Neutrogena | Fine Fairness Cleanser

Hi lovelies,

So, reverting back to Neutrogena, I picked Fine Fairness Cleanser recently. This cleanser is part of the Neutrogena's Fine Fairness Range created to assure women of fair and radiant skin that lasts. I've had enough of the tan I got recently while driving my car daily to and back from work. I've always had great experience with Neutrogena products in the past. These have always been my go-to products. I've recently reviewed Neutrogena's Deep Clean Gentle Scrub and had amazing results with this product. Hence, the motivation to invest into a few more quality skin care products.

What Neutrogena says..

"..Fine Fairness® works because of Neutrogena Healthy White Complex. This technology is composed of nature's activities - Essential Soy, stabilized Vitamin C, Vitamin B3 and Portaluca - and serves as the foundation of Fine Fairness®..."

Essential Soy is a patented soy extract that limits transfer of melanin to keratinocytes (outermost layer of skin) in order to achieve fair and clear skin.

Stabilized Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant that blocks free radicalls, and reduces Tyrosinase, an essential enzyme in melanin formation. This stable form of Vitamin C ensures a prolonged release for a long-lasting healthy glow. 

Vitamin B3 enhances skin renewal and turnover.

Portulaca soothes inflammation to reduce pigmentation that is often triggered by inflammation. 

Neutrogena Fine Fairness Cleanser comes in a squeeze-tube container. The cleanser has a soft, rich and creamy texture with mild fragrance. I squeeze a small amount on my palm and work it all over my face and neck. It feels soft and gentle on the skin and gently lifts dirt and excessive oil from the skin. I badly need this treatment these days since by skin is really acting up due to the hot and humid weather. After every wash I feel my skin has rejuvenated with no oil residue but without stripping skin of its natural moisture. The cleanser also lifts the skin dulling dead cells leaving my skin feeling radiant. Not only this, the ingredients explained about like Vitamin C and Essential Soy along with proven skin lighters help skin with that desired fair glow.

The Neutrogena Fine Fairness Range also includes Lotion, Toner, Brightening Moisture, Deep Whitening Mask and Serum. All these products, infused with Healthy White Complex work in 8 synergistic ways to give you radiant skin.

1. Protects your skin from UVB rays.

2. Shields you from UVA rays.

3. Restores healthy skin by helping block free radicals.

4. Prevents skin darkening by helping to normalize melanin production.

5. Blocks the appearance of melanin so skin stays clear.

6. Enhances surface skin renewal.

7. Helps calm and soothe skin to maintain an even tone.

8. Lightens skin by providing an immediate effect.

So there you are! So many more reasons to give Neutrogena's Fine Fairness Range a try. Let me know if you are already using any of the products.

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The Body Shop | Mini Haul

Hi lovelies,

Upon my recent stopover at The Body Shop I picked two things absolutely randomly. I tried to get out of my comfort zone and 'safe' shades to try out something new. This included a new lipstick shade I usually do not prefer and a cheek shade I want to try out as a 'bronzer' (yep!).

Color Crush Lipstick in   140 Make My Heart Gleam

All-In_One Cheek Color in   09 Truffle

                                           Color Crush Lipstick in   140 Make My Heart Gleam

Starting off with Color Crush Lipstick in the shade 140 Make My Heart Gleam, it comes in a nice plastic packaging. The cap of these Color Crush lipsticks reflect the color category of the shade inside, so it's either pink, orange or mauve. Ever since I started experimenting with orange shades in lipsticks I have found really beautiful shades that look as natural on my skin tone as some pink shades too. One of my recent favorites is from the same Color Crush lipstick range in the shade 105 Coral Cutie.

