Should teenage girls wear makeup?

I try to read a variety of media, and while the Times and Financial Times are mainstays, I also read the Guardian regularly, and from time to time reactivate a free trial of the Telegraph. In the latter, I recently read Annabel Jones' 'Should teenage girls wear makeup? I think it's fine - and here's why' - and I tend to agree with her.

I started playing with makeup in the pre-teen years: when I was 11 or 12.

Puberty is starting younger and younger - I started my periods a month after my twelfth birthday and developed acne at the age of 10. This is also now happening to even younger girls, due to environmental factors such as diet. So if you do have acne, it's natural that your self-confidence would feel dented - and even though I do see the argument of letting the skin get some air (and even as an adult ensure I have at least two makeup-free days a week), I also think a bit of concealer does more good than harm (especially if, like I was, you are also bullied). This is one of the first points made by the Telegraph's beauty editor also.

I would probably just go for a lighter mineral concealer, rather than the cheap stick foundations and concealers that I used to slather on, which were quite thick and cakey. ELF does good affordable ones that will cover blemishes while allowing skin to breathe.

I also used to love messing around with nail varnishes with my cousin, and would argue that such experiences are good for bonding - though this is also an argument for cheap clothes and nail polishes, as well as plenty of nail varnish remover, as chances are it will go everywhere! I didn't have a particular favourite brand, but used to go for the classics that pervade the aisles at Boots and Superdrug - Maybelline, 17, and so on. I was mainly about the colours, rather than brands, and especially all about the glitter, for which Barry M is a good choice. It also teaches you about science - namely, not to use nail varnish remover to clean up accidentally spilled nail polish from the top of a plastic TV casing...

Experimenting with eyeshadows - especially pink glittery ones - was another favourite pursuit, and as well as being just plain fun, helps you to see what colours suit you so that you can develop a sophisticated style long-term. I wouldn't be so keen on pink glittery eyeshadows now, but would go for dark purples, blues, browns, metallics or even greens to highlight my grey eyes.

This argument is even more persuasive when it comes to foundation. While young skin doesn't specifically need it, there are plenty of lighter foundations available, as well as tinted moisturisers, and even BB creams, which didn't exist when I was an adolescent but are a great option for teen skin, not just for breathability but also their other functions (such as SPF). I wouldn't recommend cheaper options in this case - even now, I'd say investing in the base is everything so as to not damage your skin. Furthermore, more expensive brands tend to have a wider range of shades available, meaning you have a greater chance of a good-looking result. It's perhaps more important and higher-stakes than you might think to get this right at a young-ish age - I went for my first job interview when I was 15, and who wants to go with a massive tide mark along the jaw line because the shade isn't right? It's a good lesson for young people too: if you want to wear makeup, then look professional. While quite a few of the cheaper high street brands have upped their game since I was trying out foundations for the first time, most still have their 'palest' shade pitched either too dark or too orange - so I would recommend trading up. Try Lily Lolo for mineral foundations that are kind to acneic skin.

Even though I started wearing makeup at a young age, I'm forever grateful to my (otherwise strict!) parents for their laissez-faire attitudes regarding this. Annabel Jones mentions in her article about picking your battles and not restricting the amount or type of makeup your teen wears - and I tend to agree, as doing the opposite would only breed resentment. It's something your teen has to work out for themselves - and, as I have mentioned above, in their own time (and plenty of it).

As she also mentions, good skincare routines and products are vital too. Steer clear of the cheap and artificial as far as possible - brands like Lush, Zao, Couleur Caramel, and Lamazuna are environmentally friendly too. Conversely, don't be afraid to seek prescription products if really needed for teen skin conditions.

Annabel Jones' most important comment though, is that makeup is about enhancing - not disguising - who you really are. And that, for teenage girls who may be feeling more insecure by the day, is crucial.

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore & Shine In-Shower Mask

RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Introducing new Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore & Shine In-Shower Mask. Get a shine-free, even complexion in only 60 seconds thanks to this breakthrough mask that works with steam of your shower. Its clinically proven formula reduces shine, helping to remove any excess oil for an instant matte effect without drying skin. It also helps to refine pores, cleansing deep down to unclog pores for visibly refined looking skin. Its fresh tangerine & lime scent provides an invigorating, fresh-skin feeling."

