Avène TriAcnéal Treatment Cream

RRP: £23 for 30ml

--What does the promo say?--
"TriAcnéal is a non-greasy emulsion which helps eliminate severe imperfections. After 2 months of use, the number of spots is reduced and scars are visibly smoother. Efectiose® enables targeted action on the mediators responsible for the irritation observed in the problems of skin subject to severe imperfections. Retinaldehyde helps regulate keratinisation disorders, hence preventing thickening of the skin and formation of blackheads. Glycolic acid, a powerful exfoliant, has a peeling effect upon the surface of the skin. Paraben free."

--Packaging--
Avène's characteristic white and coral colour scheme continues to please, being simultaneously summery, cheerful, unusual, adult, and unisex. The squeezy tube is also elegant, but the incredibly tapered nozzle seems ultimately pointless: since most sufferers of severe acne will be applying this all over the skin, it's frustrating to only be able to squeeze the lotion out in minuscule amounts. Nonetheless, this is only a small issue.

--Application--
Avène recommends applying this only in the evening, but I find it works equally well in the morning, especially if you mix it with your normal moisturiser.

--Appearance--
A golden cream with an almost nacreous look to it, making it feel like a real luxury to use, rather than just an ordinary clinical acne-fighting product. Fades invisibly into skin.

--Scent--
Nothing specific is detectable; but it definitely doesn't smell alcoholic or chemical, which is good, and which can often be a problem with products for problem skin.

--Texture and consistency--
A rather stiff cream that mollifies slightly when rubbed between the hands. Does not feel dry, tight or sticky on the skin once applied, but doesn't quite have the baby-soft smoothness of a traditional moisturiser either, so you don't want to neglect using your usual moisturiser in addition (or even better, the Cleanance option offered by Avène).

--Effects on the skin--
Did seem to diminish acne, but my skin still felt like an oil slick by the end of the day. However, I chalk this up to another line I've been testing concurrently; I have every confidence that if I were using the full complement of Avène's Cleanance range alongside, this wouldn't be a problem.

--Value for money--
Admittedly, at £23 this is more expensive than I expected it to be. However, the results are good, and one tube seems to go a very long way (even if you're being a bit renegade and using it twice a day instead of only once, ahem).  However, I'd definitely repurchase this as part of a full-on Cleanance plan of attack once my free tube from Avène's PR runs out. To be recommended for its luxurious appearance and texture, as well as its encouraging results.

perfect partners
Cleanance Soapless Gel Cleanser, £11
Cleanance Cleansing Water, £16
Cleanance Toner, £11
Cleanance Emulsion, £12
Cleanance K, £11
Cleanance Mask, £15

The Breakdown of Acne Breakouts

Acne is sadly a common problem - not just for teens but also for adults. In this modern world of ours, it's difficult to know what causes it. Hormones? Diet? Pollution? Skincare routines? Something else? My own skin story is here; the latest evolution of this saga has been a visit to a dermatologist, where they've suggested Roaccutane, and I'm considering whether or not to go through with it.

Luckily, this handy infographic from Advanced Dermatology can help to break down symptoms and possible treatments. Maybe it could help some of you - so I've agreed to post it here. Feel free to let me know your experiences and views in the comments!

Lacura Clear Effect Daily Facial Gel Wash

RRP: £2.99

--What does the promo say?--
"This new facial wash gently and thoroughly removes impurities and make-up to reduce shine and greasiness. Including magnolia extract and BioEcolia this gentle wash is formulated for daily use to help protect and strengthen the natural and biological defence system of the skin, leaving a clear fresh complexion."

 --Packaging--
The transparent plastic bottle means that the blue gel is easily visible, giving a bright and cooling effect (plus, it's always handy to be able to see how much product remains). The flip top lid is also durable and practical.

--Application--
Lather up and apply to face before rinsing off. Use twice a day. Nothing difficult about this.

--Appearance--
The blue gel doesn't lather up much, but it does create a white film that washes off easily.

--Scent--
Clean without being clinical, floral or chemical.

--Texture and consistency--
A little gel goes a long way, so don't take too much - a 5p sized amount will do your whole face. The gel glides over the skin easily, and as mentioned, can be washed off without difficulty.

--Effects on the skin--
Sadly, only a small improvement in skin condition was noted. 

