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No A Calorie Deficit Is Not All Bad

Something that most people get wrong in today's age of misinformation is that calorie deficit has to something miserable or bad. It's not a diet or some embodiment of the 90's heroin chic trend. It's not skipping out on nutrition and calling it self - control but math that's strategic made to work for your body not against it.

In a nutshell, a calorie deficit means you burn more calories than you consume. It's simple but it doesn't equate to sacrifice. If done right it will not leave you feeling deprived. It's about smart, sustainable choices that leave room for pleasure and fuel your body.

1.Stop Overcomplicating: For a sustainable calorie deficit balance is key. You don't need to starve or drastically cut down your plate.A moderate reduction in calories of around 200- 500 less than your maintenance calories will work. Focus on eating high quality, nutrient rich foods to fuel your body.

2.Mindful Of Macros: While the calorie number matters to an extent, the quality of your food is extremely important. Make sure to include protein at every meal doesn't matter if it's tofu, paneer, dal or eggs. It helps you feel full for longer and helps preserve muscle. Also, make sure to include healthy fats like olive oil and avocados for hormonal balance and carbs are your friends they will give you energy to get through the day.

3.Add, Do Not Subtract: The goal isn't to deprive yourself of the things you loved but to add habits that support your goals. Take a 15-minute walk after meals for better digestion. Try to resistance train 3 times a week to preserve your muscles. These are low-impact, sustainable habits that don’t just get results but will leave you feel great.

4.Intuitive Habits: A calorie deficit isn’t about restriction, it’s about listening to your body and it's needs If you’re constantly feeling hungry or fatigued, it’s a sign to reflect.It’s about finding the balance that keeps you energised without feeling sluggish.

When done right, calorie deficit isn’t a quick fix or a fad but a sustainable approach to feeling like the best version of yourself.

For more questions or additional information please contact glowandtell@gmail.com.

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Why You Need To Take Self- Care Sundays Seriously

We live in a time where every second hustle is romanticised, taking out time to slow down is nothing short of radical these days. This is why you need to start taking self- care Sunday's to reset at the end of the week. Here's a simple and doable ritual to calm your skin and hopefully next Monday blues too.

//https://in.pinterest.com/pin/2111131068631309/

1.Take A Bath That Feels Like A Spa: This is your main character moment, turn your bathroom into a sanctuary. Light your favourite candle that you have probably been waiting to use for the best moment but taking care of you is the best moment. Add bath salts, essential oils, or a luxe body scrub for a luxurious spa day at home.

2.Simple Skincare: Today is not your night to do the 15 step skincare regime, instead do a simple skincare routine. Massage your cleanser in. Apply a hydrating mask while journaling. Layer on serums your face while doing a relaxing face massage

3.Haircare: Your Hair is probably also tired from the exhausting week, put on a nourishing hair mask, , wrap it up in a towel, and let it marinate while you sip green tea or chamomile tea. Trust me your hair will thank you.

4.Try A Digital Detox: Take this one day to not doomscroll on Instagram but listen to that podcast that is dying in your to listen list, read a book, or catch up with your friend.

I mean if Blair Waldorf can take her self- care days so can we.

Remember, self- care is not selfish but essential and does not have to be elaborate. Do what feels right for you to wind down and makes you happy.

For any questions or additional information please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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The Summer Glow-Up Your Skin Deserves

As the sun lingers longer and iced lattes replace your hot cappuccino, your skincare routine needs a seasonal shift. Summer skin isn’t just about protection, it’s about a glow from within, and letting lightness take a center stage. Here are some tips that will help your skin not survive but thrive in summer.

//https://in.pinterest.com/pin/292522938315919849/

Start Fresh: Go for creamy cleansers that are lightweight, non-stripping gels that cleanse without sabotaging your barrier. Look for ingredients like green tea, centella, or rice water to soothe while they purify.

2.Hydrate Hydrate: Time to put the thick creams at the back of the dressing table, instead use water-based moisturisers that melt into the skin. So, you can achieve that dewy donut glazed skin everyone wants without looking greasy. Try one with hyaluronic acid or squalane.

3. Skipping SPF Is A Crime: No, your 30 SPF tinted moisturiser will not do, You need a proper sunscreen, broad-spectrum, at least SPF 50, preferably with a velvet finish and zero white cast. Slather generously, reapply if spending time outside.

4.Light Makeup: Summer calls for effortless makeup routines, ditch the full- coverage foundation for sheer skin tints that conceal while letting your skin breathe. Add a balmy gold highlighter and some cream blush on the high points of your face.

Summer skin doesn't mean chasing perfection instead let your natural beauty illuminate through. Tweak your skincare and beauty rituals a little for the season and let the sun do the rest.

How Is Your Summer Skin Feeling? Let's Chat In The Comments.

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Review - Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: Worth The Hype?

In a world overflowing with overnight miracle product, only a few products have attained true cult favourite status. Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask is one of them. Adorned in a pastel pots and whispering promises of supple, soft lips by morning, it’s become something of a nighttime essential for beauty influencers and now earned a much deserved spot on my nightstand too.

Price: Rs. 510

Where To Buy: Tira

The Formula : A silky and balm like formula infused with antioxidant-rich berry extracts, vitamin C, and Laneige’s signature Moisture Wrap technology. This is not just an ordinary lip mask, it revolutionizes self-care. The texture is the perfect balance of plush and pillowy, sinking in with a faint gloss and leaving behind a subtle, addictive sweetness.

