A woman carries her baby for nine months inside the womb. But it doesn’t stop there. It continues until the child grows and she has to take one step at a time. Just after getting out of the delivery trauma and birthing experience, boom it’s the breastfeeding and making the baby sleep.
What is colic?
And when you say sleep it depends on a lot of factors. The baby should have been fed well and not have any issues in digestion. Quite often babies exhibit symptoms like crying for prolonged duration. Science terms this as ‘colic‘. The baby twists, turns and exhibits actions clearly denoting not being comfortable.
This could either be due to issues in digestion or difficulty in passing gas or poop. There is no clear cut reason mentioning why the baby experiences colic pain. But there are a lot of ways to ease it out and make baby calm. The behavior is repetitive and is mostly stressful for the parent especially the mother.
Ways to ease colic pain
Holding the baby in a certain position
giving tummy time
massaging the belly and naval
applying hing paste are few practices that are done to ease the pain.
But a trustworthy aid across centuries has been woodwards gripe water. Primarily contains dill seed oil and sodium bicarbonate which helps ease the pain in tummy and neutralize the stomach acid.
Woodwards gripe water
The gripe water is alcohol and sugar free and has been a helping hand to most new mothers who struggle with babies having colic pain. The gripe water can also be used when baby is teething since that also takes a toll on the normal digestive cycles.
As much as the method of giving birth, care during pregnancy, feeding the child, their introduction to solids, sleep schedules have seen major changes the one thing that’s been the same across generations and time immemorial has been the usage of gripe water.
Woodwards has been a trustworthy brand across generations and ancestors swear by it. Handling a colicky baby can be overwhelming and kind of exhausting at times but over a period of time kids outgrow that phase .
Could also be termed as a product that helps new mothers relax and don’t take a toll on their mental health worrying about this. When you have this handy you are rest assured you have a happy baby.
Happy baby = happy mother.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE – @Sindhu Vinod Narayan. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Sindhu Vinod Narayan (Thatmadrasmom) with the right and specific direction to the original content.
If you’re thinking that the online space is only for big or mid-sized companies, you might need to rethink again before you are sure of it next time. A variable increase in the number of traditional, small businesses is now adopting the digital way to a varying extent and for good reason.
Going digital should not be seen as a way to build an image but has several other leveraging advantages. In today’s world, you will find yourself in the online space on a beneficial need. No matter what sort of business you do, the type of customers you handle, the model that you follow or create for you, what category of Business it comes under, you make it a necessity to mark your presence in the online world.
Choosing to establish a digital presence sure does have value in it. A quick google search would land you any business sure does have a mark on the digital space or in simpler terms have an online footprint.
Today even if you are having a hardware or a supplies business, you could say that even if not a giant, you do have an identification on the online space. With a simple receipt of money from accepting cards, UPI, or e-wallets which are something like mobile application-based payment, congratulations you have made good progress.
There is always scope for improvement similarly, if you are already into the digital world, there is still a possibility to expand the digital footprint to magnify your presence.
Digital trends impacting MSME
Increased number of small businesses moving online.
A recent study that was conducted indicated that 63% of MSMEs wanted to go digital but only 5% went in the real digital world. A majority of MSMEs reported positive responses to post moving into the digital world. One more study mentioned that businesses that opted for the digital way doubled their growth in a quicker span than their offline counterparts which is a seemingly big achievement. SO on the whole considering both the case study above it is evident that small businesses are continually moving towards digitization.
Adopting cloud technology
Several small businesses adopted cloud technology to improvise their way of working. This included solutions that help in password management, mailing lists, and handling customer relationships. This helps organizations achieve productivity and make a competitive achievement. This was agreed by a majority of MSMEs where the results were proven to be positive. The cloud-based technology solutions that were opted for by the organizations are affordable and could be tailored to suit any business scenario.
Encouragement from the Government to adopt a cloud strategy
To raise the contribution of MSMEs GDP to 50% in the next 5 years the Government has placed the adoption of cloud-based solutions as one of the priorities. !8 tool rooms have been set up to assist the MSMEs in the cloud-based solution adoption which is expected to be increased to over 150 training centers.
Understanding and adjusting to the millennials
In terms of the sheer number and purchase power, the millennials rule the online world. So to get your business on their radar the small businesses must adapt video content for promotion, influencer marketing, and usage of social media.
Power of social media and its dominance
In terms of reach, impact, and conversion to sales social media dominate the marketing strategy. Facebook and Instagram in particular are the key players to focus on.
Chatbots for customer service
Better customer service is the key to financial growth. Given limited resources, automating customer service and response to customer queries help in streamlining the process. The quicker the turnaround for a customer query the more you get to score in terms of valuable service and definitely, that paves way for word of mouth growth, which in turn means more number of customers and could be possible conversion to sales.
How can it serve to be a springboard to success?