--Value for money--
Cheap is all very well, but only if you get results. It won't be a bad thing in my book if Aldi doesn't bring back this Special Buy - but if you really want to give it a go, try hunting on eBay.

perfect partners
Soothing Night Cream, £2.99
Tinted Day Cream, £2.99
Mattifying Moisturiser, £2.99
3 in 1 Cleanser, £2.99

Bare Escentuals Prime Time Oil Control Foundation Primer

RRP: £19

--What does the promo say?--
"Put an end to midday shininess. Designed for oily, sensitive, and problem-prone skin, bareMinerals Prime Time Oil Control Foundation Primer is clinically proven to control excess shine. Apply this silicone- and oil-free primer prior to your bareMinerals SPF15 Foundation for evenly textured, shine-free coverage all day."

--Packaging--
An unassuming white pump action bottle with grey lettering. Not exactly attention-grabbing; definitely functional first and foremost.

--Application--
Rub onto clean dry face. Getting the right amount is a slight problem as this dries very quickly, meaning you need to remember exactly where you've applied it and waste time getting more out of the bottle to apply to places you haven't done yet; OR you pump out too much and end up applying it to your neck as well.

--Appearance--
A perfectly clear gel. On the face, this is invisible.

--Scent--
Scent-free.

--Texture and consistency--
Feels smooth on the fingers and when rubbing into the face, but has a slightly tacky and gritty finish; it also makes the skin feel slightly tight, like you have layered something onto your face rather than applying something that absorbs seamlessly.

--Effects on the skin--
In fairness, this does do exactly what it says it does: it controls oiliness brilliantly, and I think I even noticed a small improvement in my skin while using this product.

--Value for money--
Even if this product does do just what it promises, they have to sort that texture out to make this a more pleasant experience, especially for a £19 price tag (OK, so it's often on offer, meaning you frequently don't have to pay £19, but still). I'll be looking elsewhere next time.

perfect partners
READY SPF15 Touch Up Veil, £22
Advanced Protection SPF20 Moisturiser Sheer Tint, £27
Redness Remedy, £27
SPF20 Correcting Concealer, £21
SPF15 Matte Foundation, £25 

Clean and Clear Exfoliating Daily Wash

RRP: £2.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Clean & Clear® Exfoliating Daily Wash contains gentle micro-beads for effective cleansing.

Formulated to effectively remove dirt, oil and dead skin cells that can block pores and lead to spots and blackheads. Its exfoliating action will leave your skin beautifully smooth and clear."

--Packaging--
The ergonomically-designed tube is curved at the top and slopes in at the bottom for an easy grip, and the blue and white fadeout design is attractive and unisex. The flip top lid is secure and eliminates wastage, and stands independently next to your sink with no problems.

--Application--
Lather up and rub over damp skin before rinsing off. Rinsing off isn't always easy though as the exfoliating beads can stick.

--Appearance--
A cloudy white gel with brighter white, but tiny, exfoliating beads. Occasionally the exfoliating beads can stick to the skin even after rinsing, giving the skin a slightly gritty and sticky feeling.

--Scent--
Slightly too masculine for my liking, although I can't tell which ingredient is giving it this quality.

--Texture and consistency--
While satisfyingly scrubby to use without being irritating, the problem comes after rinsing, as mentioned above, since the exfoliating beads tend to stick.

--Effects on the skin--
While skin is noticeably softened from the use of this product, I ultimately didn't notice an improvement in skin condition regarding spots. A real shame as this could have the potential to be an affordable and effective product for many.

--Value for money--
Not expensive - but didn't work for me.

perfect partners
Daily Essentials Deep Cleansing Lotion, £2
Daily Essentials Dual Action Moisturiser, £3.50

Clean and Clear Advantage Spot Treatment Gel

RRP: £2.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Clean & Clear® Advantage Spot Treatment Gel is clinically proven to start to clear spots after only 4 hours. The unique formula containing spot-fighting ingredients quickly rebalances the level of oil, helps fight problems causing bacteria and effectively purifies the skin all without irritating or over drying. After 4 hours, spot size and redness are noticeably reduced."

--Packaging--
The sleek silver and navy tube is unisex and discreet, dispensing the product evenly with each use.

--Application--
Apply directly to spots after cleansing and moisturising. Do not rinse.

 --Appearance--
A completely clear gel which stays invisible on the skin once applied.

--Scent--
Does not smell clinical or chemical; you could even say it's slightly fruity (could that be the moss rose or atlas cedar at work?).

--Texture and consistency--
Can separate slightly if it hasn't been used for a while, into a clear liquid and white gel. However, normally, this should take the form of a completely clear gel which rubs quickly and easily into the skin, with no stickiness left behind. This is an advantage that it has over its nearest market competitors.