Why It's Not A Want But A Need: Each night I swirled my finger into the luxe pink balm, applying it generously on my lips as the last step of my evening skincare routine. It has a nostalgic, candy like berry scent that feels indulgent without being overbearing. It not only smells magic but works like it too, it moisturised and hydrated my chapped lips overnight.

My Final Thoughts

A luxury in a very small pot but one that earns its keep.If your lips crave hydration, or your matte lipstick game is bordering on crusty and needs a primer, this is exactly what you need. Even though the price leans towards premium (Rs. 510 - 1200) depending on size, consider it a investment in timeless beauty.

Have you tried it yet? Let's chat in the comments

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Beyond H&M And Zara: Homegrown Instagram Clothing Stores You Should Be Following

It is a universally acknowledged truth that the main stars of all our closets are H&M And Zara, after all, for 90% of us it's the answer to all our clothing problems. But, what end's up happening is that super cute red dress you thought about wearing to a party? 5 other girls are wearing the same. So, if you're looking for something unique and fresh with an affordable price tag, it's time to put the Zara and H H&M trips on the back burner and explore the world of Instagram Clothing Stores.

1.@Mirchi By Kim

This brand, started by model Kimaya Singh, is everything you need. It screams fiery, bold and a little unhinged. It's impossible that you may have not come across the brand's iconic Lay's magic masala inspired bag, which was spotted in every Instagram Baddie's profile.

Prices: Start from 10K go up to 30K for some pieces.

Product Range: Mirchi By Kim Product Lines are defined by their unique designs and commitment to craftsmanship

1. Apparel: Variety Of Apparel Choices from tops, dresses and skirts with bold patterns and intricate bead work.

2. Accessories: Exquisite statement and tote bags that are sure to spice up any outfit

Shipping: Mirchi by Kim ships worldwide. Made-to-order items typically ship within 1 to 2 weeks. Delivery times vary by location.

2. @SummerSands.Co

Want to Channel Your Inner Ibiza Girl Dreams, Or look like the ocean muse, you need to check out Summer Sands ASAP! If you thought cool style cannot be bought at affordable prices think again.

Prices: Start From Rs. 1000 go up to Rs.3000

Product Range: Offers a diverse range of products

1. Dresses and Sets: The perfect collection of flowy dresses and sets, perfect for beach outings

2. Tops And Skirts: Want tops and skirts that help embody sun soaked days and salty breezes, they have the perfect collection

Shipping: To place an order, customers can browse the brand's Instagram account and send a Direct Message for the product they wish to purchase. They have various shipping, options to various locations all over India.

3.@Blue Brew

A Mumbai based fashion label where streets meet statement with a focus on sustainability, self-expression plus is any denim lover's dreamland. Founded in 2021 by Aditya Rathi, Anirudh Singh, and Sheetal Singh.

Prices: Start From Rs. 700 go up to Rs. 5,500

Product Range: They offer a diverse collection from of apparels that meet in between style and comfort.

1. Denim Jeans: Need Jeans? No Need To Look further, they have everything from boot cut, slim fit to avant-garde designs like the Half and Half slit jean.

2.Tshirts: Vast collection Of Tshirts and Baby Tee's From sequined martini baby tee to Brewing Bad Ideas Tank Top.

Shipping: They offer free shipping on prepaid orders across India and Offer 15 day return and exchange policy.

4.@Aespopp

An emerging street style brand that has fiery graphics, high quality fabric and affordable prices to create unique pieces for the fashion forward. The brand values individuality and creativity, which is reflected in all their designs.

Pricing: Products start from Rs.1000 go up to 4,000

Product Range: They offer a variety of items such as:

Graphic Tees: Made from 100% cotton French Terry fabric, these tees have unique screen prints.

Balaclava hoodies: Made from 380 GSM cotton and acid washed for that stone washed look

The brand focuses on comfort and style with high quality pieces ensuring the longevity of their items.

Shipping: Customers can explore Aespopp's latest collections and place orders through their official Instagram page, The brand offers free shipping on select items.

For any questions regarding this blog please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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Collagen Yes Or No?

A word that is recently being thrown around all over the Beauty gram is "Collagen". There's a good chance you have either seen K-pop idols and beauty influencers swearing by their daily scoop of collagen for their youthful and glowing skin. Now, if you are perplexed by what this new word in the beauty industry means, it's a type of protein that is responsible for skin elasticity. It also factors in joint and bone health. But with many influencers and brands pushing collagen supplements, it's worth asking, is this another beauty fad or something that you actually need?

What Is Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein of your body, It accounts for about 30% of your body’s total protein. Collagen is the primary building block of your body’s skin, muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments, and other connective tissues. It’s also found in your organs, blood vessels and intestinal lining.

Benefits Of Collagen

Collagen has several benefits beyond better skin

1. Improves and strengthens hair, skin, teeth and nails: Wrinkles and loose skin, stretch marks, cellulite are all a result of lower collagen. When you consume more of it, your skin will feel firmer.

2. Helps Repair Leaky Gut: If you're someone with a leaky gut, toxins can pass through your digestive tract into the rest of your body, which can imbalance the whole body's system. Collagen helps in sealing your intestines, and heal leaky gut.

3. Can increase metabolism: The amino acid glycine found in collagen helps convert glucose into energy and increase lean muscle. More lean muscle results in faster metabolism as people with a higher muscle mass tend to burn more fat

4. Collagen prevents joint pain and acts anti-inflammatory: Collagen functions much like the oil in an engine: It helps tendons and joints glide smoothly. Less collagen means swollen, stiff and painful joints. It has also been known to repair osteoarthritis pain.

