Noble Isle Fireside Body Lotion

RRP: £25

--What does the promo say?--
"Fireside kindles the warm, spicy aromas of a country inn with cinnamon and cypress oil, comforting vanilla and vitamin-rich organic beet extract."

--Packaging--
The rustic logo and minimalist text create a clear brand identity, and the bronze embellishments and black pump-action system add to the classiness of the look also. Clear plastic bottle a bonus as you can always see how much is left.

--Application--
Rub into clean dry skin. The only annoying part is that the pump, while efficient for small areas of the body such as the hands, only dispenses a small amount of lotion at a time, which means moisturising your whole body can take a while.

--Appearance--
White, but quickly rubs in clear.

--Scent--
None of the stated fragrances stand out individually, but blend perfectly for a balanced aroma that appropriately evokes the desired wintery, fireside atmosphere. It's oriental without being too masculine or woody (although him indoors described it as fruity, meaning that the grapefruit is possibly more detectable than I'd imagined).

--Texture and consistency--
Completely smooth; is absorbed without a hitch.

--Effects on the skin--
Skin is effectively moisturised, both short-term and long-term.

--Value for money--
While perhaps a little pricy, dispensation is efficient and the results are clear. This would also make a beautiful gift for anyone you care about.

perfect partners
Fragrance Sampler, £12
Mini Traveller, £15
Mini Love, £15
Warm and Woody Trio, £19.50
Bath and Shower Trio, £19.50
Fireside Bath and Shower Gel, £20
Deluxe Traveller, £29
Bath and Body Gift Set, £29
Bath and Shower Gel Duo Deal, £34
Fireside Candle and Snuffer, £39

Muse-ic to our ears

SPONSORED BY ESTEE LAUDER

As many of you may know, I'm a bit of a fan of Estée Lauder's cosmetics and skincare. I won't pretend that I love every single product I've tried from this brand, but I've never once concealed my admiration for their highly effective Take It Away makeup remover, the wearable Beautiful Love, the joyful Idealist serum, the failsafe DayWear Plus, and the deeply conditioning Pure Color Gloss.

Now, just in time for Christmas, the brand has added another fragrance to its arsenal, which perhaps most famously consists of Pure White, Pleasures, and Beyond Paradise. Modern Muse is already awash with five-star ratings online, and its sparkling floral notes sound right up my alley, tallying with the personalities of my current favourite fragrances (YSL Parisienne and Hugo Boss Femme). Combining citrus and jasmine notes with patchouli, vanilla, amber and musk, this promises to be a balanced yet special fragrance for the festive season and beyond.

Don't believe me? Then perhaps this will convince you:
And if that's not enough, the Estée Lauder website offers 2 free samples with every order - so there's every chance to try before you buy (or at least, before SANTA buys :) ).

M Micallef Art Collection Rouge 2013

RRP: €185/100ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Parfums M Micallef...is announcing the launch of the new ART COLLECTION with a duo of gourmand and sensual fragrances: Rouge N°1 and Rouge N°2...The M Micallef Company gives priority to qualitative and natural ingredients in its fragrances...Martine Micallef has reinterpreted the Art Deco fundamentals [combining] geometrical figures, cubic cap and bottle adorned with circular shaped Swarovski Crystal Rocks. Floral-fruity eau de parfum Rouge N°1 combines delicious yellow fruit and a generous bunch-of-flowers heart, warmed by the vanilla and white musk base. Oriental-floral eau de parfum Rouge N°2 mixes the refinement of a bunch of jasmine, orchids and violets with oriental scents of amber, vanilla and animal notes."

--Packaging--
The samples sent to me for free by M Micallef were just plastic vials. However, it's true that the bottles themselves look very impressive. My only worry is that this extravagance in the packaging could drive up the price of the perfume itself.

--Application--
Spritz onto pressure points to have the scent linger all over your body.

--Scent--
The Rouge N°1 is, in my view, far too heavy, evoking images of overly made-up old ladies and retro film stars (and sadly not in a good way). I suspect that the overbearing ylang ylang is responsible for this, with the other aspects of the scent not getting a look-in. Perhaps purchase for your grandmother!

On the other hand, Rouge N°2 is a delight, and perfect for young ladies or the young-at-heart. Sparkling and uplifting, it is carried on the blissful wings of violet, citrus and blackcurrant. Vanilla and jasmine ensure it isn't too sharp, while nutmeg and amber make sure it isn't sickly sweet. Unique and perfectly balanced.

--Longevity--
M Micallef's perfumes are made with very high-quality ingredients, so while you may wish to reapply once during the day just to get that burst of the head notes again, it's not strictly necessary, since even though you stop smelling it, it does last all day.