--Effects on the skin--
Immediately upon application, there is a cooling feeling (perhaps due to the witch hazel) which makes you feel like this is really working. Sadly, I noticed next to no difference in the frequency with which spots appeared, or the speed at which existing spots went away.

--Value for money--
While not expensive, I did not find that this did anything for me. However, it's possible that it may work for others, so you haven't got much to lose by having a go, especially as one tube lasts quite a long time.

perfect partners
Advantage Fast Action Daily Wash, £2
Advantage Spot Control Kit, £13.99

Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Vit A

RRP: £15.95/60 capsules

--What does the promo say?--

"By feeding skin internally with vitamin A you can dramatically increase the results you get from topical skincare. Skin Vit A contains optimum levels of retinyl palmitate to normalise skin, boost collagen and increase natural moisture levels."

--Packaging--

Most supplements come in bottles, so I'm loving the pouch format, which seems as protective yet more robust for travel. It's easily resealable and the white and blue colour scheme makes it unisex too. The image of the capsules as depicted on the sachet is also accurate, and the back of the pack shows all the required information without being too wordy.

--Usage instructions--

Take 1-2 capsules per day with food. Easy peasy - especially if you already take medication, such as the contraceptive pill. Those who don't normally take medication may find it trickier to remember to take these, however.

--Appearance--

The capsules are a dull grey-brown colour and appear to be made of plastic. The join between the two capsule halves is quite visible and I think the two halves would be quite easy to take apart if necessary. The capsules are not too large, though, so aren't daunting to take on first sight.

--Scent and taste--

Perhaps slightly plasticky, but nothing really serious. They certainly don't taste disgusting at all and go down easily and tastelessly with water or juice.

--Texture and consistency--

The capsules are not grainy or too large, and so slide down easily with fluid.

--Effects on the skin--

While I experienced slight dryness during my trial period, I did ultimately also notice a decrease in my acne, and the dryness is easily controlled with a good moisturiser. For me, I noticed a more positive effect when taking two capsules a day rather than just one.

--Value for money--

Due to taking two capsules a day, my supply lasted one month, but if you were to find that one capsule a day is efficient enough, the pack would last you two months, at which point it is of course better value. Nonetheless, I don't feel that £16 for 60 capsules is extortionate and would definitely continue to take a vitamin A supplement having seen the positive effects on my skin. Good work, ANP!

perfect partners

Skin Vitality 1, £17.10

Skin Omegas, £20.60

Skin Vit C, £10.90

Skin Accumax, £34.90

OXY Clearlight Light Device

 

RRP: £39.99

--What does the promo say?--

"A proven technology called blue light therapy has been used extensively for years by dermatologists for the successful treatment of spots, acne and blemishes. It has been scientifically proven that blue light at the specific wavelength of 415nm kills spot-causing bacteria. OXY Clearlight harnesses the healing power of blue-light technology in a safe, convenient and hygienic device for home use. OXY Clearlight penetrates to the root of P. acnes, killing spot-causing bacteria and helping prevent spots from erupting. The light emits NO heat, and NO harmful UV rays. It does NOT cause drying, peeling or discomfort, either."

--Packaging--

Surprisingly small! The white-grey device blasts all of the enormous, hideously expensive light-emitting devices that are currently available to home users into the shade: it's no longer than your own hand, meaning it's perfect for neat bathroom storage or for travel. At one end of the device is a series of small lights within an indented circle. This is the part that you press against your face wherever you want its rays to target. There's just one simple button that slides and clicks into place to turn the device on, and it turns itself off automatically when you're done too. This product runs on batteries, but they seem to last a very long time before replacement is required.

--Application--

OXY's instructions read as follows: "Press the power button and place the Clearlight device over the spot. Listen for the beep indicating that the therapeutic light is at work. The device will automatically switch itself off at the end of the 3-minute treatment cycle. Use twice daily, morning and evening, for 3 minutes until your spot has cleared." There's nothing difficult about this, although it's obviously quicker if you just have one or two spots, as opposed to having a full face of them.

--Appearance--

The design of the device is clearly functional rather than decorative, but there's nothing wrong with that. It's ergonomically designed, from how it feels in your hand to how it feels against your face, so there's certainly no discomfort involved. The blue lights are only visible if you're not pressing the device against your skin correctly (but it's so easy to use that this should be an unlikely scenario).

--Sensation--

Having used at-home hair removal devices and also had professional electrolysis, where your skin often tingles in a way that almost breaches on pain thanks to the heat involved, I was expecting to feel something while I used this device. Happily, it's completely pain-free to the point that you feel absolutely nothing - you can quite easily clean your teeth, chat to your partner, or just have a little uninterrupted thinking time while you use the device until it turns itself off at the end of the cycle. Brill.

