If there is one thing I have learned about taking care of my skin, it's to always wear sunscreen! Turning 30 has come with its own set of self-care duties and wearing sunscreen 'daily' tops my list. It doesn’t matter if I step outside of the house or not on a clear, sunny day, I ensure to apply my sunscreen on overcast days, on days while I am riding an uber or even when I am simply working from home. Like many of my readers, I too have tried as many sunscreens in the past only to discontinue using them for either breaking out on my skin or making my face look drenched in oil, to say the least. However, my hunt for a sunscreen that truly felt like a second skin while protecting it came to an end when I stumbled upon Dermafique's Soleil Defense range!

Sunscreen is an essential step that helps keep our skin protected from harmful rays and also prevents premature signs of ageing in the skin. While there is an overwhelming number of sunscreens available in the market, it is imperative to understand why we need suncare protection on a broader spectrum. When it comes to suncare, protection from UV rays is not sufficient. UV rays make up only 5% of the total solar spectrum. Even though UV rays cause skin damage like tanning and photo-ageing (premature ageing of the skin), the sun’s spectrum majorly comprises IR (45%) and Visible light (50%) that can harm our skin at a cellular level. This is why I trust Dermafique's Suncare system that is powered by the revolutionary Full Light Technology that targets 360° Sun Spectrum to shield the skin from the solar aggression of Visible light, Infrared, UVA and UVB. 

Protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays should be a year-round thing and that's why you should consider investing in the right products for long term benefits. Dermafique's Soleil defence range comes with two formulations to suit your customised skin concerns. 

Dermafique Soleil Defense (all matte), is a fragrance-free sun protection formula that protects skin from harmful effects of the Full Sun Spectrum. Soleil Defense (All Matte) is powered by revolutionary Full Light Technology that not only protects the skin from the entire Sun Spectrum with RSF 90, PA++ but also comes with SPF 50. It’s a great bet for people with Normal to oily skin type as it is an oil-in-water emulsion that imparts a light sensorial. Since it comes with a non-oily and a non-patchy formula, wearing it feels like a second skin even during humid/tropical seasons. With a fragrance-free formula, the 90 gm bottle of Dermafique Soleil Defense (All Matte) is priced at INR 979. You can shop this product online here. 

The other variant is Soleil Defense (gel crème) and is a must-have for those who are looking for a gel-based sun protection formula. This one also targets 360° Sun Spectrum and shields skin from the solar aggression of Visible Light + Infrared (IR) + UVA + UVB. Powered by the revolutionary Full Light* Technology that targets 360° Sun Spectrum, it comes with SPF 30 and PA++. I love its lightweight texture and recommend it for protection against persistent pigmentation. Since it's a gel-based formula, you will feel incredibly comfortable wearing it even on a tropical day. Works best on all skin types. The 50 gm bottle of Soleil Defense (Gel Creme) is priced at INR 749. You can shop this product online here. 

Even though your trips to the grocery store may be the only stepping out you could be doing nowadays, make sure to always wear your sunscreen. The Dermafique Soleil Defense range is dermatologically tested and needless to say, these sunscreens check all the boxes. I would love for you to definitely try these out this extended summer (and beyond).

India is long known for its traditional and natural means of beauty rituals worldwide that consist of age-old secrets of Ayurvedic science. Hair oils have been used since just about the beginning of time — and with good reason. The natural and organic herbs that are widely used in Ayurveda not only contain great healing powers, but using them the right way can help you in making the locks long, lustrous, and healthy. Very few brands understand the importance of natural herbs in hair oils and have products that can actually help you transform your dry, brittle locks into long, healthier hair while sitting in the comfort of your home. Before buying a good herbal hair oil, one needs to have an understanding of their hair type and then focus on developing a regular hair care routine. Hair oiling plays a very important role in maintaining healthy, glossy and voluminous hair for life and hence should be a part of your at-home hair rituals. Consistent Oiling helps in maintaining scalp oil and also acts as a natural conditioner for the hair. Read on for the 7 Best Herbal Hair Oils in India that will ensure healthier, shinier, softer hair every single time.