How Should You Supplement Collagen

You can add collagen in your routine by consuming more foods high in it, The main sources of collagen in your diet will be foods high in protein such as beef, chicken, fish and eggshell membranes. Bone Broth is an excellent way to get collagen in your diet.

Or You Can Choose To Go For Collagen Supplements

1.Pure Marine Collagen By Yourhappylife

Price: Rs. 1,650.00

Where To Buy: YourHappyLife

2.Vegan Collagen (Tangy Amla) With Biotin & Vitamin C  By OZIVA

Price: Rs.899

Where To Buy: OZIVA

3.HK Vitals Skin Radiance Collagen

Price: Rs.840

Where To Buy: Hk Vitals

For more information regarding this blog please contact glowandtell@gmail.com.

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Beauty Gift Ideas For Mother's Day

Pamper Her For A Change With These Beauty must haves

Our Mom's spend years putting everyone else in their lives first, and today it's your chance to give back to her. Searching for the perfect gift for someone as important as her can feel like a difficult task, but it doesn't have to be. That's why I've curated the perfect list of beauty gifts for all kinds of moms whether she never skips her signature scent, or can't go about her day without a hydrating serum. This beauty must-haves are sure to make her feel loved, celebrated and pampered.

1.The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

Price: ₹2950

Where To Buy: Nykaa

After the age of 30 our body's collagen production starts to decrease, to make her skin feel young again like her heart, give her this Peptide Serum By The Ordinary, perfect for any skincare mom.

2. Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau De Parfum

Price: ₹9,300

Where To Buy: Tira

Have A Mom That's Old School and values tradition? There's Nothing Better Than the Original YSL Libre Perfume for her.

3.Guerlain Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Balm

Price:₹4200

Where To Buy:Nykaa

A classic gift is going back to the basics and getting your mom a hydrating sheer lipstick like Guerlain's Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Balm.

4.House of Beauty 7 Colors LED Silicon Face Mask

Price: ₹ 8,999

Where To Buy: House Of Beauty

No matter how technologically challenged your mom is, she is going to love this 7 colour LED Face Mask By House Of Beauty that targets skin issues like wrinkles, acne and dullness.

5.Manjishtha Mud By 82e

Price:₹1,800

Where To Buy: 82e

If you want to give your overworked mom a dose of little self- care, choose this Manjishtha Mud clarifying clay mask with manjishtha and bioflavonoids suitable for all skin types.

6.Shea Butter Hand Cream By L'occitane

Price:₹1,850

Where To Buy: Nykaa

This hand cream is luxury in a tube formulated with 20% Shea Butter that will nourish the hands of the woman who never stops using hers to care for others.

7.Havells 5-in-1 Multi Styling Kit

Price: ₹2,963

Where To Buy: Amazon

She's the woman that spent all her days making your hair every morning, now it's your turn, buy her this 5 in 1 Multi Styling Kit and teach her how to doll herself for a change.

8.Ankle & Wrist Weights: Kosha Cuffs

Price: ₹3,999

Where To Buy: Kosha Yoga

For the fitness junkie mom, these comfortable wrist and ankle weights will help take their Yoga, Pilates, Strength training up a notch. Best Part? They can also be worn during everyday chores.

No matter what you end up choosing to give her a luxurious perfume or any other beauty product, the ultimate perfect gift for her is reminding her importance in your life and these beauty and wellness products are just a small token of your way to say thank you to the most important woman in your life.

For any questions or additional information please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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Are You A Victim To Blush Blindness? Here's How To Tell

Ever found yourself in a situation where you reached for the blush and continued layering it because "it didn't feel quite enough". I have found myself in this situation more times than I can remember, if any of this sounds like you might be a victim to blush blindness.

What Is Blush Blindness? It's the phenomenon where someone applies so much blush that they become unable to realize the excessive amount of colour they are wearing. It's a term coined by the internet for the feeling of gradually applying blush until you reach a point where it's visibly undone, but you're still not aware of it.

This "blindness" isn't something new, it's been lurking for years, remember 2010s overdrawn, thick eyebrows or orange toned fake tans, the aggressive bronze shade that none of us were blending beyond the jawline.

How To Escape Blush Blindness

Before you let the blush have a party on your whole face, give it a few minutes to settle into the skin, it makes a huge difference before deciding if you need to add more product.

2. Make sure when applying a blush, you're using a large mirror instead of a small compact one which will help you see your whole face rather than a focused area resulting in an overall balanced look.

3. While going in straight with your fingers has been popularized by many celebrities and beauty influencers, try using a soft, angular brush which will help in precision and blending.

4. Go for a shade that complements your skin tone rather than what is the most viral blush right now, If you are fair skinned go for light pinks and peaches, if you are medium skin tone to dark try choosing more reds, and plum shades.

5. Lastly, try applying blush in natural light if possible or after done applying, check how it looks in natural light to make sure the look is balanced.

So, Is Blush Blindness A Bad Thing?

The best part about makeup is it's a unique reflection of who you are, So if you're someone that likes a subtle blush look than a super rosy one you can skip the trend but if you're someone that loves the flushed look, There's nothing wrong with it.

Love Bold Blush? Here are Your CheekBones New Best Friend:

Pixi Beauty: On- The- Glow Blush In Fleur

Price: ₹1,950

Where To Buy: Tirabeauty

2.FAE Beauty: Liquid Lush Blush In Featherlight

Price: ₹599

Where To Buy: Nykaa

3.Fenty Beauty : Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush In Riri

Price: ₹3500

Where To Buy: Nykaa

4.Sheglam Snatch 'N' Blush Stick In Next Dimension

Price: ₹599

Where To Buy: Tirabeauty

For any questions or more information regarding this blog please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler: A Review

When Dyson came out with the original Airwrap back in 2018, it had been deemed as the Apple of the haircare world and who could possibly deny this? With its commitment to developing ingenious solutions through innovative technology and luxury, it instantly became a product that everyone, from hairstylists to influencers, swore by for salon-like hair at home. I obviously caved and gave into the bandwagon, and here are my thoughts on the Dyson Airwrap.

