Cindy Joseph BOOM CALM

RRP: $44 for 4oz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Sarah Cross

Spa Technologies Vitamin C Moisturising Serum

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"Our bestseller, this Moisturizing Serum combines powerful Botanical Extracts and two forms of Vitamin C. Vitamin C Serum, delivers the moisture-locking properties of rich creams. Seaweed and Antioxidants stimulate collagen synthesis for firmer, healthier-looking skin."

--Packaging--
The glass bottles used by this brand are substantial, practical and sophisticated. The double metallic brand (which is a different colour depending on which product the bottle houses) is a good identifier for the brand itself, proving modern, unisex and minimalist while still standing out. The pump-action mechanism is easy to use, and also to detach for recycling purposes.

--Application--
Smooth over face and neck at night-time after cleansing.

--Appearance--
A creamy yellow (a colour which, I suspect, comes from the buriti as well as the shea) serum that in fact has the richness of a cream rather than the typical wateriness of a serum. However, it leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Again, the Amazonian superfruit, the buriti, is responsible for this serum's creamy orange-like scent. Delicious and different!

--Texture and consistency--
Rich and creamy, but sinks in instantly.

--Effects on the skin--
While I felt this was a bit too rich for my oily/combination skin type, clogging my pores a bit on my face, it did a terrific job on my neck (where the skin is more 'normal'), keeping it naturally smooth and moisturised.

--Value for money--
While seeming a bit expensive on the face of it, this product lasted me a very long time - more so than the cleanser and toner I was sent by the same company. The ingredients are also of high quality provenance and the serum's moisturising properties speak for themselves. Even though I snagged this for free, I would genuinely spend my own money on this product thanks to its natural formulation, pleasant texture, and excellent moisturisation. Based on the quality of this product, I would also be inclined to try the company's Marine Serum, which I understand is more tailored to acneic skin.

perfect partners
Laminaria Oil, £22
Luminous Eye Serum, £35
Restore Kit, £80

Fushi Cherry Seed Oil

RRP: £12 for 50ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, organic Cherry Seed oil provides natural, effective hydration. Cherry Seed oil is gorgeous emollient oil that is also rich in natural antioxidants, plus vitamins A and E. Cherry Seed oil is especially beneficial for acne-prone or inflamed skin. The vitamins and nutrients contained within the fruit are known to play an important role in collagen synthesis and skin healing processes. Yellow in colour with a hint of marzipan, the oil is abundant in oleic acid and linoleic acid, fatty acids that help restore and replenish the skin. The oil also works well as a carrier oil in aromatherapy. Add a few drops of the oil to your daily moisturiser and keep your skin ultra hydrated and to treat acne prone skin. Sourced from Malatya in central Turkey."

--Packaging--
This opaque glass bottle makes an elegant addition to any bathroom, but the plastic stopper (with a hole in it to let the oil out) is unreliable and frequently falls out. The best way to get it out is to run the opening of the bottle across the palm of your hand, keeping the bottle opening quite close to your palm at all times. Go over the entire palm of your hand twice to create a layer of oil, before rubbing into your face directly or mixing with your moisturiser.

--Application--
You can mix with moisturiser or use directly on the face. I'd perhaps recommend the former, as it may sink in more easily then (when the oil is applied alone, this takes longer).

--Appearance--
A beautiful golden oil that sinks invisibly into the skin.

--Scent--
A gorgeous and authentic aroma of marzipan. Nothing added to this! And who doesn't love a product which makes them smell like cake?

--Texture and consistency--
Not too thick itself, but does seem to take a long time to absorb. A shame.

--Effects on the skin--
As well as moisturising, this promises to reduce inflammation and benefit acneic skin. Happy to report that I have seen an improvement in my skin while using this.