--Packaging--
The green and white colour scheme is both vibrant and unisex, with the Neutrogena label displayed prominently, while the coloured band at the top followed by the white band at the bottom of the tube clearly marks it as part of the brand also (all Neutrogena masks, scrubs etc have this design, with just the colour changing for different needs or scents, such as pink for grapefruit). The plastic flip-top lid is light while remaining sturdy and practical.

--Application--
Rub all over your face while in the shower, leaving it to sit for a minute or two while you shave or wash your body (I'm not going to list alternative in-shower activities...you're on your own there!). Rinse off under the shower or at the sink when you emerge. Use 1-2 times a week.

--Appearance--
The product itself is white, with no visible traces left after use.

--Scent--
Lively and zesty, although I think this mostly comes from scents added later that may be artificial, as only lemon peel is explicitly listed.

--Texture and consistency--
Creamy and luxurious. While slightly lumpy or grainy in appearance, it's not like an exfoliator, serving no scrubbing function, as you can't feel these lumps or grains on your skin during usage of the product.

--Effects on the skin--
The effect in just 1-2 minutes is certainly impressive - perfect for modern, busy lifestyles. Skin is indeed mattified and visibly less oily, with pore size appearing reduced and tightened temporarily. Skin also feels really refreshed thanks to the citrus element, and moisturised too, due to the mask's creamy texture.

--Value for money--
At just under £4 this definitely isn't breaking the bank and the time saved is equally valuable. If waiting 20 minutes for a mask to dry doesn't appeal, then this is definitely for you. I was sent mine for free by Neutrogena's PR (thanks guys!) but would pay up in future. I'd also be interested to try the rest of the range in future, and/or to see face wipes added to the range, as they're good value, effective products that offer a pick-me-up in the morning too.

perfect partners
Pore & Shine Daily Wash, £4.99
Pore & Shine Daily Scrub, £4.99

Clean & Clear Advantage Oil Control Cream Wash

RRP: £4.99 for 150ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Clean & Clear® Advantage® Oil Control Cream Wash is clinically proven to help clear excess oil for fewer spots and leave skin looking shine-free for longer. This dual-action formula combines oil-absorbing PowderParticles™ and our patented Advantage® spot-fighting technology, to instantly remove up to 85% of excess oil* whilst helping to clear spots and blemishes. Oil-free. Won't clog pores. Won't overdry skin."

--Packaging--
The silver and blue colour scheme is nicely unisex, and the plastic tube is practical too, with a flip-top lid that's sturdy, but opens easily when you need it to.

--Application--
Rub between damp palms and massage onto the face, before wiping off with a wettened flannel.

--Appearance--
The cream wash is white, with white particles visible. No visible residue is left on the face after washing.

--Texture and consistency--
Thick and slightly clay-like, but easy to wash off once you have finished.

--Scent--
The menthol comes through strongly, which is most refreshing, but is not overwhelming.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin definitely seemed calmed and clearer, with dry patches sloughed away thanks to the PowderParticles. Overall, skin was more balanced, with oily patches also reduced within a week's use.

--Value for money--
Results are definitely visible in the short term, and the overall usage experience was undoubtedly pleasant and effective - especially so for a product with such an affordable price tag. I was sent mine for free by Clean & Clear's PR, but would definitely pay up.

perfect partner
Advantage Spot Treatment Gel, £4.35

Clean and Clear Hint of Tint Cover and Correct Cream

RRP: £6.99
# of shades available: 2

--What does the promo say?--
"Instantly conceals and helps clear spots for clear, beautiful skin. NEW CLEAN & CLEAR®Hint of Tint™ gives you instantly clearer, beautiful skin in one quick & easy step!"

--Packaging--
A bit functional and dated in its design, but as this suggests, it works well nonetheless.

--Appearance--
The limited number of shades available means that this definitely won't suit everyone. The 'light' shade (which I was sent for free by Clean & Clear's PR) is acceptable on me, but I would still maybe prefer to only wear it in summer. Furthermore, the result is a bit sheer for me, but that's a matter of personal preference rather than being an inherent fault in the product.

