Kalme Skincare Basic Kit

RRP: 39.95GBP

--What does the promo say?--
"The Basic KALME Skin Care Kit contains the Kalme Day Defence SPF25, Kalme Night Cream and Kalme Cleanser.

The Kalme Range is a combination of unique skin care innovations to reduce redness.

Five separate actives work together to nourish, repair and protect you skin.

Derma Sensitive is a natural active from young caper buds. Scientifically shown to create clear and uniform skin tone. It also reduces skin's reactivity and increases feelings of skin comfort and suppleness.

A broad sprectrum Sun Filter SPF25 with UVA & UVB coverage

24 hour moisturisation from a natural plant active keeps your skin supple and comfortable.

A super antioxidant active neutralises free radicals and lowers the oxidative stress on your skin.

Perilla seed extract is a naturally rich source of skin beneifical Omega 3 and Alpha Linolenic Acids."

--Packaging--

The green and white packaging reflects its botanical content and the flip top lids are generally practical. However, the day cream is quite runny and often seeps into the lid, so consider storing upside down. Long-term I'd also like to see the recyclability credentials of this packaging increasing.

--Application and usage--

"Suggested regimen for the Kalme skincare pack:

AM: Cleanse with the Kalme Cleanser do not rinse off with water.( If using) first apply Undercoat then the Day Defence SPF25 to whole face, or just Day Defence on its own. If using then apply Kalme Chameleon Concealer to whole face rubbing in gently until the required tone match is achieved. Additional cosmetics can then be applied if required.

PM: Cleanse with the Kalme Cleanser do not rinse off with water.( If using) first apply Undercoat then apply Night Repair Cream, or just the Night Repair Cream on its own."\

This is all very easy to do. It also works fine if you use a damp flannel or muslin to remove the cream cleanser.

--Appearance--

All three products are white lotions of varying thicknesses. None leave a visible residue on the face.

--Scent--

All smell fresh and natural.

--Texture and consistency--

The cleanser is very thick, creamy and luxurious, whereas the day defence feels more like a very runny sunscreen. The night repair cream is somewhere in between, feeling more like a normal moisturiser. None are greasy or sticky and the moisturisers absorb well, leaving no residue. The night cream and cleanser especially feel luxurious to use.

--Effects on the skin--

Redness is dramatically reduced, as promised, and I also saw an improvement in my acne. However, I felt like the day defence dried out my skin too much, especially on my neck, so I ended up using an alternative day cream to rectify this. The cleanser also removes makeup effectively (I cleansed twice in order to achieve this), and I love that the day cream contains SPF25 (I can confirm that I did not get sunburnt while out and about with this on!).

--Value for money--

Individually this amounts to just over 13GBP per product, which seems reasonable. This is a significant reduction compared to actually buying the products on their own online (they retail at 14.95GBP-19.95GBP). So the bundle of products is definitely the way forward if you want a complete regimen. I also think it's worth the money in terms of the effectiveness of the cleanser and night cream - though for myself I would give the day cream a miss. Nonetheless, I would recommend the range for anyone with sensitive skin.

perfect partners

Chameleon Concealer SPF20, 19.95GBP

Kalme Skin Care Kit (Full Range), 52.95GBP*

Kalme Undercoat, 9.95GBP

Day Defence Cream+SPF30, 19.95**

*contains all the products from the basic kit plus the concealer - representing a saving of 6.95GBP.

**note that this differs from the SPF25 cream included in the basic and full kits

Cindy Joseph BOOM Clean

RRP: from $32

--What does the promo say?—

“Boom CLEAN is made with a gentle cleaning agent designed for sensitive skin. Safe for everyday use on all skin types.”

Enjoy beautifully refreshed skin with a daily cleanser made from the purest ingredients. Carefully formulated to our high standards, Boom Clean gently removes dirt, makeup, and pollutants without stripping away nutrients or moisture.

Boom Clean is Safe, Boom Clean is Pure

Our carefully blended formula is good for the skin as well as body and gentle enough for everyday use. Made only with hand-selected ingredients that meet our high standards. No soaps, perfumes or impurities—just clean.”