--Value for money--
This compares most favourably with other facial oils on the market: Nuxe, perhaps the most famous, charges £14 for 50ml, while Weleda and Jurlique charge the same. Sanctuary, Green People and even Body Shop are even more expensive than that. I'm sure Waitrose won't mind me borrowing from their catchphrase when I say that this is a quality product, honestly priced, in spite of its flaws regarding texture and packaging. The aromatic smell gives a real boost in the morning and the results are there too. And I'm not just saying that because I was sent mine for free! Would recommend.



perfect partners
Beauty Totale for Skin, Hair and Nails, £15.26 
Thyme Tincture, £8

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

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Moisturiser

RRP:  £4.99/50ml 

--What does the promo say?--

"NEUTROGENA VISIBLY CLEAR^® Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Moisturiser is a daily facial moisturiser with a fresh fragrance that leaves skin looking beautifully clear and healthy.
1. Hydrates: the light oil-free formula provides 24hr hydration without clogging the pores. It absorbs quickly and leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft.
2. Clears: enriched with MicroClear^® technology, used daily, it helps to reduce and prevent spots and blemishes. Skin looks more smooth and even, the complexion is visibly improved.
3. Refreshes: the lightweight formula with its delicate hint of pink grapefruit quenches your skin with hydration and uplifts your senses so you look and feel fresh."

--Packaging--

Sticks with the pink-and-white theme on the tube as with the rest of the range, giving it a clear sense of calmness, grapefruit, and of belonging to a product family. Information on the tube is brief, concise and clear, and the screw-top lid is secure and easy to use.

--Application--

After using the pink grapefruit scrub and/or cleanser, rub the moisturiser over your face and neck. No need to rinse off - just let it sink in.

--Appearance--

A pale pink cream which leaves no visible traces on the skin after application.

--Scent--

Very obviously of pink grapefruit without being overbearing (although it is a synthetic fragrance according to the ingredients rather than being a natural extract). A very pleasant and awakening smell.

--Texture and consistency--

Creamy without being heavy, although it stops just short of luxurious. Sinks into skin easily; is not at all greasy.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin is visibly smoothened, brighter and clearer than before. Funnily enough I found I saw a greater improvement with this product than with the cleanser or the scrub; will need to ask the experts why...!

--Value for money--

Probably one of the most effective high street moisturisers on the market for this money for those suffering with acneic skin. While my skin has already been improving for some time, I think this product has definitely helped. Would purchase again.

perfect partners

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash, £4.94/200ml

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub,£4.95/150ml

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Cream Wash, £4.49/150ml

Philosophy Hope In A Jar

RRP: £34/56.7g

--What does the promo say?--

"Recommended for all skin types, this intensive facial moisturiser contains lactic acid to exfoliate and Beta Glucan to help give skin a healthy glow. The light texture means it's easily absorbed."

--Packaging--

Clean, light and minimalist in design and colour, using black and white to get the product's message across simply. Shame it's all made of plastic; for the price, more is perhaps expected.

--Application--

Smooth on a small amount of the product after cleansing and toning.

--Appearance--

A creamy yellow product that blends invisibly with the skin.

--Scent--

A slightly milky/creamy smell - given the presence of lactic acid, this isn't exactly surprising.

--Texture and consistency--

Creamy and luxurious; glides on and blends in effortlessly.

--Effects on the skin--

Redness is reduced, oiliness is reduced, spots don't seem to last as long, and the cream gives a really nice glow to the skin. Skin is also softened and calmed. Top stuff.

--Value for money--

This product seems to really polarise critics, with users on MakeUpAlley.com giving it as many 5-star reviews as 1-star reviews. One size therefore probably does not really fit all as the company tries to claim, and so my opinion of 'suitable for all skin types' products remains the same; I reckon I just got lucky this time. I also balked at the price when I saw it (THIRTY-FOUR QUID?! ARE YOU HAVING A GIRAFFE?!?!), but consider that if it really is effective on my poor acne-plagued skin (which, so far, it is) then it must be worth paying. The effects are also visible within even a few days of use, meaning that even the most disheartened can take something from it. Would buy again, and would encourage other acne sufferers to give it a go too - a surprise contrast to my disappointing experiences with other Philosophy products.

perfect partners

Miracle Worker Anti-Ageing Moisturiser, £46/56g

The Present Skin Perfector, £22/56.7g

The Great Mystery, £22/141.8g

The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash, £22/236ml

Hope Springs Eternal Deep Sea Revitalising Mask, £21/142g

Arbonne Sheer Finish Tinted Moisturiser with SPF15

RRP: £24/30ml
# of shades available: 6

--What does the promo say?--
"Tinted moisturiser delivers sun protection and natural-looking coverage while restoring and maintaining optimal moisture balance."

--Packaging--
The slate-grey packaging is perfectly in line with the rest of Arbonne's cosmetic range. The screw-top lid travels well, closing securely when you want it to and opening easily when you need it.

--Application--
Apply onto clean dry face, after a primer if desired. Then go out and enjoy the sun! Simple.