--Scent--
Nothing of note.

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and blends well.

--Coverage--
Doesn't really deliver on this score; you will likely need to top up with concealer and/or powder.

--Value for money--
As I prefer a more matte, heavier-coverage finish, I probably wouldn't purchase this. However, others with different needs could give it a go.

The oil cleansing method

I promised a post on the oil cleansing method following my review of Kick Start Coconut Oil. And it's something that often seems more than a little surprising.

Oil, you say? I've heard of putting oil on my body, or even on my hair, but isn't putting oil on my face kind of gross?
And I already have oily skin as it is - won't this make it worse?
Cleansing with oil sounds messy and complicated!
Even if I do decide to do it, what type of oil should I use? I've heard that essential oils should be diluted and that you need to be careful with putting them on your face...

Time to debunk the myths, explain the method, choose your oil, and enjoy the effects. 

It sounds counterproductive, but putting oil onto already oily skin will actually do some good. The skin overproduces oil when the body thinks (rightly or wrongly) that it is undernourished. By letting it know that actually, it has enough (thanks to the natural oils you are putting on your face!) the skin scales its production of your body's natural oils right back to ultimately create a more balanced complexion. Naturally, the oil cleansing method also helps to hydrate dry, mature and combination skin types too.

So what is the method itself? Sometimes when you read about it online, it can sound overly complicated, but in the end you only need two steps:

1. Put oil onto your face. The easiest way of doing this is by putting the oil into a pump-action bottle (just clean the tube regularly with hot water to stop it from getting clogged) and pushing the pump down once to get enough oil out. If you are using a pot or bottle, you can always scoop with a spatula or pour (carefully!) into your hands before massaging the oil onto your face. (Got more oil than you need? Doesn't matter! Massage into your hands, neck, decolleté and arms too - you should moisturise everywhere anyway for maximum anti-ageing benefits.) The massaging action itself has benefits in terms of, say, your circulation - but what you really want to happen is for the oil to break down dirt, grime and makeup.

2. Wipe the oil off your face using a tissue or cotton pad. I normally go round twice, wiping with both sides of the cotton pad. Don't worry about getting off every last trace - part of the advantage of cleansing with oil is that the oil also serves as a moisturiser once you've wiped off any dirt that's accumulated during the day.

If I've been wearing makeup, I usually do this twice - once to get rid of the makeup and once to cleanse my face properly.

So what type of oil should you use for all of this? It's true that essential oils are highly concentrated and you need to be careful with them - so don't do anything silly like putting neat tea tree oil all over your face. However, you can also mix oils - so do feel free to put a few drops of any essential oil that helps you (e.g. lavender for sleep, or eucalyptus for healing) into your base oil. But what should this base oil be? Some of the most commonly-used are listed below:

• Olive oil
• Coconut oil
• Sunflower oil
• Sesame oil
• Jojoba oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Argan oil
• Rosehip oil

Of course the oil can also be used as a hair mask and body moisturiser, so no matter what oil you use, it's a great multi-purpose product.

Obviously some of these oils will cost more than others, some will be more easily available than others, and some will work better for you than others (so do tinker with the type and balance of oils, as well as the frequency of use, before abandoning the idea completely). So it's a trial and error process - and if all else fails, make sure you've chosen a food grade/organic oil so that you can at least cook with it.

If you don't fancy making your own bespoke mixture, lots of facial, hair and body oils already exist that you can buy straight off the shelf - ranging from the bargainous Miaroma (around £3 from Holland and Barrett) and Dove, to the luxurious MoroccanOil, Decléor and Jo Malone, via the midrange oils by Wella, Fushi, Weleda and the Body Shop.

Oil cleansing is a method I've only recently begun to try, and I'm seeing good results so far - so do give it a go if you're feeling at a loss! The starting point could be right there in your kitchen.

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!

17 Skin Wow Concealer

RRP: £4.99
# of shades available: 2

--What does the promo say?--
"SEVENTEEN Skin Wow Concealer does it all! Apply under the eyes to cover and reduce the appearance of dark circles and brighten the skin under your eyes. Leave your skin looking more healthy, more radiant and more luminous!Why not try it for strobing too? Skin Wow Concealer highlights your cheekbones, brow bones and cupid's bow! Give skin a WOW!"

