Yes to COCONUT Ultra-hydrating moisturising coconut oil stick

RRP: £9.99

--What does the promo say?--

“Yes to going (coco) nuts for coconut oil and this first ever, do-it-all moisturising miracle in a stick, which is a clean, easy, mess-free way to apply it. It can be used on the face, body or anywhere you need extra hydration. It has a non-greasy texture and melts on contact with the skin. Consider this your holy grail of head-to-toe hydration, especially when on-the-go.”

--Packaging--

The product is in a wide stick dispenser, with a clear, screwtop lid and a twist-up mechanism at the bottom.  Of course, as with so many beauty products these days, it is a ‘single-use plastic’ and needs to be recycled. Attractive and eye-catching, it has a brown and white label with golden coconuts on it and a wide gold band around the lid.  Full instructions can be found on the back of the label. The advantage of a moisturiser in a stick is that no matter how much of the product is used, the stick will always stand neatly in your bathroom, unlike tubes which tend to topple over when nearly empty.  It is also a handy travel size and would fit into your handbag if you wanted to re-moisturise during the day whilst at work. As on all Yes To packaging, "Literally, front and centre on all our products you’ll find our seal showing each and every product contains at least 95% NATURAL INGREDIENTS." (See their mission statement on their website for more!)

--Application--

Designed to be mess-free, this way of applying moisturiser is unique and highly successful.  You simply swipe it across the areas you wish to moisturise. I found that one swipe the length of my arm enabled me to moisturise virtually my entire arm (I do have quite thin arms though!).  The product spreads even further once you have applied it. It is definitely a clean and mess-free way to apply moisturiser as you do not have to rub it in if you do not wish to.

--Appearance--

A thick, opaque, creamy-looking solid stick. Once on, it leaves your skin with a wonderful silky shimmer after application.  It looks great on tanned legs too. A finishing touch for going out on a summer evening.

--Scent--

Delicious and unmistakable.  Great if you like coconuts! Reminiscent of suntan lotion - though others may find it overpowering and sweet.

--Texture and consistency--

The texture is thick and creamy. Silky on application and non-greasy, as promised.

--Effects on the skin--

This moisturiser is a WOW for dry skin.  Lines and dryness disappear completely. Some people may find it rather too shiny and thick on the face but on the body it is just what dry skin needs.

--Value for money--

Compared to other products on the market, Yes To products are extremely well-priced.  You need to bear in mind, though, that you probably need to buy these sticks more frequently than you would buy a large tube or pot of moisturiser, especially if you are using it over your entire face and body - my satisfaction with the quality of this product has meant that I am already on my second stick.

perfect partners

Yes to Coconut 2-step lip kit, £4.99

Yes to Coconut Ultra-hydrating paper mask, £2.99

Yes to Coconut Ultra-hydrating Micellar cleansing water, £6.99

Yes to Coconut naturally smoothing lip balm, £3.79

Yes to Coconuts Coconut oil cleansing balm, £9.99

Yes to Coconuts Energising Coffee 2-in-1 scrub and cleanser stick, £9.99

Yes to Coconuts Energising Coffee super eye mask, £2.99

by Sarah Cross

Compeed Cracked Heel Overnight Cream

RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"COMPEED^®Cracked Heel Overnight Cream contains a unique blend of Urea and Lactic Acid and intensively moisturises to improve the appearance of cracked heels while you sleep."

--Packaging--
The blue and yellow packaging is summery and appeals to both men and women. The tube is also practical, with the lid closing securely enough that you don't have to worry about it leaking during travel. At 75ml, it's also suitable for holidays when you might be travelling with hand baggage only.

--Application--
Rub into clean feet at night before going to bed. If you like, you can wear socks after application to encourage even deeper moisturisation.

--Appearance--
The cream is white, but rubs in invisibly.

--Scent--
Clean without seeming artificial; perhaps slightly citrusy.

--Texture and consistency--
Sinks into skin quickly, and importantly lets skin breathe.

