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

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 

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 

JML Pedi Pro Deluxe

RRP: £19.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Pedi Pro Deluxe is a professional pedicure treatment that fits in the palm of your hand. This electronic personal bodycare system has a high-speed rotating head, with hundreds of ultra fine micro-crystals. The head quickly, but gently, removes dead and hard calloused skin, while exfoliating and rejuvenating your feet. The result? Silky smooth, soft soles that feel like they've just stepped out of the salon. Pedi Pro Deluxe has 2 different speed settings, and comes with buffing pads that will give your feet the perfect finishing touch. Skin shavings collect in the in-built storage tray, so there's absolutely no mess. Safe and easy to use, Pedi Pro Deluxe is the perfect at home salon solution to dry cracked skin on your feet, toes and heels."

--Packaging--

The ergonomic design of the appliance means it sits very well in your hand, and while large (probably the size of your hand!) it's easy to hold. The hot pink plastic means it seems to be very much aimed at women, so even though it's superficial, bringing it out in other colours, such as black, could help it reach a wider market. While it's not always easy to fit all the parts together initially, the appliance is easy to operate thanks to a switch with three settings (full blast, half strength, and off). All of the blades and accessories can be stored with the appliance in its accompanying hot pink drawstring bag.

--Usage instructions--

Push the switch to half strength initially until you get more of a feel for how the appliance works. While the whirring and buzzing does sound terrifying at first, when you put the spinning blade to the soles of your feet it really is as promised: just a gentle buffing away of dead skin akin to the procedures and equipment used by professional podiatrists. Use on dry feet only (i.e. not when you've just stepped out of the shower!) and you may also find it helpful to use it while standing in the shower: while the appliance itself will catch most of the dead skin, some excess does fall outside of this area.

--Effects on the feet--

Just as it says on the tin, dead skin (even really thick layers of it) is gently but quickly buffed away.

--Recommendations for improvement--

This appliance runs on batteries, and I prefer mains-powered appliances, so would prefer a version of the product that plugs into the wall to recharge, even if this makes the product more expensive. I'd also recommend that a version of the product is released that is more like a pen shape (or, alternatively, that an attachment for the current product is trialled), as this is also what's used by podiatrists to get to the sides of the toes and in between toes more easily.

--Value for money--

A great value electrical appliance that does exactly what it promises, is near-equivalent to equipment used by professional podiatrists, is affordable, and is an excellent step up from JML's previous product on this theme, the Ped Egg. Brava!

perfect partner

Pedi Pro Deluxe Replacement Pads, £2.99

Akileine Regenerating Cream for Very Dry Feet

RRP: £5.25/50ml; £10.25/150ml (www.akileine.co.uk)

--What does the promo say?--
"Made of shea butter and horse-chestnut extract, this cream intensively moisturizes, nourishes, smoothes and protects dehydrated, dry keratinised and rough skin. It prevents the formation of calluses and gives back the skin's suppleness while maintaining its natural pH."

--Packaging--
Akileine cleverly but simply distinguish between different foot care needs using different bright colours. The range for dry feet is bright blue. No softly-softly pastel approach here; this is a company that knows what it does, what it wants to achieve, and how to get it - fast. The screw-top lid is easy to remove when you need it, but stays secure when you don't.

--Application--
Rub into clean dry feet, not forgetting to get right in between your toes, and rub in until fully absorbed. Nothing tricky about this - the cream is luxurious but fast-absorbing.

--Scent--
Shea butter is detectable but not prominent; the arnica used in the product is more obvious. Despite being packed with chestnut and peanut there is no real nutty odour.

--Appearance--
A white cream that rubs invisibly into skin.

--Texture and consistency--
Perfect in my eyes: rubs in quickly and well in spite of its thickness. Luxurious, creamy, and not at all runny or sticky. A joy to use.

--Effects on the skin--
Clears up dry body skin better than any other cream I have tried, including prescription stuff. That's on very hard layers of skin, too. Well impressed - these guys are definitely foot specialists.