--Packaging--
The gold pen-style packaging is elegant and reminiscent of Yves Saint Laurent's classic Touche Eclat - right down to the brushstroke tip and the push-down button that releases more product. So while pretty, it's not original - but does at least work well.

--Application--
After applying primer and foundation, dot over any blemishes that are still visible before blending in (firstly with the brush tip, and then with your finger if needed). As mentioned in the promotional materials, you can also use it to lessen the effect of under-eye circles (although as I am rubbish at strobing and contouring/don't see the point, I haven't tried it for this purpose!).

--Appearance--
Luckily, I was sent the lightest shade, as requested of 17's PR. This blended in perfectly, covered blemishes reasonably well, and matched my skin tone; however, with only 2 shades available, I doubt this would be the case for everyone, so I'd definitely recommend testing in-store first.

--Scent--
Nothing discernible really - so no need to worry if you're sensitive to overly-perfumed products.

--Texture and consistency--
As mentioned, this is smooth and blends in well. 

--Longevity--
Despite good initial results at the beginning of the day, I'm not convinced that this is robust enough to last all day once applied. At least the pen design means it's easy to slip this into your handbag for on-the-go touchups.

--Value for money--
At £4.99 this is priced reasonably (comparing favourably to other market leaders such as L'Oreal, Bourjois and Rimmel) and value increases thanks to Boots' regular special offers. It's elegant, convenient, smooth to apply, and matches my skin tone well (but with only 2 shades available this won't be true for all), so there's not a lot to dislike. It just needs to last a little longer so that it can stand up to my long working days - although possibly using it with partner products (listed below) might remedy this.

perfect partners
Skin Wow Primer, £5.99
Instant Glow Skin Wow Tan, £5.99

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleansing Wipes

RRP: £3.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Introducing NEW Neutrogena Visibly Clear® Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleansing Wipes, specially formulated to help prevent blemishes.

Each ultra-soft wipe clears dirt, excess oil and make-up to help to prevent breakouts without overdrying skin. The invigorating pink grapefruit fragrance uplifts the senses and gives skin a burst of freshness."

--Packaging--

The bright pink colour is uplifting and unusual, and the resealable flap closes securely for travel, even when the pack has been open for a while.

--Application--

Sweep over face to remove makeup, and then again to cleanse. One wipe is sufficient for both of these actions.

--Appearance--

The white wipe unfolds when you have extracted it from the packet, and is soaked in a transparent liquid solution that helps to dissolve makeup and clean off any excess dirt and oil. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--

A zesty pink grapefruit that acts as a real pick-me-up.

--Texture and consistency--

The wipes are sufficiently robust to remove both makeup and excess grime, and even when used thoroughly on both sides, they do not tear or stretch. Result.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin is not only thoroughly cleaned but looks calm and feels nicely refreshed as well as moisturised - so have no fear of these being too abrasive or stripping the skin of natural oils (which we all need to a certain degree!). Over time, an improvement in overall skin condition (i.e. reduction in spots) can also be noticed.

--Value for money--

At £3.99 these hardly break the bank, and some retailers regularly have special offers on Neutrogena too (such as buy one, get one free) to increase value further. Not only are they inexpensive, but they are also convenient, work well, and add that extra zing to your skincare routine. Brilliant.

perfect partners (click the links for reviews!)

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub, £4.69

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash, £4.69

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Moisturiser, £4.99

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Cream Wash, £4.89

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Correct and Perfect Complexion Scrub

RRP: £5.99/150ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Neutrogena Visibly Clear® Correct & Perfect Complexion Scrub contains a combination of salicylic acid and gentle exfoliating microbeads to help:

 Clear skin without over-drying it.

 Remove dead skin cells and hidden impurities that can lead to new breakouts

 Even skin complexion by stimulating the skin’s natural renewal process."

--Packaging--

The bright orange and purple colour scheme is both unusual and unisex, while the robust flip-top lid is both easy to use and secure.

--Application--

Rub onto damp skin before wiping off with a face cloth.

--Appearance--

A white, grainy paste that washes off the skin easily, leaving no visible residue.

