Lee Stafford Coco Loco with Agave Blow and Go 11-in-1 Lotion

 RRP: £6.99

--What does the promo say?--

"This moisturising Genius Lotion is packed full of coconutty goodness. And now blended with Agave Essence for added moisture, movement and shine. The tropical tube does at least 11 things including helping to repair damaged hair and strengthen it.

• Conditions, Nourishes & Smooths
• Protects from heat styling
• Shields against humidity and protects against colour fade
• Improves combability
• Softens and enhances shine
• New tropical Coconut and Agave fragrance"

--Packaging--

The light pink colour scheme clearly identifies this product as part of the Coco Loco range and gives an elegant and feminine impression, accentuated by the gold lettering. The coconut imagery makes the main ingredient central and the 11 benefits are identified concisely on the packaging as well. The flip-top tube makes for practical use on a day-to-day basis.

--Application--

Smooth liberally over towel-dried hair, then dry and style as normal.

--Appearance--

A bright white lotion which leaves no visible residue on the skin or hair.

--Scent--

Beautifully coconutty, but perhaps not terribly nuanced.

--Texture and consistency--

Incredibly smooth and combs through hair easily.

--Effects on the hair--

Hair feels volumised and smoothed, with frizz being minimised. The conditioning effects are immediately apparent and over time hair is undoubtedly strengthened. Blonde hair also appears more luminous and wavy hair is tamed sufficiently between washes without having to fight to brush it.

--Value for money--

One tube provides many uses, and the effect of just one use is confidence-boosting and stress-reducing. Hair has volume and shine without frizz, and this effect lasts for days to tame and straighten hair. While I was sent mine for free by Lee Stafford's PR, I would shell out my hard-earned on this without a shadow of a doubt. An indulgent treat that makes managing your hair easier.

perfect partners

Shampoo, £1.99-£10.99 (50ml, 250ml, 600ml)

Conditioner, £1.99-£10.99 (50ml, 250ml, 600ml)

Hairspray, £5.99 (250ml)

Mousse, £5.99 (200ml)

Moisture Mist, £6.99 (150ml)

Dry Shampoo, £4.99 (200ml)

Heat Protection Mist, £5.99 (150ml)

Blow & Go 11-in-1 Lotion, £6.99 (100ml)

Colour & Damage Defender, £4.99 (100ml)

Mask, from £1.99 (20ml)

Lee Stafford Coco Loco with Agave Shine Mask

 

RRP: £7.99 for 200ml (20ml travel version £1.99)

--What does the promo say?--

"An Intensive Treatment designed to bring hair back to life. This moisturising Coconut Mask with Hydrolyzed Milk Protein and Agave essence, works to reduce protein loss, strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Moisturising, strengthening, smoothing. Enhances shine. New tropical Coconut and Agave fragrance."

--Packaging--

Mine arrived from Lee Stafford's PR in a neat little 20ml sachet, which is perfect for travel. For at home use, you can buy a whole pot of the stuff with a practical screw-top lid. Both capitalise on the range's pale pink colour scheme and position images of the product's key ingredients prominently. The "Coco Loco" element of the logo is embossed onto the packaging in shiny gold letters, adding a further luxurious feel.

--Application--

Smooth through wet hair after shampooing. Use around 20mls-worth through your entire head of hair, smoothing it through to the end. Leave in for 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly; you can also follow up with conditioner if you like, but I didn't find it was necessary.

--Appearance--

A pale pink lotion which leaves no visible residue on the hair.

--Scent--

As promised, very coconutty, and as such immediately evocative of summer holidays, without going full suntan lotion on you.

--Texture and consistency--

Sumptuously thick without being lumpy, and smooths through hair easily, without sliding out during the treatment time. Conversely, when you want to wash it out, this is not tricky at all, with no sticky residue.

--Effects on the hair--

Hair definitely felt softer and fluffier, and visibly voluminised and shinier. Does everything it promises! I also found I could go longer between hair washes (always a blessing when you have longer hair) when using this product.

