Lush Toothy Tabs

RRP: £6.50 for 50g (around 100 tabs)

--What does the promo say?--
"Keep your mouth in mint condition. Cleansing kaolin and a triple whammy of minty goodness ensure this solid toothpaste will freshen up your mouth and make your teeth sparkle." 

--Packaging--
These used to come in a cardboard box. Sadly now, though, they come in a plastic bottle. At least this bottle is recyclable - so you can either throw it into the recycling bin at home (unlike a normal toothpaste tube) or take it into a Lush store for recycling (recycle 5 in one shot and you get a free product). It was really this environmental factor that led me to switch from traditional toothpaste. The monochrome label is unisex and minimalist and so should appeal to all. The travel advantage is also obvious: the bottle is much smaller than any toothpaste tube and the tabs clearly don't count towards your liquid allowance when flying.

--Usage--
"For intensely icy airwaves," the website instructs, "simply nibble one between your teeth and start brushing." This really is as simple as it sounds (although I went in with some trepidation). 

--Appearance--
This depends on the flavour you choose. Limelight is green with yellow streaked through, Boom! is black, and the two I went for - Dirty and Miles Of Smiles - are white. Not feeling quite brave enough to try the former, the latter two are more like traditional toothpastes in appearance, dissolving quickly in the mouth to create a white foam.

--Scent and taste--
Miles of Smiles is a really very minty concoction whose aftertaste lasts hours. As a result, I tend to use this in the morning, switching to Dirty in the evening, which is mint and neroli flavoured, and slightly milder as a result. It's an unusual combination, but taste-wise really works for me (although I've read reviews by others who disliked it - so it's definitely personal and you should definitely have a sniff in the shop before buying). 

--Texture and consistency--
These tabs are based on kaolin (clay) and bicarbonate of soda, leading to a chalky texture. This is fine and doesn't take long to get used to: the tabs are small, so break down quickly upon chewing and with the addition of water, the chalkiness giving way to a smooth, fine foam. However, I have found that the binding elements of kaolin and bicarb do tend to gel with any excess saliva in the mouth overnight, leading to yucky strings of white gel populating in my mouth that I then have to scrape out. Yep. Lovely. BUT other reviews don't suggest that this happens to other people. So I'd recommend trying it first before discounting the possibility.

--Effects on the teeth--
Teeth feel clean after use and the flavourings make breath feel fresh for hours. 

--Value for money--
At £6.50 a pop this isn't cheap - especially if it turns out not to be for you. As for myself, I really wanted to like this product as I so loved the concept. However, the mouth residue is not something I can live with long-term, which is such a shame. Once my 2 bottles are finished, I'll be looking for other toothpaste alternatives.

perfect partner
Mouthwash Tabs, £6.50*

*available in 3 flavours: clove & mint, mint, and lemon

Liz Earle Sweet Orange and Mint Cleanse and Polish

RRP: £22.75 (includes 2 muslin cloths and 150ml of cream cleanser)

--What does the promo say?--
"Reveal smoother, clearer and brighter-looking skin while uplifting the senses with this energising twist on our cleansing icon, beautifully presented in a keepsake canister. Zesty notes of sweet orange oil entwine with the refreshing scent of just-crushed peppermint to create a blend that’s a fresh, reviving treat morning and evening."

--Packaging--
An altogether brighter version of the usual mellow teal packaging of the classic Cleanse and Polish pump dispenser - the white background illuminates while the beautiful flower illustrations add explosions of colour that evoke the orange and mint added.

--Application--
Dispense one pump's worth of cream cleanser and rub over your face. Then soak one of the provided muslin cloths in warm water and use this to rinse the cream from your skin.

--Appearance--
The white cream has a slightly grainy appearance. No visible residue is left on the skin, however.

--Scent--
The orange and mint blend subtly so that one doesn't overpower the other. However, the orange could perhaps be intensified so as to amplify that festive feeling (this limited edition is being rereleased for the Christmas period, as it was in 2015).