--Effects on the skin--
Soothes any itchiness that you may be feeling, and visibly reduces the amount of dry flaky skin within 1-3 weeks.

--Value for money--
One tube probably lasts 3-4 weeks, and it's one of the best I've used. Even though I was sent mine for free, I'd pay the affordable price tag to replace it once it runs out.

Rose and Co Rose Petal Salve

RRP: £3.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Our celebrated salve is packaged in a beautiful pink ointment tin and remains our best-selling product. A fabulous lip salve and also helpful for dry patches and rough skin, there seems to be no end to the uses of this magical little balm."

--Packaging--
The delicate pink and black colour scheme of the tin will appeal to girly girls as well as potentially those with a more Gothic side. The line drawings of flowers are creative and beautiful, and add a further sense of whimsy and quirkiness. The tin itself closes securely, while being easy to open when needed.

--Application--
Apply to any area of your body that needs a bit of TLC: lips, elbows, knees, cuticles... Be warned, though: a little goes a long way!

--Appearance--
While the salve initially looks a bit lurid in the tin, as it is a very bright pink, this effect disappears on application, with no staining (or indeed colouration of any kind) occurring.

--Scent--
Matches the rose imagery perfectly, although may be a little sweet for some.

--Texture and consistency--
Soaks into skin beautifully, and is soft without being oily or greasy.

--Effects on the skin--
This balm is non-irritating and will soothe any dry areas of skin with continued use. I would love a body lotion and foot cream so that I could easily harness this magic for the areas of my body that suffer most, over larger areas than this tin is designed for.

--Value for money--
At a mere £3.99 this does an excellent job using natural ingredients, and won't break the bank either. Very few all-purpose beauty balms retail in this budget bracket, so I'd advise hopping to it and getting yourself one ASAP (and at this price you can afford to get one for female friends and family, too!). I was sent mine by Rose & Co's lovely PR, but would definitely splash out my own cash for this handbag-friendly beauty.

perfect partners
Rose Petal Lip Balm, £3.00
Rose Petal Hand Cream, £5.00

Crabtree and Evelyn Gardeners Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy

RRP: from £6 for 25g

--What does the promo say?--
"After a long day of handling thorny situations, our Gardeners Hand Therapy is just the help you need. Containing a blend of nutrient-rich shea butter, moisturising glyercin, deodorising clover and soothing bisabolo from camomile our hand therapy will help nourish and condition work-roughened hands.

• Shea butter rich formula
• Soothes
• Conditions
• Restores softness
• New durable polylaminate tube"

--Packaging--

The brown tube is new and different, and echoes the earthiness of the 'gardeners' concept. The octagonal screw-top lid, however, is a bit sharp on the corners and therefore not very nice to undo, especially when tightly screwed on. The range of packaging sizes (25g all the way up to 250ml) is a good move, however, meaning that you're well-equipped whether on the move or in your normal bathroom at home.

--Application--

Rub into dry hands whenever needed. 

--Appearance--

White, but leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Simply gorgeous: the herbal elements, such as the rosemary, sage and thyme, are particularly evident, meaning that the scent can be enjoyed by all as it isn't overpoweringly floral or sweet. Again, very in keeping with the 'gardeners' theme too.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooth, while still being luxuriously thick, and sinks into skin quickly. No stickiness at all.

--Effects on the skin--

Hands feel instantly smoother and soothed. 

