beauty – That Madras Mom

November 20, 2025November 26, 2025

What not to miss in Nykaa Pink Friday Sale

Spending on skincare and makeup once in a while is more than just indulgence,it’s selfcare. The key is to be mindful and make smart choices. That’s why beauty sales like Nykaa’s Pink Friday Sale are such a wise option. You get to treat yourself to luxe brands and everyday essentials without straining your budget. Think of it as the perfect time to refresh your vanity, stock up on staples, or finally splurge on that cultfavorite product you’ve been eyeing.

The Nykaa Pink Friday Sale is here with up to 60% off across luxe makeup, skincare, bath & body, and haircare essentials. Below is a curated guide to the must have deals that beauty lovers shouldn’t miss.

✨ Luxe Makeup Steals

MAC – Iconic lipsticks and Studio Fix foundations are available at flat 25–30% off. Perfect time to restock cult shades like Ruby Woo.

NARS – Their radiant creamy concealer and blushes (Orgasm, anyone?) are discounted up to 35%.

Estée Lauder – The legendary Double Wear Foundation is part of the sale, with luxe skincare minis bundled in.

Laneige – The Lip Sleeping Mask and Water Bank Cream are marked down by 20–25%, ideal for winter hydration.

🌿 Skincare Essentials

CeraVe – Hydrating Cleanser and Moisturizing Cream are available at up to 30% off. Great for barrier repair.

Beauty of Joseon – The Glow Serum and Relief Sun SPF are trending, with 20% discounts.

Cetaphil – Gentle Skin Cleanser and Moisturizing Lotion are budget friendly with 25% off.

Minimalist – Actives like Vitamin C and AHA PHA Peeling Solution are discounted up to 30%, making it a smart time to experiment with targeted skincare.

🛁 Bath & Body Indulgence

Sol de Janeiro – The Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and Cheirosa body mists are part of luxe bundles with 20–25% off.

Nykaa Wanderlust – Affordable shower gels and body lotions in fun fragrances (Japanese Cherry Blossom, Mediterranean Sea Salt) are buy 1 get 1 during the sale.

💇 Haircare Highlights

L’Oréal Paris – The Dream Lengths and Extraordinary Oil ranges are discounted up to 30%.

WishCare – Their Fermented Rice Water Shampoo & Conditioner are available at 20% off, perfect for strengthening hair naturally.

🛍️ Smart Shopping Tips

Bundle buys: Nykaa often adds luxe minis with fullsize purchases—great for travel kits.

Wishlist strategy: Add products to your cart early; popular shades and serums sell out fast.

Stack savings: Use Nykaa gift cards or bank offers for extra discounts.

As a skincare and makeup enthusiast (and proud Nykaa affiliate), I see the Pink Friday Sale as more than just discounts, it’s a chance to curate your beauty shelf thoughtfully. Whether you’re investing in luxe staples like Estée Lauder’s foundation or stocking up on barrier friendly cleansers from CeraVe, this sale balances indulgence with practicality.

My advice: mix one luxe splurge with a few everyday essentials. That way, your haul feels both exciting and sustainable.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

March 13, 2025

10 Post-Holi Activities to Keep the Festive Spirit Alive

Holi, the festival of colors, is an exciting celebration that leaves us drenched in vibrant hues and joyous memories. Once the last gulal has settled, the fun doesn’t have to end.

Here are ten things to do after playing Holi to keep the festive spirit alive:

1. Clean Up and Refresh: The first step after Holi is a thorough cleanup. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to wash off the colors. Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness caused by the colors. Refresh yourself with a cool shower to feel rejuvenated. Wash off the colours from your hair and indulge in a nourishing hair mask to keep your mane happy.

2. Hydrate: After all the fun and frolic, it’s essential to rehydrate. Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or fresh fruit juices to replenish fluids and flush out any toxins. It’s the beginning of summer and you don’t want to end up getting dehydrated, so keep your hydration levels in check.

3. Indulge in a Feast: Holi is synonymous with delicious treats. Relish traditional Holi dishes like gujiya, thandai, puran poli, and dahi bhalla. These delicacies will make your taste buds dance with joy. Indulge in the delicacies, but also be mindful of what you consume.

4. Rest and Recharge: Playing Holi can be exhausting. Take some time to relax and unwind. A short nap or some quiet time will help you recharge and recover from the festivities. Don’t underestimate the power of a power nap which can help you rejuvenate.

5. Pamper Your Skin: Post-Holi skincare is crucial. Apply soothing aloe vera gel or rose water to calm any irritation. A homemade face pack with yogurt, honey, and turmeric can work wonders. Colors can sometimes be harmful, so be patient in giving your skin the time it needs to heal. Off-makeup for one or two days will also be the right way to let your skin breathe. But don’t forget sunscreen when you step out.

6. Reflect and Share: Take a moment to reflect on the memories made during Holi. Share photos and stories on social media or with friends and family to keep the celebration alive. It’s such a fun time to be with people. Share the love, fun times and happy moments with each other.

