Colour

They can be called the power sticks in a woman’s make-up kit. Meant to make those beautiful lips more luscious and vibrant with just a dash of colour, lipsticks have the ability not just to change appearances but transform personalities acting as an instant self booster.An integral part of dressing up, lipsticks have always been considered a feel-good make-up product. In fact, according to the ‘lipstick effect’, that started way back in 1930s, lipstick sales jump up considerably during times of depression and austerity as women find these sticks a cheap way to cheer them up.In the city Made of wax, oils, antioxidants and emollients, lipsticks are available in various types - matte, crème, sheer and long lasting, glossy and shimmery. Bhubaneswar, however, offers a limited collection of brands - Lakme, Streetwear, Tips and Toes, Lotus Herbals, Faces, Colouressence, Revlon, Elle 18, Deborah and Colourbar - most of which are available in super malls like Pantaloons and The World with the price range varying between Rs 99 (Elle 18) and Rs 850 (Revlon). But, ladies here have not limited themselves to these brands alone. A considerable percentage of the fairer sex in the city does not mind buying lipsticks from outside the State, or shop online.Sukriti Patnaik, Managing Director, Indulge Beautyscape, Pal Heights says she only uses shades of Dior and Mac, none of which is available in the State. On the other hand, upcoming Ollywood actress Prakruti Mishra, who shot into limelight with her recently released movie Thukool, says she is content with the shades available in the city though she strongly believes women should opt only for branded lipsticks.While she prefers all shades of pinks, Streetwear’s dual lipstick (matte on one end, gloss on the other) collection is her favourite pick. According to Prakruti, matte finish gives a classy look while gloss adds a glamour touch and goes best with the party look.Summer shadesFor summers, the actress feels women should go for lighter shades at least during the daytime. Beauty expert Sukriti seconds that. Women should go for shades of pinks and nudes in summer as this is the time they opt for comfortable and casual clothing with colours like yellows and peaches. She also promotes red shade for any season. ‘’People underestimate reds a lot. Tomato red is one of the few shades that works great on any skin colour,’’ she feels.Yet another colour that brightens the skin tone is brown. According to Ujjal, the Regional Trainer, Beauty for VLCC, women with dark complexion  should opt more for brown shades. The fair-complexioned ones can experiment with almost all shades though as per him, shades of pinks go best with fair skin. For summers, Ujjal promotes matte look and yes nude shades. However, he advises applying a gloss before using a matte lipstick for a chic look and also to prevent drying of lips, generally  associated with matte shades.So ladies, if you havent experimented till now, go check for those ‘lippies’ in your beauty closet right away. Even  better, make a brand new collection and look gorgeous this summer.