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The Pretty City Girl | Indian Travel & Lifestyle Blog


If you've been following my Instagram account for a long time, you must have noticed a transition between my editing style. From using Instagram built-in filters to editing photos on my Windows PC and from overly dramatic HDR photos to finally adding a magical touch to each photo, you can notice the pattern. As of now, a photo goes through many edits before I upload it on Instagram because I consider each photo special and concentrate a lot on post-production. During the actual photoshoot, even if the photo doesn't turn out to be very good, I am still satisfied most of the times because I believe I can improvise it during post-production.

The aspect I concentrate the most while editing is the colour. I love my photographs to be colourful and vibrant. They should emit a good vibe, I feel. The photo should look dramatic yet not have heavy HDR filters or unnecessary saturation. Also, I don't like highlights in my photos and I prefer increasing the shadows. 

In this post, I shall share my step-by-step guide of editing Instagram photos along with the apps I use. I hope you find this post useful and if you do, please comment below so that I write more such posts in future. I have many other blogging tips and Instagram tricks written on the blog. You can check them out later! 



HOW I EDIT MY INSTAGRAM PHOTOS


Most of the times, it does not matter how an image is clicked. I ask my photographers to just bring out the angle I need and then irrespective of the lighting, the highlights, the colours, the shadows, etc., I still give the image a green signal.

The first image in the above collage is completely raw and is shot on my iPhone 8 Plus phone without the HDR filter. Since the image was shot against the light, I am in complete darkness. One drawback of iPhone images are the extra highlights, which you can see on the trees and houses in the background. To tackle this problem and to bring out some colours, I follow these steps.


SNAPSEED APP

Step 1: Increasing the vividity of the colours
I generally do all sorts of colour and light grading using Snapseed mobile app. After loading the image on the app, the first thing I do is increase the 'Ambience' under 'Tools' - 'Tune Image'. I usually increase it to its max or if the image naturally has a lot of colours, I stop before that. It all depends on how much colour you want. 

Step 2: Decreasing the highlights and increasing the shadows
I prefer the blacks to be really black so I usually reduce the 'Highlights'. To make it more dramatic, I take the 'Shadows' to subzero (again depending whether I want -40 or something else). Both the highlights and shadows can be found under 'Tools' - 'Tune Image'.


Step 3: Cropping the image
About 9/10 times, the aspect ratio I use while cropping is 4:3 or 3:4. Sometimes, if the object is spread out or if the background is vast and I want to keep it as is, I skip cropping and let Instagram handle its dimensions then while uploading.

Step 4: Correcting the lights - using selective editing
The thing I love most of Snapseed is its ability to correct the image selectively. Under 'Tools', select the 'Brush' option and according to the image, use the brushes. These brushes let you edit freely. For example, if your white t-shirt appears off white, use the 'Dodge & Burn' brush and rub it across the t-shirt to make it white. If the trees in the background are faded or overly highlighted, use the 'Exposure', take it to subzero, and rub it across the trees. If the skies are light blue and you want to make them more vivid, take the 'Saturation' brush and rub it across the sky. Similarly, you can use it for the flowers, the trees, or any colourful object you want to make vivid. 

In the above collage, notice the trees and the houses in the background. Compare the first two images and you'll notice the difference. 


BEAUTYPLUS APP

Next, I save the image and open it in the BeautyPlus mobile app. I use this app for adding a depth of field and some filters to the image. 

Step 5: Making the background blurry to add DSLR effect
After opening the image on BeautyPlus app, the first thing I do is add the 'Bokeh' effect under the 'Edit' option. I choose the 'Manual' option as I can freely defocus whatever I want in the image. If you don't own a DSLR or if your mobile phone does not have the portrait mode option, then this feature is truly a blessing. I use this feature to make all my photos look professional. 


In the above collage, take a look at the third image. See how the background has turned blurry. The trick here is to not make the background fully blurry but just a little to make it look real. 

Step 6: Adding filters
Next, under 'Filter' option, I play with the filters. In the above collage, I have used the filter 'Sunsoak'. A few other filters I love are 'Moonlight', 'Embolden', Ivory'. Sometimes I even use a combination of two filters. 




MIX APP

Step 7: Adding sun flares (optional)
And then, if I want to further make the image beautiful, I use the MIX mobile app to add sun flares. I use this option only when the background is too bland. I add a sun flare to bring some colours to the frame. 