--Packaging--
As with all BOOM products, presentation is minimalist.  BOOM CLEAN is sold in a white bottle with a lid that flips up to dispense the product through a small nozzle.  The BOOM logo on the label has been altered to blue so that it stands out from the other products as a cleanser. 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.

--Application--
Instructions for application are as follows:

Apply to wet skin and massage over the entire area with fingers. Use washcloth if desired. Safe to use on eyes. Rinse off thoroughly with water.  Moisturise with Boom Silk, Boom Cotton, or Boomstick Glo.

--Appearance--
BOOM CLEAN is a clear, gel-like substance.

--Scent—

Despite the coconut-oil derived products listed, BOOM CLEAN actually smells more of fresh lemons - which likely comes from the grapefruit peel oil that the product contains.

--Texture and consistency--
A viscous substance with a uniform consistency that feels silky on application. Only a small amount is required to cleanse the whole face.  It gently foams as you massage it in.

--Effects on the skin—

Skin feels fresh and deep-cleansed after rinsing. If you do not wear a lot of make-up (for example, if you are only wearing the BOOMSTICK TRIO), then this cleanser will remove it.  It will even remove a fair amount of mascara…although it is not meant for this purpose.  An eye-make-up remover is needed to clear lashes of all traces of mascara. It should be noted that if you wear more heavy-duty make-up products, then you will need to remove them properly before using BOOM CLEAN to benefit from the deep cleansing.

 
--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 - even with the shipping costs included. 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 (though some shipments have taken as little as 5 days to arrive in mainland Europe). 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 $27

BOOMSTICK COLOR $27

BOOMSTICK GLIMMER $27

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 (from $54)
BOOM SCRUB, $45
BOOM CALM, $44

reviewed by Sarah Cross

Gatineau Purifying Primrose Gel Cleanser

RRP: from £21

--What does the promo say?--
"A must-have product for oily skins, our Purifying Primrose Gel Cleanser removes all traces of make-up and impurities whilst normalising surface oils. Rich in primrose extracts, this foaming gel unclogs and tightens pores with a non-drying formula. Perfect for those prone to breakouts and blackheads, this conditioning cleanser refines the complexion leaving your skin perfectly clear and shine-free. Suitable for all ages, particularly those with oily/combination skin types."

--Packaging--
The see-through bottle means you can always see how much is left and the flip-top lid is practical too. The logo is minimalist and sophisticated.

--Usage--
The Gatineau website says you need to "lather a small amount between hands before applying to the face and neck in circular motions, avoiding the eye area. Rinse off with cool water in the morning and warm water in the evening." I actually did this twice to ensure that not only was all makeup removed but my skin cleaned too. The double-cleanse sounds wasteful but a little goes a long way - so you're not sloshing loads of product around.

--Appearance--
The gel cleanser is a pleasing coral colour in the bottle, while leaving no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
A largely scentless experience, which is great for those who value subtlety in their products and don't want something overly perfumed.

--Texture and consistency--
A really smooth gel which lathers sufficiently to remove makeup as well as daily grease and grime.

--Effects on the skin--
As mentioned above, a double cleanse will ensure that all makeup is removed as well as cleaning the skin. I was really impressed that it actually did remove makeup and did not feel harsh and abrasive on the skin. Skin also felt and looked calm and mattified. It's also gentle enough to remove eye makeup without stinging the delicate eye area, while still removing even tough eyeshadow and mascara in one go.

