Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Star Wars: The Last Jedi | Film Review
The 'Force' is back. And this time, be ready to get blown away by its sheer brilliance. The latest film from the Star Wars franchise is all set to release tomorrow. Helmed by Rian Johnson, The Last Jedi is the second film in the sequel trilogy and comes almost two years after the first film - The Force Awakens, was released worldwide. However, Johnson's debut in the Star Wars ' Galaxy' is a bit more superior when compared to it's predecessor in the sequel trilogy. Packed with lots of drama, action, the perfect touch of humour and tons of unpredictable moments; The Last Jedi has it all. But, is it enough to keep you hooked on throughout its running time of 152 minutes? Read on!
Discussing the plot in detail may give away too much from the film (and we certainly do not entertain spoilers). However, The Last Jedi starts off exactly from where The Force Awakens left off. The First Order is ready to launch attacks against the Resistance forces, seeking revenge for destroying their super weapon. Meanwhile, the stories of principal characters like Rey (Daisy Ridley), Kylo (Adam Driver) among others unfold simultaneously. On a faraway planet named Ach-to, Rey comes across Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill). However, a mysterious connection between Rey and Kylo may lead to something unusual. Between the battle of the forces, crisis around the last Jedi looms large. Be prepared for unexpected turns and tides to come your way, that will leave you awestruck and shook.
As the battle rages on, we are also introduced to new characters like Rose Tico (Kelly Marie Tran) - a Resistance maintenance worker, who goes on to become an important part of the fight against the dark side. Then, there is DJ (Benicio del Toro) - a rather enigmatic Thief. Finally, there is Vice Admiral Holdo (Laura Dern). Add to that, the good ol' droids and Chewbacca. Each character effectively contributes to the build up towards the film's climax, which will keep you hooked. If these new characters aren't enough, the adorable Porgs are sure to bring up quite a few 'aww-worthy' moments. Ditto the cute new space horses called 'Fathiers'. Beautiful crystal foxes add some magic.
Shot across Ireland, Croatia and Bolivia; the team magnificently creates the world of Star Wars in and around some stunning locations. The Last Jedi is visually delightful, with marvellous CGI work. Full points to the action department for some incredible face offs, especially a really cool lightsaber action sequence. Mind blown, for sure!
Beyond the wonderful characters, marvellous storytelling and delightful visuals; The Last Jedi explores some really important themes. Right from start to end, the dominant theme of 'Hope' is highlighted during key moments. It brings about the good and bad side of 'Power'. While Johnson deals with an underlying tone of melancholy, betrayal, revenge and anger in the film; he wonderfully balances the same out with courage, resilience and belief.
With the introduction of new characters, the film takes an important step towards the future, while keeping it's heart in the rich past. It creates important bonds between the characters, which helps bring out their individual personality really well. Some moments in the film also accentuate the human side of certain characters and their emotions, creating an instant connect. For e.g Kylo Ren's sense of conflict or Rose Tico's act of gratitude for Finn (John Boyega). There is a lot more to this film than what you may expect.
On the performance front, Driver is simply brilliant! He does complete justice to the menacing, evil and wounded Kylo's inner turmoil, with his excellent act. Ridley's portrayal of toughie Rey is superb. Tran's Rose Tico is refreshing and a welcome new addition. Umm.. Would it sound too cliche if I confess that General Leia's entry turned me a little sentimental? Especially since this is the last time we get to see Late Carrie Fisher essay the role? However, Fisher was flawless as General Leia, and it's tough not to get all emotional while watching a tribute credit roll out in her name. Hamill as Luke Skywalker is fabulous as always. Boyega delivers a fine performance as Finn.
Full of surprises and unexpected twists, The Last Jedi moves a step ahead and provides wholesome entertainment. There are very few movies that can create an impact like this film does. The kind that makes you leave a cinema hall with not just with tons of emotions, but also a sense of optimism. A ray of 'Hope' at the end of darkness, all for the future. The beautiful last frame (before credits roll out) is proof. Ah! Princess Leia, you would be so proud.
Verdict: Highly recommended! This is one of the best films to come from the Star Wars franchise in a long, long time. Do not miss it for anything!
