Viveks Giant Warehouse Sale Chennai - A Sale you should not miss

Though there are so many retailers operating in Tamil Nadu, only very few are close to the heart of Tamilians. Viveks is one such retailer who has been in the market and heart of the people for over 50 years. Viveks is close to my heart as well. When I got my first salary, I bought a Canon digital camera from Viveks, T.Nagar branch. I went to several shops. Since it was my first hard-earned money, I wanted to save every penny as much as possible. After comparing prices in several shops, I bought it in Viveks at lower price with few freebies as well.


Viveks Giant Warehouse Wholesale Chennai


Viveks is currently running a sale called Viveks Giant Warehouse Sale in which you can buy even a single product in wholesale price. Wholesale price is applicable on most of the products. I was invited to visit their warehouse as part of a Bloggers Meet.

We had a chance to meet the CEO Mr.Srinivasan with whom a 30 minutes session was scheduled initially. He ended up spending more than 2 hours interacting with us. He is a very down-to-earth person. We have discussed several things about Viveks Giant Warehouse Sale.


Viveks Chennai

Viveks Giant Warehouse Sale - When and Where?


DATE:  25th March – 27th March

TIMING:  10.00 am – 9.00 pm

VENUE: 

Viveks Manapakkam Warehouse,
2/850, Mugulivakkam Main Road,
Manapakkam,
Chennai 600125. (Behind DLF)

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Apple Custard Pudding Recipe

Apple Custard Pudding Recipe:

Apple Custard Pudding is my 9th recipe in the series of Healthy Kids Snacks Recipes Ideas. This is the first recipe that is exclusively written for this summer. Be it adult or kid, who does not want a chilled dessert as evening snacks? Desserts do not need to be junk always. You can make delicious desserts without compromising the health factor. In fact, you can add some healthy ingredients to make the desserts be more healthy. I have already posted recipe for Eggless Apple Pudding without sugar. This is another pudding recipe with delicious apple and vanilla custard powder.



I got delicious Washington Apples as a Holi gift. As soon as I received the parcel, I wanted to make something sweet very quickly. Being in the kitchen for a long time during summer is not so pleasing. I was having a pack of vanilla custard powder lying on a shelf for quite some time. Initially, I wanted to bake something. But I did not want to make the job a tedious one. So, I decided to make apple custard pudding. Only planning took me a lot of time as I desperately wanted to reduce the cooking time. Cooking took only 15 minutes of my time. But the dessert came out very good.

Apple Custard Pudding 

There are 4 important points you have to keep in mind if you do not want to fail in your attempt.

1) Choose fresh and sweet apples.
2) Do not cook apples for more time as they might turn bitter in taste.
3) When you mix the custard powder with the milk, make sure that the mixture does not have any lumps. Just mix it thorougly. The same is applicable when you mix it with boiling milk.
4) The sugar measurement is approximate. I have given the measurement which I have used. Feel free to adjust accordingly. Taste the custard mixture and adjust sugar as soon as you have mixed the custard mixture with the boiling milk.

Let us now see how to make delicious apple custard pudding recipe.

Apple Custard Pudding Recipe


Apple Custard Pudding Recipe Learn how to make healthy and tasty Apple custard pudding recipe.
Cuisine: Indian Category: Dessert Serves: 2-3
Prep Time: Cook Time: Total Time:








Ingredients
  • Apple - 1
  • Sugar - 1 tbsp + 25 grams
  • Honey - 1 tbsp(optional)
  • Vanilla Custard Powder - 2 tbsp
  • Boiled Milk -  225 ml approx
  • Badam - 3 to garnish(optional)
 
Instructions
  1. Cut apple into small slices. Transfer it to a pan. Add 1 tbsp water to the apple. Heat the pan. The apple and sugar start releasing juice very soon. Switch off the stove and allow it to cool down. You can add honey and mix if you like after cooling down.
  2. Mix 2 tbsp vanilla custard powder with 25 ml milk. Mix thoroughly and make sure that there are no lumps.
  3. Boil 200 ml milk in the pan. Add 25 grams sugar to the milk. When the milk becomes hot, add the vanilla custard mixture to the pan. Mix continuously. Taste sugar and adjust if required. Switch off the stove once the mixture comes to pouring consistency. Allow the mixture to cool down.
  4. Take a bowl or serving glasses. If you are going to serve in shot glasses or bowls, you can transfer accordingly now itself. Place apple slices in the bottom.
  5. Pour the vanilla custard mixture on top of the apples. Grate badam and spread it on top of the vanilla custard mixture. Keep in refrigerator and serve chilled.