--Value for money--
I actually bought mine as part of a gift set, which gave me 4 products for £28 (cleanser, toner, exfoliator and flannel). I'd always recommend going this route wherever possible as it's a great way to try out products before committing to buying them individually. Unfortunately the set I bought is no longer available, so where this fails, I'd always recommend shopping around - and while I would actually pay the RRP for this cleanser, as it's so gentle but effective, I also do love a good bargain, and have found this cleanser for £9.95 via FragranceDirect, which is an absolute steal. Shame the primrose toner no longer exists - but Gatineau's wide range means there's something for everyone, and the Gentle Silk Toner I recommend below should suit oily, sensitive 
and combination skin types. 

perfect partner
Gentle Silk Toner, £21
Sérenité Multi Protective Cream, £65

Beuti Pomegranate Glow Enzyme Cleanser

RRP: £35 for 50ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Improve skin tone and texture with the Pomegranate Glow Enzyme Cleanser from Beuti Skincare. Infused with fermented Pomegranate, an ingredient that delivers the benefits of Glycolic Acid without causing irritation, the gel balm hybrid transforms into a milk upon contact with water to effectively exfoliate and buff away impurities. A blend of Rose Clay and Copaiba Balsam work in tandem to smoothen and refine skin, whilst soothing and protecting against inflammation for long-lasting comfort. Featuring a 3 flower essence (Iris, Laurel and Myrtle), the luxurious cleanser gently clarifies your complexion to leave it looking radiant, youthful and revitalised. Can also be used as a mask for a more intense treatment."

--Packaging--

The red and white packaging gives a refreshing and fruity impression that clearly evokes the pomegranate on which the product is based, in a modern and minimalist way. Sadly the bottle seems cheaply made (lettering etc rubs off quickly) and the pump-action was tough to use as well (you had to press down quite hard to get the product to come out).

--Application--

Simply rub over wet skin before rinsing off.

--Appearance--

A gorgeous rosy brown colour that transforms into a milky substance on contact with water. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--

The rose clay and florals are detectable without being overwhelming; they combine to create a delicate scent that clearly comes from high-quality, authentic materials.

--Texture and consistency--

The product upon initial emission from the pump-action bottle is a smooth paste. It doesn't lather up like traditional cleansers, which can take some getting used to. It thins out significantly on contact with water to make a milky substance, which I unfortunately felt led to some wastage as it seems that no matter how little water you add, a good deal of the product runs down your wrists while you are trying to apply it to your face.

--Effects on the skin--

My acneic skin was definitely calmed down thanks to using this product; it's non-irritating and calms redness while reducing dryness. 

--Value for money--

This product is effective thanks to its high-quality ingredients, and quite luxurious to use as well. However, I would need to see improvement in the packaging and texture before repurchasing. Nevertheless, I feel this product has real promise, and as I love the brand's Sleep Elixir too, I will definitely be keeping an eye out for any expansion to the range.

perfect partner

Beauty Sleep Elixir, £42

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

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

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

Shu Uemura Pure:Nu Gentle Cleansing Oil-in-Gel

RRP: £24

--What does the promo say?--
"Inspired by our iconic cleansing oils, this revolutionary facial cleanser purifies skin without stripping valuable moisture. Cleansing oil-in-gel gently removes makeup and impurities leaving skin refreshed, clarified and soft. The new fluid gel texture can be used with dry or wet hands. The eco-conception formula is gentle to skin and the environment."

--Packaging--
The bright green packaging is really vibrant and unusual, and emphasises the inclusion of bamboo, as well as the green tea scent. The flip-top lid is sturdy and practical, and the tube doesn't overwhelm you with information, giving you all that's necessary in a minimalist manner.

--Application--
As mentioned, you can use this in dry or wet hands, rubbing it over your face before wiping off (with a flannel, tissue, or whatever your preferred apparatus is).

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

--Scent--
Some reviewers criticise the green tea scent for being too strong, but at this end it just seems fresh and neutral - not overly masculine or feminine, or enough to interfere with any perfume you're wearing.

--Texture and consistency--
Doesn't foam up at all, which comes as a surprise to anyone used to a foaming cleanser. However, it's a good surprise, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your cleanser doesn't contain SLS is satisfying too. Glides over the skin and rinses off easily.

--Effects on the skin--
Not sure how it does it, as the medicinal effects of bamboo are hotly disputed, and the green tea is present only as a scent rather than as a raw ingredient, but somehow skin seemed balanced, clarified, less red, and less stressed. Fab.

