Melvita Organic Rose Shower Gel

RRP: €14 for 250ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Organic Rose Shower Gel is soap-free and contains all the freshness of three wild rose extracts collected by hand. This shower gel gently cleanses skin and turns into a foam with a light floral scent like a shower of petals on the body. 99% of the ingredients are natural; 10% of the ingredients are organic. Made in France; certified organic by ECOCERT. Organic Rose Shower Gel is ideal for:
• Women wanting an organic shower gel which is both gentle and lovely to use 
• Gently cleansing skin 
• Its fresh, subtle rose scent for instant well-being
• Its light foam texture
• Its sulphate-free formula
• All skin types"

--Packaging--

Mine was a travel version in a dark pink squeezy tube that stood up on its lid (as part of a Christmas gift set, the Mini Coffret Rose, available in France but not the UK). The full-size version is in an equally pretty but pale pink translucent bottle, accented by the dark pink lid, dark green Melvita logo, and botanical line drawing that emphasises the brand's valuing of natural ingredients. .

--Application--

Just lather up in the shower as usual, apply to wet skin, and rinse. Job done.

--Appearance--

Despite the pink bottle, the gel itself is clear, and leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Thanks to the use of damask rose, French rose, dog rose and sweetbriar rose (also known as eglantine), the scent of this shower gel is gorgeously intense and multilayered. Put simply, I loved it.

--Texture and consistency--

The gel foams into a fine white lather that feels luxurious on the skin, yet washes off easily when you need it to.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin feels beautifully soft after use and the scent lingers wonderfully. Reviewers on the Melvita website also report a reduction in skin redness.

--Value for money--

This makes a lovely gift (as mine was, from my sister-in-law this Christmas just past) and a luxurious addition to any bathroom. Highly recommended!

perfect partners

Organic Rose Body Milk, €15.50

Organic Wild Rose Eau De Toilette, €36

Organic Rose Soap, €5.90

Organic Rose Hand Cream, €6

Organic Rose Floral Water, from €7

Organic Rose Micellar Water, from €14.90

Organic Rose Cleansing Milk, €14.90

Organic Rose Multi-Use Balm, €11

Organic Rose Lip Balm, €6.50

Organic Rose Limited Edition Extraordinary Water, €29

Organic Rose Milky Cleansing Oil, €20.90

Organic Rose Face Mask, €19.90

Delicate Roses Gift Set, €34

Molton Brown Vintage With Elderflower Bath and Shower Gel

RRP: £22

--What does the promo say?--
"Explore the sparkling fragrance of Molton Brown's Vintage 2016 with Elderflower Bath & Shower Gel, inspired by a cool cellar of vintage cuvée. Infused with English Elderflower Extract, the luxurious body wash gently refreshes and softens skin, whilst enveloping the body with notes of uplifting Petitgrain, Grapefruit and Vetiver for a truly magical bathing experience. Housed in a limited edition bottle with a wine bottle style label. Featuring the finest ingredients from a vineyard in Champagne-Ardenne, this luxurious lotion evokes the extravagant spirit of the festive season."

--Packaging--
The detachable jingle bells near the opening are a festive delight that accentuate the glitter in the shower gel itself, which is visible through the transparent plastic bottle. The golden label is chic and in keeping with the celebratory champagne feel.

--Usage--
Press the top of the lid downwards and then squeeze the bottle to expel the shower gel. Lather up under the shower and then rub over wet skin as normal before rinsing.

--Appearance--
A translucent cream gel with gold glittery particles that leave a delicate sparkly sheen on the skin - perfect for Christmas time (yes, some of us do start thinking of our gifts in August - what of it?).

--Scent--
The vetiver grounds the scent without being overpowering, just as the grapefruit subtly lifts it, but the champagne is the dominant flavour (NB don't eat it!). Elderflower is also delicately detectable; overall, a well-balanced and sophisticated fragrance.

--Texture and consistency--
The gel is thick and luxurious without being heavy or sticky; this lathers to a fine white foam that washes off when you want it to.

--Effects on the skin--
Apart from the shine from the embedded glitter (which can last beautifully depending on how liberally you've used it in the shower), skin is left feeling soft and moisturised.

--Value for money--
At £22 this is only a little more expensive than Molton Brown's usual shower gels of the same size and would make a beautiful upscale Christmas present for anyone who's already a fan of the brand - or even someone who's a Molton Brown newbie. At the launch you were even able to personalise the label with the recipient's name, and I hope this will be available to the mass market also. A gorgeous gift with which to ring in the new year.

perfect partners
Body Lotion, £26
Single Wick Candle, £42
Festive Bauble, £12

AA Skincare Peony, Bay and Brahmi Liquid Shower and Bath Gel

RRP: £5.94 for 250ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Balancing and soothing, this antioxidant rich formula will help give your skin an added boost, leaving it feeling soft, supple and well nourished.