--Effects on the skin--

If you press too hard you'll get a little pressure ring on your skin where you've used the device, so be careful! This is just inconvenient, not painful, but just remember that there's no need to press the device against your skin for it to work effectively. I definitely found that spot size and redness was reduced much more quickly than normal while using this product. Top stuff!

--Value for money--

I can understand why consumers may baulk a little at the nearly-£40 price tag, especially as a lot of acne sufferers are going to be students with little spare cash. However, I'd definitely say it's worth the investment. It gets rid of the spot quickly, that's true - but the peace of mind and confidence this also affords you is invaluable.   

perfect partners

Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash, £5.99

Seaweed Power Clear Pore Exfoliant, £5.99

Seaweed Power Deep Calm Balm, £5.99 

Emergency Spot Treatment Gel, £6.99

All 5 OXY products are also available as a special bundle from OXY's website at a promotional price of £54.95, saving you £10 of the full retail price.
For the 4 skin care products alone (minus the Clearlight device), another special package is available at the price of £19.99 (instead of £24.96).   

OXY Emergency Spot Treatment Gel

RRP: £6.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Oxy Emergency Spot Treatment Gel is an anti spot gel that reduces the size and redness of spots in just 4-hours."

--Packaging--

The small tube comes encased in hard plastic (the kind often seen protecting Easter eggs, that you sometimes need a chainsaw or similar to crack), but once you've opened it, this convenient little tube can be carried in your handbag or pocket, or kept in the bathroom (lain down or stood up), all without risk of leakage. While it sticks to the blue and green colour scheme of OXY's new Seaweed range, the tube itself doesn't feature the seaweed design like the other products do.

--Application--
OXY say you can apply this directly to any spots that are troubling you as often as 6 times a day, but I didn't find it was needed this frequently (see below for notes on efficacy).

--Appearance--

A completely clear gel with just the right amount of viscosity, which leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Sports the seaweed scent like the other products, but perhaps less so than they do.

--Texture and consistency--

Possibly the nicest of the products to use. Offers a pleasing cooling sensation on application, which can make you feel like it's really working, rubs in beautifully, and leaves no sticky or tacky residue either.

--Effects on the skin--

I found that the time scale varied with this one. Even if it didn't always reduce spot severity within 4 hours as promised, it definitely acted within 12 hours on a consistent basis - and that's without applying the gel 6 times a day as directed, so perhaps if you did, you'd see even faster results. And even if you can't be bothered with all that messing around, just one application should mean that if you wake up with something the size of Mount Olympus on your face and begin worrying, it should be significantly smaller by the time of that important meeting or party come later.

--Value for money--

At £6.99 this is the most expensive of all four OXY Seaweed skincare products, but I would definitely buy this when my current tube runs out. Delivers a wow-factor results at affordable prices.

perfect partners

Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash, £5.99

Seaweed Power Clear Pore Exfoliant, £5.99

Seaweed Power Deep Calm Balm, £5.99
Clearlight, £39.99

All 5 OXY products are also available as a special bundle from OXY's website at a promotional price of £54.95, saving you £10 of the full retail price.
For the 4 skin care products alone (minus the Clearlight device), another special package is available at the price of £19.99 (instead of £24.96).   

OXY Seaweed Power Deep Calm Balm

RRP: £5.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Proven to reduce the number of spots and blackheads when used daily with OXY Fresh Skin Wash. OXY Deep Calm Balm is an oil-free moisturiser. It harnesses the power of natural seaweed to keep skin soft and hydrated, whilst helping to prevent oily skin, spots and blackheads. Apply OXY Deep Calm Balm liberally to the face after cleansing with OXY Fresh Skin Wash. As well as being effective against spots, OXY Deep Calm Balm is also naturally kind to skin. Dermatologically tested, it is suitable for sensitive skin, and contains no alcohol, parabens or SLS.

--Packaging--

Smaller than the other tubes in the range, other than this the moisturiser is essentially the same: plastic, flip-top lid, secure closure, eye-catching design.

--Application--

Use morning and night after cleansing, without rinsing off. No problems here bar what I outline under "Texture and consistency" below.

--Appearance--

This moisturiser is almost pure white, with what I assume to be white silica beads suspended in it. The beads do unfortunately have a tendency to stick to the face, so make sure you take a last look in the mirror before leaving the house!

--Scent--

Smells authentically of seaweed, but is not overpowering.