Dyson Airwrap

What Is Included?

The Dyson Airwrap has 6 attachments in total

1.One Dryer Attachment

2.Two Curling Barrels

3.Three Styling Brushes

The Price:

The Airwrap is priced at Rs. 50,000, so your wallet may hate to see this coming but this purchase is definitely worth every penny.

What Sets Dyson Apart?

It's a one-stop-shop item for all hairstyling needs. This one machine has the ability to curl, wave, straighten, smooth, and dry hair. I was so happy that I could finally ditch the multiple hair tools overflowing in my closet.

The Dyson Airwrap has 6 attachments in total

One Dryer Attachment: This is a cylindrical-shaped smoother dryer attachment that helped rough-dry my hair very quickly. Not only that, but thanks to Dyson's proprietary "Coanda" technology, I finally had a foolproof solution for frizz and those pesky flyaways.

2.Two Curling Barrels: This might have been my favourite attachment. Dyson's innovative technology has made it possible for hair to self-wrap around the attachment, which means no longer getting burns while mechanically wrapping hair to a curler. It has two types of barrels: narrow and wide. If you want to achieve tighter curls, then go for the narrow barrel, and if you want softer curls, use the wider barrel. However, the curls did not last very long. If you want your curls to last days, you might have to use a curling tong, but the Airwrap works wonders for a blowout.

3. Two Paddle Brushes: This is a smoothing attachment that smooths your hair as you comb through it. There are two types of paddles—one has bristles that are smooth enough to overall give a smooth look, while the second paddle brush is firmer in comparison and is better to use if you are looking for a totally straight look.

4. One Round Brush: If you love the 90s bouncy blowout but don’t have the coordination to achieve the blowout through a regular round brush and hairdryer, you’re going to love this attachment. This attachment gives you volume that goes a long way; it has long and fine bristles that are perfect for creating a blowout and for fringes.

Is The Splurge Worth It?

The million-dollar question that poses is: Is the Airwrap worth it? The truth is, if you're someone who rarely styles their hair on a regular basis, then you might be better off skipping this (it is at the steep cost of Rs. 50,000). But if you're someone who is constantly styling their hair, then go for it. The Airwrap offers six styling uses with one tool that eliminates your need to go to the salon.

Have you tried out the Dyson Airwrap? Let's Discuss In The Comments.

For more information or any questions regarding this blog. Please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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TIRTIR MASK FIT RED CUSHION FOUNDATION REVIEW

Some of the best things that Korea has shared with the world are Jennie Kim and K-Beauty. One doesn't have to scroll too far down TikTok to find the TIR TIR Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation. The app is flooded with videos of people trying on this foundation and, in just one dab, achieving a glowy, natural finish with full coverage. It's like magic happening in front of your eyes.

Price Point: If you think that a good foundation like this one can not be bought without breaking the bank, think again! The cushion foundation is priced at Rs. 2,050 for the big size and Rs. 1,000 for the small size.

Packaging: As the name suggests, "TirTir Cushion Foundation," it comes with a compact, airtight container with a sponge-like applicator. The packaging makes the foundation very easy to apply and gives full coverage in just one touch.

Coverage: The cushion foundation provides full coverage.

Finish: Want a natural-looking base but still want high coverage? Then look no more. TirTir offers a beautiful semi-matte finish. The lightweight formula helps your skin feel comfortable while concealing imperfections.

Shade Range: Korea's hyperfixation with a fair complexion and lack of inclusivity for medium to dark skin tones is no secret, so when I got to know that they have 40 shades, I was very much impressed.

Longevity: The foundation claims to last up to 72 hours, and I found this to be true the foundation did not move all day. As someone who lives in extreme humidity, it stayed put.

Ingredients: While this is not meant to be a skincare product and is just a foundation, it has been formulated with skincare ingredients like hibiscus and red propolis extract that help with skin elasticity and maintaining that "glow."

HOW TO USE THIS CUSHION FOUNDATION:

Skin Prep: The foundation's formula is quite smooth and moisturising, but the best way to use it is with proper skin prep. I like to go in with a layer of COSRX's Snail Mucin and 6 Peptide Booster to make sure my skin is nourished before application.

2. Start with a small amount: You don't need a lot with this foundation. It's medium to full coverage, so just a little is more than enough. If you feel like you need more, you can always build it up as it's easily buildable.

3.Prefer Light Coverage? If you're looking for light coverage, use a damp brush to apply the foundation. It will give you a natural looking, light coverage.

4. Prefer High Coverage? If you want full coverage, then choose to apply this with a makeup brush. It will help achieve the blurred full coverage look.

5. Setting Powder: In my experience with its long wear, you don't need setting powder, but if you're an oily or combination girlie, use setting powder to mattify the T-zone.

Have you tried this viral foundation yet? Let's Chat In the Comments!

For more information or any questions please reach out to glowandtell@gmail.com

[glowandtell]

"Walk With Charlie" App Review: The Fun Way To Get Your Steps In

In today's world, where endlessly doomscrolling 12 hours a day on Instagram reels in bed is the new normal, our health has taken a back burner. You will be surprised at how little the average person today walks. Most people are walking less than 4,000–5,000 steps, which is way below the recommended holy 10k steps number. As a fellow university student, I completely sympathize completing the 10k steps goal seems daunting with back-to-back lectures and endless assignments. No one has the time or motivation to complete this goal.

