Cleopatra – Iampunjaabi

From Dull to Dewy: Expert-Approved Festive Skincare Detox Routine

As the festive season winds down, it often leaves traces of exhaustion on the skin — dullness, breakouts, and dehydration caused by late nights, makeup overload, and indulgent meals. The key to reviving your skin’s natural radiance lies in a gentle detox routine that allows it to breathe, repair, and restore its glow.

Experts suggest beginning your post-festive skincare reset with thorough but mild cleansing. Switch to sulfate-free cleansers enriched with natural ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, or rose water that effectively remove makeup and impurities without stripping away essential moisture. Hydration plays a pivotal role in skin recovery; therefore, replenishing lost moisture with hyaluronic acid serums or plant-based facial oils helps restore suppleness.

A weekly detox mask made from kaolin clay or charcoal can help draw out impurities while soothing the skin. Many dermatologists recommend using masks containing antioxidant-rich ingredients like matcha or turmeric, which reduce inflammation and brighten the complexion. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant made from fruit enzymes or rice powder twice a week can further aid cell renewal and improve skin texture.

Switching to vegan and natural skincare products can make a visible difference during the detox phase. Brands like Forest Essentials, Just Herbs, and Plum Goodness in India are known for their botanical formulations that nourish without harsh chemicals. Globally, The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range and Herbivore Botanicals’ Blue Tansy Mask have gained popularity for their clean, vegan ingredients that help balance and detoxify stressed skin.

Diet and hydration are equally vital for restoring your glow from within. Detoxing your skin isn’t only about topical care — it involves a conscious effort to load up on antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits. Drinking adequate water and herbal teas helps flush out toxins, while avoiding processed sugar and alcohol accelerates skin healing.

A consistent post-festive skincare routine focused on cleansing, hydration, and mindful nutrition ensures that your skin feels refreshed, luminous, and truly revived — ready to step into the new season with renewed radiance.

Article contributed by Richa Agarwal, Beauty & Wellness Expert, Cleopatra chain of Beauty & Makeovers

Hair Couture Show Brings Monsoon Hair Care to the Spotlight with Cleopatra Makeovers lounge

Chandigarh, September 2025 – The much-awaited Hair Couture Show turned into an inspiring platform where monsoon hair care took center stage. Presented by renowned makeover expert Richa Agarwal, the event not only highlighted common hair problems and their solutions but also marked the launch of new hair spa and hair care therapies designed to restore strength, shine, and vitality during the humid season. Alongside this, the show unveiled trendy global-inspired hairstyles, curated and showcased by beauty professionals and students of Cleopatra Beauty Academy.

The event drew enthusiastic participation from women across Chandigarh who actively engaged in discussions about their hair concerns and gained fresh insights on managing them effectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Richa Agarwal and beauty expert Harveen Kathuria shared:

“Monsoon often leaves hair limp, frizzy, and difficult to manage. Through this workshop, we wanted to empower women with easy regimes and styling solutions that are globally inspired yet adaptable to Indian hair textures. Healthy hair is the foundation of great style, and with the right care, the season can be as enjoyable for your tresses as it is for your mood.”

The workshop not only addressed concerns like dandruff, scalp infections, and excess hair fall but also presented quick fixes and care routines suited for the humid climate.

Beauty experts at the event emphasized the blend of tradition and innovation. One of them noted:

“Hair couture is about going beyond ordinary styles – it’s about making a statement. We combined international runway inspirations with local preferences, ensuring the looks are aspirational yet wearable.”

The students of Cleopatra Beauty Academy also played a vital role by presenting fresh, youthful interpretations of trending styles, making the event an engaging showcase of creativity and expertise.

The event concluded with an interactive session where participants expressed appreciation for the practical advice and the inspiration they received. One participant shared:

“It was refreshing to see experts truly address real concerns. The styling demos were not only glamorous but also achievable – something we can actually try in our daily lives.”

With its mix of expert guidance, creativity, and community interaction, the Hair Couture Show reaffirmed its position as a trendsetter in beauty and hair fashion in Chandigarh.

Women’s Day Out: A Celebration of Self-Care, Beauty & Wellness for Chandigarh’s Inspiring Women at Cleopatra

Today marked an extravagant beginning of the three-day Beauty & Wellness indulgence for women of Chandigarh, hosted at Cleopatra Spa & Salon, Sector 9. The event kicked off as an ode to women of Chandigarh who have brought remarkable changes to the society. The first day was dedicated to educationists and principals from eminent schools—women who often find little time for self-care amidst their demanding schedules. The remaining two days are reserved for health professionals, working moms and executives from the beautiful city. With its blend of science, soul, and sisterhood, the Beauty & Wellness Extravaganza promises to be a meaningful celebration of women who nurture, lead, and inspire the City Beautiful.