--Texture and consistency--

Can leave a slightly sticky film on the face after application, but not enough for it to be too unpleasant. The silica beads sticking to the face is a bit more of a problem, as unlike with the exfoliator, you obviously don't want to rub too hard with a towel or flannel after you've put it on, or else you risk rubbing away all the good stuff too.

--Effects on the skin--

Works well to reduce spots and redness while keeping dry skin at bay. Nice work, OXY!

--Value for money--

I would definitely replenish my stocks of this along with the other OXY Seaweed Power products once my current supplies (kindly sent to me by OXY's PR) run out; it sinks into skin nicely and offers acne sufferers a welcome reprieve.

perfect partners

Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash, £5.99

Seaweed Power Clear Pore Exfoliant, £5.99
Emergency Spot Treatment Gel, £6.99
Clearlight, £39.99

All 5 OXY products are also available as a special bundle from OXY's website at a promotional price of £54.95, saving you £10 of the full retail price.
For the 4 skin care products alone (minus the Clearlight device), another special package is available at the price of £19.99 (instead of £24.96).   

Oxy Seaweed Power Clear Pore Exfoliant

RRP: £5.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Proven to reduce the number of spots within 48 hours. OXY Clear Pore Exfoliant harnesses the power of natural seaweed to cleanse deep into your pores. It cuts through grease and oil, removing dead skin, clearing spots, blackheads and oily skin. As well as being effective against spots, OXY Clear Pore Exfoliant is also naturally kind to skin. Dermatologically tested, it is suitable for sensitive skin, and contains no alcohol, parabens or SLS."

--Packaging--

Clearly part of a unified range concept, the seaweed image is unisex and instantly recognisable as being part of OXY's latest initiative. The packaging is reasonably durable although some of the exfoliant does leak inside the plastic flip-top lid at times.

--Application--

The OXY website instructs: "Wet your face with warm water. Massage OXY Clear Pore Exfoliant into your skin, then rinse thoroughly. For best results, repeat this process 2 to 3 times a week in conjunction with daily use of OXY Fresh Skin Wash and OXY Deep Calm Balm." There's nothing difficult about this and it generally helps to keep dry skin at bay, meaning you shouldn't need to use it more than the recommended weekly frequency.

--Appearance--

An opaque gel which has obvious particles in it. These seem to be natural sandy particles that are unfortunately quite difficult to rinse fully off the face. Towel dry well to be sure that you're rid of them, or use a toner that's suitable for oily skin to pick up the excess.

--Scent--

Like the rest of the range, a naturally salty seaweed smell is evident but shouldn't bother anyone or interfere with perfume.

--Texture and consistency--

The particles may feel too harsh for some (they really are quite hard; very different to the silica beads that a lot of supposed "exfoliators" contain, which apparently have the same exfoliating efficacy as butter), but are effective in sloughing away dry skin. However, like a couple of other products in the range, a slightly sticky residue can occasionally be felt from the gel itself. Perhaps rinse twice to avoid this.

--Effects on the skin--

Does not aggravate skin and does help to keep dry skin patches down, making it perfect for combination skin types, but I did notice a persistently dry patch between my eyebrows that I had to concentrate on more, with extra use of the exfoliant and moisturiser. It also works well with the rest of the range in terms of reducing spot numbers (and yes, it really does do this within 48 hours as stated).

--Value for money--

£5.99 can seem a bit much for a range that you'd perhaps expect to be under £5 per product, but it seems to me that OXY has really upped its ante in recent years. It's effective and not unpleasant to use; I would therefore buy it again and recommend it to others.

perfect partners

Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash, £5.99
Seaweed Power Fresh Deep Calm Balm, £5.99
Emergency Spot Treatment Gel, £6.99
Clearlight, £39.99

All 5 OXY products are also available as a special bundle from OXY's website at a promotional price of £54.95, saving you £10 of the full retail price.
For the 4 skin care products alone (minus the Clearlight device), another special package is available at the price of £19.99 (instead of £24.96).     

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Cream Wash

--What does the promo say?--
"Enriched with powerful MicroClear® technology, the gentle cream wash cleanses deeply, removing dirt, oil and impurities to help prevent spots and blackheads. With its creamy texture it purifies the skin without overdrying, while a wave of pink grapefruit uplifts the senses with a burst of invigorating freshness. Dermatologically tested and suitable for even sensitive skin."

--Packaging--

The classic stand-alone flip-top lid is a good one for travel - this one went on a nine-hour drive and back, with the holiday involving two different overnight stay destinations, and not a leak in sight. The pink and white combination is nice, too, and slightly unusual in a market where greens and blues tend to proliferate.