--Value for money--

The range of available sizes means there's something for every budget (I was sent the smallest version by Crabtree and Evelyn's PR - perfect for my handbag!), and the pleasing scent and clear smoothing effects are undeniable. However, it would be very much appreciated if Crabtree and Evelyn were to remove palm oil from their products as soon as possible, as the deleterious environmental effects associated with this ingredient are well-documented, and its usage is completely unnecessary in a product that already is jam-packed with luscious essential oils.

perfect partners

Nail and Cuticle Therapy, £10

Hand Recovery Scrub, from £5

Hand Wash, £15

Hand Scrub with Pumice, £13

60 Second Fix Kit for Hands, from £10

Deluxe Gift Set, £50

Footner Exfoliating Socks

RRP: £19.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Footner Exfoliating Socks is a revolutionary product to give you smooth, softer feet with just one 60 minute application Footner Exfoliating Socks make use of the skin’s natural exfoliation process to rid your feet from years of dead skin build-up. After just one application your feet will shed this dead skin. Feeling young and rejuvenated, your feet will be smoother than ever.

Using this product will result in the peeling of the hardened skin build-up on your feet. Footner Exfoliating Socks makes use of the skin’s natural peeling process to remove callus and dead skin from the feet. 5-10 days after application the layers of dead skin will peel from the soles of the feet. This peeling process will continue for about 2 weeks depending on the thickness of the skin.

After this time you will be left with soft, smooth, rejuvenated, baby-soft feet."

--Packaging--

The pink box is cheerful and the silver pouch containing the 'socks' is modern and sleek. The 'socks' themselves are more like plastic bags, filled with the treatment fluid.

--Application--

Cut open the 'socks' along the indicated line, and ease your clean, dry feet into them. Seal them with the adhesive strip along the side of the 'sock', closing gaps as far as possible. Finally, put normal socks on (perhaps an old pair in case the treatment fluid leaks) so that you can walk around as usual during the treatment. Once the treatment time is up, remove and dispose of the plastic 'socks' and rinse and dry your feet. This is an easy process that is not too messy.

--Appearance--

As mentioned, the 'socks' are made of durable clear plastic. The treatment liquid is also transparent and leaves no visible residue on the feet.

--Texture and consistency--

The treatment fluid is watery and is easy to rinse off post-soaking. Rather than being the kind of exfoliator that comes with bits of beach embedded in it, this is a chemical exfoliant that has an even consistency.

--Scent--

None discernible.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin does not feel irritated by the treatment fluid, and initially little difference is felt. However, over the next week or two, there is visible peeling as the vast majority of dry skin falls away. You will need a powerful vacuum cleaner, a patient partner, and a good gross-out factor threshold. Just when you begin to genuinely believe you were actually a lizard in a past life, you are, as promised, left with baby-soft skin.

--Value for money--

Initial results are impressive, and value for money increases if you look out for special deals (Boots are offering a 25% discount at present, for example). Equally, we could definitely argue that this is excellent value compared to the prices of traditional spa treatments. However, I found that the results weren't as long-lasting as other exfoliating socks that I've tried, so would be keen to shop around to ensure that I was getting the very best outcome for my money. 

perfect partners

Soft Foot Foam, £10.95

Daily Repair Cream, £8.49

Grahams Natural Shampoo and Conditioner

RRP: £11.99 each
 
--What does the promo say?--
"A gentle blend of organic and natural ingredients to relieve and protect a dry and sensitive scalp."

--Packaging--
The bright yellow and blue combination is bold, youthful, unisex and unique, meaning it would definitely stand out on the shelf.

--Usage--
Business as usual here: lather up the shampoo and massage through wet hair before rinsing out. Follow this by smoothing the conditioner through the roots and leave for a few minutes before washing it out. The usual amount required; a blob around the size of a 50p piece should suffice in each case.

--Appearance--
Both come out an unorthodox blue colour; no idea where this comes from. They foam whiter, though, and leave no visible residue.

--Texture and consistency--
As is normal, the conditioner doesn't lather as such, but just remains a blue, creamy, slightly pearlescent lotion. The shampoo foams up a bit into a slightly whiter concoction with some effort, but again, is a blue nacreous cream to start with. Both rinse out without difficulty.

--Scent--
Weirdly, slightly pepperminty or menthol-ish. Again, no idea where this originates. You can smell the coconut a bit if you sniff hard enough, which is good for those who aren't especial fans of the coconut scent.

