Skin Doctors Exfoliating Crystals

RRP: £18.99/100ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Skin Doctors present the Exfoliating Crystals; a refining scrub that utilises microencapsulated beads to deliver a powerful exfoliating action, without scratching or damaging skin. Working to buff away dead and dull skin cells, the advanced crystals minimise the appearance of visible pores, wrinkles, pigmentation and uneven skin tone, revealing brighter, smoother results.

Infused with Melaleuca Alternifolia (Australian Tea Tree Oil), known for its anti-bacterial properties, its formula helps treat infections, acne and blemishes so you can experience visibly improved, refreshed and clearer skin with every use. Skin is left radiant and velvety soft. Suitable for use on the face and body."

--Packaging--

The monochrome scheme, with a discreet band of silver above the lid, is both sophisticated and unisex. The flip-top lid is practical and easy to use. However, for obvious environmental reasons, it would be appreciated to see the brand moving away from plastic packaging in the future.

--Application--

Cleanse the face thoroughly and pat dry before rubbing a small amount of the product over the skin. Dust off the crystals with a dry face cloth. Rinse the area thoroughly and then pat dry again. Use 1-2 times a week. All very straightforward.

--Appearance--

A white paste/lotion with barely detectable white granular particles. It is emphasised on the Skin Doctors website that these are *not* microbeads (without telling us what they in fact *are*).

--Scent--

The tea tree oil is subtly detectable.

--Texture and consistency--

Satisfyingly scrubby while still feeling moisturising.

--Effects on the skin--

Mattifying and calming in the immediate instance, while improving complexion long term and giving a brightening effect.

--Value for money--

At £18.99 a pop this is in line with other premium brands such as Ren, Clarins, Clinique and Kiehls, and quality-wise compares well with them, producing clear results. Would recommend.

perfect partners

pH Balancing Cleanser, £12.99

Gamma Hydroxy, £41.99

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

Trilogy Gentle Facial Exfoliant

RRP: £21.50

--What does the promo say?--
"The fast way to a fresh new complexion with glowing results you'll see instantly, Trilogy Gentle Facial Exfoliant is a gentle, creamy treatment that removes dead skin cells and surface debris that dull your skin's appearance. Formulated with jojoba wax spheres and camellia oil to gently buff away impurities and nourishing botanical oils to reveal softer, smoother, more radiant skin, Trilogy Gentle Facial Exfoliant is an essential part of your beauty regime."

--Packaging--
The red, white and silver colour scheme is a bit spartan, but at least unisex and practical, with the flip-top plastic lid proving robust. Gives you only the information you need and nothing more - so cuts the spin and makes it easy to read.

--Application--
Massage in circular motions onto moistened skin before rinsing off and following with moisturiser. Pretty simple really.

--Appearance--
Off-white, with barely visible grains. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--
The jojoba and camellia gives a really clean, natural scent that isn't overpowering.

--Texture and consistency--
To quote Trilogy's PR, "The Trilogy range has always been and will always continue to be free of plastic microbeads." This is a great thing, as not only is the environmental impact significant, but natural exfoliants always tend to be more effective anyway. The jojoba microspheres in this product are no exception - pleasantly scrubby without irritating the skin.

--Effects on the skin--
Further to this, the brand mantra is ‘maximum effect on your skin, minimum effect on our environment’. This is borne out by this product, which sloughs off dead skin while moisturising thanks to the natural microspheres and combinations of essential oils.

--Value for money--
While at £21.50 this seems expensive, you can shop around for good deals, and furthermore, this is a high quality product which lasts a long time (a little goes a long way!). You can equally be confident in the knowledge that by buying this product and not one containing microplastics, you are helping to protect the environment too.

perfect partners
Balancing Face Lotion, £26.50
Hydrating Mist Toner, £17.50
Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+, £26.50

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Correct and Perfect Complexion Scrub

RRP: £5.99/150ml

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

 Clear skin without over-drying it.