--Value for money--
It's arguably not the cheapest cream out there - at £10.25 for 150ml, you're in the same realms as brands such as L'Occitane. Nevertheless, it's still effective and affordable - what more could you want? I would definitely buy again.

perfect partners
Hydra Defense Balm, from £7.50
Softening Lotion for Dry Legs and Feet, from £7.25
Foot Peeling Creme, £10.25
Foot File, £6.95 

JML Pampered Toes

RRP: £9.99/pair

--What does the promo say?--

"When you look in the mirror what do you see? Your face? Your body? What about your feet? Being constantly on the go, no-one considers the daily pressures and tensions your feet are subject to. They particularly suffer when crammed into high heels, shoved into pumps or wedged into sandals. Don't ignore them - use Pampered Toes to stretch and strengthen them! Pampered Toes are a plastic toe stretching device that helps to revive and condition cramped feet....[I]nspired by yoga exercises for your feet[,] the device helps to increase circulation and stretch your tendons. It makes exercising your tootsies as easy as watching TV. When life runs you off your feet, take a few minutes to relax with Pampered Toes."

--Packaging--

See-through plastic packaging and clear no-nonsense titling helps the product to make immediate impact. However, it is not easy to open and there is one big CON: once opened, even as carefully as possible, the Pampered Toes are left with no form of more permanent packaging, such as a carry case or storage device. The reason why this is so annoying will come later...

--Usage instructions--

We are advised by JML to "simply slip them over the tops of [the] feet". This seems fairly easy at the outset, with there being one hole in the "ladder" for each toe. However, this is slightly reliant on your feet being a certain shape or size: my little toes are ridiculously small and piggy and so only just barely fit into the hole meant for them, even with the plastic "ladder" being fully wedged down between my toes. Perhaps these need to come in different sizes?

--Appearance--

These are a pleasant pale pink, and also come in blue. Of course you look stupid with your toes poking out of them, but I think by now we girls are used to looking stupid in the name of beauty (designer shoes, face masks, pore strips...). A more obvious up side is that it really doesn't take very long: just 10 or 15 minutes for your feet to feel more relaxed.

--Texture/consistency--

This is why the fact of these not having their own box or storage facility is extremely annoying: the gel from which these are made is not exactly sticky (and in fact, to the contrary, their softness, coolness and pliability makes them feel extremely pleasant on the feet), they do seem to attract dust and hair, meaning you will basically need to wash them every time you want to use them, or keep them in a Ziploc bag. This is definitely something that could do with improving - the prospect of washing mine is extremely offputting (although admittedly it doesn't help that I defied the health and safety warnings on the packaging and also walked around while wearing them).

--Effects on the feet--

There seem to be a lot of medical (or at least holistic or therapeutic) terminology and meaning attached to this product, which seems to on immediate sight lack any verification by a recognised health professional (by "recognised" I mean someone that the general public would recognise, such as Embarrassing Bodies' Dr Christian Jessen). It would therefore need a doctor to tell me whether these really did prevent hammer toes, poor circulation or bunions, stretch my tendons or strengthen my toes, as claimed by the product's PR. However, this much is obvious: it is, for whatever reasons, a very relaxing experience: feet really do feel less stressed and tense after use.

--Value for money--

I'd really want an endorsement from some kind of health professional before I made any judgement on the perceived physical benefits of this product. However, for a relaxing spa-style experience I would definitely recommend it to make you feel like you're walking on air - they just need to give the poor things a home of their own to make the experience completely hassle-free. Now, where's my Enya CD, incense sticks and face mask...?

perfect partners

Ped Egg, £9.99

Snuggie, £24.99 for 2

Circulation Enhancer, £149.99

Deluxe Bath Spa, £59.99

Liz Earle Foot Spritzer

RRP: £7/75ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Spritz your feet, legs and ankles with a cooling and invigorating burst of 9 essential oils including rosemary, spearmint and peppermint. This fast-drying spray fights odour-causing bacteria to help keep skin fresh. Available from 18th May to 5th September 2010, while stocks last."