Adopting digital methods or digitization is served to be a springboard and bring in exponential growth
A representative of business transformation
Adopting cloud-based solutions helps to streamline the operating process and helps in improving growth and productivity. The most powerful effect on Business would be from adopting digitization.
Versatile and dominant medium of business
High impact branding and communication in the form of text, audio, and video is possible and thereby bringing in unprecedented reach. Helps enable real-time two-way communication through dedicated brand platforms that help in driving interaction and engagement.
The ultimate path for sales
With e-commerce raising the curtain for the show of online shopping from the comfort of homes and at suitable times, the products are available at ease, and payments are also made hassle-free.
A deeper insight into above-sighted advantages is below.
Triggering business transformation
These cloud-based solutions are plug and play which in other words mean they can be tailored to suit your business needs. With Big- data analytics-enabled it helps access patterns and insights and enabled to choose business decisions accordingly. From manufacturing to supply chain to CRMs they are tailored accordingly. Mailing Management – MS Outlook ,Gmail Storage management – One drive and Google Drive, Accounting software – Intuit QuickBooks Online, CRM software – Apptivo Though it requires time and effort to choose the best that suits your needs, the return on investment is exponential.
Versatile cost-effective medium
To reach out to prospects nationwide and worldwide is the best means. Another added advantage being the ability to effectively narrow down the target prospects based on purchase power, demography, and many such factors. Online videos on Youtube, are a great way to capture the eyeballs and register your brand to the target audience. A key performance metric is an engagement that decides the success rate. The prospects’ progress journey that lands on sales are the result every business looks out for. This can be achieved by content creating that is compelling and interactive enough to initiate engagement.
Sales enablement
An eCommerce platform could either be your own or can be chosen to be a part of eCommerce aggregator platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Paytm, snapdeal, and Shopclues.
The deeper you go into digital, the number of benefits it would reap you. But the ultimate choice of what solutions you select should take your business to the next level. This should be the ultimate goal. The digital space has a lot of aspects to offer so choose wisely. If done appropriately, it can propel growth to greater heights. But bad customer experiences could get blown out of proportion so that needs to be taken care of.
Double or triple check before you dive into a digital initiative. So make wise choices and keep testing for loopholes that need attention. Investments into these solutions could be counted as risks, but if you have everything in place and confident about what lies ahead then definitely the results would overshadow the risks that you take.
Growth Matters Forum is a community for business owners to explore ideas, streamline growth and create an impact. Join the community here.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE – @Sindhu Vinod Narayan. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Sindhu Vinod Narayan (Thatmadrasmom) with the right and specific direction to the original content.
The Government of India introduced Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in agreement with the Micro, Small and Medium enterprises development act of 2006. Predominantly these enterprises engage in producing, manufacturing, processing, and preserving goods and commodities.
Also referred to as the backbone of the country next to agriculture. They play a dominant role in contributing to the country’s GDP, manufacturing output, and the country’s exports.
The enterprises generate a lot of employment opportunities thereby helping bridge the gap between unemployment and poverty; also paving the way for the development of the rural areas in the country.
They have helped industrialization in these areas with low capital cost compared to large industries. In complementary to the large business sectors, MSMEs have a major part in the country’s economy, thereby helping in the socio-economic development of the nation.
They produce and manufacture both for domestic and international markets. So much advancement and product improvement has been seen in the khadi and coir industries. The upbringing of rural areas has been one of the major outcomes of the MSMEs collaboration with the various ministries and State Governments. To be precise the 6.3 crore MSMEs are not only contributing one-third to the nation’s GDP but also help in the employment of the population in the non-formal sector.
The MSMEs play a major role in the transformation of India from an emergent power to a reputable financial center. Not wrong in saying that the MSMEs will be the gear in the wheel for this journey.
Importance of MSME for the economy
Throughout the world, the MSMEs have been accepted to be a major means of economic growth and for the promotion of justifiable development. The rate of growth in the highest rate is from the MSMEs.
Requiring Low investment for setting up, flexible operation, and the ability to develop the native technology accordingly are few major reasons that MSMEs have for having taken India to greater heights. The second-largest employment generating sector next to agriculture, employing about approximately 120 million people.
MSME ministry targets to increase the GDP to 50% due to their contribution by the year 2025, as India moves ahead to become a $5 trillion economy.
At present, they contribute about one-third of the GDP which is 6.11% from manufacturing, and about 24.63 from the MSME service activities of the 45 lac units across the nation.
MSMEs contribute about 45% of the overall exports. By specifically employing the people in weaker sections of the rural society, the MSMEs promote all-round development through the provision of employment opportunities.
Opportunities to utilize banking services and products are encouraged to be used by MSMEs in tier 2 and tier 3 cities thereby an additional way wherein the amount can be used in the inclusion of the final economy contribution.