Below are a few more before and after editing photos:



Notice how in the above collage, the first image appears dull. It was shot on an old model of GoPro, hence the bad image quality. My main goal here was to bring the colours to life. Firstly, using the 'Brush' tool of Snapseed app, I reduced the exposure of the mountains (especially those in the left). Later, I increased the 'Ambience' as always and cropped the trees on the left. I wanted both the left and the right mountains so I did not crop as much. Further using 'Saturation' brush, I added more colour to my pink backpack as it is a nice contrast to the green background. I even increased the saturation of the blue sky and the red house you see in the middle. Further, I reduced the sharpness of the whole image using the 'Tools' - 'Details' - 'Structure' option. I simply reduced the structure to subzero. 

Later, though it was not really needed, I prepped the picture more using the BeautyPlus app. I simply added the 'Bokeh' effect to make the background a little blurry. Also, I added one of its filters. 




For editing this image, the main focus was to reduce the sharpness and bring down the exposure. Also, I really liked how certain colours apart from the green are contrasting so I thought of bringing them forth. 

For this, firstly, I increased the 'Ambience', decreased the 'Highlights' and took 'Shadows' to subzero in the Snapseed mobile app. Later, using the 'Brush' tool, I reduced the exposure of the overexposed parts such as the trees above the white house. Then using the same tool and selecting 'Dodge & Burn' brush, I whitened the white house further. I brushed over to increase the saturation of my red t-shirt, my pink bag, my blue shoes, the red flowers, and the colourful part of the white house. Also, notice towards the left-hand side, near the green net, there's a girl in red? Using the 'Healing' tool found under 'Tools', I erased her out. Then, I cropped the image keeping the 4:3 ratio. And lastly, I reduced the sharpness by using the 'Tools' - 'Details' - 'Structure' option. 

Next, I opened the image in BeautyPlus app and though there was no real need, I had to give a slight filter plus soften a few parts of the image. So I added the 'Embolden' filter. Next, by using the 'Bokeh' tool, I blurred a few random parts of the photo to add a magical effect. 




This final image was shot in somebody's phone camera hence the dull image. For this image, I had to bring out the greens and most importantly, bring out the waterfall. For this, I opened the image in Snapseed and firstly, increased the 'Ambience' as always. Additionally, I decreased the 'Highlights' and took the 'Shadows' to subzero. Using the 'Brush' tool, I reduced the exposure of the trees above the waterfall. Along with that, I added more darkness under the cliff towards the right-hand side of the image along with other black parts such as my pants and the rock I'm leaning on. Using the same 'Exposure' brush tool, I increased the whiteness of the waterfall. I always add more exposure to the waterfall to make it pop out the frame. Along with that, I even brushed it over my white t-shirt to make it more white. And then, I cropped the image keeping the 4:3 ratio. 

Then after saving, I opened the image in BeautyPlus app and added a filter along with some natural 'Bokeh' effect. 



This photo was already good to upload, however, I wanted to add a few touches here and there. Though the first and the last image look somewhat similar, if you look closely, there are a few changes. Firstly, I cropped the original landscape image to make it a portrait in Snapseed app. Later, by using the 'Brush' tool, I decreased the exposure of the mountains in the background. Later, using the same 'Saturation' brush tool, I increased the vividness of my scarf and the lake in the background. 

Next, I opened the image in BeautyPlus app and blurred the background using 'Bokeh' tool. Later, I added the 'Sunsoak' filter. 




Again, this photo was beautiful before, however, it required some touch-ups. Using the Snapseed app, I added colours on the boat with the help of the 'Saturation' brush tool. I even decreased 'Exposure' there. 

Later, I added Sunsoak filter in the BeautyPlus app. Also, can you notice a blur near the second boat in the background? That is done using the 'Bokeh' effect. 


This photo was hopeless yet I wanted to make it uploadable only because of its concept. I was impressed with this balcony view and how I could get a photo from another balcony. I wanted such shot since a long time but the photo turned out highly exposed and extremely bright. 

To make things good, I had to decrease the overexposure by using the 'Highlights' and the 'Shadows' tool in Snapseed app. I cropped the image keeping the 4:3 ratio as I did not want the floor to be visible in the photo. Next, using the 'Exposure' brush tool, I added darkness to the already dark parts. I even used it on the bricked wall behind me. I did not like the sharpness of the leaves, so I reduced it using the 'Tools' - 'Details' - 'Structure' option. 