Containing a delicate blend of traditional Ayurvedic herbs, pure essential oils and natural ingredients. This naturally inspired shower and bath gel is designed to be non - drying for the skin and the exquisite aromas make showering a real treat!"

--Packaging--

The white and pink bottle, while traditional, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the ingredients used in this bath and shower gel. The flip-top lid of the plastic bottle opens easily when you are in the shower, yet closes securely. The flow of liquid is also such that you don't end up with a rush of product (so no wastage).

--Usage--

Lather up under the shower and rub over wet skin before rinsing off. Alternatively, squeeze into running water for luxurious bath bubbles.

--Appearance--

The gel itself is completely clear, but lathers and froths with fine white foam on contact with water. This washes off without leaving any visible residue.

--Scent--

Floral without being heavy, and yet it has a depth and complexity to the layering of its scent that make it fresh, modern and unique. The exquisite aromas promised are definitely delivered.

Texture and consistency--

The gel is light and not sticky, without being runny or watery; it holds its shape. When lathered up, the foam is fine and smooth, with small bubbles.

--Effects on the skin--

Thanks to the essential oils included in the formulation, skin is left feeling truly moisturised, and sensitive skin soothed.

--Value for money--

Thanks to the high quality of the ingredients used, I would have expected this to be far more expensive, and as little is needed to create a decent lather, one bottle would last a long time, even if used for baths instead of or in addition to showers. The complex layering of scents and refined foam texture also creates a truly luxurious experience, and even though I was sent my bottle for free by AA Skincare's PR, I would undoubtedly spend my own money on replenishing stocks.

perfect partners

Peony, Bay & Brahmi Liquid Conditioner, £5.94

Peony, Bay & Brahmi Nourishing Shampoo, £5.94

Noble Isle Lightning Oak Hair and Body Wash

RRP: £20

--What does the promo say?--
"An enduring, handsome fragrance, balancing smoky wood aromas with modern notes of crushed pepper and bergamot, enriched with toning extract of English oak."

--Packaging--
As classy as a plastic pump-action bottle can be thanks to its traditional logo and minimalist text, all embossed with an opaque finish. You also can't go wrong with it being see-through - I personally prize always being able to see how much product I have remaining.

--Application--
Lather up and rub over wet skin, or through wet hair. Rinse off when done.

--Appearance--
A sage green in the bottle, but turns white upon lathering and leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--
The website promises a mixture of bergamot, grapefruit, cardamom, clove, vetiver and sandalwood. Vetiver in particular is a very masculine fragrance, and I don't normally like it. However, in this case it's not overwhelming. None of the other scents are especially detectable; however, this could be considered the mark of a good fragrance, as it means they are all well-balanced.

--Texture and consistency--
Lathers up encouragingly and rinses out well, both from the hair and off the skin.

--Effects on the skin and hair--
Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft, and while I'm often sceptical of these products that claim to be multi-use, effects on the hair are also positive, with volume, luminosity and texture all restored.

--Value for money--
While £20 might seem pricy, this product's luxurious nature, high-quality results and multi-purpose application make it worth the money.

perfect partners
Warm and Woody Trio, £19.50
Bath and Shower Trio, £19.50
Bath and Body Gift Set, £29
Mini Love, £15
Lightning Oak Soap Bar, £15
Lightning Oak Candle and Snuffer, £39
Fragrance Sampler, £12
Deluxe Traveller, £29 

Philosophy Spiced Clementine Toddy Gift Set

RRP: £18 (currently £9 in the sale)

--What does the promo say?--
"Share seasonal spirit. Spiced clementine toddy shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath (240 ml.) and body lotion (240 ml.) warm your heart and soul during and after the shower or bath."

--Packaging--
The dotty bow decoration on the box is lovely for a gift (especially for anyone with a January birthday, as you can grab this for half price in the sale at the moment), and the bottles themselves are classic Philosophy: transparent, so you can always see how much is left, with black writing detailing yummy recipes for the foodstuff that inspired the product. The black fliptop plastic lid is stylish, practical and secure.

--Application--
Lather up the 3-in-1 product in the shower, or pour under running water. Clean your hair with it as well if you like before rinsing off. As for the body lotion, rub into slightly damp or dry skin. Easy as pie (well, toddy).

--Appearance--
The bright orange shower gel definitely doesn't stain or even create much colour, foaming to a white/light orange lather. The body lotion is just a creamy colour, leaving no residue on the skin.