--Scent--

Nothing in particular stands out - just a clean, perhaps slightly medicinal smell.

--Texture and consistency--

Satisfyingly scrubby - you feel like the microbeads are working well to even out skin, while not feeling as though you've been attacked with sandpaper. In short, it's effective, not abrasive. 

--Effects on the skin--

Dry patches and spots are both reduced - great for those of us with combination skin.

--Value for money--

At £5.99 this will hardly break the bank, particularly if you also manage to catch the product on special offer, so you've nothing to lose by giving it a try. My only disappointment would perhaps be that given the now well-known environmental impact of microbeads, I would obviously prefer to now use products that contain natural exfoliants instead - something I should have considered more carefully when reading the press release before requesting my sample. Nonetheless, there's no denying the product's efficacy, which comes at an affordable price.

perfect partners

Spot Clearing Facial Wash, £4.99
Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Lotion, £3.25
Rapid Clear Treatment, £3.69
Blackhead Eliminating SOS Cleanser, £4.89
CC Cream, £6.99
Spot Stress Control Daily Scrub, £3.69
Oil-Free Moisturiser, £4.19
Gentle Exfoliating Wash, £3.79
Blackhead Scrub, £3.69
Spot Stress Control Daily Exfoliating Wash, £4.49
2 in 1 Wash and Mask, £3.69

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Correct and Perfect CC Cream

RRP: £6.99
# of shades available: 2

--What does the promo say?--
"Neutrogena Visibly Clear® has developed a CC Cream that instantly covers spots and other imperfections, while helping to correct them – in one easy step. Immediately, your complexion looks more even. Day after day, your skin is clinically proven to become clearer and healthier-looking, even without make-up!"

--Packaging--
The orange and purple banding is distinctive, cheerful and unisex, meaning that it not only stands out on the shelf but also clearly marks this product out as part of Neutrogena's Correct and Perfect range (which also includes a scrub). The flip-top lid is hardy and practical, while the image on the front of the tube, showing a swipe of cream, clearly shows both what the product is and the type of shade you can expect. Equally, the brand logo is clearly visible while being discreet.

--Application--
Apply a thin layer to the skin first, and then wait for this to dry before building up coverage. Adding too thick a layer at the start will cause the product to cake unevenly.

--Appearance--
The 'light' shade of the cream, kindly sent to me by Neutrogena's PR, blends in perfectly with my skin tone, which is always a relief given the fact that there are only two shades available of this product. However, the coverage afforded by the product is rather light, too, and thus not what I would wish.

--Scent--
Nothing discernible.

--Texture and consistency--
While initially smooth, creamy and luxurious without clogging, and blends well, over time this dries in uneven patches, meaning that you need to keep an eye on it.

--Longevity--
Unfortunately again in this respect the product tends to cake and show up the driest areas of your skin (for those of us with combination skin), meaning that reapplications are necessary.

--Effects on the skin--
A small improvement in blemish quantity is definitely notable, which is a positive point for this product and fulfils what they promise.

--Value for money--
At £6.99 this is hardly going to break the bank, and it has moisturising as well as blemish-busting qualities. However, I'm not liking the caking effect much, which suggests that going back to the drawing board in terms of texture would be advisable in the longer term.

perfect partners
Spot Clearing Facial Wash, £4.99
Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Lotion, £3.25
Rapid Clear Treatment, £3.69
Blackhead Eliminating SOS Cleanser, £4.89
Complexion Scrub, £5.99
Spot Stress Control Daily Scrub, £3.69
Oil-Free Moisturiser, £4.19
Gentle Exfoliating Wash, £3.79
Blackhead Scrub, £3.69
Spot Stress Control Daily Exfoliating Wash, £4.49
2 in 1 Wash and Mask, £3.69

GIVEAWAY: Neutrogena CC Cream

Neutrogena have very kindly sent me one of their brand new Visibly Clear Correct and Perfect CC Creams (in Medium) to give away to one of you lovely people. Yes, you!

I also have one to test for myself, which I'm looking forward to doing, as it promises to cover spots and breakout marks while helping to correct them too. It contains salicylic acid, so it's bound to do something to help.