--Value for money--
On the one hand, I can't blame you for the sharp intake of breath that I myself experienced upon realising how expensive M Micallef's fragrances are. Alongside the absolute cost, relatively speaking I can see why people might want to go for a bigger name: for a similar price, you can choose eaux de parfum from brands such as Giorgio Armani, Guerlain, Yves St Laurent or Acqua di Parma. On the other hand, such a quantity (remember we are talking about a 100ml bottle here) would last you an incredibly long time - with daily use, I'd estimate a minimum of 18-24 months. Rouge N°2 is a unique scent using high-quality ingredients that would give you a kick out of using a limited edition perfume whose fragrance you really love every day for nearly two whole years. Plus, you'd have the moral satisfaction of supporting a smaller parfumière, as opposed to one of the big boys. The choice is yours.

M Micallef perfumes can be purchased in the UK at Fortnum and Mason, as well as at Harrods (at Roja Dove's).

Dove Purely Pampering Shea Butter and Warm Vanilla Body Cream

RRP: £4.99

--What does the promo say?--
"The classic Dove Purely Pampering Shea Butter & Warm Vanilla bursts with creamy floral notes, blended harmoniously with warm vanilla, sandalwood and white musk, embracing the senses with pure elegance."

--Packaging--
An enormous tub with a screw-top lid that looks like it will last ages. Beautifully decorated with images evoking the shea butter and vanilla theme without being overloaded.

--Application--
Scoop some cream into the palm of your hand and rub between both hands to warm up before rubbing into clean dry skin. No problems here.

--Appearance--
A stiff white cream which soon melts into something more emollient when rubbed together in the palms. Leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
As with the other products with this scent in the Dove Purely Pampering range, the shea butter is more prominent than the vanilla in this. I was hoping that Dove would capitalise on the warm vanilla aspect more with the addition of exotic spices such as cardamom, but hey - you can't have it all.

--Texture and consistency--
In spite of the cream's thickness, it rubs into skin really well and absorbs quickly. Doesn't weigh too heavily on the skin at all or clog pores.

--Effects on the skin--
Highly moisturising, but no more so than the body lotions in the Purely Pampering range.

--Value for money--
While this is a pleasant product, and it does work effectively, it's not much larger than the brand's body lotion counterparts, is not available in enough scents, and does not differentiate enough in terms of efficacy to be worth the extra cash.    

perfect partners

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Body Lotion, £3.99

Dove Purely Pampering Body Wash, £2.40

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Hand Cream, £3.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Cream Hand Wash, £1.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Bar, £1.59

Dove Purely Pampering Body Wash

RRP: £2.40
Number of varieties: 3 (shea butter/vanilla; coconut/jasmine; hibiscus/almond)

--What does the promo say?--
"A shower experience that nourishes and pampers. Dove Shea Butter with Warm Vanilla body wash blended with NutriumMoisture™ creates a gentle cloud of creamy lather that will leave you and your skin feeling restored and nourished. The warm scent fills the shower enveloping you with care, allowing you to feel balanced and renewed. Caring for yourself never felt so good."

--Packaging--
The body wash bottle has a lovely curved shape, and is just the right size to prevent you from dropping it in the shower. It tapers at the top to a tiny flip-top lid that is the same colour as the label, avoiding confusion in the shop or shower when you make a last-minute grab for the one you want from the range (there are 3).

--Application--
Lather up under the shower, luxuriate for as long as you like, and then rinse off. Classic.

--Appearance--
A white, slightly foamy yet still substantial cream wash. Leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
There are three varieties of this available, but I have just tested one (the shea butter and warm vanilla version). It definitely delivers on the shea butter hit; less so on the vanilla front.

--Texture and consistency--
Lathers up really well, and stays on the skin for as long as you want it to. Rinses off easily when it's time to.

--Effects on the skin--
Seems to deliver skin smoothness as promised, although I used this in conjunction with its accompanying body lotion and body cream, so it's difficult to say exactly where this effect comes from.

