Carrot seed oil is a golden-yellow colored liquid extracted from the dehydrated seeds and roots of carrot or Daucus Carota through steam distillation method. It has long been considered as a natural health remedy all over the world due to its high nutrient content. But apart from its health benefits, it can be used as a beauty aid too. Here are top 6 beauty benefits of carrot seed oil:

Carrot seed oil is an efficient emollient, which helps lubricate the cells present in the surface layer of the skin by restoring their lost moisture. It not only hydrates the skin by balancing its natural oil content, but also makes the dry and rough tissues softer. Moreover, the unique composition of the oil moisturizes the skin perfectly without making it greasy or clogging the pores.

Carrot seed oil is loaded with powerful antioxidants including beta-carotene (the most effective type of pro-vitamin A), vitamin A and vitamin E. These are known to provide utmost protection to the skin from the oxidative damages caused by free radicals due to long exposure to the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) of the sun, environmental pollution, poor nutrition, regular habits of smoking and drinking, unhealthy lifestyle, and excessive stress. As a result, the natural process of aging gets delayed and we can stay away from developing symptoms of premature aging like fine lines, expression lines, wrinkles, age spots, etc.

The oil is rich in more than 600 acknowledged carotenoids (a certain group of oil-soluble antioxidants that get assimilated in our cells instantly), tocopheryl and vitamin E, which offer excellent protection from the harmful UVR of the sun by increasing our body’s immune response significantly. The presence of such a huge amount of antioxidants makes it an effective natural sunscreen (with sun protection factor or SPF lying anywhere between 35 and 40) that can stop skin damages, heal sunburns, avert photo aging and prevent skin cancer.

It has been found that ‘retinol’, which is basically a derivative of vitamin A, can speed up the procedure of ‘cellular turnover’ in our body, thereby putting a stop to the accumulation of dead skin cells in the pores. As the skin pores remain unclogged, we experience lesser breakouts. The same is true in case of carrot seed oil too. Being full of vitamin A, it can detoxify our skin cells faster, which makes it a good natural treatment for acne.

It has already been said that carrot seed oil has amazing anti-aging properties. Similarly, it can be used for repairing skin damages as well as restoring its natural health too. The oil contains plenty of ‘carotol’, vitamin E and vitamin C, which are known to renew our skin cells, keep them sufficiently hydrated and shield them from sun, environmental and stress-related damages respectively. So, regular usage of the oil can actually rejuvenate the dull, lifeless skin by repairing it thoroughly and promoting the growth of new cells.

Last but not the least; carrot seed oil can efficiently heal minor to major skin conditions as well as infections including eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, infected wounds, weeping sores, etc. The carotol content of the oil helps in making the body free from toxic materials and increasing the number of red blood corpuscles (RBCs), which promote the growth of new cells in the damaged parts of the skin and eventually heal the infections faster.

Scrubbing your skin is accepted as an important part of skin restoration and beauty regime. However, it is advised by dermatologists that excess usage of scrub can also prove to be harmful by making your skin rough, dry and open to itching sensation. It is therefore essential that you take the assistance and guidance of a professional expert in case of any skin problem or allergy.

Facial scrubs are generally creams and lotions used for face clean up purpose and removal of dead skin cells. Scrubs are made of milk ingredients and grounded grains, nuts and other synthetic elements that provide with gentle abrasive texture and cleaning effect at its best.

When to use facial scrub?

Our skin remains exposed to regular dirt and dust, which results in dead and scratchy skin cells. Scrubbing is essentially helpful in removing these patchy tans and dead cells, thus making your skin look refreshed and clean. The micro-beads of facial scrub clean the dirt from inner pores and make your face appear glowing and smooth.

However it is equally true that scrub tends to make the skin raw and sensitive with its abrasive texture, if overdone. Therefore it is suggested that you do not indulge in regular scrubbing. Instead opt for facial scrub once in fifteen or twenty days. If you have oily skin type, then a more frequent scrubbing regime is advised, i.e. once in seven-ten days. Most importantly, make certain that you use quality scrubbing product as it directly brushes your face. Stay away from cheap and chemical products which may hamper your skin with rashes, redness and itchy feeling.