☆☆☆☆
Are you excited to watch 'Star Wars - The Last Jedi'? Leave a comment below to let us know or join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
Dancebee Beauty | Skincare Talk - Mitchell USA (Review)
Winter is upon us, and those with normal to dry skin have already begun prepping up for the dry, harsh weather ahead. While the market is packed with an array of skincare products, it can be quite overwhelming to choose what suits our skin type and concern. However, we are fans of brands that focus on specific concerns and highlight them prominently. One such brand happens to be Mitchell USA, that was launched recently in India. With a strong focus on anti-ageing, pigmentation, discolouration among other concerns, some of the skin care products by Mitchell USA look quite promising, especially for the ongoing season.
Recently, the brand invited us to try some of their latest beauty products. Since I did not fit the requirement for these products, which mostly focus on anti-ageing (and I strongly believe it is important for me to present an honest opinion for you guys), I decided to invite a close friend for this experiential. Over a period of 7 days, she tried some of the products from the brand's ' Age-Less' range. Here's presenting an introduction to the brand, along with a 'tried and tested' honest review.
*Note: None of us at Team Dancebee are huge fans of any product that endorses fairness or skin brightening. For us, beauty comes from within and has nothing to do with colour, shape or size. It helps that our volunteer too was on the same page as us. So, although the range also highlights skin brightening, we will not be focusing on that aspect, because we don't endorse 'fairness' in anyway.
*Note: None of us at Team Dancebee are huge fans of any product that endorses fairness or skin brightening. For us, beauty comes from within and has nothing to do with colour, shape or size. It helps that our volunteer too was on the same page as us. So, although the range also highlights skin brightening, we will not be focusing on that aspect, because we don't endorse 'fairness' in anyway.
What? - Mitchell USA Age-Less range of products
Price: Rs 550 onwards
What do they promise? - Mitchell's age-less range is your non-invasive solution for tightening, lifting skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin tone.
Ingredients: The age-less product range contains Lotus BioRepair MT Complex, which combines extracts from Sacred Lotus Seed (which the brand claims is approximately 1288 years old), with peptides, antioxidants, amino acids, anti-inflammatory botanicals and algae extracts
Tested on: Female, 35-year-old (name with held on request)
Skin Type: Combination
Test period: 7 days (One week)
Product Trial & Review (as stated by our volunteer): Before starting off with this trial, I went through the product details of each item to understand the concern it targets. According to the brand, the range is curated and crafted specially for Indian skin type and tone. After understanding all the products, I created two regimes, one each for day and night.
Day Regime: I start off by using the Papaya Brightening Cleanser. It promises to refine pores and leave the skin feeling smooth. The texture is creamy, and naturally, it has a fruity fragrance. I like massaging this cleanser on my face for sometime, before rinsing it off. The product did not dry out my skin, which helps. The fragrance was a bit too fruity for me, but the cleanser did a decent job. This was followed by the Lift & Firm Tightening Serum. A little bit of this product goes a long way. Lastly, I used the Skin Energiser Peptide Cream. Although the texture was smooth and creamy, it absorbed very well. The fragrance is subtle, which I like. It hydrates pretty well and creates a good canvas for make up as well.
Night Regime: After removing my make up, I cleanse my face with the Papaya Brightening Cleanser. This is followed by the Lift & Firm serum. I used the Night Therapy Anti-Wrinkle cream, which has some good repair and nourishment properties, which works well on your skin overnight. I like to massage this product all over my face, leaving the eye & neck area. Then, I used the Lineless Eye complex, which is an excellent under eye serum and one of my favourite products from the range. It helps reduce puffiness and minimises fine lines. Finally, I massaged the neck area with Neck Therapy Refining Cream. Neck is usually the most neglected area, and it helps that they have a product dedicated to it, which helps in improving the skin texture and firmness. Twice a week, I used the Skin Polish Exfoliating Cream (I skip cleansing, as this one does a fine job anyway). It's a creamy, grainy exfoliator. The product is wonderful, as it helped remove all the excess dirt, sebum quite efficiently. All the creams, including the exfoliator, have a standard fragrance, which is subtle.