--Value for money--
£24 is not cheap, I grant you. And don't expect to get a discount either: Shu Uemura controls its distribution very tightly and I don't think reductions are part of their business strategy. But it's so effective, and you need to use so little each time to get a good result, that I would probably pay for it again. If only they made a toner and moisturiser to go with it too!

Avene Sensitive Skin Saviours Kit

RRP: £20 for 2 cleansers, a toner and a moisturiser

--What does the promo say?--
"The answer for those whose skin feels tight, blotchy and uncomfortable, this gentle routine contains all the steps needed to soothe, comfort and protect the skin and helps to reduce skin sensitivity long term. Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. Free from fragrance, parabens, colouring agents and alcohol."

--Packaging--
The cleansers come in see-through plastic bottles, while the toner comes in a spray can (which I have been assured by Avene is suitable for cabin baggage travel). The moisturiser comes in a standard plastic tube. Nonetheless, all good sizes to help you save space in your suitcase. The white and coral colour scheme is calming and unusual.

--Application--
Avène advises applying the cleanser to your skin and wiping it off with a cotton pad. However, it lathers well, so feel free to rub onto wet skin before removing with a damp flannel. The toner can be sprayed directly onto skin, or onto a cotton pad before rubbing over the face. Finally, the moisturising cream should be rubbed into clean dry skin until absorbed. All fairly straightforward really.

--Appearance--
The cleanser takes the form of a pearlescent liquid soap-like substance, which lathers white. The toner is just water really - and the moisturising cream is also white. None leave any visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Cotton-like and clean, with no artificial fragrances added. The spring water's minerality is what dominates.

--Texture and consistency--
As mentioned, the cleanser is soap-like and lathers well. The moisturiser is opulently thick, but absorbs well and doesn't leave a greasy or sticky film.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin is visibly calmed and less red, with dry patches combatted, although acne itself does not specifically diminish (but then again the product never claims to do this and Avene has a whole other range for this purpose).

--Value for money--
Avene's PR kindly sent mine over for nothing, but £20 for a travel pack compares favourably to the prices of all of these products separately (£29.50). Equally, it's averagely priced for the travel cosmetics market - and to get 300ml of product for this price is very good. My only change would be to take the toner out of its can so as to see more clearly how much is left. Otherwise, effective and well-packaged products to keep skin calm in the face of sun, sea and sand.

perfect partners
Avene Tolerance Extreme Mask, £15 for 50ml
Cold Cream Body Lotion, £20 for 400ml
Very High Protection Spray (SPF50+), £20 for 200ml
Gentle Eye Makeup Remover, £9.50 for 125ml
Soothing Eye Contour Cream, £10 for 10ml
Hydrance Optimale Skin Tone Perfector (available in multiple shades), £16.50 for 40ml

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

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

Dr Hauschka Cleansing Milk

RRP: £22.95/145ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Cleansing Milk gently removes dirt and make-up prior to cleansing with Cleansing Cream. For sensitive skin, Cleansing Milk is a daily cleanser with harmonising, protective properties to calm sensitivity and help diminish the appearance of redness, whilst maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance."

--Packaging--
The glass bottle with shiny metal pump action mechanism is elegant, but not travel friendly. The ubiquitous orange band at the bottom of the label makes it clear that this product belongs to the Dr Hauschka family, and the minimalist colour scheme makes the bottle look clean and sophisticated.

--Application--
There are several ways to do this. You can apply to wet skin for cleansing (before rinsing) or apply to damp cotton pads to remove makeup. Alternatively, you can just smear it around your face and remove with a dry cotton pad, which is what I prefer to do, as then any excess essential oils can be absorbed into the skin.

--Appearance--
A slightly beige-coloured cream that leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--
I'd say the jojoba and almond are most obvious (although who knows what woundwort smells like?).

--Texture and consistency--
A rich, luxurious cream that nonetheless won't clog pores.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes makeup effectively, and leaves skin feeling matte and moisturised. Technically a one-step/all-in-one product in my opinion.

