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

1. Kama Ayurveda Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment

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

2. Mother Sparsh 30 Herb Hair Oil

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

3. Kesh King Scalp and Medicine Ayurvedic Oil 

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

4. Forest Essentials Ayurvedic Herb Enriched Head Massage Oil

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

5. Khadi Natural Bhringraj Herbal Hair Oil

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

6. Parachute Advanced Ayurvedic Gold Hair Oil

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

7. Biotique Bio Bhringraj Therapeutic Oil

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

My final verdict!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Aroma Magic Grapefruit Face Wash

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

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

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

6. Khadi Natural Orange & Lemongrass Herbal Face Wash

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

7. Himalaya Herbal Neem Face Wash 

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

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

For new mothers, the initial few months are anxiety-filled and nerve-wracking due to the never-ending mommy duties and ensuring to do right by their newborn! It becomes imperative for new parents to ensure that their little ones do not wail in discomfort especially when it comes to leaky diapers or sneaky little rashes on their sensitive skin. The delicate skin of newborn babies can sometimes become red or inflamed due to the kind of wipes used while cleaning their face or body. Therefore, one should consider investing in the right baby wipes that are available in the market that will not only work best for your little ones but also aid you in always keeping up with their gentle skincare game! 

1. Paraben-Free

2. Hypoallergic

3. Wipes Material

4. pH Balance

5. Fragrance-Free

6. Soap-free

7. Dermatologically Tested 

8. Overall Packaging

9. Usage

10. Thickness

With so many options available in the market, it can get confusing at times as to which wet wipes suit your needs and should you opt for which is why in my today's post, I have curated a list of the top 5 unscented pure water baby wipes that are specially created for new-born babies with normal to sensitive skin. 

1. Mother's Sparsh 99% Unscented Pure Water Baby Wipes

Mother Sparsh 99% unscented pure water wipes top my list of the best baby wipes available in the market without a doubt. These are the #FirstWaterWipes having 99% water content, which makes them most hydrating and safe for a newborn baby. With no chemicals, the Mother's Sparsh wipes are made of plant-based #MedialGradeCloth and water that not only help in proper cleaning of the delicate skin but also makes it non-allergic/non-reactive to the baby’s skin. 

Featuring an unscented, super soft fabric these pure water baby wipes are three times thicker than usual wipes thereby making it a great option in wipes. I especially love the fact that these come with a water-based formula that provides gentle touch to a baby's skin, preventing unwanted rashes. Being Fragrance-free also makes it a product for the win! The #UnscentedWaterWipes are uniquely designed to lock in moisture for prolonged wetness. The moisture lock lid packaging is not only a smart feature but extremely handy for frequent use as well as travels. Crafted for normal to sensitive skin, the Mother's Sparsh 99% Unscented Pure Water Baby Wipes can be effortlessly used to cleanse a baby's hand, mouth and body while at the same time maintaining the utmost hygiene health of the little ones! 

Since Mother Sparsh wipes are made up of plant derivatives, they are safe for use on babies since birth. Apart from being dermatologically tested, these are 100% biodegradable and are equally safe for the environment! 

Priced at INR 299 for a pack of 72 wipes, you can buy Mother Sparsh 99% unscented pure water baby wipes on the #mothersparsh website.

2. Baby Dove Rich Moisture Baby Wipes

Priced at INR 135 for a pack of 50 wipes, you can get these online on Amazon. 

3. Huggies Cucumber and Aloe Vera Baby Wipes

These baby wipes contain the natural goodness of Aloe vera and Vitamin E which makes the wipes soft and gentle for the baby’s skin. They are highly absorbing and have just the right amount of thickness that ensures mess-free cleaning while at the same time ensuring that baby's skin is healthy. You must consider investing in these for their high quality, super absorbent texture as well as soothing formula.

Priced at INR 220 for a pack of 72 wipes, these can be bought online as well as from any store located near you. 

4. Himalaya Gentle Baby Wipes

Boasting of an Ayurveda formula, these gentle baby wipes from Himalaya are clinically tested and are mild on a baby's skin. These wipes contain extracts of Indian Lotus and Aloe vera which help in gently cleansing the baby’s skin thereby preventing it from drying while maintaining its natural moisture. They are also alcohol and silicon free and are recommended to use on babies with normal skin type. 

Priced at INR 175 for a pack of 72 wipes, you can purchase these online on Amazon.

5. Mamaearth India's First Organic Bamboo Based Baby Wipes

Priced at INR 249 for a pack of 72 wipes, you can get these online on Amazon.

Of all the wipes my vote goes to Mother Sparsh 99% Unscented Pure Water Baby Wipes which are perfect for your baby's day to day needs as they gently cleanse the baby's skin leaving it soft, supple, and nourished. The Mother Sparsh 99% Pure Water Baby Wipes are as gentle as cotton and water thereby making it the best alternative to use for a baby’s skin while on the go! They are earth-friendly and biodegradable, what more can one ask for in wipes! This quality makes disposing of them of easier and worry-free.

While the coronavirus pandemic continues to take hold across the globe, personally for me there has been a lot of focus on emotional well-being and positivity using the medium of beauty and self-care! I have loved how so many of my favourite brands as well as content creators have come together to advocate the philosophy of total well being while encouraging consumers to continue looking and feeling their best. In my today's post, I want to mention one such very promising skincare product- the Dermafique Bio Cellular Face Masque by ITC that has not only helped me address my skin concerns in the quickest way possible but has also helped as stress relief in this anxiety-filled period from the comfort of my home. 