--Effects on the hair--
Easily as effective as any commercial shampoo and conditioner, leaving hair softened, volumised and degreased. Scalp-wise, dry skin is definitely reduced and there is no irritation.

--Value for money--
Admittedly I balked at the price when I saw it online, but we perhaps shouldn't be so surprised: if we want quality results on our hair without the artificial ingredients, we surely need to pay for the care that goes into selecting authentic components. Commercial products are frequently so ludicrously cheap that we just aren't used to paying what things actually cost anymore. If by buying this you get good results without the chemicals, and kick dry and itchy scalps into touch too, then tant mieux. However, I think Grahams need to pimp the packaging if they want consumers to believe this is a high-end product that delivers equally good results. While this current packaging is unique and eye-catching, sophisticated it ain't. It's also significantly more expensive than, say, Lush's natural shampoo bars, which also deliver excellent results through natural ingredients, without the plasticated packaging. So while Grahams' hair products ultimately have a good basis, I'd say there's still a few tweaks to be made.

perfect partners
Grahams Natural Soap, £5.50
Grahams Natural Sooth-It Balm, £17.99
Grahams Natural Bath Oil, £14.50
Grahams Calendulis Plus Cream, from £13.95
Grahams Natural Kids Eczema Cream, £18.99

Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub

RRP: £21.50 for 150g
 
 --What does the promo say?--
"A professional treatment used in Caudalie’s Vinothérapie® Spas in Bordeaux, France, this natural, grape-rich body scrub made with exfoliating grape-seeds, rich honey, softening brown sugar and 6 essential oils, leaves the skin smooth, ultra soft and silky. For anyone looking for deep exfoliation combined with slimming action. 99% natural ingredients."

--Packaging--
As mine came as part of a gift set from my sister-in-law, it was in a tiny kilner jar. This appears to be in a plastic tub with a black screw-top lid. The advantage of both is that you can get right in there with your fingers to scoop out the last dregs (as opposed to, say, a tube). However, the opening mechanism of the kilner jar may be easier to grab hold of in the shower when you're trying to open or close it with slippery fingers.

--Application--
Caudalie's website recommends usage twice a week on damp skin. I was using mine every day to attack the dry skin on my feet and didn't suffer any ill effects from this, so you probably could use it more frequently on really tough areas. Twice a week, however, is probably a good idea if you are just trying to maintain normal skin condition.

--Appearance--
A brown, grainy scrub in which the crushed grape seed and sugar granules can be easily seen.

--Scent--
Despite all of the essential oils this contains, the only scent I could pick up on was the bitter, anti-oxidant smell of the crushed grape seed. Luckily, this isn't overly bitter or overpowering, so perhaps the essential oils used serve mainly to balance this out, rather than to be the stars of the show themselves.

--Texture and consistency--
Very good for a gentle yet effective attack on dry body skin. However, it might be too harsh for use on your face, just in case anyone was thinking of trying it: as mentioned, the exfoliating agents used are clearly visible and exist in quite large granules. The essential oils make the scrub smooth, not sticky, and the scrub as a whole is easy to rinse.

--Effects on the skin--
Clearly diminishes the quantity and appearance of dry skin, and then subsequently manages skin condition. Skin is smoothed and moisturised simultaneously, leaving you feeling like you've had a luxurious yet effective experience.

--Value for money--  
While the price may initially seem a little steep, here are some thoughts to consider: a) you get the desired results; b) the experience of using this product is spa-like rather than purely utilitarian; c) if you want high-quality ingredients, then you have to pay; and d) even my tiny jar lasted ages, so this cavernous and heavy-duty pot should endure for an eternity. Would recommend.

perfect partners
Contouring Concentrate, £24
Draining Herbal Teas, £10
Nourishing Body Lotion, £20

Scholl Nail Beauty Set

 RRP: £40

--What does the promo say?--
"This useful Scholl Nail Beauty Set includes 13 different manicure and pedicure attachments, and an integrated nail dryer."

