Cosmo Activated charcoal mask Review

I always find happiness in discovering new and different ranges of skincare products. And today’s post is all about a face pack. When I decided to choose this face pack from cosmo, my intention was only to try on a charcoal mask! Yes, I’ve never tried any charcoal masks before. Everyone knows how powerful is activated charcoal in adsorbing dirt and impurities from a surface. So I also wanted to see how it works on skin pores.

 

🔅First of all I should appreciate the quantity of product they provide for a relatively lesser price. One purchase is definitely gonna last for a really long period.

🔅Talking about the brand, cosmo cosmetics is a cruelty free and popular brand in UAE.

🔅The product has an expiry of 3 years which is common as any other face masks  available in the market. 

🔅It has got a typical plastic packaging having a wide round opening with a screw lid.

🔅The active ingredients includes Kaolin clay,Bentonite, Activated charcoal,stearic acid, lemon peel oil,and papaya fruit extract which are quite promising for oil removal and pore cleansing. Ingredients like niacinamide helps to reduce hyperpigmentation.

🔅It also contains parabens, which I personally don’t prefer to have in my regular skincare products.

🔅Cosmo’s charcoal mask very decently serves it’s purpose on the skin. It properly pulls out the excess oil and deep cleanses the pores visibly on the nose area. The freshness stays for 2-3 days. You might feel a kind of burning sensation immediately after applying it on face.(which is not a new thing for bentonite clays) But it doesn’t last more than 1 minute.

🔅 The only thing I didn’t like about the packaging part of this product is that it has written “Whitening Complex” on the label. I never appreciate any kind of fairness products OR any products that claims skin whitening. 

Every skin tone is beautiful and all we need to do is take care of it for keeping it healthy.

WHICH ARE THE NATURAL PRESERVATIVES THAT CAN BE USED IN DIY SKINCARE PRODUCTS?

Is Preservatives used in cosmetics harmful? Which are natural preservatives?

Today’s skincare market is a platform for infinite number of brands where they compete each other in the name of quality  labels. There are plenty of brands which are labeled as “cruelty free”, “SLS free”, “Paraben free” and so on. But I think that sometimes these labels are bit confusing or misleading to wrong concepts. Here I’m trying to give some insights on “Preservative Free” labels on skincare products. 

Let it be a skincare, haircare, personal care, or even food stuffs. We can notice it’s written as “Preservative free” on the packaging. This will always make a scary concept about preservatives among the consumers. As a result whenever they purchase the next product they will be searching for these preservative free products. In this phase three things need a clarification:

1. What is preservatives? Are they actually harmful?
2. Is it possible to produce skin care products without preservatives?
3. What are the facts about natural preservatives?

Let’s start on Preservatives. Preservatives are certain substance/chemicals that are added during the formulation of skincare products for extending their shelf life. That means preservatives play an important role in keeping your favorite skincare item last longer. Apart from some chemicals like formaldehyde, preservatives are not at all proved hazardous.

In any process industry, there will be a stoichiometry of raw materials to form the final product. The same is in case of cosmetics formulation. A minimal amount of preservatives are not going to kill you. Only at higher doses these can act as toxic. All you need to make sure is there is no hazardous preservatives such as formaldehyde, Urea , Phthalates etc is present in the ingredients list.

Now, you may have got the answer for the next question that is, 

Is it possible to produce skincare products without preservatives? 

The answer is a big No. Then why several brands market their products by claiming that the are free from preservatives? Well, it might be some sort of marketing strategies, whatever!

Any product you chooses the expiry mentioned on the packaging might be 1,2 or even 3 years.So it’s clear that these products are going to last for a long period of time. Now, if you checked the ingredients list you would be able to find Aqua/water in any of them. Is a product having water in it going to last that long? Where there is presence of water there is a chance of mold and bacterial growth. And also whenever the product comes in contact with a humid atmosphere. So, preservatives are in fact a necessary ingredients in cosmetics.

Then why not natural preservatives?Which are natural preservatives?

Definitely there are several natural preservatives like Radish root ferment filtrate, Honeysuckle, Aspen bark extract, Gluconolactate etc.

But these natural preservatives can assure only a maximum 6 months of shelf life. And also they need to be used in large quantities like 30-35% which is not cost effective. Otherwise these are good options especially for homemade cosmetics. 

