Molton Brown Skinbalance Toning Lotion

RRP: £18 for 200ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Our skinbalance toning lotion exfoliates your face and removes dead skin cells. While softening skin using American pumpkin enzymes, pink grapefruit, lime and yeast extract combine to strengthen the skin and reduce moisture loss. Alcohol-free and gentle enough to use around the eye area, this is suitable for all skin types."

--Packaging--
A nice, round, curvaceous bottle made from clear plastic, with a luxurious silver-effect screwtop lid and a few peaceful flower-style decorations. Clearly part of the Molton Brown brand and would look sophisticated on anyone's bathroom shelf.

--Application--
After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with some toner and wipe around your whole face to remove any traces of dirt and makeup.

--Scent--
None of the scents really come through individually, but the overall result is a natural sweet smell which I guess comes from the pumpkin enzymes and yeast extract. Very pleasant to use, and the scent is minimal too, meaning little or no interference with perfume.

--Appearance--
A clear, watery liquid. After use, skin appears slightly mattified and less oily.

--Sensation--
No effects, which means this would probably be good for sensitive skin. Very light and gentle.

--Effects over time--
It seems to remove residual traces effectively, which in itself would indicate an improvement in skin condition. However, I didn't find that my acneic skin saw much improvement at all, which was a shame, and suggests that this toner may work better with other skin types (normal-dry-sensitive).

--Value for money--
It seems a little foolhardy to trust something that claims to be 'for all skin types', so if you have a specific skincare need, you would be better spending the £18 on a product from a company that can provide that, such as Clinique, Lush, or Liz Earle. As an oily skin type I saw little or no difference in the condition of my skin, so would be unlikely to purchase this again. I would, however, be more willing to try some Molton Brown products more specific to my skin type to see if they can deliver on other promises.

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