--Texture and consistency--
The cream cleanser emulsifies beautifully on contact with heat and/or water to glide across skin smoothly. This rinses off easily thanks to the muslin cloth.

--Effects on the skin--
The mint is refreshing, as promised, and skin is left feeling soft and calmed on both a short- and long-term basis.

--Value for money--
The two muslin cloths alone would normally cost £4.50, leaving the cost of the cleanser itself at £18. This is £2 more than Liz Earle's normal Cleanse and Polish, but makes for a beautiful gift for anyone who hasn't tried the product before, or who would enjoy this variant on the classic. This cost is also in line with similarly high-end botanical brands such as Aveda, Kiehl's, Balance Me, and Jurlique. Liz Earle's PR sent me this for free, but I'm sold on it and would definitely recommend gifting this to any beauty lover or novice for anniversaries, birthdays or Christmas while stocks last. 

perfect partners
Orange Flower Hand Repair, from £6
Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash, from £14.50
Orange Flower Hand Wash, from £15

This Works In Transit No Traces

RRP: £17 for 60 cleansing pads

--What does the promo say?--
"Improving skin moisture whilst removing all traces of dirt or make-up, the this works In Transit No Traces pads can be used morning and evening and work to effectively cleanse the skin whilst maintaining its pH balance. Infused with gorgeous rosewater and water mint, these pads are convenient and fast acting and will definitely be a welcome addition to your routine.

• Removes impurities and dirt
• Effective on make-up
• Suitable for use day and night
• Improves skin's moisture"

--Packaging--

The red and black colour scheme of the box is vibrant and unusual, and the black luggage-style stamps give an authentic yet quirky feel. Equally, the red continues to stand out on the white screw-top plastic container, where minimal information keeps the pot uncluttered and sophisticated.

--Application--

Sweep a pad over your face to remove makeup, using both sides of the pad if necessary. The same can be done to simply cleanse - and as they're pre-soaked with fluid, they're perfect for on the go.

--Appearance--

The pads are white and textured, and slightly translucent thanks to the fluid in which they're soaked. This leaves no visible residue on the skin, however.

--Scent--

The rosewater is the dominant scent, leaving a clean, cotton-like, fresh smell. The mint, however, is undetectable.

--Texture and consistency--

As mentioned, the pads are textured, which adds extra exfoliation to the process of cleansing. However, this is not overly abrasive. and the fluid in which the pads are soaked has a soothing, cooling effect.

--Effects on the skin--

An effective all-in-one cleanser, toner and moisturiser, although does not thoroughly remove the most heavy-duty makeup.

--Value for money--

Despite the brand prestige and the quality ingredients, £17 amounts to 28p a pad. Some people will decide this is worth it due to the eco-friendly and other ethical credentials of the brand, while others will think it's a shade too expensive. Nonetheless, it makes for an affordable luxury from a celebrity-endorsed brand.

perfect partners

First Aid, £16 for 8ml

Camera Close-Up, from £30

Muscle Therapy, £18 for 50ml

Skin Defence, £29 for 40ml

The Breath Co Fresh Breath Dry Mouth Mandarin Mint Lozenges

RRP: £8.99 for 72 lozenges

--What does the promo say?--
"The Breath Co. Mouth Wetting Lozenges are effective in eliminating bad breath including strong food odours such as garlic and onion, Morning Breath, and smoker's breath.Our mandarin mint lozenge is inteded to help relieve dry mouth symptoms when used as directed.Grab a few individually wrapped Lozenges to take on the go. Pop one after a meal or whenever your mouth tastes umpleasant or feels dry."

--Packaging--
The green and orange colour scheme is vibrant and different to other mints on the market. However, the box itself is quite large and wrapped in plastic. Equally, all of the lozenges are individually wrapped, which is great for convenience, but not for the environment. I like the recyclable nature of the box, but it could be made smaller (in the style of Ricola lozenges) and not packaged individually.