--Scent--
I was a little disappointed with the bath and shower product, as it smelled a bit too masculine for me (although I can't find a specific ingredient causing this) and evoked bitter orange peel scents and general alcohol more than spice and the sweetness of orange juice. The body lotion was better for this, meaning you could even share this pack with your better half (you can swipe the body lotion, and he can have the shower gel...how romantic).

--Texture and consistency---
The gel is smooth and quite runny, without being watery or sticky. The body lotion does equally well in this regard, sinking in super-quickly and providing a luxurious experience.

--Effects on skin and hair--
Body skin and hair are left feeling amazingly smooth and soft, with hair feeling volumised and nourished. Definitely a top scorer.

--Value for money--
A little goes a long way with this stuff and you definitely get good results too. Even though it's a pain that you can't buy both products separately, they do represent good value, with this being even truer now that Philosophy's sale is on. Go and get it!

perfect partner
The Microdelivery Peel, £59

Philosophy Hot Buttered Rum Shampoo/Shower Gel/Bubble Bath

RRP: £14 for 480ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Cozy up and share a sweet moment with hot buttered rum shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath, as it cleanses and conditions skin and hair."

--Packaging--

The see-through plastic squeezy bottle lets you see the deep translucent brown colour of the gel in all its glory - the picture above really doesn't do justice to the gel's gorgeous caramel colour. This enables you to always see how much is left, and the real recipe for hot buttered rum printed on the front of the bottle in black lettering is also a bonus. My only criticism would be the distinctly un-ergonomic bottle design: at nearly half a litre, it is quite wide, meaning you can't get your hand all the way round and that this leaves you in danger of dropping the bottle in the shower. A more curved shape would therefore be more helpful.

--Application--

Lather up and massage through hair or onto wet skin. Rinse out/off when done. Have not tested in the bath yet as sadly I don't own one. Should have access to one this Christmas, though, so watch this space.

--Appearance--

Dark brown - just like freshly melted caramel. This doesn't leave any residue on the skin, however - the lather itself is white, in any case.

--Scent--

Does not smell distinctly alcoholic, which in some ways is a shame, as I was expecting something more complex and less sweet. However, I can't really complain about smelling like a freshly-made batch of butterscotch every time I shower (even though the scent sadly doesn't linger long). I'm a big baking fan, so this is still a perfect treat for me, making it a wonderful addition to the autumn and winter months.

--Texture and consistency--

The gel itself is runny but not sticky, with just the right amount of viscosity. The lather that builds up is silky and luxuriant, and washes off easily (but not before you're done). This applies to skin and hair.

--Effects on the skin and hair--

I had reservations about using this on my hair, having had poor results from a Philosophy 3-in-1 product in the past. However, this one does exactly as promised: skin is left smooth and soft, while hair is left clean, shiny and with long-lasting volume. Hair did not get greasy as quickly after using this product either, meaning hair looked good for a full extra day after use.

--Value for money--

While the initial outlay seems expensive, remember that you're getting a big bottle of a high-quality 3-in-1 product. I would definitely repurchase - although if you're looking for something with more of an alcoholic tinge to it, the offerings from Alba, Korres and Carolina Herrera all look promising.

perfect partner

Hot Buttered Rum Lip Shine, £10

Molton Brown Global Heroes

--What does the promo say?--

"London via the World
Our star performers return from exotic climes to celebrate in London, our home. Including five of our bath & shower gel stars all wrapped up in the colours they deserve.
Unite. Energise. Celebrate.
Contains 100ml sizes of:
Re-charge Black Pepper Bodywash
Relaxing Yuan Zhi Bath & Shower
Vitalising Vitamin AB+C Bath & Shower
Paradisiac Pink Pepperpod Bath & Shower
Warming Eucalyptus Bath & Shower"

--Packaging--

Each of the shower gels comes in a hard transparent plastic bottle, with a raised design towards the top of the bottle. Writing on the bottle is kept minimal, with the shade varied according to the shower gel colour. The screw-top lid is decorated with a nice silver effect that's sure to add a touch of sophistication to any bathroom. The 100ml sizes are perfect for travel - you can voyage safe in the knowledge that they won't leak on the way. They are together presented in a gold, silver and bronze gift box (although the set I was sent by Molton Brown's PR didn't come with this).

--Usage instructions--

Lather onto wet skin under the shower, or run under a flow of hot water for a sumptuous bubble bath. Relax, then rinse.

--Appearance--

Each of the gels is a different colour in keeping with its theme and ingredients. Harmoniously, the Vitamin AB+C gel is a cheerful yellow, while the pepper version is a dark brown, almost verging on black. The pink pepperpod version speaks for itself, while the eucalyptus shower gel is green. None of these leave any visible residue on the skin after rinsing off the white lather that's created.