7. Enjoy a Movie Marathon: Gather your friends or family and watch some classic Holi-themed movies. From “Sholay” to “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani,” these films will keep the festive vibe going.

8. Connect with Nature: Step outside and enjoy the beauty of nature. A leisurely walk in the park or a visit to a nearby garden can be refreshing and serene. Nothing rejuvenates faster than nature’s touch.

9. Plan a Meet-Up: Organize a post-Holi get-together with friends or family. Share laughs, stories, and leftover treats. It’s a great way to extend the celebration.

10. Set New Goals: Holi signifies new beginnings. Use this time to set new goals and intentions. Whether it’s a personal project or a professional aspiration, let the spirit of Holi inspire you to start anew.

Holi is not just a day; it’s a feeling that lingers. These post-Holi activities will help you savour the festive spirit and create lasting memories. Enjoy every moment and keep the colors of joy alive!

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

November 21, 2024

Embracing Gender-Neutral Beauty: Breaking Down Traditional Norms

The world is constantly evolving and the beauty industry is no exception. A thing that is more exciting and progressive in the line of trends we’re seeing today is the rise of gender-neutral beauty. Gone are the days when beauty products were strictly categorized for a specific gender. Now, the focus is on inclusivity, self-expression, and breaking down the barriers of traditional beauty norms. Here’s why gender-neutral makeup and skincare are making waves and how you can embrace this trend.

Breaking Traditional Beauty Norms

In the early days, beauty products were marketed in a gendered manner, with distinct packaging that included color, scents, and formulations for men and women. However, this binary approach is currently being challenged by a new wave of beauty brands and consumers who believe that beauty is for everyone, irrespective of gender. The idea is quite simple: Beauty products should cater to individual needs and preferences, not conform to societal expectations.

The Rise of Gender-Neutral Products

Several beauty brands are leading the charge in creating gender-neutral products. These products are designed to be versatile and suitable for all skin types and tones. Here are some key aspects that define gender-neutral beauty products:

Inclusive Formulations: Products that address common skin concerns like hydration, acne, and aging, without being tailored to a specific gender. Both men and women face issues with their skin and need solutions.
Minimalistic Packaging: Simple and elegant packaging that appeals to everyone, avoiding stereotypical colors or designs. By making the packaging gender-neutral, the reach of the product almost doubles up.
Universal Scents: Fragrances that are fresh and neutral, steering clear of overly floral or musky scents traditionally associated with specific genders. And also men and women don’t get embarrassed when picking up scents that were meant for the other gender cause everything’s become neutral and doesn’t seem to look odd.

Top Gender-Neutral Beauty Brands

Fenty Beauty: Rihanna’s brand has been a trailblazer in promoting inclusivity with its extensive range of shades that cater to all skin tones.
Glossier: Known for its minimalist approach, Glossier offers products that focus on enhancing natural beauty and can be used by anyone.
Milk Makeup: Emphasizing self-expression, Milk Makeup creates products that are fun, versatile, and suitable for all.

How to Embrace Gender-Neutral Beauty

Focus on Skincare Needs: Choose products based on your skin type and concerns rather than marketing labels. Look for ingredients that address your specific needs, whether it’s hydration, acne control, or anti-aging.
Experiment with Makeup: Makeup is a form of self-expression. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks, regardless of societal norms. Bold eyeshadows, neutral lip balms, and highlighters can be enjoyed by everyone. I really love how brands have approached male influencers to promote new launches and man it’s so cool that we even get to learn much cooler hacks from them.
Support Inclusive Brands: Seek out and support brands that promote gender neutrality and inclusivity. Your purchasing decisions can help drive the industry towards more inclusive practices.
Normalize Conversations: Talk about your beauty routine and products with friends and family, regardless of their gender. Normalizing these conversations helps break down gender barriers. It’s not wrong to discuss skincare or makeup in a mixed-gender group.

The Impact of Gender-Neutral Beauty

Moving towards gender-neutral beauty is not just a trend, but a shift towards a more inclusive and accepting society. We’re moving away from rigid gender rules and allowing individuals to express themselves freely by embracing products that can be used by everyone. This is what we call inclusivity which fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment, encouraging everyone to feel confident in their skin.
The rise of gender-neutral beauty is an uplifting change in the industry, and it’s here to stay. By breaking down traditional beauty standards, we’re paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse world. So go ahead, explore, experiment, and embrace the beauty that knows no boundaries.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.

November 8, 2024

My Shopping Experience at Tira Beauty: A Beauty Lover’s Paradise

I recently visited Tira Beauty, a new entrant in the beauty retail space, and I must say, it was an experience like no other! Located in the bustling Phoenix Market City, Velachery in Chennai, Tira Beauty offers a unique and personalized shopping experience that sets it apart from other beauty stores. Ever since I knew that they were opening up, I couldn’t contain the excitement in me to visit them.