--Value for money--

The large pot of this contains 200ml, or approximately 10 uses. This comes to 79p a use - definitely worth your dosh. While the single-use sachets are more expensive than this, they're great for pimping your hairdo while travelling, and I would still thoroughly recommend them as an affordable treat that has the desired effect. Lee Stafford...the boy done good.

perfect partners*

Shampoo, £1.99-£10.99 (50ml, 250ml, 600ml)

Conditioner, £1.99-£10.99 (50ml, 250ml, 600ml)

Hairspray, £5.99 (250ml)

Mousse, £5.99 (200ml)

Moisture Mist, £6.99 (150ml)

Dry Shampoo, £4.99 (200ml)

Heat Protection Mist, £5.99 (150ml)

Blow & Go 11-in-1 Lotion, £6.99 (100ml)

Colour & Damage Defender, £4.99 (100ml)

*at the time of writing, use code NATIONALHAIRDAY at www.leestafford.com to get 15% off!

Yes to COCONUT Ultra-hydrating moisturising coconut oil stick

RRP: £9.99

--What does the promo say?--

“Yes to going (coco) nuts for coconut oil and this first ever, do-it-all moisturising miracle in a stick, which is a clean, easy, mess-free way to apply it. It can be used on the face, body or anywhere you need extra hydration. It has a non-greasy texture and melts on contact with the skin. Consider this your holy grail of head-to-toe hydration, especially when on-the-go.”

--Packaging--

The product is in a wide stick dispenser, with a clear, screwtop lid and a twist-up mechanism at the bottom.  Of course, as with so many beauty products these days, it is a ‘single-use plastic’ and needs to be recycled. Attractive and eye-catching, it has a brown and white label with golden coconuts on it and a wide gold band around the lid.  Full instructions can be found on the back of the label. The advantage of a moisturiser in a stick is that no matter how much of the product is used, the stick will always stand neatly in your bathroom, unlike tubes which tend to topple over when nearly empty.  It is also a handy travel size and would fit into your handbag if you wanted to re-moisturise during the day whilst at work. As on all Yes To packaging, "Literally, front and centre on all our products you’ll find our seal showing each and every product contains at least 95% NATURAL INGREDIENTS." (See their mission statement on their website for more!)

--Application--

Designed to be mess-free, this way of applying moisturiser is unique and highly successful.  You simply swipe it across the areas you wish to moisturise. I found that one swipe the length of my arm enabled me to moisturise virtually my entire arm (I do have quite thin arms though!).  The product spreads even further once you have applied it. It is definitely a clean and mess-free way to apply moisturiser as you do not have to rub it in if you do not wish to.

--Appearance--

A thick, opaque, creamy-looking solid stick. Once on, it leaves your skin with a wonderful silky shimmer after application.  It looks great on tanned legs too. A finishing touch for going out on a summer evening.

--Scent--

Delicious and unmistakable.  Great if you like coconuts! Reminiscent of suntan lotion - though others may find it overpowering and sweet.

--Texture and consistency--

The texture is thick and creamy. Silky on application and non-greasy, as promised.

--Effects on the skin--

This moisturiser is a WOW for dry skin.  Lines and dryness disappear completely. Some people may find it rather too shiny and thick on the face but on the body it is just what dry skin needs.

--Value for money--

Compared to other products on the market, Yes To products are extremely well-priced.  You need to bear in mind, though, that you probably need to buy these sticks more frequently than you would buy a large tube or pot of moisturiser, especially if you are using it over your entire face and body - my satisfaction with the quality of this product has meant that I am already on my second stick.

perfect partners

Yes to Coconut 2-step lip kit, £4.99

Yes to Coconut Ultra-hydrating paper mask, £2.99

Yes to Coconut Ultra-hydrating Micellar cleansing water, £6.99

Yes to Coconut naturally smoothing lip balm, £3.79

Yes to Coconuts Coconut oil cleansing balm, £9.99

Yes to Coconuts Energising Coffee 2-in-1 scrub and cleanser stick, £9.99

Yes to Coconuts Energising Coffee super eye mask, £2.99

by Sarah Cross

Skin Doctors Exfoliating Crystals

RRP: £18.99/100ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Skin Doctors present the Exfoliating Crystals; a refining scrub that utilises microencapsulated beads to deliver a powerful exfoliating action, without scratching or damaging skin. Working to buff away dead and dull skin cells, the advanced crystals minimise the appearance of visible pores, wrinkles, pigmentation and uneven skin tone, revealing brighter, smoother results.

Infused with Melaleuca Alternifolia (Australian Tea Tree Oil), known for its anti-bacterial properties, its formula helps treat infections, acne and blemishes so you can experience visibly improved, refreshed and clearer skin with every use. Skin is left radiant and velvety soft. Suitable for use on the face and body."