Later, I added the 'Embolden' filter mildly in the BeautyPlus app along with a mild 'Bokeh' effect (check out the sharpness on the leaves towards the right in the second and the third image).




I purposely wanted to share this before and after. This one's from the photoshoot for a lunchbox. The major issue here was the colour of the mango pulp (aamras) and the blemishes on my face. I shot this one without any makeup. Heck! I had not even washed my face and had just brushed my hair for it. When it comes to photoshoot, I usually do it with bare face. However, this closeup shot enhanced the blemishes and I regretted not putting any makeup. 

Anyway, I worked on post production to make it proper. As always, I opened the image in Snapseed app and reduced the exposure of the mango pulp by using the 'Exposure' brush tool. I added a slight 'Saturation' to it again by using the 'Brush' tool. Next, I reduced the exposure of my t-shirt. 

Next, I opened BeautyPlus app and erased the acne marks. I added eyebrows, lipstick, and blush in mild quantity. Finally, I added the 'Embolden' filter. 


To check out all my photos, go through my Instagram feed and you'll get an idea. 
May 31, 2019 3 comments


I simply love going through airport style! So whether it is someone from Bollywood such as Deepika Padukone or a model like Miranda Kerr, I just can't get enough of these pictures. Probably travel outfits are one of my favourites to watch because of how comfortable they are. I keep on scrolling through effortless travel style on Pinterest or Google and can't keep myself calm after seeing those. I relate with travel outfits since I'm travelling most of the time, and if you ask me what is my go-to look, this definitely should be it.


In this post, I am going to encourage you to buy tops for women (because I believe, nothing can be as snug as a t-shirt when you're travelling on a flight), shop comfy sneakers, layer your outfit so that you stay warm yet look chic, and a few easy travel outfit ideas.


I agree that some celebs love embracing the bling even when they're on the go but that's because they have cameras waiting outside to have them clicked as soon they exit the airport. And though that's not the case with us, we all love dressing up, especially on flights where we flaunt our boarding pass and take a cute mirror selfie. Also, don't we love posting our airport style with a cup of Costa? We've all been there.



Irrespective of whether this is your first time boarding a flight or the first time when you're looking for some airport outfit inspiration, you're at the right place...


AIRPORT OUTFIT IDEAS FOR WOMEN

When we talk about airport style, it includes all the basics such as sneakers or a pair of slip-ons or maybe the prettiest tops for women, or even a layer to keep you warm. To share a gist, here's a list of what you need in general to look like your favourite blogger or your favourite actress while at the airport:

  • A tote or a backpack
  • A pair of sneakers or lazy-girl slip-ons
  • Leggings...whichever colour matches your outfit
  • Super comfortable t-shirt (Check out tops for women to get the latest trend)
  • A top layer...a jacket, a sweatshirt, a cardigan...you name it!
  • A scarf/shawl
Once you have the basics right, the next step is simply to go wardrobe-hunting. Pick out the best of the clothing that you have sitting in your closet or well, a little shopping doesn't hurt, does it? The rule, however, while picking your airport outfit is simple: Keep it stylish and comfortable.



PS All the products and their images are taken from the internet. I do not claim copyright to any. 
PPS These outfits are for reference purpose only.


Outfit 1 – Casual Chic
This outfit might take a little longer to compile but once it's together, you're going to rock that airport look. All you need to do is hunt cute tops for women, a pastel cardi (probably woollen), a matching tote, and some stylish sliders!


Read: Back to School Outfit Ideas

Outfit 2 – I Woke Up Like This
Joggers are the latest trend sported by celebs and the like. I've never seen people look so glam in joggers until this was seen on celebrities. For a laid back airport look, simply wear a pair of joggers, a hoodie, and glam up a little by adding some metal accessories and a pair of slip-on sliders.


Outfit 3 – Comfort First
Honestly, most of us just want to feel relaxed and we weigh comfort over style any day. If that's you, I guess, you probably know what you will be wearing. A pair of extremely soft leggings, some nice sneakers, and a back to school carry-on, yep, that's right.


Related: What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag | Carry-on Essentials




Outfit 4 – Rockstar
Next outfit is for the lovers of tops for women and rock n roll. Just wear any white tee, throw on some coloured leggings and top it up with a leather jacket. This airport outfit instantly makes you look twice fashionable than anyone around you!