This event ensured they were made to unwind, indulge and focus on their own beauty and wellness through thoughtful pampering and rejuvenating experiences.Curated by renowned beauty expert Richa Agarwal, the carnival opened with indulgence, pampering, and a good looks, that go beyond skin deep.Joining Richa Agarwal in this initiative were seasoned beauty professionals Harveen Kathuria and Arpita Das, bringing their expertise and warmth to the sessions. The event emphasized the evolving definition of beauty: one that celebrates wellness, confidence, and natural expression.

Guests were welcomed with refreshing drinks and delectables, followed by interactive session led by cosmetologist and wellness consultant Arpita Das, who spoke about integrating nature and science into everyday beauty rituals. The afternoon progressed into a day of invigorating hair spas, pampering massages, nail care, and the latest line of organic, plant-powered facials and skin therapies that are scientifically backed and tailored to modern lifestyles.The therapies introduced today—ranging from collagen-infused herbal facials to probiotic skin treatments and Ayurvedic scalp healing rituals—reflected the industry’s most innovative shift toward natural, sustainable skincare that supports long-term health and glow.

The space was thoughtfully designed to offer quiet corners for curated conversations, while guests indulged in a carefully crafted spread of delicacies, exchanging thoughts, laughter, and stories of personal empowerment. A highlight of the day was the Lucky Dip, where winners took home signature services by Cleopatra—a gesture that added cheer to an already rejuvenating day.

The following days of the carnival were a promise that continued to embrace this spirit as health professionals, executives, working moms, and women from diverse walks of life will come together for a head-to-toe day of pampering, learning, and wellness exploration. Live demonstrations of emerging beauty techniques, organic skin solutions, home care rituals, and workshops will spotlight how natural ingredients meet cutting-edge cosmetology.

Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers Decoded Valentine’s Day Makeover Trends

This Valentine’s Day, Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers redefined beauty with a special makeover event, unveiling the latest romantic looks. Led by Makeover Expert & Founder Richa Agarwal and Beauty Expert Harveen Kathuriya, the session highlighted trending makeup styles, helping women achieve the perfect date-night glam.

The Valentine’s Lookbook

From soft, radiant skin to bold, statement lips, the session showcased a variety of on-trend looks inspired by global beauty forecasts. Subtle nude skin makeup emerged as the top pick for those who prefer effortless elegance, while bold red and berry lips took center stage for those wanting a dramatic edge. Floral accents, a fresh addition this year, completed the look, making beauty feel more expressive and romantic.

Richa Agarwal, Founder of Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers, emphasized the importance of embracing individual beauty: “Valentine’s makeup is all about confidence and expressing your personality. While dewy, hydrated skin remains a classic, this year we see a shift towards bolder lip shades, paired with minimal eye makeup. It’s all about balance and effortless glamour.”

Valentine’s Makeup Trends 2025

Global beauty trends also highlighted skinimalism—embracing natural, well-hydrated skin with lightweight foundation and soft blush. Glossy lips, monochrome makeup, and pastel eyeshadows are also making waves. Cleopatra’s event brought these trends to life, tailoring them to Indian skin tones and preferences.

Beauty Expert Harveen Kathuriya shared her insights: *“This Valentine’s, beauty is playful yet sophisticated. We’re seeing a mix of barely-there foundation with a focus on fresh, glowing skin. A single *bold element—be it lips, eyes, or even a floral hair accessory—adds that romantic touch.”

The Power of One Accessory

A standout moment at the preview was the “One Flower Accessory” trend, where Cleopatra’s experts demonstrated how a single flower—be it tucked in the hair, pinned to an outfit, or used as a statement piece—can elevate any look. Soft pinks, deep reds, and pastel hues dominated the Valentine’s palette, complementing the delicate floral additions.

The event wrapped up with live makeovers, offering a firsthand experience of Cleopatra’s signature transformations. With personalized beauty tips and expert-led styling, the salon ensured that every woman walked out feeling confident, radiant, and Valentine’s-ready.

Cleopatra Chain of Makeovers Unveiled Spectacular Festive and Karwachauth Trends with a Blend of Tradition and Global Glamour

Richa Agarwal, the esteemed makeover expert and founder of the Cleopatra Chain of Makeovers and Salons, showcased a dazzling array of festive and Karwachauth makeovers in an exclusive preview event. Alongside beauty expert Harveen Kathuria, the presentation highlighted a seamless fusion of global beauty trends with traditional festive makeovers. The event also featured intricate hair styling, festive nail art, and stunning mehendi designs, each meticulously curated to suit the upcoming festive season.