--Packaging--

The monochrome scheme, with a discreet band of silver above the lid, is both sophisticated and unisex. The flip-top lid is practical and easy to use. However, for obvious environmental reasons, it would be appreciated to see the brand moving away from plastic packaging in the future.

--Application--

Cleanse the face thoroughly and pat dry before rubbing a small amount of the product over the skin. Dust off the crystals with a dry face cloth. Rinse the area thoroughly and then pat dry again. Use 1-2 times a week. All very straightforward.

--Appearance--

A white paste/lotion with barely detectable white granular particles. It is emphasised on the Skin Doctors website that these are *not* microbeads (without telling us what they in fact *are*).

--Scent--

The tea tree oil is subtly detectable.

--Texture and consistency--

Satisfyingly scrubby while still feeling moisturising.

--Effects on the skin--

Mattifying and calming in the immediate instance, while improving complexion long term and giving a brightening effect.

--Value for money--

At £18.99 a pop this is in line with other premium brands such as Ren, Clarins, Clinique and Kiehls, and quality-wise compares well with them, producing clear results. Would recommend.

perfect partners

pH Balancing Cleanser, £12.99

Gamma Hydroxy, £41.99

Body Shop Coconut Shower Cream

RRP: from £2

--What does the promo say?--
"Indulge in the tropical, fresh scent of coconuts with our creamy, soap-free shower cream. Enriched with virgin coconut oil, your skin will feel softer and cleansed after every use. Rich, creamy texture. Sweet, light coconut scent. Community Trade cold-pressed virgin coconut oil from Samoa, Polynesia. Community Trade organic soya oil from Brazil."

--Packaging--
The bottle is mostly made of clear plastic, meaning you can easily see how much is left. The iconic Body Shop logo is clearly visible, backed by a brown circle evoking the coconut scent. The black band behind this is sophisticated and minimalistic, as is the text on the bottle, and the black flip-top lid is practical for use in the shower.

--Usage--
Squeeze some shower cream into your hand and rub over wet skin before rinsing off.

--Appearance--
The cream is nacreous in appearance and produces a slight white lather. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--
The coconut is of course dominant and feels authentic - likely thanks to the incorporation of virgin coconut oil. Sadly, it doesn't last on the skin as well as I might have liked.

--Texture and consistency--
The cream is extremely thick and viscous, but slackens on contact with water. Little lather is created due to the cream being soap-free. A luxurious effect is therefore created.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin feels constantly moisturised: at the moment I am using no other body moisturising product on my arms. I have been using some after-sun due to a touch of sunburn last weekend, but the difference is that while elsewhere on my body the sunburn has peeled (even with use of the aftersun), on my arms the sunburn has healed very naturally with no peeling at all. All hail the power of the oils!

--Value for money--
At £2 for a travel size you can't go wrong - and even £5 for 250ml is hardly going to break the bank. A little of the product goes a long way and it is a joy to use. Mine was a gift, but I would consider spending my own money on this for myself or others. Body Shop, you've done it again.

perfect partners
Coconut Hand Cleanse Gel, £2.50
Coconut Soap, £2.50
Coconut Milk Body Lotion, from £3
Coconut Lip Butter, from £4.50
Coconut Hand Cream, £5
Coconut Oil Hair Shine, from £5.50
Coconut Exfoliating Cream Body Scrub, from £6
Coconut Nourishing Body Butter, from £6
Coconut Treats, from £6
Coconut Body Mist, £8
Coconut Oil Brilliantly Nourishing Pre-Shampoo Hair Oil, £8
Coconut Eau de Toilette, £9
Coconut Essential Selection, from £20
Coconut Premium Collection, from £30

Bilou Shower Foam

RRP: £3.99

--What does the promo say?--
"bilou creamy shower foam – made with love & passion. Yummy fragrances to sweeten your day. At bilou, we ensure we use high-quality ingredients and our products are 100% vegan."

--Packaging--
The shower foam comes in a white pressurised canister which is adorned with a cheeky cartoonish design and the cheerful scrawl of the bilou logo. The ring of colour around the plastic lid corresponds with the fragrance (e.g. pink for doughnut) and it's easy to pull this off even in the shower. The spray mechanism only needs to be pressed once, lightly, to release a good amount of foam.

--Application--
Press the top of the pump gently to release a generous amount of foam. Lather up, enjoy the scent, and then rinse.