140 Make My Heart Gleam is a beautiful peachy shade with strong range undertones. It is loaded with tons of gold glitter and shimmery finish. It is incredibly pigmented so I do not intend to use it alone as a lipstick shade. When I bought it, the idea was to either blend it with another lipstick shade or to use a bit of it on top of the main lipstick for a glamours look, perfect for evenings. I think it was a good choice, the texture is soft, creamy and quite moisturizing. It has a hint of scent which is I find really pleasant. Wear time of lipsticks usually vary from person to person but I personally feel the shade starts to fade in 3 hours leaving behind the gold shimmer.

                                                      All-In_One Cheek Color in   09 Truffle

Since - to date I haven't been able to figure out how to contour your cheeks with a bronzer without ending up with tons of it all over your face - I still haven't given up. This time my approach is to go for a matte shade (any - eye shadow, blusher etc) in a light brown shade and use it with my blusher to create the look. For this I chose All-In-One Cheek Color in 09 Truffle. Since, in this case as well, I have used two blusher shades from the same range 05 Bubblegum and 04 Marshmellow. I've had great experience with both these shades therefore trying 09 Truffle in terms of consistency and matte was easy. 

09 Truffle is a light brown shade with neutral under tones and matte finish. Its supposed to be used as blusher but I think it would work great as a contour shade. I love the shade and the fact that its buildable without the risk of over-going it which works great for me! I also absolutely love how the shade stays its original color and gives that natural look rather than turning into orange-ish or dark brown. That for me (or anyone) is a makeup disaster! 

As seen on my Instagram Pretty.Gloss

I am experimenting with both the products and cant speak enough of the product quality. Do let me know if you have used any of these two products from The Body Shop or from the same range.

How do you wear your bronzer and glitter lipstick?

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Burberry Brit Rhythm for Her Floral | Fragrance

Hello Lovelies,

It is Burberry Brit Rhythm for Her Floral time of the year (summers!) for me. I received this one as a gift from a dear friend of mine who was visiting London. If your idea of elegance is understated and casual, then Burberry Brit Rhythm for Her Floral is the one for you. I haven't tried a lot of fragrances from Burberry. The previous one that I had tried was Burberry Body which, as I recall, was a really nice fragrance I bought on my way to London. If I compare Brit Rhythm with Burberry Body I would pick the later as I loved the youthful twist and sweetness of Burberry Body. But having said this, Burberry Brit Rhythm for Her Floral is no doubt a classy British fruity-floral fragrance with an edge.

Burberry introduced a fragrance pair inspired by the British rock scene, Brit Rhythm for Him in 2013, followed by the feminine edition Brit Rhythm for Her in 2014. In February this year new flankers of the fragrance came out - Brit Rhythm for Him Intense and Brit Rhythm for Her Floral. It was designed by Francis Kurkdjian who says, "I personally wanted to express the uncompromising energy of music with a twist of youthful attitude and sexiness. The scent is bright - fluid - vertical - young."

Burberry describes it as..

 "   A sensual, floral fragrance with an unexpected fruity twist. Fresh top notes of Orchid Fruit, Sicilian Lemon and Orange open up an exotic heart of Egyptian Jasmine, Lotus Blossom and dewy Lilac. Base notes of Amber Woods, Driftwood and Musk gives a sultry dry down.  "

The signature Burberry ridged glass bottle gives so much character to this fragrance. I love the classic tweed designed embossed onto the glass bottle which allows you to see the dusky pink fragrance inside. The original Burberry Brit Rhythm is apparently inspired by "the exhilaration and adrenaline of live music and electric energy of the crowd". The original fragrance was created by the remarkable perfumers Nathalie Cetto and Maisondieu of Givaudan on behalf of Burberry.

Brit Rhythm for Her Floral is soft, powdery, seductive, uplifting and a bit masculine I would say. I've only used it once or twice (since I already opened so many perfumes at the same time and want to safe a few for rainy days..) and received a lot of compliments. Everyone wants to know 'which fragrance is it?'. The fragrance was impressively long lasting but I cannot really confirm for how long since I am in a habit of spraying every few hours. It's sensual but not overpowering which I really admire.