--Value for money--
At £2.40, this is on a par price-wise with brands such as Nivea, Johnson and Johnson, and Palmolive. Offering a luxurious experience at a generous price, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

perfect partners

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Body Lotion, £3.99

Dove Purely Pampering Body Cream, £4.99

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Hand Cream, £3.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Cream Hand Wash, £1.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Bar, £1.59

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Lotion

RRP: from £3.99/250ml
Number of varieties available: 3 (shea butter/warm vanilla; sweet almond/hibiscus; coconut/jasmine)

--What does the promo say?--

"Lavished with intensely nurturing ingredients, the NEW Purely Pampering skincare collection from Dove has been created to infuse the skin with the care it deserves, everyday, and wrap it in irresistible fragrance. The Dove Purely Pampering formulations deliver delicious care to skin, and are available in three lusciously scented variants – Shea Butter and Warm Vanilla, Almond Cream & Hibiscus and Coconut Milk & Jasmine Petals. Containing Dove’s unique DeepCare Complex, an infusion of skin-natural nutrients and rich essential oil for deep down nourishment, Dove Purely Pampering promises long lasting, smooth skin. Let the indulgent ingredients nourish your skin, to deliver our most irresistible care."

--Packaging--

The three bottles are ergonomically designed, with a curved ridge cut into the side of the bottle for easy handling (even with lotion-covered hands!) and an easy-to-use flip-top lid. All three variants are clearly part of the same range, but the differently-coloured labels make it easy to distinguish between them. Generally the lids work well, but there is some risk of leakage (only 2 out of 3 of these arrived from Dove's lovely PR people completely full), so be careful!

--Application--

Rub a strawberry-sized amount between the hands to warm the lotion and then rub into clean dry skin. Repeat as desired until whole body is moisturised (or 'basted' as my delightful husband says. I AM NOT A CHICKEN :p).

--Appearance--

A white cream that is thick without being mousse-like. It comes out of the tube easily without rushing out. Wastage is easily avoided. The lotion itself rubs easily into the skin with no visible residue.

--Scent--

With three different varieties available, there should be something for everyone. Here's my verdict on each of them. The shea butter and warm vanilla is pleasant, although the shea butter shows more than the vanilla. I had expected some slightly spicier elements also (perhaps cardamom or cinnamon notes would have been good). The coconut and jasmine version is well-balanced, with the coconut not being overbearing - the last thing you want is for your body lotion to smell like sunscreen! The almond and hibiscus is the best of the lot though: well-balanced and creative, with the fruitiness of the hibiscus coming through later. All, however, are delightful and merit future purchase.

--Texture and consistency--

All of the lotions absorbed very well and were not sticky, runny or greasy. Result.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin felt not just immediately softer but also smoother throughout the day, suggesting a definite possibility of longer-term results.

--Value for money--

Dove's body lotions are priced in line with similar brands such as Palmer's and E45, and compete equally on quality and scent. As promised in their promotional materials, they provide effective care for skin along with a luxurious at-home pampering experience. Would recommend.

perfect partners

Dove Purely Pampering Body Wash, £2.40

Dove Purely Pampering Body Cream, £4.99

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Hand Cream, £3.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Cream Hand Wash, £1.49

Dove Purely Pampering Beauty Bar, £1.59

Deep Heat Neck and Shoulder Cream

  RRP: £5.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Deep Heat Muscle Rescue Neck and Shoulder Cream has a rosemary and vanilla fragrance. It eases everyday stresses and tensions. The applicator allows for specific areas to be targeted."

--Packaging--

The screw-top lid and built-in sponge applicator means this product is not going to get away with leaking all over your stuff when you travel. I initially felt dubious about the efficacy of the sponge applicator, but my fears were soon allayed - it allows even application even on the parts of the shoulder that are the most awkward to reach, and can also be removed if required. The combination of red, orange and purple imposed on the white tube means it should appeal to everyone and it seems to be clearly part of the Deep Heat range without the logo being overpowering.

--Application--

Squeeze the tube until some lotion appears on the sponge, then rub evenly over your back and shoulders until absorbed. No need to get in there with your fingers - the sponge applicator does the job all on its own, so this is totally mess-free.

--Appearance--

The lotion is smooth and white, and doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin or on bedclothes or bedsheets.

--Scent--

The rosemary is the most obvious scent, with the vanilla being barely detectable, but it's not overpowering and should appeal to males and females equally. A good, strong, natural smell.

--Texture and consistency--

As mentioned, this absorbs easily and is not runny or sticky. Even though it's intended to target muscle pain, it feels luxurious rather than medicinal thanks to its creaminess.

--Sensation--

The warming sensation promised is not immediately obvious, with it initially seeming more like a cooling sensation. However, things gradually heat up and the result is a lovely, warming, satisfying feeling akin to an electric blanket or hot water bottle. No burning or stinging sensations were experienced and it does a great deal to chase away muscle pain and stress. It's fabulous when you're feeling ill too. 