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

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

--Packaging--

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

--Application--

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

--Appearance--

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

--Scent--

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

--Texture and consistency--

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

--Effects on the skin--

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

--Value for money--

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

perfect partners

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

Spa Technologies Flower Acid Peel

RRP: £25

--What does the promo say?--
"An anti-inflammatory concentrate of hibiscus flower and green tea acids fortified with salicylic acid for problem skin. Flower (Pyruvic) Acid peel comes in a soothing seaweed -based gel. Gradual exfoliation without irritation associated with alpha-hydroxy peels. Helps to decongest pores consistent with acne. Essential in treatment of rosacea. Allows basal cells to fully mature, strengthening the connective tissue matrix."

--Packaging--
The weight of the glass makes you feel like you're holding a higher-quality product in your hands, and the metallic banding is a thread that runs throughout the brand identity. The pump-action dispenser is convenient, and it's always nice to be able to see how much product you've got left at any given moment.

--Application--
It's recommended that you apply this at night, after cleansing, so that it has a few hours to work. You then wash your face in the morning as normal.

--Appearance--
A golden brown serum that leaves no visible residue on the face.

--Scent--
A really pleasant, naturally sweet, 'treacly' smell.

--Texture and consistency--
Neither too runny nor too sticky; however, I would definitely stick with the advice of only applying this at night, solely for the reason that when it dries it can feel a little taut on the face, as if you've applied a mask. In short, don't expect it to leave a completely smooth and absorbed finish like a moisturiser.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin does appear calmer, smoother and more radiant after use, and doesn't have the irritating qualities of many commercial peels in the short or long term.

--Value for money--
While £25 for a 30ml bottle can seem expensive, it's nothing compared to the cost of the equal number of spa treatments - one bottle does last a long time and yields good results. Great for giving yourself spa-level results at home. Would recommend.

perfect partner
Vital Energy Capsules, £25

Rockface Face & Body Scrub

 RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"New Rockface Face & Body Scrub might not be made from rock, but it does in fact contain a substance more durable than rock - a blend of crushed walnut shells and ground rice to produce this unique multitasking scrub - fine enough to exfoliate your face and rough enough to exfoliate your body."

--Packaging--
Easy to open and close even in a wet shower, and the mountain range design is a different look to other men's products.

--Application--
Use is facilitated by the fact that not much product is needed, as well as the fact that a good lather is created in the shower. Just squeeze out a small amount of product onto wet skin and you're away. Rinse after use.

--Appearance--
Translucent green with visible brown particles, with no residue left on the skin after use. Lather is white.

--Scent--
Quite masculine, but a bit cheap. Not displeasing, and slightly menthol-ish, but it's difficult to specifically identify the smell or know where it comes from based on the ingredients.

--Texture and consistency--
Quite a strong, satisfying scrub thanks to the walnut and rice the product contains. It works well on face and body, although people with more sensitive skin may find it too harsh for the face.

--Effect on the skin--
Skin is smooth and strokeable after use thanks to the jojoba as well as the exfoliating elements, with daily use not being required to maintain this effect.

--Value for money--
A fair price for what this is, and you get positive effects on the skin for the price paid. However, this would seem to corroborate the slightly superficial scent of the product, so those who normally use more expensive products may notice a difference in terms of usage experience.

perfect partners
Shave Butter, £4.99
Shave Gel, £4.25
Post-Shave Balm, £4.99
Shower Wash, £3.73
All-Weather Moisturiser, £5.49

Glo Minerals Exfoliating Lip Wand

RRP: £9

--What does the promo say?--
"Exfoliate and moisturize lips in one quick step. Jojoba and nourishing wax microcrystals combine to soften, smooth and hydrate lips. Apply throughout the day as needed to exfoliate and hydrate lips. Nourishing wax microcrystals gently slough away dry skin particles to reveal a softer, smoother lip surface then melt on contact and seep into the exfoliated surface to deliver supreme moisturization."

--Packaging--
The silver tube is sleek and futuristic, and the lid fastens securely.

--Application--
With winter on its way, I'd recommend applying this one daily, or perhaps even more frequently. Apply to lips using a brush or straight from the tube as preferred. Can be worn alone, or as an undercoat for lipstick or lip gloss.

--Appearance--
Virtually invisible. Possibly a slightly pale sheen, but nothing more.