The concentration of active ingredients plays a great part in improving our skin's overall appearance and texture. This is why I place the Dermafique bio cellular masks on the top of my vanity list. One of the most beneficial properties of bio-cellulose is its hydrophilicity — the affinity to attract water. This makes our mask fabrics pliable and able to adhere to your skin very tightly, like an occlusive dressing. When you touch a bio-cellulose mask fabric it is extremely moist, and when you apply one it will quickly deliver a refreshing, cool sensation to your skin. It feels great and really enables you to relax.

Apart from being organic and 100% bio-degradable, these Dermafique face masks come in a total of three variants basis your skin concerns and requirements. I personally love using the Dermafique Bio-Cellulose TONE PERFECTING MASK that not only improves my skin complexion by reducing the appearance of blemishes and dark spots but also helps my skin look more radiant within a few minutes of use! The other two variants include the CHARCOAL MASQUE that offers deep pore cleansing which helps unclog pores and removes dead skin, leaving it cleaner, brighter, and healthier. Then you also have the PORE TIGHTENING MASQUE that detoxifies and purifies the skin, making it look smoother, softer, and firmer. 

It’s is superbly important to have products that not only make your skin look good but also repair or rather renew it in the long run. No matter what the weather is, the bio-cellulose face masque by Dermafique can protect sensitive skin, improve skin tone and texture, and mask imperfections. Priced at INR 300 each, these are dermatologically tested on the Indian Skin. 

To all my readers and my fav OG wives, whether it’s a pendi LTC holiday to Goa or a random road trip from Belgaum, Pune- Goa is always a good idea! I have a Goa itinerary that I have passed on in so many of our course-mate groups, friends emails that is by far tried and tested and only keeps getting better with time! So without any further adieu, here’s how it goes...

North Goa Itinerary

Beaches- Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Vagator, Anjuna to be covered

NOTE: Calangute and Candolim are located within a distance of 3 Kms thus making it a great option for the hotel stay and covering a lot of eateries in between.

HOTEL OPTIONS:

NOTE: Always a great option to opt for breakfast and bed, makes it a more economical. 

CANDOLIM- 

1. Fortune Acron Regina Candolim- ITC hotel (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED & we stayed here as well)

2. Phoenix Park Inn Resort, Candolim Road

1 & 2 are have been personally experienced and below are a few more options.

3. Novotel Hotel, Candolim

4. Lemon Tree Hotel, Candolim

CALANGUTE-

1. Hard Rock Hotel

2. ibis Styles Goa Calangute Resort

3. Sinq Beach Resort

PLACES TO PARTY IN NORTH GOA

1. Visit Cohiba in Candolim at NIGHT. Check out for gigs and reserve a table prior to arrival. Must try their hookahs 

2. For clubbing and Bollywood style music- Visit Club LPK. Go after 10:30-11 pm for a good scene. 

3. On Baga Beachside, Cafe Red Frog is also a good place to visit at night. There are Cabanas that you can reserve, enjoy dinner by the beachside and it turns into a beach party place post 10 pm.

4. Cafe Liiliput is again highly recommended beachside shack at night. it's on Anjuna beach.

5. There is also Tito's lane in Baga beach wherein you can do club/pub hopping as there are multiple places back to back that has live bands, dances, Dj nights happening all at once. Do check out Cafe Capetown located at this lane as well.

6. Club Cabana is also a good club to visit (it was shut when we visited but is full during peak season)

PLACES FOR GOOD LUNCH/BRUNCH/Dinner

1. Visit Brittos at Baga for best seafood, chicken at Baga beach. Sit there until the sundowner and enjoy the beach as well

2. Visit Curlys at Anjuna beach- again a shack known for fresh produce and beach views. 

3. Antares and Thalassa at Vagator. Both are next to each other and are expensive but can be checked out on one of the days. Offer beach views and hosts a good crowd.

4. Fisher man's cove at Candolim

5. Fat Fish - An airy and pleasant spot to grab a good Goan lunch. One of the best seafood thalis around, the variety you get with this one is unbeatable.

6. Sher-e-punjab is quite famous for north indian food and has its restaurants across GOA 

CASINO- MUST VISIT ON YOUR LIST

DELTIN ROYALE

If you have time on you then make sure to visit Floating Casino at Panjim, GOA.

There are many options available, however, the most recommended Casio is Deltin Royale (Its the most expensive one and offers the best kind of service, games, entertainment, drinks, and food that is included and chips to play casino games in the package)

You can also visit Panjim and stay at a hotel near Casino or book a suit there itself. Don't opt for any other one as this is best on entertainment even if you don't play games or gamble. 

Make sure to reach the Casino by 7 pm to enjoy it to the fullest as it takes time to reach to the Casino ship from the ferry as well. 

1. When in PANJIM, you can also eat at Fisherman's Wharf for a good lunch

2. for the vegetarian option you can explore Kamat's restaurant

3. Mandovi restaurant

Incase you do follow this or like my recommendations, then make sure to follow me on my Instagram for life, decor, shopping recommendations and much mire with my username- @guiltybytes.