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Wheat Bread Cutlet Recipe - Easy Whole Wheat Carrot Bread Cutlet Recipe

Wheat Bread Cutlet Recipe - Easy Whole Wheat Carrot Bread Cutlet Recipe:

This is a very simple yet healthy recipe that can be made in just 15 minutes. I was planning to make cutlets for my kid one fine evening. When I was about to make, I realised that potato was not there. I rarely think making cutlets without potato. Potato gives a nice taste and helps us to make soft cutlets. Sadly, it was not there. I was running out of time and expected my kid to wake up anytime.

This is 7th recipe in Healthy After School Snacks Idea for kids series. View the other recipes in the series here - simple snack recipes.


Wheat Bread Cutlet Recipe


When I had a sneak-peak inside my fridge, I found out the bread packet lying with just 4 slices. I suddenly got an idea of making bread cutlets. I had only 1 carrot in stock. I was afraid whether the cutlet will be having the taste of the bread predominantly. I did not want in that way. I also wanted to make it very quickly.

Cutlet recipe for kids

With a lot of hesitation, I went ahead and made the cutlets by grinding bread slices, onion and carrot and the result was awesome.

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Fab Bag March 2016 Review

FAB Bag continues to deliver a real fabulous bag loaded with best beauty and makeup products once a month. I received March 2016 FAB Bag as sample for me to try. The theme of the March 2016 FAB Bag is "More Power To You". Fab bag of this month comes in a sparkling silver color bag which I have already started taking outside. I am owning same type of bag in gold color which I received some time back.

Let us take a sneak-peak into my March 2016 FAB Bag now.



March 2016 FAB BAG Products:


Votre Face Serum:

This serum is aqua rich revitalizing one. It is enriched with virgin cold pressed oils, herbal blends, and innovative molecules that promise to brighten the complexing and reducing fine lines. This is one of the best products in the Fab Bag. I started using it just 4 days back and I can already see a visible difference. My skin is glowing and feeling fresh. As this is a 100% botanical product, I do not mind using it forever. A very small amount of serum is enough to cover your face.

Votre is India's patented Bio-Cosmetic brand that offers 100% botanical, vegan and cruelty-free products.

Price: Rs.1,670 for 12 ml.

Nykaa Nail Color:

I have received 5 ml bottle of 'Strawberries n Cream' shade. Gone are the days when I was sticking only to pink color. I love this nail color. It is pleasant and not gaudy. The nail color is very smooth and easy to apply.

Price - Rs.149 for 10 ml.



Wella Professionals - Elements Renewing Mask and Shampoo:

With Wella, you can expect professional quality. The shampoo is really gentle on hair. The mask has to be used after shampooing your hair. You have to leave it for 5 minutes before rinsing out. Both the shampoo and mask have no sulfates and parabens. The products are from Wella Professional scientists. It is developed with NUTREE complex enriched with natural tree extract to help protect against keratin degeneration.

Price for Wella Renewing Mask is Rs.200 for 30 ml.
Price for Wella Renewing Shampoo is Rs.475 for 30 ml.

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How to Remove Whiteheads | Get Rid of Whiteheads on face, nose, chin

How to Remove Whiteheads | Get Rid of Whiteheads on face, nose, chin?

Be it blackhead or whitehead, both are good enough to irritate us. When your hair follicle is clogged, you get a condition called Comedo. If it is open, it is called as a blackhead. If it is closed, you have whiteheads. Many women make one mistake when it comes to treating whiteheads that complicate the problem further. They try to squeeze it which is the simplest way to remove whiteheads. And it is the worst treatment for whiteheads. Skin damage is the result of squeezing whitehead. The infection might spread and be pushed into the skin deeply. There are Comedo extractors available in beauty parlors but it comes at a cost.

This article will help you to find out the home remedies to treat whiteheads from the comfort of your home in an inexpensive way. When these are natural remedies, there is no need to have a second thought to try and remove your whiteheads at home naturally fast. Before seeing how to get rid of whiteheads, let us see what are whiteheads exactly.

How to remove whiteheads naturally get rid of

What are Whiteheads?

Whiteheads are a type of acne that looks like a small, round and white bumps. It usually occurs when the pore is clogged. Mostly it happens due to dead skin cells and oil secretions. They are scientifically  called as the closed comedones.

The Whiteheads that are visible on the face have different names. A white pimple or whitehead is generally called as acne. It indicates the manifestation of acne formation. Acne, depending upon the severity it turns into, after formation of whiteheads may be called acne vulgaris or more scientifically as the closed comedones. Acne being a polymorphic condition is prominently found to occur on the face and is more persistent in women than men.