--Appearance--
Currently five varieties of the shower foam are available in the UK; all have the same thick white foam, which doesn't leave

any visible residue.

--Scent--
Of the five scents available at the moment, the donut, cotton candy and berry are my favourites, with the former two being super sweet and sugary, and the latter being zingy and fruity. I discount the other two only on the grounds of them not being my favourite smells just generally - but there's no denying the accuracy of the scents, with the added bonus of them being a bit of a nostalgic throwback to 1990s scented gel pens.

--Texture and consistency--
Thick and luxurious; definitely doesn't wash down the drain straight away.

--Effects on the skin--
Some of the scents (perhaps especially my two favourites - donut and cotton candy) may seem quite artificially constructed, so it's quite a pleasant surprise to find natural ingredients such as plant oils present in the product. As a result, skin feels smooth and moisturised as well as divinely scented.

--Value for money--
At £3.99 a pop this is cheerful, luxurious and definitely won't break the bank - and makes your skin feel great to boot. I was sent mine for free, but would definitely purchase in future (not to mention seek out other scents overseas...chocolate cupcake?! Yes please!!).

perfect partners
Body Spray, £3.99
Cream Foam, £3.99

Beuti Beauty Sleep Elixir

RRP: £42 for 30ml

--What does the promo say?--
"With its 14 precious plant oils Beauty Sleep Elixir supports skin barrier function and plays a key role in fighting inflammation. Packed with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients that counteract irritation and inflammation. Beauty Sleep Elixir can be worn under makeup in the evening and boosts skin tone, acting as an on the spot blemish treatment due to its anti-inflammatory powers and brightens the complexion for no makeup days. During precious beauty sleep, skin renews itself thanks to this product's super boost of vitamins, minerals and a complete omega hit of 3,5,6,7 and 9, letting you wake up to beautiful glowing skin. Softalia, from a sustainable plantation in Australia, counteracts inflammation and has unique activity on the skin due to its ximenynic acid content, helping hydration and reducing fine lines. Caribbean coral neutralizes the enzyme responsible for skin ageing, acne and sunburn and is one of the worlds most potent anti-inflammatory ingredients."

--Packaging--
The opaque glass bottle is perfect for a product of this type as it enables you to see exactly how much is left at all times, as well as letting the beautiful amber colour of the oil shine through. Equally, the minimalist product information on the bottle and the silvery band and lid contribute to a classy effect. The pump-action mechanism is practical and minimises waste.

--Application--
Massage into face, hands or body for use as a moisturiser. You can also use it to cleanse or remove makeup with by massaging over the face and then removing the oil immediately with a cotton pad.

--Appearance--
A golden orange oil that disappears invisibly into the skin, leaving no residue.

--Scent--
The woodier scents are dominant in this, so I'm guessing the sandalwood is largely at play here. However, a citrus element is also detectable thanks to the sea buckthorn: a hard berry reminiscent of orange and lemon.

--Texture and consistency--
A smooth, non-greasy oil which absorbs quickly into the skin.

--Effects on the skin--
Has deeply moisturising properties which work well on all areas of the body as well as the face. Perfect for these sunnier times of the year when skin may dry out from exposure to the sun, the sea, or chlorinated swimming pools.

--Value for money--
A little goes a very long way and the product is clearly composed of high quality ingredients (which, for what it's worth, are 98% organic and 100% natural). An excellent multi-purpose product for affordable luxury moisturisation.

Kick Start Coconut Oil

RRP: from £12

--What does the promo say?--
"Kick Start Organic Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil is pure virgin coconut oil from Sri Lanka. Kick Start Organic Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil has not been hydrogenated, bleached, refined or deodorised. It comes from the finest coconut palms on the west coast of Sri Lanka, which are grown using traditional farming methods and no pesticides. It is cold pressed and filtered in modern, hygienic conditions in Sri Lanka – from crop to shop. The large 920g tub is an economical and environmentally friendly way of buying Kick Start Organic Cold Pressed  Virgin Coconut Oil. This large tub will keep you going for longer and offers excellent value for money, the foil seal and screw top lid will ensure that your virgin coconut oil will remain fresh. Kick Start Organic Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil  has organic certification from three separate bodies: Soil Association, USDA Organic, and Control Union. Produced from the pick of the palms in Sri Lanka, the palms have been specifically planted and nurtured carefully to meet the strict criteria and high quality that you require. The coconuts are grown in the west of Sri Lanka and to the north of the capital, Colombo, and are traditionally harvested and cold pressed."