1. Kama Ayurveda Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment

Kama Ayurveda Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil helps to fight against hair issues like dandruff, hair fall and premature greying. It helps in achieving glossy, healthy hair as it contains powerful herbs like Indigo, Bhringraj, Sesame seeds and Gooseberry which function as a natural conditioner for the hair. It has a very earthy scent which has a soothing effect that helps calm the nerves and boost the aura. Massage twice a week for shiny, healthy locks. It is 100% natural.

2. Mother Sparsh 30 Herb Hair Oil

Mother Sparsh 30 Herb Hair Oil is a nutritive blend of 30 Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi, Bhringraj, Jatamansi, Mulethi, Alsi, Harad which act as hair vitalizer while working on enhancing hair density & stimulating hair growth. This oil will help add life to dull, dehydrated and brittle hair and it also helps in lessening hair fall, split ends and hair breakage thereby making the hair healthier, voluminous, and luminescent. It has Alsi which has omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins B1 & E that help balances the pH of the scalp. Bhringraj is a hair vitalizer which strengthens the hair follicles and stimulates blood flow in the scalp which expedites hair growth. It also has the goodness of Curry Leaves which contains antioxidant & antibacterial properties, that further helps in reducing follicular damage. It also has Jatamansi that helps fight free radicals & revive hair from surface and thermal damage leading to a reduction in hair loss. It is cruelty-free & free from harsh chemicals like SLS, Sulphates, parabens, silicone etc. Regular hair massage can help build Follicular Strength leading to thicker and more voluminous hair. It is suitable For All Hair textures including coloured or treated hair. Massage it regularly and for better absorption, leave overnight or wrap in a hot towel for thirty minutes.

3. Kesh King Scalp and Medicine Ayurvedic Oil 

Kesh King Ayurvedic oil is 100% natural made with the goodness of 21 herbs using Mantras that help make it more effective and beneficial for use. It has herbs like Bhringraj, Amla, Tulsi, and Haritaki which are boiled in sesame oil using Tel Pak Vidhi for long hours which help in maximum absorption of the qualities of all the herbs. This oil helps in aiding hair growth by reducing hair fall and preventing premature greying, dandruff, and split ends. It penetrates deep into the hair shaft and repairs the follicles. This is a one-stop solution to all hair related woes and has a very pleasant fragrance. It has the certification of the International Hair Institute and is clinically proven to have antiseptic values that help reduce hair growth and reduction in hair fall. 

4. Forest Essentials Ayurvedic Herb Enriched Head Massage Oil

Forest Essential luxurious Ayurvedic oil contains the finest quality herbs like Bhringraj, brahmi, henna, lodhra, and anantmool. These ingredients have very nourishing properties that stop hair loss, promote healthy and new hair growth thereby improving the overall texture of the hair and scalp and making the hair voluminous. It also consists of vital fatty acids and Vitamins that help give nourishment and life to dull and damaged hair. It helps to add shine to damaged hair and acts as a natural hair colour. Bhringraj in the oil helps combats Hair fall, provides nourishment, and restores volume. The Virgin Coconut oil in the concoction provides moisture to the scalp and it also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Black Sesame oil as an ingredient provides nourishment to the hair. This oil is prepared using an ancient ayurvedic recipe that infuses goodness of Virgin Coconut Oil, Black sesame, and Goat’s Milk along with vital herbs. Using this oil relaxes the mind and relieves headaches and sleeplessness. It is Chemical, Paraben and Petrochemical free.

5. Khadi Natural Bhringraj Herbal Hair Oil

Khadi products have been known to be handmade by people living in villages across India. It is a true product of the soil. This herbal Ayurvedic hair oil contains the goodness of almond oil which is infused with a wide variety of herbs. It has Light Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil), Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba), Amla Ext (Emblica Officinalis), Sesame Oil (Sesamum Indicum) which provides elevated levels of vitamins E, D, and A that help provides moisture and strength to the hair. This oil helps fights scalp inflammation and infections. It also provides moisture, encourages new hair growth, prevents premature greying and dandruff. It is suitable for all hair types. This oil must be massaged into the scalp in a circular motion for even application and absorption. It should be left for a minimum of 1 hour before washing but keeping it overnight makes it even more beneficial. 