Post Trial Experience: A week is not enough to understand the way a product works on your skin. It takes a good amount of time for them to work their magic. However, while sticking to our deadline, there are few things that I did notice. Firstly, the eye serum was fabulous! It helped reduce the puffiness to a good extent. Also, it hydrated the eye area really well. Secondly, I loved the neck therapy cream. It hydrates the neck area and works well to improve the skin texture. I am sure there will be a visible difference with continuous use. Definitely a favourite, and I will be re-purchasing it for sure. Lastly, Peptide hydration cream is a good addition to your daily regime for winter. It moisturises the skin really well and keeps it supple for a good number of hours. Another product that I wouldn't mind repurchasing. The cleanser was just like any other, and the fragrance kind of put me off. So, that's not on my favourites list. The night therapy cream was also pretty good.
Pros: Elegant, easy to carry packaging
Subtle fragrance (except the face wash)
Fine texture
Absorbs very well and leaves the skin feeling smooth
Does a fine job of living up to some of the promises
Hydrates and nourishes the skin very well
Cons: Promotes skin brightening
Not cruelty free (or at least, that's what we think)
Final Verdict: Overall, it was a decent experience. The range scores full marks in the hydration, packaging and quality space. Wish they go a little easy on skin brightening.
Big thank you to our volunteer for taking time out and testing these products for our readers!
Price: Rs 550 onwards
What do they promise? - Mitchell's age-less range is your non-invasive solution for tightening, lifting skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin tone.
Ingredients: The age-less product range contains Lotus BioRepair MT Complex, which combines extracts from Sacred Lotus Seed (which the brand claims is approximately 1288 years old), with peptides, antioxidants, amino acids, anti-inflammatory botanicals and algae extracts
Tested on: Female, 35-year-old (name with held on request)
Skin Type: Combination
Test period: 7 days (One week)
Product Trial & Review (as stated by our volunteer): Before starting off with this trial, I went through the product details of each item to understand the concern it targets. According to the brand, the range is curated and crafted specially for Indian skin type and tone. After understanding all the products, I created two regimes, one each for day and night.
Day Regime: I start off by using the Papaya Brightening Cleanser. It promises to refine pores and leave the skin feeling smooth. The texture is creamy, and naturally, it has a fruity fragrance. I like massaging this cleanser on my face for sometime, before rinsing it off. The product did not dry out my skin, which helps. The fragrance was a bit too fruity for me, but the cleanser did a decent job. This was followed by the Lift & Firm Tightening Serum. A little bit of this product goes a long way. Lastly, I used the Skin Energiser Peptide Cream. Although the texture was smooth and creamy, it absorbed very well. The fragrance is subtle, which I like. It hydrates pretty well and creates a good canvas for make up as well.
Night Regime: After removing my make up, I cleanse my face with the Papaya Brightening Cleanser. This is followed by the Lift & Firm serum. I used the Night Therapy Anti-Wrinkle cream, which has some good repair and nourishment properties, which works well on your skin overnight. I like to massage this product all over my face, leaving the eye & neck area. Then, I used the Lineless Eye complex, which is an excellent under eye serum and one of my favourite products from the range. It helps reduce puffiness and minimises fine lines. Finally, I massaged the neck area with Neck Therapy Refining Cream. Neck is usually the most neglected area, and it helps that they have a product dedicated to it, which helps in improving the skin texture and firmness. Twice a week, I used the Skin Polish Exfoliating Cream (I skip cleansing, as this one does a fine job anyway). It's a creamy, grainy exfoliator. The product is wonderful, as it helped remove all the excess dirt, sebum quite efficiently. All the creams, including the exfoliator, have a standard fragrance, which is subtle.
Pros: Elegant, easy to carry packaging
Subtle fragrance (except the face wash)
Fine texture
Absorbs very well and leaves the skin feeling smooth
Does a fine job of living up to some of the promises
Hydrates and nourishes the skin very well
Cons: Promotes skin brightening
Not cruelty free (or at least, that's what we think)
Final Verdict: Overall, it was a decent experience. The range scores full marks in the hydration, packaging and quality space. Wish they go a little easy on skin brightening.
Big thank you to our volunteer for taking time out and testing these products for our readers!
