Garnier Body Sensitive Soothing Restorative Balm

RRP: £5.99 for 200ml @ www.mistrys.co.uk

--What does the promo say?--
"This balm can be used all over the body to give very dry, very sensitive skin that extra special attention it needs. It is non-greasy, and is quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving it feeling nourished with moisture and less tight. Enriched with Maple Sap & Allantoin extract, the Garnier experts have created this formula to intensely moisturise and soothe skin, to help restore comfort & suppleness."

--Packaging--
Very similar to the famous Neutrogena Norwegian Cream as used by Darcey Bussell (now retired British prima ballerina), but still with the famous Garnier 'leaf' motif and usual brand name logo. It's pretty comprehensive, with the main ingredients (maple sap and allantoin), main function (to relieve dry skin), target audience (those with dry and/or sensitive skin) and the British Skin Foundation endorsement all clearly marked. And yet despite all this information crammed onto the front of the white tube, it doesn't look 'busy' or confusing. It's a substantial tube, with a simple flip-top lid made from opaque white plastic. Quite unisex too.

--Application--
Rub a little into any part of your suffering body (although perhaps obviously, not including the face) in order to banish dry skin. You really don't need much, which is good.

--Appearance--
White cream, which leaves no residue on the skin.

--Texture/consistency--
It's of perfect consistency: not too stiff and not too runny. It's also somehow both everyday and luxurious, though I'd say it's greasier than they claim and doesn't absorb too well, taking its time on this score.

--Scent--
Smells pretty fragrance free to me - Garnier certainly keeps its promise here.

--Short-term effects--
I only really suffer with dry skin on my feet, but here it works just as well as its competitors, sending dry skin packing.

--Long-term effects--
While the cream does have to be used regularly, there is undoubtedly noticeable improvement over time. There is a definite reduction of dry skin, with no adverse effects such as itching or redness.

--Value for money--
At £7.99, it's a little more expensive than I thought it would be, but I would certainly buy it at Mistrys' price. This versatile and effective cream is worth adding to anyone's bathroom cabinet.