Gelpop On-The-Go Hand Sanitiser

 

RRP: £14.99, with refills available for £2.99

--What does the promo say?--

"GELPOP is made out of sustainable silicone and has a convient clip-on device that easily attaches to your backpack, purse, buggy or more. Designed in London, UK. "Cool, Clean and Colorful describe our first 5 GELPOP models!” GELPOP is a socially conscious, clean company that aims to reduce the use of handwipes and other pollutants as it provides refills for the pocket holders. Our GELPOP GEL can be sold separately and kills 99.9% of germs. Our GELPOP GEL is fragrance free and has a light texture to dry quickly and to use as often as you need. It includes natural aloe vera preventing dry hands for you and your little ones."

--Packaging--

The designs look professional and are made of sustainable silicone. They are fun as well and offer something for everyone: I would choose the sleek black 'Gentleman' design for my husband, and my mother bought the cat for my son as well as the blue skiing one for herself. In short, they will go with any fashion taste and reflect any interest. The holder is substantial, even a little bit weighty, for the amount of gel it delivers. Nevertheless, it's quite compact, and could be clipped to a changing bag, golf bag...or ski kit! Its flip-top lid is practical as well.

--Application--

The gel bottle offers controlled dispensation. One drop on the hands is enough. Rub into skin like normal. Overall, an easy product to use.

--Appearance--

The gel is clear regardless of which outer design you choose. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--

The product is technically fragrance free, but this just means nothing artificial has been added - if anything, though, the fragrance is slightly powdery. This, however, does not cause any problems, as the scent is not strong and does not have a powerful smell of alcohol. 

--Texture and consistency--

The gel absorbs very quickly, so that hands immediately feel dry, creating an impressive result.

--Effects on the skin--

Hands are immediately clean, and do not feel dried out.

--Value for money--

This product seems expensive initially, but you are paying for the convenience - it is great for being out and about, and will not be easily lost. It's always readily to hand, so is perfect for those who are busy or always losing things thanks to it being clipped to a visible place. One drop of product covers the front and back of both hands, so one bottle will last a long time. You could also always refill the bottle with your own gel if you prefer after the initial purchase. Overall, a great value product that fills a gap in the market and makes an excellent stocking filler too.

Soin des lèvres au Lait de Jument de Camargue

RRP: 8€

--What does the promo say?—

"Moisturisation and protection guaranteed with our SOIN DES LEVRES! This lip balm is so rich that it will quickly repair and protect your lips from the effects of the cold and the sun. Good for cracked and sore lips, it is rich in moisturising ingredients such as shea butter and beeswax, which reinforce the qualities of Camargue mare’s milk. It nourishes, softens and protects your lips to the maximum. It does not contain a UV filter and is a natural product containing no chemical ingredients. (Any conservation agents used have been approved by Ecocert.) Suitable for daily use."

--Ingredients--

Shea butter, grapeseed oil, beeswax, aloe vera, jojoba oil, argan oil, lemon essential oil. 

--Packaging--

The SOIN DES LEVRES comes in a standard lipstick format. It has a paper wrap- around label with discreet logo of a horse’s head, the Camargue cross, the name of the product in black and green lettering and an attractive picture of mares in the Camargue.

--Application--

Apply like a lipstick, to top and bottom lip, and rub lips together to smooth the product in thoroughly.

--Appearance--

The SOIN DES LEVRES is a solid creamy-yellow stick.

--Scent—

The scent on this is very faint indeed, which I prefer to other lip balms I have used. You are not left with a strong taste on your lips. It feels completely natural.

--Texture and consistency--

The texture is quite solid and hard. I have a feeling that it will last longer than most sticks of this type because it doesn’t ‘melt away’ or wear down quickly as some do.

--Effects on the lips —

My lips feel instantly hydrated and the effect lasts a long time. A bonus: I also apply it around the contours of my lips to reduce the fine lines and it works a treat. Used before going to bed, it keeps my lips moisturised all through the night.