Outfit 5 – The 'It' Girl
You can absolutely look relaxed yet put together if you know the right colours. Even if your clothes are basic, you can totally style it up by adding the likes of tans and golds. Finally, round it up with a vivid colour such as mustard or deep orange.


Which outfit did you like the most?
May 19, 2019 No comments


For most of us, our home is nothing less than bliss. This is where we let go of the masks we forcibly wear and simply be us...in our comfortable clothes and those warm walls that define solitude and happiness. However, when you have stayed in the same four walls, with the same, ageing decor, you feel like wanting to renovate or adding interior decor elements such as a wall painting, a photo frame, a vase with pretty flowers that would bring in some change to your space. 

If you're shifting to a new place – say you're getting married or moving out from your parent's house or shifting to some other city and are looking for affordable ways to revamp your new house, then you're at the right place. 
Or, if you're simply renovating and want to convert your space into something refreshing and lively, then continue reading. 

Here's a list of interior decor items to upgrade your space.

WALL PAINTINGS

Wall paintings or frames add an artistic look to your space. Depending on the theme of your room, you can select a painting of your choice. Always keep an eye on the new arrivals in painting because this is something that lasts in your room for decades together. A painting either brings out the vividness or fill up a wall, both of these being extremely aesthetic while decorating your house. With International Day of Families on 15th May, you can also have a canvas painting of your family picture. Read this article on how to look stylish for the picture-perfect family photo this International Day of Families. 


INDOOR PLANTS

Any interior is incomplete without indoor plants, I believe. The more the plants in your space, the better you feel. You’re most likely to stay indoors and connect with your house if you have plants. Imagine waking up early, brewing a cup of coffee, and relaxing by an indoor garden of your own.
Most indoor plants require less water since they're away from direct sunlight. However, while purchasing, you can ask the gardener about the one that requires the least amount of water. Many indoor plants such as bamboo, cactus, bonsai require less water. 

Read: Importance of Plants in Home



CUSHIONS

If you don't have pretty, vibrant cushions in your room then you're missing out on the true essence of designing your interiors. Cushions don't add just a fun element to the room but also can be used to rest your backs or act as neck pillows. 

TPCG Tip: Go for colours/prints that are contrasting to the theme of the room or the colour of your sofa/chair. The main purpose of the cushions is to bring forth the design so make sure the cushions scream out of the frame. Additionally, don't settle for one type of cushion covers; try a mix of two to three designs. 

FLOWER VASES

Flower vases add a delicate touch to any space, so whether it is your living room or your dining room. You can opt for fresh flowers that last for a long time or go for plastic flowers that appear real. On the other hand, there are a number of vases to choose from. If you're not much of a floral person, then you can settle for vases sans flowers instead.



INDOOR LIGHTING

Whether it is a floor lamp, a table lamp or artistic ceiling lights, one must have mellow lighting in the room to ease out after a tiring day. Lights help in setting a mood. They can turn the ambience to romantic, festive or calming, depending on what you're feeling that day. Apart from the common designs, go for a novel idea to make your interior stand out. 


BOOKS

As Marcus Cicero quotes, “A room without books is like a body without a soul.” I so agree with this statement. All the rooms I have ever designed have had dedicated bookshelves to store books. There are so many designs to choose from. Just open Pinterest and hunt for the perfect bookshelf design. And who says a bookshelf should contain books only? You can add in little plants, showpieces, curios, and other interesting objects in the shelf. 

And don't worry if you own only a few books. You can simply place the most artistic ones on top of each other on your coffee table along with a candle or a tiny flower vase and it shall look really beautiful!

CURIOS, SHOWPIECES

Lastly, just go beyond the ordinary. Collect all the decor items you love and place them wherever you can such as on the bookshelves, on top of a table, at a window or in a showcase. The curios/showpieces could be souvenirs from the places you visited, unique wall clocks, porcelain items, devotional figurines, etc.


With these interior desgin items you can decorate and give your home a new look. 
May 18, 2019 No comments

What's that one vegetable that reminds you of an extremely delicious dish? When your mom brings that vegetable home and it instantly reminds you of that particular dish. And even if your mom plans to make some other recipe out of it, you still insist her to make that dish! Well, pudina/mint is that vegetable that reminds me of the Pudina Cheese Naan and though it's a long process to make it, I still insist my mom on making them. Pudina Cheese Naan is one of the yummiest flatbreads I have ever eaten and I honestly can't get enough of it. 