--Packaging--
Fits in very well not only with the Liz Earle brand as a whole but also with the rest of the footcare range, with its simple blue styling. The spray is easy to use and does not jam.

--Application--
Spray onto legs, feet and ankles whenever they are feeling hot or tired.

--Appearance--
A clear spray which is invisible on the feet, which is quite a feat given how many foot sprays leave a powdery residue behind.

--Scent--
The predominant scents are the mint and rosemary, although it's nice to know that there are so many other good things in the spray too (the other oils help to soften skin, soothe aches and pains, calm stress, and tone the skin).

--Texture and consistency--
The spray is non-irritating in spite of the strong mint smell and the high content of essential oils. Incidentally, the spray does not feel oily at all.

--Effects on the skin--
The downside of the spray not being oily at all, despite it being composed primarily of essential oils, is that it is no substitute for other foot treatments: if your feet are dry, you will still need to use creams and scrubs. The spray is intended as a complementary product to these rather than as a replacement.

--Value for money--
The majority of foot sprays on the market are medicinal, with the prices of many of them approaching or even exceeding the price of the Liz Earle product. Very few foot sprays are intended as a pure luxury, and this product is perhaps unique in that it does both. Affordable, luxurious and high quality, it's definitely worth having for the summer months - but it's also limited edition, so get your mitts on it while stocks last.

perfect partners
Foot Scrub, from £4.50
Foot Repair Moisturiser, from £4.50
Cotton Rich Socks, £4.50

Liz Earle Foot Repair Moisturiser

RRP: from £4.50/15ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Our refreshing peppermint-scented Foot Repair Moisturiser uses a blend of shea butter, skin-softening wheatgerm oil and avocado oil to intensively moisturise the driest of skins. Best of all, it sinks in fast so won't leave feet feeling greasy."

--Packaging--
The cool blue is lovely and, as usual, in terms of information on the tube, the company keeps it simple while still telling you everything that you need to know. However, the positive comments stop there: the company was probably trying to be clever and innovative with the incorporated pump action thing at the end of the tube, but it's totally nonsensical. The pump action seems to lead to a lot of air being trapped inside it, meaning that you can be going swimmingly one minute only to be pumping futilely the next, waiting for more lotion to struggle its way out.
[A spokesperson from Liz Earle, Laura Allard, adds the following advice, which I have not yet tried, but will do: "We would recommend that the pump is stored upright, on its lid, to ensure that the product is dispensed smoothly, and that the product is also dispensed in an upright position. If these measures do not work and you still continue to experience problems with the pump then please do let me know, and we will pass your concerns on to our product development team." So if you have problems with the pump too, feel free to comment about it here!]

--Application--
When the pump action is behaving itself, pump/squeeze out some lotion onto your feet (8-10 pumps for really dry feet; about half this if you're just maintaining already smooth feet) and then either rub your feet together or use your hands to massage the lotion in.

--Appearance--
A white, quite stiff lotion that doesn't leave any visible residue on skin.

--Scent--
The peppermint smell is the most obvious in this conglomerate of scents, and it's lovely and refreshing.

--Texture and consistency--
Sinks in quickly as promised and is not at all lumpy. Easy to rub in and does not leave hands or feet feeling greasy.

--Effects on the skin--
Improvement is almost certain, although perhaps don't expect perfection.

--Value for money--
As usual, Liz Earle has done well to provide an affordable travel size. The 100ml full size is £12.25, which isn't so bad for a luxurious and natural product. However, for a real miracle, spend a few pence more on the company's Superbalm, which will leave you scraping your jaw off the floor.

perfect partners
Foot Scrub, £4.50-£10.25
Cotton-rich socks, £4.50
Foot Spritzer, £7.00

Lush Stepping Stone Foot Scrub

RRP: £2.75/65 grams

--What does the promo say?--
"Everyone needs a Stepping Stone after an arduous day with your foot to the pedal. The green foot has the zesty You’ve Been Mangoed fragrance and punishing pumice to scrub away the rigours of life. Jojoba oil will moisturise dry skin without leaving them greasy and sea salt will treat them to plentiful minerals."