There are different types of acne caused due to many factors. Whiteheads are primarily caused due to bacteria and sebum deposit inside the skin pores. They resemble a concise milk drop and are visible on the face of a person. They are prominently found to occur on cheeks and nose. The oily parts in a face are prone to whiteheads.

It is known to affect the age group of 14 years to 19 years and is triggered due to adolescence. The hormone induced acne usually clears on its own accord by the mid-twenties. Acne vulgaris is known to affect 95% of the adolescent boys and 83% of the adolescent girls.

It is observed that acne affects 8 percent of the population, belonging to the age group of 25 to 34 years, and 3 percent of the population aged between 30 to 44 years old. The primary reason for the occurrence of whiteheads is bacteria clogging, and populating inside the sweat pores.

What are the Visible symptoms of Whiteheads?


Visible symptoms include the clear formation of small white bumps which are closed under the thin layer of skin. The appearance resembles a concise milk drop.

The area surrounding the milk drop may sometimes become red and swollen. The swelling is termed scientifically as papules.

When the swelling is filled with pus, they are called pustules. The whiteheads upon opening forcefully are known to cause scarring.


What causes Acne Vulgaris and Whiteheads?


There are many factors that encourage bacterial growth, which is a primary reason for acne or whitehead eruptions. The factors causing the acne eruptions can be broadly classified into, pathophysiological factors and general factors.

Some Pathophysiological factors include High sebum secretion which is one of the main causes of acne vulgaris. Bacterial proliferation is another important cause of acne or whiteheads. This type of acne is mild in nature, with visible comedones that are void of inflammation.

There are some general factors that can cause whiteheads. In girls and women, puberty and menstrual cycle or hormone induced acne eruption (for women going through pregnancy or menopause ) is a common causing factor for whiteheads.

Use of birth control pills may sometimes trigger a mild form of acne eruptions or whitehead formations.

Use of oily makeup which encourages the growth of bacteria by blocking the sweat pores is another cause of whiteheads.

Excessive sweating, exposure to hot or humid climate, may clog the sweat pores and promote bacterial growth.


Home remedies to treat whiteheads - How to get rid of whiteheads naturally at home? How to remove whiteheads on Face, Nose and Chin?

Whiteheads are very mild in nature and resolve with time when there are no physical factors deteriorating them. For example, opening the pores forcefully to release the milk may cause a pus filled form of acne and scarring. There are many over-the-counter topical applicants consisting of tretinoin or azelaic acid. But, it is safer to treat whiteheads with a more natural treatment.

There are few home remedies which are helpful in relieving the skin irritation present in the comedonal area.

Please note that if the condition is severe, you have to consult a dermatologist.

Honey for whiteheads treatment:


Honey is known to consist of abundant antioxidants due to the presence of flavonoids. Further, it is known to consist of acetic, acid, citric acid, gluconic acid, pyroglutamic acid, malic acid, lactic acid and few other acids which help treat mild to severe forms of acne and pimples.

It has astringent properties which unclog the pores and help clear the bacteria populace. Honey is known to exhibit antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cleansing, moisturizing properties to name a few.

How to use honey to remove whiteheads?

Applying honey over the affected area regularly, and cleaning with cold water helps clear the bacteria and whitehead naturally.


Tea tree oil for whiteheads removal:

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial action against bacteria and preservative action towards skin microbes. It is also known to exhibit anti-inflammatory property which helps overcome the irritation or inflammation present in worsened whitehead eruptions.

How to use tea tree oil to remove whiteheads?

One can apply tea tree oil by diluting it with aloe vera gel or water. For one part of tea tree oil, nine parts of gel or water are required. This diluted solution must be applied by making use of cotton, after cleaning the face with a mild form of cleanser. The results are encouraging when one lets the oil dry over the infected area.

While choosing skin care products, you can give preference for the skin care products which have tea tree oil as one of the key ingredients.

If you find any irritation or negative reactions, stop using the tea tree oil completely. Some people with skin diseases might be allergic to tea tree oil. For example, people with eczema might find tea tree oil to be irritating.

Turmeric to get rid of whiteheads naturally:

Turmeric is known to consist of an active component named curcumin, which gives turmeric its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. Both intake and external application of turmeric are helpful to treat whiteheads naturally.  Regular application of turmeric helps to keep whiteheads and similar skin problems at bay. That is why our ancestors have been sticking to daily application of turmeric while bathing.

Pregnant women should not consume turmeric in excess amounts, but can apply it topically to get relief from inflammation in the whiteheads. Consumption of turmeric helps heal the wound or scarring.

How to use turmeric to remove whiteheads?