To enter, email bianca[DOT]dee[AT]gmail[DOT]com with your name and address. And that's all! The competition will close one week from today, on March 30th, 2016, at 18.30 UK time. So get emailing and good luck :)

Spa Technologies Marine Serum

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"A favorite of ours. This light Gel Serum blends Aromatherapy with a complex of Marine Algae active ingredients. Marine Serum nourishes and remineralises ageing and environmentally damaged skin. Continuous use strengthens the connective tissue matrix for firmer, healthier skin. Essential Oils provide Antioxidant protection and help to control blemishes."

--Packaging--
The metallic bands against the clear glass bottle are new and different and this concept across all products in the range clearly helps to unite the brand and create a clear identity. The pump action dispenser clearly controls the amount of product used, which helps to minimise wastage.

--Application--
Use underneath - or even in place of - moisturiser after cleansing and toning.

--Appearance--
A translucent white serum which leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Slightly salty, which I suppose comes from the seaweed. Subtle, though, so shouldn't overwhelm any other products that you want to stand out for their scent.

--Texture and consistency--
Really light and generally absorbs quickly, although perhaps not as completely as a moisturiser (leaving a slightly taut feeling when dry).

--Effects on the skin--
As with other products in the range, this increases radiance and calms problem skin.

--Value for money--
At £35 this is no small outlay, but it's nonetheless an affordable luxury that works well. Another great result for Spa Technologies.

perfect partners
Oxygenated Correcting Pigmentation Skin Brightening Booster, £59
Essential Kit, £59
Spot Cure Kit, £79
Restore Kit, £80
Repair Kit, £101

Neutrogena Visibly Clear meets Danielle Romeril meets visibly clearer skin

I've got to be honest: I've had mixed experiences with Neutrogena, and as a person who's suffered from acne for nearly 20 years now (err...woo?), it's difficult to find products that can genuinely boost radiance and improve skin condition. However, from 2010 I've had the chance to test several products from Neutrogena's Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit range, whose zesty zing not only helps to wake you up in the mornings, but also kickstarts skin into clearing up. The original face wash has now been given a design-based pick-me-up by up-and-coming Irish designer Danielle Romeril, who coincidentally also in 2010 graduated from the MA Womenswear course at the Royal College of Art. In 2012 she set up her own label and this year, as well as presenting new designs at London Fashion Week and winning the NEWGEN award, has revamped one of Neutrogena's most successful face washes with a retro 80s design that's perfectly in keeping with catwalk trends. Specifically, it's designed by Memphis, an Italian architectural movement known for its avant-garde style and in-your-face colours.

Luckily for all fans of this product, it remains exactly the same on the inside - just in a jazzy collectible bottle - so for all those needing a top-up, now's a pretty good time to splash the cash (yep, all £4.94 of it). Happily, I'm just as pleased with the results as when I initially tested it in 2010 - and maybe even more so (and not just because of our Dani's pretty bottle).

perfect partners
Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Moisturiser (50ml) – RRP: £4.99 
Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub (150ml) – RRP: £4.95
Pink Grapefruit Cream Wash (150ml) – RRP: £4.99

Facetheory Sensitive Toning Mist

RRP: £7.50

--What does the promo say?--
"A toner that’s tailored for sensitive skin. Specially formulated for fussy skin, Sensitive Toner T2 gives you complete treatment and protection for your skin – without the irritation and redness. And while we’ve created a light formulation, we haven’t compromised on care. With aloe vera and grapefruit oil, it’s an antiseptic, decongestant and impressive anti-ager all in one."

--Packaging--
My sample took the form of a small pot with a screw-top lid, but the green and white spray bottle is appealing for targeted use with no wastage, as well as for the colour scheme's connotations of antiseptic healing. It's also a nicely unisex concept.

--Application--
Spray onto a cotton pad and wipe over cleansed skin. Easy as.

--Appearance--
A clear, watery liquid.

--Scent--
Citric without being bitter. A natural scent overall that combines the orange and grapefruit well.

--Texture and consistency--
A watery liquid with no visible particles or viscosity.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes any excess makeup that your cleanser didn't pick up, and calms and smooths skin too.