--Scent--

The gels smell exactly as would be expected from their ingredients, and are rich, high-quality, and natural incarnations of these to boot. The only perhaps less known scent - the yuan zhi root, for the "London via China" shower gel - smells, rest assured, deliciously fragrant, striking an ideal balance between sweet and musky, and is more intense than its body cream counterpart, which I also tested recently. The Vitamin AB+C gel and eucalyptus gel are to be commended for their vibrancy, and the pepper gels for their spice. With the exception of the black pepper gel, which smells decidedly masculine, all are quite unisex and can be used by the whole family.

--Texture and consistency--

I have already mentioned the fine yet luxurious white foam that's created by lathering up under the shower (I don't have a bath enabling me to test it in this form, though - boo hiss). Neither too runny nor too viscous, and definitely not sticky, the gels make it easy to get a good lather going and deliver a consistently pleasant performance as a result. Easy to rinse.

--Value for money--

At £36 for 5 shower gels, you have a convenient travel product that allows you to try out 5 different scents for £7.20 each. Such prices are on a par with high-end brands as diverse as Hugo Boss, Green People and Korres, which I feel is a good price point in the sense of reflecting the quality of the ingredients used and overall product result. However, as all of these gels are available in 300ml formats at £18 each, it's clear that the full sizes are better value (at the travel/gift rate of £7.20 per 100ml, you'd be paying around £21.50 for a 300ml bottle instead). It's easy, though, to see why the premium is there: the extra packaging involved in gift or travel sets has to be paid for somehow, and consumers are usually willing to pay extra for the luxury of choice or convenience. This kit fulfils those functions easily - but once you've chosen the scent you prefer, definitely go for the full-size bottle for optimal value and keep your eyes open for Molton Brown's sales.

perfect partners

Women's Stowaway 2012, £46

Women's Traveller 2012, £40 

Frequent Traveller 2012, £40

Radiant Lili-pili Hairwash, currently £9 in the sale

Lulu's Time Bomb Rescue Mission Miracle Mineral Bath

RRP: £24/500ml

available for purchase on QVC or via www.lulusplace.co.uk

--What does the promo say?--

"Relax, Recharge and Recover.....fast! This unique formula combines the stress-relieving powers of essential oils and extracts with the soothing powers of magnesium salts. Containing a polyionic complex with the breakthrough MagnEASE hybrid, you can relax and de-stress as you bathe…helping to soak away the aches and pains of tense muscles and stiff joints. Infused with a blend of essential oils and extracts including arnica, echinacea, St. John's wort, comfrey and calendula, a warm bath will also help soften, smooth and hydrate your skin as you soothe sore, tense muscles."

--Packaging--

The chunky see-through bottle and its metal screw-top lid provide a great modern look that's great for bathtime. The green of the liquid contrasts nicely with the pink writing on the bottle, making it really stand out from the whites, blacks and greys of the rest of Lulu's Time Bomb range. My only criticism would be that while pouring out the liquid is fine for bathing, it should come with a detachable pump so that it can also be used for showering.

--Application--

 Pour generously into bath water and soak in it for as long as needed to relieve aches and pains. Can also be used to lather up quickly under the shower.

--Appearance--

The bright green fluid (which doesn't look lurid, by the way - in fact it's refreshing and more reminiscent of spearmint and spas) in the bottle is strangely completely clear and translucent in the hand, lathering up to a delicate white foam. No visible residue is left on the skin after use.

--Scent--

Beautifully refreshing and unisex, with the arnica in particular coming through strongly. Perfect for revival and relaxation.

--Texture and consistency--

Quite runny and liquidy, which means that some can be lost when pouring it into your hand. The foam it lathers up to is light yet creamy and skin is left feeling soft as a result.

--Value for money-- 

This mineral bath provides an invigorating experience and the generously-sized bottle should last a long time. However, I'm still not sure that I was expecting it to cost £24, although this is in line with the prices of the majority of the Time Bomb range and is probably also influenced by Lulu's celebrity status. In addition, the natural ingredients used also make it a positive purchase for many, and it seems to sit appropriately among the brands also selling 500ml shower gels for this price (namely L'Occitane, Elizabeth Arden, Borghese and Kiehl's). I would definitely consider purchasing this as a gift for others, especially alongside the Time Bomb Survival Kit, which also seems to be excellent value - and would perhaps consider it as a treat for me too.