--Value for money--

I've never encountered a product like this and find this one to be extremely innovative and effective. Even though I was sent this one for free, I would gladly cough up the £5.99 for a replacement when it runs out. Super stuff.

perfect partner

Muscle Rescue Bath Soak, £5.49

Molton Brown Relaxing Yuan Zhi Body Cream

RRP: £16 for 200ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Yuan zhi root with vanilla, rose, and ylang ylang. Perfect for those with busy lifestyles, this moisturising body lotion is our yang to the yin. Soothe. Immerse. Unwind."

--Packaging--

Mine is one of the mini travel bottles you can buy on the site, which has a screw top in the same colour as the pump action mechanism that you get on the full-size one. The silver effect is glamorous and doesn't detract from the rest of the bottle, which is transparent, allowing you to see the off-purple cream within. It's plastic, which means it's light and practical, and the purple writing on the front is minimalistic and fits in well with the colour scheme of the product, while still obviously belonging to Molton Brown.

--Application--

"Apply to the skin in circular massaging movements after showering/bathing, or whenever your skin feels like it needs some TLC. For best results, use after Relaxing Yuan Zhi Bath & Shower Gel." No problems here. The lotion sinks in easily, so this takes mere moments.

--Appearance--

As mentioned, a light, faintly purple cream which leaves no residue on the skin.

--Scent--

Yuan zhi is also known as senega root, and in truth it doesn't smell of much. The vanilla and rose included are also not especially prominent, with the ylang ylang perhaps the most detectable (even if only faintly). What's left is a very clean, slightly fragranced, cotton-like smell which proves pleasant and non-intrusive.

--Texture and consistency--

Smooth, unctuous and luxurious, this is a joy to use and soaks into skin easily without a hint of greasiness or stickiness. 

--Longevity--

The feeling of being moisturised lasts all day, although it's difficult to tell how long the scent lasts due to the further additions of perfume and sunscreen.

--Effects on the skin--

Senega root is traditionally used for a variety of ailments, including bites, coughs, colds, breathing difficulties, rheumatism and gout. Technically, then, in high enough quantities it should reduce inflammation and calm skin, and it did seem to reduce skin tightness, particularly after time in the sun, so is a great asset for summer. However, I think the moisturising qualities mostly come from the essential oils the product contains (vanilla, rose, ylang ylang, and meadowflower), which are extremely effective.

--Value for money--

At £18 per 200ml this isn't cheap and is on a par with brands such as Thierry Mugler, Vera Wang, Bulgari and Gatineau (perhaps indicating that you'd expect it to be more strongly perfumed!). However, this means it's an affordable luxury that everyone can enjoy. A little goes a long way, so one bottle will last longer than you'd expect too. You can also try to buy at outlet stores, such as the one located at Bicester Shopping Village, or in duty free shops, to save money, and don't forget to check the Molton Brown website for sales regularly.

perfect partners

Relaxing Yuan Zhi Bath and Shower, £18

Relaxing Yuan Zhi Forte Candela, £55

Relaxing Yuan Zhi Medio Candela, £36

Relaxing Yuan Zhi Piccolo Candela with Metal Arc, £30

Echo Yuan Zhi Bath and Body Gift Set, £72 

Relaxing Yuan Zhi Ambiente, £22

Radiant Lili-pili Hair Wash, currently £9 in the sale 

Villainess Smooch Body Scrub

RRP: £7
retails at: www.poshbrats.com (for UK buyers). The Villainess website, www.villainess.net, also ships worldwide.

--What does the promo say?--
"Teasing touches of revitalising mints - spearmint, cornmint, peppermint - grounded with a rich base note of black tea, and barely sweetened with soft vanilla."

--About the brand--
"Our catchphrase is "redefining bad." We're also taking significant steps to redefine the way skincare is formulated, manufactured and marketed. We love gentle, environmentally conscious, and animal-friendly components as much as anyone. But we're not interested in helping perpetuate false dichotomies or marketing ploys. A few premises:

*Ease of pronunciation is not a quality of a skincare component. We will not condescend to our customers by assuming they lack dictionary access or basic linguistic skills.
*Technically, all substances are chemicals and all materials originate from nature. The word "chemical" has been loaded with connotations that are not necessarily warranted. We refuse to exploit legitimate fears of the unknown by using emotionally charged language.
*Even some "natural" components have been processed and compromised; extracted with solvents, grown with pesticides, over-processed at high temperatures, homogenized, hydrogenated and several-steps removed from the "natural" materials they're derived from. These processes aren't always unnecessary, but they should be acknowledge as such and not sanitized with the "natural" label.
*Companies that do not animal test often use components which were animal tested. Most animal testing takes place long before body-care components are made available to small-formulators. Small-formulators don't usually have the budgets for the "ground-breaking new developments in skincare" where most testing is deemed necessary.