--Scent--
None, particularly.

--Texture and consistency--
Delightfully scrubby without being rough - and thankfully, as promised, the exfoliating beads really do dissolve, meaning that you don't feel like you've just been for a walk along the beach in a windstorm.

--Effects on the lips--
Eliminates dry patches and moisturises perfectly.

--Value for money--
Again, this one was free, but is worth every penny of the £9 asking price, in my view. Trumps even my previous favourite - the £8 Body Shop Lipscuff.

perfect partners
Protective Liquid Foundation, £37
Bronze, £30.50  

Gatineau Peeling Expert Microdermabrasion Cream

RRP: £35.50/75ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Gatineau Peeling Expert Microdermabrasion Cream deeply exfoliates your skin to smooth away rough, dead skin cells, to reveal a fresh, revitalised and glowing complexion. Reveal a radiant new you with a little help from Gatineau."

--Packaging--
An elegant white and silver plastic tube that stands on a white screw cap (on some smaller tubes, the screw cap is silver). Easy to use and closes securely.

--Application--
Wet your hands and face and gently massage a small amount of the exfoliator over your face. The exfoliator can be mixed with your face wash in your palms if desired, or used alone. Wash off using a damp flannel.

--Appearance--
A white cream with no visible particles. However, on the face, a few small white particles can still be seen after rinsing.

--Scent--
None to speak of - just smells clean without being chemical. Could be likened to cotton.

--Texture and consistency--
Satisfyingly scrubby without being too abrasive; however, it's not always easy to rinse off, with some of the exfoliating bamboo beads still being left on the skin afterwards.

--Effects on the skin--
Sadly, this didn't seem to do much short-term or long-term. While skin felt softer, dry patches did not go away immediately after using, or recur less frequently over longer time periods.

--Value for money--
My tube is a smaller size, coming as part of a Gatineau gift set (which was already discounted when I bought it), so I don't feel cheated by what I paid for it. However, I would definitely be loath to pay the £35 asking price for this exfoliator. If I were going to spend £35 on an exfoliator (which is unlikely, just so you know), I'd be far more likely to go for the offerings at this price point from Ole Henriksen, Carita, or Aesop.

perfect partners
Vital Sculpt Cryo-Contouring Serum, £41.50
Floracil Eye Makeup Remover, £35/400ml
Meltaogenine Futur Plus Anti-Wrinkle Radiance Mask, £40
Gentle Silk Cleanser, £35/400ml  

Gatineau Peeling Expert Microdermabrasion Cream is also available as a trial size in the following gift sets:
Top To Toe Peel And Smooth Collection, £55
Cleanse and Peel Collection, £63
Top to Toe Collection, £74
Anti-Ageing Deep Clean and Polish Collection, £47  

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/

Cosmetics Contemplations: When the people speak

I've always been a bit of a consumer watchdog: in my student days I loved such televisual output as Don't Get Done, Get Dom, and (of course) Watchdog, and as I've got older and web users have become more vocal, I've enjoyed participating in fora such as those on the MoneySavingExpert website and reading reviews of products and services. In fact, it's surprising that I've never taken out a subscription to Which? (although I did apply for a job with them recently, so you never know - my love for what they do could soon manifest itself in other ways...). In fact, my passion for making sure the consumer was making an informed choice based on honest opinions rather than just company spiel was one of the main motivations behind me beginning to review products in the first place. The main website for reviews, although perhaps less so now with the rise and rise of the blogosphere, was and probably still is Ciao. Although it is an extremely comprehensive and detailed website which I still visit from time to time, it has less use for me since the advent of the glorious price comparison engine that is Google Shopping and there were reasons why I went over from reviewing on Ciao to blogging here which remain unchanged.

However, it still being an extremely popular website, it is always interesting to see just how far the views of its users reflect the views and habits of the general population (and, dare I say it, "experts" like myself who write about beauty regularly and are equally regularly lucky enough to have free stuff thrown in their general direction for testing). 