Are scrubs harmful for skin?

This is a common query that strikes every mind before using scrub items. It is observed that due to its coarse and rough feel, many people fear using scrubs on their skin. However, the fact is that scrubs are actually good for skin, if utilized in a proper and professional manner.

Below we have provided you with some tips to follow in order to enjoy maximum benefits of facial scrubbing:

• Use a cleanser lotion initially on the face and wash it properly. Do not use scrub directly on the skin first.
• Regular usage of scrub is strictly a no-no as it makes your skin rough and open to rashes. Always maintain a gap of 15-20 days; in case of oily skin you can opt for scrub once weekly.
• Scrubs remove the dirt from your skin thoroughly, thus preventing clogging of skin pores in an effective manner.
• Always use ice cubes or a face pack or some soothing lotion on your face after using face scrub. It will help reduce the redness and inflamed feeling.

Dark or black lips are nothing but highly pigmented lips. It can be resulted from poor food habit, unhealthy lifestyle, smoking, excessive stress, environmental pollution, and so on. But whatever the reason lying behind it is, we simply don’t like to have such an ugly pout. Do we? So, let me share some amazing tips with you that will help you turn your dark lips into rosy pink:

1. Apply a good amount of cocoa butter or shea butter onto your dark lips and massage them thoroughly twice a day. It will keep them soft and moisturized by preventing cracking and darkening.

9. Prepare a rich blend by grinding some almonds (soaked overnight) and adding fresh milk cream to it. Massaging your lips with it can be very helpful in making them rosy pink.

10. You can get your very own lip tonic by mixing fresh lemon juice and cucumber juice with some coconut water. Regular use of this can make lips soft and pink naturally.

12. Take some fresh rose petals and makes a paste of it with water. Add a little butter to it. Now, massage your lips with the mixture. It will help you restore their natural pink shade.

15. Scoop out the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf and massage your lips gently with it twice a day. Your lip color will change to a great extent.

We always admire a glowing and healthy looking skin, but how many of us even follow the basic rules of skin care properly in our daily life? It’s true that with a fast paced lifestyle to cope up with, we do not get enough time to indulge in various beauty regimes and healthy options rightly. However, it is equally true that you do not need to spend hours or fortune in skincare. Some simple yet highly effective tips and tricks can help keep your skin stay amazingly beautiful without extra effort.

There are some silly bad skin habits that most of us do, however not deliberately. If you can take care of these basic habits, you can recover your glowing skin successfully without struggle. Excited to know more? Read below to get enhanced…

The UV rays of sun hamper our skin badly. It tends to burn the skin, resulting in patches and tan which become hard to remove later. Hence it is suggested that you always use a good SPF sunscreen before stepping out of home.

Even if you are having a tough time with your pimple problem, make sure that you never pop it with hands or nails. It is advised that you consult a dermatologist and use proper skincare products to get rid of pimples effectively.

Over indulgence in fast food items and alcoholic drinks should be avoided strictly in order to get a healthy looking skin. If you have smoking habit, it needs to be curtailed as these habits result in body toxins which affect the skin’s texture, color and health.

To boost your beauty, never opt for too much makeup products which clog the skin pores and prevent the skin from breathing naturally. Instead of cosmetic items, always try to use herbal products for your beauty enhancement.

Our facial skin is more sensitive and soft in comparison to body; therefore it is essential that you do not use soaps to clean your face. As an alternative, bank on natural face cleaners and gel face wash to make your skin clean, moisturized and hydrated rightly.

Many of us often go to sleep without removing the makeup and dirt properly after a long and tiring day. This practice is extremely bad and harmful as the chemical ingredients of cosmetic products get to hinder our skin for longer time period. Hence, always make sure that you wash and clean your face and neck thoroughly before going off to bed.

Using warm water during winter days is a normal practice but you should never opt for hot water for shower throughout the year. Some people feel relaxed and rejuvenated after a bath of warm water; however make certain that it’s not too hot. Boiling hot water damages the skin and its soft texture, making it appear dry, flaky and blistered.

This is a more common practice among children and teenagers who often share their cosmetics, combs and other beauty products with friends. Though sharing is always a good gesture, there are several things which are better not shared due to health benefits. It is always suggested that you do not use other people’s comb, cosmetics and towels that can result in bacterial breakouts.

