linen sarees with heeled mules, white shirt or jacket addition to change the crisp scene of adorning linen weaves and reach the office presentable in this classic attire.

  • The Right Blouse: A blouse or top can provide an interesting contrast when paired correctly. Wearing the linen saree with a printed or embroidered crop top will also help you stand out from the crowd. 

Going to an evening gathering, you can experiment with your blouse options. Fancy tops, deep necks, and jazzy and long-sleeved blouses are some fantastic options for creating a striking presentation.

  • Choosing Matching footwear and arm candies: We all agree that footwear can enhance the look of your sarees, be it heels, sandals, or Kolhapuri chappals. Juttis with some zari work can also be used to spruce up your footwear style. I mean, how wonderful is that? 

Whether you’re going to work or out partying with your pals, match your linen saree with a beautiful mojaris and an ethnic potli bag to complete your look. 

  • The Perfect Accessories: Silver antique pieces and vintage jewellery are popular selections for linen saree accessories. It can help you achieve a fusion look. Chokers, earrings, and layered necklaces are some of the accessories you can adorn with linen sarees to stand out on their own.
  • Belt It: The trend of belting up your saree is immensely popular nowadays, especially among fashionistas and Bollywood celebrities. You can experiment with different draping techniques and belt saree styles to achieve such a look. 

This style highlights your waist and gives your attire a sophisticated look. You can definitely try and experiment with this style for special occasions and parties held at your office!

We hope that these suggestions keep you covered the next time you wear a linen saree. So, note them down and give these hacks a try!

 

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how to buy genuine leather bags | cherry on top blog
fashion

How to Buy Genuine Leather Bags

Leather bags have been around for centuries and have withstood the test of time. They’re a timeless accessory that many people love to wear. Leather items are known for their durability, but it’s hard to tell the difference between real and synthetic leather.

If you’re looking for quality leather bags, you’ve already made a wise choice. Leather bags are durable and fashionable. They’ll last you for many years, and they’ll only look better as the years go by.

If you find a great leather bag, you’ll want to buy it. But how can you be sure you’re buying a genuine leather bag? The last thing you want is to buy a leather bag that isn’t actually leather. Here are a few tips for buying genuine leather bags.

If you’re in the market for a new bag and want to ensure you’re getting the real thing, this guide is for you. The guide is pretty straightforward, it tells you what you need to look for when you are buying a leather bag. For example, it advises you to go for natural leather, the quality and durability of the leather, the stitching, and if it has metal or plastic buckles.

How to Buy Genuine Leather Bags

Brand

Genuine leather is the most expensive leather available. It consists of full-grain leather hides that have been tanned using natural ingredients (as opposed to man-made chemicals) and then aniline-dyed. As a result, it is the softest of all leathers and can be easily damaged by water.

Genuine leather is also the most natural as it is tanned without fillers, chemicals, or surface coatings. And as a result, genuine leather is not only stronger but also more breathable than synthetic and coated leathers. Ensure you buy from authentic brands alone. Only purchase bags from reputable brands, like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, or Taschen für männer

Price

Because of the many fake leather bags out there, it is important to be able to tell the difference between real and fake leather bags. There are a few things you should check to make sure that you are buying real leather bags. First of all, check the price. Genuine leather bags cost a lot more than the fake ones, so if you are looking at a deal that is too good to be true, it probably is.

Construction and Smell

Another great way to check the quality of the leather is by touching the bag. High-quality leather has soft touch. It’s very important to check the material because most sellers try to sell poor quality leather as genuine leather.

If you have already bought a leather bag, but you’re not sure it’s genuine, you can take a look at the stitching. High-quality leather bags have solid stitching, while poor-quality ones have loose stitches. The most important thing is to learn how to distinguish genuine leather from poor-quality materials. Once you know the difference, you will be able to find a beautiful and high-quality leather bag.