--Value for money--

Very good value for the quality of the product and the fact that it will last a long time.

perfect partners

CRÈME DE SOIN VISAGE (Face cream) 30€

LAIT DEMAQUILLANT (Make-up remover), from €9

CRÈME PEAU SECHE ET SENSIBLE (Cream for dry and sensitive skin), from €9

SAVON AU LAIT DE JUMENT NATUREL ET HYDRATANT (Natural moisturising mare’s milk soap), from €2

CRÈME POUR LES MAINS (Hand cream), 11.90€ 

CRÈME POUR LES PIEDS (Foot cream), 11.90€

COMPLEMENTS ALIMENTAIRES (dietary supplement capsules), 29.90€ 

https://laitdejumentdecamargue.fr/

Cindy Joseph BOOM CALM

RRP: $44 for 4oz

--What does the promo say?—
“BOOM CALM is designed for extreme weather. It gently soothes, nourishes and restores your skin’s natural radiance after you spend time in the sun, wind or harsh temperatures. You’re left with beautifully restored, hydrated skin that feels cool (and soft) to the touch. This lightweight liquid moisturizer delivers a powerful blend of Aloe Vera Gel, essential oils and all-natural ingredients to soothe your skin from head to toe, leaving you calm and cool. Boom Calm enriches your skin with vitamins, minerals, natural enzymes, fatty acids and other nutrients to replace any dryness with beautifully soft, glowing skin."

--Packaging--
As with all BOOM products, presentation is minimalist and clean-looking, with white being the prominent colour. BOOM CALM comes in the same type of bottle as BOOM CLEAN and BOOM SCRUB with a lid that flips up to dispense the product through a small nozzle. The logo is a cool green. The bottle is opaque so you cannot see how much is left whilst using it, although the decreasing weight of the bottle gives you a fairly good idea. Remember to unscrew the lid and remove the seal before trying to squeeze the product out through the nozzle.

--Application--
Simply massage this lightweight, liquid moisturizer into any area of your skin that needs soothing. It’s quick-drying and is easily absorbed into your skin without leaving any oil or residue behind. You  can use this full-body moisturizer from head to toe to replace any dryness with beautifully hydrated, glowing skin.

--Appearance--
BOOM CALM is an opaque liquid moisturiser and is a pale yellow colour.

--Scent—
BOOM CALM smells divine. The most pervading smell is that of geranium oil, which is extremely pleasant to have close to your nostrils and all over your face. Geranium oil is well known for reducing redness and calming skin. The scent is calming in itself and feels like an aromatherapy session. Very pleasant at bedtime!

--Texture and consistency--
The texture is thinner than Boom’s other moisturisers, probably because of the addition of so many essential oils. It resembles a serum in consistency and comes out of the tube very easily.

--Effects on the skin—
For the purposes of this review I used BOOM CALM on my face only as, testing it through the autumn, this was the part of my body most exposed to weather conditions at this time of year. (South of France: sun still quite hot but often very windy.) As with all BOOM products, a little goes a long way. My BOOM CALM arrived when I had just got back from a very windy autumn walk so I decided to use it straight away…and particularly across my sensitive lips. It worked well. There is an immediate sensation of coolness on application. At this time of year, I would recommend this product especially for winter sun and skiing holidays.

--Value for money--
I was given BOOM CALM free to trial for Bianca’s Blog (Thank you, BOOM!). At $44 for 4oz, this may seem an expensive product but as so little is used it lasts ages, especially if you are only using it on your face, as I did. I am finding that the combination of BOOM products on my skin has definitely improved the texture and quality of my skin tone so I would continue to purchase this for myself. With the gradual addition of its new products, BOOM is now providing for all your make-up and cleansing/moisturising needs. Am definitely a BOOM convert. Shipping from America needs to be added to the cost, so sometimes it is worth placing a bulk order with other BOOM products to increase value for money. International flat rate shipping charge costs $30 and it takes between 7 – 15 working days to arrive. Be sure to select this flat shipping rate option, or you may be faced with additional customs charges when your package arrives. My products took eight working days to get from America to my home in the South of France.

perfect partners
BOOMSTICK GLO, $28 
BOOMSTICK COLOR, $28
BOOMSTICK GLIMMER, $28
BOOM SILK moisturiser, from $29
BOOM COTTON moisturiser, from $36
BOOM NECTAR skin serum, from $58
BOOM CLEAN, from $34
BOOM SCRUB, $48
BOOM MASK, $42

by Sarah Cross

Cindy Joseph BOOM SCRUB

RRP: $45

--What does the promo say?—
“BOOM SCRUB is a simple and effective deep pore cleanser and light exfoliant that is safe to use every day. With a quick five-minute mask application, this scrub gently strips away the dull, lifeless skin from your face and reaches down deep to release all excess oil, dirt and make-up from your pores, leaving your skin simply radiant. Each ingredient in our new scrub has been carefully formulated to our highest standards, sustainably sourced and chemical free. While other scrubs use crushed sugar or bran that can led to micro-tears in your skin, BOOM SCRUB features small round oak kernels that gently roll across your face. With no harsh peeling abrasion or chemicals, BOOM SCRUB will give you vibrant, healthy skin every day.”