Just make a paste of turmeric and water. Apply it directly on whiteheads. You can apply twice a day till you get rid of whiteheads.

Turmeric, when, mixed with water or honey becomes a potent topical medicine, to fight against whiteheads and pimples. The consistency of the mixture should resemble a thick paste which is easily applied to the face, as a face mask.

Alternately, sandalwood and turmeric can be mixed in the form of paste and applied to the affected area for immediate relief from itching and irritation.


Garlic to remove whiteheads on face, nose and chin:

Garlic has been a trusted home remedy to remove white heads on face, nose and chin. Its antibacterial property helps to remove the whiteheads easily. Garlic has antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties. Allicin on decomposition results in sulfenic acid which is an antioxidant that act against the free radicals that damage the skin. A natural drying agent that dries out the acne and removes them from the skin. It contains sulphur compounds such as Thiacremonon removes the excess oil from the skin.

How to Use Garlic to get rid of whiteheads on face, nose and chin?

An effective mask can be made by crushing 6 to 7 garlic cloves, a few tsp of honey along with a pinch of turmeric. Apply onto the problem area of your skin. Rinse with water after some time.

Neem for whiteheads treatment:

Neem has an excellent antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties that are extremely effective against whiteheads and other skin problems. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and these neutralise the free radicals that affect the skin. It purifies the blood, rejuvenates and repairs the affected skin.

How to Use Neem to get rid of whiteheads on face, nose and chin?

A basic neem face pack can be made by just crushing neem leaves with the help of water. Apply this neem paste on the whiteheads and leave it for 20 minutes. Clean with water and pat dry the face.

You can try out an effective mask with neem and multani mitti. First, dry the neem leaves in the sun till they are completely dry and crisp. Grind it to a smooth powder and add 1 tsp of multani mitti. Make a smooth paste by adding a few drops of rose water. Add the pack onto the area with pimples and allow it to dry for 20 minutes. Wash with water.

Lemon Juice to get rid of whiteheads on face:

Lemon juice is one of the easiest home remedies to remove whiteheads naturally. But the sad news is, it might not be a safe bet for everyone. Skin of some people might be allergic to lemon juice and they should not use it. Otherwise, you will get more pimples and irritations. If you are not allergic to lemon juice, then you are free to reap the benefits of lemon juice to remove pimples.

Lemon juice contains citric acid that helps to exfoliate the skin cells and flushes out the impurities from the skin. Also, the acid has astringent properties that push out the excess oil from your skin.
Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and other essential antibacterial ingredients.

How to Use lemon juice to get rid of whiteheads on face, nose and chin?

Dilute lemon juice with water. Dip a cotton ball in lemon juice and apply onto your whitehead. Let it act overnight. I always dilute lemon juice with water before applying directly onto the skin. If you are used to applying lemon juice directly on the skin, you can try that too.

A simple mask can be made with a combination of lemon juice with honey or water. Apply this mask on the affected area and wash after 20 minutes. You can also add turmeric powder too. To make a thick face mask, add besan flour if your desire.

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Homemade Kinder Joy Recipe

Homemade Kinder Joy Recipe:

I have tried my best to make a dessert similar to Kinder Joy. Though I have not followed the exact ingredients of Kinder Joy, I tried my best to mimic it at least to impress my kid. Kinder Joy is every kid's favorite at least for the surprise toy. Kids check the toy first before eating the chocolate. My kid loves Kinder Joy. Whenever I get Amul cream at home, I make this homemade Kinder Joy.

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How to Get Rid of Pimples from Face Overnight naturally

How to Remove Pimples from face overnight Naturally - Home Remedies to remove Pimples fast at Home:


Pimples, acne, spots, bumps and every other name that you can think of can be added to this list! In whatever way you refer them, they are just annoying and irritating! As women, we love to flaunt with flawless, spotless, beautiful smooth skin. We deserve it and we would not like it if anything interferes with our natural beauty. However, that is not the case because of the high pollution and dust in our environment. Not only the surroundings but our hormonal changes in our body add on top of it in getting us a lot of pimples from face. On and off we find bursts or pimples on our face and we would really want to get rid of it as soon as possible without any delay. Agreed that there are many acne treatments and recommendations that are available out there in the market but nothing can be compared to the ones that can be done at home simply with the ingredients lying in your kitchen.

How to get rid of pimples - remove acne scars overnight

Removing pimples overnight might look ridiculous to you if your pimple is not just starting. Well, matured pimples can also be removed quickly by applying home remedies. You cannot really get rid of pimple scars very quickly if they have been around for months. However, following simple home remedies can help you to get rid of pimples overnight naturally if you act in the right time. Finding a newborn pimple on your face? Come on. Act fast to remove the pimples overnight. If not, it is not too late to act on it to remove it quickly and naturally.