--Packaging--
As with many Lush products, this comes with minimal packaging - this time, a recyclable plastic wrap. The bad news is that this doesn't protect the product at all, so if you order online, chances are it will arrive broken into a few pieces. This also means that storing it is pretty tricky: I'd recommend buying one of Lush's larger tins (e.g. the one recommended for Buffy) so that you can easily store and access it in the shower.

--Application and usage--
Wet the feet, scrub on a little of this, massage into the feet and then rinse off. Turns the water a cool green colour :) Is easy to rinse and does not leave your hands with any sort of Shrek-like tinge.

--Appearance--
Formed into the shape of a foot, this might be worn down or battered a little by the time you receive it if using Lush's online ordering service. A nice natural-looking (not luminous) green, and the pumice particles are clearly visible.

--Scent--
The dominant smell here does come from the citrus elements and the lemongrass that's included; makes for a zesty and enlivening shower.

--Texture and consistency--
This has got to be just about the tamest exfoliator I have ever used (short of Avène's poor efforts) - it is extremely gentle and so could be good for those of you with sensitive skin or for those of you looking to just maintain smooth feet. However, it is also extremely crumbly and does melt and fizz under the shower water quite quickly, so perhaps it is better to break off the amount you wish to use so that the entirety of the product doesn't just disintegrate in your hand.

--Effects on the skin--
As was perhaps implied in the above remarks, as a treatment for dry hard skin this is too gentle to be effective. Probably better as a general maintenance product for those of you who already have smooth feet.

--Value for money--
At £2.75 this is one of Lush's cheaper products, and is probably an efficacious day-to-day maintenance product. However, if you are looking for a treatment, you will need something more heavy-duty, such as Lush's Ocean Salt, which is more expensive but also gives far more positive results.

perfect partners
Sugar Scrub, £2.60/100 grams
You've Been Mangoed Bath Melt, £2.80/30 grams
Avobath Bath Ballistic, £2.90/180 grams

Lush Volcano Foot Mask

RRP: £4.95/125 grams

--What does the promo say?--
"For feet which emit toxic gases! This thick effective mask has clays to draw out deep-down-dirt, fresh papaya and lemon for cleansing, deodorising tomatoes, astringent herbal decoctions and anti-fungal essential oils."

--Packaging--
Standard Lush style giving the effect of chalk on a blackboard. Pot fully recyclable.

--Application--
Smother your feet in this stuff, wrap them in cling film, leave for 10 minutes, and then massage into your feet before rinsing off. This is pretty easy - some others who have used this product have mentioned to me that they've found it difficult to rinse it all off, but I have never found this. I've also found the cling film to be an optional step, as the product seems to work perfectly well without it, but I can imagine that it would optimise the product's effectiveness if you did use it (plus I guess that would mean you could still walk around the house if you wanted or needed to while it was doing its thing).

--Appearance--
Slightly resembles porridge, mixed with clay. A grey-brown, very thick, cream-meets-Plasticine kind of foot mask. Once it is on your feet, it looks like you've been walking around in clay. I find it washes off fine afetr use.

--Scent--
A strong cinnamon smell is apparent, which can also quite cling to your hands if you don't wash them properly with soap after rinsing the mask from your feet.

--Texture and consistency--
Very thick but still spreadable. If you needed to revive it at all or make it more pliable, a spot of water should do the trick.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin is smoothened and less hard and feet are less stinky. WONDER.