Blended with Love | Garnier Ultra Blends Review
Like most other children of the 90s, I have fond memories of being introduced to one of Garnier's most popular products - the Ultra Doux hair care range, at the age of 9. The signature fragrance of that hair care range and the iconic bottle is simply unforgettable. So, when the brand recently invited us for a sneak peek into their all new hair care range at an event in Mumbai, we were thrilled. More so, because it was the perfect opportunity to celebrate their new launch and get a little nostalgic too. After all, we've had several beautiful memories of holding that bottle, shampooing our hair (leaving the bathroom smelling all good) and flipping through our luscious locks as children. Honestly, the launch couldn't get better, as Garnier surprised us with a collection like no other.
Yes! You read that right. The brand launched an all new Garnier Ultra Blends range, which consists of five lovely blends, that cater to different hair types and problems. Much like their gorgeous range, the set up at this launch event too was one of a kind. We were mesmerised by the sight of the nature inspired decor and product counters with matching ingredients arranged in a wonderful way. After an introduction to the new launch, some trivia and a glimpse of the product campaign, we got a chance to go through the entire range, one by one.
The Garnier Ultra Blends range includes:
☻ Garnier Ultra Blends Royal Jelly & Lavender: For hair fall / scalp prone to hair fall. Promises to strengthen hair and reduce hair fall
☻ Garnier Ultra Blends Soy Milk & Almonds: For damaged hair. Promises to repair and restore hair
☻ Garnier Ultra Blends 5 Precious Herbs: Contains Green Tea, Henna, Lemon, Aloe and Eucalyptus. Recommended for healthy hair. Promises strong, bouncy hair and a healthy scalp
☻ Garnier Ultra Blends Henna & Blackberry: For dull, dry and lifeless hair. Promises vibrant hair with a brilliant shine
☻ Garnier Ultra Blends Mythic Olive: Blend of Olive Oil and Olives. Recommended for dry, undernourished hair. Promises silkier, smoother and shinier hair
Each blend is unique and different from the other, and aims at providing excellent results for the hair type that it caters to. For someone who is quite picky about the kind of ingredients used in a product, I was very happy with the detailed blend guide that is printed behind every bottle. It's always great to know what goes into the making of your go-to shampoo and conditioner. Plus, every scalp / hair type needs specific care. You cannot use a shampoo meant for oily scalp on an individual who has a normal scalp. The Garnier Ultra Blends range takes this important point into consideration, and has carefully combined blends to match every hair / scalp type.
Personally, I loved the Mythic Oil deep nourishing shampoo, which worked well for my hair. The texture of this shampoo is very rich (it's virgin olive oil, after all), with a lovely fragrance. It cleans the scalp well and leaves your hair feeling soft, nourished and silky. I am looking forward to trying this shampoo with the recommended conditioner, since I am quite happy with the results so far. Another favourite has got to be the Henna & Blackberry blend (quite uncommon from what we get to see in the market today), which has a divine aroma.
What? - Garnier Ultra Blends Range of Hair Care
Price: Shampoo - Rs 55 / Rs 120 / Rs 230 / Rs 430 (for 75ml, 120ml, 340ml & 640ml respectively)
Conditioner - Rs 70 / Rs 175 (for 75ml & 175ml respectively)
Packaging: Beautiful is the word. The Garnier Ultra Blends range comes in the iconic, beautiful bottle that Garnier is well known for. The bottle has a flip cap, which is handy. It's quite decent to carry as well, as the product does not spill out from the bottle.
Pros: Unique ingredients
Options for every hair type
Rich texture
Great fragrance
Fabulous packaging
Economically priced
Good results
Cons: None so far
Verdict: The products from this range have got everything that you need to flaunt naturally beautiful hair. Highly recommended for it's VFM, great packaging, perfect choice of ingredients and variety. Move over 'same old boring shampoos for all', because Garnier Ultra Blends has got something special for everyone and that too, beautifully blended with love.
Outfit Details | Dress: GAP, Sandals: Steve Madden, Watch: Swatch, Sunglasses: RayBan
Shot By: Harshad Sutar
Love,
The Dancebee
Udta Punjab | Film Review
It won't be wrong to say that the makers of Udta Punjab went through a roller coaster of a journey, before their labour of love could release in theatres. Right from finding it difficult to find someone to back the film to getting stuck in a CBFC controversy and finally, emerging victorious just two days away from the film's release. Despite all the obstacles that the team successful passed, Udta Punjab finally hit the screens today and we have enough reasons to call it a must watch.