I used to have an extremely sedentary lifestyle myself, only taking five steps from one class to another. But it doesn’t take a medical degree for one to realize this was not good for my health. So, I decided to take charge and change this. A Chinese app, Walk With Charlie, made walking feel easygoing and more exciting rather than a daunting task that I had to cross off from my daily checklist.

HOW THE APP WORKS

"Walk with Charlie" is unlike any other step-counting app. This interactive app turns walking into an exciting game that rewards you for your walking activity

1.Virtual Walk-Mate: Charlie is your virtual buddy who becomes healthier if you walk more than 10K steps and chubbier if you walk less than 5K steps.

2.Fun Twist on Walking: The app turns walking into a fun game that motivates users to complete daily step goals and earn rewards like donuts, which can be used to buy items and customize Charlie.

3. Social Features: The app helps you invite friends and compete with them in step missions and allows you to join a "Charlie Town" where you can socialize and participate in healthy missions.

4. Customization and Rewards: You can customize Charlie with items, unlock badges, and collect seasonal rewards the more you take part in step missions.

5. Tracking and Progress: The app accurately tracks steps in real time and lets you track your progress.

Why You Need To Get A Charlie:

-> Will Hold You Accountable: We've all done it we've talked the talk but didn't walk the walk. Charlie will help you stay on track and motivated.

-> Charlie Changes With Your Progress: Your walking buddy transforms based on your steps, giving you a reason to keep the step count high.

-> More Fun Than A regular Step Tracker: With exciting step missions, exclusive items and badges walking is anything but a bore.

-> Small Steps To Make You Feel Good: Walking goes a long way will help meet your fitness goals and reduce stress levels and balance hormones.

If you're also ready to make walking fun again, join me and get your very own Charlie today. Download it on the App Store and move more! (Unfortunately, available on iOS only)

Would you be ready to try an app like Charlie? Let’s chat in the comments 🎮🚶‍♀️

[glowandtell]

Living Gluten Free (+ A Recipe You'll Love)

The heart of every Indian household's diet is roti. It is found at almost every meal. If you told me two years ago that I’d give up gluten, I probably would have called it a bluff. All my life, I could not imagine a single meal without the soft, chewy flatbread that effortlessly melts in your mouth. So the idea of not having gluten seemed impossible.

Giving up gluten was not a choice I made for myself in the beginning. It all started when my sister was suggested to go gluten-free by a nutritionist. For quite some time, she was experiencing severe acid reflux and had borderline thyroid markers. To reverse this, she decided to go gluten-free. As an act of solidarity, I decided to go gluten-free too, because what is better than gluten-free trauma bonding? To my surprise, the only thing we were suffering from was success. After going gluten-free, throughout the day, we were both less bloated, had improved digestion, and had twice as much energy.

This transition was anything but easy for me. As a college freshman on the 9 to 5 grind, my go-to breakfast was bagels with cream cheese, a gluten bomb, so it was no longer an option. I had to completely rethink my approach to food. I started checking food labels on the back and trying food swaps that didn’t taste like cardboard. But I changed the lens through which I viewed this situation. Instead of grieving all the foods I had lost, I started to think about all the new foods I get to try.

Now, eating gluten-free fits into my everyday routine naturally. It's as normal as brushing my teeth before bed. If you're wondering whether going gluten-free is the right path for you or are just in the mood for an appetizing snack without the guilt, this is exactly the place you should be.

My Gluten- Free Experience

I was completely oblivious to how much gluten is used in certain foods. It was present in almost everything, from sauces, breads, and chocolates to beer. At the beginning of my gluten-free journey, some of the things I struggled with were:

1.Finding foods that were gluten-free and easy on the taste buds

2.Eating gluten-free in social situations when dining out

3.Managing cravings

After I battled through this initial phase

I was able to explore some equally yummy and nutritious food swaps, like ragi chips, almond flour and chickpea pasta. These foods helped me with better digestion and made me feel light.

If you are considering ditching gluten. Here are some things that helped me.

-When grocery shopping, make sure to check food labels (gluten is present in almost everything today).

-Replace wheat flour with almond flour, oat flour, or buckwheat.

-Make sure your diet is filled with gluten-free options like fruits, veggies, fiber, and protein.

-When choosing to dine out, plan your meals. Many restaurants now offer gluten-free options.

Now Finally To The Recipe,

My Favourite Gluten Free Recipe: Cinnamon Balls

This gluten-free dessert recipe is quick, scrumptious, and easy to follow, with just 100 calories per serving.

Ingredients:

1.2 egg whites

2. 225g ground almonds

3. 1½ tsp ground cinnamon

4.½ tsp vanilla bean paste

5. icing sugar (used for dusting)

Method:

1. Heat the oven to 160°C and line a large baking sheet with baking parchment. Whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks in a medium bowl. Using a spatula, mix in all the remaining ingredients, excluding the icing sugar and a pinch of salt, until fully combined.

2.Roll the mixture into miniature balls using dampened hands so the mixture won’t stick. Arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

3.Bake for approximately 20–30 minutes or until the balls start to brown slightly. Keep checking on them, and be sure to check halfway through baking. Dust with icing sugar while still warm, then leave to cool before serving.

Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.

Giving up gluten has been a transformational journey for me. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but I wouldn’t go back for anything. If you're thinking about going gluten-free, definitely give it a shot. Be patient and gentle with yourself throughout the process, and keep experimenting with different foods until you find what works best for you!