 --Packaging--
The box is Scholl's usual cheerful blue and yellow, which means you immediately associate it with a trustworthy brand, and implies that the product will be effective. The nail beauty set itself is compact and practical, meaning you could easily take it with you on holiday or to a sleepover, without it a) falling open in your bag and spilling all the attachments everywhere, or b) it taking up too much space. Each attachment has its own individual space in the carry case, and the nail drier is well integrated into the tray as well. The lid is an attractive blue-green colour and is made of see-through plastic, evoking images of sea, spas, and swimming pools, which all adds to the general notion of well-being. There's room enough, too, between the lid and appliance to ensure that there is enough space for the mains wire (no matter how haphazardly you shove it in there) and the instruction leaflet (which comes in English and Arabic).

--Usage--
The aforementioned instruction leaflet is clear and concise, and comes with a handy diagram that labels each attachment with a letter for logical identification. It would be even better if each attachment had the corresponding letter marked on it, or if the kit came with stickers for you to mark them yourself - some attachments are quite small and look similar to others. Still, you could always do this yourself with a permanent marker. The two-speed manicure pen is easy to use and not at all painful (even if the whirring sound is a little reminiscent of a trip to the dentist), and can be used either wirelessly or while plugged into the mains (the same is true of the unit itself when you wish to activate the nail dryer). The attachments are also easy to clip into place and then to remove, which along with the painlessness of treatment makes the set ideal for beginners who may lack confidence with professional-seeming instruments.

--Results--
The various files shape nails and cuticles effortlessly, leaving a smooth rather than ragged finish. The buffing discs are also effective once you've finished evening out the nails that have a rougher texture. However, the cones for removing rough skin are perhaps the stars of the show, transforming your lizard feet in moments. The integrated nail dryer is also convenient and does the job well.

--Value for money--
The efficacy and simplicity of this kit makes the £40 price tag a pleasant surprise. Scholl could easily charge double for it and it would still be worth it. However, the £40 RRP keeps it accessible for all, and it's perfect for keeping your feet in top condition in between (or perhaps even in place of) professional pedicure sessions. I was sent mine for free by Scholl's lovely PR, but would definitely pay out for it and recommend it to others (FWIW, Amazon and Argos are the main suppliers).

perfect partners
Velvet Smooth Essential Moisture Cream, £5.99
Velvet Smooth Foot Soak, £6.99
Colour Pop Foot Spa, £30 
Fungal Nail Treatment, £19.40

Bakewell Soap Company Foot Soother

RRP: £6.95/30g

--What does the promo say?--
"Highly effective on dry skin, bruised, sore soles and cracked heels. All-natural and kind-to-the-skin with active cineols and sesquiterpones that reduce bruising and inflammation."

--Packaging--
Comes in a small tin that's perfect for travelling. The lid clips shut easily, so no danger of it leaking. The bright green label is also cheerful and modern.

--Application--
Massage into feet and calves to moisturise dry skin and cool the affected area. Easy really (although you may need to dig your nails/fingers into the wax a bit to get started).

--Appearance--
An off-yellow wax that disappears invisibly into skin.

--Scent--
The peppermint and arnica are very obvious, making for a great wakeup call. However, as this balm also contains lavender, it is also soothing enough scent-wise to prepare you for sleep.

--Texture--
This wax is quite densely packed into its tin, meaning your fingers will just skim over the top of its smooth surface initially. However, use your fingers (or a spoon!) to dig into the pot to make a well in the centre. Then you should be able to get hold of enough to rub into your skin. For this reason, it would be helpful if the pot came with a spatula.

--Effects on the skin--
As good as any commercial body butter, and better - it softens skin really well and the essential oils have their own calming qualities too. Also a worthy rival for Liz Earle's Superbalm, which is a little more than twice the price.