--Packaging--
The black and red colour scheme on a white background, with a preponderance of capital letters, is unisex and punchy, and as mentioned, the foil seal and screw-top lid do help to keep the product fresh. However, while tubs do enable minimal wastage, they're not the most practical in terms of scooping the oil out and making sure none gets on the side of the pot - a pump action bottle would be far more practical and hygienic. 

--Application--
How you use this depends on what you've been using it for; as you can probably see from my tags, I've been using it for basically everything. First of all, to remove makeup or cleanse skin, just rub onto the face directly with your hands before wiping off with a cotton pad or tissue. Any excess can be rubbed into your hands and cuticles, or onto other areas of your body. If there's any left on your face, it doesn't matter, as it's an excellent moisturiser. If using this as a hair mask, run the oil through dry hair and cover your pillow with a towel so that you can sleep with the oil in your hair overnight before shampooing it out in the morning.

--Scent--
A full, natural and unadulterated coconut smell; sweet without being overpowering.

--Appearance--
White and waxy when stored below 18°C. It begins to melt from this temperature upwards and by the time it reaches 24°C it turns into a transparent oil, which leaves no visible residue on the skin or hair.

--Texture and consistency--
As mentioned, it depends on the temperature at which you keep it - so, waxy or oily. However, it absorbs reasonably quickly into body skin and is easy to wash out of hair after using it as a hair mask. Go easy with it if you're using it as a facial moisturiser, though, as it can leave skin looking a bit shiny if you use too much.

--Effects on the body--
An excellent moisturiser for face and body, with facial skin in particular seeing fewer spots and generally looking less angry. (You'd think that using oil on already oily skin would make the situation worse, but it actually doesn't. Post on the oil cleansing method coming soon!) As a hair mask it's equally good, helping to detangle, defrizz and condition hair. It also removes makeup very well.

--Value for money--
With the website offering discounts for buying 2 or 3 pots, as well as upgrading to the bigger 920g pot, you can really spend as much or as little as you like, and watch the value soar when buying in bulk. However, one 460g pot costs a very reasonable £12 for the quantity and quality of the product that you receive. Mine was free, but I would definitely pay this as it's such a fabulous multi-use product (and I haven't even started on the fact that it's food grade too and you can therefore cook with it - look out for an upcoming post on my food blog soon!) that works well on hair, face, hands and body - and it's ethically sourced into the bargain. Bravo!

Grahams Natural Shampoo and Conditioner

RRP: £11.99 each
 
--What does the promo say?--
"A gentle blend of organic and natural ingredients to relieve and protect a dry and sensitive scalp."

--Packaging--
The bright yellow and blue combination is bold, youthful, unisex and unique, meaning it would definitely stand out on the shelf.

--Usage--
Business as usual here: lather up the shampoo and massage through wet hair before rinsing out. Follow this by smoothing the conditioner through the roots and leave for a few minutes before washing it out. The usual amount required; a blob around the size of a 50p piece should suffice in each case.

--Appearance--
Both come out an unorthodox blue colour; no idea where this comes from. They foam whiter, though, and leave no visible residue.

--Texture and consistency--
As is normal, the conditioner doesn't lather as such, but just remains a blue, creamy, slightly pearlescent lotion. The shampoo foams up a bit into a slightly whiter concoction with some effort, but again, is a blue nacreous cream to start with. Both rinse out without difficulty.

--Scent--
Weirdly, slightly pepperminty or menthol-ish. Again, no idea where this originates. You can smell the coconut a bit if you sniff hard enough, which is good for those who aren't especial fans of the coconut scent.

--Effects on the hair--
Easily as effective as any commercial shampoo and conditioner, leaving hair softened, volumised and degreased. Scalp-wise, dry skin is definitely reduced and there is no irritation.