perfect partners

Time Bomb Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream, from £7.75

Time Bomb Take-Off Time Polishing Pads, £5.50

Time Bomb Eye R&R Makeup Remover Pads, £4.00

Time Bomb Blast To The Past Dermabrasion, £25.00

Time Bomb Glory Days Day Cream, from £8.00

Time Bomb Smart Balm Eye Cream, from £21.00

Time Bomb Flashback Night Cream, from £9.50

Time Bomb Youth Juice Secret Oil, £30.75

Time Bomb Youth Explosion Day Serum, from £13.00

Time Bomb Derm Warfare Night Serum, from £15.00

Time Bomb Trouble Shooter Firming Cream, £33.00

Time Bomb Killer Filler Wrinkle Compound, £12.25

Time Bomb Survival Kit, £25.50

I Love...Juiced Up Blackcurrant Shower Gel

RRP: £2.05/500ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Take a whopping big bite out of life! My delicious aroma is bursting with super juicy blackcurrants all ready to explode into action, leaving you with your very own bite size portion of happiness!"

--Packaging--

Rocks the funky look with black and white basics contrasting with the purple gel, which can be seen through the plastic flip-top bottle. The bottle is also extremely sizeable (so not great for travel purposes perhaps) but carries lively and easily understandable text which engages you while telling you all you need to know, making you feel really excited about using it.

--Application--

Just lather up over wet skin while in the shower, then rinse off when ready. Easy peasy lemon squeezy (or should that be blackcurrant squeezy?).

--Appearance--

Exactly the colour of the dark purple throat tablets that you can get, matching up well with the blackcurrant idea. Doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin, frothing up instead into an off-white lather that's easy to rinse. You can also use it as a bubble bath, although not having a bath at home means that opportunities to test the product's credentials on this score have been limited.

--Scent--

While perhaps slightly artificial-smelling, it's definitely intense and not at all unpleasant. Plus, you can tell it's a blackcurrant scent straight away - no second-guessing required here, as is true of all the I Love...products (although unfortunately the packaging doesn't tell us anything about how this rich scent is achieved - just putting 'parfum' or 'fragrance' is not helpful!).

--Texture and consistency--

This was definitely my least favourite part of the product. Rather than being creamy and luxurious, it was viscous and gel-like - even to the point of slipping back INSIDE the bottle if you didn't squeeze hard enough. All fine on the skin once you get lathering - the foam generated is fine yet spreads well. But still. EW to the first bit.

--Longevity--

I can't say I experienced long-lasting scent or softness on the skin with this product as compared to the other gel I'm using at present (Caudalie Pêche de Vigne). But at £2 for a massive bottle, what do you expect?

--Value for money--

It's possible that they would need to sort out the texture of this before I would purchase again - even though the smell is great, I didn't have *as* positive an experience with this product as I did with I Love...'s Lemons & Limes lip gloss and body cream. But that definitely hasn't put me off the range completely: it's a vibrant budget option without a doubt, and with scents in the range such as Strawberries & Milkshake, Vanilla & Ice Cream, and Raspberry & Blackberry still left to try, who could resist?!

*set to be exclusive to Superdrug, you'll have to keep your eyes peeled; no sign in store or online of it yet...*

Caudalie Vinotherapie Vine Peach Shower Gel

RRP: £7.65/200ml from www.feelunique.com

--What does the promo say?--

"Caudalie Vinotherapie Vine Peach Shower Gel is for those who want to transform their shower into a moment of total relaxation. Its intoxicating fragrance blends the sweetness of vine peach and almond milk with the invigorating freshness of mint leaves. Soap and sodium laureth sulfate free, with a plant-derived base, this shower gel respects skin’s natural pH balance."*

 --Packaging--

 We are promised what the name suggests in a pink-orange plastic tube, which stands alone in the shower. Complemented by dark green script, it fulfils the image we expect of the product and fits in well with the rest of the Caudalie catalogue.

--Application--

Simply lather up in the shower and spread over wet skin before rinsing off.

--Appearance--

A pale pink gel that doesn't appear lurid or unnatural in any way (despite the apparent lack of actual peach in the product). Works up beautifully into a white lather that doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Beautiful, rich and natural-smelling; completely conforms with what we expect, in the most positive of ways (although all we're told about it in the ingredients list is "Parfum (Fragrance)". Grrr.).

--Texture and consistency--

A smooth, creamy and totally luxurious lather; nothing thin or cheap about this. Truly adds to the idea of a spa experience at home.

--Effects on the skin--

With aloe vera and coconut oil I'd be surprised if it had no effect at all; it certainly made my skin feel baby-soft for hours when used in conjunction with the Nourishing Body Lotion.