With home remedies, you can feel free from any kind of guilty feeling as you can ensure that there is no side effect for your face in long term. Using natural remedies not only helps you to remove pimples but also helps to add natural glow to your skin. Instead of putting a cream with a lot of chemicals, just one natural remedy can do wonder in getting rid of pimples naturally.

Before we list down the remedies that you can try, you first need to understand what exactly pimples are. Pimples are simply inflammations that surface up when the sebaceous or oil glands in your skin fill up with bacteria and swell.

Now to proceed further, we have listed down the various remedies that can be tried to get rid of them right at home in a short period of time.

I want to tell you that these tips for removing pimples can be used by both men and women for treating the pimples except turmeric remedy.

How to Remove Pimples from face overnight Naturally - Home Remedies to remove Pimples fast at Home:



Before you try lemon juice or orange juice for the first time, do a sensitivity test. Just apply the juice on your wrist and leave it for 20 minutes. If you find rashes, irritation or any other discomfort in the applied area, clean it immediately. Do not use it. Otherwise, you will get rashes, redness, irritation and any other adverse side effects.


Neem to get rid of pimples from face:


    Why does Neem work on pimples?
    1. Has an antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties that are extremely effective against pimples and other skin problems.
    2. Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and these neutralise the free radicals that affect the skin.
    3. Purifies the blood, rejuvenates and repairs the affected skin.


    How to Use Neem to get rid of pimples from face?

    You can try out an effective mask with neem and multani mitti. First, dry the neem leaves in the sun till they are completely dry and crisp. Grind it to a smooth powder and add 1 tsp of multani mitti. Make a smooth paste by adding a few drops of rose water. Add the pack onto the area with pimples and allow it to dry for 20 minutes. Wash with water.


      Garlic to get rid of pimples from face:


        Garlic has been a trusted home remedy to remove acne from face. Its antibacterial property helps to remove the pimples easily.

        Why does Garlic work on pimples?
        1. Has antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties
        2. Allicin on decomposition results in sulfenic acid which is an antioxidant that act against the free radicals that damage the skin.
        3. A natural drying agent that dries out the acne and removes them from the skin.
        4. Contains sulphur compounds such as Thiacremonon removes the excess oil from the skin.


        How to Use Garlic to get rid of pimples from face?

        An effective mask can be made by crushing 6 to 7 garlic cloves, a few tsp of honey along with a pinch of turmeric. Apply onto the problem area of your skin. Rinse with water after sometime.


        Turmeric to get rid of pimples from face:

        Turmeric is an easy and effective remedy that can be used by any woman. It not only cures pimples but also helps to add glow to your face. It gives a nice pale yellow color that helps you to add shine to your face naturally. Kasturi Turmeric is the best one to use for cosmetic purpose. I use it daily. 

        Why does Turmeric work on pimples?

        Tumeric has antiseptic and antibacterial property that helps to treat the pimples and other skin infections quickly. It is being used by women in Tamil Nadu widely to keep their skin flawless.



        How to Use Turmeric to get rid of pimples from face?

        • Daily application of Kasturi turmeric during bathing helps you to keep the pimples away.It helps to prevent pimples from coming up.
        • A turmeric face mask can be prepared by mixing gram flour, turmeric powder and milk or fresh cream. It can be applied on pimples or all over your face. Leave it till the turmeric face mask gets dried. Rinse off with cool water. Pat the face dry. You can apply this face mask twice a week.
        • The simplest way of treating pimnples using turmeric is mixing turmeric powder with water and applying it directly on your pimples. You can do this twice daily till the pimples go away.

        When it comes to turmeric, you do not need to wait for pimples coming up on your face. Just use it daily to keep your face pimples free and to keep it glowing.

        Lemon Juice to get rid of pimples from face:


        Lemon juice is one of the easiest home remedies to remove pimples naturally. But the sad news is, it might not be a safe bet for everyone. Skin of some people might be allergic to lemon juice and they should not use it. Otherwise, you will get more pimples and irritations. If you are not allergic to lemon juice, then you are free to reap the benefits of lemon juice to remove pimples.


        Why does lemon juice work on pimples?
        1. Lemon juice contains citric acid that helps to exfoliate the skin cells and flushes out the impurities from the skin. Also the acid has astringent properties that push out the excess oil from your skin.
        2. Lemon juice is a natural whitener for the skin and hence, reduces the red colour of the pimples.
        3. Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and other essential antibacterial ingredients.