MSMEs encourage innovation in budding entrepreneurs to build new products thereby boosting the growth and help in fueling the economy.
COVID-19 and its impact
MSME’s play a crucial role in realizing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar’ or self-reliant India. It was also one of the hardest-hit sectors due to the COVID -19 pandemic as the supply chains in world trade took a major jolt and came to a standstill. The government has been lending helping hands to regain the momentum in these sectors, knowing that prioritizing the development of these sectors is critical to the overall development of the Nation. As much as the Government provides support to these sectors, the benefits can be utilized only if the Business is registered as MSME under the MSME act. An economic package was proposed to regain the momentum, about 20 lac crores almost 10% of the GDP was brought in to help all sectors including the farmers, middle-class people, industrial units, and MSMEs.
LOAN TO MSME
Around two lakh MSMEs would be benefited from the 20,000 crore subordinated debts announced for MSMEs.
A collateral loan of three lac was provided with a tenure of four years.
The definition of MSMEs was changed which now included turnover as one of the parameters in addition to investment. Micro units can have a 5 crore turnover, with no global tender for up to 200 crores and any pending payment to the MSMEs to be made in 45 days.
A 12month moratorium on the loans and a 100% credit guarantee cover to be provided as well. These loans were provided until October 31st this year. Close to 45 lac MSMEs were supposed to be benefitted from this.
Global tenders up to 200 crores were banned in any Government venture, as foreign companies are bright competitors and use unfair practices to procure the opportunities. The result of which Indian MSMEs falling prey to such international giants. Banning these will help enhance the vision of a self-reliant India and also enable ‘make in India’ to come true sooner.
As the Government now highlights the role of MSMEs in enhancing exports and thereby making our country self-reliant, the need to import from China will stop. These were the Union Minister, Nitin Gadkari’s thoughts that echoed in his meeting .
Being self-reliant already being implemented in industries such as automobile and agriculture, solutions have been seemingly found and the need to import from China has certainly not been seen as a necessity. The results of which were seen sooner as India was now observed to export a lot than importing.
He also said that as far as Indian policies are concerned, our way of technology acceptance, reducing the production cost and providing products of good quality, the young talented manpower in the country is no doubt the strength behind the achievement of self-reliant India.
With the majority of countries not interested to be dealing with China currently, rather providing an advantageous situation for us; as they are rather interested in doing business with India. A great opportunity for the manufacturing sectors to scale up capabilities to boost exports and thereby contributing to the increase in the economy.
With positive trends showing lesser imports from China and greater exports, the minister added that MSMEs are doing a great job despite facing an economic crisis. He also added that the Government had sanction 93 schemes and over 100 schemes are in pipeline would be cleared sooner to pave the way development of MSMEs.
Certain areas that could boost the development of MSMEs at a quicker rate would be below
Artificial intelligence
Robotics
Using the waste to make something useful (in short waste to wealth)
Sustainability
Virtual reality-based solutions
E-mobility
Development of smart villages.
If we see notable developments in the above areas that could be an added advantage for us.
A lot of collaborative projects like centers of excellence are being set up across the nation. These projects are being set up across the IITs and NIITS which are one of the premier educational and research institutes. This would help ignite younger minds and also pave way for numerous budding entrepreneurs.
Growth Matters Forum is a community for business owners to explore ideas, streamline growth and create an impact. Join the community here.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE – @Sindhu Vinod Narayan. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Sindhu Vinod Narayan (Thatmadrasmom) with the right and specific direction to the original content.
Arbutin is the newest name that rides the bandwagon of active skincare ingredients. Extracted from plants like pear,blueberry and cranberry , the ingredient is mainly used in skin brightening. Treating blemishes and uneven pigmentation are major benefits of using alpha arbutin.
Dermatologists trust this ingredient much more than other active ingredients to treat blemishes than other active ingredient counterparts.
Termed as one of the safest ingredients to provide skin brightening and helping in fading out scars left by acne and breakouts.
It is termed safe than the counterpart hydro uinone but has the same skin brightening benfits without the process of bleaching that could be harmful. Hydroquinone is banned in Europe and Australia which paved way for arbutin to replace it in the shelves.
Arbutin works to suppress the enzymes which produce melanin thereby reducing pigmentation. A slow down happens in process by which the UV rays cause pigmentation. As a result arbutin works to prevent as well as treat pigmentation.
Post blemish redness, dark spots and age spots denote pigmentation in various stages. Arbutin works to treating thse conditions by reducing the redness and making the skin tone even. People with sensitive skin can best chose arbutin over harsher counterparts like retinol and lactic acid. BENEFITS:
Treatment of hyperpigmentation
A cosmeceutical that helps to fade out scars, age spots and melasma.Arbutin also works to prevent future freckles and hyperpigmentation even after sunburn.