Genuine leather is one of the most popular materials used to make bags and other accessories. Every year, millions of leather bags are sold, and the market is growing. Start with the smell. Poor quality leather doesn’t smell like genuine leather. Genuine leather has a specific smell that you can’t miss, and you will love it.

 

 

 

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beauty

Buying the Best Sunscreen? Here are 9 Points to Consider

Wearing sunscreen every day before stepping out of the house is important in the skincare routine. The best sunscreen SPF 50 protects your skin against harmful UV damage and keeps it checked. It also helps slow down signs of ageing and reverse issues like dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

The key is to opt for a safe, gentle, effective, and toxin-free sunscreen that can be used regularly without any concerns. So, through this blog, we will share nine important facts about the sunscreen no one told you about!

Most of us know about using sunscreen in the summer’s scorching heat. But it is also important to opt for a sunscreen with a higher grade of Sun Protection Filter (or SPF). SPF is key to the sunscreen’s functionality because it protects you against UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Many skincare experts also recommend wearing sunscreen regardless of your skin type and weather conditions.

Sunscreen has been around since the time of Pharaohs in ancient Egypt times. The Egyptians used rice bran extracts and jasmine to protect their skin against sun damage. With time, scientists worked, and the first-ever commercial sunscreen came out in 1936 and this completely revolutionized the skincare industry. Today, most skincare products such as serums, creams, and foundations are enriched with SPF for added protection.

What should you know about your next sunscreen?

Here are some important facts and details to help you select the best sunscreen for yourself.

Fact 1:

Broad-spectrum sunscreens are best

In 2011, FDA issued guidelines for sunscreen to be labelled broad-spectrum. Such a skincare product ensures protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

There are two types of radiation from the sun:

  • Ultraviolet A or UVA rays: Causes premature ageing of the skin
  • Ultraviolet B or UVB rays: Causes sunburns and may be dangerous for the skin

We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen right after using an ubtan face cream.

Fact 2:

Sunscreens are not waterproof or sweatproof anymore

SPF is now labelled as:

  • Water-Resistant: Works for as much as 40 minutes in water
  • Very Water-Resistant: Works for as much as 80 minutes in water

For swimmers: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing sunscreen every 2 hours or after you are done swimming and have come out of the pool.

Fact 3:

Use sunscreen with at least 30 SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which means how effective your sunscreen is against UV radiation. SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 imparts 98% blockage against UV damage. Experts recommend staying between SPF 30 and 50 for optimal protection. Use it

Fact 4:

Understand how much sunscreen to apply

Many people do not know how much sunscreen is enough. Experts recommend following the ‘Teaspoon and Shot Glass Rule’ to determine the best sunscreen that would work with your skin.

Note: This rule states that you should use one teaspoon of sunscreen for your face and neck. You should use an amount equal to a shot glass for the exposed areas of the body.

Fact 5:

Sunscreen is safe to use

There is a general myth about the sunscreen ingredients not being safe for the skin, but this is not true. All healthcare professionals recommend using sunscreen for optimal protection against harmful ultraviolet rays. The key is to opt for a sunscreen that is not chemically enriched and thus does not contain any harmful chemicals.

Fact 6:

Spray-on sunscreens may not always be effective

Though the idea keeps you away from the hassle of applying sunscreen, it may not be as effective. The AAD states that if you want to use spray-on sunscreens, you should apply enough amount and smear it thoroughly to cover all areas of the skin.

Fact 7:

Sunscreen comes with an expiration date

The AAD requires all the best sunscreens to retain their content for three years. Sunscreen comes with an expiration date on the label. So, if your sunscreen feels different in colour or consistency, it is a telltale sign that it has expired.

Fact 8:

Children less than six months should not be applied sunscreen

Infants are known to have more sensitive skin than adults. To protect an infant’s skin from sun damage, you can make them wear shades or protective clothes and a wide-brimmed hat before going out in the sun. Consulting your child’s paediatrician would also help.