6. Parachute Advanced Ayurvedic Gold Hair Oil

Parachute Advanced Ayurvedic Gold Hair Oil contains the goodness of herbs like amla, henna, aloe vera, methi, and nagarmotha infused with Coconut oil ensuring effective hair fall control as well as deep nourishment to the hair roots. This herb oil is prepared by traditional Tel Pak Vidhi in the herbs are taken in measured proportions and boiled in water in conventional vessels for long hours to extract the nutrients from the herbs which make the oil efficient. These ingredients help in rejuvenating the hair by increasing hair growth and making it thick and voluminous within a couple of weeks. It helps in improving blood circulation to the hair follicles thereby preventing dryness of the scalp and premature greying. It also helps get rid of dandruff and improves the overall hair texture making it shiny and glossy. It is suitable for All hair Types and claims to reduce hair fall in 15 days’ time making it long, thick, and healthy. This oil needs to be massaged into the hair roots and scalp. It must be left 30-45 minutes, then to be washed off with shampoo. 

7. Biotique Bio Bhringraj Therapeutic Oil

Biotique Bio Bhringraj Therapeutic Ayurvedic oil contains the goodness of pure botanical extracts of Bhringraj, Mulethi, Amla, Brahmi, and Butea frondosa. These herbs are infused with coconut oil along with goat milk which helps in the treatment of alopecia. This oil has a lightweight formula with a pleasant fragrance that nourishes the scalp and the roots of the hair to promote healthy hair growth and reduce hair fall and greying of the Hair. Usage of this oil helps in providing strong and glossy by making the scalp feeling clean, dandruff free, moisturised and repaired. It also helps lessen greying of the hair. It is alcohol, cruelty-free. It also does not contain any Parabens or sulphates. It is made with 100% natural ingredients. It should be applied liberally to the scalp by massaging gently with circular motions. It should be left on for at least half an hour before rinsing with water. It needs to be applied consistently for a long duration to be able to see results.

My final verdict!

Herbal hair-oiling regularly will not improve the texture of your hair but it will also aid in self-care practice to nurture yourself in these quarantine times. I personally love to massage my scalp with Mother Sparsh 30 herb hair oil twice a week for best results.  The "champi" using this hair oil helps boost blood circulation, aid in hair growth and also helps me relax after a long working day at home. Shop for my favourite hair oil on Mother's Sparsh website here. 

Stress, disrupted sleeping patterns and extended periods indoors during the COVID times have led to some grave effects on our skin health making it dull and lifeless. Our lifestyle along with our not-so-healthy food habits also affect the overall appearance of our skin thereby it has become all the more crucial to look after and pamper our skin with the right kind of products in our everyday life. The most significant step towards that direction is to choose your basics right, starting with a daily face wash. A good quality, chemical-free face wash which is also organic in nature can help you build your skincare routine effortlessly. Not only does it help in setting the tone of your day right, but it also helps you in addressing your skincare concerns such as dryness, dull texture and lack of hydration. So while you may be confused with the numerous varieties of face wash that are available in the market, I have listed down my tried and tested products that will help you zero on the right kind of face wash suitable for your skin type and needs.

1. Mother Sparsh Plant-Powered* Ultra-Rich Face Wash

This all-natural plant-based facewash tops our list of must-haves in your beauty regimen. It is a vitamin-rich Face wash that is a blend of unique components like Earth Mineral Oil, Vanilla Oil, Tejpatra Oil that aids to provide nutrient-rich balanced hydration to the skin making it nourished and imparting youthful radiance.

Lastly, it has Pudina which acts as a coolant and keeps the moisture of the skin intact. It has all the qualities one looks for in a face wash. It is 100% natural, it boosts hydration, clears toxins, it remineralises and nourishes the skin. Above all, it is suitable for ALL skin types. Priced at INR 349, this is an absolute value for money!

