Spa Technologies Luminous Eye Serum

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"Brighten up your eyes. Formulated with Marine Extracts and a blend of Peptides and Transresveratrol to reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. Seaweed Polysaccharides firm the skin’s connective matrix and repairs sun-exposure damage to cellular DNA."

--Packaging--
The brand's characteristic double metallic band adorns this chunky glass bottle, which all makes you feel like you are getting something substantial yet sophisticated with a clear brand identity. The pump action system is efficient and easily detachable for recycling.

--Application--
Use your ring finger (why? It's got the weakest muscle of all your fingers and will pull at the delicate skin around the eye area the least) to gently rub the cream into the skin around the eye area morning and night.

--Appearance--
A translucent white cream that leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Nothing from the ingredients list particularly stands out; it just seems clean and natural.

--Texture and consistency--
Sinks into the skin instantly and feels rich and creamy without weighing the skin down.

--Effects on the skin--
Moisturises well and adds radiance too. Skin seems to regain some elasticity with dark circles being reduced.

--Value for money--
This easily competes with some high-end labels price-wise (the eye serums of Estee Lauder, Shiseido and Origins are all priced similarly), but it's still affordable, and even the tiny sample pot I was sent lasts FOREVER (I'm still using it a couple of months later!), so by my reckoning this bottle would last you a good year at least. Luxurious, utilitarian and natural? Simply brilliant.

perfect partners
Laminaria Oil, £22
Firming Booster Kit, £59.99
Skin Brightening Kit, £59.99

No7 Beautiful Eyebrows Kit

RRP: £12.50

--What does the promo say?--
"No7 Beautiful Eyebrow Kit lets you create perfectly defined brows for face-framing flattery. The combination of wax, powder and highlighter means goodbye to unruly brows. Top Tip- Try mixing the brow colours together to create your most natural shade."

--Packaging--
The ovular black compact is a little bulky, but nonetheless sophisticated in its simplicity. You are also rewarded by a generously-sized mirror, good quantities of product, and two brushes that are convenient for travel.

--Application--
My PR version arrived with no instructions, so I had to work out for myself that clumsily poking the brow brush into the wax would be an error. I resorted to applying the colour with the angled brush before smearing the wax on with my finger and using the brow brush to tidy. The highlighter seemed a little redundant for a few days, but is also easy enough to apply should you have the inclination: again, use a brush or your finger.

--Appearance--
My brows are quite dark (contrarily to my naturally blonde hair), and both colours fill in brows effectively for a bolder, more defined look without seeming artificial. Those with lighter brows might want to stick with the lighter colour only, though (although of course you can mix both colours if you like). The wax is also handy for taming unruly hairs, and the highlighter gives a nice shimmery look that is great for a summer glow without making you look like an 80s reject.

--Scent--
Nothing discernible.

--Texture and consistency--
The brow colours blend nicely without sending powder everywhere and it's easy to pick up the colour on the brush. As mentioned, the wax does its job well without weighing brows down or making them look like you've decided to apply Brylcreem to them. The highlighter also has a delicate texture - again, not feeling weighed down is so important for summer skin.

--Longevity--
Holds well throughout the day, without smudging or fading.

--Value for money--
A little goes a long way with this kit, and it's a practical purchase that travels well too. Would recommend.

perfect partners
Perfect Light Pressed Powder, £11.50
Natural Blush Tint Powder, £8

Facetheory Sensitive Toning Mist

RRP: £7.50

--What does the promo say?--
"A toner that’s tailored for sensitive skin. Specially formulated for fussy skin, Sensitive Toner T2 gives you complete treatment and protection for your skin – without the irritation and redness. And while we’ve created a light formulation, we haven’t compromised on care. With aloe vera and grapefruit oil, it’s an antiseptic, decongestant and impressive anti-ager all in one."

--Packaging--
My sample took the form of a small pot with a screw-top lid, but the green and white spray bottle is appealing for targeted use with no wastage, as well as for the colour scheme's connotations of antiseptic healing. It's also a nicely unisex concept.

--Application--
Spray onto a cotton pad and wipe over cleansed skin. Easy as.

--Appearance--
A clear, watery liquid.

--Scent--
Citric without being bitter. A natural scent overall that combines the orange and grapefruit well.