Have you ever tried being gluten free? Would you give this recipe a try? Let's chat in the comments:)

[glowandtell]

Top March Beauty Favourites 🌺

With winter fading away and spring knocking at our doors, today on Glow and Tell, I wanted to share some of my favourite skincare and makeup products that I cannot put down.

1.Photon Hydra Sunscreen: My first favourite for March is this Photon Hydra Vitamin C Sunscreen Gel. With the UV index rising day by day, sunscreen has become non-negotiable, but who needs the greasiness and white cast? This Photon Hydra Sunscreen formulation is hydrating, lightweight, and leaves a glow on the face while deeply hydrating the skin.

Photon Hydra Sunscreen Gel

2.Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter: A staple in every It girl’s makeup bag, from Gigi Hadid to Madison Beer, it gives my skin a radiant glow from within. My favourite part is it gives a dewy glow without any chunky shimmer or sparkle. The product is versatile and can be used as a highlighter, primer, and light coverage foundation.

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter

3.COSRX 6 Peptide Booster: If I was stranded on an island and could only choose one thing, I would without a doubt choose COSRX Peptide Boost. It is a true game changer for skin rejuvenation. Just after a few uses, my skin looks brighter, firmer, smoother, and overall happier.

COSRX 6 Peptide Booster

4. Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow Lip Balm: The only product you need in your bag on effortless days when you don’t want to do a full face of makeup but still want to look put together. It has a thin, buttery texture that leaves my lips soft, with a always plump, even, and smooth finish.

Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow Lip Balm

5.Dior Backstage Palette in 001: The Dior Backstage Palette in 001 may put a slight frown on your wallet, but it is worth every penny. This luxe palette is great value for four colors of highlighters in one palette, and this multi-use palette can be used as a highlighter, eyeshadow, blush, and bronzer.

Dior Glow Face Palette

So, these are my top five beauty picks for March that you can always find in my bag. Let me know if you have tried any of them.

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Trying The Morning Shed: When Did SkinCare Turn Into A Full- Time Job?

A girl's Olympic sport, simply put, is her winding up for the day with her mighty skincare products—using a cleanser, followed by an overnight hydrating face mask, then putting on a bonnet, a chin strap, and taping her mouth while sleeping on her back. All this just to wake up with the perfect glazed donut skin in the morning. This elaborate routine is a new viral phenomenon where Gen Z skinfluencers layer multiple products before going to bed. It's a high-maintenance routine that keeps you low-maintenance. I decided to give this trend a try by following a morning shed routine for 15 days.

How the "Morning Shed" Became the Latest "It" Thing in Skincare

The "Morning Shed" trend blew up on TikTok when content creators started broadcasting on the screen and would "shed" the excessive amount of wellness products that they had slept in the night before. This includes wellness products ranging from eye masks, wrinkle patches, hair rollers, chin straps, overnight face masks, pimple patches, wrinkle patches, lip stains, and LED masks etc.

Many creators like Michaela Berdaga (@MichaelaBerdaga) have partaken in this trend. A video was uploaded by Michaela Berdaga with the caption, "The uglier you go to sleep, the prettier you wake up." But this intense viral routine has many, including me, wondering- to feel your best in the morning, do you really need this routine? Or is it just another excuse for our overconsumption?

Is The Morning Shed Worth It?

My morning shed routine included cleansing my face, followed by using actives like Vitamin C and Niacinamide, the hydrating collagen face mask by Medicube, Milani lip stain, and Velcro hair rollers.

PROS:

1.Hydrated Skin: By layering hydrating products like a niacinamide serum followed by the hydrating collagen face mask by Medicube, my skin felt more hydrated and supple throughout the day. This was especially beneficial for me as I struggle with dry skin.

2.Structured Morning Routine: Following this morning shed routine every morning without fail made me feel and look more put together for the day and even gave me an extra thirty minutes as I didn’t feel the need to apply makeup the next day after following the morning shed.

3. No Need for Makeup: The addition of the Milani lip stain in my morning shed routine helped me have the right amount of sheer color on my lips. This helped me feel confident without needing any heavy makeup.

4.Shiny and Bouncy Hair: The overnight Velcro rollers helped me achieve a shiny and salon-like bouncy blowout look without needing to use any heat.

CONS:

1. Uncomfortable to Sleep In: As the morning shed routine required me to sleep with several beauty tools like a face mask and Velcro rollers, it was quite uncomfortable to sleep in and affected my quality of sleep during the course of these 15 days.

2.The Results Were Not Long-Lasting: Some of the results that I had achieved by following this routine were not long-lasting. The glow I had achieved from the collagen face mask disappeared after a few hours, which made me question if it was worth the effort.

3. May Not Suit Acne-Prone Skin: This trend required using a lot of products in your routine. As they say, more is not always better. If your skin type is sensitive and acne-prone like mine, then it may cause clogged pores.

My Final Verdict?

Every other day, there is a new trend on SkinTok. The influencer who tells you that you need to follow this meticulous morning shed routine will be the same person telling you that you are ruining your skin with a complicated skincare regime.

So, the right way to go about this is by understanding your skin type and following a routine that works best for you because we are all different and each have separate skin concerns.

For more information or any questions regarding this blog. Please contact glowandtell@gmail.com

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The Gerson Therapy: Is Just Diet Enough To Cure Cancer

An industry that capitalizes on the fear of death, this is none other than the notorious wellness industry, worth almost $7.3 trillion today. Every few weeks, a new trend is thrown at us, promising perfect bodies and effortless happiness. From drinking hydrogen peroxide to kill viruses to raw milk for better gut health and immunity. Thanks to the rising popularity of wellness influencers in this digital age, where many people have started getting medical advice from influencers without a degree, dangerous misinformed trends like these spread twice as fast.