        How to Use lemon juice to get rid of pimples from face?
        1. A mask can be made with a combination of lemon juice with honey or water. Apply this mask on the affected area and wash after 20 minutes. You can also add turmeric powder. To make a thick face mask, add besan flour.
        2. An easier remedy is to dilute lemon juice with water. Simply dip a cotton ball in lemon juice and apply onto your pimple. Let it act overnight. I always dilute lemon juice with water before applying directly on skin. If you are used to applying lemon juice diretly on skin, you can try that too.

        Orange Peels and Juice to get rid of pimples from face:

        Orange peels and juices are effective home remedies to remove pimples naturally. As said in the lemon juice, some of you might be allergic to it and you have to do a sensitivity test before using orange juice on skin.

        Why does Orange peel and juice work on pimples?
        1. Peel of the orange is rich in Vitamin C and the rough texture of the peel exfoliates the skin by flushing out impurities from the pores.
        2. The juice of the orange contains alpha hydroxy acid that also acts as an exfoliator.
        3. Has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that prevent growth of bacteria and aid the growth of healthy new skin cells.
        How to Use Orange peel and juice to get rid of pimples from  face?
        1. The simplest method is to rub the orange peel after cleaning onto the pimple area or apply the juice of orange onto the pimples. Make sure your keep rubbing gently till the peel turns black.
        2. An awesome orange peel face mask can be prepared right at home. All you need to do is to dry the orange peel in sunlight for 2 days or so. After it completely dries grind them to a fine powder. Now to the powder, apply some water and form a smooth paste. Apply the mask onto the affected area and wash with water after 20 minutes.
        3. Another effective remedy is dip the orange peel in a few tsp of raw milk for some time. Not only does the peel work on the pimples but also makes the affected area moisturized and smooth due to milk.

        Strawberry to get rid of pimples from face:

        Strawberry is a natural remedy to remove pimples. But we neglect it often simply because of the fact that is expensive. Yes, that's true. But if you have one or two pimples you can try using strawberry to remove pimples.

        Why does strawberry work on pimples?
        1. Strawberry is a natural organic source of salicylic acid which is one the most effective ingredients for treating pimple problems.
        2. Strawberry is a natural toner, moisturizer and cleanser.
        3. Strawberry has natural lightening properties that reduce the dark pigmentation marks that the pimples often leave on the skin.
        4. Strawberry contains antioxidants and phytonutrients like quercetin that prevent the sebum in the skin from oxidising.
        5. Strawberry  is a natural exfoliator as it removes the dead skin cells.

        How to Use strawberry to get rid of pimples from face?
        1. A strawberry mask can be prepared by blending together required no of strawberries and approximately 1 tsp of sour cream. The cream moisturizes and hydrates the pimple area and strawberries act on the pimples and remove the dead skin cells that clog the pores. You can add milk as well.
        2. Even a simple strawberry juice can work like a miracle.

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        Women's Day Contest Result and an Interesting video from Futurisk

        Happy Women's Day for all of you!!

        Here is the result for the #SheWearsThePants  Women's Day contest conducted by Futurisk. For full entries - http://event.futurisk.in/WomensDay/Entries.




        Here is an interesting video from Futurisk for Women's Day.



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        How to get Soft, Silky, Smooth and Shiny Hair Naturally At Home

        How to get Soft, Silky, Smooth and Shiny Hair Naturally At Home - Tips for Hair Smoothing at Home for both men and women.


        When was the last time you envied the hair of another lady and thought, “How I wished I had such lovely, silky and shiny hair!” I exactly know the feeling and do not blame you for it, as almost every woman dreads for long shiny and silky hair. Absolutely nothing wrong in wishing for it but what is the effort you take to make your hair bouncy, soft, shiny, smooth and shiny? You may immediately console yourself saying that you use the best branded expensive shampoo and conditioner in the market! However, you must keep in mind that these are just temporary solutions that are short lived. Nothing beats the ancient herbal remedies that you can easily prepare at home and use. Not only are they safe to use but they are also not expensive and produce excellent results when used regularly.

        How to get soft,silky,shiny and smooth hair naturally at home


        By now, you would have guessed what the rest of the article is going to focus on. Yes! This article is going to shed light on the various safe home remedies that can be used by you to get shiny and silky hair.