--Texture and consistency--
A watery liquid with no visible particles or viscosity.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes any excess makeup that your cleanser didn't pick up, and calms and smooths skin too.

--Value for money--
Costs less than many other toners of the same quality (and sometimes even those of lesser quality!) and has positively calming effects on the skin thanks to its natural ingredients. Would purchase the full size product.

perfect partners
Clarifying Cleanser (C2), £9.50
Supergel Moisturiser (M3), £12.50
Ultraglide Makeup Primer (P1), £1.75
100% Organic Cotton Muslin Face Cloth, £1.50

Spa Technologies Revitalising Sea Cleanser

RRP: £25

--What does the promo say?--
"A deep pore cleanser formulated with a rich paste of organic Laminaria Algae imbued with aromatic essences that revitalize the skin by stimulating micro-circulation to restore a healthy glow. Ideal for oily/congested skin types."

--Packaging--
This appears to come in a pump-action bottle, while my sample came in a tiny pot with a screw-top lid. Based on the other samples I was sent that did come in full-size pump-action bottles, it likely dispenses efficiently and the bottles from this company seem quite robust. The bottle is also not too crowded/busy in terms of writing or images, making for a sophisticated overall appearance.

--Application--
Massage a small amount into damp skin before rinsing off. Easy really.

--Appearance--
The khaki colour is not terribly appealing (even if it clearly connotes the sea), but it leaves no residue on the skin.

--Scent--
The mint comes through most strongly, which is both pleasant and unusual, as well as supporting the general notion of the refreshing cleanse.

--Texture and consistency--
Very smooth, does not lather, and washes off well.

--Effects on the skin--
Seems to visibly calm the skin in the short term, but unfortunately my sample was a bit small to be able to test any effects on my acne long-term. No signs of any irritation.

--Value for money--
Based on the immediate results of my week's sample, I would definitely be interested in investing in the full-size bottle to give it a chance to work more completely. The products I have sent have a pared-down, high-quality set of ingredients that so far seem to be doing the skin good, and I would thus recommend this cleanser to those with acneic skin.

perfect partners
Marine Serum, £35
Vitamin C Mist, from £15
Spot Cure, £14.95

Spa Technologies SPF45 Tinted Moisturiser

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"This silky-smooth Tinted Moisturiser protects delicate skin with fortified Antioxidants and reflects the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 45. It is formulated with the added benefit of Mineral Makeup creating a flawless base and even skin tone."

--Packaging--
This convenient pump-action bottle is decorated with a double band of metallic blue, which helps to give the brand a clear identity. Blue is also an unusual packaging colour in the world of foundation and the glass bottle means that you can always see how much you have left - a definite bonus.

--Application--
After washing your face, apply over primer to commence your makeup routine. Add concealer and powder as necessary to complete your base before proceeding to other makeup.

--Appearance--
Is pale upon emerging from the bottle, but on the face provides no coverage whatsoever.

--Scent--
The cucumber extract comes through strongly, which is unusual and not at all unpleasant.

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and creamy without weighing the skin down. It also doesn't add white streaks to your face like conventional sunscreen. In that respect it's the best sunscreen I've ever used, whether commercial or natural - it's like using a luxurious face cream rather than the traditional, medicinal 'creaming up' process before going into the sun.

--Effects on the skin--
Given the raft of natural antioxidant and sun-protecting ingredients present in this cream, I have no doubt that you could expect anti-ageing effects over time and that you would avoid sun damage as well. However, as a tinted moisturiser it does not fulfil the brief due to the non-existent coverage. However, I acknowledge that I have acneic skin, and so that this may not be suitable for my needs.

--Value for money--
If I were looking for a tinted moisturiser that offered me coverage as well as protection I would be sorely disappointed to pay £35 for this as it does not keep its promise of creating a "flawless base". However, it's the best sunscreen I've ever used - perfect for the delicate skin on the face, and natural too, with a beautiful consistency, that without doubt protects you from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Price-wise it competes well with other brands offering natural sunscreen such as BareMinerals, as well as luxury brands such as Obagi and Kiehl's. For this reason, I would definitely shell out my hard-earned for it.