Here, I should make a clarity on preservatives used in DIYs. Many bloggers in YouTube and online are guiding the viewers to use Vitamin E oil, glycerin and grape seed extracts as preservatives. Vitamin E can act as an anti oxidant if used by a higher percentage. That may help to prevent facial oils or oil based DIYs from oxidizing to some extent. Otherwise Vitamin E is not a preservative. Grape seed extract is again not a preservative. Glycerin has the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria if used properly. A volume of 50% or more is needed to serve the purpose of preservative. And that might not be practical in DIY skincare. If you are using a small percentage of glycerin for the purpose of moisture lock, it would work great. 

HOW TO CURE BLACKHEADS ON NOSE?

HOME REMEDIES FOR BLACKHEADS ON NOSE

Whatever be the glow on the skin, there might be a disturbance of thoughts about the blackheads or whiteheads on nose. Is there any home remedies to cure blackheads on nose? Why do they occur? Well, we’ll discuss some insights on blackheads and see how to remove them in your home.

Blackheads and whiteheads are in fact a feature of mild acne that usually developed on facial skin or rarely on the other parts of body. Most commonly blackheads are formed on the nose and chin area. This is happened due to the clogging of pores on skin. The tiny bumbs hence formed are of two types. If the skin over these bumbs are seemed to be closed, they are called as whiteheads. When the skin over the bumbs are open they are called as blackheads.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BLACKHEADS?

There are several reason for causing blackheads and whiteheads on face. Let’s see the most common things that pave paths to form these kind of mild acne.

1.       Hormonal imbalance in body for teenagers

2.       Hormonal imbalance in adults due to the intake of certain medicines/steroids or due to menopause.

3.       Topical use of comedogenic cosmetics that cause to the clogging of pores.

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT MORE OF THEM?

If any development of blackheads or whiteheads experienced, the first thing to do is to follow these things in order to prevent more of them.

·         Avoid the application of heavy creams and oils on skin. Choose noncomedogenic products instead.

·         Wash your face with a salicylic acid containing cleanser twice a day. Remember to clean the skin immediately after the work out or exposure to pollution.

·         Don’t allow hair oils to sit on the scalp while sleeping. It can clog the pores on foreheads and face as well.

·         Get all your hormones tested if you are woman. There are chances to form acne if you have PCOS.

·         Do not pick at blackheads/whiteheads. Because while picking at them you are introducing more bacteria and it causes more infection.

·         Exfoliate with gentle scrubs at least twice in a week.

·         Eat healthy. Especially the greens. Drink enough water. Avoid excessive intake of sugar and dairy.

·         Do not use your own tools to remove blackheads.

·         Avoid oil massages.

HOME REMEDIES FOR BLACKHEADS

1.       NEEM PASTE

Make a paste of equal quantities of Neem and basil leaves. Apply on the affected area and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Practice daily for best results.

2.       HONEY & CINNAMON MIX

Mix honey and cinnamon powder in the ratio of 2:1. Apply on the nose (affected area) and leave for 15 minutes. This mask can be applied on alternative days.

3.       EGG-WHITE

Egg white is excellent in tightening the pores of skin. Apply a layer of egg white on the face as a mask. Once it is dry, wash with normal water.

4.       FENUGREEK PASTE

Fenugreeks are to be soaked and made a paste. Apply this paste and leave for 20 minutes. This remedy gives better results. Fenugreeks are very effective in treating skin inflammations.

5.       CLAY MASK

Clay masks can be prepared in using different ingredients. For example, you can make a clay mask by mixing fuller’s earth powder, yogurt and lemon juice. Or you can use rosewater to make a paste with fuller’s earth.

6.       HOME MADE GLYCOLIC ACID PEELS.

Glycolic acids are more effective in treating acne and even wrinkles because of its ability to penetrate skin. Chemical peels are nowadays very common. You can make DIY Glycolic acid peels at home with no expense.

Check the recipes of DIY Glycolic acid peels here. DIY Glycolic acid peels

HOW TO MAKE GLYCOLIC ACID PEELS TO TREAT BLACKHEADS?

HOW TO MAKE GLYCOLIC ACID PEELS AT HOME TO TREAT BLACKHEADS AND WRINKLES?

Glycolic acid falls in the category of AHA’s. Glycolic acid peels /chemical peels are widely used to treat acne, blackheads, whiteheads and wrinkles on skin. Glycolic acid can be derived from the natural sources like sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, unripe grapes etc.

Due to the capability to penetrate skin, glycolic acid finds application in skincare products. Now, let’s see how to make glycolic acid peels at home.
   