My first impression upon looking at the list of the best cleansers and exfoliators (as per five star rating) is that the list probably doesn't reflect the whims of the population at large - contrary to my expectations. I say this because a good half of the brands featured are, to put it bluntly, expensive. Of the remaining half the list, one of the brands (Burts Bees) is what I would call of limited availability: for the widest choice you are definitely best off looking online rather than popping to your local chemist. For Ciao users, this is perhaps not unreasonable: however, most people are not willing to trawl the net looking for a product from a less widely available brand. Of the four remaining cheaper brands, two bring us back down to earth with a bump, perhaps showing how easily conned the British public is by advertisting (as they are not brands that I would ever recommend). Olay and Ponds are of course much-beloved British high street classics, and so it is hardly any great surprise that they appear on the list as well. Another interesting feature of the list is its diversity, with all ten of the listed products being from different brands: this openmindedness, or lack of brand loyalty, is refreshing, but arguably also a trademark of the internet shopper: those of us who shop around and go through price comparison sites with a fine tooth comb are probably more likely to be curious about lots of different brands than the UK shopper who throws their moisturiser into their supermarket basket as part of the normal weekly shop. It is this diversity which also reflects the "beauty experts" quite accurately, with lots of different brands from different budgets being included, but with the list ultimately leaning towards higher-quality products.

So would the 'best face creams and treatments' list fare any better in representing the average UK consumer? The answer is perhaps yes. Only three of the ten products featured are not widely available on the high street and of these three there was only one product that I had not heard of at all - and yet even this one product is perhaps indicative of people's shopping habits, since a little digging around online revealed it to be available via a popular UK shopping channel as well as via a few web outlets. At hundreds of pounds for a pot I would expect the Freeze 24-7 Anti-Wrinkle Cream to have classier packaging, but as I previously mentioned, there are a multitude of ways in which the British public can be duped, especially if this is via the frankly superliminal means of the television shopping channel. In addition, for a cream that reportedly glows under UV light (not so good if you are a seasoned clubber), you could say it represents the buying population's slightly more eccentric side. It's comforting that the rest of the list, though, ranges from a mere £2 right up to the dizzy heights charged by Decleor, Elemis, Estee Lauder and Freeze, meaning that there really is something for everyone there - which I think is what everyone would expect and want.

The only 'mistake' in that list, in my view, is the Simple moisturiser, but hey - I suppose even the legions of web shoppers can't get it right all the time...

The lists

Best cleansers and exfoliators 

Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel

Burt's Bees Orange Essence Facial Cleanser

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Simple Soothing Toner

Philosophy Purity

Estee Lauder Perfectly Clean Splash Away Foaming Cleanser

Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 (Oily Skin)

Clearasil StayClear Skin Perfecting Wash

Olay Regenerist Cleanser Daily Thermal Skin Polisher

Ponds Cold Cream Cleanser

Best face creams and treatments

Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Clearing Moisturiser

Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream

Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser

Boots No7 Protect and Perfect Beauty Serum

Clinique Superdefense Moisturiser

Elemis Pro Collagen Marine Cream

Decleor Face Treat Aromessence Ylang Ylang Purifying Concentrate (Oily and Combination Skin)

Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimising Skin Refinisher

Olay Definity

Freeze 24-7 Anti Wrinkle Cream

Johnson & Johnson 24 Hour Exfoliating Body Wash with Shea Butter

RRP: £3

--What does the promo say?--

"JOHNSON’S^® Gentle Exfoliating Wash gently exfoliates with unique beads that melt and condition your skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth. This soft, lathering, creamy formula hydrates and pampers your skin, leaving it moisturized for 24 hours. While other exfoliating washes may feel harsh, JOHNSON'S^® Gentle Exfoliating Wash has been developed to be gentle enough for everyday use, even on sensitive skin. So every day you can enjoy light exfoliation to reveal beautifully fresh, radiant skin."

--Packaging--

Its soft, near-chocolatey colour gives the impression of luxury, with the feather illustration adding softness and the sturdy plastic flip-top lid and the bottle's ergonomic shape making the whole thing practical to use. All in all, a perfect package.

--Application--

Lather up with a little water and rub over the body, paying special attention to areas where you want to avoid ingrown hairs, such as under the arms, and then rinse off. This can be done just using your hands, but for extra exfoliating power you can always use a sponge exfoliating puff, or loofah.