--Usage--
As mentioned in the promotional materials, suck or chew on one for instantly fresher breath. Do not take more than 7 per day, as they have laxative effects.

--Appearance--
A small, square, white mint which appears to leave no residue on the fingers or in the mouth. These are individually wrapped in clear plastic sachets.

--Scent--
The mint smell is evident before you even open the box. It is very strong, and as such may not be for everyone.

--Taste-- 
Again, mint dominates, but mandarin is detectable, again, giving the product a distinctive feature compared to other breath mints.

--Texture and consistency--
Soft enough to chew, but hard enough to suck, as per your preference. Not grainy or sticky.

--Longevity--
You'd be hard pushed to consume (or exceed) 7 of these a day as the flavour is strong and long-lasting without being overpowering. 

--Value for money--
The strength of flavour leads to good value in this sense: if you were to consume 3 of these a day, a box would still last you nearly a month if you did this 7 days a week. As I'd probably normally consume 1 or 2, five days a week, a box would probably last me between 2 and 3 months. However, at 12p per lozenge, there are still many cheaper alternatives on the market, even if these lack the scientific additions of zinc (for bad breath busting) and paracress (for mouth moistening purposes). It really depends what your priorities are, and whether or not these could also be met by the range's mouthwash, chewing gum and toothpaste. Nevertheless, this still makes for a convenient and effective option at a price that is not unachievable - particularly for those with severe halitosis.

perfect partners
Chewing Gum, £4 for 10 pieces
Oral Rinse, £13.99 for 500ml
Toothpaste, £8.99 for 75ml

Montagne Jeunesse Deodorising Foot Scrub

RRP: £1.09 for 25ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Take a seat and put your feet up. This natural Water Melon & Mint Foot Scrub removes dry and rough areas. The new anti-bacterial formula combats odour so your feet will be left feeling smooth and fresh all over."

--Packaging--
 The foot-shaped sachet is fun and different to other foot scrubs, although the slit in the side to peel it open is not all that helpful (have scissors at the ready). The Montagne Jeunesse packaging is always fun, young and bright, and this is no exception. However, Montagne Jeunesse appears to be phasing out the sachets in favour of larger bottles, which could be less convenient for travel but more practical overall.

--Application--
Massage into wet or dry feet until all rough skin is removed, using hands, a sponge or a loofah. Rinse off when done. Easy and quick.

--Appearance--
A light-brown coloured liquidy paste with dots of darker brown (the walnut shell granules). Leaves no visible residue on the skin after use.

--Scent--
While slightly sweet, the watermelon scent is not too overwhelmingly. Equally, the mint scent is not that detectable, although feet still appear to be deodorised successfully, so I'm guessing the mint is working its magic regardless.

--Texture and consistency--
Rather wet, unfortunately. The only problem with this product, as it does increase wastage.

--Effects on the skin--
As mentioned, this product deodorises effectively. It also follows through on its promise with regards to the disappearance of dry and rough skin, helping to send it packing.

--Value for money--
The £1.09 sachet is an absolute steal, especially given the product quality and the fact that it will scrub both your feet about four times. However, this makes me think that this will continue with the 80ml Foot Buffer bottle, which is set to replace this (and at its size is still fine for hand baggage travel - yay!), in terms of providing value that's as good or better. Definitely would carry on repurchasing the sachets until they're no longer available, and wouldn't hesitate to upgrade to the Foot Buffer after that. Nice work from Montagne Jeunesse as always.

perfect partners
Blueberry and Mint Foot Cooler, £4.99
Peppermint and Pumice Foot Buffer, £4.99
Cucumber and Mint Foot Lotion, £4.99
Cherry and Mint Tired Leg Gel, £4.99 

Diptyque is in full bloom at Chelsea Flower Show

You already heard yesterday about BrandAlley and The Pretty Dress Company's celebratory collaboration at the Chelsea Flower Show, and the fashion and beauty presence there continues to abound thanks to fragrance and candle company Diptyque's partnership with ethical jewellery maker Pippa Small. This week, guests visiting Pippa's retreat will also be treated to a sample of a Diptyque fragrance formulated especially for the occasion. Floral tuberose works with heady lavender and cleansing mint to create a unique scent to remember this year's show by. Stay tuned for further info...