--Value for money--

This product is a delight to use and it definitely restored my faith in the Caudalie empire, as hitherto I had not been terribly impressed with their offerings (particularly for skincare). Fits well within its category for the price (in this bracket you can find products by Korres, Roger and Gallet, and Neal's Yard, to name but a few) and definitely gives you a touch of luxury at home.

perfect partners

Caudalie Vine Body Butter, £16.95 (FeelUnique.com)

Caudalie Bath Trio Set, £20.50 (Debenhams)

Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa in a Bag, £33.15 (FeelUnique.com)

Caudalie Nourishing Body Lotion, £21.50 (FeelUnique.com)

Bath and Body Works Paris Amour Shower Gel

RRP: £9.75/295ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Bath and Body Works Shower Gel Paris Amour Shower Gel. A luxurious shower gel with moisturizing Aloe Vera and nourishing Vitamin E that gently clean, soften and fragrance your skin with Paris Amour of French tulips, apple blossoms and sparkling pink champagne."

--Packaging--

The brand's characteristic ergonomically designed curved bottle is complemented this time around by a pink bow and pastel colour design, complete with an Eiffel Tower in the background. Definitely feminine! The push-down lid is practical and easy to use, and labelling is thankfully kept to a minimum - I can't stand it when products are labelled to within an inch of their lives, leaving you without any way of seeing how much of the product is left.

--Application--

Under the shower, lather over your body, keeping away from eyes, mouth, and all other obvious places. Rinse off at leisure.

--Appearance--

The gel is pale pink and lathers into a pale white foam; no visible residue is left on the body after use.

--Scent--

It never ceases to amaze me at how companies manage to achieve the effect they want without using the actual ingredients concerned. Even though this gel does not, of course, contain pink champagne, tulips, or apple, that is strangely exactly what is detected by our noses. (Although who knows whether that's because it's what we've been TOLD to expect?) The shower gel smells fruity and floral with a slight 'fizziness'. Bizarrely, the aloe vera is not at all detectable.

--Texture and consistency--

The gel itself is perhaps a little too viscous for my liking, but it lathers nicely into a foam that's satisfyingly thick (although not absurdly so).

--Longevity--

Sadly, the smell does not linger. While the gel makes body skin feel soft, I'd say the effect of this is no more and no less than any other gel, in spite of the presence of aloe vera and vitamin E.

--Value for money--

While Bath and Body Works products always make great gifts thanks to their tantalising and unusual scent combinations and concepts, and offer a practical purpose combined with a luxurious experience, I can see how some people may begin to find this a bit on the expensive side, especially considering that so few natural ingredients go towards making up the scent itself. Some may consider Ecosoapia's hand and body wash products to offer a more viable alternative - they're £5 for the same amount of product, and are organic, meaning that the origins of the scent are probably more easily traceable. However, Ecosoapia's offerings are fairly standard (peppermint, almond, rose geranium...), whereas Bath and Body Works inject truly new and different fragrances into today's market. What tradeoff/s are you willing to accept? Only you can decide.

perfect partners

Paris Amour Body Mist, £10.45

Paris Amour Body Lotion, £10.15

Paris Amour Body Cream, £10.50

Paris Amour Body Butter, £11.50

Body Shop Mango Bath Shower Gel

--What does the promo say?--

"This soap-free shower gel contains real mango seed oil and has a deliciously exotic scent."

--Packaging--

Coming in a range of sizes (250ml, 400ml, and, as part of the Mango Mini Gift Cube, 60ml for travel) means that there is something to suit your every need. The plastic flip top style bottle, while potentially fragile, in fact travels well without leakage. The see-throughness is also handy; I hate not knowing how much of a product is left. Information on the bottle tells you everything you need to know without being overcrowded.

--Application--

Lather up under the shower, or in the bath, and rub all over the body, keeping it away from the face, eyes, and other sensitive areas, and then rinse off. Easy AS.

--Appearance--

A slightly viscous and translucent yellowy-orange gel which replicate the mango's natural colour faithfully. It lathers into a fine white foam which rinses off easily (but not too easily now), leaving no visible residue on the body.

--Scent--

As with the colour, the scent is very accurate - just what you would hope for in a mango shower gel. Rich and natural-smelling, even though the natural mango extract is supplemented by artificial fragrances and limonene.

--Texture and consistency--

Has the reliability that we have all come to expect from the Body Shop - lathers up instantly and favourably, is not sticky at all, and washes off well when you want it to. Good work.

--Effects on the skin--

It seems to leave skin soft enough, but nothing exceptional. The same could be said of the smell; it smells amazing when you're actually in the shower, but doesn't last for hours on the skin.