I agree that any sort of naan requires some time to make and it is not as easy as making wheat rotis, however, the efforts are worth when you take a bite of the Pudina Cheese Naan and the cheese with a refreshing mint taste melts in your mouth. I can't praise this recipe enough. 



My mom had watched this recipe on a Marathi cooking show and I'm glad she didn't just watch but actually made a recipe. My brother and I are always happy when she says she's making Pudina Cheese Naan. You can check out all recipes I have ever shared on the blog, so whether it is desserts, main course, or appetizers. 

PUDINA CHEESE NAAN RECIPE

Preparation time: 2 hours + 15 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes for 1 naan 
Veg/Non-Veg: Veg


INGREDIENTS FOR MAKING PUDINA CHEESE NAAN

FOR DOUGH
1 cup curd
500 gm all purpose flour (maida)
Salt for taste
Oil
Water

FOR STUFFING
3 cups mint leaves, roughly chopped
1.5 cups coriander leaves, roughly chopped
1 green chilli, roughly chopped
1 onion, roughly chopped
4 cheese cubes, grated
Salt for taste



HOW TO MAKE PUDINA CHEESE NAAN

1. Make a dough using maida, curd as per your wish, salt, water, and oil. The dough should not retain much water yet should be easy to flatten. Keep the dough aside for a minimum of 2 hours.



2. For preparing the stuffing, roughly chop mint leaves, coriander leaves, 1 onion, and 1 green chilli. You can increase or decrease the quantity of the ingredients as per your liking.
3. Take a grinder, and make a paste out of mint leaves, coriander leaves, salt, onion, and green chilli. 
4. Grate cheese. Again, the quantity of cheese depends on how cheesy you want your naans. 

5. Now for making naan, flatten a ball of dough and make a round, roti like shape. Keep it aside. (You can make any shape of your choice however, since you require two sheets of dough to make one naan, make sure both the shapes are equal.)
6. Take another ball of dough and flatten it to make another round sheet of equal size.



7. Spread the mint-coriander paste on the sheet, leaving about 0.5 to 1 cm of the sides. 
8. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the paste. 
9. Carefully place another sheet of dough on it. Lightly press the sides to seal both the sheets together. 
10. On a pan, put some butter. Roast the naan on both the sides and serve hot with tomato ketchup. 

TIP: If the mint-coriander paste finishes before the dough then you can add cheese, oregano, and chilli flakes as stuffing instead. The naan tastes heavenly!
May 15, 2019 No comments

I am not naturally blessed with good hair. I have a smooth texture, which adds to the beauty of it, however, my hair is not dense enough. I was born with wavy hair but now when you look at them, they’re straight! From wavy, they turned into straight, and nobody knows how! It’s been more than one and a half years since I did cysteine treatment and yet till today, they remain straight! God. Knows. How. 

I always wanted straight hair since I was in school. Then in junior college, I finally went to a salon to straighten them and since then, there was no looking back. I did get glimpses of my old wavy hair between two hair straightening treatments but it’s been more than three years since I straightened/smoothened them and they’re doing surprisingly great. 

So, what are the hair products I use? What is my current hair care routine that has helped me transform my hair from wavy to straight?



I have been trying out a new hair care routine for the last three weeks. I’ve used a particular product on my hair thrice and loved the way my hair feel and appear now. They're smooth, silky, straight, and manageable. (Psst! My hair turned straight since a long time now and it has got nothing to do with the new hair care routine I've shared below. I shall write another post talking about my journey from wavy to straight hair and all the products/things I did that helped me transform my hair.)

This routine does not guarantee straight hair but definitely, you can achieve smooth, nourished bouncy hair. Read on further to know the step-by-step hair care routine along with the hair products I use to achieve the result.


HAIR CARE ROUTINE FOR SMOOTH, NOURISHED, BOUNCY HAIR

PRE-WASH OILING

Take 1 tbsp coconut oil on the palm. Slit open a Biolo capsule and empty the oil on the palm. Mix the two oils with your finger and apply the mix on the scalp. Massage. Keep the oil on your hair overnight. 

