Bye, Bye Pimple Mania. Hello Clear Skin!

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Pimple... Again?!

Pimple! An irritating word, isn't it?!

Although having pimples is not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress for anyone. And being a girl, you always desire clear and pretty skin for that perfect selfie or group photos. So for me, the flare up of pimples is a serious threat, emotionally!

Living with pimples? - On no! You just want to hide away! You are aware of your looks and how you appear to others, and it's natural to want to look your best. You fight it bravely in your teens, accepting that it is an unavoidable price you pay for growing up! They call it  'puberty.' But pimples haunt even adults.

You have an important meeting or an occasion or a date lined up; you look in the mirror and BAM! you see a full-fledged honking mode pimple on your forehead or cheek! Then those spots begin to hurt, become swollen, red and hot. Greasy skin and pimples are such confidence-killers. They make you go crazy and bring times when you don't want to leave your house and just moan over it, alone! 

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I go weak when it comes to being confident, when I'm attacked by - PIMPLES. For me, I guess, it's a vicious cycle: Stress-pimples-stress-pimples and so on! Just when you think your "bad skin" days are over, pimple attack strikes again.

What troubles is not that we get pimples, but the scars they leave behind. And I will sound freaky, but you want to get rid of those high point monsters on your face so soon that in panic, you are tempted to prick and squeeze them till they burst, which is even a worse way.

You wish to expend all your time and money in getting rid of those monsters. I tried several things too. I visited several dermatologists, waited in queues to get some magic solution from them for my bad spotted skin. But alas, none satisfied my quench for the magic solution. They applied chemical peels, skin creams but it gets unaffordable sometimes and even itchy to your skin!

As you save your skin from the corrosive acids from the mouths of toxic people, also save it from the harsh, bumpy pimples and maintain it beautiful and supple!

My last resort was Garnier PureActive Neem Facewash and thankfully it has been the last and final resort indeed! It is soothing green gel-based face wash. This product keeps pimples and acne at bay and is superior and highly effective in reducing spots. I saw positive results within a week's use! It also freshens you up with the cooling effect - thanks to Neem in it! The fragrance is pleasant and refreshing.

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Neem is an evergreen tree and is known to have antibacterial properties. The curative power of neem and tea tree oil in Garnier Pure Active Neem Facewash purifies and deep cleans pores to remove impurities, fight excess oil and dirt caused by pollution, giving you pimple free clear skin.

Get rid of those pimple smacks and unwanted blemishes, make that splash of water on your face more good with #GarnierPureActive Facewash.

This miraculous product helps my skin fight against pollution, makes it soft and keeps it safe by -

1.       Fighting bacteria

2.      Fighting pollution

3.      Removing oil

It is suitable for both men and women. Its organic and chemical-free nature keeps you away from impurities. Also being soap-free, it does not rob the skin of its natural oils, hence does not leave your skin dry and prevents recurrence of pimples.

With Garnier Pure Active Neem Facewash in tow as my companion and protector, I am a beautiful woman with a clear skin and a clean heart. This affordable product has been a boon to me, really!

Ratings -4.8/5

P.S: This post is my entry for contest powered by Indiblogger! Details: http://bit.ly/GarnierPureActiveNeemWebsite

Book Review #25 : Choked!

Author: Bharath Sarma Rejeti

Publishing year: 2013

Publication: Partridge India

Pages: 172
Genre: Fiction

Blurb:

What will you do when someone chokes you off? 

It happened to him, a victim of a conspiracy. He was all alone, vulnerable, and pitted against the mighty and juggernaut, but being strong was the only option he had. He knew that it would be difficult to win, but quitting the fight would be devastating. He had too many things at stake – a non-negotiable promise, his land, life, and livelihood. 

Unrelentingly, he began the revolt with just an indestructible desire to win. It was indeed a war between two unique men – one preferred to confront head-on, and another chose to be invisible. The war was also one of its kind – the victory was not in plotting violence but in terrorising the enemy. 

This is the story of a small businessman who was pushed to fight with a corporate gorilla. For more clues on the conspiracy and war, visit: www.facebook.com/chokedthebook.

Review:

Nice execution and narration of the plot based on daily happenings. More cinematic. Choked! is a fictional novel with a high level of technical details, I loved it!

The cover is illustrative and gives hint about the revolt you can expect in the book.