--Scent--
None.

--Texture and consistency--
A little bit runny perhaps, but it's overall quite a controllable product that presents no problems in this regard. Feels very light on the skin.

--Appearance--
Excellent quality coverage. A matte and natural look is provided with little or no effort. Personally, I wouldn't bother buying the foundation given that the quality of this is so high, especially for those of us needing extra coverage.

--Longevity--
Again, extremely good; lasts all day. Does not get greasy or slide off your face.

--Value for money--
What's not to like? The price is maybe a bit high but you're getting such a high-quality product for the money that not only allows your skin the space it needs to breathe but also gives it sun protection and a 'finished' look in instants. On a par with Clarins and Lancôme in terms of price, and probably exceeds them in quality, but delivers an individual, away-from-the-high-street quality that these brands do not.

perfect partners
Bronzer, £19
Sheer Pressed Powder, £25
Sheer Glow Highlighter, £29

Korres Materia Herba Moisturising Cream

RRP: €32.50/$39/£32 for 50ml
Retails at Sephora, Harvey Nichols, www.beautyexpert.com, and many other locations

--What does the promo say?--
"This lightweight moisturiser helps control oil and contains a synergetic mix of citrus, honey, betaine - a natural aminoacid - and lemon pectin that regulates skin hydration."

--Packaging--
I like, I like. The drawings on the box are immediately reminscent of old botany textbooks and the old-style typeface on the white tube immediately sends the sound of typewriters clattering through your head. The choice of colours is unisex and the tube seems to be of solid, durable quality.

--Usage instructions--
"After daily cleansing, apply to face and neck, avoiding the eye area." No problems here.

--Appearance--
No visible residue is left on the skin after use, and the cream itself has a translucent, creamy off-white (slightly yellow) appearance.

--Scent--
Perhaps oddly, I was not struck by any sort of citrus or honey scent at all, but rather was confronted with a pleasantly overwhelming smell of sage. I really could not detect any of the main ingredients at all.

--Texture/consistency--
Takes some time to sink into the skin, which I don't really like, but certainly once it has been absorbed your skin does stay silky smooth all day long. Be careful, though, to ensure that your toner has completely dried before moisturising, as otherwise the cream can almost break up on your face and come away from the skin in bits rather than being absorbed properly.

--Effects on the skin--
You certainly do get day-long silky softness and shine is reduced throughout the day. However, I felt that the shine factor was increased immediately after application and took some time to settle down; in addition to this, the product did not deliver on the main hope that I had for it: I had been hoping that it would improve the overall condition of my acneic skin, and it did not do this. Admittedly it doesn't promise to, but at this price, and with these ingredients, I did nevertheless expect that it might.

--Value for money--
If this cream were the same price as Korres' usual moisturisers (under £20) then this would definitely be an acceptable addition to the bathroom cupboard. However, when you double the figure, I start to expect miracles (or at least discernible results - or maybe that's just the "student budget" part of my brain that's still talking). While this was pleasant to use, though, I just didn't get that wow-factor feeling, either in terms of general use or in terms of overall results. A shame - but I'm still not put off trying some of Korres' other products, as they just sound divine: the gift sets in particular, as well as the pomegranate and complexion-clearing ranges, sound just irresistible.

perfect partners
Materia Herba Foam Cleanser, £20 (150ml)
Materia Herba Moisturising Eye Cream, £30 (15ml)
Materia Herba Moisturising Night Cream, £35 (50ml)
Materia Herba 3 in 1 Cleansing Emulsion, £20 (150ml)
Materia Herba Anti-Ageing Cream, £36 (30ml)
Materia Herba Anti-Ageing Eye Cream, £39 (15ml)

Radox Shower Smoothies

RRP: £2.49 for 200ml
types available: natural balance (yoghurt, honey and almond), energy therapy (ginseng, guarana and lemongrass), and soul soother (blackcurrant, camomile and cranberry)

--What does the promo say?--
"Wake up with our energising shower smoothie. It’s a luxurious blend of natural herbs and minerals that are good for your body and mind. Like ginseng and guarana to help recharge your tired body and real lemongrass for some extra zing. Just what you need to kickstart the day.

Our shower smoothies may smell good enough to drink, but please don’t. If you get some in your eyes, just rinse them well with clean water.."