--Value for money--
I got a bit done over on the price of this as I bought it in France, where it's jacked up to nearly €8. However, I'd say you'll easily get 10+ uses from one pot as you don't need to apply an especially thick layer each time, so the value for money is actually pretty good (even at €8 a pot). The effects on the feet are also tangible - there's something pretty nice about spending money on a product that works. Would recommend this by a country mile; it's a long time since I've been this pleased with a Lush product.

perfect partners
T for Toes Foot Powder, £6.10
Fair Trade Foot Lotion, £7.95
Pied de Pepper Foot Lotion, £6.55

JML Ped Egg

RRP: £9.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Hot-step your way to beautifully smooth soles! Original PedEgg from JML is the ultimate foot care treatment that’s taking the nation by storm. Its precision engineered with 135 stainless steel micro files to gently remove calluses and dead skin. With PedEgg you get that incredible, super-soft look and feel that everyone loves. Forget expensive pedicures! It’s a compact and cost effective solution to help rid dry, cracked skin on your feet. Safe and easy to use, this precision exfoliating treatment will transform the skin on your heels and toes, making it caressably smooth and irresistible to the touch. The unique egg shape not only looks great, but is ergonomically designed to fit perfectly into the palm of your hand for easy and convenient use. Best of all, PedEgg collects all the skin shavings in a convenient storage compartment, allowing you to use it anywhere with no mess. Emery pads are also included to buff your way to a baby-soft finish."

--Packaging--
The promotional materials are all true: it's compact, practical, and has many different uses to cover most possible needs. There is a lid to close off the microfiles when you're not using the Ped Egg, there is a compartment below to catch dry skin, there are emery strips to use for maintenance once you've got rid of the worst of the dry skin, and the egg shape is definitely easy to hold in your hand. However, unless you plan on defying gravity while you do this, some dry skin does still annoyingly go onto the floor (even though most of it does go into the Ped Egg, so I'd still recommend doing this over the shower floor or even the toilet to minimise mess. The egg shape does also prevent you from smoothing off skin between toes, since it isn't really thin enough for this. The fact that the microfiles look like nothing more than a glorified cheese grater is slightly alarming, but it's easy enough to get over the appearance of them and move on.

--Usage--
As per the enclosed instructions, you must be very careful. While the Ped Egg is easy enough to use, it is imperative to keep checking the condition of the skin after every stroke. Because it is so easy to use, it's equally easy to get a bit devil-may-care and keep rubbing away at your feet with it without checking the skin (I've manage to make my big toe bleed twice because I wasn't careful enough - oops). Slow but steady wins the race and all that.

--Texture/consistency--
It is definitely gentle with there being no pain or irritation (unless you go too far, that is - see above).

--Effectiveness--
Dry skin is reduced significantly along with any itching that this may have also brought with it. This is not just a short-term effect, either; after a couple of uses, you may find that you don't have to use it again for really quite some time, especially if you're using the Ped Egg in conjunction with a foot cream.

--Value for money--
The efficacy of this appliance cannot be disputed - I have seen worse, less long-lasting results after some very expensive pedicures. While you certainly have to be careful with it, this is the case with many household and beauty appliances, and it's a surefire way to get your feet looking good for the summer. Even though they need to work out a way to minimise mess, this is an indispensable product that won't need replacing anything like as regularly as a normal foot file. Thumbs firmly up.

Boots Deep Moisturising Foot Cream

RRP: £3.86 for 100ml pot

--What does the promo say?--
"A soothing, medicated and antiseptic foot cream with natural extracts of mint, lavender and marshmallow to nourish and soften hard dry skin. Suitable for all skin types. Lanolin free."

--Packaging--
A slightly-smaller-than-palm-size glass pot, which allows you to see the green lotion within. Simple green label detailing the key ingredients and with a clearly-placed Boots logo. White plastic screw-top lid. It's a bit big to take in your hand baggage on holiday, but it would be easy enough to decant out what you need. If you did want to take it on holiday, the lid closes securely and there are no problems with leakage.

--Application--
Slather onto dry feet and rub in thoroughly. Wear moisturising socks to make absorption more effective if desired. Unfortunately the cream does not absorb really quickly as compared to its Body Shop and Efasit competitors.

--Appearance--
A pale mint green colour that perfectly matches the label and evokes the key ingredients. Nicely done. On the feet there is no visible residue.