WASHING HAIR

Shampooing: Next morning, shampoo your hair like usual. It might so happen that the oil does not come off and people complain about that. Even I was a victim of it. However, I have a trick that ensures the oil does come off. What you have to do is, take the shampoo on palm and directly apply it to your scalp/hair. Massage the shampoo religiously as though you are cleaning something. Add a little water to the scalp and continue cleansing. Apply more shampoo if required. Once you feel that the oil is off (and most likely it will be since the oil is not on your strands but only on the scalp), stop the shampooing. 



Conditioning: Next comes the conditioner. I have observed that the more the conditioner I use, the softer the hair becomes. This does not mean you should apply more than what is required. But if you've been using less conditioner, then I must tell, use a proper amount of it to get the best results. Keep the conditioner on for a few minutes while you continue showering. Rinse off the conditioner using cold water for maximum moisturisation. 

POST-WASH NOURISHMENT

Lastly, after towel-drying your hair, take a pea amount of hair serum on your palms and spread it across the strands. Ensure to keep the crown area/scalp out of serum since that part naturally receives oil and you don't need extra conditioning there. Once you have applied the serum, take a wide-toothed comb and brush throughout the strands. In case you need to tie hair for some reason, just lightly make a bun near your neck and put on a hair clip. Avoid using hair rubber. When you use a hair clip, you get nice soft waves, making your hair look really beautiful!


HAIR PRODUCTS FOR SMOOTH, NOURISHED, BOUNCY HAIR

Parachute 100% Pure Coconut Oil
Instead of coconut oil, you can use any oil of your choice. I personally prefer coconut oil over almond or any other. However, people do suggest using coconut oil with these capsules. The coconut oil by Parachute is 100% pure and I believe the oil extracted from coconuts truly suit Indian hair type.

Kingbang Biolo Hair Soften Essence Capsules
There are many companies selling these hair soften essence capsules, however, I just chanced upon the one sold by Kingbang. The capsules are made in China so you might pause a little before buying. This product is a recent addition to my hair care routine. I have tried it thrice and got beautiful results so far. (If at all in future I don't find the product worthy, I shall edit this part and update you too.) There are usually 60 capsules in one bottle and it is advisable to complete the entire course for best results. The capsules contain vitamin E and aloe vera extracts. Please consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any illness. 



Defabulous 'Reviver' Hair Repair Shampoo + Conditioner
I've been using this shampoo and conditioner duo by Defabulous since August of 2017. Of late, I did think of changing my shampoo, however, I never gave up my hopes on this one. The duo was recommended by my hair stylist when I'd undergone cysteine treatment in August 2017. The best part about it is the non-sulfate formula. The product does not lather and your hair becomes straighter. Though it means the volume of your hair looks reduced, the overall look is really flattery. You can use this Defabulous 'Reviver' Hair Repair duo or go for your regular shampoo. I recommend a non-sulfate formula though!

Streax Vita Riche Gloss Hair Serum (blue coloured bottle)
Honestly, I bought this only because it was for Rs 180. All other hair serums were expensive and I did not want to invest in a hair serum just yet. I believe all the hair serums are more or less similar so I thought of going for a brand that sold the cheapest hair serum in the market. You can go for any other serum according to your preference!

BONUS – HAIR CARE TIPS!

  • Apart from the above-mentioned hair care routine, I also treat my hair with a homemade hair mask for smooth and bouncy hair. The hair mask is free of cost and includes ingredients readily available at your home. 
  • If you want to go for salon treatments, then the cysteine treatment or keratin treatment are good options. Though in cysteine, the volume appears to have reduced, I personally love it. 
  • Other hair care tips include combing hair once a day, washing hair post swimming (whether on a beach or a pool), treating the hair with homemade hair masks whenever you feel your hair are damaged. 
  • Tying a braid, especially if you have long hair. 
  • Oiling hair before every wash. 
  • Avoiding chemicals on hair. 
  • Using a sufficient amount of moisturising products such as conditioner, hair serum, mousse, homemade hair mask, etc
  • Trying out vitamin E oil or consulting a doctor for the best care of your hair.