Overdoing anything is bad…it’s same for your skincare also. Never indulge in facials and face packs regularly as it makes the skin dry and patchy. Maintain a minimum gap of 10-15 days between two facial sessions in order to have glowing skin tone.

To keep your skin healthy and bright, proper rest of at least 7-8 hours is crucially needed. Late night sleep mostly result in dark circles, wrinkles and puffy eyes. Therefore, always try to have sound sleep at the end of the day which can work wonder in rejuvenating your senses.

Lemon has been accepted as a natural skin lightening product since long. Its high content of vitamin C and antioxidants make it a wonder fruit that is known as ‘natural bleaching agent’. Though there are several thoughts and controversies regarding lemon and its diverse skin lightening effects, there is no doubt that it can help you enjoy a fairer skin tone within days in the most natural and effective manner.

Small in size yet full of benefits, lemon is loaded with multiple beauty properties that are sure to make your skin look vibrant and attractive in an effortless manner. Some of the prominent benefits that you get to enjoy by regular usage of lemon juice on skin include the following:

It exfoliates the skin from deep inside and gives you a glowing and radiant exterior. Having properties of bleaching such as alpha hydroxy acids, lemon assists in shedding off dead skin cells. It thereby prevents clogging of skin pores which tends to make your skin look rough and coarser, allowing it to breathe and grow better.

Its healthy content of Vitamin C is another excellent benefit of using lemon. From pigmentation reduction to removal of skin tan, dark spots and more, lemon is the handiest and natural solution to get a lighter and brighter skin tone easily.

Lemon juice is also useful in removing blackheads and extra oil from different body parts such as nose, forehead etc. It makes your skin look non-greasy and lively by avoiding blockage of skin pores perfectly. Use lemon juice regularly on the affected area and you will get the best relief without any side effects.

Another prominent benefit of using lemon juice is that it prevents your skin from the harsh UV rays of sun, thus acting as a natural sunscreen solution that retains your original skin tone.

Forget about using those cosmetic skin lightening products available over the counter shops. You can use natural benefits of lemon juice for your skin quite easily and regularly. While some prefer to use it directly on the skin, others opt for some face packs to ensure maximum profit. Below we have talked about some of the way to use lemon juice in order to get a healthy and glowing skin tone within weeks:

1. Squeeze fresh lemon juice in a spray bottle and use it regularly on your face, hands and neck skin thoroughly. Wash off with cold water after leaving for 15-20 minutes.

2. On the other hand, if you suffer from itchy feeling due to direct contact of lemon juice on skin, various homemade face packs can be at your help. Mix gram flour, lemon juice and other ingredients such as honey, aloe vera, sandalwood etc to it and apply it evenly. Allow it to dry for 20-25 minutes and wash off.

3. Take fresh lemon juice on a cotton ball and apply it on your skin in circular movement for 10 minutes. Make sure that you use only original lemon juice and not the bottled solutions available in the market. Most of these packaged items are diluted with water, making it less effective.

Soft glowing skin is the desire of every woman in order to look beautiful and attractive. At the same time, it is observed that majority of women, especially in Asian nations, have a liking for fairer skin tone. If you also have a secret desire to get whiter skin, this article can be the perfect help for you.

What is Skin Whitening?

Skin whitening basically refers to treatments and cosmetic cures that are done with the purpose of lightening the skin color and various other pigmentation problems. With help of skin whitening regime, you can get rid of scar marks, tan and skin patches effectively.

Benefits of Natural Skin Whitening vs. Cosmetic Skin Whitening

Natural processes are always more advised and recommended than cosmetic methods, especially for skin and sensitive areas. The basic benefits that you get to enjoy with natural skin treatment in comparison to the cosmetic solutions include the following:

• Natural treatment processes are devoid of any side effect, making it a safe and secure option to bank on.
• It’s 100% natural and loaded with natural benefits which works wonder within a short span of time in comparison to chemically treated products.
• Finally natural skin care processes are more budget friendly and easily available in an effortless way.