--Scent--
The lavender and mint combine really nicely to create a unique fusion scent, although both scents are discernible separately if you concentrate hard enough. It's a little disappointing that the sweetness of the marshmallow isn't really detectable, but I suspect it's more there for softness and smoothness than for the scent, which is fair enough.

--Texture--
A bit too runny for me really, although not to the point of unmanageability. I think it's because of its runniness that it doesn't absorb too well, which is a bit of a shame. I also found it slightly greasy to rub in.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
Even with the help of moisturising socks, I wouldn't say it's as effective as creams I've used in the past. It does moisturise feet a little bit, but there just isn't the wow factor and repeated applications are definitely needed more than with the other creams I've used.

--Longevity--
No/few noticeable long-term effects.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
While it does smooth out hard skin, the effects are so short-term that the repeated applications hardly seem worth it. The addition of marshmallow also puzzles me: why put it in there if it will have no effect? According to wikipedia (the fount of all knowledge, of course), mint and lavender have proven antiseptic and medicinal qualities, while marshmallow has none. So is it just to seduce customers with images of softness and bounciness? Who knows? However, as promised, this product contains no lanolin, making this product suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

--Value for money--
While you can't argue with the price, it's no good to have a product at a lower price if it doesn't stand up to its competitors. Sorry Boots.

Avon Footworks Moisturising Socks

RRP: £4 (one size fits all)

--What does the promo say?--
"Team up these lavish treats for twice the delight - massage on the luxurious cream then wear the moisturising socks to intensify the treatment! (Socks 92% cotton, 8% elastane)"

--Packaging--
These socks come in their own delightful little stripy plastic travel pouch, which is a really nice touch. Think they probably come wrapped in cellophane or something when new as well (it's been a while since I bought mine so memory is slightly hazy...).

--Usage--
Pretty simple really - massage into your feet whatever cream you want or need, whether medicinal or luxury, pop on the socks and let them work their magic while you walk around the house or while you sleep.

--Appearance--
I apologise for the picture I've had to use for this entry, it really is awful and cheesy. The picture in the catalogue is much better - the socks are white, and it appears that the pink design on the bottom is a recent addition. They've also apparently made another inferior change - the 'old style' socks, the ones I bought just a few months ago, have a sort of v-shape on the top of the foot, kind of like pop socks/trainer socks, which just looks a bit cooler than the ankle sock style in the picture. The socks also get dirty quite quickly. Shame.

--Texture--
The socks themselves are very soft and because of the high levels of cotton, they won't irritate your feet at all. Hoorah.

--Fabric quality--
First of all, I don't believe the one-size-fits-all claim. While I think the elastane would stretch nicely for the larger foot (up to a women's size 8 I'm guessing), these socks would probably be seriously baggy on a smaller foot. I'm a UK size 6 and these socks really sag on my heels (meaning they come off really easily during the night as well, even though they don't fall off if I'm walking around them during the day). They would probably, then, best suit women of a UK size 5-8 foot. Any smaller and they'll probably fall off, any bigger and they probably won't fit. Beyond that, their shape and size doesn't change during washing (good thing), and as already mentioned, they're kind to your feet too.

--Efficacy--
These socks really do their stuff, both medicinally and in terms of luxury. Recently I had a bit of a case of athlete's foot on one foot, while my other foot was fine. I slathered the normal foot in Body Shop Body Butter and popped on the sock, while on the other foot I did the same but with athlete's foot cream. A few hours of walking around the house later and BOTH feet were perfectly soft and smooth. I kid you not. Athlete's foot = gone. Definitely much more effective than the usual rubbing into the skin and hoping for the best.

--Value for money--
These socks are of course reusable, and despite the slight sagginess and general non-fulfilment of the one size fits all claim, they really do their stuff and restore your feet to soft tootsie heaven. Brill.

perfect partner
Foot and Elbow Cream with AHA, £4 (75ml)

Whittard Foot Soothers

RRP: £2 for 4 tea bags

--What does the promo say?--
"Four jumbo teabags filled with a soothing blend of herbal teas, scented with lemongrass and peppermint. To help soothe your tired feet!"

