The insider has but one aim. To bring to the forefront what it is about makeup that makes your fav Bloggers fall head over heels in love with it! This week is going to be about what Pooja of http://www.beautybrainsbrawns.blogspot.in had to say to us..

1. What was it that prompted you to begin writing about beauty and make up?

When I entered the beauty blogging world some 2 years back, I didn’t know it was so huge. I only knew of 3-4 Indian blogs, that I read for product reviews. I got really inspired from them and thought (after a year almost) why don’t I too share my views on the products I own, which maybe of help to others. I planned about my blog over 1-2 months of time (I remember I was having my semester exams then and was eagerly waiting for it to end so that I could start my blog ), like how it would look, what should be there and what not, how to write up the posts, and then started blogging with the  little stash of products I had at that time.

2. For how long has your blog been up and running?

I started my blog on 1^st June, 2011, so its around a year that it is up and running.

3. From where did your love for makeup and beauty care stem? (first exposure)

I remember when I was a kid (around 8 or 9 years old) and attended classical dance classes and performed a few times on stage, I used to get highly excited about the get ups and the makeup for the performances. I remember clearly, I once told the makeup artist there to put a little more lipstick color as it has faded a bit. That shows, how much I was attracted to makeup and all. But, during my teenage years I thought minimal makeup (read: Lipgloss and Kohl liners ONLY) is the best. Cut to present, my skin changed a lot and I had bouts of adult acne which made my skin look dull, hence came makeup to the rescue, though it is still minimal to an extent (read: Tinted moisturizer, Face Powder, Lipstick, Lipgloss, Kohl liners, and Blush and Eye shadows at times )

4. What was the first beauty product you ever used?

Other than trying out my mom’s products as a little kid, I think the first product I tried was, Lakme lipgloss (tube)….or was it the Lakme Compact ?! Has to be one between these  two!

5. Your most loved product that you just can’t do without? And why?

I love to use a tinted moisturiser, along with a little lipstick and kajal that suits my everyday minimal makeup look. Loving the Maybelline CD lippie in Coral Lustre and take it with myself wherever I go!

6. How is it that you believe you are able to help your readers?

When I do a product review, I try to explain all the points, where the product worked and where it lacked for me. I clearly mention how did the product acts on my skin/skintone/hairtype. If someone has similar  skin/skintone/hairtype then the review helps them to decide whether the product would work for them or not. Having said that, I am not a skin/hair expert, nor do I have thorough knowledge about all the chemicals/ingredients in a product. I post my views in layman terms like any other regular user of the product and how I feel about it.

7. What does it feel like knowing that your words influence decisions that matter so much to those that come to you with questions?

It definitely feels great when you come to know that someone has benefited from your reviews/suggestions. I get a few queries from my readers time to time, and love to help them out with the best of my knowledge!

8. Have you ever met one of your subscribers face to face? How does it feel?

Many of my friends know about my blog and follow it. Have also talked with few other blogger buddies on chat or phone and really bonded up with them!

9. How has caring about yourself influenced your life? Personally and professionally?

I had very dry skin and rough hair. Caring about them and using the right products has definitely improved their texture and quality (though my skin still has a long way to go). Adding a touch of makeup, helps to look presentable and nice and boosts up my confidence.

10. What is the one thing that you would advise people to follow as a beauty care routine on a daily basis?

Water is the best cleanser. Don’t forget to wash your face atleast 3-4 times everyday with plain water. And drink loads of water to cleanse your system internally.

11. In 2 lines, how has the Affiliate program worked for you?

The StyleCraze affiliate program has been going great for me. I am sure you could check out the tracking details from Mr.Sangram Simha. I would like to suggest some new banners with new discounts every once in a while, to grab more attention of the readers. As you had suggested earlier about specific/special discounts on different brands for different affiliates, I think that could be a great idea too. I love your site and I whole heartedly endorse it, as you might know already.