Director Abhishek Chaubey's Udta Punjab is dark, raw and edgy drama, which follows the journey of four individuals, whose lives get embroiled in the circle of drugs and addiction in different ways. The film opens with a sequence that well explains the way this highly dangerous substance is illegally imported into the country from across the border. We are then introduced to all the main characters who build the story - Tommy Singh (Shahid Kapoor as a loud and wacky pop star, whose live revolves around music, parties and drugs), Bihari Migrant aka Pagaliya / Mary Jane (Alia Bhatt as a state level hockey champion from Bihar, whose life takes the turn for worse as she is brought to Punjab as a labourer), Sartaj Singh (Diljit Dosanjh as the head strong cop) and Dr Preet Sahani (Kareena Kapoor Khan as a doctor based in Punjab, who also runs a rehabilitation clinic for drug addicts). Apart from the lead cast, there are other important characters played by some fine actors who further make the ensemble cast stronger.
Each character's journey begins on one note and ends on a completely different note. It is this very journey that sets the premise of this film. Despite being high on life and considering himself as the king of the world, Tommy Singh is nothing but a lost soul who has no idea where life is taking him. He depends on drugs to help him get a kick and become the 'Gabru', that he is famously known as. Bhatt's bihari migrant is a dreamer, whose only wish is to live a good life. But, it is during the quest to fulfil this very dream that lands her in deep trouble and changes her life forever. Sartaj Singh is one of the many corrupt cops in the area, who does not care about the ongoings in Punjab, until trouble lands at his doorstep and changes his view of the situation in the state forever. Dr Preet Sahani is a warm and caring doctor, whose only mission is to wipe out this addiction, which has paralysed the youth of her state. But, little does she know that life can unpredictable.
Udta Punjab leaves you feeling shocked, surprised and emotional in many ways. Certain sequences in the first half are extremely dark and can, in fact, leave you with goosebumps. As we are introduced to the characters, we also realise how vulnerable they are, irrespective of their stature in the society. This is not your usual candy floss cinema. This is an honest attempt that aims to highlight the problems that plague the state, through the journey of it's four main protagonists and a few other important characters. The treatment meted out to the film is perfect. Director Abhishek Chaubey has used some wonderful techniques to describe the psychological state of every character. The research is commendable and quite eye opening as well. Chaubey keeps the film crisp and avoids unwanted cliches that you may see in any other drug drama. There are no high intensity chases and maar-dhaad here. The scenes that unfold are real and raw. The background score is simply brilliant and we like how the songs are wonderfully woven into the narrative, not making it look abrupt or unwanted. The music composed by Amit Trivedi is very good, and the songs do stay in your mind, even hours after leaving the cinema hall (though I did miss Vadiyaan, which happens to be my favourite song from the film). The dialogues are good, and despite being filled with choicest of expletives, it does not sound gross or out of place. Let's admit it, that's how a lot of people talk. So, no point running away from reality and behaving like we haven't heard people use an abuse each in every sentence. Majority of the film is in the Punjabi and Bihari dialect, hence subtitles have been provided.
What's amazing about this film is the way Chaubey has allowed all four protagonists to lead the way. This is not a one hero film. Udta Punjab belongs to the entire cast, who help shape the film with their well researched characters. Alia is as much the hero of this film as Shahid, Diljit or Kareena. Shahid steps in a completely different world as the crazy rockstar Tommy Singh. He gets the nuances of a substance addict right and puts up a controlled act. It won't be wrong to say that this shall add up to his list of best performances so far. Despite all the wrongdoings, you don't hate Tommy, but tend to sympathise and feel for the character. This is the most complex characters of them all and Shahid does complete justice to it. He portrays a lot of his emotions through the eyes and does an excellent job of essaying this complex role. Alia performs well as the bihari migrant. Although she takes time to get into her character and feel comfortable with the dialect, she does well, especially in the second half. You feel for her helplessness and support her for being a rebel. Diljit makes an impressive debut in the Hindi film industry. His portrayal of Sartaj Singh is not your usual "I am a cop and can beat up 100s" kind of machoism. Diljit essays Sartaj in the most honest and mature manner. He emotes very well, which is certainly his biggest advantage. We would certainly love to see more of him in Bollywood. Kareena looks gorgeous as the calm and composed Preet, who is gritty and determined. While the character doesn't give her much scope to experiment, she puts up a fine performance and leaves an impact. The ensemble cast, especially the actor who plays Balli and one of our favourites - Satish Kaushik are brilliant.