As seen on my Instagram Pretty.Gloss

As seen on my Instagram Pretty.Gloss

 Burberry Brit Rhythm campaign stars British models Suki Waterhouse and George Barnett.

Which is your favorite Burberry fragrance?

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Neutrogena | Deep Clean Gentle Scrub

Hi Lovelies!

So here I am after a bit - been really busy with a few things this month. But I am finally back with a new post of a product that I recently purchased.

Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub is a skincare product I recently purchased. I am someone who always, always has a scrub around whether facial or body scrub (I even have The Body Shop's Long Handle Cactus Bath Brush for the purpose). Thanks to my difficult-to-manage combination skin, I am often left with either whiteheads or dry patches on my skin. Consequently, scrubbing my face as well as body religiously is very important to keep those pores from clogging and smooth out any dead skin. But having said this, too much of something is always bad and I often get carried away! Hence, most of the time I go for mild cleansing scrubs so that I do not unintentionally overdo my skin. Keeping all this in mind I picked Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub which is perfect for daily use.

A face scrub.. 

The main reason for having a skincare regime is to, obviously, look your best. While facewashes and skin moisturizers play a significant role in promoting a healthy, glowing skin; there's an unsung hero that is more than often neglected from skincare routines - a face scrub. A face scrub comes with multiple benefits ensuring that flawless complexion. Not only does a facial scrub help remove dirt and grime, it also keeps your pores un-clogged and gently buffs away dry and flaky skin. 

Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub comes in the form of a squeeze tube with a nice flip cap ensuring no accidental leak hence good to go along in your travel bag as well. I love the texture which is just the perfect creamy consistency neither too thick nor too light. Open the flip cap and you get to smell fresh oranges which is very refreshing especially in summers. I wet face and apply a little amount of scrub on the palms of my hand. I massage it gently all over my face (sometimes on my neck as well especially during a shower!) avoiding the eye area and rinse thoroughly.

What Neutrogena says..

" .. a daily scrub with Beta Hydroxy proven to clean deep down into your pores, yet is gentle enough to use everyday. Beta Hydroxy formula penetrates deep into pores to remove blackheads-causing dirt and oil. Gentle mircobeads exfoliate dull, dead skin surface. Its rich, foaming creamy lather rinses clean. Skin is instantly softer, smoother, healthier looking and refreshed.  "

Overall, its one of the better facial scrubs I have used in the past. I did try a lot of products from Neutrogena in the past and have found these of really good quality. I certainly recommend Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub as part of your daily skincare regime. Do visit Neutrogena online to check out their entire range of skincare.

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Lavender Reed Diffuser | Crabtree & Evelyn

Hi lovelies,

I have always been fond of fragrances, as you might have noticed by now. But this love for sweet smelling scents is not limited to just perfumes. I LOVE scented candles and reed diffuser immensely! Anything that makes my vicinity and surrounding smelling fresh and relaxing is my favorite. I cannot recall a time when I was out of reed diffusers, scented candles, air freshners etc. Running out of the previous reed diffuser, I got hold of one from my most favorite brand for such items - Crabtree & Evelyn. In the past I have used their home fragrance spray and scented candle (review) from the Iris Collection which were amazing. Every time someone entered my room they noticed how fresh and amazing it smelled. Off course, these fragrances are designed to create that unique ambiance around your home. This time around I picked Lavender (one of my favorite flowers) Reed Diffuser from Crabtree & Evelyn.

Let's talk a bit about the Lavender. Lavender is a beautiful flower. Since ancient times, Lavender has been used as a natural remedy in herbal and aromatherapy. People used to fill pillows with Lavender to promote sound sleep at night - thanks to the beautiful aroma. I have always been mesmerized by the beautiful shades of Lavender's small violet color flower. You must have come across those beautiful Lavender fields wallpapers - aren't these breathtaking! The essential oil of Lavender is so widely used in the production of perfumes, fragrances and skincare products. Depending on the type, Lavender essential oil can have a sweet or sharp aroma. For example, French Lavender has sweet aroma while Dutch Lavender has a stronger aromatic and sharp odor. As I write this post I am imagining an endless field of Lavender blooms on a mountainous land of the Mediterranean....