Relevant context and a lucid, credible writing style. The book is nail-bitingly entertaining and gripping. It keeps the reader's anxiety level high. Slowly, you start visualizing the characters.

Interestingly, the book is close to reality and informative. A perfect blend of revenge and suspense. This book even teaches you many things. 

A book worth reading. Nice business fiction!

Author's words:

1. Choked! is designed to tell readers that everything in life happens for a good reason. You need to experience the moments of life, instead of classifying the events as good or bad right away.

2. The second message is at a pragmatic level. Adverse events of life bring out the real character in you. Just as positive influences, adverse events too could define a purpose in life. You cannot quit, but fight until you win in such pursuits.

3. The last message is that success in life is rarely an individual effort. You need to engage the world around you in accomplishing something.

Ratings: 3/5

Bharath Sarma Rejeti

Bharath Sarma Rejeti is a marketing professional and works with a software services company in India. The focus of his fiction writing is on integrating storytelling techniques with everyday business stories and creating drama. Bharath lives in Bengaluru, and Choked! is his debut novel.

Buy the book from here: 

http://www.amazon.in/Choked-Fight-Until-You-Win/dp/1482810638
http://www.flipkart.com/choked/p/itmdz6t3suweqjz6?pid=DGBDRZVQPDFGSUFW

P.S: This review was commissioned by the author in return of an honest review!

Book Review #24 : 60 Minutes

Author: Upendra Namburi 

Publisher: Westland Ltd 

Genre: Corporate Drama 

Price: Rs. 350 

Pages: 361

‘60 Minutes’ by Upendra Namburi is a corporate thriller/ business fiction. It’s an excellently conceptualized and well written book. If you are interested to know what happens at the top echelons of FMCG companies, this book is a must read. The solid story that the author has weaved around the corporate setting, and the pace with which the events unfold is very good. The cover page is attractive too. 

I loved the characterization; there are no good/ bad people. Everyone, including the protagonist, is shown as they actually are in real life: greedy and scheming. Everyone goes through the process of survival of the fittest. One can almost feel the pulse of their office rooms. They end up playing a deadly game with huge rewards, but equally huge risks. 

Rivalry and (personal) revenge, you know you get a lot of drama here. You should read this novel to understand what nonsensical levels people go to achieve their selfish motives. This is the side of corporate life that needs to be exposed to people and I appreciate the author for doing that. Altogether, an excellent book but the author should have presented a more believable climax. 

Professional networks and game plays, stock markets and millions of money, relationships and stress, domestic violence and infidelity- the author highlights all aspects. Obsession and revenge carried from the past is all what drives the scenes in the sixty minutes. Some happenings do seem without purpose. 

The book reinforces that everything is fair in love, war and corporate battle for supremacy. Ethics and integrity aren't always the merits. One needs lots of tactics to outsmart the competition, defend one's position and cover his/ her back. Friends and foes can swap positions in matter of minutes when money, job, reputations are at stake. 

Though it appeared to be a 60 minute event, every now and then incidents of past are introduced. So end to end, the story takes couple of years in total duration. The flashbacks are not in order, but are based on the specific incidents which serve as background for current developments. At 360 odd pages, this book seems a bit dragged. 

The author is a sales and marketing professional by himself and it seems that he has moulded the raw material of his life in the form of a book. His own experiences, his encounters with other corporate people, and the major events of corporate life - have all gone into this work. 

60 Minutes is high on emotions; disappointment, rejection, elation, fear, relief. It is a revealing window into corporate life in India, exposing the slime and deceit in corporate relationships, the backstabbing and the vested interests. It would make for an excellent Bollywood plot, with all the drama, subterfuge and intrigue. The writing style is simple and easy to grasp. However, I did spot some sloppy writing which some careful editing could have weeded out. 

The only thing with 60 minutes is that you will not be able to finish the book in 60 minutes. If you are fond of reading corporate drama, this one is a good pick. 

Rating - 3/5.

P.S: I would like to thank Blogadda for the opportunity to review this book. This review is a part of the biggest Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books! 

Thank You, God!

Thank you, God for everything,
The big things and the small,

And too often I accept your gifts,
Without any thanks or praise,
You send me blessings,
Each day in many ways.
Thank You, for giving me,
A lot more than my share.

Thank You for the little things,
That often come my way,
The things I take for granted,
But don’t mention when I pray.