Overall, Udta Punjab is an honest and brilliantly packaged attempt. The kind of cinema that highlights an important issue without being too preachy. The film forces you to think about the often ignored issues, but does not let your mind wander. Instead, you want to stay glued on, anticipating the next move or scene. Definitely, one of the best films to come out in recent times. The artists deserve accolades for their hard work and honest performances. The film proves that no matter what the budget, all you need is a good cast, a well researched plot and serious faith in your project. A must watch!
Verdict: ✮✮✮✮1/2
Love,
The Dancebee
The Silk Veil | Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream
During my hunt for new hair leave-in (honestly, I was looking for something new, although I was quite happy with TIGI's Ego Boost Leave - In conditioner), Kérastase launched their brand new Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Cream. Before its official launch, their team very sweetly posted the products with a customized diary to our HQ and honestly, it couldn't have happened at a better time. The trial period began and so did the process of feeling a change in my hair. Let's face it, monsoons have more bad hair days than good ones and all the humidity, damp environment leaves us with limp or frizzy hair (depending on the hair texture). So, does Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream live up to its expectations and serves as a good product for this weather (or for that matter, all seasons)? Keep reading to find out!
What? Kérastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Cream
Quantity: 150ml
Price: Rs 2200
Shelf life: Approximately Two years
Availability: Exclusive to all Kerastase Consultant Salons
What does it promise? Elixir crème fine is Kérastase's 1st beautifying oil day cream for all hair types: a cream of precious oils for lightweight moisturizing, protection, and flawless perfection. Hair is instantly replenished, radiant and lustrous.
Packaging: Just like all their hair products, the Kérastase beautifying oil cream comes in a classy tube with a metallic cap. The packaging looks very rich, especially due to the choice of golden hue for the tube. It is travel friendly and our personal experience was that it did not spill in the bag during a day long travel. Although similar tubes cause such problems, this one was sturdy and fuss free.
How to use? Take a pea-sized amount in your hand. Apply to the lengths and ends of dry or towel-dried hair. Gently massage the product in.
Texture: Supremely smooth and light weight. Just the way this brand likes to call it, the texture of this product is indeed like silk. A pea sized amount (or a little more, if your hair is longer than mine) is enough to go a long way and ensures that your hair gets de-tangled, feels light and smooth. The product has a little bit of shimmer, which is not visible on your hair, but it does not go unnoticed when you check your palms after application. Despite infusing oils and being a cream based product, the texture is not heavy at all.
Overall experience: I used this product regularly for a month, post wash and towel drying my hair well. During Summer, my hair goes through a lot of wear & tear, thanks to major traveling (especially under the sun during hot afternoons), different forms of work out (and tying up my hair), using hair styling equipments for shoots among other things. Plus, the humidity post Summer (mostly in June) makes my hair feel really heavy and limp. That was the major concern and most products only lead to additional build up of residue. When I started using the Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream, the first trial felt just like most other products, although the texture was really amazing. It would make my hair feel soft and shiny for a few hours and then, all the traveling would take me back to square one. But, as you know, we do not judge anything based on just one trial. After a couple of trials, overtime, I realized the product is actually doing a good job of keeping my hair light, smooth and soft for a couple of days. By the third week, I could notice how even after several hours of work, my hair did not weigh down or feel heavy at all. I also used this along with a pre-styling cream before using the blow dryer for a shoot, and noticed how my hair did not dry out even after two days (which would happen sometimes earlier). I was the happiest when I paired this Oil cream with another product from the same - Elixir Ultime - family. I used the Kérastase Elixir Ultime Versatile Beautifying Oil as a pre-wash treatment and realized that when combined, these two products work as a magic potions for the hair. My hair felt so good, that now, the product has become a part of my hair essentials kit.
Pros: Smooth and extremely soft, light texture
Good packaging
Works overtime to ensure you get the best result
Adds a great, natural shine to your hair
Requires a small amount, so the product will last long
Perfect for all hair types and weather conditions
Cons: None
Verdict: This amazing product not only leaves your hair feeling soft and shiny, but also makes it perfect for experimenting with different hairstyles. Say goodbye to oily, heavy hair that leaves you with no option but to tie it up in a bun. This product comes to your rescue and stays true to almost everything that it promises. Its perfect for my hair and keeps it in control, especially in this confused. I highly recommend the Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream. Give it a try!