11.  Carrot juice     : 1 teaspoon

Honey              : 1 teaspoon

Sugar               : 2 teaspoon

Mix these 3 ingredients. Allow the sugar crystals to dissolve completely. you’ll get a sticky mixture. Apply as layer on skin. wash off after 20 minutes. If you have blackheads on nose, use this peel regularly and see the result.

22.  Pineapple juice           : 1 teaspoon

Sugar                           : 2 teaspoon

Lemon juice                : 1/2 teaspoon

Mix the ingredients and apply a layers on face. Leave for 20 minutes and wash. This recipe is also effective as the first one.

33.  Grape juice     : 1.5 teaspoon

Sugar               : 2 teaspoon

Mix sugar and grape juice. Use unripe grapes for better results.

Be sure that you are using a sunscreen while exposed to the sun if you practice glycolic acid peels. Because the skin will be a bit sensitive to the sun. Apply glycolic acid peels in the evening, not in the morning.

Harmful Chemicals In Your Toilet Soaps

Toilet soaps are an indispensable personal hygiene. Well, I’ll suggest bar soaps than liquid soaps as it is a matter of sustainability. But the only message that I need to pass to my readers is that you have to be wise choosing your personal care products every time. All these skin care and hair care products are being exposed to our body in a regular basis for a long term. It is definitely going to make an impact on our body. It’s better to take care of your body from today.

These are the ingredients in toilet soaps that you should not bring to home.

1.Dioxane

Dioxane is a chemical compound classified as an ether, and used as a solvent for a variety of practical applications. It is derived from diethylene glycol. The hazardous fact about Dioxane is it is featured in California’s Proposition 65 list of Carcinogens.

2.SLS

Very important!!! 

You may have seen several times the term ‘SLS’. Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, Sodium Laureth Sulfates and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfates are come under the category of SLS or Sulfates. (not to be confused with Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate)

Sulfates cause irritation on skin,eyes or lungs. SLS bonds with other common soap ingredients resulting in a carcinogenic nitrosamine.So, always choose SLS free soaps.

3.Triclosan

Triclosan is a chemical with anti bacterial properties like pesticides. It can influence the thyroid hormone balance. For some people it may cause skin/eye/lung irritation. The FDA has banned it’s use in liquid soaps in 2016.

4.Parabens 

Parabens like methyl paraben,propyl paraben,ethyl paraben, butyl parabene, benzyl paraben, etc. are generally found in most of the cosmetics and hair care products. The risk about parabens is that they can act as disruptors ie, can interfere with the activities of natural hormones present in our body.

Making it more clear, parabens can act like estrogen which is an important sex hormone. Excessive exposure to parabens hence may lead to early puberty in females, breast cancers or fertility issues in males.

5.Formaldehydes & Ureas 

Formaldehyde is usually act as a preservative in most of the personal care products,which is harmful to our skin.These can cause irritation on scalp and can even help in tumor growths.

You may not be able to see formaldehyde in some of the products. That doesn’t mean they are all formaldehyde free. There are chemicals called Ureas which  release formaldehyde. They are :

1. Diazolidinyl urea
2. Polyoxymethylene urea
3. Imidazolidinyl urea

Make sure to choose a soap which is free from formaldehydes.

6.Tetra Sodium EDTA

It is a white solid chemical that is highly soluble in water. In toilet soaps, they work like a hard water- softener. You can feel the difference if you have used EDTA soap and a normal soap with the same hard water. Normally soaps lather less in hard water. There comes the duty of Tetra Sodium EDTA. They have a property called chaleting power to soften the hard water by bonding with metal ions present in hard water. These are categorized under hazardous chemicals.

It’s what you choose today matters for tomorrow

HOW TO MAKE FACE SERUMS IN HOME

What is a Face Serum?

Face serums are normally a clear viscous liquids in texture, formulated for treating specific skin problems. There are Vitamin C serums which works on sun damage, dark spots and pigmentations. There are Hyaluronic acid serums which are best for a hydrated and younger looking skin. There are Skin brightening serums, there are reparative and renewing serums like rosehip oil serums, there are anti aging serums, and the list goes on.

Now, what is the difference between serum and moisturizer? Moisturizer is used for locking the moisture in your skin where a serum penetrates into the deeper layers of your skin to work. Serums need not to be applied daily as moisturizers. If you wish, you can definitely apply your serum on a regular basis in the night. Generally face serums are little expensive. So here I’m sharing 5 options to make your own serums as per your skin concerns in home! But most of them are not meant to be stored for a long time as it doesn’t contain preservatives in it. Still, they are really wonderful for a healthy glowing skin especially the last one.Have a look !

