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

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

Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Born In Brooklyn Aromatherapy Brown Sugar Scrub

RRP: $20, only via www.borninbrooklynskincare.com
variants available: Coconut & Mango, Pomegranate, Tangerine & Lemongrass, Kiwi & Melon

--What does the promo say?--
"Born in Brooklyn is famous for its fabulous and timeless Aromatherapy Brown Sugar Scrub line.  These scrubs can be used on face and body and they come in a scrumptious variety! The Aromatherapy Brown Sugar uses African Brown Sugar and a touch of Dead Sea Salt from Israel to slough off unwanted dead and dry skin from your face and body. This scrub is perfect for year round use - pampering dry skin in the winter and keeping you glowing in your shorts during the summer. Jojoba, Avocado, Sweet Almond and Coconut oils are absorbed into your skin with each and every use.  Rub gently in a circular motion on dry skin as soon as you hop in the shower.  Rinse and shower as usual.  When you're done, your skin will be smooth, incredibly soft and silky. NO NEED FOR LOTION, just pat dry and go!"

--Packaging--
A basic plastic pot and lid with a distinctly homemade-looking sticker. To be honest, glass seems more luxurious even if it is a little less practical - and when people are spending $20, I think they want a little luxury. More serious, though, is the fact that this doesn't come with a little scoop or anything to help mix the scrub or get it out of the pot. Having one would reduce wastage and mess significantly.

--Application--
Massage into wet skin while in the bath or shower, then rinse off. Can be used on face or body.

--Appearance--
A brown lump of sugar/salt mixture, swimming in a sea of natural oils. Happily, it breaks up quite easily with your fingers so that you can mix it with the oil. However, a scoop or mini spatula would still be easier.

--Scent--
The scent I own, Spicy Pumpkin, is now defunct, but can still be purchased from the Dead Sea Salt 'n' Scrub collection and the bath oil range. However, rest assured it still smells like exactly what it says, which augurs well for the other scents available.

--Texture and consistency--
Strikes a perfect balance between scrubbiness and moisture, with the oil sinking beautifully into the skin, meaning there's not necessarily a need to moisturise separately after use.

--Effects on the skin--
Effectively sends dead skin packing, with the results visible from the very first use. Skin is also left soft and feeling moisturised.

--Value for money--
$20 can initially seem pricey. However, the pot is generously sized, so it should last a long time, and the product itself is effective, ticking all the boxes for luxury as well as utility. Plus, the $20 appears to include shipping when a dummy purchase is run through the website, making it even better value. Would buy again.

perfect partners
Moisturizing After Bath Oil, $10
Dead Sea Salt Soak 'n' Scrub, $20

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  

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

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