Have you tried the Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream or any other product from their Elixir Ultime range? Tell us about your experience on Twitter - @priyaadivarekar - Join the conversation!
Outfit & MU Details
Butterfly print dress - Reliance Trends
Leopard hand cuff - Zara
On my lips - MAC Miley Cyrus Viva Glam
Eyes - Chanel Liquid Eyeliner
Hair - Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream (no styling equipment used)
Outfit & MU Details
Butterfly print dress - Reliance Trends
Leopard hand cuff - Zara
On my lips - MAC Miley Cyrus Viva Glam
Eyes - Chanel Liquid Eyeliner
Hair - Kérastase Beautifying Oil Cream (no styling equipment used)
Love,
The Dancebee
All In A Day's Work
If you are someone who juggles multiple roles and loves being on their toes, hopping from one work meeting to another all day long, then you are part of the same world that I live in. I have got a hang of doing this since school days, where I would juggle studies with dubbing projects and dance shows. Life, surroundings and commitments change, but some things remain the same. And I am quite sure the same applies to most of you out there. We have all been in that situation where due to the morning hustle - bustle, we don't get any time to put together the right outfit or ensure that our face looks perfect just before an important meeting. In today's fast paced life, it is impossible to spend hours before the mirror and that's one reason why I prefer keeping my outfit ready the night before.
But when it comes to skincare, I don't like taking shortcuts. I follow my CTM routine religiously, but I won't deny the fact that I always feel the need of that one versatile moisturizer or cream, that can cut down the time required for lathering on multiple products (read: tinted cream, concealer, foundation and compact powders). I don't like using make up everyday, as I more of a simple eyeliner and lipstick person. Plus, I don't get the time to patiently go through the make up process everyday. Thankfully, the market is filled with some really good BB and CC creams today (which I think is a boon, considering there is something good for every skin type and these tinted creams are perfect for the humid climate in Mumbai) and during my search for something that suits my complexion and skin type, Pond's India invited me to try out the Pond's BB Cream. Instead of just testing the product overtime and reviewing it the way we usually do, I decided to give you a sneak peek into one of the many busy days in my life, where I took up the challenge of testing the Pond's BB cream in order to find out if it stays true to everything that the product promises. Read on the witness a chapter from my diary called life and to see if the Pond's BB Cream passed our test.
Its a Thursday - the day when most folks are busy thinking about mid-week crisis. For me, its a mix of different worlds, as I juggle meetings, film screenings and finalize projects in between events. Thankfully, I have scheduled all my commitments for today at venues that are nearby one another. After the regular CTM routine and some sunscreen, I used the Pond's BB Cream. The product promises to provide natural cover with SPF 30 PA++ (but since I had a long day out, I decided to use my sunscreen anyway). The texture of this product is quite smooth and just a little bit of it is good to go. Those with oily skin type may want to skip the moisturizer and apply this directly, as the texture of this cream is very light and soft. After this step, I just used some compact powder on my T-zone, followed it up an eyeliner and lipstick. I was all set to settle down with my iPad. Time to revert to emails and jot down notes for a meeting, that was scheduled to start at 10:30 am.
Post a two-hour long meeting (which I thought will never stop), it was time to meet some friends over a quick lunch and discuss some new plans. I kept it light, with just a few snacks and refreshing drinks, since I had a heavy breakfast that day and didn't want to feel too full. Seeing your pals after two - three months is like going through a nostalgic trip. I would usually prefer a more laid back outfit for a meet up like this, and a lighter lip colour. Since I couldn't make too many changes, I swapped my heels for a pair of tan flats (I always carry an extra pair of footwear). Oh, and my face continued to look fresh and radiant. No touch up, yet!
Enough talks and memory trips for one day. Its Thursday - the day almost every Film writer and critic dedicates to watching a new release at the press screening. This week, we had Hamari Adhuri Kahani, an emotional roller coaster ride of a film, that stars Emraan Hashmi, Vidya Balan and Rajkummar Rao in the lead. From the humid climate outside to the cold, air-conditioned theatre, lets see how the Pond's BB Cream fares this test. A quick touch up of lipstick and we were ready for the cinemas. Thank god I always carry an extra pair of footwear. It started drizzling and we all know that running around in heels on Mumbai roads is a big no-no.