The story of Lavender.. 

"   Let the scent of England's favorite floral transport you to the purple fields and sun-dappled meadows of summers. Lavender, long renowned for its calming effects, is the perfect thing to life your senses. Notes of sweet violet, sensual jasmine, tonka bean and musk delight and charm, whilst a whisper of lemon adds zest and energy. In short, soothing days of summer, distilled.   "

Crabtree & Evelyn Lavender Reed Diffuser is a great choice for those who like a continuous stream of uplifting Lavender fragrance like myself, without the fuss of lighting wicks or pressing buttons. There are so many new gadgets out there in the market these days with fancy decor and advanced techniques. However for someone like me, placing the reed sticks in oil is a soothing experience which is unmatched. With some good spa music in the background, I can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the aroma. Lavender Reed Diffuser comes in a nice, very presentable packaging and makes a perfect gift as well. The box clearly mentions the collection name with light, almost watercolor-like illustration of the scent, Lavender in this case. The best part is the glass container. Its simple yet so classy! The container is secured tightly with a nob and has Crabtree & Evelyn written around the neck.

Without doubt Crabtree & Evelyn Lavender Reed Diffuser is an elegant way to scent your home. It definitely adds a dash of charm in your living space weather its your bedroom or guestroom. The packaging includes 10 wooden wicking reeds that can be rotated every now and then for a fresh hit of the scent. One bottle stays around 90 days but this can vary depending on the environment around you. I have noticed this these stay around for longer at my home than at office. Highly recommended, this is your perfect summer scent to lift the ambiance around you.

Also try other items from the range like the Lavender Bath & Shower Gel to help you unwind or the Lavender Poured Candle to fill your room with fragrance and soft light.

Let me know whatever you choose. 

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The 'Perfect' Red | Maybelline ColorSensational Lipstick in Cherry Candy

Hello lovelies!

I am a big time pink lipstick girl. While the entire world might be crazy about those sexy red lips I feel a bit nervous around red reason being that I never felt red looked better or even equally pretty on me than shades of pink. Maybe I never found the perfect red shade of lipstick until now! Behold - Maybelline ColorSensational Lipstick in Cherry Candy. The perfect red for me!

Limited Edition translucent lip color in fruity flavors. Fresh color meets smooth shine in a sensational way! 

While casually swatching shades of lipsticks from different brands I came across Maybelline ColorSensational Lipstick in Cherry Candy after trying most all shades of lipsticks in the rack! While most of the shades were amazing, Cherry Candy was just beautiful! This is the kind of red I just could not resist trying so I decided to take off my lipstick and try it out there and then (something that I do not really bother about when buying lipsticks. But hey, it was a red lipstick after all!). Love at first sight! The shade was perfect. It complimented my skin tone a lot and did not look too loud, something that I always fear wearing bold lip colors.

Photos with flash.

The packaging is really girly and attractive. The lipstick bullet is set in a silver base which is covered by a translucent pink lid. The sticker at the bottom reveals the lipstick name, number and shade as well. Though I always prefer matte lipsticks for they are long- lasting, Maybelline ColorSensational Lipstick in Cherry Candy is basically a glossy lipstick. This makes it super easy to apply and also keeps the lips moisturized. I usually never apply any lipstick directly from the bullet. I usually either use my ring finger or a lipstick brush for better application. As I apply Cherry Candy I can see the sheer formula of the lipstick but the pigmentation is so rich that it quickly builds up to your heart's desire. Since I have naturally dry lips, this glossy lipstick does wonders and keeps them hydrated.

Tip: Before applying red or any other bold lip shade make sure you exfoliate your lips gently so that the lipstick looks smooth and neat. Try using your toothbrush gently over your lips while washing your face and pat dry with a towel. This will get rid of any dead skin on your dry, chapped lips.