--Packaging--
As with all BOOM products, presentation is minimalist and clean-looking with white being the  prominent colour. BOOM SCRUB comes in the same type of bottle as BOOM CLEAN, with a lid that flips up to dispense the product through a small nozzle. The BOOM logo on the label has been altered to a sandy colour to differentiate it from BOOM CLEAN. The bottle is opaque so you cannot see how much is left whilst using it, although the decreasing weight of the bottle gives you a fairly good idea. I have never had reason to criticise BOOM packaging in the past but I’m afraid that I would have preferred the SCRUB in a tub (as for BOOM COTTON, BOOM SILK…) rather than the squeezy bottle, as I find the product extremely difficult to extract. The bottle won’t stand upside down on its top (so that gravity might help this thicker product descend) and you have to squeeze really hard to get the product out through the small nozzle. Cutting the bottle in half towards what I think might be the end of the product will definitely be necessary in order to avoid severe wastage. As the plastic bottle is considerably harder than the tubes normally used for this type of product, I hope I don’t stab myself with the scissors in the process! Please can we have this in a tub, BOOM?

--Application--
Boom scrub can be used over the basin or in the shower. It should be applied generously to a clean and moisturised face. Allow the scrub mask to penetrate your skin for five minutes for a deep pore cleansing and light exfoliation. Rinse thoroughly with water.

--Appearance--
BOOM SCRUB is a light sand colour and is thick and opaque with small granules of oak kernels evenly distributed throughout.

--Scent—
BOOM SCRUB smells slightly lemony. The scent is enough to make you feel refreshed without being invasive.

--Texture and consistency--
A thickish paste with tiny pieces of oak kernels that provide a delicate and gentle exfoliation.

--Effects on the skin—
Only a small amount is required to scrub the whole face. The scrub mask spreads easily over the face. It rinses off easily leaving skin feeling fresh, deep-cleansed and silky to touch.

--Value for money--
I was given this product free to trial for Bianca’s Beauty Blog (thank you, BOOM!). At $32 for 4oz, this may seem an expensive product but as so little is used it lasts ages. I am finding that the combination of BOOM products on my skin has definitely improved the texture and quality of my skin tone so I would purchase this for myself. With the gradual addition of its new products, BOOM is now providing for nearly all your make-up and cleansing/moisturising needs. Am definitely a BOOM convert, even though shipping from America needs to be added to the cost; sometimes it is worth placing a bulk order with other BOOM products to increase value for money. The international flat rate shipping charge costs $30 and it takes between 7 – 15 working days to arrive. Be sure to
select this flat shipping rate option, or you may be faced with additional customs charges when your package arrives. 

perfect partners
BOOMSTICK GLO, from $27 (or as part of the TRIO for $76, saving 6%)
BOOMSTICK COLOR, from $27 (or as part of the TRIO for $76, saving 6%)
BOOMSTICK GLIMMER, from $27 (or as part of the TRIO for $76, saving 6%)
BOOM SILK all-over face and body moisturizer, from $27
BOOM COTTON shine control moisturizer, from $32
BOOM MASK rejuvenating, cleansing and moisturizing mask, from $42
BOOM NECTAR skin serum, $54
BOOM CLEAN, from $32
BOOM CALM, $44

by Sarah Cross

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

Carun Active Hemp Soap Bar

RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Organic Cannabinoid rich gentle cleansing soap bar.

Naturally effective hypoallergenic skin maintenance and protection.

Naturally Antibacterial, analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.

Made from 100% organic oils, Carun soap is an incredibly gentle cleanser, helping to balance and maintain your skins natural PH and moisture levels."

--Packaging--

Packaged in a very environmentally friendly manner, the soap bar comes in a cardboard box with the white, blue and green colour scheme which characterises it as part of the Carun line. 