Continue Reading:

⇨ Homemade hair mask for reducing hair fall
⇨ Homemade hair mask for reducing dandruff
⇨ Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo review
⇨ Hair care according to your hair type

Disclaimer: This hair care routine personally works great on my hair and I do not guarantee any magical effects. If you're pregnant or are suffering from any illness, consult a doctor. I can't really say whether the hair colour stays intact, so try this routine on your own risk. I have used the Biolo capsules only thrice till now so I don't vouch for them confidently. After all, it is a Chinese product. 
May 07, 2019 No comments

My skin and hair usually ride on a tide I feel. Sometimes they’re so good, sometimes they’re damaged. I remember I used to apply face masks before any important day. So whether it is Diwali or a vacation, I pampered my skin with a routine before any festival. My dad had bought these masks from Italy or someplace and I was unaware of their price. However, now when I study the market, I figure out that these masks were definitely not something I could afford on a regular basis. Right now an average face mask costs around Rs 99 and honestly, that’s too much for me. 

I also used exfoliating scrubs. But now when I look back, I feel disgusted to have used these on my skin. Now my summer skincare routine includes homemade solutions and a few trusted products that I don’t think I’ll be trading any time soon. 

SUMMER SKIN CARE ROUTINE

For glowing and healthy skin, the first and the foremost thing is internal hydration. When people say water and liquids are important, they have a reason behind that. Personally, including liquids in my diet have worked wonders on my skin. My face feels more dewy, healthy, and fresh – so much that I don’t use any foundation anymore! I just put on sunscreen and kajal, and I’m good to go out. My skin has transformed, thanks to the liquid intake!



WHAT LIQUIDS TO DRINK IN SUMMER?

I have a list of my personal favourites that I’ve been consuming this summer. Starting from something as basic as water, I try to drink a glass whenever I remember. Next, buttermilk. The thinner the buttermilk, the better. I don’t add anything in the buttermilk such as salt, pepper, coriander leaves. I simply take a tablespoon of curd, add water, and whisk it. Buttermilk is such a blessing to your stomach in summer. Other summer drinks that you should include are aam panna (kairiche panhe/raw mango juice) and kokum sherbet. Usually, kokum sherbet has basil and cumin seeds extract, making it more preferable to beat the heat inside your body. Another way is to soak basil seeds overnight and consume them with milk and sugar the next day. Basil seeds take away the heat from the body.

Another liquid in my diet is vegetable and fruit juices. I’ve been drinking a glass of homemade juice every morning since three weeks now. I have seen the results on my skin and the overall hydration that keeps me going throughout the day. I recently got a juicer that makes this process even simpler. In summer, your energy is totally down and having these juices just boost you up. After waking up in the morning, I drink one glass of water, followed by the juice of the day. The first option is to mix and match the fruits at home. For instance, today morning I gulped a juice of chikoo, banana, and musk melon. The other day, I drank juice made out of oranges, bananas, and mangoes. If there is no fruit, I take vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and coriander leaves. Next preference goes to water. And if at all the main ingredients require milk instead of water, I take 40% milk and 60% water. I don’t add sugar to my juices. If my mom has soaked basil seeds, I put those in the juicer too. I sometimes add dry fruits such as dried figs and almonds. 



The main motive why I drink a glass of juice every morning is to provide energy, and not for filling my stomach. That is, we don’t have juices to replace the breakfast. We just drink them to keep us hydrated and boost the dropped sugar levels in the body. 

HOW MANY TIMES A DAY TO WASH FACE IN SUMMER?

I am just too strict when it comes to washing my face. Even if I’m dead tired, I still wash my face before sleeping. Whenever I feel sticky and oily, I wash my face. I can’t function with a greasy face. 

I clean my face using a face wash about thrice a day (sometimes even four times a day). Firstly, I wash it as soon as I brush my teeth to take off oils released over the night. Then, I wash while showering followed by if I’m going out in the evening. Lastly, I wash it before sleeping. 

Along with these, I keep on splashing water on my face from time to time without a face wash. Washing face instantly mattifies it. I use the basic variant of Clean and Clear face wash and have been using it for eight years now. 



BEST SUNSCREEN IN INDIA?

Well, I am not a big fan of sunscreen and have recently started using one. Like I said before, I hate to have an oily, sticky skin, which is why using products on my face is a big no. But finally I found a sunscreen that doesn’t make my skin greasier and in fact, hydrates it with its aloe vera extracts. Though the product has a low 20 SPF, I somehow love it. I use Blossom Kochhar Aloe Vera Sunscreen Gel. On my travels, I use a higher SPF. I can’t really recommend a sunscreen however the one by Solasafe is medicinal and comes with a 50 SPF. Another such promising product is by Ansolar, which has 60 SPF. Both these sunscreens are recommended by dermatologists. I have tried Solasafe sunscreen before and surely liked its result. Might buy it sometime in the future. I suggest visiting a dermatologist if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin and are unsure which sunscreen to pick. 