Arbutin stops any extra production of melanin. Melanin production involves a chain of processes. Simply put arbutin stops the chain to treat pigmentation.
BRIGHTER SKIN
Arbutin aids in making skin tone even and to brighten the skin. This makes skin glow and appear healthy. It is a skincare beauty blender that is naturally blending the skin instead of using a foundation.
SAFER AND POWERFUL ALTERNATIVE TO HYDROQUINONE
Traditionally hydroquinone has been used in treating melasma and pigementation because of its ability to clear out scars. But the synthetic hydroquinone thats been used in products is aggressive in nature causing skin damage if not used in proper application methods. Results show that improper usage can lead to blue or grey patches on skin, When compared arbutin is much safer for topical application and it also being a natural derivative makes it a better choice. Arbutin has been proven to work even on the toughest pigmentation conditions and extreme cases of melasma.
What should you keep in mind?
One thing to keep in mind is that alpha arbutin is safe when used in 2% concentration and beta arbutin concentration can go upto 7% for safer limits.
Arbutin is great on all skin types and tones.But few suggestions to improvise the application benefits would be to include vitamin C alongside to boost the brightening benefits or to exfoliate using an AHA and then follow up with arbutin.
Do not use beyond three months and the improvements take at least 1-2 months to show up. Patience and perseverence are two most important things to keep in mind when treating skin conditions. No product is magical to just make your skincare concerns disappear in a day. Make sure to give time for the product to work and to trust your body.
How to use?
Can be used in forms of gel,cream or a serum.
The sequence in usage would be,
Cleanse
Exfoliate
Tone
Arbutin
Moisturizer
Sunscreen
Use it initially as a spot treatment. Always begin with a patch test. Can be done on forehead when skin is thickest. Gradually increase areas of application to pigmentation prone area or even entire face. Massage for two minutes to get the product absorbed by skin.
Follwo up with moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. The arbutin must be dried up before appying moisturizer else it will not absorb into skin and do its job.
Arbutin makes skin susceptible to sunburn and UV radiation effects. Since arbutin works to inhibit melanin production the skin is delicate and can be damaged easily. So always make sure to use sunscreen when using arbutin.
ARBUTIN PRODUCTS
Minimalist 2% Alpha Arbutin Face Serum for Pigmentation, Dark Spots & Tan Removal with HA
The formulation is made up of 2% alpha arbutin with a combination of hyaluronic acid. Proven to be nine times more effective than beta arbutin. Can be used daily. Promises even tone in 5 weeks. Suited for both AM and PM routine . To be followed up with sunscreen.
The Derma Co. 2% Alpha Arbutin Face Serum For Dark Spots & Uneven Skin Tone
The formulation contains 2% alpha arbutin in combination with hyaluronic acid and tartaric acid to reduce pigmentation and stop melanin production. Hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant and also boosts collagen productions whereas tartaric acid on the other hand is naturally derived from grapes to work on lessening pigmentation and spots.
Suited for both AM and PM routine . To be followed up with sunscreen.
It is india’s first two phase serum that combines oil and water. Natural oils are infused with active ingredients to provide skin brightening benefits. Formulation has alpha arbutin in combination with azelaic acid , peony flower rich in antioxidants, mulberry and rosehip oil.
With kids having vacations during thanksgiving we often look out for a long of options to keep them engaged. Though we do have a lot of options to keep them engaged in terms of activities like craft or painting.
But reading books can be done to keep them involved and transport them to the world of imagination. How many of us read to kids before they sleep? If you haven’t done I’d urge you to start doing it and see the wonderful changes it promotes in children.
Here are two books I’d recommend reading this season.
The boy who breathed under water by Izzy Reez
A young boy lies down on his bed gazing around his room. As we know young minds are curious a thought crawled into his little busy mind.
He wanted to know how would it be if he has super powers. But he wasn’t sure which one he’d wanted. So decided to give a try to check out some and then finalize. A mysterious genie comes out just like making the whole situation magical.
He suggests tryouts of powers so that he can finalise the one the boy chooses after a time of one week. The boy decides to try out as many as he can like being invisible, being able to lift up things, being able to breathe underwater, being able to fly, being able to control with his mind, turning into animals.
Though he had imagined having these powers they came with their own disadvantages. By the end of the week he felt that there wasn’t one he chose to decide upon.
The genie appeared and gave him a valuable life lesson that as a kid him playing and pretending would be lot more fun than to have magical super powers. The boy understood the reality and immediately chose to live the moment cuddling the cat.
The book sends out a lovely message to young readers to enjoy the life at the moment. Also helps understand to be happy with whatever we have, because something that we long for and get could have their disadvantages.Having magical powers can seem fascinating but not more than their playful attitude and curious little minds that finds an idea of play and pretending.
The illustrations wonderfully support the text and makes it much more engaging.