--Value for money--
I was sent mine for free by the company's PR (thanks guys!) but I would definitely purchase this once my pot runs out (although when that'll be, who knows, as one pot seems to last ages too). Without doubt a brand to watch.

perfect partners
Sea Mint with Kelp soap, £3.95 (comes with matching cotton bag for an extra £3)
After Exercise Soothing Deep Muscle Rub, £8.95 

Dr Hauschka Almond Body Moisturiser

 RRP: £24 for 145ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Ultra-rich care that gently nurtures the senses. Provides intensive, nurturing care for dry, sensitive skin, helps your skin prevent moisture-loss throughout the day, and helps your skin restore and harmonise its natural balance."

--Packaging--
A glass pump-action bottle that would look elegant anywhere. Sadly, no smaller sizes are available for travel.

--Application--
Massage into dry skin, ideally before bed or before getting dressed in the morning.

--Appearance--
A pale, cream-coloured lotion that sinks invisibly into the skin.

--Scent--
The almond scent is obvious as soon as the lotion comes out of the bottle - you don't even need to rub it in for the scent to be activated. Basically makes you smell like cake, which is always a winner.

--Texture and consistency--
Wonderfully creamy and luxurious. Not at all sticky or watery. Takes a bit of time to sink into the skin, however.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin is left beautifully soft both short and long-term, meaning that you wouldn't even need to use this daily to keep up the effects.

--Value for money--
As noted in other Dr Hauschka reviews, you don't get the best value by buying this in the UK - especially given my estimate that 25ml of this stuff will only moisturise your body twice at most (meaning that 145ml will only do 12 applications, tops). In Germany, this is priced at €17, so a much more competitive £14 in today's money, and even in France, with its RRP of nearly €22, you'll save a good £6. Definitely take the opportunity to buy this when in mainland Europe - it's a luxurious yet practical product that ticks all the boxes.

perfect partners
Almond St John's Wort Body Oil, £20
Almond Soothing Body Wash, £13
Almond Soothing Bath Essence, from £3
Moisturising Mask, £38
Almond Desires Gift Set (contains the almond body moisturiser and a soothing body wash sample), £24 

Montagne Jeunesse Deodorising Foot Scrub

RRP: £1.09 for 25ml

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indulgence Spa Products Microdermabrasion Crystal Exfoliating Body Soap Bar

RRP: £5/65g; £28/225g

--What does the promo say?--

"The Crystal Peel Exfoliating Soap Body Bar delivers the benefits of professional microdermabrasion in the shower with a quick exhilarating lather and is great for men and women. The soap's brisk polishing action helps stimulate new collagen production and buff away dull, dry skin. It also helps to even out hyperpigmentaion. Ideal for use before spray tanning, waxing or shaving. Clinically proven to treat folliculitis (ingrown hair) and helps to prevent keratosis pilaris (KP), eczema, psoriasis, stretchmarks and cellulite."

--Packaging--

My soap came in a cute little blue see-through bag (thanks, Indulgence Spa Products!), with the soap wrapped in a layer of plastic and a blue and white loop of paper, which keeps things very sweet and simple. I see that when you order this online (from www.menareuseless.com, where only the 225g version is available, or from www.indulgencespaproducts.co.uk from September 1st 2012), the soap also comes with a soap dish, which would have been VERY handy for me as I was constantly trying to wedge it in somewhere in the shower where parts of the bar wouldn't be dissolved (and thus wasted).

--Application--

Once you've got your skin wet under the shower, rub the bar slowly over your body skin (note: do not use on face). You don't need to scrub as the bar does the work for you. This is easy to get your head round (and your hands, thanks to the bar's curved ergonomic design). The bar doesn't make much lather when rubbed over the skin, but more can be created when you massage your skin with your hands, going over where the bar has just been. This makes the experience indulgent as well as functional, and it's easy to rinse off afterwards. You can follow with other shower gels or body moisturisers if liked.

--Appearance-- 

The bar itself is a dull grey colour, with small hard particles being visible. On the skin, no coloured residue is left, and the white lather washes off easily too.