HOW TO REMOVE TAN

Well, there are a number of home remedies to remove tan. In summer, tanning is inevitable so apart from taking measures to avoid a tan, you must also know how to remove sun tan naturally at home. A few people suggest rubbing aloe vera gel, whereas a few suggest applying tomato mask. However, I personally use a homemade mask made out of aloe vera to reduce tanning. You can check it here: https://www.theprettycitygirl.com/2019/04/home-remedy-to-remove-tan-how-to-remove.html



Many women opt for salon services such as anti-tanning wax, anti-tanning facial, etc. I simply suggest you to try the above homemade recipe twice a week to get brighter, glowing skin and quicken the process of de-tanning. 

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIPS

Don't let your hair touch your face
If your hair frequently touches your face then refrain from doing so. The oils and dirt from your hair transfer to your face, thus causing acne and other skin problems. Therefore, tuck your tresses behind your ears or simply tie them up. 

Drink lots of liquids that are sans soda or added sugar
When I say drink lots of liquids, your diet soda or canned juices don't count. Any drink that contains soda, sugar or alcohol should be kept away and instead, homemade juices should be consumed. And again, don't add sugar! The natural sugars are just fine, however, if you're diabetic, you might want to ask your doctor first. Apart from homemade fruit and vegetable juices, liquids like sugarcane juice, buttermilk, lemonade, kokum sherbet, coconut water, aam panna are excellent to beat the heat. 


Drink water
In summers, you dehydrate quicker which is why you need the right amount of water intake. All of us have read that we should be drinking 8 glasses of water per day, however, keeping track on the water intake can be challenging. Furthermore, you need to master the art of drinking more water. 

Avoid oily food
Schezwan noodles sound fascinating but it has a lot of oil in it. Also, fried food like samosa, wada, pakoda, etc. are all delicious but keep them away in summers, please. Having oily food is going to break out your skin leading to pimples, acne. If hungry, you can have simple food such as sandwiches, poha, roti sabzi, etc.



Cover your skin with scarf and light jacket when travelling 
I know, not many people like to cover themselves in scarves and even I was one of those. However, of late, I have realised that a piece of clothing is the best sun protection factor out there. If you're embarrassed by a scarf, take it off for photographs or before reaching to your lunch date.

Don’t forget to put on sunblock on your face and exposed body parts before stepping out
Dermatologists say you must apply sunblock even if you are staying at home because the UV rays tend to pass through the walls. So please, at least when you're not at home, smear some sun protection lotion before stepping out. Read this article by Hindustan Times for more myth-busting sunblock facts. 


For instant freshness, carry rosewater/plain water and splash it on your face
In humid weather, your skin gets oily and greasy immediately. To feel fresh and take off the oils and dirt, just carry rosewater or plain water in a spray bottle and spritz on your face. Later, lightly dab using a face towel to instantly refresh yourself. This is especially amazing when you don't have access to clean water around you. 

Carry blotting paper/tissues/napkins to take off oils from the face
Or if you are wearing makeup and don't want to spritz water on the face, carry a pack of pocket tissues or blotting papers. Simply dab it on the skin to take off oils and mattify your skin.



Use wet wipes for instant freshness when travelling
Another alternative to instant freshness is using wet wipes. Carry those refreshing ones that have fragrances of aqua, lemon, etc. ideally with aloe vera extracts. Avoid floral fragrances or makeup wipes. 

If you are confused about the ideal sunscreen, visit a dermatologist for advice
I am still not very sure about the ideal sunscreen; I'm still figuring that out. However, if you have sensitive skin or have had bad past experience, then I highly suggest visiting a dermatologist. The doctor would analyse your skin type, your activeness, and other factors. Most of my best friends use sunblocks, moisturisers, and face wash recommended by dermatologists and I find it brilliant. 


Mangoes contain vitamins A and C that helps in clearing out the skin and bring radiance
I always had a misconception that eating mangoes lead to pimples, however ever since I came to know that mangoes help in making the skin radiant, thanks to dietician Rujuta Diwekar, I have started eating mangoes again, without any hesitation. And I have observed the difference. The day I eat mangoes, I am happier and my skin glows! 
May 04, 2019 1 comments
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