But what happens when such dangerous misinformation can have fatal consequences? An example of this is the Gerson Therapy, claimed to be a natural cancer treatment that treats cancer solely by diet, raw juices, detoxification, and supplements without any chemotherapy or radiation. An all-natural way of getting rid of cancer sounds too good to be true, right? That’s because it is.

The stone cold truth is that there is almost no scientific support that the Gerson Therapy works, and opting for it over traditional treatments can be deadly.

What Does The Gerson Therapy Include: 

Gerson Therapy is an alternative treatment method developed by a German doctor called Max Gerson. It includes a specific organic vegetarian diet with nutritional supplements and coffee enemas. Max Gerson claimed that it helped cure his migraine headaches, so he went on to use it to treat other diseases such as tuberculosis and cancer.

Followers believe that changes to their diet and nutrient intake can help cure cancer. They also think that cancer is a disease of the whole body.

It aims to get rid of toxins and strengthen the body’s immune system. This way, followers say it can bring the body back to its normal metabolic state, and the body can heal itself.

The Gerson Therapy Has 3 Main Parts: 

A strict organic vegetarian diet made up of fruits and vegetables high in potassium and low in sodium.

Vitamin and mineral supplements and specific enzymes.

Coffee or castor oil enemas.

Gerson therapists believe that people with cancer have too much salt (sodium) in their bodies compared to the amount of potassium.

People following the therapy only eat organic, vegetarian food, which includes up to 13 glasses of fresh juice a day. It is believed that by doing so, the right balance will be restored and the liver will be cleansed.

Up to five coffee enemas a day are also given. It is believed that coffee enemas further help to excrete toxins from the liver and colon, and that taking certain supplements and enzymes helps the body get rid of cancer cells.

How Gerson Therapy Works:

This is a strict low-salt, organic fruit and vegetable diet.

Each day, you will need to:

Drink 20 pounds (about 9 kilos) of crushed fruit and vegetables (one glass of juice hourly, 13 times each day).

Have up to five coffee enemas and perhaps also castor oil enemas.

Take potassium and other supplements, including vitamin B12, pancreatic enzymes, and thyroid supplements.

Dangers Of Following Gerson's Therapy

The Gerson Therapy sounds almost idealistic on paper. It is an all “natural” and “holistic” solution that does not rely on harsh treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, so it makes sense why many people are drawn to it.

The problem? There is not enough scientific evidence that the Gerson Therapy is effective.

The Deadly Risks Of Wellness Misinformation:

Rejecting Traditional Medicine Can Be Deadly

Cancer patients often gravitate towards Gerson Therapy out of fear of chemotherapy and radiation. Many people give up medical treatments for alternative treatments like Gerson, which significantly reduces their chance of survival.

2. The Risk of Coffee Enemas

People following the Gerson Therapy are required to take multiple daily coffee enemas to detoxify their bodies. However, they are known to cause several side effects:

Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Rectal burns and infections.

Colon inflammation (colitis), which can be life-threatening.

In several cases, coffee enemas have led to deaths, making it one of the most dangerous aspects of this therapy.

3. Can Cause Malnutrition

Cancer patients have trouble maintaining their weight, yet Gerson Therapy includes severe dietary restrictions. The diet lacks essential proteins and calories.

This can result in:

Muscle loss.

A weakened immune system, making it harder to fight infections.

Fatigue and extreme weakness.

In turn, instead of strengthening their body following gerson’s therapy may make their body weaker due to its lack of essential nutrients 

Instead of strengthening the body, following Gerson Therapy may actually make it weaker due to its lack of essential nutrients.

Alternative cancer treatments are a multimillion-dollar business, selling expensive detox juices, dietary programs, and supplements—making big bucks while preying on people’s deep-seated fears.

For more information or any questions regarding this blog. Please contact glowandtell@gmail.com.

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I Drank Wheatgrass Everyday For 30 Days And This is What Happened

They say one should choose to “eat and drink their skincare” rather than following a meticulous 15-step skincare regimen. So, I decided to drink wheatgrass every morning for 30 days. Wheatgrass is often deemed a “superfood,” packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants like chlorophyll, and vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron, which help achieve clearer skin, boost immunity, improve digestion, and aid in overall well-being. But could this green juice really be a 180° shift in my everyday wellness game, or was it just another fad in the wellness space?

Here is what happened when I religiously drank wheatgrass for a month: 

First Week :

When I was about to take my first sip of wheatgrass, I was in high spirits. I thought that if celebrities and wellness gurus were religiously having it daily, surely I could stomach it for a month.But this couldn't be further from the truth. It tasted like someone had served me freshly mowed lawn grass. It was too grassy and bitter.

By day 3, the taste still made me question why I was choosing to have this drink. In order to make it easier on my taste buds, I decided to mix it with cold water and a squeeze of lemon. It seemed to help a little, but the strong grassy aftertaste was still too overpowering.

By day 5, I had started noticing small changes. I experienced better digestion, felt lighter throughout the day, and my gut seemed happy with me. However, I also started to feel slight headaches from the notorious “detox effect.”

Day 7 felt like a milestone. Drinking wheatgrass wasn’t the best part of my day, but it wasn’t the worst either. It simply became a key part of my daily morning ritual.