--Appearance--

A translucent brownish-gold gel with faint dark exfoliating beads embedded in it. No visible residue left after use.

--Scent--

Buttery and chocolatey. Simply delicious; a sublime start to winter mornings.

--Texture and consistency--

Exfoliates well without being too harsh, and the gel, while not making a supremely creamy lather, uses what little lather it does make to its fullest advantage, providing a silky cleansing experience.

--Effects on the skin--

As well as leaving skin smooth, clean and soft, it also has an immense practical use, particularly for those who wax or epilate, as it makes significant headway in eliminating and preventing ingrown hairs. I definitely noticed the difference when I stopped using it. This definitely ticks all the right boxes.

--Value for money--

Your £3 buys you an undoubtedly perfect beauty product that pampers you to princess-like perfection while taking care of your body at the same time, so that it's in a state you're proud of. Full marks - I don't think I'd be without this in my shower now. Useful AND beautiful!

perfect partners

Johnson & Johnson 24 Hour Moisture Hand Cream, £1.99

Johnson & Johnson 24 Hour Body Lotion with Vitamin E, £2.99

Johnson & Johnson 24 Hour Moisture Radiance Body Lotion with Shea & Cocoa Butters, £2.99

Liz Earle Foot Scrub

RRP: £10.25/100ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Our new Foot Scrub gently yet intensively exfoliates hard, rough skin on your feet to leave them ultra-smooth and buffed to perfection. This hard-working scrub contains natural pumice to remove dead skin cells, softening avocado oil and wheatgerm oil rich in vitamin E plus the invigorating aromas of peppermint and rosemary essential oils."

--The packaging--

More practical than the frankly bizarre pump-action foot cream in the range, this squeezy plastic bottle sits comfortably on its lid and is easy to grip in the shower.

--Application--

Liz Earle recommend daily use on damp skin, concentrating on the balls of the feet, the heels, and between the toes.

--Appearance--

A light blue-grey colour that seems entirely natural to the product, scrubs white onto skin, and leaves nothing visible in its wake after rinsing.

--Scent--

Fits in well with the rest of the range to eliminate odour without being too clinical; the peppermint and rosemary smells are most prominent.

--Texture/consistency--

Simultaneously creamy and scrubby; provides the perfect combination in order to tackle tough skin while still pampering your feet luxuriously. Non-irritating.

--Effects on the skin--

Following the directions of daily use on damp skin showed great improvement, especially in conjunction with the companion moisturiser.

--Value for money--

£10.25 seems expensive at face value, but this stuff is packed full of natural and effective ingredients, basically fulfilling my requirement of what makes the perfect beauty product: something that is a luxurious treatment while being effective. In addition, other products in this category seem to offer much less for prices that are far more jaw-dropping: Benefit, Bliss and Jo Wood's body scrubs will all send your wallet running for the hills. Liz Earle's prices therefore seem to sit nicely between cheaper high street products that are of lesser quality, more expensive high street products that also fail to emulate it, and higher-end brands such as Biotherm, Clarins and Clinique that offer an experience similar in quality but much higher in price. And best of all? It comes in travel size as well from just £4.50. Don't hesitate to invest in this for your feet: your toes will soon thank you for it.

perfect partners

Foot Moisturiser, from £4.50

Foot Spritzer, from £4.50

Cotton Rich Socks, £4.50

AmorePacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Essentials

RRP: $50

contains: 1.0 oz Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel, 1.0 oz Treatment Toner, 0.25 oz Treatment Enzyme Peel, 1.0 oz Treatment Cleansing Foam

available at: Sephora US

--What does the promo say?--
"AmorePacific Moisture Bound Introductory Collection Refreshing Essentials for Combination and Oily Skin is a limited-edition ensemble of handy skincare must-haves. These luxurious products are all you need to make your oily skin healthy, resilient, and age-resistant. Keep your complexion youthful and glowing—at home and on-the-go!"