--Application--

Rub a blob of the cream between your hands and then smooth all over the face, avoiding the eye area. You don't even need to wet your hands first :)  Then rinse off using a flannel before proceeding with the rest of your routine.

--Appearance--

A pale pink cream that gives a hint of everyday luxury - lovely. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--

Bang on the money for the pink grapefruit there - you can smell it straight away and it doesn't smell at all overpowering or artificial - job well done.

--Texture, consistency and sensation--

As mentioned, the creaminess adds a great bit of luxury into your daily routine. Strangely, it is not difficult at all to wash off the face, but if there is any excess left on your hands you will need to use soap to get off any residue. The sensation during use is amazing - cooling and refreshing - and you really feel while using it as if it is doing something good.

--Effects on the skin--

I had already tested the original facial wash last summer courtesy of Neutrogena, so was really interested to see how this would compare. I had experienced more oily skin than I would have liked last time, which wasn't something I noticed this time around. Like last time, too, I did see a marginal improvement during this trial. Sadly, there was not quite *enough* improvement for me to consider buying this product again - although as I have said before in my reviews of other products (by Neutrogena and otherwise), as a long-term acne sufferer I appreciate I am a special case, so if you just get a few spots from time to time, this may well work for you. As claimed in the promotional material, it does not dry out the skin, so you need have no fears on this score. As I mentioned last time, too, if Neutrogena expanded the range further with masks, toners, moisturisers and wipes, the effects of the product may be maximised, as opposed to mixing the use of this product with stuff from another brand (Salcura for me at the moment).

--Value for money--

If you have more severe skin conditions, as I do, then something a little bit stronger in the same price bracket, such as Ten O Six's Pore Cream Facial Wash may prove a little more effective. At £4.49, though, Neutrogena's cream wash is not a bad deal at all, so even if you do try it and find it doesn't work for you, at least you won't feel too much out of pocket.

perfect partners

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash, £4.99

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub, £4.99

Alpha H Triple Action Cleanser

RRP: £21/200ml

--What does the promo say?--

"This light non-foaming cleansing gel that removes all traces of face and eye make-up whilst cooling the skin. Contains triclosan (a scientifically proven anti-bacterial which helps reduce acne breakouts), aloe vera, which hydrates, and cucumber, which calms and soothes. Recommended for normal, combination or oily skins; for adults and teenagers suffering from persistent breakouts, or for men to use prior to shaving. Gently removes eye make-up; retards the spread of acne bacteria, breaking the acne cycle; skin attains correct pH balance thanks to unique combination of ingredients; skin becomes more receptive to further treatment."

--Packaging--

Very utilitarian and unisex in its black and white plastic tube. While functional is good, I would have perhaps liked something that told me a little more about the product's "personality".

--Application--

Spread the non-foaming gel over a wet face and then rinse off. Nothing difficult about that.

--Appearance--

A clear gel which, as mentioned is non-foaming. Leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Virtually scent-free; a tiny amount of aloe vera may be detectable, but it's certainly not strong enough to bother anyone.

--Texture and consistency--

As you would expect a gel to feel: not lumpy, not sticky. Just smooth. Easy to wash off.

--Effects on the skin--

Despite the generally boring-if-hunky-dory aspects of the product as detailed above, this is where I hit trouble, and where my view seems to differ to just about everyone else on the internet. I found that oil built up more quickly on my skin throughout the day while I was using this, and that if anything spots got worse and took longer to go away. Sucks to be me.

--Value for money--

Those for whom this product works probably find it's excellent value. But I don't - and find that £21 is pretty expensive in general. For something more effective, and cheaper, go for Clinique's Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Bar or Cleansing Foam (£13 each), or Neal's Yard Rejuvenating Frankincense Facial Wash (£16). For something in the same price bracket - which provides a more effective and luxurious experience, go for Liz Earle's Cleanse & Polish, which is exactly the same price at £21 for 200ml.

perfect partners

Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+, £25.50

Purifying Clay Mask with Vitamin A, £24

Lush Tea Tree Water

RRP: from £3.25/100ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Tea tree is extremely soothing and can work wonders on troubled or oily skin. We've also added juniper berry and grapefruit waters to refresh and tone with natural oils."

--Packaging--
The black recyclable spray-top bottle with chalkboard-style writing is very typical of Lush, keeping things simple while still making the product stand out on the shelf. Only problem is that sometimes the pump can stop or get stuck, meaning you either have to just keep pumping or wait a bit for it to revive itself, which can get a bit annoying.