Woah! That was one heavily emotional film. Though the performances strike out and a few moments do make you feel all teary eyed, the film misses out on the magic that Mohit Suri usually creates with his films. Plus, the songs failed to impress (except the title track, which is decent). This was one film that I was quite kicked about, especially since I had met Mahesh (Bhatt) sir last year and spoken to him at length about the film's conceptualisation. Watch it once, since it is not that bad an attempt. Don't expect teenage love. This is a mature romance with some special, memorable moments that will leave an impact on you (not too big, though). Nevertheless, it was way past 5 pm and I have an event scheduled to start at 7 pm. Just as I walked past Le 15 patisserie, I couldn't stop myself from eyeing an egg-less chocolate cupcake. Somehow, I gave my facial mist a miss, as I noticed that my skin continued to look radiant, just as it was in the morning.
In between relishing a cupcake and attending an event, I had some time to work on a post, revert to some more emails and finalise an important voice over project. I decided to land up at the venue an hour in advance (and get my pair of heels on too). While initially, the idea was to settle down with a cup of hot chocolate in the coffee shop and continue working, the weather and beautiful sunset outset demanded that I head out to the patio area and work from there (and get a few pictures captured as well). The breeze and stunning view made for the perfect out-of-office space. And guess what? Its wonderful how despite the change of venues, humidity and pollution, the Pond's BB Cream continues to do its job well.
And guess what? I am finalized for the VO project *does a happy jig* I couldn't have had a better Thursday. Email reverts for the day were done, meetings for this week were finalised, important calls were taken care of and a few updates on social media platforms were also sorted. Guess my smile says it all! Nothing better than making sure that you complete all your work in time. But working hours are not yet over. 20 minutes to go for an event to begin, and I decided to spend this time by re-scheduling my plan for the next fortnight, making notes about hiring new team mates (Yes! We are hiring) and jotting down new feature ideas.
Its almost 7 pm. A quick visit to the restroom for a touch up left me stunned, as my face looked perfect with a natural finish, even after 7 - 8 hours. A swipe of mascara and lipstick and I was ready for the event (the Pond's BB Cream took good care of maintaining the natural glow on my face. Trust me, this is a real feat. My skin tends to behave weird, especially during climate change). While the product promotes fairness (which is the least of my concerns and something that I do not encourage), what really stood out for me was the way it perfectly evens out your skin tone. Plus, the non-oily texture keeps your skin feeling both hydrated and extremely light, all day long. Its almost as if I haven't applied anything on my face.
For those with light spots, the product works to hide them well (in case of darker spots, please opt for a concealer) and does not make your skin look patchy or supremely white (like a ghost, which some creams tend to do). While I didn't feel the need to re-apply this product, those with oily skin might want to get a touch-up after 4 -5 hours. I like how the product is available in multiple sizes and is packaged in a cute, travel friendly tube. Easy to carry, light on the pocket, super light on your face - the Pond's BB cream is all that you need in your bag (and must have kits) this season.
Now that I was done, it was time to head towards the ballroom area and settle down for an event. The day ended at around 10 pm and of course, I was exhausted. But I was glad that another eventful day came to an end, where I got lots of work done, without wasting time on anything else (touch-ups being one of them).
Outfit Details
T - shirt, Shoes | Zara
Blazer | Marks & Spencer
Jeans | Vero Moda
Watch | Swatch
Bag | H&M
On My Face
Pond's BB Cream - Natural Cover
Compact Powder - MAC Studio Fix Powder (gentle puffs on the T-zone only)
Eyeliner - Chanel Liquid Eyeliner Intensity Definition (10 - Noir Noir)
Lipstick - MAC Ruby Woo
Mascara (evening) - Clinique High Lengths Mascara
Nails - Maybelline Bright Sparks (Firewood Brown)
Note: This post is a collaboration with Pond's India. However, the product was tested for a fortnight before the day long challenge was accepted and shot. All the opinions and thoughts in this feature are honest and written only after testing the product according to the website's policy.
Love,
The Dancebee