--Value for money--

Scaling only to the dizzy heights of £5.50 even for the largest size, I'd say you're buying into a good deal here, as even the dinky 60ml bottle lasts ages, and this shower gel delivers a pleasurable truly multi-sensory experience all round. However, if you're more concerned about buying something more environmentally conscious, you could always try the shower gels by Faith In Nature, which are similarly priced and seem to contain a higher proportion of natural ingredients. Nevertheless, I'm not planning on giving up on Body Shop completely - its range of new and unusual scents is virtually unrivalled elsewhere, and with such temptations on offer as moringa, dewberry, arber, kistna and bakula, who could possibly resist?

perfect partners

Mango Soap, from £2

Mango Body Butter, from £12.50

Mango Mini Gift Cube, from £5

Mango Lip Butter, from £4
Mango Body Scrub, from £12.50

Born Lippy Mango and Peach Lip Balm, from £2

Mango Whip Body Lotion, from £8

Liz Earle Energising Body Wash

RRP: £11 for 200ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Start your day with this revitalising all-over wash. Pure plant extracts and gentle foaming agents from corn and coconut clean and refresh, while sweet orange and 8 pure essential oils delicately fragrance your skin. Use Energising Body Wash to gently cleanse the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and invigorated. The naturally active ingredients include a revitalising blend of damask rose flower water and pure essential oils."

 --Packaging--

The rounded design is reminiscent of a stone that has been smoothened into shape by the sea's waves, giving a great natural feel to the product. The sophisticated fine lines of the design mean that it wouldn't even look out of place in a spa - meaning that if it's good enough for that, then it's good enough for you. The plastic flip-top lid always closes securely, too, and the product doesn't collect in the bottom - thus eliminating wastage.

--Application--

The Liz Earle website advises: "Massage a generous amount onto wet skin over the body and rinse away thoroughly. Follow with Energising Body Scrub and Energising Hip & Thigh Gel. Common sense precautions: Pregnant women may wish to seek advice from their GP before using aromatherapy-based products." I'd add to this the idea of rubbing the gel in your hands a little bit before smoothing it over your body, as it warms up a little in your hands as you do so and gives you a bit of extra lather before you begin, too.

--Appearance--

Unlike its body scrub cousin, this product is not a dark orange colour but rather a see-through pale yellow gel. Does not leave any visible residue on the body after rinsing, and is easily worked into a white lather.

--Texture and consistency--

The warming sensation in the hands when lathering up is always nice, and I never ceased to be amazed by the quality of the lather in the Liz Earle shower gels: who says eco-friendly products can't be just as good (or indeed better)?! The gel is smooth, thick and luxurious and glides effortlessly over skin before washing off easily when you want it to go.

--Scent--

Again, the orange oil is predominant in this, but we are given the feeling of something more complex at play in the background.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin is left smooth, soft and calm, and if it isn't my imagination, I have also seen some improvement in the acne on my arms, shoulders and chest during use. Here's hoping it's not all just an illusion.

--Value for money--

As with the body scrub, the price tag can seem a lot to shell out. However, this genuinely is the perfect product, which not only cleanses and softens skin but also has the ability to make your bathroom feel suspiciously like a professional spa. What more could you ask for? 

If you still feel you can't quite stretch to this, however, the only comparable equivalent at a lower price is probably found chez Weleda - another long-time expert in essential oils.

perfect partners

Energising Body Lotion, £16.50 (150ml)

Energising Body Scrub, £12.75 (200ml)

Energising Hip & Thigh Gel, £21.45 (200ml)

Body Try-Me Kit, £18.30

Bath and Body Works Lemongrass Cardamom Shower Gel

RRP: $13 for 10 fl.oz.

--What does the promo say?--
"Just relax. Lemongrass essential oil enhances clarity. Cardamom essential Oil helps soothe the mind. This nourishing body wash contains green tea extract to help keep skin looking younger and healthier."

--Packaging--
A nice contrast from the Lemongrass Cardamom Body Lotion, but still visibly part of the Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy range, the shower gel uses a similar style of label, but this time on a clear rather than a green plastic bottle, to create a sophisticated and useable result.

--Usage--
Very easy - just lather up whenever you're in the shower or bath, massage over body, and then rinse off.

--Appearance--
A transparent, slightly yellowy gel.

--Scent--
The citrus element comes through even more strongly than with the body lotion in the range, but it's not lemon - it definitely has something more sophisticated to it. Lemongrass definitely a good choice, but I still wished that I could smell the cardamom more.

--Texture/consistency--
That of your average shower gel: gloopy and viscous, but not sticky. It lathers well, though, creating a light film of bubbles that is easy to wash off.

--Effects on skin--
Makes skin soft, but the scent barely lingers - a couple of hours after showering, it's gone.