Natural Food Items for Skin Whitening

There are some simple food items that can gift you with fairer skin tone, if used regularly. Below we have stated some of these wonder foods to help you better:

1. Soybean products: Considered as an excellent food item that lightens skin tone, soybean has anti aging properties that prevents wrinkles and other signs of aging. It also helps hold the moisture and luster of the skin, making your skin appear soft, vibrant and fairer.

2. Lemon juice: An amazing natural bleaching agent that certainly adds a glow to your skin, lime juice has high content of Vitamin C. It also helps in getting rid of other skin problems such as blemishes, wrinkles and blackheads. Its anti aging properties keep the skin pores firm and younger looking in a simple way.

3. Green vegetables and citrus fruits: Maintaining a healthy eating habit with loads of vegetables and fruits is advised by doctors as another effective way of making your skin fairer and healthier. Food items such as tomato, kiwi, apple, oranges etc are high in vitamin C content which helps maintain a bright skin color in the most natural manner.

4. Dark cocoa Chocolates: Gorge on some dark chocolates to get fairer and smooth skin texture. Having excellent antioxidant properties, dark chocolate consist of cocoa which is rich in flavonoids, thus helping as a protection against UV rays.

5. Beetroot: To get fairer skin complexion, opt for a healthy body system which is devoid of all toxins. Beetroot is the food that not only cleans the blood but also fights against other toxin intakes in liver. It consists of high proportion of iron, magnesium, phosphorous and various vitamins which play a prime role in skin whitening process.

The skin of hands and feet are the most uncovered part of our body that not only manages variety of household works but also stay open to direct UV sunrays and pollution. Hence, it is observed that the skin of hands and feet tend to get wrinkled, cracked, and rough and discolored at the earliest. Few minutes of special care for hand and foot are undoubtedly essential, even amidst regular work chores.

Benefits of Whitening Cream

Skin whitening cream is a widely used beauty product that can ward off many skin problems eventually, if utilized in a proper and regular manner. Some of the benefits that are associated with hand and feet whitening cream include the following:

It makes your skin appear whiter and fairer if used regularly. Studies and surveys have revealed that whitening creams, if used regularly, can be quite effective in reducing the skin tone to a lighter shade.

Whitening creams are easily available over the counter, in drug stores and online stores. These products are more budget friendly and affordable in comparison to other cosmetic products.

Whitening cream is made of various herbal ingredients and elements such as arbutin and retinol that are safe and without any side effects.

Homemade Hand and Feet Whitening Cream

Though various types of whitening creams are easily available in the market, it’s equally true that these cosmetic items are chemically treated which can result in side effects. Hence, there can be nothing better than a homemade solution. Made from the best of natural products and its extracts, home-based hand and feet whitening cream is sure to be more effective and beneficial for your skin treatment process. Below we have provided you with the process of making whitening cream at home:

1. Take some gram flour in a bowl and add some pinches of turmeric powder to it. You can even mash whole turmeric in mixer and to extracts the juice.

2. Squeeze in some drops of fresh lemon juice in it and mix well. If your skin is allergic to bleaching agents, it is advised that you do not use the lemon juice as it can result in irritation and itchy feeling.

3. Now pour in some natural cream (extracted by boiling the milk or yogurt thoroughly) and mix all together in a balanced manner until it looks perfect.

4. Apply this homemade whitening cream on your hands and feet to get maximum benefits at the earliest. You can even store this lotion in your refrigerator for regular usage.

Our stressful lifestyles wreak havoc on our body. Our modern lifestyles are such that our bodies are subjected to a lot of processed and refined foods, without getting adequate rest for repair and rejuvenation. This all results in the build-up of a lot of stress. Eventually, the body begins to show signs of weariness and fatigue, and the dark circles under your eyes are just an indication of how much your body is going through.

Thankfully, you do not have to live with these ugly dark circles under your eyes. There are a lot of products available commercially, that help you get rid of the dark circles on your face, giving you your youthful and fresh appearance back. Some of these creams are astonishingly effective, while others will give you mild results. In the end, it all really depends on which cream suits you the most. Here is our pick of the top under eye creams and products available in India:





1. Neutrogena Fine Fairness Eye Cream: Neutrogena is a leader in cosmetic and skincare products. The Neutrogena Fine Fairness Eye Cream is a daily use cream recommended by dermatologists. It contains yeast extracts that reduce the puffiness under your eyes and make you look fresh and young. It improves skin tone and also reduces the appearance of fine lines around the eye contours. It is suitable for all skin types.