The unexpected courtesy,
The thoughtful, kindly deed,
A hand reached out to help me..
In the time of sudden need.
Thank You for the “miracles”
I'm much too blind to see.

Book Review #23 : Lost In Pattaya

Author: Kishore Modak

Publisher: Grapevine India

Publication Year: 2014
ISBN: 9789381841228
Pages: 215

‘Lost in Pattaya’ is a work of brilliance! The title is perfect and sounds good too. It is a tale about a father’s search for his daughter, his guilt that almost destroys his career. It is about failed relationships and strange new relationships. The search for his daughter pushes Palash deeper into the world of human trafficking and prostitution. There were places where I hated him and felt justified for his loss and places where I felt bad for him too.  Whether or not he is able to find his daughter and even if he finds her, is it too late? These are some of the questions that will haunt you till you find out the answers.

I  liked Kishore Modak’s writing style, there was a surprise hidden around every paragraph! There are some nail biting adventurous moments in the book as well as some beautiful, heart touching moments. Though the title and cover page with a sad girl suggest that the story is about a lost girl, it is more about the father.

The book starts off with a medium pace but after a few pages, it becomes almost impossible to put it down. The author has blended adventure, suffering and emotions in proper proportions. The best part of the book is the way it portrays a father's unflinching love and sacrifice for his daughter. The story doesn’t terminate easily and there is a lot more in it! 

The best part about this book is it talks about people who are not perfect, who make mistakes and that’s what makes them more relatable. It’s a story of self-discovery in which the lead characters passed through various shades of life.

The concept of sex trade and involvement of mafia group is the main highlight of the story. The characterization done by author is strong as he peeks into the thoughts of a helpless man caught in addictions.

The book is an interesting casual read with strong plot and good narration. Although the plot is disturbing and violent, but Kishore manages to breeze the readers through the tough subject due to his gripping narration and mysterious pacing. The plight of a father and a man has been showcased rather convincingly through words.

The second half gets better when the mystery unfolds and it leads to strange revelations. The second half covers up for the slow beginning. It becomes more of a personal quest for Palash than for his daughter. There are narrations about the lanes of Pattaya, drug peddlers, prostitution and other dark alleys where you would never want to venture, but can be virtually explored through the book.

'Lost in Pattaya' offered me a new flavor which is quite different as well as interesting from the regular romantic, corporate drama books which I read so far. Read it for powerful narrations, good vocabulary, some magical sentences and to visit the darker side of the world. Recommended!

My ratings - 4/5

P.S: The book was received as part of Reviewers Programme on The Tales Pensieve.

Book Review #22 : He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him

Title: He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him
Author: Shikha
Publisher: Vitasta

Shreya – I'm a highly qualified Delhi girl earning an enviable salary.

My parents are having a tough time finding a suitable groom for me. However, recently they have a proposal from this very interesting guy from Mumbai. I almost get mesmerised when he starts talking to me. I think I like him very much.

Kunal – I'm owner of a textile company in Mumbai. My Mom wants me to get married. Again. She has recently suggested a suitable girl from Delhi. What my Mom doesn't know is that I've met Shreya before once in my life and I've been looking for her ever since. I have a vendetta to settle.

The author takes you along on a journey via roads of revenge, agony, remorse, attraction, titillation, tantalisation and romance. Do Shreya and Kunal make it, or do they fall prey to their past?

*************

A new love story to hit my shelf recently: He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him by Shikha.

I loved the cover! The title chosen by the author instantly pumps you to dig for more. It is about a strong woman who not only mends her marriage but the man too. Interesting, isn't it?

First of all, this isn't a typical lovey-dovey love story! It is an intriguing read that makes you effortlessly flip pages!

This is a story of twists and turns, where a woman is made a pawn by the very man she marries. It is fast paced and hits you emotionally! This book goes on to narrate the most authentic way of dealing with human relationships.

The book starts with finding a match through the arranged marriage route in this e-age world. It strikes a perfect balance between traditional values and modern outlook. One can relate to the story since beginning and can see resemblances from one’s own life or people around. Every now and then comes the jerk and you are transported to an amazing turn in the story. The novel fills you with a plethora of emotions. It takes you through a journey of suspense, revenge, love, hatred, attraction, agony, repentance, realisation and romance in 300 pages.

I loved the detailing that the author has put into explaining the facts. The plot of the book is well planned and everything is revealed at just the right time! I like thick books, and more even when they get better with each passing page!