During the event, models graced the stage, confidently showcasing the exquisite looks, making the trends come to life. From festive makeup donned skin to bold hairstyles, they embodied the spirit of festivity with every look.

Richa Agarwal explained how this year’s looks were crafted with a more daring approach. “This season, we reimagined traditional festive beauty, infusing it with global trends. The result was makeovers that were bold yet elegant, with subtlety that allowed each woman to shine. Every detail, from the hair to the makeup, reflected confidence and modern sophistication, perfectly blending with the spirit of the festive season,” she said.

The models displayed a variety of makeup looks that exuded both elegance and modernity. One of the highlights was the radiant glass makeup look, which made the models’ skin appear effortlessly smooth and glowing with a natural sheen. Another standout was the soft, feminine rose quartz makeup, featuring delicate pink tones with a shimmer that evoked the timeless beauty of the stone. The ombre gold glow makeup made a luxurious statement, blending warm golden tones to create a sun-kissed effect. Meanwhile, the festive makeup for Karwachauth combined dramatic eyes with bold lips, offering a refined yet striking look that was perfect for evening celebrations.

On the hair front, the Cleopatra Chain introduced seven of the season’s trendiest hairstyles, all elevated with bold accessories. This year saw a shift away from the floral touches used in the past. Instead, bold hair accessories such as jeweled pins, elegant chains, gota patti, and traditional parandas added a daring edge to each style. From sleek buns to soft beach waves, and metallic accents, the hairstyles were designed to be both versatile and captivating, complementing both traditional and contemporary festive outfits.

In discussing how this year’s looks differed from previous years, Richa Agarwal remarked, “Last year, the focus was on soft floral details and minimalist styling, but this year, we’ve embraced a bolder aesthetic. The makeup leaned into deeper hues and metallics, creating a more striking appearance while maintaining a subtle elegance. The hair accessories have also evolved from delicate floral touches to more elaborate statement pieces, adding drama and sophistication to every look.”

With its creative vision for the festive season, the Cleopatra Chain of Salons has once again redefined festive beauty. The makeovers presented not only highlighted the perfect balance between global trends and traditional styles, but also embodied the modern woman’s desire for bold, elegant and ultra glamorous looks

Beyond Sunburn: Understanding UV Rays and Skin Protection

Contributed by RICHA AGARWAL, celebrated Beauty & Makeover expert with inputs from HARVEEN KATHURIA

Beyond Sunburn: Understanding UV Rays and Skin Protection

Summer Skin SOS: Sun Protection Strategies You Need to Know
Basking in the summer sun’s warm embrace is undeniably delightful, but it’s crucial to remember that along with its inviting glow comes the potential for skin damage from harmful UV rays. Protecting your skin is not just about avoiding sunburn; it’s about safeguarding against premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer. This concise guide arms you with essential knowledge to select the right sunscreen, implement effective sun protection strategies, and prioritize hydration for a summer of safe and healthy fun. Choosing the Right Sunscreen: Your Primary Defense Sunscreen acts as a barrier against harmful UV rays, making it imperative to choose the right one for optimal protection. Here’s why it matters:

Understanding UV Rays: UV radiation comprises UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply, causing premature aging, while UVB rays primarily lead to sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against both types.

SPF Decoded: Grasping the significance of SPF helps you gauge the level of protection your sunscreen provides. Opting for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF ensures your skin remains safeguarded during outdoor activities, contributing to long-term skin health and vitality. Additionally, consider the benefits of waterproof and gel-based sunscreens. Waterproof formulas provide extended protection, especially during activities involving water exposure like swimming or sports. Gel-based sunscreens offer a lightweight, non-greasy option ideal for those with oily or combination skin, ensuring comfortable wear without clogging pores. By incorporating these variations into your sun care routine, you enhance your skin’s defense against harmful UV rays while addressing individual preferences and needs. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates a sunscreen’s ability to block UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50+ offers over 98% protection. While SPF 30 suffices for daily activities, opt for SPF 50+ for prolonged sun exposure or if you have fair skin.

Tailoring Sunscreen to Your Skin Type: Just like clothing, sunscreen should suit your skin’s needs: Oily Skin: Choose lightweight, oil-free formulas like gels or lotions. Dry Skin: Opt for moisturizing creams containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Sensitive Skin: Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options or mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Beyond Sunscreen: Comprehensive Sun Protection Strategies

Cover Up: Utilizing clothing as an additional layer of defense shields your skin from direct UV exposure, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage. Embracing sun-protective clothing enhances your overall sun safety regimen, promoting skin health and resilience.