2. L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Under Eye Cream: This cream is the perfect antidote to your daily stress and unhealthy lifestyle, though we recommend that you work on reducing both. However, in case you cannot find yourself reducing your stress, it is time for using this anti aging cream that illuminates the under eye area and reduces appearance of dark circles.

3. Himalaya Herbals Under Eye Cream: If you are among those who prefer using herbal and ayurvedic formulations, this cream from Himalaya is your best bet. It contains a blend of herbal ingredients that treats pigmentation and blemishes in the under eye area. It also has SPF which prevents sun damage to the sensitive skin under your eyes.

4. VLCC Almond Under Eye Cream: VLCC has many great cosmetic products and the almond under eye cream is just one of the many. The cream contains many active agents, including wheatgerm, almond and olive oil. It effectively moisturizes, firms and tones the skin under your eyes, brightening it and reducing appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles.

5. The Nature’s Co White Rose Under Eye Gel: Another natural product range, the Nature’s Co picks up the most delectable of natural ingredients and presents it to you in a way they could benefit you best. This products is known to improve blood circulation to the eyes, improving skin tone and color naturally.

6. Just Herbs I’Clear Green Tea-Cucumber Nourishing Under Eye Gel:Another herbal formulation, this product boasts of the soothing and rejuvenating extracts of green tea and cucumber. Both these ingredients are considered excellent for the delicate skin around the eyes. They offer a soothing sensation which takes off years from the area, diminishing puffiness and fine lines and tightening the skin.

7. Soul Tree Green Tea Under Eye Cream: This herbal product uses the extracts of green tea for improved appearance of the under eye area. It contains a nourishing combination of tulsi, green tea and aloe vera extracts, making it a potent solution for all your under eye skin problems.

8. Tvam – Olive and Soya Under Eye Cream: Tvam is a range of herbal products gaining a lot of popularity. If you have never tried this brand before, it is time to give it a go. This olive and soya under eye cream from Tvam is an absolutely miraculous formulation. It uses a mix of almond oil, aloe vera gel and olive oil for deep nourishing of the under eye area and complete rejuvenation of the skin.

Anyone could suffer from ugly stretch marks. Whether you are skinny or fat, pregnant or not; stretch marks can rear their ugly head anytime you lose or gain weight from any part of your body. They are caused by tearing of the dermis layer of your skin, and though they may light down on their own in some time, they never really disappear. You can diminish their presence by using specially formulated skin creams that penetrate the inner layers of your skin and repair the dermis. Here are some of the most popular stretch marks removal creams available in the Indian markets:

1. RevAyur Stretch Mark Cream: This herbal formulation from Ayur herbals, smoothens and tones skin, repairs broken collagen and fades away stretch marks without causing any allergies, pigmentation or irritation on your skin. A 75g pack is available for Rs. 210.

2. Palmer’s Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks: Palmer’s has long been creating innovative products for care of pregnant women. The formulation contains cocoa butter, shea butter and vitamin E for soothing the broken collagen and repairing it. A 250 ml bottle is available for Rs. 425.

3. Mederma Skin Care for Scars: Mederma is a medically formulated ointment for treating a variety of scars and blemishes. Whether it is burn scars or stretch marks, regular application of Mederma will help you get rid of all kinds of scars, marks and blemishes. A 10g tube is priced at Rs. 363.

4. Chicco Intensive Anti-stretch Marks Serum: When it comes to the care of mothers and babies, internationally acclaimed brand Chicco has many takers. This intensive anti stretch mark serum comes with a pump and can be used anywhere on your body. It has pure vitamin E oil and is completely safe for use even during pregnancy. A light massage with this oil will not only help prevent stretch marks, but will also fade any existing marks on your body. A 50 ml bottle is available at Rs. 999.