--Value for money--
While it's nice enough, for this money I prefer the body lotion, and for other shower gels in this price bracket, I'd prefer one by Caudalie, Escada, or, ironically, Crabtree & Evelyn.

perfect partners
Lemongrass Cardamom Body Lotion, $13
Lemongrass Cardamom Body Mist, $15
Lemongrass Cardamom Pillow Mist, $10

Thierry Mugler Innocent Secret Crystal Shower Gel

RRP: £21/200ml from www.escentual.com

--What does the promo say?--
"A delectable new fruity fresh fragrance that sparkles with charm and daring sensuality. Mouthwatering and mischievous, it wets the appetite for what lurks underneath seeming innocence. An enticing mix of citrus and sun-drenched fruits with delicate, dewy petals and a luscious praline swirl."

--Packaging--
A small pale pink tube, funked up by a black flip top lid and the Thierry Mugler star. The only irritating thing about it is that the nozzle is slightly inset compared to the rest of the lid, making it difficult to make contact with your fingers as well as resulting in excess gel spills all around it. The lid closes securely, though, so there should be no leakages while travelling.

--Application--
Lather up and rub over wet body during shower or bathtime before rinsing off.

--Appearance--
A pale rose-pink gel with no sparkles, shimmer, or other unnecessary hooha. This turns into delicate off-white bubbles that leave no visible residue on the skin after being washed off.

--Scent--
Lives up almost completely to the description provided in the promotional material: there is a light duskiness, but the fruitiness packs a powerful punch too. Infuses the shower with its intensity, making for a pleasurable showering experience. On the skin, it is lifted to something that's completely wearable for sunny days. Only thing missing is the "praline swirl" that's talked about, but I don't think that this really leaves a gaping hole in the shower gel's concept. The innocent floweriness gives way easily to the punchy fruit secret before fusing into an overall veil of youth, femininity and summer. Surprising and sweet, it completely fits with the Thierry Mugler and Victoria's Secret brands.

--Texture/consistency--
Lovely smooth gel - so light that it feels like water. Very little viscosity, but still completely controllable. A high quality gel.

--Longevity--
It didn't last for as long as I would have liked it to (not sure if it even made it to lunchtime), but after the intensity of the shower experience, it's entirely possible that after a while you just stop smelling it anyway, with it only being really perceptible to other people.

--Value for money--
This is undeniably expensive. However, you're buying into a high end brand, so it is to an extent only to be expected (especially given that said product is on its way off the shelves completely). You might need to ebay or Christmas/birthday-list it, but it's definitely a great and unusual addition to any girl's shower.

perfect partners
Thierry Mugler Innocent Secret Delicate Body Lotion, £23/200ml
Thierry Mugler Innocent Secret Eau de Toilette Spray, £29/50ml

also available at: www.amazon.co.uk, Macy's. EDT still available also at Victoria's Secret.

Liz Earle Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash

RRP: £10.50/200ml bottle. Also available in 100ml (£7.50) and 30ml (£4.25).

--What does the promo say?--
"Wash daily with this divinely scented body wash. With naturally derived foaming agents plus soothing organic oats and yarrow, it leaves every skin type fresh, soft and smooth."

--Packaging--
The tiniest available body wash is in a squeezy tube with a screw-top lid, whereas the larger sizes look like they're made from harder, thicker plastic (and it's difficult to tell whether that's a screw-top or flip-top lid in the picture). In any case, it appears that all of the packaging looks the same apart from this. It evokes calm blue oceans rather than orange flowers, but nevertheless would look nice in anyone's bathroom as well as fitting in nicely with the Liz Earle concept.

--Application--
As usual really: rub onto wet body while showering or bathing, work up a lather, and then rinse off.

--Scent--
Exactly what it says on the bottle: the orange scent comes through just divinely.

--Appearance--
The body wash itself is a runny transparent gel. A light white foam is created during use that leaves no visible residue on the skin once washed away.

--Texture/consistency--
The gel is irresistibly smooth and the bubbles appear almost immediately once you start using it. The bubbles also easily rival any artificial shower gel and stay on your body for as long as you want them to while still washing off easily.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
I've never really had a problem with dry body skin, so can't really report any change there (since my body skin seems to regulate itself fairly well on its own). However, it is a fairly gentle body wash, so can believe that it would soothe sensitive skins (unless, of course, you happen to be sensitive to essential oils).

--Longevity--
Skin feels clean, soft and smooth both short and long term. Sadly, the scent doesn't really linger for long after washing (barely an hour).

--Value for money--
While this is on the expensive side for a shower gel, it really is divine to use and I love the natural foaming agents (it's mostly soap tree bark as far as I understand). The citrusy yet perfumed smell wakes you up gently and the texture means that the gel glides over your body with the greatest of care. Would definitely buy again.

perfect partner
Orange Flower Hand Wash, from £4.25