        Prior to that, let’s analyse the possible reason for dull rough hair. The outer most layer of your hair contains natural oils that are responsible for the shine and once this oil is reduced or damaged your hair becomes dull. Apart from this, other factors include:
        • Over exposure to Sun
        • Natural nutritional deficiencies
        • Using harmful chemical products
        • Not using a proper conditioner
        • Age
        • Stress related issues
        • Excessive usage of hair styling tools
        • High mineral content in water
        • Frequent usage of hair color and dyes
        • Lack of maintenance

        How to get Soft, Silky, Smooth and Shiny Hair Naturally? Home Remedies and tips for Hair Smoothing for both men and women:


        Here are some home remedies to get soft, silky and shiny hair naturally fast with natural remedies that work both for men and women and for all hair types like dull, frizzy, dry and oily hair.

        Excellent Hair Masks for shiny, soft, smooth and silky hair:

        Egg:

        Egg Hair Mask is one of the most popular and effective natural treatments for dull, dry and frizzy hair. With a lot of nutrients in it, egg is always trusted for hair smoothing at home by many women in this world to make the hair naturally smooth, soft, shiny and silky.

        Eggs are one of the best home remedies for soft, silky, smooth and shiny hair as they contain:
        • Essential proteins, lecithin and fatty acids that repair dull hair and make it smooth and shiny.
        • Vitamin A, D, B-6, B-12, minerals and fats improve the hair texture and strength.

        Few tips to note before making egg hair mask:
        • Using egg hair mask can leave you unpleasant smell if you don't rinse your hair well with shampoo.
        • Using egg white for preparing the hair mask is the best option for oily hair.
        • Using egg yolk for preparing the hair mask is the best option is the best for dry hair.
        • Do not forget to cover from root to tip.
        • Please do not use hot water when using egg masks as the eggs will clot and removing them would become a very difficult process. Try to use cool water. You can also use lukewarm water if using cold water is not possible.

        How to make egg hair mask to make the hair soft, shiny and silky?

        Egg Hair Mask is a rich protein mask that can do wonders when applied onto your hair. 

        • A basic egg hair mask can be prepared by simply mixing egg yolk and white. Apply it on your hair covering the entire scalp and hair strands. Leave it for 20 minutes and wash it off with a shampoo or shikakai
        • You can add olive oil or coconut oil in equal proportion with egg to make egg hair mask. 
        • To a tsp of butter and a tsp of thick milk, you need to add 2 egg yolks in combination with a few drops of olive oil. Apply onto your hair and rinse after 20 minutes.
        • Alternatively, you can prepare another hair mask by whipping 2 eggs and adding 2 tsp of almond oil and half a cup of yogurt. Apply this onto your hair and let it remain there for 30 minutes. Rinse with mild shampoo or shikakai and cold water.

        Gelatin for soft, silky, smooth and shiny fast:


        Similar to an egg mask treatment, gelatin masks are highly beneficial to get soft, shiny and silky hair at home naturally as Gelatin is,
        • Rich in Hydrolysed, Keratin proteins that is excellent for damaged hair.
        • Easily bonds with the hair.
        • Makes hair shiny, smooth and silky if it applied regularly.

        How to make Gelatin Hair Mask at home?

        • Take 1 tbsp unflavored Gelatin powder. Add required water to make a simple gelatin hair mask.
        • A combination of powdered unflavored gelatin, apple cider vinegar and honey in the ratio of 1:: 1: 1 to half a cup of water is an amazing hair mask that you can try.
        • You can add coconut milk or coconut oil too for extra moisturzing effect.

        Hibiscus to get soft, silky, smooth and shiny hair fast:

        Hibiscus is one of the ancient home remedies that is being used for many hair problems. Whenever my mom comes from my native place, I ask her to bring a bunch of hibiscus leaves. I make hibiscus hair mask and apply it. You can see your hair conditioned very well. In fact, your hair looks thickened naturally. With hibiscus, hair smoothing at home has become easier for me.

        Hibiscus is very much known to treat hair damage as it,
        • Prevents premature greying and makes the hair shiny.
        • A proven organic and highly safe conditioner for your hair.

        A simple process of grinding the leaves of the hibiscus plant in a blender with little amount of water and applying it specifically onto your scalp and roots of your hair has an amazing result. Give it a try and see!

        Add few hibiscus flower petals too if you have. If you don't have access to hibiscus plant, buy pure hibiscus powder and use it for making hibiscus hair mask.

        Apart from hibiscus hair mask, you can use hibiscus oil regularly.

        Aloe Vera:

        Aloe Vera is one of the best natural remedies to take care of the overall health of your hair.

        Aloe Vera extracts contain:
        • Anti-septic ingredients that prevent scalp infections and itchiness.
        • Antioxidants and vitamins along with moisture make the hair healthy and strong.
        • Essential minerals, amino acids and folic acid that is much needed for healthy and soft hair.
        Simply apply the gel on-to your scalp and massage gently for 10 minutes. Yet another effective hair serum that can be easily done is by mixing aloe Vera gel with a tsp each of olive oil and honey.