The kind who didn’t like snow by Jocelyn Porter and Michael S Kane
Who doesn’t love snow?? Those tiny white flakes bring in a lot of joy cause it’s the season of celebration. But here is a King who dislikes snow. The book brings out a lovely little story of why the King Mark hated snow and how the wizard Bertram Ebenezer Rufus Togtangle shortly called Bert made the King love snow.
Bert and his friend Broderick a bookworm had a lot of fun. Bert was friendly and helped children and people in the village. Broderick was living in Berts book of spells. He’d always wanted to read from the book nd one day he did and he turns into a big squish green bookworm.
Bert doesn’t have space to accommodate Broderick so he asks the King and he readily agrees to make Broderick the Royal Librarian and gives him place to stay in the library.
One fine day it starts snowing and King Mark gets really annoyed. Bert uses his magic spell but it makes situation worse what does he do later to make the King love snow? Read the book to know what he does.
A short read but definitely a fun one. The illustrations are bright colourful and definitely promising for young readers to keep them glued.
Loved the conversations especially the ones between Broderick and Bert. The book definitely sounds an awesome plot for pretend play.
What I loved
This story is dedicated to the volunteers of Hospital Radio Plymouth who broadcast musical messages of love to patients, families and friends whether it’s snowing or sunny. Nothing stops HRP broadcasting every day of the year.
Retinol or retinoid is a derivative of vitamin A. Known for its ability to boost cell turnover, it is one of the widely used ingredients incorporated into daily skincare routine.
Whether you want to maintain a fine glow or shoo away the fine lines and signs of ageing, this is one ingredient that you should be reaching to. Though it is not very tough to source it as its readily availble over the counters in departmental stores, drug stores or over ecommerce websites, it is the ingredient that s often misinterpreted or misused.
One most important factor to take care is to use it during the nights as sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product. And also that using it makes skin more sensitive to UV rays, it is advised to use sunscreen in the day and retinols at night.
HOW TO START?
Thirties are termed to be banner age for retinoids however the mid twenties would be much better to start off with. It has to be incorporated slowly into your routine, say about twice in a week and peas sized amount to start off. In earlier stages make sure to wash it off post two hours.
The side effects are mild with redness, itching, dryness and sensitivityduring the course of time the normal skin gets adjusted to the ingredient. However the sensitive skin reacts triggering acne and rosacea so people with highly sensitive skin can stay away from using this and have many alternatives to choose from to incorporate into their routine.
When you’re getting started you can wash face, wait for sometime for the natural facial oils to set in and then apply retinols. Or in other ways you can incorporate the sandwich technique wherein you can dab the moisturizer, apply retinol and then seal it with moisturizer again.
Start with a lower strength like 0.75% and then proceed to 1%. While the retinols that are available over the counter are for fighting the signs of ageing, The ones that are given in prescription are for treating acne.
When you are using retinold it is best prefered to use cream base under the eyes and for the face use a serum followed by moisturizer.
CONDITIONS BEST TREATED BY RETINOLS
acne
fine lines
wrinkles
age (sun) spots, freckles, and other signs of sun damage, sometimes called photoaging
uneven skin texture
melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation
large pores caused by acne, oily skin, or collagen loss
WHY IS IT BENEFICIAL?
Unlike other anti-ageing products , this ingredient does not just stop with removing dead skin cells, they also penetrate deep into the epidermis.
They help in neutralising the free radicals and help in boosting production collagen and elastin. This creates a plumping effect and helps in reducing fine lines, dark spots and wrinkles. Since it also helps in exfoliating the skin the texture is improved to a greater extent.
It is very helpful in clearing out acne, it unclogs pore by forming comedolytic agents to prevent forming blemishes and comedones. If acne is very severe the retinol is prescribed along with antibitoics. It doesn not show results instantaneously, it takes upto six weeks minimum to show visible results.
PRODUCTS IN INDIA
Olay Night Cream: Regenerist Retinol 24 Moisturiser
The cream promises 24 hour potency and hydration on skin. Suited for dry, normal and combination skin. Proven to penetrate 10 layers deep. The formulation works in combination with niacinamide.
The same formulation is available as a serum as well. But it is best to use either one of them and not together since they are of high potency.
The reason the formulation includes niacinamide is to reduce the redness upon using the product.
Dot & Key Glow Night Reset Retinol + Ceramide Cream
The formulation includes provitamin B5 and vitamin E along with hyaluronic acid to improve hydration. The other ingredients include hibiscus because of presence of AHAs, seabuck thorn oil, evening primrose oil which help in acne prevention and keeping skin moisturized.
The Derma Co. 0.3% Retinol Face Serum For Spotless Skin
The formulation works in combination with vitamin C to fight signs of ageing and alter the aged cells. Also contains glycerine to act as a humectant. Advised to do a patch test before application , especially people with sensitive skin.