perfect partners
Spot Mask Treatment, £35
Restore Kit, £80

Refresh Peptide + Intense Eye Recovery Serum

RRP:£48.50

--What does the promo say?--

"• CLINICALLY PROVEN to really work. Studies show after 8 weeks a 42% improvement in skin texture, 35% reduction in dark circles, and a 31% reduction in puffiness around the eyes. As well, tissue samples show a 200% increase in fibroblasts (collagen-producing cells) and significantly improved capillary circulation

• AIRLESS PUMP Precision applicator maximizes eye serum effectiveness – product stays sealed, extending product lifetime, eliminating waste or spills

• REDUCES INFLAMMATION and UV DAMAGE

• SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES Non-irritating, fragrance-free gentle cooling eye treatment contains no artificial colors, parabans, sulfates, alcohol, or preservatives

• THIS EYE SERUM is Vegan, Cruelty-free, 100% natural botanical extracts"

--Packaging--

The syringe-style packaging is very evocative of plastic surgery, which won't appeal to everyone. Even though to a degree it allows for efficient application, with little wastage, I'd still say it dispenses more than needed, so there's definitely room for it to be even more precise (one pump yields enough not just for the eyes but for lines on the forehead and around the lips too).

--Application--

As mentioned above, just one pump of the syringe is all it takes. Dispense the product onto your ring finger and then massage around the eye area.

--Appearance--

A translucent gel that is a slightly dark but still natural green/yellow/brown colour, evocative of the seaweed it contains, which doesn't make it offputting. It also leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--

None at all, despite the seaweed.

--Texture and consistency--

A thin gel that holds its shape and is not too runny, while still not being at all sticky. It is very easy to blend in and leaves no feeling of dryness, stickiness, tautness or tugging once fully absorbed.

--Effects on the skin--

The results promised on the website are for 8 weeks' usage, but after even less than that, I can confidently report increased brightness and a smoother appearance of the skin around the eye area.

--Value for money--

While £48.50 may just make your wallet cry, this product could turn out to be very good value - not just for its efficacy, but also for its precise dispensation system: I've been using mine for weeks and barely made a dent in it yet. This pricing is also on a par with other leading premium brands: Lancôme, Dr Brandt, Origins, YSL and Strivectin all charge similar amounts for their eye serums. So despite a few minor shortcomings, this product does indeed come highly recommended, and I'll definitely be checking out the brand's products for acneic skin, too. 

perfect partners

Reveal Pre-Peel Pore Rose Glow Cleanser, £22.50

Lactic Acid 10% Gel Peel? £29.50

Restore Hyaluronic Moisturising Cream, £24.95

Radox Creamy Shower Wash

RRP: £2.15

--What does the promo say?--
"Want to transform body and mind? Look no further than the new Radox Creamy range, there to put you in the mood no matter how you want to feel. Bursting with fresh fragrances to transform your mood, try one of the new creamy variants."

--Packaging--
The ergonomic shape, and downward-facing flip-top lid, are all practical for daily shower use, even with slippery hands. The white bottle is also nicely contrasted by the bright, eye-catching colours, which also nicely reflect the fragrance in question.

--Application--
Squeeze a 50p-sized amount into your palm and lather up. Smooth over skin before rinsing. Simple :)

--Appearance--
In all cases, the lotion is white and possibly slightly translucent before foaming into a rich creamy lather. This is easy to rinse off when you want to, and leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--
All of the four available scents are distinct and generally deliver on the promises made. My favourites were the romantic (orchid and blueberry) and pampered (shea and ginger), while another BBB tester spoke highly of the calm fragrance (jojoba and camomile). The rejuvenating fragrance, ironically, was a little more lacklustre, smelling more of peach than anything else. Even though the orange oil was detectable, it could have come through more strongly. Nonetheless, all would help to intensify the emotions on their bottles. I always feel pampered when taking a bath at my parents' place (no bath in my teeny flat!), so I would love for that to be available in bubble bath and body butter versions too. The rejuvenating one would be great for the mornings (although I'm a morning person anyway!), and the calming one for the evenings. I'd be happy to use the romantic one whenever I wanted to catch my husband's eye: it's a lovely rich fragrance that isn't too heavy, and one which would hopefully cast his mind back to when we first met (in Paris - only reputed to be the most romantic city on earth!), echoing the sweetness of the Sauternes wine that we drank on our first night together. Sadly I can't remember what perfume I wore...

--Texture and consistency--
 As mentioned, lovely and creamy, and lathers up well. Stays on the skin for as long as you like, but rinses off easily when needed.