--Packaging--
Very plain and bland, and not in a "wow, this looks really expensive and sophisticated" way (even though it is certainly the former). The whole design just looks like it has had little to no effort and time spent on it, and the bottles themselves look like something you'd find in a hotel room. Even just looking at it, you don't feel like this is going to be worth $50, especially since the sizes of the products are very small (when I was sent this, I thought this was just the sample size, but nope - they do actually want you to pay $50 for these tiny things [they are the size of what you get in a hotel room, too]).

--Application and usage--
No problems here. The cleanser lathers up well with a little bit of water and you only need a pea-sized amount. Rub onto damp face and then rinse off. The toner, again, just needs a little dabbed onto a cotton pad and you're away - sweep over face and neck and then wait for it to dry off a little before applying the moisturiser.
The enzyme peel is a little more unusual: tip a little into your hands, perhaps at the same time as the cleanser, mix with a little bit of water, rub over your face, and then rinse off.

--Appearance--
The cleanser is a stiff, slightly opaque white cream/gel containing tiny blue exfoliating particles, and makes a white lather when mixed with water. The toner is an unusual rose pink colour, and the moisturiser is an equally unusual duck-egg blue, slightly opaque gel. None of these leave any visible residue on the skin after use. The unorthodox enzyme peel consists of a creamy yellowish powder, which washes off clear.

--Scents--
The cleanser, enzyme peel and moisturiser just smell slightly soapy - a surprise given all the good stuff they contain, such as ginseng, green tea, and bamboo, which you'd think would give the products a more distinctive smell. The toner comes up to expectations, smelling as it looks (slightly rosy).

--Texture and consistency--
All of the products are really nice to use, with the cleanser being smooth and luxurious, the enzyme peel being satisfyingly scrubby, and the toner and moisturiser proving cooling.

--Effects on the skin--
Sadly, despite all of the botanical stuff this line contains, my skin just did not like this range. I suffered breakouts and my skin has been worse while using this than it has been for a long time. In the more detailed press release I was sent, I was promised "healthy, radiant, vibrant skin" and that pores would be unclogged, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles would be reduced, and that undamaged skin would be revealed to me thanks to the enzyme peel. Unfortunately I saw none of this and was gagging to get off this and back to my usual products.

--Value for money--
As already implied in the packaging section, you do not get very much for your money in terms of product volume, although saying that, the pack will easily see you through a holiday and beyond. I do not think that the brand image correlates well with the price of the products and certainly, for me at least, the results do not either. For better value travel products, American buyers would be better off steering clear of this and going for travel sizes from Liz Earle, Clinique, or Molton Brown. If, however, you do decide that any of these products might be for you, US buyer or not, the larger sizes of the individual products are likely to provide better value for money, as well as being more widely available.

perfect partners
Intensive Vitalizing Eye Complex, $125
Lip Treatment, $35
Skin Energy Hydration Delivery System, $35
Natural Protector SPF30, $65

Kiehl's Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub

RRP: £22/200ml
available in: Pear Tree Corner, Coriander, Grapefruit, Lavender

--What does the promo say?--
"Our creamy and highly effective body scrub gently exfoliates to remove dead surface skin cells without over-drying, leaving skin feeling silky-soft, refreshed and primed for moisturisation."

--Packaging--
In typical Kiehl's style, it looks like it's stepped straight off the shelf of a nineteenth-century pharmacy. The label looks crowded, but it's simpler than it initially appears, and I like how they haven't wasted time on gimmicky images. The company has also really improved the robustness of its packaging in recent years and the flip-top lids are much stronger than they used to be.

--Application--
Visitors to the Kiehl's website are counselled as follows: "Apply a small amount to wet skin and lightly massage in an upward, circular motion. Rinse or remove with a washcloth for further exfoliation. For optimal skin effect after shower pat skin dry and immediately apply the Kiehl's body moisturizer of your choice. if contact with eyes occurs rinse immediately with water." I'd say that the body moisturising (even if not with a Kiehl's product) afterwards is necessary on some parts of the body, especially the feet, for reasons that I'll talk more about in a moment. Application and usage of this product is easy with no problems.