--Packaging--
The clear squeezy plastic bottle with flip-top lid, is, if we're honest, pretty average. But then again, just how many ways are there to design a shower gel bottle? It's functional, easy to use, and non-leaky, so there's really no grounds for complaint. Plus, the cuddly-looking brightly-coloured Shower Smoothie logo and motif jazzes things up slightly. The only thing striking me as being slightly dubious is the 'DO NOT EAT' warning in big letters on the front label. On the back label I could understand its presence, but to have it on the front is really patronising. Frankly, if you're stupid enough to eat this, you probably deserve to die.

--Usage--
Rub all over body in shower, and rinse off. Nothing out of the ordinary here.

--Scent--
Very fruity (I have the blackcurrant one) and natural. I'd imagine that the others would be less tart and perhaps slightly sweeter. However, the scent sadly doesn't linger after showering, which surprised me.

--Texture/consistency--
The gel is creamy (although slightly watery), smooth, and a little bit gloopy without being lumpy. The blackcurrant one also contains cranberry seeds, which you'd think would provide some exfoliating power, but you can barely feel them.

--Appearance--
Brightly coloured, but not freakishly so; vaguely translucent too. On the skin, you really have to work to lather it up, and afterwards there is no visible residue.

--Longevity--
Unfortunately, the scent doesn't linger, and while it makes your skin feel soft enough, I didn't notice any other effects to differentiate this from other shower gels.

--Value for money--
This shower gel doesn't deliver anything special, which is rather a shame for Radox given all the media attention this product has received. At this price, for the same fruity goodness, I'd rather go for Original Source.

L'Oreal Re-Nutrition/Vive Pro Hydra Gloss Moisturising Shampoo

RRP: $4.99 for 13oz; €4.60/£3.29 for 250ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Omega-moisture complex infuses deep moisture & shine. Before Using Hydra Gloss Shampoo: Hair may feel very dry or dull from the distressing effects of the weather and over-processing. After Using Hydra Gloss Shampoo: Hair is deeply conditioned with essential nutrients and shines with a high gloss finish. Recommended by the hair experts at L'Oreal, Hydra Gloss with omega-moisture complex containing omega 3 & 6, royal jelly and olive oil, adds advanced moisturizers and essential nutrients to intensely condition hair. Gently cleanses while injecting intensive moisturizers. Deeply penetrates hair for lasting moisturization. Leaves hair soft, shiny and touchable."

--Packaging--
I only tried this on a trial basis, but what I can say is that the packaging is the same as the European one (white and gold, with the royal jelly motif), which I quite like. The package being sold Stateside is the one my boyfriend preferred when asked: it's a simpler, more modern design. Ipoddy. Hmm. Must be a boy thing.

--Usage--
Lather into wet hair, rinse, and repeat as necessary.

--Appearance--
The shampoo itself is very yellow (though not neon, thank God), viscous, and gloopy, but not unpleasant. Equally thankfully, the lather is white and no residue is visible in the hair after use.

--Scent--
Strangely, this smells of coconut, despite there being nothing whatsoever coconutty or coconut-related in the ingredients list. Slightly sweet too. I like the smell, but find it slightly disconcerting that it doesn't smell more of honey, especially given the lack of coconut in this product generally.

--Lather--
Excellent, and not very much of this product is needed to achieve that, though perhaps more than with a more expensive brand. The size of the circle made when you curl your index finger round to meet your thumb on the same hand probably about covers it.

--Washing it out--
Easy as. No problems here.

--How does your hair look and feel afterwards?--
The smoothness is back! And since that's definitely the main aim of this shampoo, it gets a thumbs up from me purely on that basis. Does make it frizzy or flyaway either, and a small bonus is that it really seems to bring out the best of my natural blonde hair colour. These effects are consistent throughout the day: definitely no crazy flyawayness by evening.

--Value for money--
At less than £5, this is really quite ingenious considering the effectiveness of the product. And good news - it's out in the UK!

perfect partners
L'Oreal Re-Nutrition/Vive Pro Hydra Gloss Moisturising Conditioner, prices as above
L'Oreal Re-Nutrition/Vive Pro Hydra Gloss Night Serum, £7.49 for 150ml
L'Oreal Re-Nutrition/Vive Pro Hydra Gloss Day Fluid, £4.99 for 200ml
L'Oreal Re-Nutrition/Vive Pro Hydra Gloss Replenishing Masque, £3.99

*sold under the Elsève range in France.