--Value for money--
Costs less than many other toners of the same quality (and sometimes even those of lesser quality!) and has positively calming effects on the skin thanks to its natural ingredients. Would purchase the full size product.

perfect partners
Clarifying Cleanser (C2), £9.50
Supergel Moisturiser (M3), £12.50
Ultraglide Makeup Primer (P1), £1.75
100% Organic Cotton Muslin Face Cloth, £1.50

Spa Technologies Revitalising Sea Cleanser

RRP: £25

--What does the promo say?--
"A deep pore cleanser formulated with a rich paste of organic Laminaria Algae imbued with aromatic essences that revitalize the skin by stimulating micro-circulation to restore a healthy glow. Ideal for oily/congested skin types."

--Packaging--
This appears to come in a pump-action bottle, while my sample came in a tiny pot with a screw-top lid. Based on the other samples I was sent that did come in full-size pump-action bottles, it likely dispenses efficiently and the bottles from this company seem quite robust. The bottle is also not too crowded/busy in terms of writing or images, making for a sophisticated overall appearance.

--Application--
Massage a small amount into damp skin before rinsing off. Easy really.

--Appearance--
The khaki colour is not terribly appealing (even if it clearly connotes the sea), but it leaves no residue on the skin.

--Scent--
The mint comes through most strongly, which is both pleasant and unusual, as well as supporting the general notion of the refreshing cleanse.

--Texture and consistency--
Very smooth, does not lather, and washes off well.

--Effects on the skin--
Seems to visibly calm the skin in the short term, but unfortunately my sample was a bit small to be able to test any effects on my acne long-term. No signs of any irritation.

--Value for money--
Based on the immediate results of my week's sample, I would definitely be interested in investing in the full-size bottle to give it a chance to work more completely. The products I have sent have a pared-down, high-quality set of ingredients that so far seem to be doing the skin good, and I would thus recommend this cleanser to those with acneic skin.

perfect partners
Marine Serum, £35
Vitamin C Mist, from £15
Spot Cure, £14.95

Boots Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Charcoal Facial Wash

 RRP: £4.25

--What does the promo say?--
"This Daily Detox Facial Wash contains antibacterial Tea Tree Oil and skin-calming Witch Hazel in conjunction with activated Charcoal to keep your skin clear and healthy by gently cleansing and attracting dirt like a magnet, drawing out deep down impurities & excess oil without over-drying. Leaves skin feeling deeply-cleansed, smoothed & radiant."

--Packaging--
The dark grey and pale green colour scheme is definitely new and different in a positive way; it's unisex, grown-up, and accurately reflects the product's ingredients, while also being distinguishable from other similar products. The flip-top lid also closes securely, meaning no worries about this exploding all over the inside of your suitcase when travelling.

--Application--
Wet your face and lather up a pea-sized amount of the product between wet hands. Rub all over the face, then rinse off, either under the shower or by using a face cloth.

--Appearance--
Dark grey - although happily this leaves no visible residue on the skin afterwards!

--Scent--
Slightly charcoaly, but not in an overwhelming way.

--Texture and consistency--
A slightly-sticky, slightly clay-like lotion lathers into a smooth grey foam. This washes off easily and doesn't leave any apparent traces.

--Effects on the skin--
When you use the product, there's immediately a lovely cooling effect - I'd guess from the tea tree and witch hazel, which are both known to have this property. Once rinsed off, skin also seems calmer and mattified straight away. Unfortunately, this doesn't last; while the product doesn't dry out the skin (which is appreciated!), it's not pleasant to feel like you've turned into an oil slick by the end of the day either. Consequently, and perhaps unsurprisingly, I didn't notice any massive improvement in my skin condition during my 4 weeks or so of using this product (in conjunction with the mask and scrub that are also in the range).

--Value for money--
This costs less than a fiver, so won't break the bank (and I was even sent mine for free by Boots' PR, so at least I didn't waste any cash on it), and so for that reason alone it's perhaps worth a try if you suffer with spots. However, my long-term acne problem is well-documented on this blog (17 years and counting, people!), so it's maybe unsurprising that what could be considered a relatively 'budget' product didn't make much of a dent. Sorry, Boots :(

perfect partners
Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Charcoal Facial Scrub, £4.59
Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Charcoal Face Mask, £3.59