Competition: Deep Heat Muscle Rescue

Overdone it at the gym? Done something amazing like the Race For Life? Or just had a hard day at work? To help, you can win one of three Deep Heat Muscle Rescue kits, which include the neck/shoulder cream and the bath soak.

You know how much I like products that are both utilitarian and luxurious. These ones do both as well. The cream contains vanilla to relax the senses and rosemary to relax your muscles, and the convenient sponge applicator gives a gentle massage during application.

The bath soak, equally, combines aromatherapeutic orange and patchouli with healing rosemary to relax your aching body.

To celebrate Deep Heat Muscle Rescue, Mentholatum, the Deep Heat muscle experts, are offering three product sets. To enter, answer the following question and email your answer to soprano_seraph[AT]hotmail[DOT]com:

Which official rescue person wears a red uniform?

·         Policeman

·         Life Guard

·         Doctor

You have until 23:59, British Summer Time, on August 13th 2013 to enter. Good luck :) 

Deep Heat Neck and Shoulder Cream

  RRP: £5.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Deep Heat Muscle Rescue Neck and Shoulder Cream has a rosemary and vanilla fragrance. It eases everyday stresses and tensions. The applicator allows for specific areas to be targeted."

--Packaging--

The screw-top lid and built-in sponge applicator means this product is not going to get away with leaking all over your stuff when you travel. I initially felt dubious about the efficacy of the sponge applicator, but my fears were soon allayed - it allows even application even on the parts of the shoulder that are the most awkward to reach, and can also be removed if required. The combination of red, orange and purple imposed on the white tube means it should appeal to everyone and it seems to be clearly part of the Deep Heat range without the logo being overpowering.

--Application--

Squeeze the tube until some lotion appears on the sponge, then rub evenly over your back and shoulders until absorbed. No need to get in there with your fingers - the sponge applicator does the job all on its own, so this is totally mess-free.

--Appearance--

The lotion is smooth and white, and doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin or on bedclothes or bedsheets.

--Scent--

The rosemary is the most obvious scent, with the vanilla being barely detectable, but it's not overpowering and should appeal to males and females equally. A good, strong, natural smell.

--Texture and consistency--

As mentioned, this absorbs easily and is not runny or sticky. Even though it's intended to target muscle pain, it feels luxurious rather than medicinal thanks to its creaminess.

--Sensation--

The warming sensation promised is not immediately obvious, with it initially seeming more like a cooling sensation. However, things gradually heat up and the result is a lovely, warming, satisfying feeling akin to an electric blanket or hot water bottle. No burning or stinging sensations were experienced and it does a great deal to chase away muscle pain and stress. It's fabulous when you're feeling ill too. 

--Value for money--

I've never encountered a product like this and find this one to be extremely innovative and effective. Even though I was sent this one for free, I would gladly cough up the £5.99 for a replacement when it runs out. Super stuff.

perfect partner

Muscle Rescue Bath Soak, £5.49