        Apples:


        Apple is truly a wonder fruit that is highly beneficial for the hair as,
        • Balances the pH level of the scalp.
        • Packed with malic acid and alpha hydroxy acid, apples act an exfoliator and removes the dead cells on the scalp.

        Take one or two apples depending on the length of your hair and boil them till they become soft. Filter excess water and blend them to a smooth paste. When it is warm, apply it to your hair. Leave for 30 minutes and rinse with a mild shampoo.

        Hair Tonics and Conditioners to make your hair smooth, soft, shiny and silky:

        Coconut Oil:

        The oil that is present in every household is an excellent oil that provides nourishment and increases the moisture content of your hair. Coconut oil is the trusted home remedies since ancient ages. Have you wondered why?
        • The chemical composition of the oil enables it to penetrate deep into the cortex of the hair thereby, strengthening and moisturizing it from the inside.
        • Contains Capric acid, lauric acid and other essential fatty acids that bind the proteins of the hair and protects the hair from breakage.
        • Packed with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic ingredients.
        • Contains vitamins E and K.
        Apply warm coconut oil starting from the hair roots to the tip. Allow it to remain for 30 minutes and rinse with cold water.

        Another option is to add a few curry leaves to 2 tsp of coconut oil. You can crush amla and add that too. Heat it gently till black residue forms underneath the oil. Allow it to cool and apply onto your scalp. Rinse after 30 minutes.

        Check Recipes: Amla Hair Oil and Curry Leaves Hair Oil.

        Coconut Milk to make your hair soft, silky and shiny naturally:

        Coconut milk is one of the easiest hair masks that you can prepare for hair smoothing at home. It serves as a great conditioner too.

        Grate coconut and grind it along with milk. Filter it and apply the coconut milk on your hair from root to tip. Leave it on for 20 minutes before washing your hair. The advantage of coconut milk is you do not need to shampoo your hair if you rinse your hair with water thoroughly.
        • Use drinking water to make the coconut milk.
        • Try to extract thick coconut milk. You need to add only required amount of water. If you add so much of water, then it will be dripping.

        Beer:


        Beer is good for your hair. That is the reason why Indian market is getting shampoos with beer nowadays. Beer contains
        • Proteins, vitamins and nutrients that help to repair the damaged hair and also nourishes the hair.
        • Sugar in the beer blocks the cuticles of your hair and thus, results in smooth and soft hair.
        • It’s an excellent tonic that can be used to get beautiful lustrous hair.
        Wash your hair with shampoo and then apply flat beer to the hair tips and scalp. Massage gently and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Rinse it with cold water. Repeat this regularly for 2 weeks to observe results.


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        Peas Sundal | Pattani Sundal Recipe | Dried Peas Masala Recipe

        Peas Sundal | Pattani Sundal Recipe | Dried Peas Masala Recipe:


        Peas Sundal(Pattani Sundal in Tamil) is one of my favorite tea time snacks prepared by my mom. Whenever I go to my native, my mom never misses make Peas Sundal/Pattani Sundal for me and my son. It is a very healthy and tasty recipe.  Peas Sundal/Pattani Sundal recipe is a very easy tea time snack recipe.

        This protein-rich, power-packed Peas sundal is a great option for Healthy snacks for kids. It can be prepared for your guests too. You can even serve this as a side dish for light dinner like dosa. Adjust the spice level according to your preference. It is not only easy-to-make recipe but also a colorful dish.

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        Ragi Manni Recipe | Ragi Halwa For Babies, Toddlers and Kids

        Ragi Manni Recipe | Ragi Halwa For Babies, Toddlers and Kids:


        Ragi Manni is one of the healthy traditional South Indian recipes that we make often especially for babies and kids. The key ingredients are Ragi flour, jaggery and coconut milk. Now you can very well assume how tasty the dish should be. This Ragi Manni recipe is my version of Sweet Ragi Porridge. Ragi is rich in fiber. 

        I prefer to make Ragi Manni in a pudding consistency as it is easy to consume. Few people make it in Halwa consistency. Please check at the end of the post to know more details about it.

        Also Check the post - Healthy snacks recipes for kids



        I have used instant Ragi Flour. You can even use Manna Health mix and follow the same recipe.

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        Women's Day Contest Announcement by Futurisk

        Dear Readers,

        There is an amazing contest being conducted by Futurisk for this Women's Day 2016. There are some assured gifts awaiting for early birds. Participate here - http://event.futurisk.in/womensday/.



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