Fact 9:

Sunscreen should be applied even on overcast days

Eighty per cent of the sun’s rays can pass through the clouds, even on overcast days. So, you should wear sunscreen even in cloudy and overcast weather conditions. Sunscreen is an important part of the skincare routine worn throughout the year, including winter. The sun’s UV rays are present in the atmosphere even in overcast weather conditions, so not using sunscreen can cause sun damage.

Choosing the best sunscreen for your skin

It is not always easy picking the best sunscreen that gives you protection against UVA and UVB rays. However, most non-comedogenic sunscreens these days come packed with nourishing ingredients to hydrate the skin.

Face creams also have SPF, but that does not mean you should skip sunscreen altogether. Always wear sunscreen if you are stepping out. Besides, we suggest starting with hypoallergenic sunscreen if you have sensitive skin.

Here is our favourite pick from the brand we trust the most for skincare:

Mamaearth Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen with SPF 50 PA+++

Mamaearth Ultra Light Sunscreen is a special formulation to protect your skin even in the harsh Indian summers. This best sunscreen is enriched with Carrot Seed Oil, Orange Oil, Turmeric, and Cananga Oil ingredients.

It protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays for as long as 6 hours. In addition, this super lightweight formula does not leave your skin dry right after the application. It also reduces tan and discolouration due to prolonged exposure to the sun. It is suitable for all skin types because it does not contain harmful chemicals or toxins.

 

Summing Up!


Wearing sunscreen is not only a cosmetic concern. This skincare product protects your skin against the risk of certain cancers by 50%. In addition, exposure to the sun can profoundly affect your skin’s health and potentially cause premature ageing. So, it is important to get the best sunscreen for oily skin concerned against the damage done by the ultraviolet rays. Remember, when in doubt, wear sunscreen!

 

 

 

 

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Bio Oil skincare oil review, benefit, uses
beauty

#OneSkincare with Bio Oil

Hello, everyone. Today’s review is all about a range of products that have worked wonders for many women out there. Bio-Oil is a cult-favourite of many women for several years and there is a solid reason behind it. Firstly, they do what they claim, they are not overly priced, the ingredients list is clean, and lastly, the result is satisfying.

Bio-Oil comes in the form of body oils that are suitable for all skin types and caters to almost all skin concerns. Bio-oil is a multi-specialist skincare oil that targets many skin issues such as blemishes, scars, ageing, stretch marks, dry and dehydrated skin, uneven skin tone etc.

My first encounter with Bio-Oil was a few weeks back when I tried three of their bestselling products- Bio-oil Skincare Oil (Natural), Bio-oil Skincare Oil, Bio-oil Dry Skin Gel. After using them for quite a while I can totally get why people keep raving about this brand and their products. I have been dealing with age spots and blemishes on my cheeks and around my mouth. I tried many products in the past few months that helped me get rid of those pesky marks partially but none removed them completely. Then came the time when I was introduced to Bio-oil skincare oil. I used it for more than two weeks and it had started to show visible results. The new marks faded out almost 95% and the older ones also improved a lot.

Both the original Bio-Oil Skincare Oil and the reformulated Bio-Oil Natural works well for my skin, especially during the winter months. Towards the end of winter, my skin feels excessively rough, dry, and flaky and so does my scalp. Bio-oil has a cure for both issues. It could be used both for the skin and for the scalp. It does a great job for dry and flaky scalp. It also works tremendously well for dry and dehydrated elbows and knees.

Let’s take a look at the ingredients list-

Bio-oil is formulated with various natural plant-based oils that help in retexturizing the skin, evening out the skin tone, and reducing the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and blemishes. Unlike other skincare oils, it doesn’t stay on the surface of the skin but it does penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin and work efficiently.