Kiss My Face Organic Breakout Botanical Acne Gel

RRP: £9.44 for 1oz

--What does the promo say?--
"Diminish and control skin breakouts, redness, and inflammation with this therapeutic tea tree extract formula which controls the production of sebaceous oils, disinfects, and neutralizes bacteria. Cool, fresh, organic mint soothes and stimulates skin.

GOOD FOR YOU BECAUSE...
Tea Tree Oil: controls production of sebaceous oils, disinfects,
and neutralizes bacteria
Mint: soothes and stimulates skin
Lemon Balm: calming, soothing and balancing

INGREDIENTS:
Certified Organic Floral Water of Peppermint*, Lavender*, Rosemary*, Sage*, Steam Distilled Water, Infusion of Certified Organic Herbs of Red Clover*, Golden Seal*, Juniper Berries* & Lemon Balm*, Certified Organic Aloe Vera**, Witch Hazel, Peppermint Oil, Xanthan Gum, Tea Tree Oil, Chamomile Oil, Camphor Oil, Bergamot Oil.
*Certified by Quality Assurance International
**Oregon Tilth Certified Organic

This product contains no animal ingredients, artificial colors, or unnecessary chemicals and was not tested on animals."

--Packaging--
While the packaging is a pretty green colour and very much in keeping with what I would expect of both the brand and the product, I was a little concerned from the outset: Kiss My Face's biggest competitor in terms of natural, environmentally friendly brand is easily Lush, a company that makes a big thing out of its minimal packaging (i.e. they have none, and when they do use it, it's either reusable, like their tins, or recyclable, like their paper bags). Kiss My Face's packaging seemed to be made of unfriendly, unrecyclable packaging. However, after some sleuthing, a KMF representative told me that all of the packaging is in fact recyclable, and that KMF is doing all it can to reduce unnecessary stuff, such as the how-to leaflets, instead directing customers to the website instead. Good stuff.

--Application--
Flip open the lid, squeeze the tube VERY lightly and apply the gel to your face using your fingers. However, I'd say that the application time is lengthened by the gel taking so long to dry - a full five minutes is quite a long time compared to other similar gels on the market.

--Appearance--
The gel is a pale translucent green colour, but rubs in clear.

--Consistency/texture--
It's really runny, which is really irritating as it tends to spill out of the tube and through your fingers really quickly. It's not only this that leads to wastage - the fact that the gel is so runny also means that often more comes out than you need or would want at a time, which is a shame.

--Scent--
The peppermint smell comes through strongly - a nice change when as someone with acneic skin you spend a lot of time using tea tree products.

--Effect on the skin--
No different to my usual Clinique or Superdrug - however, this is a good thing, as I'd rather be using things on my skin that are as natural as possible, so if it's of as good a quality then I'm happy with that.

--Value for money--
Pretty good - one tube lasts ages and the gel itself is effective.

--Other comments--
While I love that this is organic and that it works just as well as my Clinique, I really can't stand how runny it is. I would really want them to reformulate this before I could buy it again and be happy with it.

perfect partner
Pore Shrink Organic Deep Pore Cleansing Mask, £7.34

Boots Deep Moisturising Foot Cream

RRP: £3.86 for 100ml pot

--What does the promo say?--
"A soothing, medicated and antiseptic foot cream with natural extracts of mint, lavender and marshmallow to nourish and soften hard dry skin. Suitable for all skin types. Lanolin free."

--Packaging--
A slightly-smaller-than-palm-size glass pot, which allows you to see the green lotion within. Simple green label detailing the key ingredients and with a clearly-placed Boots logo. White plastic screw-top lid. It's a bit big to take in your hand baggage on holiday, but it would be easy enough to decant out what you need. If you did want to take it on holiday, the lid closes securely and there are no problems with leakage.