We approach things a little differently at Villainess. Our customers are educated regarding their skincare needs, and informed about the issues. Rather than sell the latest market-trends, we're meeting them on equal ground and frankly discussing the challenges we face."

--Packaging--
Love, love, love. This is old apothecary style meeting Pirates of the Carribean. It's the sort of thing that wouldn't be out of place lying around the sets of Thunder Mountain and the Indiana Jones rides at Disneyland. The body scrub is a simple screw-top plastic pot. It does take in some water, but not much, and the lid and label seem durable.

--Application--
Scrub all over body during your shower or bath, and then rinse off.

--Appearance--
While the website promises a mint green colour in this body scrub (Scintillating!), I found mine to be more of a mucus yellow. However, this can often occur due to natural colour variations that are a normal fallout of using natural ingredients, so I wasn't too bothered by it. The sugar crystals are clearly visible. On the skin, afterwards, it is not detectable by the eye.

--Texture/consistency--
Satisfyingly scrubby - you feel like it's really working. After use, a light and slightly oily sheen is left, but this sinks into skin quickly and is very moisturising. While this part of the proceedings is reminiscent of Lush's Buffy, UNLIKE Buffy it is not gritty and does not leave bits of beach all over your shower floor.

--Scent--
Blindingly correlative with the information given. It's incredibly satisfying when a product ticks all of the boxes that it claims to. Minty freshness? Check. Vanilla? Check. Black tea? It's there too. The resulting fragrance is really unique and is fresh enough to wake you up in the morning while still leaving a sophisticated perfume on your body. Beautiful. Although I do wish that Villainess wouldn't follow Philosophy's path and have 'fragrance' as one of the ingredients on its label. Yes, but WHICH fragrance? Keep your consumers informed.

--Effects on skin--
As well as the surprisingly moisturising element after use, it also does a good job of getting rid of dry skin all over your body, including on my usually persistently dry feet (although the dryness does return if you stop using the product).

--Value for money--
This range strikes me as being an excellent, affordable, unusual Christmas gift - not just for any fan of piratey stuff, but also for anyone who wants something that's just a bit different. Beyond that, it's also effective and pleasant to use. What more could you ask for?

perfect partners
Scintillating Soap, £4 from Posh Brats
Scintillating Whipped! Body Lotion, £7 from Posh Brats
Scintillating Mud Mask, £7 from Posh Brats
Scintillating Perfume Oil, £10 from Posh Brats
Scintillating Kaboom! Bath Bomb, $8.50 from Villainess

Bath and Body Works Black Amethyst Eau de Toilette

RRP: $26.50 for 2.5 fl.oz.

--What does the promo say?--
"Master perfumers have seductively layered a sophisticated blend of Italian bergamot and rare camellias with exotic sandalwood and a surprising twist of vetiver in this hypnotic fine fragrance, inspired by chic, sensual and confident women.

* Fragrance Top Notes: Bergamot Italian Oprur, Juicy Mandarin, Sparkling Tangerine, Zesty Orange, Waterfruits, Crisp Melon
* Fragrance Mid Notes: Lily of the Valley, Magnolia Blossom, Sheer Gardenia, Tuberose, Freesia, Peony Petals, Camellia
* Fragrance Base Notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Vanilla, Musk"

--Packaging--
A substantial-looking and sophisticated clear square bottle revealing the purple liquid within, without being so heavy as to put you off taking it on holiday with you. Spray-top with matte silver lid. Easy to use, and looks nice on your dressing table too.

--Application--
Spritz wherever desired.

--Scent--
Really very sexy: it's got so much depth, from the lighter floral scents, to the deeper, muskier sandalwood and patchouli. It's not overpowering, however, and it's not trying too hard to be clever or unusual: it all fuses together so naturally, and yet is somehow still unique. It's feminine, but not girly or babyish, and not too 'old' in the way that some fragrances are guilty of.

--Longevity--
Unfortunately, not as long as I'd like (needs reapplying by lunchtime), but seeing as it is an eau de toilette (rather than an eau de parfum), I think I can forgive them for this.

--Value for money--
It's a very reasonable price for such a high-quality, pleasant scent. I just wish it lasted for longer on the skin and didn't need to be reapplied as often.

perfect partners
Shower Gel, Bubble Bath, Body Lotion, Body Cream, Body Splash, Body Wash, Body Butter, Hand Cream, Antibacterial Soap, Home Fragrance, Home Fragrance Oil, Room Spray, and Scented Candle, ranging from $4.50 to $17