The city of Mumbai — the city I call my home, has come alive with the Diwali preparations in full swing. Walking under a sheet of twinkling lights, the sight of stalls adorned with paraphernalia and local confectioneries baking mouth-watering sweets and savouries has been a remedy for my hectic work schedule and chaotic life, in general. Yes, I have been in high spirits, with the festive fervour taking over. Basking in the madness makes me feel like I am one with the city in this one rager of a celebration!
Having said that, as a person with a 9 to 5 — running errands in the week leading up to Diwali can be difficult. I have been scrambling to places amidst mind-numbing traffic jams, getting my place, all spic and span and most importantly chasing last-minute salon appointments for the D-day glam, only to be refused. On top of everything, navigating the aisles of beauty stores can be disorienting with the festive rush which is why I am thankful to have the Cross-Border store at my fingertip on the Nykaa App. I have been surveying the store for mapping the A to Z of my festive glam needs, which will further help me realise what I have envisioned for my Diwali glam in the comfort of my home! If you too, are looking for some inspiration and top-notch products from global labels to ace your festive glam, here’s a list of offerings I got my hands on.
All Bases Covered
Dr Barbara Sturm Mini Glow Drops
Want your skin to emanate a radiant, lit from within glow in time for the festivities? Get your hands on this potent concoction from Dr Barbara Strum and make inroads to healthy, immaculate skin. We know that Hyaluronic acid, which is a water-binding molecule, is found in the skin naturally, but over time with exposure to external aggressors and lifestyle choices, the level is known to deplete. Enter Mini Glow drops, the formulation boasts varying molecular weights of HA which ensures hydration of the deepest layers of the skin. Packed with the goodness of Polygonum Bistorta Root that delivers an even skin tone, Wild Rose Extract that dwindles the appearance of pores by tightening them and Purslane - with high vitamin levels and Omega 3 Fatty Acids, reduces the visible signs of irritation — this offering combats multiple skin issues.
This is one of my most beloved offerings, especially for festive occasions. For someone with uber sensitive skin I am always on the lookout for hybrid products that serve the purpose of rendering a glow and also satiate the skin. This formula gives my skin exactly what I desire — a shimmery satin-like finish which blends so seamlessly (it's like a second skin) while also providing a rich boost of moisturization. The Beglow cushion is super lightweight and yet gives my skin full-coverage protection! If you are looking to bid farewell to touch-ups this Diwali, I would recommend adding this product to your vanity.
Let Your Eyes Do The Talking
DOUCCE Freematic Eyeshadow Pro Palette
Chasing a statement-eye look this festive season? We got you covered — this gorgeous eyeshadow palette bearing 12 pigmented shades that won’t fade or falter is all you need. The powder formulation is silky smooth, with the satin-like finish of a cream which resists creasing and ensures effortless blending. There are two variations of the palette available- nude and smokey. I got my hands on the former, a mix of matte and shimmer shadows which will help me achieve the bold and beautiful looks I have envisioned. So, Insta-worthy Diwali selfies, here I come.
We are bringing back the ‘90s baby! Flaunting metallic lids has made a HUGE comeback, and we aren’t complaining. So if you are looking for a twinge of sparkle to amp up your eye makeup, I recommend getting your hands on the glitter pigments from Bodyography. Available in jewel and cool tones (13 beautiful hues, leaving you spoilt for choice), these pigments combine the cushion of a cream, the silkiness of a powder and a high-shine pearlescent glitter finish all in one extraordinary product. This product boasts an infallible formula which makes it resistant to sweating and smudging, an ideal pick for the festivities!
A good mascara grants your lashes the perfect definition, dimension and depth which is why I count on the Moor Power Black Mascara for events and engagements. I love how the formulation is never clumpy, is water-resistant and just one stroke of it, with the tapered wand gives the lashes a 360 coverage. It helps lengthen and volumize the lashes without weighing them down and gives you lashes for days.
Popping Gloss
Nimya Spill The Juice Lip Gloss
I seldom step out without a swap of colour across my lips: a burst of juicy colour coupled with a shine-shine gloss finish is my go-to, which is why I have been using the Spill The Juice Lip Gloss for a while now. For Diwali this year, I plan on summoning the beautiful shade, as the gloss drives all the feathering and smudging worries to bay. The formula is a class apart, it's never greasy, gives the lips superior comfort and a rich boost of nourishment. There is something for everyone, with five hues meant to sit well with different skin tones. Take your pick now!
If you are a fan of a soft, clean aesthetic and want a strobe of hue across the lips, closest to your actual colouring — the dew tint by AMUSE is your wonder product. This hybrid product allows the natural colour of your lips to take centerstage with a water coat finish. Boasting mango, apple and vitamin E extract it is also adept in giving your lips dewy care against external aggregators. No more chapped, flaky lip with this brilliant offering available in 12 different shades.