--Scent--

Just smells of minerals more than anything else, which in a way shouldn't be surprising given the prevalence of corundum (or alumina) crystals. However, the other main ingredients (olive oil, vitamin E, aloe vera, and shea butter) were not at all detectable.

--Texture and consistency--

Unlike with some body exfoliators, where the effect is underwhelming, Crystal Peel's Body Bar gives a truly satisfying level of exfoliation. Those with sensitive skin may find the bar too hard or harsh, but it ultimately depends on the kinds of treatments you like. With a texture reminiscent of hard sand, it still manages to treat skin gently - used properly, it shouldn't leave skin feeling or looking inflamed or irritated.

--Effects on the skin--

 I seem to suffer permanently with dry feet, and have tried many body bars and exfoliators in the past to combat this, with only limited success. Quite often the artificial 'exfoliating beads' that are present in these products do very little, and when the bars do a bit more, they lose structural integrity far too quickly even in a tin, box or tray, meaning that you waste a lot of product. None of these shortfalls exist with Crystal Peel's bar - you get effective exfoliation that banishes dry skin without everyday use, and even the smallest bar will last many weeks. You are also left with a smooth finish whereby itching is reduced.

--Value for money--

Plenty of brands offer exfoliating bars, from high street giants such as Lush and Soap & Glory to luxury brands such as Molton Brown and Bliss. From the outset, they seem to be better value for money - you can get a lot more than 65g for £5 with the vast majority. However, to me results like Crystal Peel's can't be argued with - I noticed an immediate as well as an ongoing difference, and when you have a constant beauty problem, you are inclined to stick with the one thing that seems to fix it. For that reason I would purchase this product again if I needed it - assuming it hasn't sent the dry skin packing completely.

 perfect partners*

Crystal Peel Microdermabrasion Exfoliator

For Men Microdermabrasion Pre-Shave Formula

Crystal Peel Collection Gift Set

Crystal Peel Lip Lift Plumper

Crystal Peel Vitamin E Lip Therapy

Crystal Peel Lip Renewal Exfoliator

Crystal Peel Lip Care Collection 

*all available from http://www.crystalpeel.org/ecommerce/

Johnson's Baby Oil

RRP: from £1.30/100ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Locks in moisture for baby soft skin. It's a silky soft moisturizer for silky soft skin. JOHNSON'S^® Baby Oil locks in up to ten times more moisture on wet skin than an ordinary lotion can on dry skin, leaving your baby's skin soft and smooth. This gentle oil is also easy to spread, so it's ideal for baby massage.

For baby:

• Moisturizes baby's delicate skin and helps protect from dryness
• Pure mineral oil forms a silky barrier to help prevent excess moisture loss
• Great for baby massage and parent-baby bonding
• Clinically proven mild and gentle formula
• Dermatologist and allergy-tested
• Great for your skin, too!

For you:

• Locks in up to ten times more moisture on wet skin than an ordinary lotion can on dry skin
• Use to soothe and relieve dry, rough patches
• Leaves skin glowing and baby soft
• Clinically proven mild."

--Packaging--

 The clear bottle combined with pink and blue colourings makes it easy to see how much is left and gives as unisex an approach as is possible (although a gender-neutral colour, such as yellow or white, would be even better). However, Johnson's run into problems when trying to promote this product as a product for adults due to the safety cap (tricky to get off when you're supposed to be applying it to wet skin right after a shower or bath!). In this case, a pump-action lid would be better.

 

--Usage instructions--

Johnson's advise massaging the oil all over the body for baby soft skin - ideally into wet skin for even greater amounts of moisture to be locked in. This is not problematic aside from the packaging issue mentioned above.

--Appearance--

A clear, quite runny oil which leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

A powdery scent which is not unpleasant. The problem is that Johnson's Baby Oil is so ubiquitous that the scent is almost universally associated with babies! If the company is trying to target the product at women, they should perhaps consider adding a line of the same products with different scents - for example, a fresher or woodier scent - or indeed even a totally scentless range. However, saying this, the initial scent certainly doesn't linger, so wouldn't interfere with any perfume you may be wearing.