Nykaa SKINRX 2% Advanced Retinol Anti-Aging Face Serum for Wrinkles & Fine Lines
The formulation consists of 2% retinol , along with 2% lactic acid that stimulates collagen renewal and 1% Australian caviar lime extract for it being a rich source of AHA and gentle exfoliant.
Suited for normal, dry , combination and oily skin but no mention about sensitive skin.
Hyaluronic acid, I know its difficult to pronounce but even more difficult to get the right spelling. A skincare ingredient that has recently found its place in almost all serums, sheet mask and moisturizer. And the reason why is that it can be your mandatory addition to daily skincare routine. It is a naturally occurring molecule in your skin that gives you the dewy look.
It helps to bind the water to skin giving it all the more a glowing look. More than retaining moisture it also has various other benefits.
What is hyaluronic acid?
It is a naturally occurring sugar molecule on skin that helps in binding of collagen and water and making the skin look plump and dewy. It helps boost hydration in skin to make it look glowing. The acid molecule binds collagen to one end and water to the other thereby adding to the plump factor of the skin.
What is the need to include hyaluronic acid?
As humans we age so does our skin and in the process there is a decrease in collagen and hyaluronic acid, this makes the skin look dehydrated. Harsh weather conditions like winter, existing skincare problems may cause tiny breaks through which water could leak. So there is a need to include a humectant in skincare regimen to attract the water molecules. Some of which are hyaluronic acid, glycerine and oatmeal.
Hyaluronic acid gets easily absorbed to skin and thereby attracts a lot of water keeping the skin hydrated. This is the reason it finds itself as one of the major ingredients in skincare products.
Skin types
Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that suits all skin types. It does not cause acne, eczema or rosacea.
People with dry and mature skin and those with ageing symptoms might need more of hyaluronic acid. This is because as we age we lose the ability to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid and it is necessary to be supplemented.
On the other hand, since the name contains the term ‘acid’ people with sensitive skin might fear to incorporate products with this ingredient. That is not the case because it is a naturally occurring molecule in skin that is produced by our very own bodies and can be safely used on sensitive skin.
BENEFITS
A molecule of HA can bind about 100 molecules of water of its own size , come to think of the goodness that it has to offer the skin.
TEWL or trans epidermal water loss is a very commonly known term in the skincare industry that describes water loss on the skin. It is a term that denotes the amount of water evaporated from skin.
A product that prevents TEWL actually helps in keeping your skin hydrated. HA does this by slowing down the rate of evaporation of water from the skin.
HA also apart from being a humectant helps in faster healing of wounds.
The other benefits that HA offers are
Anti-ageing
Reducing redness
Moisturizing
Treat acne
Treat eczema
Increasing the elasticity of skin
It also helps in treatinf dry eye and reduced tear production conditions since it is known for its hydration properties.
It has been proven that the naturally produced hyaluronic acid in body helps in lubricating the bone joints.
PRODUCTS WITH HYALURONIC ACID DOING WELL IN INDIAN MARKETS
Loreal paris revitalift 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum
The serum is non-sticky and promises 21% increased plumpness, 42% skin radiance and intense hydration.
Ponds Super Light Gel Oil Free Moisturiser With Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E
This is probably the cheapest and one of the effective options to incorporating hyaluronic acid to skincare routine. I’ve personally used this, its non-sticky and does help in retaining moisture , doesn’t give an oily appearance. I loved the fragrance and the gel consistency. Although I felt the packaging can be much more improved.
The product promises hydration that penetrates 10 layers deep and that lasts for 100 hours. He formulation has hyaluronic acid, activated aloe water and aloe bio ferment.
By far the costliest range I’ve seen in products containing hyaluronic acid.
You have a mountain of beauty brands to choose from. These are days where we not only want to choose the brand but also make a choice of ingredients that will work on your skin. The term active ingredient has been making rounds recently and you see a line up of products getting released be it whatever brand there is an active ingredient addressing a skin concern.
When you decide to incorporate products into skincare routine the most important step is to understand your skin and to choose products which are made of ingredients that would suit your skin. Just because there is an ‘XYZ ‘ brand advertising their vitamin C range promises clear skin in 10 days, it doesn’t mean the result is guaranteed, the range of products will work for you, they will not give you side effects. So take time in learning about the ingredients, the problems they can address or the benefits they have for your skin and then choose a brand.
Or if you have complicated skin conditions it is best suggested to consult a dermatologist and proceed with what they describe. Whatever you see on social media is not going to work for every person who purchases the product.
As a skincare blogger here and an influencer on Instagram, when I promote products I leave an honest review after 2-3 weeks of usage of products. However I also leave a disclaimer that what works for me might not work for everyone else as every skin is unique.