2. Plum Skin Revival Face Wash, Chamomile and White Tea

 3. WOW Skin Science Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash 

This Apple Cider Vinegar Face Wash is enriched with Certified Organic Himalayan Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera extract, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamins B5 & E. It has a built-in silicon bristle foaming face brush which boosts blood circulation and makes cleansing the face an extremely easy task daily. It helps in intense cleansing and purifying of the pores by getting rid of the impurities thereby keeping the skin radiant, clean, and youthful. It has Apple cider vinegar which helps unblock the pores, absorb excess oil, remove dead skin cells, and exfoliate the skin thereby helping to reduce blackheads and acne. It also reduces hyperpigmentation and helps maintain the skin’s pH. It is also Paraben, sulphate, and silicone-free. It suits all skin types.

4. Aroma Magic Grapefruit Face Wash

The Aroma magic face wash is a soap-free product with a gel-like consistency that contains essential extracts of Grapefruit, Lemon and Aloe vera along with essential oils of Palmarosa, and Neroli. It also contains extracts of grapefruit, lemon, and aloe vera which helps in lightening and cleaning the skin. This Vit C and Beta carotene helps clean and reduce the pore size by tightening the pores and the Palmarosa and Neroli essential oils help bring a glow to the skin by mattifying and revitalising the skin. It is suitable for Normal to oily, acne-prone skin. It is free of paraben, alcohol, artificial fragrances, and colours.

5. Mamaearth Vitamin C Foaming Face Wash with Vitamin C & Turmeric  

Mama earth face wash is infused with the extracts of Turmeric, Vitamin C, aloe Vera, Cucumber and is loaded with antioxidants that help in preventing acne, keeps the pores clean and leaves a brightening glow on the face. It has a built-in brush that massages the skin alongside cleansing. The Vit C in the face wash helps to reduce uneven skin tone by removing dark spots. Turmeric helps reduce ageing of the skin, wrinkles, and makes skin look youthful and radiant. The Cucumber and Aloe Vera soothes, hydrates the skin and boosts blood flow in the skin. The face wash helps reduce and clear excessive oil formation on the face. It's mild on the skin and maintains the pH level of the facial skin. It is suitable for all skin types. It is free of Parabens, Mineral Oils and toxins. It is also dermatologically tested and is cruelty-free.

6. Khadi Natural Orange & Lemongrass Herbal Face Wash

Khadi Herbal face wash is enriched with herbal formulas like Orange oil, Lemongrass oil, Lemon oil, and Cucumber extracts which makes it great for skin hydration and nourishment leading to a smooth, radiant, and even tone. Orange essential oil helps increase blood flow and smoothens the texture of the skin which further helps reducing skin inflammations and acne. Lemon Grass oil helps reduce acne scars and unclogs the pores. It also helps in brightening the skin tone. Lemon oil helps exfoliate dead skin cells and provides Vit C and antioxidants to the skin. Finally, Cucumber extracts help get rid of excessive oil and also helps in firming and tightening the facial skin. The usage of this face wash leads to tightening of pores and helps remove oils, impurities from the skin leading to clear, glowing, soft, and youthful skin. It is made with pure ingredients and is SLS & Paraben Free with no chemicals, artificial colour, and preservatives.

7. Himalaya Herbal Neem Face Wash 

Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash is enriched with a herbal formula that helps unclog pores, remove impurities and excess oil from the face. It helps reduce chances of acne as it contains the goodness of Neem which has antibacterial properties which help to combat acne and infection. Turmeric is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and helps heal and soothe the skin from damage due to pollution, sun damage and evens out skin tone. It helps in getting soft, supple clear glowing skin. It is suitable for all skin types but is best for acne-prone skin.

The Mother Sparsh Plant-Powered* Ultra-Rich Face Wash comes with such rich ingredients that is essential for our skin's daily care and hydration. If you are beginning to develop a skin regime or are yet to include a plant-based face wash into your beauty ritual then ensure to opt for this face wash that will not only preserve your skin's moisture barrier but also cleanse it with utmost nourishment. I love to use it for it leaves me with radiant looking, fresh and supple skin. You can shop for my favourite face wash here.