--Value for money--
Admittedly I balked at the price when I saw it online, but we perhaps shouldn't be so surprised: if we want quality results on our hair without the artificial ingredients, we surely need to pay for the care that goes into selecting authentic components. Commercial products are frequently so ludicrously cheap that we just aren't used to paying what things actually cost anymore. If by buying this you get good results without the chemicals, and kick dry and itchy scalps into touch too, then tant mieux. However, I think Grahams need to pimp the packaging if they want consumers to believe this is a high-end product that delivers equally good results. While this current packaging is unique and eye-catching, sophisticated it ain't. It's also significantly more expensive than, say, Lush's natural shampoo bars, which also deliver excellent results through natural ingredients, without the plasticated packaging. So while Grahams' hair products ultimately have a good basis, I'd say there's still a few tweaks to be made.

perfect partners
Grahams Natural Soap, £5.50
Grahams Natural Sooth-It Balm, £17.99
Grahams Natural Bath Oil, £14.50
Grahams Calendulis Plus Cream, from £13.95
Grahams Natural Kids Eczema Cream, £18.99

Green People Scent-Free Soft Lips SPF8

RRP: £4.95

--What does the promo say?--
"A natural lip balm which keeps your lips soft and protected. Conditions and protects, giving a natural sheen. Excellent for dry, sore and chapped lips. Gives SPF8 UV protection. ‘Scent Free' formulation ideal for sensitive lips (very mild taste from natural plant oils used as the product base). Contains organic coconut, cupuaçu, vitamin E, and berry wax. Green People Scent Free Soft Lips SPF8 is made without artificial perfumes, alcohol (ethyl alcohol, ethanol), parabens, petrochemicals, colourants, lanolin and phthalates to bring you the purest lip salve that nature can offer. 65% certified organic ingredients. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans."

 --Packaging--
A small white plastic tube that'll fit right in even the smallest pocket. The orange band is distinctive and cheerful and the screw-top lid proves secure and hygienic.

--Application--
The website advises applying a small amount of Scent Free Soft Lips only, and it's true that you'll only need a pea-sized amount. You also can apply from the tube to your lips directly, with no need to go via your fingers. Wear alone, or over lipstick for a subtle gloss effect.

--Appearance--
An opaque cream-coloured gel, which turns into an attractive sheen on the lips.

--Scent--
As promised, it's completely scent-free. They warn that a mild taste is possible, but I couldn't detect it.

--Texture and consistency--
While it appears slightly thick and lumpy, it still comes out of the tube easily without control being lost or product being wasted. On the lips, it's completely smooth and without stickiness. Definitely the love child of gloss and balm; Green People should definitely make colour versions!

--Effects on the skin--
Moisturises lips, protects from cold winds and sunshine, and is definitely scent-free. Top stuff.

--Value for money--
At £4.95, it's not the cheapest balm out there, but it's probably the cheapest it can be given the high quality of the ingredients and the brand's ethical credentials. The price means it's also competing with brands such as Burt's Bees, Avene, and Cowshed, meaning it's appropriately valued at worst and excellent value at best. Would recommend.

perfect partners
Neutral Scent-Free 24 Hour Cream, £14.95
Scent-Free Sun Lotion SPF25

Dove Purely Pampering Body Wash

RRP: £2.40
Number of varieties: 3 (shea butter/vanilla; coconut/jasmine; hibiscus/almond)

--What does the promo say?--
"A shower experience that nourishes and pampers. Dove Shea Butter with Warm Vanilla body wash blended with NutriumMoisture™ creates a gentle cloud of creamy lather that will leave you and your skin feeling restored and nourished. The warm scent fills the shower enveloping you with care, allowing you to feel balanced and renewed. Caring for yourself never felt so good."

--Packaging--
The body wash bottle has a lovely curved shape, and is just the right size to prevent you from dropping it in the shower. It tapers at the top to a tiny flip-top lid that is the same colour as the label, avoiding confusion in the shop or shower when you make a last-minute grab for the one you want from the range (there are 3).

--Application--
Lather up under the shower, luxuriate for as long as you like, and then rinse off. Classic.

--Appearance--
A white, slightly foamy yet still substantial cream wash. Leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
There are three varieties of this available, but I have just tested one (the shea butter and warm vanilla version). It definitely delivers on the shea butter hit; less so on the vanilla front.

--Texture and consistency--
Lathers up really well, and stays on the skin for as long as you want it to. Rinses off easily when it's time to.

--Effects on the skin--
Seems to deliver skin smoothness as promised, although I used this in conjunction with its accompanying body lotion and body cream, so it's difficult to say exactly where this effect comes from.

--Value for money--
At £2.40, this is on a par price-wise with brands such as Nivea, Johnson and Johnson, and Palmolive. Offering a luxurious experience at a generous price, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

perfect partners

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Body Lotion, £3.99

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

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