The ingredients list contains-

  • Vitamin A – helps improve the skin’s elasticity, texture and tone
  • Vitamin E – increases the moisture content of the epidermis, thereby making the skin softer, smoother and more supple
  • Calendula Oil – a natural antioxidant that has the ability to clarify and stimulate the growth of new skin cells
  • Lavender Oil – calming and soothing benefits
  • Rosemary Oil – helps to invigorate and has mild antiseptic capabilities and thus eases congestion, puffiness and swelling of the skin
  • Chamomile Oil – calms, soothes and is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin

Bio-Oil is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. It is not tested on animals.

As per their official website, the benefits of Bio-oil is as follows-

Key uses

Scars
Helps improve the appearance of both new and old scars.

Stretch marks
Helps reduce the possibility of stretch marks forming during pregnancy, teenage growth spurts and periods of rapid weight gain, and helps improve the appearance of existing stretch marks.

Uneven skin tone 
Helps improve the appearance of pigmentation marks and blemishes caused by hormonal fluctuations, skin-lighteners or excessive sun exposure.

Ageing skin 
Helps smooth and tone ageing and wrinkled skin on both the face and body.

Dehydrated skin
Helps supplement the skin’s natural oils, stripped away by factors such as extreme weather, water with high chemical content, frequent bathing and the drying effects of central heating and air conditioning.

Now, let’s discuss each of the products I got from Bio-oil.

  • Bio-Oil Skincare Oil –
    The Original Multi Specialist Skincare oil is a global favourite and improves the appearance of dark spots, acne scars, ageing, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, stretch marks, scars. Clinically Tested and dermatologically recommended. Quick absorption, Non-Comedogenic and Vegan. Enriched with Vitamin A, E assist in the regeneration of skin oil and essential oils like Chamomile, Lavender Oil are anti-inflammatory and promote healthy skin.
  • Bio-Oil Skincare Oil Natural –
    Bio-Oil Natural is a 100% natural skincare oil. Clinically tested with proven results, to reduce the appearance of scars, spots, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, ageing and stretch marks.
    Bio-Oil Natural is made of completely natural seed oils like Jojoba, Chia, Pomegranate, Inca Inchi, Vitamin A and E & essential oils like Chamomile, Calendula, Lavender, Rosemary, Calendula, & Patchouli.
  • Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel –
    The dry skin gel is the best way to solve dry skin problems as it creates a protective layer to stop moisture from escaping and hydrates the skin giving it an energized feel. Traditional dry skin products (creams, lotions and butter) contain on average around 20% oil, wax or butter for this purpose. With just 3% water, this highly potent formulation blends emollients such as shea butter and humectants like glycerin and urea, along with skin soothing ingredients such as vitamin B3 for an exceptional moisturizing result.

Bio-Oil vs Moisturizing Creams

Oxidization does affect the efficacy of the ingredients used in a certain skincare product. Creams contain water which allows oxygen to oxidize the ingredients and affect the potency of the vitamins inside. Oil, on the other hand, does not contain water thus it does not oxidize. Oils like Bio-oil absorbs into the skin keeping the potency of the ingredients intact.

Bio-Oil is-

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Free from toxins
  • Non-greasy
  • Completely vegan

It does treat dry skin and skin dehydration which alone is a source of most skin related problems.

Here is how I use Bio-Oil

I have been using Bio-oil religiously for the past few months. I have incorporated it into my no-fuss weekly pamper skincare routine. I first double cleanse my face using the Bio-oil Skincare oil and a mild foaming face wash, then apply some rose water as a toner and pat it onto my skin. I finish it off with the Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural). You may go ahead and apply another layer of moisturizer but Bio-oil alone works very well as a moisturizer for my skin. You just need to take a very small amount, about a few drops. That will be enough to cover your entire face.

I also have light stretch marks on my hips and thighs which I have been taking care of by massaging bio-oil on the marks daily.

Now, one of the  questions that I find in every Bio-oil post-

Does Bio-Oil Help Disappear Surgery Marks?