The second ingredient that I want to talk about is kojic acid. The first time I hear the term I was like , “Kojic what?”. Using acid on skin sounded to make me terrified.Though I have been someone who has been using lemon peels on skin for the vitamin C absorption, I do it with water sprinkled and patted on skin to not make the acid act directly on skin.
I decided to read through what kojic acid is and what benefits of kojic acid would my skin agree to and who can use it. I tried some and there you also have my reviews on them later on this post.
What is Kojic acid?
Mushrooms are the basic sources of kojic acid or simply put it is a natural by-product derived from various fungi and fermentation of foods like soy sauce and rice wine. Benefits of Kojic acid is it’s mainly used to lighten the skin pigment and helps treat discolouration and reduce dark spots.
How does it work?
Melanin is responsible for providing colour to eyes , hair and skin. An amino acid called tyrosine helps in melanin production. Kojic acid works to block tyrosine production which in turn stops melanin production leaving the skin light.
BENEFITS OF USING KOJIC ACID
ANTI -AGEING
Kojic acid lessens dark spots and helps lighten the skin which in turn gives anti-ageing benefits when used on skin.
TREATS MELASMA
Pregnancy can induce melasma which is pigmentation that causes your complexion to be uneven. Kojic acid works to neutralize the pigmentation there by giving you lighter skin.
SCAR DISAPPEARANCE
Usage of kojic acid can lessen the presence of scar by making it appear light. Though the thick tissue might be there, it’s presence can be greatly reduced by lessening it.
ANTI-FUNGAL BENEFIT
Being derived from various fungi, kojic acid provides anti-fungal protection from diseases like athlete’s foot and yeast infection.
SIDE EFFECTS:
When used over a long period of time kojic acid can make your skin susceptible to sun. Rashes, itches and irritation are commonly observed side effects. So always make sure to incorporate a sunscreen when using kojic acid in skincare routine.
PRODUCTS IN INDIA
The derma . co kojic acid cream for pigmentation
Dermaco kojic acid face cream
This cream works with a formulation that incorporates 2% of kojic acid in combination of vitamin C in reducing dark spots and improving pigmentation. I really liked the pump method to get the cream out which is light on application. I do it post cleansing in both AM and PM routine.
This is a serum that is formulated with kojic acid along with aloe vera, arbutin, glutathione,glycerine. Compared to a cream base this is lighter because of its serum consistency and requires application through a dropper.
The serum does not leave a oily residue post application.
Alka Joshi is the New York Times bestselling author of The Henna Artist. Born in India and raised in the United States since the age of nine, she has a BA from Stanford University and an MFA from California College of the Arts. She lives in Pacific Grove, California, with her husband. This is her second novel.
BLURB:
Will the secret-keeper of Jaipur reveal what has remained buried for so long? It is the spring of 1969. Lakshmi, now married to Dr Jay Kumar, is working at the Shimla community clinic. Malik has finished his private school education. At twenty, he has just met a young tribal woman, Nimmi, when he leaves to begin an apprenticeship at the Jaipur Palace. The royals’ latest project: a state-of-the-art cinema. Malik soon finds that not much has changed as he navigates the Pink City of his childhood. Power and money still move seamlessly among the wealthy, and favors flow from Jaipur’s royal palace, but only if certain secrets remain buried. When the cinema’s balcony tragically collapses on opening night, blame is placed where it is convenient. Malik suspects something far darker and sets out to uncover the truth. As a young street urchin, he always knew to keep his own counsel; it’s a lesson that still serves him well. But it is only when Lakshmi, the real keeper of Jaipur’s secrets, intervenes, that things can truly right themselves
Review
A delicious engaging and a book that can get you glued is how I’d like to describe ‘ The secret keeper of jaipur’. First things first when I got my hands on this book in exchange for an honest review I was drowning in guilt because I knew this was a sequel and I hadn’t read the first book though it had great reviews. But I’d totally love to let out that the author had set the book as a standalone so it doesn’t matter if you didn’t read the first book she’s given all that you need to know who’s who. How cool is that?
Mmmm..Yes finally I had to give in to my guilt which is why it took me a long time to come up with this review. I took the plunge to read ‘The Henna artist’ and then get back to this book.
A fine transition to the second book and the perfect sequel I’d call it , I was happy that we encounter Lakshmi again here. Whoa boy, I did love how her character was sketched then and now here.
The natural healer , Lakshmi as how she is known gets married to Dr.Jay. Her helperMalik the one we all would definitely adore is all grown up and completes his education all set to step on foot to embark his journey into career. The mother and son encounter an acquaintance who is Nimmi a tribal woman, a widow and a mother of two children. She gathers flowers from Himalayan foothills and sells them . He falls in love with Nimmi, , Lakshmi is initially unhappy about the choice made by her son ,
He is sent as an apprentice to the facilities firm in Rajasthan. The cinema hall of, th the Royals is all set to open for the launch wherein a tragedy strikes on the D day, the balcony collapses and kills two people. Malik finds that the incident is due to poor quality materials used in construction and also uncovers political connections.