The Store Layout

As soon as I walked into the store, I was greeted by a sleek and modern layout. The store is divided into different sections for makeup, skincare, haircare, and more. Each section is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for. This way of clutter free display made it easier to shop.

The Beauty Vending Machine

One of Tira Beauty’s standout features is its beauty vending machine. This innovative machine allows shoppers to select a product sample and collect it easily. All you need to do is register and enter an OTP, and you’re good to go! It’s a fun and easy way to try out new products. Don’t I sound like an excited kid who just got a souvenir at the fair?

The Fragrance Finder

Another remarkable feature is the fragrance finder, an AI-powered console that helps users explore scents effortlessly. You select an olfactory note, and the machine identifies it, providing a range of perfume options available in the store. This makes finding the perfect fragrance a breeze. What a wonderful way to get options of scents to your liking instead of searching through the aisles.

Smart Mirrors

Tira Beauty also has smart mirrors that allow customers to try makeup under different lighting conditions. This ensures that you make the right choices for your skin tone and lighting environment. It’s a great way to see how a product will look in real life. This is so helpful especially when you want to purchase foundations and skin tints. If you pick the wrong shade, you’re totally spoiled. Thank goodness for innovations like these that help in making it convenient for us to shop.

Skin Analysis and Recommendations

The store also offers a makeup try-on station connected to a tablet that analyzes your skin. It rates factors like dullness, UV damage, and oiliness, and calculates your skin age to offer tailored skincare and makeup product recommendations. This personalized approach is a game-changer for beauty shopping. This is a game changer, makes your job much easier so that you don’t spend long hours.

Hair Station

For those in a hurry, Tira Beauty has a hair station powered by Dyson for quick blowouts. It’s perfect for office-goers seeking a last-minute style fix. If you’re not sure whether to invest or no, this is a great way to try on the tools. Oh yeah, step in before going to a party and you’re all set(wink).

Gift Customization Station

Near the billing counter, there’s a gift customization station where you can add a personal touch by engraving initials, names, or messages on glass-body products. It’s a thoughtful way to make your gifts even more special. To my friends who are like-minded skincare and makeup girlies, this is a boon.

Overall Impression

My overall experience at Tira Beauty was fantastic. The combination of innovative technology, personalized service, and a wide range of products made it a beauty lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or a skincare aficionado, Tira Beauty has something for everyone.

I highly recommend checking out Tira Beauty if you’re in the area. It’s a one-stop shop for all your beauty needs, and the shopping experience is truly one-of-a-kind. I purchased a couple of products and you can check my skincare and makeup haul.

I hope you enjoyed this blog post! If you have any more requests or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.

January 13, 2023

5 must try makeup trends from tik tok

The beauty industry and makeup trends never sleep. The learning process of implementing new hacks or viral trends is no longer tough. Social media keeps you updated on trends and do not forget the tutorials to let you join the bandwagon of trends.

Though we did keep ourselves confined at home for years, the beauty and skincare industry kept coming up with new trends that kept the ball rolling. Not only these bring out creativity but a lot of these gave a refreshing turn to the monotonous makeup that we have been putting on all these years. Most importantly, a few hacks helped minimize the cost of product purchase and saved a lot of time in terms of the hacks used.

So here goes the list of 5 must try makeup trends from tik tok.

Glazed donut everything

Glazed donut skin . Image source : femina

The term sounds yummy, but the benefit it yields is more worthwhile. Hailey Bieber had to say that she does not want to look like a glazed donut when she hits the bed. A lot of us would want the same, not have full makeup on when we have the beauty sleep. So it’s advisable to cleanse off the makeup and moisturize the skin before you go to bed. So when you wake up your skin is glistening and glowing.

Red nails Theory

Since @girlbosstown popularized last year that red nails were getting her a lot of attention, the trend has been coming back. It attracts the opposite sex because they have pretty much seen their moms wearing those during the 90s and taking care of them which is the reason why they seem attracted.
#rednailtheory tag is full of women posting how it really worked for them.

Cold girl makeup

This viral trend is set to continue for some time longer though it became popular last year. The trend included applying blush from cheek to cheek and the tip of the nose giving a complexion flush during the winters when we come back from outside.

Wednesday Addams Glam

The goth glam comprising the ponytail, and smudgy eye makeup that Jenna Ortega portrayed in Netflix blockbuster Wednesday inspired thousands of beauty lovers to replicate the same. Beauty lovers eagerly anticipate the next season in Fall to get the trend.

Skin cycling

The trend is to improve the efficacy of the active ingredients and minimize irritation through rest periods. Starting with exfoliating on one night followed by retinoid on the second and then resting on the third and fourth. Night two is most beneficial for the skin and helps treat acne to eczema. 3 and 4 are recovery nights that can just be followed up with cleansing and moisturizing. But if you have dry skin, you can just lock moisture with suited products.

So here are some tried and tested successful trends that can keep you busy trying them out for the next couple of days if you are a makeup or a skincare enthusiast like me. Let me know in the comments if you would be trying or already tried any of these trends.