Beauty in the City of Joy: My Makeup & Skincare Finds in Kolkata
Exploring Beauty in the City of Joy
Visiting Kolkata was more than just sightseeing and trying street food; it became a complete beauty adventure. As a makeup and skincare fan, I was drawn to the city’s lively markets and trendy cosmetics shops. Kolkata surprised me with its mix of old-world charm and modern trends. Traditional bazaars overflowed with handmade goods while sleek malls housed global brands. I was eager to find both budget-friendly items and a few luxury splurges to enhance my travel glow.
Treasure Hunting in Kolkata’s Markets
My first stop was the legendary New Market, a bustling bazaar alive with energy, color, and hidden treasures around every corner. Amid the lively atmosphere of bargaining shoppers and vibrant displays, I found stalls selling everything from herbal skincare products to bold lipsticks at amazing prices. I picked up a few locally made items, including a fragrant rosewater toner and an organic kajal eyeliner that applied smoothly. It was wonderful to see that many of these products were handmade and chemical-free-a lovely mix of tradition and beauty. No wonder Kolkata’s locals are known for their natural beauty secrets like rosewater and kajal; you can buy age-old beauty remedies here alongside the latest trends. In between shopping, I chatted with friendly shopkeepers who eagerly explained how to use each product (one insisted I try a sandalwood face pack for a true Bengali glow!). The market’s vintage charm and treasure-hunt feel made the experience unforgettable.
Modern Glamour in High-End Malls
For a taste of modern glam, I went to South City Mall, where the air-conditioned comfort felt heavenly after the outdoor markets. There, I visited a Nykaa store and a Sephora-it was like stepping into a makeup paradise in the middle of Kolkata! Surrounded by sleek counters showcasing international and Indian brands, I treated myself to a few cult-favorite items I had been wanting. I grabbed Maybelline’s Fit Me foundation (a lightweight base perfect for the city’s humid weather) and splurged on a hydrating facial mist from The Face Shop that instantly refreshed my sun-tired skin. I also discovered Indian brands I hadn’t tried before, like Kay Beauty (founded by Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif) and Plum, which quickly became new favorites due to their quality and values. It was impressive to see global brands and local ones side by side on the shelves, catering to every budget and style. Whether you want a high-end lipstick from Estée Lauder or an affordable herbal moisturizer from a local brand, Kolkata’s mall stores have you covered.
Travel Glow Essentials for Kolkata
One thing I learned: in Kolkata’s hot and humid climate, less is more when it comes to daily makeup. I kept my beauty routine simple and travel-friendly, allowing me to stay glamorous while exploring. My daily essentials included a few key items. For anyone wondering how I maintained a fresh-faced glow despite the weather, here are my must-haves:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50) – Essential to protect against the strong sun while sightseeing.
- Matte Compact Powder – To fight midday shine and keep my face looking fresh and sweat-free.
- Waterproof Mascara – Humidity-proof lashes that stayed smudge-free through temple visits and tram rides.
- Lip & Cheek Tint – A multipurpose tint for a quick pop of color on my lips and cheeks for a healthy glow.
With just these few products in my bag, I stayed comfortable and photo-ready all day. Dressed in a breezy cotton kurti with sunglasses and a sunhat, I felt both stylish and practical-proof that you can balance fashion with travel needs. Minimal effort and maximum glow became my beauty mantra in Kolkata.
Kolkata: A Beauty Lover’s Paradise
In the end, Kolkata turned out to be a hidden gem for beauty enthusiasts like me. The city offers something for everyone: if you’re into skincare, you’ll appreciate the natural, traditional products; if you love makeup, you’ll enjoy the variety of brands and trends available. I left Kolkata with my suitcase packed with new beauty finds and my heart filled with joy. From its charming markets to its modern shops, Kolkata showed me that travel and beauty can go hand in hand. If you’re a makeup lover visiting India, don’t miss Kolkata’s beauty scene-it’s worth the detour!