His mother Lakshmi on the other hand uncovers gold smuggling and knowing the dangers that would surround her close members she decides to deal it herself. Malik being in the center of the scandal becomes the keeper of secrets.
How do they get out of all this ?
The author known for her descriptive writing does not fail to create the visual imageries be it the foothills of himalayas or the sandy deserts. But what stands out to me in both books is how she portrayed Lakshmi.
That teeny tiny bit of romance between Malik and Nimmi which makes you think is it there or no..But yes can sense that but its sweet.
I’m really awaiting the release of the sequel that I surely know is going to supercede the two books.
Naithy Cherozil is a rich and successful business woman from Mumbai who marries the young and handsome model Tony D’Souza after the death of her spouse. Little does she know that the ideal sex slave of her husband is the sleeper cell of a terror outfit. Events in her life take unforeseen turns as the male Mata Hari is activated.Prem Rollands is a ‘Kalari’ exponent and a brilliant student whose world revolves around his brother Arun. Things go awry when the police kill Arun under mysterious circumstances. Prem kills the inspector in retribution and is on the run. He is on the lookout to find the dark secrets leading to Arun’s death. Prem must avenge those who have plotted to kill his brother.Eighteen year old Alice Cherozil knows more about computers and mystery games than a girl of her age. Her life falls apart when her mother is hospitalised and in a coma. She is playing the ultimate mystery game of her life as the web of secrets surrounding two precious diamonds and her stepfather threaten to destroy her family. She overcomes the moral dilemma to kill her stepfather. Alice must outwit the underworld and stay ahead of all to save her mother’s life or the guilt of her failure will haunt her forever.As the lives of Naithy, Prem and Alice cross each other they must retain their faith and protect their beloved ones, even at the cost of their own lives.
A master piece from the Best-selling and Award -winning author of Men and Dreams int he Dhauladhar .A riveting saga of love, lust, betrayal, intrigue and revenge.
Review
Set in a contemporary mood style the novel is a fast paced thriller. The second from the author of Men and Dreams in The Dhauladhar . Based on the idea of keeping faith and notion of being one’s loved person, the novel has all elements like love, suspense, thriller, violence encompassed within it.
The opening where Alice Cherozil holds a knife remembering a passage from the bible is where it all starts. A gory and a deep intensive description about how she first contemplates and then proceeds with a firm determination wherein she ends up murdering her step-father Tony Dsouza.
How Tony becomes her step-father is altogether a different story wherein her mother Naithy who loses her husband as one of the victim’s of the Mumbai terror attack. She marries Tony, a model and ended up becoming him sex slave. Thereafter she slips into coma post an accident.
There is yet another story plot simultaneous wherein two brothers(Arun and Prem) who fled with money raping Naithy. Arun on the other hand is killed by the police for which Prem seeks revenge and is waiting upon a chance to avenge his brother’s death.
An action packed sequence follows as Alice does not foresee a lot things when she charted the plan to murder , Tony. But she finally managed to kill him and runs away. Prem looks to kill both Alice and Naithy and God it makes you wonder for a second why on earth all this is happening.
The plot narrows down to some underworld connections which seemingly makes it appear like a British political drama which will all the more leave you gaping and roll the eye balls on multiple occasions. Trust me I don’t remember the number of times I did that.
Even though I found the novel gripping and the plot to be intriguing I needed a break at times, just because everything was going overboard for me. Too many storylines which seem to run parallel and lot of motives which underlie bringing into picture more characters seeking revenge for one another.
I still couldn’t decipher myself as to who I should be putting forth as the protagonist because there were a lot many characters that seemed important at the spur of the moment and then vanished.
The book does have some loose ends but that does not stop you from finishing it. I found the language a bit difficult and it being in the second person narrative , took me time to comprehend what was happening. But applaud to the descriptive nature of writing style.
The book cover is well designed with a blood drop dripping from heart shaped diamond kind of giving you a hint of what can be expected.
Kochery C. Shibu is a retired naval officer. A graduate from the National Defence Academy he has held several important posts in the Indian Navy. Post his retirement he has executed hydroelectric projects in the Cauvery river basin in Karnataka, Beas river basin in Himachal and lately Teesta river basin in Sikkim. He holds a postgraduate degree in Defence Studies from Chennai University, and MA in English Literature from Pune University. Men and Dreams in the Dhauladhar is his debut novel. The technical content of the novel, namely the setting up of a hydro-project is drawn from his experience in these projects since 2005, as are many of the characters inspired from those whom he encountered at the project site. Kochery C. Shibu was born in Kochi and now lives in Bangalore with his wife and daughter.
That Madras Mom 