5. Aloe Veda Distil Cold-Pressed Hexane Free Castor Oil: This essential oil from Aloe Veda can be used at bath time. Though this is not specially formulated or marketed as an anti stretch mark product, it nourishes your body deeply and penetrates the inner layers to repair collagen and dermis. A 200 ml bottle is priced at Rs. 225.

6.  Biotique Bio Coco Butter Cream: This intensive hydrating cream is also designed to penetrate the inner layers of your skin and repair the broken dermis that appears as stretch marks on the upper layers. The herbal formulation has coco butter and vitamin E as its primary ingredients. A 55g tub is available for Rs. 180.

7.  Pigeon Body and Stretch Mark Cream: Another mother and baby care product range, Pigeon offers a anti stretch mark cream with jojoba oil, olive oil and many other natural ingredients. A 100g tube is priced at Rs. 1150.

8.  Mothercare Bump And Beyond Smoothing Out Stretch Mark Cream: The Mothercare Bump and Beyond Cream is another mild, allergen free cream by the UK brand Mothercare. This cream is formulated for expecting mothers, who want to take care of stretch marks and prevent them altogether. A 200 ml bottle is priced at Rs. 549.

9.      Farlin – Mother Skin Care Firming Serum For Whole Body: This is another great product for pregnant women. This lotion firms the skin and strengthens both collagen and dermis to prevent breakage and appearance of stretch marks on the skin. This bottle is also available with a cream pump and a 150 ml bottle is available for Rs. 2195.

10.  Vita – Age Mamma Stretch Mark Cream: A mild cream formulation from Vita Age, this cream has astonishing skin enhancing properties, which makes it an excellent product for women looking to prevent or fade stretch marks. A 200 ml tube of this cream is available for Rs. 1275.

‘Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder’… but in most Asian nations, there is an undeclared inclination towards whiter and fairer complexion. According to surveys and studies, it is observed that the skin color in Asian countries mostly vary between light brownish to dark shades. Desiring for whiter complexion is therefore a common wish among women of these nations who largely opt for different cosmetic products and treatments to get a lighter skin tone.

There are several prominent causes that are strongly associated with the variation in skin color of every individual. Below we have discussed some of these to give you an enhanced idea:

The skin tone of a person primarily varies based on genetic factors, i.e. parent’s skin color. Medical studies also state that melanin and hormonal changes are also crucial factors in darker shades of skin.

Sometimes, the skin pigmentation is also affected due to medical reasons such as side effects of pills and disorders.

Skin color also changes to darker shades due to over exposure to sun UV rays.

Skin color is also determined based on the lifestyle and food habits of an individual. Eating healthy helps keep the body toxin free, thus giving you a glowing and fairer skin tone.

Too much usage of cosmetic products also affects skin color.

Instead of going for chemical treatments and costly parlor sessions, you can easily get fair skin with help of some easy home remedies. With some common daily use items, know how you can make brighten your skin in an effortless manner.

1. Yogurt and milk: The most effective yet easy solution to get fairer skin shade is usage of yogurt and milk on your face regularly. Beat yogurt and mix little milk to it to make a firm paste. Apply it thoroughly and wash off with clean water after 20-25 minutes. Within few days, you will surely get to watch the difference in your skin color.

2. Besan: Gram flour or besan is another excellent item to try out for skin lightening purpose. Having various color lightening properties, besan is a widely used home remedy for oily skin problem. Make a pack with besan, rose water and honey and apply it regularly to make your skin appear vibrant and grease free.

3. Lemon: Having high content of Vitamin C and antioxidant properties, lemon is popularly known as a natural bleaching agent that can remove marks and skin tone in an effective manner. Squeeze some lemon juice in a bowl and apply it on your face with help of a cotton ball. You will definitely find some changes in your skin shade within some days.

4. Aloe vera: The miracle plant that is loaded with multiple benefits can also help you in skin whitening purpose. Aloe vera gel prevents hyper pigmentation and removes the dead cells on skin, thus helping in retaining the original skin color. Apply the gel of aloe vera plant evenly on your skin and allow it to dry for half an hour. Wash off to get smooth and glowing skin; regularly usage is suggested for maximum benefit.

Apart from the above stated home remedies for skin whitening, there are more ingredients that you can equally try out such as orange juice, honey, turmeric powder and more.