--Application--

Lather up under running water to create a foam which you can rub over clean dry skin and then rinse off.

--Appearance--

The soap is a creamy light cacao/off yellow colour which lathers into a white foam, leaving no visible residue on the skin. The Carun name and its trefoil logo is carved simply into the bar.

--Scent--

Again a creamy scent with a slightly refreshing zest to it, most likely thanks to the cacao and sea buckthorn.

--Texture and consistency--

The foam is fine yet luxurious.

--Effects on the skin--

The soap effectively rebalances the skin, reducing the amount of sebum production and generally calming the skin's condition, leaving it feeling moisturised.

--Value for money--

At £4.99 this is hardly going to break the bank and it indisputably calms acneic skin down, especially in conjunction with the Active Hemp Face Cream. One bar lasts ages and is not costly to replace. I was sent mine for free, but would buy again.

perfect partners

Active Hemp Face Cream, £16.99

Hemp Ointment, £16.99

Hemp Body Oil, £13.99

Hemp Bath Spa, £19.99

Rosehip Plus Hydrating Day Cream

RRP: £24

--What does the promo say?--
"This Hydrating Day Cream is a 100% pure and natural Australian Certified Organic facial moisturiser. It has been formulated with RosehipPLUS® 100% pure Certified Organic cold pressed Rosehip Oil as well as a blend of chamomile, avocado and rose geranium, which supports and encourages a healthier looking skin."

--Packaging--
The orange and white colour scheme is new and different, with the rosehip plant clearly silhouetted. The flip-top lid is practical also.

--Application--
Rub a small amount into your clean, dry face post-cleansing. A little goes a long way, so beware!

--Appearance--
The white cream dissolves invisibly into skin, leaving no residue.

--Scent--
Surprisingly citrusy, although not overpoweringly so.

--Texture and consistency--
As mentioned, blends well without any greasiness or stickiness.

--Effects on the skin--
The product's claims are perhaps a little vague and those with acneic skin may not find that it helps to balance oiliness. Those with drier skin may benefit more from the cream's alleged hydrating properties.

--Value for money--
While the quality of the sourced ingredients is undisputed, and the cream is pleasant to use, it didn't seem right for my skin type - a shame. I have had better success with oil cleansing methods in the past, however, so would be keen to try the rosehip oil from the same range instead.

perfect partners
Rosehip Oil, from £15
Skin Boost Roll-On, £10
Nourishing Night Cream, £29
Daily Cream Cleanser, £19

Wash Wizard

RRP: £7.99 for 5

--What does the promo say?--
"Wash Wizard is the number one solution to getting shower fresh without the shower!

• Ideal for festivals, camping, sports, work, travelling, kids, only a dash of water required to activate
• Impregnated with a body wash solution suitable for body and hair. No additional liquid, gels or creams required and no need to rinse
• Hypoallergenic and unscented it contains organic Aloe Vera to moisturise and soften the skin
• A perfect alternative to wipes, it leaves no sticky residue and it's light, small and easily transportable. Fully recyclable and reusable."

--Packaging--

The 5 sponges come in a cardboard box, which is very eco-friendly even if a little plain. The sponges themselves are individually wrapped in recyclable plastic. This is significantly less plastic and packaging than many other body cleansing options, and the blue Wash Wizard logo is cheerful too.

--Appearance--

The yellow sponges look like any other conventional sponges, with the exception that when water is added, a white foam oozes from them thanks to the added aloe vera. No visible residue is left on the skin once the foam has been rinsed away (that is, if you choose to rinse - the blurb says you don't need to). 

--Scent--

No detectable scent.

--Texture and consistency--

The foam is not too foamy, but comes in larger quantities than perhaps expected. This is not a bad thing!

--Effects on the skin--

While the sponge may feel different to use, as most of us probably use flannels or just our hands in the shower to wash our bodies, there's no reason why your skin should feel irritated by this product - especially as it's hypoallergenic and unscented. The body feels clean after use.

--Value for money--

£7.99 for a box of five represents excellent value for money given that a) they are reusable (unlike wipes, which are single-use), b) they have worthy credentials (organic and designed by teens who are donating a percentage of the product's profits to homelessness charities) and c) they are perfect for on the move, whether you're a festival-goer, commuter, or busy mum, making them convenient as well as eco-friendly. They go the distance and get you clean wherever you are. A hand-baggage must! Would recommend.