Shikha has interwoven the personal relationships, not only restricting to a man and a woman, but to our society. There are no loopholes and the story flows linearly. Kudos to a debut author for such a flawless work.

Language used in the book is easy to comprehend. A witty read that will grab you from start to finish at one go. It will win your heart and linger your mind with all the positive thoughts about marriage. It is a complete package.

There are no villains in this book. All the characters are sketched flawlessly apart from the two main protagonists. A sweet book with a meaningful message. If you are bored with the usual love stories, this is the one you should get. An enjoyable, breezy read! Highly recommended.

My Ratings: 4.2/5

Kudos to Shikha for the out of the box, impressive trailer of the book. Check it out!

P.S: This review is for "The Bookaholics" (www.thebookaholics.in)

Beard-Sporter To A Clean Shaven Look!

Facts - A massive 80% of women surveyed indicate that they prefer to see the clean shaven face while 77% of women have opted not to kiss a man due to having a beard or stubble.

Beards and stubble are associated with hipsters because improbable facial hair fit well with the new pioneer element of hipsterness who don't have time to shave!

Nowadays, I find beards sprouting from the unlikeliest faces. Eeks! That's not fashion, men! Many men have formed the zealous conviction that their beards place them at an advantage with the ladies. Well, that's opposite to the facts!

Unfortunately, some guys have turned it into a fashion statement. Men tend to believe it makes them look more masculine. Amusingly, the beard has turned into the padded bra of masculinity because maybe it helps them appear 'big' (read: mature) somehow and 'push' their masculinity up! *pun intended*

Agreed, every beard has a story. Be it laziness or not finding a razor around or cherishing adulthood or showing off the exam pressure or sporting a scientist look.

Honestly, if a man is really confident with his sexuality, he should not try to prove it through facial hair but with intelligence, wit and by making a woman feel special through his efforts. We, women go to great lengths to get ready for that big first date and make a lasting impression, so should men!

***************

Ashar hadn't shaved for 2 weeks now. At first it seemed like a nice change of pace, but now I hate the hairy, face-hugging alien that’s taken over his face. I feel like my husband's face is like a million tiny needles poking me. Despite repeatedly telling him, he kept saying that it suited him. I agreed. It did suit him. He did look hot and tempting. But that's not the way one goes to work. Most importantly, Aliya. Our one year old daughter; she doesn't find Ashar's stubble pleasant.

After urging him alot, Ashar shaved this morning! He affectionately came to Aliya covering his face with a towel. Aliya lifted the towel to be confronted by a complete stranger! She simply said, 'Oh!' in her innocent voice!

Ashar repents of having lost out on fun time with Aliya. Aliya now chuckles comfortably in her daddy's arms to have her clean shaven daddy back! She looks her father up and down, gently caresses his freshly shaven skin, it’s as if she looks into his clean and pure soul. My beautiful baby proves her unconditional love as she rests her head on her daddy’s face in one of the most amazing and emotional moments. My Aliya now plays peek-a-boo with her father again. She's a Daddy’s Girl!

Gentlemen, now your turn. #WillYouShave? Grab your Gillette razor today!

Check this ultra cute video of a Baby Girl's Response to Daddy's First Shave:

P.S: This post is a part of #WillYouShave activity at BlogAdda in association with Gillette

Preethi Venugopal (http://tulipsandme.blogspot.in/) tagged me to write this post for the #WillYouShave activity by Gillette. 

I wish to tag -
http://karan-sampat.blogspot.in/ (Karan Sampat) 
https://ashadeofpen.wordpress.com/ (Shruti Fatehpuria)
http://www.anitaexplorer.com/ (Anita S)
http://jyotsnabhatia.blogspot.in/ (Jyotsna Bhatia) to take up this challenge.

Write a blog on any of these themes-

1. Missed chances- Stories or instances where you missed out on an opportunity because of a non-shaven face

2. Luck or Confidence?- Will you leave your fate in the hands of destiny or will you step up and say yes to a well- groomed face to be at your best everyday? #WillYouShave?

Ladies, you have a say in this too! Write a blog post about the men in your life on the following themes.

1. An instance when a stubble came in the way of a man's chance to make a good impression

2. An instance when a well groomed look ensured that they struck gold on an opportunity given to them

Last date for entries is midnight of 1st December!