1.Rosehip oil serum

Ingredients:

1. Rosehip oil -15ml
2. Almond oil -15ml
3. Lemon essential oil - 15 to 20 drops

Mix the three ingredients well and store in an amber glass bottle with glass dropper.

This serum will last till it finishes if no moisture content is present.Rosehip oil serum has really good anti aging properties.

2.Vitamin C Serum (A)

Ingredients: 

1. Distilled water - 24ml
2. L Ascorbic acid-1/2teaspoon
3. Veg.glycerin - 2ml
4. Vitamin E capsule -2drops

Mix L Ascorbic acid powder (vitamin C powder )with distilled water. When the mixture becomes clear add glycerin and vitamin E drops.mix well and store in an amber glass bottle. This serum will last up to 10 days after which you have to prepare a fresh batch for further.

3.Vitamin C serum (B)

Ingredients:

1. Rose water -24ml ( no added color or fragrance)
2. Veg.glycerin -4ml
3. L Ascorbic acid - 1/2 teaspoon
4. Vitamin E capsule - 2drops

Mix L Ascorbic acid with rose water. When the solution becomes clear add glycerin and vitamin E drops.mix well and store in an amber glass bottle.It will last for 10 days.

Vitamin C is rich in anti oxidants which helps to neutralize the free radicals and to treat sun damage,dark spots and blemishes.

4.Hyaluronic acid Serum 

Ingredients:

1. Distilled water- 29ml
2. Hyaluronic acid powder- 0.3ml
3. Veg glycerin -0.15ml
4. Vitamin E capsules -2 drops

Mix Hyaluronic acid powder with distilled water to get a clear liquid. Add glycerin and vitamin E drops,and you’re done! You have to prepare fresh batch after every 8 -10 days.

5.Skin Brightening Serum

Ingredients:

1. Aloe vera gel -20ml
2. Clear Cucumber juice - 10ml
3. Lemon essential oil - 10drops
4. Vitamin E  -2drops 

Mix the aloes vera gel and cucumber juice first. Then add lemon essential oil and Vitamin E drops. It should be kept in refrigerator for only one week. This serum will work wonderfully on oily skin. 

Take care of your skin !

PLUM’s Green Tea Clear Face Mask Review

Today each individual is becoming really conscious about their skin,hair and body. The noticeable and appreciable thing is that many people have started choosing their skin care products by observing on the brand. What are the factors that boosts a skincare or hair care brand among the crowded market of similar products? Obviously ingredients comes in first place. Here is my findings on Plum goodness green tea clear face mask. This was the first product which i tried from plum’s green tea family. Yes, the brand is a cruelty free, No paraben and No phthalates one.and also they are 100%vegan.

I never trusted or used any fairness creams till date. And I’ll never appreciate fairness products.There’s nothing to do with fairness creams in taking care of your natural skin, hair and body.Many people get confused between fairness and skincare. Well that’s a different topic though, Plum goodness don’t manufacture any fairness products other than skin care products.The next reason behind my fondness to plum.

I always go through ingredients of every product which I introduce to my skin. If you are a person who opt for ready to apply face packs, you may give a try to this one.The product comes in a round shaped glass bottle with a plastic cap having a volume of 60g.

 On the ingredients side you can find the major ones like:-

1.Kaolin and Bentonite which are naturally occurring fine and soft white clay. These clays have good absorption properties which is good for dirt and oil removal.

2.Cetearyl Alcohol present in the product is a fatty alcohol,commonly found in plants and animals (similar to coconut oil and palm oil) which is different from other drying alcohols like ethanol.These fatty alcohols are usually added in cosmetics in order to prevent the separation of oil and liquid from the cream. They are generally called Emulsifiers.

3.Glycolic acid which is a naturally occurring colorless and odorless crystalline solid substance that helps in treating acne, blackheads, whiteheads and oiliness acting as an exfoliate.

4.Camellia sinesis leaf extracts which is a variant of tea plants. 

5.Glyceryl stearate or GMS which is an ester of stearic acid. It offers skin conditioning and hydration due to glycerin content.

 As the brand state, this one decently does its job. This is a better ready to use clay mask if you have an oily, acne prone, or normal skin.  Ones in a week after a facials steam really really works on your pimples and oily nose😁. You can feel a slight sensation of burning or cooling as the Bentonite clay start to work on skin. It calms within 3-5 minutes and that’s okay. For me this was a perfect product for the last 6 months.I won’t suggest this for dry skin beauties anyway.

Choose the best for your skin !