Native Unearthed Natural Crystal Deodorant

RRP: £6.49
# of varieties available: 4 (mangosteen, aloe, curcuma and natural)

--What does the promo say?--
"How do our Crystal Deodorants prevent odour?- By leaving an invisible layer of natural minerals on your underarms which works around the clock to prevent the build up of odour causing bacteria. Better still, whilst preventing odour, our natural deodorants don’t clog pores like normal deodorants. Instead, our deodorants still allow your body to continue it’s normal course of eliminating toxins from the body whilst providing round the clock protection. Choose Native, Choose confidence."

--Packaging--
The pinky-purple packaging of the mangosteen deodorant that I was kindly sent gives the product a delicate feel as well as perfectly reflecting the colour of the mangosteen fruit itself. It capitalises mainly on strong lettering and a modern, edgy spiral design that simultaneously seems to reflect the idea of plants growing abundantly, making it seem new and different to other deodorants on the market. The twist-up mechanism is of course familiar to users due to its usage in existing mass-market products, and the clear lid shows you exactly how the product looks before buying.

--Usage--
Run the crystal under some water before rubbing it underneath your dry underarms. No need to rinse off. Wait until it dries (no more time than your usual deodorant) before getting dressed.

--Appearance--
The crystal itself is a pale off-coral, pinkish colour, although the other varieties reflect their ingredients with their respective colours (green for aloe, yellow for curcuma and white for natural). When applied wet under your arms, it goes on invisibly and this does not change when the deodorant dries. Bonus: no white marks on clothing, either!

--Scent--
Surprisingly, none. This, along with the invisible appearance, can make you question whether or not it is really working! But stick with it :-)

--Texture and consistency--
Goes on smooth and wet and dries smooth too, with no graininess resulting once the deodorant dries.

--Effects on the skin--
No irritation, and it works as effectively as, if not more so than, high street deodorants. Great work!

--Value for money--
At £6.49, this is clearly more expensive than high street deodorants (similarly-priced deodorants can be purchased from brands such as Davidoff, Christina Aguilera and Pierre Cardin). However, it competes well with the natural deodorant market, with deodorants by Weleda, lavera and Green People all retailing similarly. I was also sceptical initially as I had tested another natural deodorant in the past, to poor results. However, with this I was pleasantly surprised: not only does it work very well, and leave no white marks on clothing, but there isn't the wastage that you would get with a spray (or even some roll-ons, where you seem to get more on your clothes than your body). Would definitely recommend :-)

Vaseline Spray and Go Body Moisturiser

RRP: £4.99 for 190ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Moisturises in seconds so you can put your clothes straight on. Instantly leaves skin soft, not sticky or greasy. Dispenses evenly with one all over continuous spray."

--Packaging--
The vibrant colours reflect the essence of each available scent (cocoa, oat, and aloe vera), while the plant-based illustrations also portray a degree of natural provenance. The spray mechanism is efficient, and the swivelling top means there's no pesky lid to lose, either, with the chances of leakage in your bag also being significantly reduced as a consequence.

--Application--
Hold 10 cm from the skin and spray where desired, before rubbing in. This is easy, with a little of the product going a long way.

--Appearance--
All variants spray on white and rub in invisibly.

--Scent--
While I haven't yet had a chance to try the cocoa butter variant (sadly!), Vaseline did kindly send me the oat version, which smells pleasantly neutral (think freshly laundered cotton), and the aloe vera version (which smells vaguely botanical, but not overwhelmingly so) - neither of which should interfere with perfume.

--Texture and consistency--
Rubs in quickly and easily, as promised, meaning you can get dressed straight away without worrying about the product staining your clothes.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin is left quickly moisturised and non-greasy, in both the short and long-term.

--Value for money--
This is at least £1 more than Vaseline's standard body lotions, so you really have to want this format and consistency specifically. However, other brands selling the same size package, including classic body moisturiser Atrixo, are roughly the same in terms of both cost and result. Crucially, though, this product currently represents something new and different, with only Palmers offering a similar product. So if you're one of those who likes to be first on the scene, you definitely won't be disappointed by this fragrant and functional product. Look out for good deals on the high street for even better value, too.

perfect partners
Lip Therapy, £2.10
Intensive Care Healthy Hands + Stronger Nails Hand Cream, £3.99
Pure Petroleum Jelly, from £2.19
Intensive Care Aloe Fresh Roll-On, £1.69
Active Fresh Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Spray, £1.90

Spa Technologies Vitamin C Mist

RRP: from £15

--What does the promo say?--
"An Isotonic Seawater Mist fortified with Hyaluronic Acid to attract and retain moisture to the skin and Antioxidants to restore lost minerals and vital elements. Use after cleansing or whenever skin needs refreshing."