Protect Your Eyes: Investing in quality sunglasses not only shields your eyes from UV damage but also safeguards the delicate skin around them. By choosing sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays, you mitigate the risk of eye-related issues and maintain optimal visual health.

Hydration: Nourishing Your Skin from Within

Cooling Foods: Incorporating hydrating fruits and vegetables into your diet not only replenishes lost fluids but also provides essential nutrients that promote skin health. By embracing a diet rich in water-dense foods, you support overall hydration and enhance your body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Refreshing Beverages: Opting for hydrating beverages like coconut water and lassi replenishes electrolytes and minerals lost through perspiration, promoting optimal hydration levels. By incorporating these beverages into your daily routine, you support skin health and vitality from the inside out.

Ayurvedic Wisdom: Embracing Ayurvedic principles offers holistic support for skin health and overall well-being during the summer months. By incorporating cooling spices and herbs into your meals, along with mindful eating practices, you foster balance and harmony within your body, promoting optimal digestion and skin resilience.

By integrating these sun safety measures into your summer routine, you not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays but also nurture its health and vitality. Prioritizing sun safety is not just a seasonal concern—it’s a lifelong commitment to your well-being and longevity.

RICHA AGARWAL IS BEAUTY & WELLNESS EXPERT, GC member Beauty & wellness sector skill council of India , under National Skill Council (NSDC ),Chief mentor beauty therapy world skill india. HARVEEN KATHURIA is Dietician Ex Intern PGI, Chandigarh.

Prestigious Award for Excellence in Beauty and Wellness Unveiled

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) orchestrated a momentous event in Chandigarh – the Health Beauty & Wellness Awards 2024, held concurrently with the Health, Beauty & Wellness Symposium. This distinguished occasion was curated to celebrate, reward, and acknowledge the exceptional contributions of industry leaders in the realms of Health, Beauty, and Wellness.

In a significant highlight, Cleopatra, a distinguished chain of spa salons and makeovers, was honored with the coveted title of the Best Salon Chain in North India during the awards ceremony. The presence of the esteemed Chief Guest, the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab & Administrator of Chandigarh, Sh. Banwari Lal Purohit, added an aura of prestige and honor to the event.

Richa Agarwal, the visionary founder of Cleopatra, along with beauty expert Harveen Kathuria, expressed their elation upon receiving this prestigious award. Richa Agarwal eloquently stated, “Cleopatra is profoundly proud to see our unwavering dedication and hard work acknowledged in this manner. This accolade is a testament to our commitment to excellence in the realm of beauty and wellness.”

The Health, Beauty & Wellness Symposium, an avant-garde initiative, served as a convergence point for stakeholders from across the industry, providing an exclusive space for insightful deliberations on industry trends, areas of growth, and innovation. Notably, the symposium fostered meaningful communication among the healthcare, wellness, and beauty sectors, addressing upcoming healthcare concerns collectively.

This pioneering event drew over 200 visitors from various corners of the country, affording them the privilege of networking with industry luminaries, active participation in diverse events, and engaging with leading national brands. Discussions spanned a wide spectrum, from influencing the trajectory of healthcare, wellness, and beauty to shaping industry policies and championing a seamless global healthcare transition.

Richa Agarwal’s Happy Santarina: A Month of Beauty and Joy at the Makeover Carnival

Renowned makeover specialist Richa Agarwal recently launched the holiday season with a month-long beauty extravaganza, titled the “Happy Santarina Makeover Carnival.” This event featured a range of makeover services such as nail art, hair coloring in bright shades, and expertly designed looks in festive red and pink tones. Joining her in this festive affair was celebrated beauty expert Harveen Kathuria. Richa, a prominent figure in the beauty industry, created an engaging and educational experience for those attending, offering not just makeovers but also valuable knowledge in nail care, makeup techniques, and crafting joyful, vibrant styles.

The carnival became a center of creativity and holiday spirit, attracting women from diverse backgrounds to its various beauty workshops. Richa also added to the festive atmosphere by distributing Christmas treats and exclusive beauty packages to the attendees. The event was an opportunity for participants to learn the latest in nail art, ensuring their nails sparkled with holiday designs. Makeup application was another focus, with Richa advocating for the use of bright, spirited colors to match the festive mood.

Richa shared her enthusiasm about the event’s success, noting, “The holiday season is a period for celebration and joy, with many looking forward to festive breaks. With this in mind, we aimed to impart makeup and hair styling tips that capture the essence of happiness and liberty. We’re thrilled with the active involvement of so many women in our Happy Santarina Makeover Carnival.”