--Scent--
Very sweet and definitely pear-like; some might think it's a bit sickly, so it may not be for everyone. However, there are other scents available, and they're all faithful to the scents they're supposed to represent, meaning that you always get what you expect.

--Appearance--
A white cream in which the exfoliating grains are definitely visible. Doesn't lather up much on the body but leaves nothing visible once you're done.

--Texture and consistency--
Appropriately scrubby while still remaining creamy, non-irritating, and luxurious.

--Effects on the skin--
As I alluded to above, moisturisation may still be necessary after use of this scrub on especially dry areas, since it doesn't hydrate as much as the creamy texture might lead you to believe. On these really very dry areas, the scrub manages to smoothen out the dry skin without getting rid of it completely. However, on areas of the body where the skin is more 'normally' hydrated to start with, it does well in leaving skin smooth and soft.

--Value for money--
This is a good day-to-day maintenance product which is even gentle enough to use around the bikini line and under the arms to prevent ingrown hairs, but I wouldn't use it as a stand-alone treatment. If you have dry skin that really needs eliminating fast, go for something more hardcore (perhaps such as Lush's Ocean Salt) along with any top-quality moisturiser. It also won't have escaped your attention that this stuff is pretty expensive, but then again most Kiehl's stuff is. I was lucky enough to get mine in the sale at nearly 50% off, so it's worth shopping around for.

perfect partners
Pear Tree Liquid Hand Soap, £16.50
Pear Essence Oil, £21.00

Dead Sea Source Invigorating Coffee Body Scrub

RRP: £8.99/575g
retails at Boots

--What does the promo say?--
"The waters of the Dead Sea are rich with minerals and help benefit almost every skin ailment, from spots to psoriasis. The Dead Sea Source™ Invigorating Coffee Body Scrub contains marine extracts combined with Fairtrade coffee and lemongrass, basil and black pepper. The scrub leaves your skin soft to the touch and revived."

--Packaging--
Comes in an attractive kiln jar (it's kind of heavy, though, so is probably not suitable for travelling) with a warming brown and gold label that proves extraordinarily resistant to shower water (even though the jar itself isn't 100% watertight, with small amounts of water being let in - possibly from steam). Is easy to open and close, and the opening to the jar is quite big, so you can easily get your hand in there and scoop out as much as you like.

--Application--
While in the shower, scrub on to wet skin. Use on shoulders, bust, stomach, thighs and bottom. Rinse off. This is relatively easy, though if any water gets into the jar you also get a second product in the form of a sort of shower oil, which can also be rubbed onto the skin but doesn't rinse off as easily as the scrub.

--Scent--
Overwhelmingly of coffee. Basil, lemongrass, black pepper - you would never guess that all that stuff was in there. If anything, there's more of a chocolate undertone once you've got past the coffee. Yum. Definitely not for people who don't like coffee though.

--Texture/consistency--
Pleasantly scrubby; not abrasive. Don't use on your face, though.

--Appearance--
Dark, chocolatey, coffee brown; granules are quite large and visible.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin appears smoother and less cellulitey; however, around the chest area I can't say that I saw any improvement in my acne as a result. Shame.

--Value for money--
At nearly £10 this might seem initially a bit steep; however, the pot is huge and will last you literally for months. While the therapeutic value of the product is perhaps disputable, as a luxury it is simply delightful. Would definitely buy this or any other Dead Sea Source product again.

perfect partners
Invigorating Coffee Body Butter, £6.99/350ml
Invigorating Coffee Body Wash, £5.49/300ml

Yves Rocher Gestes d'Institut Radiant Complexion Treatment

RRP: £1

--What does the promo say?--
"Does your skin look dull? In 2 steps, this Radiant Complexion treatment session wakes up your skin and helps it to rediscover its beauty. The cereals with exfoliating properties, associated with quenching maple sugar, restores its visible freshness and radiance. Let your feelings guide you, and pamper your face. Your skin is awakened and deeply hydrated. It looks radiant …and so do you."

--Packaging--
A simply-designed sachet, comprising two separate sachets joined together. The design is refined and places emphasis on the two brightly-coloured images; instructions for use are concise, and the sachets are easy to detach and open. The small size and convenient structure of the packaging makes this brilliant for travel, too.