--Value for money--
I'd take this even at the UK RRP, as I think it's excellent quality. However, as always, try to buy in Germany, where it can be had for as little as €15.95 (around £13.30).

perfect partners
Facial Toner, £22.95
Rose Day Cream Light, £23.95
Rejuvenating Mask, £33.95
Eye Contour Day Balm, £29

Botanics 97% Organic Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm

RRP: £6.99

--What does the promo say?--
"This organic deep-cleansing balm contains a luxurious blend of Shea Butter, Rosehip and Jojoba Oil to leave skin smooth and beautifully clean. The ultra-rich softening formula swiftly lifts make-up, while the gentle polishing action of the muslin cloth helps dislodge pore-clogging debris, revealing your beautiful radiant complexion. Rosehip is nature's nourishing gem. The seeds are a rich source essential Omega oils, which help to improve suppleness and keep all skin types beautifully soft and healthy looking. Our beauty scientists use active plant extracts approved by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, to bring you beautiful skincare that's proven to work. We've taken steps to reduce our impact on the planet at every stage in this product's journey."

--Packaging--
The white pot means it's an economical product - you can scrape out every last drop. The muslin cloth it comes with is also a bonus.

--Application--
Rub onto your face and then remove with either a) a cotton pad (to remove makeup) or b) the muslin cloth, soaked in hot water (to clean your face normally). Luxurious, easy and comforting.
 
--Appearance--
A rich yellow waxy substance that leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
The ingredients used combine beautifully to create a natural, slightly floral fragrance, with the jojoba, beeswax, shea and almond perhaps being most prominent.

--Texture and consistency--
Satisfyingly smooth without being greasy. Easy to remove.

--Effects on the skin--
Makeup is removed easily and skin feels cleansed, calm, soft and radiant. Acne is also improved.

--Value for money--
I was expecting this to be much more expensive than it is. A high-quality product that's a joy to use and yields excellent results too. Mine was free, but I would definitely stock up on this once my press sample has run out.
 
perfect partners
93% Organic Super Balm, £4.49
80% Organic Hydrating Eye Cream, £6.99
Organic Facial Oil, £4.99
81% Organic Hydrating Day Cream, £6.99
100% Organic Rosewater Toning Spritz, £3.49
82% Organic Softening Cleanser, £3.59 

Dr Hauschka Cleansing Cream

RRP: £14.95

--What does the promo say?--
"Deep cleansing. Maintains the pH balance so that the acidic barrier protecting your skin is not broken down. Maintains and supports the skin's natural moisture level."

--Packaging--
The white metal tube is mostly practical, though could be prone to breaking in the middle if you don't squeeze from the end. The slightly sober design gives the impression of a brand to be taken seriously, and is suitably unisex.

--Application--
Easy to use - just squeeze a little into your palm and rub gently onto a damp face before rinsing off. Don't be too rough - the almond meal will do the work for you. 

--Appearance--
Doesn't look the way you'd expect a cream to thanks to its grainy appearance. The dark orange colour is also a surprise - even though it looks natural rather than artificial - but doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin. 

--Scent--
A slightly oaty, yeasty smell that probably comes from the nuts and nut oils used in the product (almond and peanut) as well as the wheatgerm. The floral and fruity ingredients are not detectable at all, and neither is the witch hazel.

--Texture and consistency--
Satisfyingly scrubby without being rough. Not creamy, though, so no idea where this concept of it being a "cleansing cream" has come from.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin looks noticeably more radiant even from the first use, and skin condition (including acne) visibly improves. Skin is left clean and fresh, especially when used with other Dr Hauschka products. Even on hot days, skin is significantly less oily and shiny, making this a spectacularly efficient product.

--Value for money--
Unquestionably good thanks to the excellent results. Even the UK price, which is often hiked up significantly compared to European prices, is reasonable at just under £15. It's true that with twice-daily use you may need to replace it as often as once a month - but given how high a price tag many other companies put on such a good outcome, this is a quality product that's fairly priced. Would repurchase.

perfect partners
Cleansing Clay Mask, £25.45
Facial Toner, £23.45
Normalising Day Oil, £24.25