--Application--
After cleansing, spray directly onto clean dry face (close your eyes now!) just as a quick summer refresher (and then wipe it away with a cotton pad if you want). Orrrr you can spray it onto a cotton pad (4-5 pumps will do it) and wipe over your face. Then moisturise as normal. No problems here.

--Appearance--
It's a completely clear liquid.

--Scent--
You can smell the tea tree, but it doesn't pack as much punch as other tea tree products I've used in the past, which might be good if you normally find the tea tree smell to be a bit overbearing.

--Texture, consistency, and sensation--
The sensation provided by this toner is lovely and cooling, with no irritation occurring at all.

--Effects on the skin--
It does seem to lift off a little bit of grime when you look back at the cotton pad, but perhaps the lack of any really strong smell also proves a signal of its performance: I did not see any significant long or short-term improvement in my skin as a result of using this toner. Shame.

--Value for money--
While very travel-friendly, this product just didn't do it for me. The full-size bottle being about £6, if you're on a similar budget I'd perhaps plump instead for Elizabeth Arden Oil Control Clarifying Toner, Black Opal Purifying Astringent, or Lavera Mint Facial Toner - all of which look promising for those of us with oily skin.

perfect partners
Tea Tree Toner Tab, £0.75/5 grams
Tea Tree 7 Tab Twistwrap Pack, £5/35 grams
Aqua Marina Cleanser, £5.50/100g
Grease Lightning Cleanser, £5.10/45ml
Herbalism, £5.50/100g
Saving Face, £7.50/20g
Vanishing Cream Moisturiser, £15.25/45 grams
Cosmetic Warrior Fresh Face Mask, £6.45/75 grams

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash

RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"The unique formula in the Visibly Clear® Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash helps to effectively reduce blackheads and spots whilst the pleasant burst of grapefruit scent gives a much needed pick-me-up, leaving skin clearer and fresh. It also contains patented MicroClear® Technology, which offers a fast and effective solution for clearer and healthier looking skin. As you may know spot-causing bacteria can lie deep in the pores, but oil on the surface can make it difficult for spot-fighting ingredients to penetrate. MicroClear® Technology uses powerful sebum-dissolving agents to break through the oil, so that the spot fighting ingredient salicylic acid can penetrate further to help clear spots and prevent future breakouts."

--Packaging--
A simple, clear, pump-action plastic bottle that speaks for itself by showing the natural pink of the gel glowing from within.

--Application--
One pump of the gel into wet hands is enough to work up a good lather. Rub over your face and then rinse off with warm water.

--Appearance--
A translucent pink gel that (perhaps sadly) lathers white. No visible residue is left on the face after rinsing.

--Scent--
Definitely very grapefruity :) Very refreshing and stimulating.

--Texture and consistency--
Very smooth and lathers quite well into a fine foam; not at all lumpy or irritating.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin outwardly appears calmer with less redness. In terms of reducing spots, it does do this to an extent, with some improvement being obvious, but I still found my skin to be a little oilier than I would like it to be. However, I'm aware that I'm a fairly 'extreme' case (having suffered with acne for the past 14 years) and that others may therefore see more dramatic results. It is also worth noting, though, that I have been using this product in conjunction with Lush's Tea Tree Toner and Paradise Regained Moisturiser, neither of which I have ever found to be very effective but am just trying to use up - meaning that perhaps if this cleanser was used in tandem with more effective products (such as Neutrogena's Pink Grapefruit Scrub, which is also coming out in July), the cleanser's full healing potential could be realised.

--Value for money--
I'll be honest - I had never really had a good impression of Neutrogena in the past, lumping it in my mind with other products of its price bracket that I have previously found to be ineffective, such as Oxy and Clearasil, but feel after using this product that I have been proved wrong, having seen some improvement during this trial. Most people (i.e. those with less severe and persistent acne than my own) should see impressive results with this product, so at £4.99, I'd say it's definitely worth a try. With a bit of luck, Neutrogena will also expand the range with toners, creams and masks to provide a fully comprehensive routine.

perfect partners
Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Scrub, £4.99 (out in July)

Elemental Beauty Mineral Concealer

RRP: £3.99 for 2-2.5g; £6.99 for 5-6g
# of shades available: 6, including one marine-colour for colour correction

--What does the promo say?--
"Our healing mineral concealers contain Allantoin to heal damaged skin and promote skin regeneration which makes them perfect for use on blemishes too. You can also use them to control oil and they are particularly effective if brushed onto the T-zone before applying foundation and will keep your complexion matt and shine free all day. You can also mix them with foundation for heavier coverage. They can be applied dry in powder form or used with a damp brush or sponge to give heavy coverage that will last and protect all day[...]Our concealers easily mix with foundation to give heavier coverage or with each other to achieve different shades for an exact skin match. You should be able to achive most shades with a mixture of Fairly Light and Buff in varying quantities."