Held at Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers, the Happy Santarina Makeover Carnival was not just a chance for beauty aficionados to hone their skills but also a platform for fostering community and holiday cheer. Richa’s expertise and dedication to spreading joy through beauty shone throughout the event, inspiring attendees and gearing them up to welcome the holiday season in style.

Richa Agarwal and Cleopatra Makeovers Receive Glorious Award for its achievment in the feild of Makeovers

Richa Agarwal, Founder and ace makeover expert, Cleopatra Makeovers is proud to announce and celebrate the recent recognition it received from the esteemed Bollywood actress, Bhagyashree. The salon was honored with the Glorious Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023. This prestigious award was presented to Richa Agarwal by Bollywood actress Bhagyashree. Richa Agarwal, foun and makeover expert Cleopatra feels privileged to have received this recognition from these esteemed organizations. Talking about this achievement she stated,
As a leading makeup studio chain, We have consistently strived for excellence in providing top-notch beauty services to people who want to look and feel beautiful. This recognition as the Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023 is a testament to our dedication and commitment to delivering outstanding beauty and grooming experiences.

Speaking about the recognition Richa Agarwal said, ” We have always believed that this award is a reflection of our hard work, creativity, and innovation in the field of makeup and beauty. Our skilled and talented team takes pride in their ability to transform every individual into their best version, enhancing their natural beauty and boosting their confidence. The Glorious National Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023 serves as a motivation for us. We will continue to provide exceptional services and staying at the forefront of the beauty industry. This achievement further solidifies our position as a leader in the field of makeup and beauty.

We celebrate this achievement and extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bhagyashree, Stylefistaa, and Runway Fashion Management for recognizing their efforts and honoring them with this prestigious award. We remain committed to offering unparalleled beauty experiences to its clients, ensuring that they look and feel their absolute best.

Richa Agarwal takes immense pride in receiving the Glorious National Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023. This recognition further establishes her reputation as a leading name in the industry.” Cleopatra looks forward to continuing its journey of excellence and providing exceptional beauty services to its valued clients”, stated Richa Agarwal.

Urvashi Rautela’s summer/Monsoon look is a headturner

In makeovers created by Beauty Experts Richa Agarwal & Harveen Kathuria Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela creates inspiration for summer and monsoon.

Indian actress, model and Miss Diva Universe (2015), Urvashi Rautela has never shied away from experimenting fashion forward looks as per the ever-evolving fashion trends.

For summer and monsoon season, she was seen to be the perfect muse for fashion portrayal organised by High on Persona, wherein she struck a flawless balance between being an elegant yet royal globetrotting woman.

Popular Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela set the bar high for an independent and empowered woman recently during an exclusive fashion showcasing. The complete transformation through stylish makeovers was done by ace makeover experts Richa Aggarwal and Harveen Kathuria from Cleopatra, Chandigarh. The looks for Urvashi Rautela were conceptualised and styled by Fashion Stylists Barkha Arora and Divya Khanna.

Urvashi Rautela presented a beautifully depicted image of a woman who is successful, confident, free-spirited, and is connected to her roots and traditions through the way she presents herself. Her makeoversby a team of stylists and experts complemented the white business suit she wore with elan. Her makeup was minimalist and elegant, with sheer lipgloss. The smocky eye makeup look was enhanced by gray and blue eyeshadows and baby peach lipgloss. Makeup for the look was enhanced with lightweight, mattifying gel based moisturiser that was applied on Urvashi , which is good to go in summer and monsoon season.

For the second look, the team picked a beautiful lehanga ensemble with cape in Georgette for the yellow ensemble. Urvashi looked vibrant and playful in this look which was adorned with intricate sequins and embroidery. For makeup, a nude look was opted for with subtle and light eye makeup and sheer lip gloss in a nude shade. Jewellery in Polki and emerald worked well with the yellow ensemble and completed the look.

This look was teamed up with silver jewellery that presented a perfect look for occasions in summer. During a fashion shoot and previewing for High on Persona, the actress donned a look which presented an elegant and edgy amalgamation of contemporary and traditional. Urvashi exuded just the appropriate amount of glitz and confidence in her yellow ethnic look, which she complemented with an array of accessories by Jia Diamonds and a statement watch by Just Cavalli Watches. While her white formal pantsuit ensemble reigned supreme. This modish looks that were amplified by sleek hairdo, kohl-rimmed eyes, subtle make-up, and statement necklace presented perfect inspiration for summer and monsoon fashion trends for vivid occasions.Outfits for Urvashi were designed by Arshi Singhal and the jewellery was sourced from Ranishaa and Jia Diamonds.