--Packaging--
A chunky glass bottle with an eyecatching metallic blue band that looks sophisticated and modern while helping the brand name to stand out. I'm a fan of glass bottles - they are recyclable and help you to easily see how much is left. While this glass bottle is on the heavy side perhaps, this means it shouldn't shatter when travelling. The spray mechanism is good too and easily detachable from the bottle for recycling.

--Application--
Spray onto face directly after cleansing, or onto a cotton pad which you can then sweep over the face to pick up any excess dirt or makeup.

--Appearance--
A clear, watery liquid.

--Scent--
Slightly salty, but not overbearing. A natural scent that really evokes the sea.

--Texture and consistency--
The watery liquid goes on smoothly and leaves no visible or palpable residue.

--Effects on the skin--
As promised, it's immediately refreshing and keeps the skin hydrated. It also removes any excess dirt or makeup for optimum cleansing, meaning that you should see increased radiance, decreased dryness, and some overall improvement in skin condition, particularly thanks to the natural ingredients this contains.

--Value for money--
I was kindly sent the 30ml version by Spa Technologies, and while I loved it, I didn't find that this smaller bottle lasted as long as I was hoping, so when purchasing another bottle I would without doubt go for the better value 100ml bottle (which is only an additional £10). Natural, effective toners are hard to find, so this one definitely joins my skincare staples.

perfect partners
Vitamin C Moisturising Serum, £35
Revitalising Sea Cleanser, £25
Essential Kit, £59
Repair Kit, £101

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 SPF45 Tinted Moisturiser

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"This silky-smooth Tinted Moisturiser protects delicate skin with fortified Antioxidants and reflects the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 45. It is formulated with the added benefit of Mineral Makeup creating a flawless base and even skin tone."

--Packaging--
This convenient pump-action bottle is decorated with a double band of metallic blue, which helps to give the brand a clear identity. Blue is also an unusual packaging colour in the world of foundation and the glass bottle means that you can always see how much you have left - a definite bonus.

--Application--
After washing your face, apply over primer to commence your makeup routine. Add concealer and powder as necessary to complete your base before proceeding to other makeup.

--Appearance--
Is pale upon emerging from the bottle, but on the face provides no coverage whatsoever.

--Scent--
The cucumber extract comes through strongly, which is unusual and not at all unpleasant.

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and creamy without weighing the skin down. It also doesn't add white streaks to your face like conventional sunscreen. In that respect it's the best sunscreen I've ever used, whether commercial or natural - it's like using a luxurious face cream rather than the traditional, medicinal 'creaming up' process before going into the sun.

--Effects on the skin--
Given the raft of natural antioxidant and sun-protecting ingredients present in this cream, I have no doubt that you could expect anti-ageing effects over time and that you would avoid sun damage as well. However, as a tinted moisturiser it does not fulfil the brief due to the non-existent coverage. However, I acknowledge that I have acneic skin, and so that this may not be suitable for my needs.

--Value for money--
If I were looking for a tinted moisturiser that offered me coverage as well as protection I would be sorely disappointed to pay £35 for this as it does not keep its promise of creating a "flawless base". However, it's the best sunscreen I've ever used - perfect for the delicate skin on the face, and natural too, with a beautiful consistency, that without doubt protects you from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Price-wise it competes well with other brands offering natural sunscreen such as BareMinerals, as well as luxury brands such as Obagi and Kiehl's. For this reason, I would definitely shell out my hard-earned for it.

perfect partners
Spot Mask Treatment, £35
Restore Kit, £80

Natracare Organic Makeup Removal Wipes

RRP: £3.99 for 20

--What does the promo say?--
"Rule number one of a good skincare regime is to cleanse the skin properly, removing all make-up and grime. The last thing you want is a product that could be putting more on to your skin than it is taking off. Unlike conventional wipes, we use only the best organic and natural ingredients, making them incredibly gentle on your skin. Infused with the organic essential oils of almond, apricot and chamomile, Natracare Cleansing Make-Up Removal Wipes leave your skin moisturised, cleansed and refreshed naturally. The soft and strong organic cotton cloth is gentle but effective, removing even waterproof mascara and lipstick. Formulated for sensitive skin, the wipes are dermatologically and opthalmologically tested and free from all the types of ingredients women have ever been concerned about putting on their skin."