--Application--
Slather onto dry feet and rub in thoroughly. Wear moisturising socks to make absorption more effective if desired. Unfortunately the cream does not absorb really quickly as compared to its Body Shop and Efasit competitors.

--Appearance--
A pale mint green colour that perfectly matches the label and evokes the key ingredients. Nicely done. On the feet there is no visible residue.

--Scent--
The lavender and mint combine really nicely to create a unique fusion scent, although both scents are discernible separately if you concentrate hard enough. It's a little disappointing that the sweetness of the marshmallow isn't really detectable, but I suspect it's more there for softness and smoothness than for the scent, which is fair enough.

--Texture--
A bit too runny for me really, although not to the point of unmanageability. I think it's because of its runniness that it doesn't absorb too well, which is a bit of a shame. I also found it slightly greasy to rub in.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
Even with the help of moisturising socks, I wouldn't say it's as effective as creams I've used in the past. It does moisturise feet a little bit, but there just isn't the wow factor and repeated applications are definitely needed more than with the other creams I've used.

--Longevity--
No/few noticeable long-term effects.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
While it does smooth out hard skin, the effects are so short-term that the repeated applications hardly seem worth it. The addition of marshmallow also puzzles me: why put it in there if it will have no effect? According to wikipedia (the fount of all knowledge, of course), mint and lavender have proven antiseptic and medicinal qualities, while marshmallow has none. So is it just to seduce customers with images of softness and bounciness? Who knows? However, as promised, this product contains no lanolin, making this product suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

--Value for money--
While you can't argue with the price, it's no good to have a product at a lower price if it doesn't stand up to its competitors. Sorry Boots.

Body Shop Peppermint Smoothing Pumice Foot Scrub

RRP: £5.00/100ml
(also available as part of the Feet Treat Petite, £10, which includes Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub 15 ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion 60 ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray 50 ml, Mini File A Foot and Foot Shaped Toe Dividers; and available also as part of the Feet Treat Complete, £16, which includes Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion 125ml, Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub 100ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray 100ml, File A Foot & Footsie Roller)

--Packaging--
A round blue pot with a teal footprint design gracing the lid, with the Body Shop logo and all the info in white, easy-to-read font. Young, funky-looking design. Tells you everything you need to know on the lid.

--What does the promo say?--
"Cleanse and polish your tootsies pretty with this gel-based potion that feels great after a long walk."

--Application--
Scoop the scrub out of the pot with your fingers and apply to your feet. Massage into your feet using your hands or a pumice stone for as long as you want and wash off.

--Appearance--
Grey, sludgy, slightly jelly-like, looks like wet sand. You can see the pumice granules straight away.

--Scent--
You can smell the peppermint straight away. It's strong, but not overpowering.

--Texture--
Rough. And scrubby. But not painful. As you might expect from a scrub. It's exfoliating, smoothing and soothing.

--Lather--
Some, but not too much.

--Is it easy to wash off?--
Yes.

--How does it make your skin feel afterwards?--
Lovely and smooth. I only began using it a week ago and it's already made a huuuuuge difference to my dry, cracked heels (with everyday usage). I've been following it up with the Peppermint Cooling Lotion, also made by Body Shop, for even greater smoothness...

--Value for money--
I got my pot as part of the Feet Treat Petite set, and while I was initially a little disappointed with the runtiness of the pot, I wasn't counting on how fast acting it is, and now I would undoubtedly buy a full size pot (keeping the smaller pot, so that I can decant some of the stuff into it for travel!).

perfect partners (all from Body Shop):
foot file, £4.50
terracotta pumice, £3
peppermint cooling foot lotion, £8 for 250ml
peppermint cooling foot spray, £5 for 100ml
peppermint cooling foot soak, £7 for 200ml
peppermint cooling leg gel, £5 for 125ml
peppermint cooling foot rescue treatment, £9 for 100ml