Second Week:

By the second week, I started noticing small changes. My skin was healing at a faster pace, breakouts stopped lasting forever, and acne spots began fading more quickly. I didn’t experience a drastic transformation or suddenly wake up with glass skin, but my complexion had started looking brighter and was more hydrated. I had made no changes to my usual skincare regimen. So, this made me wonder was the superfood wheatgrass really doing it’s so called “magic”. 

One thing I did not see coming? Wheatgrass' ability to ease my cravings. I was no longer craving processed food items or sugary snacks. Somehow, my usual 5 PM cravings slowly started to subside. I was no longer wanting to reach for the over-processed snack in the pantry.

With healthier skin, better digestion, and curbed cravings, the second week also brought about the notorious “detox purge.” By the time day 10 came around, I started noticing tiny, pesky breakouts accompanied by slight headaches. I decided to power through this, and within a few days, the “detox purge” had calmed down.

Third Week:

By the third week, I had fully adjusted to drinking this green elixir. Each morning, you would not find me gagging while chugging it anymore, but it wasn’t something I particularly enjoyed drinking either. I had stopped giving much thought to its taste factor; it had become a key part of my everyday routine. During this time, I also started noticing several changes beyond better skin and digestion.

A major change that I noticed was my energy levels throughout the day. It wasn’t a caffeine-like energy boost with jitters. Instead, it was a sustained energy boost lasting the entire day. I had completely waved goodbye to my random midday afternoon crashes. My quality of sleep had leveled up. I always felt refreshed and well rested even on days when I was not able to get a full eight hours of sleep.

With the last week nearing, I was eagerly waiting to see if wheatgrass’s benefits would boost or if I had already experienced all the benefits wheatgrass could have given me.

Fourth Week:

The eagerly awaited final week of the wheatgrass challenge had arrived. Drinking this green juice had become a natural part of my routine. What during the first few days felt like an overpowering grassy drink had become a small part of my morning routine that had a big impact on how I would feel throughout the day.

By this point, the benefits that I had experienced during the early stages of taking wheatgrass had become stable rather than intensifying. My gut health and digestive health was on track, my skin continued to have that glow and be clear, and my energy levels remained stable. The subtle changes I had experienced when I first started taking this green juice were maintained.

While I did enjoy noticing the various benefits wheatgrass gave me, one big question that posed was: Was wheatgrass really a magic potion for health? And if I’m being honest, while it did contribute to healthier physical and mental health for me, wheatgrass is not some one size fits all magic juice for health. It was able to provide me with these numerous benefits alongside an overall healthy lifestyle.

As I had reached the end of my 30-day wheatgrass challenge, I had to ask, will I continue drinking this superfood daily? The answer is probably not. The grassy taste is far from enjoyable, and I feel like similar results can be achieved from a healthy and balanced diet and lifestyle. Although I wouldn’t be dismissing having wheatgrass always and will consume it on the days I feel like I need it.

If this challenge has taught me anything it is that health is not achieved by quick fixes but by consistency and long term commitment to one’s health.

For more information or any questions regarding this blog. Please contact glowandtell@gmail.com.

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Is Your Skin Barrier Damaged? Here’s The Next Steps You Should Take

Over the last few years, a skincare mistake we’ve all been guilty of making at some point is- giving into the skincare trends on social media, thanks to the several-step skincare routines on TikTok. While chasing that “Glass Skin” many of us somewhere along the way have developed skincare regimens with many “trending” overactive ingredients and over-exfoliating products that we don’t really need to use.

What Is The Skin Barrier? 

The skin is the largest organ of our body, and it comprises three layers- the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The skin barrier is located in the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. The epidermis is responsible for maintaining skin health. It acts as a protective barrier between the body and external factors. It prevents water loss and retains hydration and produces melanin, the skin pigment in our body that naturally gives coloring to our hair, eyes, and skin and protects against UV rays.

What Makes It Damaged? 

There are various internal and external factors responsible for a damaged skin barrier, such as- 

An environment too humid or too dry 

Too much sun exposure 

Poor nutrition 

Tobacco Smoking

Air Pollution

Psychological Distress��

Genetics that make you more prone to certain skin conditions 

A major contributor to a damaged skin barrier are the skincare products you choose to include in your regimen. Using products with harsh activities, especially those formulated with artificial fragrance and alcohol can lead to redness or dryness in some cases. While some skincare treatments may help manage breakout-prone and troubled skin, they can also leave the skin’s barrier weakened and more vulnerable to potential irritants. When strengthening a compromised skin barrier, begin by understanding your skin type and any additional skin concerns, if any, this is vital to help select the right skincare products.

How To Restore Your Skin Barrier

1. Recheck Your Skincare Routine

Unknown to you, your skincare routine could be harming your skin barrier. Recheck your routine and see if you are using any product that is not suitable for your skin type or concern.

Until your skin gets back to normal, It's best to simplify your skincare routine and stick to minimal products that suit your skin.

2. Adding Barrier-Repairing Ingredients to Your Routine

To repair and protect your skin barrier, add skincare products that contain barrier-building ingredients like humectants, ceramides, and antioxidants.

3. Lead a balanced lifestyle

While you work on your skin externally, ensure that you support the process by leading a balanced lifestyle. Drink adequate water to keep your body and skin hydrated. Include fruits and vegetables in your diet and steer clear of alcohol and smoking. Moreover, manage your stress, as it can further weaken your skin barrier by slowing down the healing process.

4. Keep away from artificial fragrances:

As your skin’s natural shield is already weak, avoid ingredients that can weaken it further. Avoid products containing harsh chemicals, fragrances, essential oils, and sulfates, and switch to fragrance-free gentle products.

For more information or any questions regarding this blog. Please contact glowandtell@gmail.com.