--Packaging--
The blue, purple and white colour combination of the plastic pouch is refreshing and feminine. Furthermore, the pouch opens and closes securely throughout the product lifespan, not losing stickiness at all as time passes.

--Usage--
Sweep one wipe over face and neck to remove makeup, using both sides of the wipe to ensure thorough makeup removal.

--Appearance--
The wipes are white, and the lotion they are soaked in is invisible, meaning minimum fuss.

--Scent--
An overriding citrus scent thanks to the oranges, lemons and bergamot, which adds to the wipes' refreshing character.

--Texture and consistency--
The organic cotton wipes are smooth and non-irritating, yet have enough of a slightly raised texture to gently scrub skin, enabling makeup removal.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes makeup just as well as any conventional makeup removal wipe I've tried, and maybe even better - it even does a great job on mascara.

--Value for money--
At £3.99 for 20 wipes, it therefore comes to around 20p per wipe, which is about standard (and even more commendable given the high-quality, organic provenance of these wipes' ingredients, as well as their robust packaging). It also competes favourably price-wise with high street brands (Boots, Simple, Soap & Glory, Clearasil and L'Oréal all charge about the same, for example). This product's only weak point is perhaps its lack of availability: with its main suppliers being online, you have to put in a little more effort to seek it out. Nevertheless, despite being sent mine for free this time, I would still spend my money on them in future. A great product that truly sets an example to others in terms of both quality and ethics.

Dr Organic Aloe Vera Wet Wipes

 RRP: £2.89 for 20 wipes

--What does the promo say?--
"A convenient way to remove make up, freshen up and maintain healthy skin. This 2 in 1 cleansing wipe combines the soothing properties of aloe vera in a refreshing wipe."

--Packaging--
The green and white colour scheme is bold and refreshing if unoriginal; it nonetheless also accurately reflects the ingredients used in the product. The sticky-back plastic window, which you peel back from the top of the pack to access the wipes, opens and closes easily and keeps the wipes fresh. In addition, the small pack size (20 wipes) means that this little bundle slips easily into handbags or hand baggage without being at all cumbersome.

--Application--
Wipe over the whole face, either to remove makeup, or to simply cleanse the face. Easy as.

--Appearance--
The white wipes are saturated with invisible cleansing lotion that leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Natural aloe vera smell as promised; nothing chemical, clinical or harsh about this.

--Texture--
The wipes are rough enough to cleanse well and smooth enough to remain gentle; however, I'd say that as holes appear in the wipes while you are using them, they are perhaps of slightly less high quality than others on the market (in this respect I preferred the Australian Bodycare wipes that I tested recently).

--Effects on the skin--
Skin feels cleansed, smoothed, soothed, and refreshed. Perfect for travel, summer, or just those nights when you CBA to wash your face properly.

--Longevity--
While one wipe will remove your makeup without trace and cleanse your face too, the pack still seems to run out rather quickly. Still, with 20 wipes in a pack, it'll happily do you for a long weekend or even a full week's break.

--Value for money--
These are inexpensive, cleanse and remove makeup well, and give you peace of mind thanks to the organic ingredients. Don't expect durability or for a pack to cover your whole summer holiday, though! Nevertheless, once my free pack runs out (thanks, Dr Organic PR!), I would consider repurchasing.

perfect partners
Aloe Vera Deodorant, £5.49
Aloe Vera Gel, £5.39
Aloe Vera Body Wash, £5.39
Aloe Vera Hand Wash, £5.19
Aloe Vera Lip Balm, £3.49
Aloe Vera Soap, £2.99
Aloe Vera Skin Lotion, £6.59
Aloe Vera Body Butter, £9.29
Aloe Vera Shampoo, £5.49
Aloe Vera Conditioner, £5.49
Aloe Vera Eye Gel, £9.29
Aloe Vera Travel Pack, £15