--Texture and consistency--

As mentioned, this oil is quite fluid, and sinks quite easily into the skin. It's not at all greasy, and its fast-acting mechanism means it's good for working women on the go.

--Effects on the skin--

Definitely locks in moisture for longer, with silker skin being noticed for days after just one application. Also makes a noticeable difference to distinctly dry or flaky skin, especially after sun exposure, and is as good for younger skin as it is for more mature skin. Truly a product for the whole family!

--Value for money--

A little of this product goes a long way, making it excellent value. However, a different dispensing mechanism would not only make it easier to use but also make it even better value, as it would reduce any wastage that may occur. The product also works well, completing the Holy Trinity of price, quality, and longevity. We'd even go as far as to say that if you used it on a regular basis (not even necessarily every day) you'd probably never get dry skin, ever. A great product to incorporate into every woman's bodycare routine.

perfect partners

24 Hour Body Lotion with Vitamin E, £3.05 

24 Hour Moisture Radiance Body Lotion with Shea & Cocoa Butters, £3.05

Baby Bedtime Oil, £2.80

Baby Softwash Extra Care, £3.35

Baby Lotion, £2.50

Skin Perfecting Oil Spray for Stretch Marks, from £9.99

Baby Soothing Naturals Nourishing Lotion, £3.35

24 Hour Moisture Hand Cream, £2.09

Moisture 2 in 1 Body Wash, £2.09

Baby Aloe Vera Oil, £3.35

Avène Soothing Eye Contour Cream

RRP: £9.50/10ml

--What does the promo say?--

"This Soothing Eye Contour Cream has been specially formulated to gently protect the most delicate part of the face. Rich in Avene Thermal Spring Water and soothing alpha-bisabolol, this light emulsion calms skin irritation, tightness and redness. Dextran sulfate also acts by relieving hypersensitive eyelids. Thanks to its formula enriched with moisturising and anti-free radical actives, this soothing care promotes hydration and protection of the eye contour area and eyelids. Paraben-free."

--Packaging--

Combines white with coral to create a soothing yet unusual colour scheme. The tube is tiny and the tapered screw-top lid is well designed - not too difficult to undo, but stays on securely when you need it to.

--Application--

On a cleansed, make-up free face, blend a tiny amount around the eye contour area. Nothing difficult about that.

--Appearance--

The pure white cream takes on an opaque appearance as soon as you start to rub and quickly disappears into nothing at all. No visible residue left on skin.

--Scent--

Just a very clean, mineral-water type scent. Nothing soapy or artificial-smelling here and definitely not a strong scent.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooth, soft and absorbs quickly. Not at all runny.

--Effects on the skin--

I bought this product because I'd had totally unexplained layers of dry skin over one eyelid for more than a week and none of the other eye creams I had in the house were able to shift it. We therefore took a trip to the pharmacy, where the pharmacist recommended this. She said that if the dry skin didn't clear up in a week I was to see a doctor. Sceptical due to the dry skin's apparently bullet-like resistance to every other eye cream under the sun, I used it without hope or agenda, but was amazed to find that a visible difference was apparent in just a day or two days of morning and night use, and that it had cleared up completely well short of the week's usage prescribed. Amazing!

--Value for money--

After my disappointment with Avene's almost completely ineffectual exfoliator, I cannot say I had had much hope in another Avène product. However, my faith in this brand has now been restored, and I would be much more willing now to try another of their products. Now it's much clearer to me why this affordable yet (at times) effective brand is so much beloved by the French.

perfect partners

Eau Thermale Ystheal + Eye Contour Cream, £17
Gentle Eye Makeup Remover, £9.50
Cicalfate Repair Cream, £7.50
Extremely Gentle Cleanser, £8
Soothing Hydrating Serum, £17