Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Lotion

RRP: from £3.99/250ml
Number of varieties available: 3 (shea butter/warm vanilla; sweet almond/hibiscus; coconut/jasmine)

--What does the promo say?--

"Lavished with intensely nurturing ingredients, the NEW Purely Pampering skincare collection from Dove has been created to infuse the skin with the care it deserves, everyday, and wrap it in irresistible fragrance. The Dove Purely Pampering formulations deliver delicious care to skin, and are available in three lusciously scented variants – Shea Butter and Warm Vanilla, Almond Cream & Hibiscus and Coconut Milk & Jasmine Petals. Containing Dove’s unique DeepCare Complex, an infusion of skin-natural nutrients and rich essential oil for deep down nourishment, Dove Purely Pampering promises long lasting, smooth skin. Let the indulgent ingredients nourish your skin, to deliver our most irresistible care."

--Packaging--

The three bottles are ergonomically designed, with a curved ridge cut into the side of the bottle for easy handling (even with lotion-covered hands!) and an easy-to-use flip-top lid. All three variants are clearly part of the same range, but the differently-coloured labels make it easy to distinguish between them. Generally the lids work well, but there is some risk of leakage (only 2 out of 3 of these arrived from Dove's lovely PR people completely full), so be careful!

--Application--

Rub a strawberry-sized amount between the hands to warm the lotion and then rub into clean dry skin. Repeat as desired until whole body is moisturised (or 'basted' as my delightful husband says. I AM NOT A CHICKEN :p).

--Appearance--

A white cream that is thick without being mousse-like. It comes out of the tube easily without rushing out. Wastage is easily avoided. The lotion itself rubs easily into the skin with no visible residue.

--Scent--

With three different varieties available, there should be something for everyone. Here's my verdict on each of them. The shea butter and warm vanilla is pleasant, although the shea butter shows more than the vanilla. I had expected some slightly spicier elements also (perhaps cardamom or cinnamon notes would have been good). The coconut and jasmine version is well-balanced, with the coconut not being overbearing - the last thing you want is for your body lotion to smell like sunscreen! The almond and hibiscus is the best of the lot though: well-balanced and creative, with the fruitiness of the hibiscus coming through later. All, however, are delightful and merit future purchase.

--Texture and consistency--

All of the lotions absorbed very well and were not sticky, runny or greasy. Result.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin felt not just immediately softer but also smoother throughout the day, suggesting a definite possibility of longer-term results.

--Value for money--

Dove's body lotions are priced in line with similar brands such as Palmer's and E45, and compete equally on quality and scent. As promised in their promotional materials, they provide effective care for skin along with a luxurious at-home pampering experience. Would recommend.

perfect partners

Dove Purely Pampering Body Wash, £2.40

Dove Purely Pampering Body Cream, £4.99

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Hand Cream, £3.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Cream Hand Wash, £1.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Bar, £1.59