IPhone6 photo without flash.

Daylight photo (via my Instagram pretty.gloss) with light application. 

My verdict: there is probably no shade that defines a woman's sensuality better than red. If you do not have a red lipstick, I strongly suggest you get one for yourself. For me, Maybelline's Cherry Candy has proven to be that perfect red. If you are a lip-gloss girl you would love this a million times more than your lipgloss as this range of lipsticks will give you high shine without the stickiness of a lipgloss. Moreover, it definitely has more staying power and would not stain your lips like other darker shades of lipsticks do. Do give it a try and look for your perfect shade. I would love to hear which one you picked. 

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Elie Saab Le Parfum | Resort Collection 2015

Hi Lovelies,

Summers is here. While I'm trying my best to embrace summers with summer prints, sunglasses and fruit punch, one thing that is meant to change with the season is my perfume. Chanel Coco Mademoiselle remains my all-time, all-season favorite fragrance; next in line is a new spring fragrance to my collection  - Elie Saab Le Parfum from the Elie Saab Resort Collection 2015.

Elie Saab is a fashion designer renowned for his exquisite fashion gowns. His creations are drop dead gorgeous and I absolutely love the choice of colors and shades he uses for his gowns. Elie Saab launched his first fragrance simply called Le Parfum in 2011. However, for 2015 the designer launched its first limited edition - Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection. Created by Francis Kurkdjian, the perfume came out at the end of February 2015. It is inspired by the summer couture collection and reflection of sun in the water.

"The fragrance is released in waves like a warm gentle breeze caressing the face of a woman who stands on the deck of her yacht wearing a stunning long dress in a shade of blue that is reminiscent of the sea. It is a fleeting but intense moment filled with noting but harmony" - Francis Kurkdjian, the perfumer.

The packaging gives a true insight to this fragrance. The blue shade of this new bottle perfectly matches the Resort Collection 2015. With the infinite range of captivating shades of blue, this beautifully faceted crystal bottle mirrors the changing reflections on the surface of water taking you the journey across Amalfi Coast - a chic and glamorous escape to the Mediterranean!

To me Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection is a beachy fragrance which is fresh, light and summery. What I love most about this fragrance is the beautiful warmth of Mediterranean, the tropical feel which spreads with the first spray and makes you feel as if you are strolling on a tropical island on a humid day. I think when I visit a beach this summers I will definitely take this fragrance along to experience the harmony of everything around with this scent.

Anyone knows which flowers are those in the background? I randomly picked these from the florist.

Notes

Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection is a springtime reinterpretation of Elie Saab orange flower signature enhanced with a sweet and gourmand fig. Top notes of a sweet fig and a mandarin zest adds a delicious and fresh sensation to this fragrance. One spray and you know exactly what you are dealing with! This is also my favorite note. In the heart note, the white and luminous bouquet of the original fragrance signature is enriched by a solar frangipani flower and white jasmine. At heart Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection is a fresh, orange blossom fragrance. The base note of cedar and amber gives a beautiful elegance and sensuality to the fragrance. A fruity-floral and modern fragrance, this scent is your best companion to summer vacation trip this year. Luminous and refreshing, the fragrance will not overpower at any point while you take a stroll along a white sandy beach with the bluest of ocean right in front of you!

While I have considered many fragrances to be perfect for summers in the past, I am almost certain that Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection is a glamorous designer fragrance choice and will definitely recommend it to you. The perfume truly holds the essence of Elie Saab and is as sophisticated and chic as his collections. It has great staying power and fades elegantly to its base note.

 Image: Elie Saab 

Here are some of my favorite designs from the collection! 

Image: Elie Saab

Image: Elie Saab

Image: Elie Saab

Image: Elie Saab

Image: Elie Saab

Have you tried Elie Saab Le Parfum Resort Collection yet? 

SHOP ONLINE!

50 ml  £ 47

Boots // Selfridges // Nordstorm // House of Fraser // John Lewis // Ebay

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