--Packaging--
A cheerful peppermint green cardboard packet houses the four teabags. It's decorated with flowers, a distinctly-feminine foot and the classic Whittard logo. All very lovely. The packet is easy to open, and provided you don't rip off the sellotape sealing it with too much aplomb, you should be able to reseal it again too.

--Directions for use--
1) Pour warm water into a bowl or foot bath. 2) Add a foot soothers teabag and allow to brew for five minutes (NB - when removing, make sure you have a bowl handy to chuck the teabag in for disposal). 3) Dip your feet in, sit back, relax and enjoy.

--Appearance--
When infused, the 'tea' is a yellow-ish brown colour. Not deeply attractive.

--Scent--
The lemongrass scent is extremely prominent - could barely smell the peppermint at all.

--Longevity--
While you are only meant to infuse the teabag for five minutes, this is more than enough and it infuses the water well. The lemongrass also helps to deodorise your feet, which is a nice effect.

--How do your feet feel afterwards?--
Soft and relaxed. Scrub with a foot file and moisturise afterwards for maximum smooth-footedness.

--Value for money--
Excellent - especially seeing as at present you can buy the pack of 4 teabags for a mere 100 of your English pennies. Go, citizens, go!

--Other comments--
I didn't realise Whittard had extended into health and beauty until I received these, but it's a very logical connection given that their hot drinks promote luxury and well-being. Good work.

perfect partners
Bathtub Teabags, £3.50 for 4 (currently £1.25 in the January sales)
Eyebag Tea, £3 for 4 pairs (currently £1 in the sales)

*edit, Oct 2008: now rereleased as Fleur Foot Soothers, £3.50 for 4

Body Shop Peppermint Smoothing Pumice Foot Scrub

RRP: £5.00/100ml
(also available as part of the Feet Treat Petite, £10, which includes Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub 15 ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion 60 ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray 50 ml, Mini File A Foot and Foot Shaped Toe Dividers; and available also as part of the Feet Treat Complete, £16, which includes Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion 125ml, Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub 100ml, Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray 100ml, File A Foot & Footsie Roller)

--Packaging--
A round blue pot with a teal footprint design gracing the lid, with the Body Shop logo and all the info in white, easy-to-read font. Young, funky-looking design. Tells you everything you need to know on the lid.

--What does the promo say?--
"Cleanse and polish your tootsies pretty with this gel-based potion that feels great after a long walk."

--Application--
Scoop the scrub out of the pot with your fingers and apply to your feet. Massage into your feet using your hands or a pumice stone for as long as you want and wash off.

--Appearance--
Grey, sludgy, slightly jelly-like, looks like wet sand. You can see the pumice granules straight away.

--Scent--
You can smell the peppermint straight away. It's strong, but not overpowering.

--Texture--
Rough. And scrubby. But not painful. As you might expect from a scrub. It's exfoliating, smoothing and soothing.

--Lather--
Some, but not too much.

--Is it easy to wash off?--
Yes.

--How does it make your skin feel afterwards?--
Lovely and smooth. I only began using it a week ago and it's already made a huuuuuge difference to my dry, cracked heels (with everyday usage). I've been following it up with the Peppermint Cooling Lotion, also made by Body Shop, for even greater smoothness...

--Value for money--
I got my pot as part of the Feet Treat Petite set, and while I was initially a little disappointed with the runtiness of the pot, I wasn't counting on how fast acting it is, and now I would undoubtedly buy a full size pot (keeping the smaller pot, so that I can decant some of the stuff into it for travel!).

perfect partners (all from Body Shop):
foot file, £4.50
terracotta pumice, £3
peppermint cooling foot lotion, £8 for 250ml
peppermint cooling foot spray, £5 for 100ml
peppermint cooling foot soak, £7 for 200ml
peppermint cooling leg gel, £5 for 125ml
peppermint cooling foot rescue treatment, £9 for 100ml