--Application--
With wet hands, rub a small amount of the top part (the exfoliant) onto a clean face. Massage into skin and then wash off. When skin is dry, apply the mask (bottom part) in a thin layer onto the skin. Leave for 15 minutes to dry, and then peel off and moisturise as normal. Nothing complicated about this.

--Appearance--
The mask is fairly non-descript; as with many other mint masks, it's a transparent dark-green gel that dries clear on the skin. The exfoliant is more interesting, combining the simultaneous impressions of oatmeal, maple syrup, sugar and sand to create an attractive and effective-looking exfoliator. No visible residues are left on skin after use.

--Scent--
The mask smells very strongly of menthol; the exfoliant has no detectable scent.

--Texture and consistency--
As you would expect from an exfoliator, this one is satisfyingly scrubby without irritating the skin, while the mask adheres to the skin well and has no lumps. It's also not too sticky and is easy to wash off of your fingers after application. Both parts of the treatment wash/peel off well.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin definitely feels (and to an extent looks) softer and more refined after use of the treatment, even if the effects do not continue long term. Pores feel and look less clogged and the skin overall looks less shiny.

--Value for money--
I don't think you'll find anyone who will argue with that price tag. The price is fair and square: you're getting a good-quality treatment that not only serves as an affordable treat for you, but which is also ingenious when it comes to travel. Furthermore, you can buy both of the products in larger sizes (which admittedly are not as good value, but Yves Rocher often has sales or offers on) if you decide you really do like them, so it's a great opportunity to test the products, too (especially since this £1 spend gives you 2-3 applications for each product). A great buy.

perfect partners
Botanical Cleansing Skin Peel, £8.70
Botanical Hydration Moisture Mask, £10.20

Lancôme Exfoliance Clarté

RRP: £25.50/100ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Brighten up lacklustre skin with this refreshing gel formula for normal and combination skin. Formulated with white wax micro-beads, ultra-fine exfoliating grains and a cocktail of Pineapple and Papaya extracts to gently slough off dull skin layers and remove impurities. Leaves the skin clean, smooth and toned for a simply radiant complexion."

--Packaging--
The pale blue squeezy tube combines Lancôme's usual sophistication with practicality and prettiness, with the dark blue dots in the background proving a nice contrast to the brand's trademark flower logo. The brand name is also embossed onto the opaque white screw-top lid, and the overall effect is very pleasing.

--Application--
Mix a little of this in your palms with your cleanser and some tepid water, and rub gently over your face with your fingertips. Remove with a damp face cloth, gently buffing as you go.

--Appearance--
Slightly unusual: as well as artificial blue exfoliating beads, the clear gel is also populated by white lumps (the wax beads that contain spot-busting salicylic acid), which don't seem to stick to the skin after you've finished using the exfoliator (sometimes exfoliating agents can be difficult to be completely washed off the skin, but it wasn't problematic here).

--Scent--
Strangely, none: I was surprised to read of the presence of pineapple and papaya, since I couldn't smell them at all.

--Texture/consistency--
While the gel is mild, refined and comforting, you also simultaneously feel that the exfoliants are really doing their job (and all with no discomfort whatsoever). It washes off easily and there is no greasy, oily or otherwise unpleasant residue left on the skin after use.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
Squeaky clean! Really like all excess dirt and oil has been properly penetrated and removed without harshness. Smoothened and retextured.

--How does your skin look afterwards?--
Having only tried this on the basis of a tiny sample, it's tricky to tell, but given the depth of cleaning mentioned above and given the inclusion of salicylic acid, it's highly probable that visible improvements would be seen over time. Dry patches are also quickly banished, and this is something that can be seen more immediately.

--Value for money--
This is a tad pricey, yes. It's the most expensive exfoliator I've ever used, clearing the next most expensive (L'Occitane Almond Apple Sweet Peel) by about £6. While its efficacy is undoubted, it's a bit expensive for me to be able to use all the time, so I'd have to make do with it as a treat. Nevertheless, this is definitely one for the Christmas wish list.

perfect partner
Hydra Intense Hydrating Gel Mask, £29.50