--Packaging--
My comments are largely the same as for the blusher; there needs to be holes actually in the protective tray (rather than blocked dents) so that it's easier to shake the concealer into the lid for use as a palette, and I definitely prefer the font that's used on the website to the one that's used on the product lids.

--Application--
The Elemental Beauty website recommends mixing the concealer with a little moisturiser to create a healing and concealing cream. While I haven't attempted this technique yet, it sounds like it could be a good idea to make application more controllable: in its usual form, there's no way you could apply this on the move as the powder does tend to 'fly' a bit during application if you put too much on the brush (though using a slightly damp brush could help to remedy this as well).

--Appearance--
The shade I was sent, Bright Eyes, struck me as having a rather sandy colour that appeared a little patchy on my skin, although this was no longer the case once it had been blended with foundation and finishing powder. Pale types would be best with this or with Fairly Light (or, if you suffer with redness, the colour-correcting shade).

--Texture/consistency--
Smooth, light, and non-irritating.

--Coverage--
Clings to dry patches somewhat, so won't be helpful if you have any blemishes in these areas. You also definitely need to apply before foundation to allow the colour to blend and so that it can be set in place with the foundation and with any finishing powder that you wish to use. If these guidelines are followed, though, there should be no problems with coverage.

--Longevity--
Not the best concealer I've used in this respect and definitely not the worst, though I found that this concealer's durability was weakest around my nose. Prepare to top up once or twice a day.

--Value for money--
This is a very affordable concealer that easily beats many of its high street competitors on price; bear in mind that you are also getting a concealer from a specialist mineral company that should be perfect for sensitive skin. However, I'd really like to see them expand their range of concealer shades and perhaps also work on the long-wearing nature of the product before I bought this.

Montagne Jeunesse Squeezed Orange Extract Pore Strips (Nose)

RRP: £1.49 for a sachet containing 3 nose strips

--What does the promo say?--
"These ultra deep cleansing pore strips contain natural citrus to draw out deep-rooted impurities and blackheads for cleaner, less visible pores on and around your nose. The orange fragrance is really uplifting. Suitable for vegans; gluten free; dairy free; and nut-derivative free."

--Packaging--
A simple throwaway plastic sachet, with a neutral background and orange decoration, plus your trademark image of a smiling clear-skinned girl wearing the pore strip. The Montagne Jeunesse logo and the bright orange 'pore strips' sign occur at the top of the sachet. The sachet is easy to open; just tear off the top and remove the nose strip (each of the 3 nose strips is also individually packaged in blue and orange mini sachets). Then undo the individual nose strip sachet to reveal the nose strip (specially shaped to fit the contours of the nasal area), stuck to a clear plastic backing. All very simple to open and it keeps each strip individually preserved until you want to use it. The packaging design is also very normal for the Montagne Jeunesse brand image.

--Application--
Slightly trickier than you would expect. As well as wetting your nose, you also have to wet the back of the strip (the sticky side) before putting the strip on your face. This sounds simple, but if you wet the strip too much or not enough then it just doesn't work. Shame. Once you have the thing stuck to your nose, leave it on until it dries and hardens (should take no more than 15 minutes) and then rip off gently like you would a plaster.

--Appearance--
The strips are white and specially shaped so that they will sit well on the nose as well as extending slightly onto the cheeks.

--Sensitivity--
The strips seem very sensitive and I have experienced no irritation or dehydration of the skin while using them.

--Do they do what they say they will?--
Sometimes! If you get lucky and manage to get the amount of water right on the strip and your face then the strip clings well, dries and hardens excellently, and removes blackheads effectively. However, if you misjudge the amount of water needed (VERY easy to do - I've been using these strips for a while and still don't always get it right), then the strip doesn't harden properly and thus removes few/no blackheads. When they work, they work very very well. When they don't work they are RUBBISH.

--Value for money--
At £1.49 for 3 strips, that works out at less than 50p a strip - not bad considering that most high street brands such as Biore and T-Zone charge closer to £1 per strip. As I've said, when they work they do work extremely well (certainly better than other brands I've tried), so at that price, you've got nothing to lose.

*all of the above also applies to Montagne Jeunesse's Green Tea Forehead and Chin Strips, also £1.49 for 3 strips