Bio-Oil helps to improve the appearance of new or old scars; whether from surgery, accidents, burns, insect bites, scratches or conditions such as acne or chickenpox. Although younger scars will have a greater chance of improvement, studies have shown that older scars also benefit from regular use of Bio-Oil.

It is recommended to apply Bio-Oil to your scar as soon as the skin is fully healed. This is known as the ‘maturation’ or ‘remodelling’ phase of scar formation. Remember that for the best results to be seen Bio-Oil should be applied twice daily for a minimum of three months. Please note that Bio-Oil should not be applied to broken skin.

Another of the questions is-

Will Bio-Oil help acne?

Acne is a complex condition that requires professional advice on how to correctly control and manage it. It would therefore be wise to seek medical advice on the matter. However, Bio-Oil can be applied to acne scarring once the skin has healed /active acne is under control to help improve the appearance of the scars.

Bio-Oil is a one-stop solution for all your skin related worries. That’s why it is termed #OneSkincare.

After being sceptical for a long time, I finally tried my hands on Bio-Oil. I have had a great experience using Bio-Oil for my skin and I am truly satisfied with the result. I would highly recommend this range of products to everyone.

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yoga meditation asana surya namaskar
lifestyle

Namaskar- A yoga practice to cleanse your mind and soul

Namaskar or the Surya Namaskar, this form of exercise was introduced in ancient times to salute the sun, which plays an integral part in supporting life on this planet. Since the sun is the source of energy, this yoga asana is a powerful way to awaken your body, mind and soul.

If you are too busy to exercise or practise yoga, simply perform this namaskar exercise that is equivalent to a workout session and yoga practice. The benefits of namaskar are many as it is believed to activate each part of the body, including the mind. 

The Surya namaskar comprises 12 poses, each holding a special significance and benefit to the body. 

  1. The prayer pose: This pose can be done in an upright position by holding your hands in a prayer form as you inhale and exhale deeply. This position relaxes the nervous system, helps maintain the body balance and aids in relieving stress and anxiety.
  2. The raised arms pose: This position requires lifting your hands while joining your palms and bending slightly backwards while keeping your feet close and your back straight. This pose stretches and tones the abdominal muscles, aids digestion, reduces back pain and lowers asthma.
  3. Standing forward bend pose: This position requires you to touch your heels with your fingers without bending your knees and spine. This pose helps cure insomnia, headache, anxiety and stress.
  4. The lunge pose: This position requires you to bend your knees slightly and rest your palms on the floor, in line with your feet. Your right knee should be on the right of your chest, while your left leg should be stretched out at the back. This pose increases lung capacity and relieves indigestion and constipation.
  5. Plank pose: This pose needs no introduction. All you need to do is position yourself in a plank pose while keeping your elbows and knees straight. This pose keeps your mind calm and improves posture.
  6. Eight limbed pose: Bring your knees on the floor, rest your chin on the floor, your hips raised slightly, your posterior in the air and your arms on the side of your chest. This pose increases flexibility and relieves stress.
  7. The cobra pose: Lie flat on the ground, and with the support of your arms, raise your body in the air, like a cobra, with your pelvic region touching the ground. This pose improves flexibility and mood.
  8. Downward facing dog: As you’re standing straight, try bending forward without bending your knees and back and touching the ground with your palms. This pose calms the nerves, relieves menopause symptoms and increases blood circulation.
  9. High lunge pose: This pose is similar to the lunge pose, with a better stretch and aids digestion and relieves constipation.
  10. Standing forward bend: Once again, you come back in the standing forward turn pose as you reach towards the final steps of this exercise.
  11. Raised arms pose: Get back into the extended arms pose again while practising deep breathing.
  12. Prayer pose: Conclude this namaskar by positioning yourself in the first pose, which is the prayer pose.

Now that you know the benefits of the namaskar, you can start doing it every morning to feel rejuvenated throughout the day.

 

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