Sisley Radiant Glow Express Mask

RRP: £52/60ml

--What does the promo say?--
"A relaxing, softening and highly absorbent mask that cleanses the surface of the skin gently yet thoroughly. The extraordinary absorption capacity of a special blend of Clays, combined with plant extracts (Licorice, Matricaria and Rose hips) and essential oils, gives this mask gentle deep-cleansing benefits to eliminate the impurities which dull the complexion. In five minutes at the most, your skin feels fresh, clean and toned, your complexion looks matte, luminous and more even, your face appears rested and regains spectacular radiance."

--Packaging--
Having only tried this on a sample basis, I can't really say, but it looks like a fairly basic twist-top tube. The pink of the tube is a nice touch in the world of face masks (where most packages are white or green) and it just bears the information that you need to know.

--Application--
Apply a generous layer to clean skin on face and neck. After 3-5 minutes, remove with lukewarm water and follow with toner. No problems here - though I usually follow my masks with moisturiser, not with toner, otherwise surely you're wiping away all the good stuff you've just put in?

--Appearance--
A nacreous pink lotion that looks beautiful. Looks more chalky once applied to the face, and leaves no visible residue on the face after use.

--Texture/consistency--
Very smooth and quite runny (not so watery that any would be wasted on its exit from the tube, though), although perhaps begins to feel slightly 'heavier' and more intense during use as the essential oils do their work.

--Scent--
Quite heavily perfumed, but that's bound to be the case given how packed full of essential oils and fruit extracts this is.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
Very definitely 'treated' - as if you've just been for a facial. Very smooth and soft.

--How does your skin look afterwards?--
Sadly, I saw no difference at all (in fact, it was possibly even slightly redder due to the concentration of the oils that it contains) and for this price, I would have expected to.

--Value for money--
This is pretty expensive, and for this price I am pretty much expecting miracles, and this mask just didn't provide (I'd especially warn those with sensitive skin to avoid it). If you're going to spend in this price range, push the boat out another £6 and get Crème de La Mer's Refining Facial, which really does deliver awe-inspiring results. If your budget is lower, however, there are plenty of masks with similar ingredients that just contain fewer essential oils. Kaolin (or clay) is probably the most important ingredient here, and there are oodles of clay masks on the market that won't leave quite such a big hole in your pocket.

perfect partners
Sisley Botanical Creamy Mousse Cleanser, £52.50
Sisley Gentle Facial Buffing Cream, £40
Sisley Express Flower Gel, £72
Sisley Botanical Night Complex, £131