--Effects on the skin--
Genuinely seems to moisturise the skin deeply and in a long-lasting way. Very impressive.

--Value for money--
At £2.15 a bottle, it's definitely affordable, and there should definitely be a scent to suit everyone here. Would recommend.

YouGlo WOW Mask

RRP: £100 for 5, or £21 for one
available from www.youglo.co.uk

--What does the promo say?--
"Institute Hyalual Switzerland, a scientific research centre dedicated to skin rejuvenation, created the mask as the simplest and most effective way to combine the moisturising effect of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Argireline (famed for its skin firming properties) and RMCP-complex (a combination of ingredients that include fruit and leaf cell culture and flower extract).  It’s the interaction between HA, Argireline and RMCP-complex which results in such a complete anti-ageing effect. The mask also uses newly developed Transdermal Cosmetics Delivery technology which is activated by skin temperature to allow the ingredients to reach the deeper layers of skin.  This means that WOW mask provides 200% more hydration than other collagen-based moisturising treatments."

--Packaging--
The sleek foil sachet contains a mask that comes in two pieces. Each piece is folded in half, and once unfolded, each piece cuts across the middle of the face, just below the nose. However, this is slimy and difficult to peel apart, meaning that longer and thinner packaging would be better if it meant the mask did not have to come folded. The mask itself is made from white and clear plastic.

--Application--
After cleansing, peel off one side of the mask and place on the face. Then peel off the rest of the plastic so that only the gel mask remains. This is not an easy feat, because the mouth and eye holes are awkwardly placed, meaning you have to fix it to the contours of your face and then push it down so that full contact is made with the skin. Some areas around the eye do not have gel on them, meaning that some areas particularly prone to wrinkles are missed. The same is also true of the upper lip, where ageing can be most visible. You then need to leave the mask on for 20-40 minutes.

--Appearance--
Once you've got the white and clear plastic off, the mask itself is a transparent jelly, which leaves a slimy gel on the face that needs to be rinsed off once the 20-40 minutes is up.

--Scent--
A mild, inoffensive, natural scent.

--Effects on skin--
In the short term, skin feels moisturised and silky. However, no real long-term effects were noted.

--Sensation and texture--
The gel is slimy and solid and this ultimately creates an unpleasant, almost psychosomatic 'itching' feeling arising from just waiting to remove it. Does not cool, warm or tighten like many other face masks. It did dry out a little, but still retained a lot of moisture.

--Value for money--
While at £20.99 for one mask this is an affordable purchase for the evident short-term effects, you need to be seriously loyal to invest £100. It's possible that if the brand sold these in patches to target specific facial areas, or sold a variety of whole-face masks for different face shapes, they could sell more, especially as packaging also needs to be looked at for easier usability. Ultimately has potential, but needs work to make it even more marketable.

Ova-coming ovarian cancer with Barry M

Despite periods being every woman's common problem, it's something we rarely discuss (for what it's worth, I'm a Mooncup girl, so feel free to shout if you have any questions about those!). Perhaps more seriously, we don't discuss part of what causes us to have periods - our ovaries. This is serious because it's estimated that 5%-10% of women suffer with polycystic ovary syndrome (and the real number could actually be even higher due to lack of awareness), which can cause fertility problems as well as many other undesirables, including acne and hirsutism (again, I'm your go-to for questions on this syndrome). Furthermore, ovarian cancer is the seventh most-common cancer and the eighth most common cause of deaths from cancer, with five-year survival rates being just 45% in the US (and worse in developing countries). Again, lack of awareness and a lack of willingness to discuss it are factors in how early diagnoses can be made, enabling the illness to be treated sooner and survival rates to thus increase. 

Every little step taken to do this is therefore a move in the right direction. Ovarian cancer support charity Ovacome is therefore delighted to be partnering with cosmetics brand Barry M on its Teal Tips initiative, in which willing volunteers (male or female!) are invited to paint their nails in the brand's new green-blue shade (entitled Pacific, and shown to the right-hand side of this paragraph). This metallic effect colour is sure to turn heads and provoke discussion during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month (in March).

So how can we start the conversation, and most importantly, keep it going? Just remember Ovacome's acronym, BEAT: B is for bloating (that does not come and go), E is for eating less and feeling fuller quicker, A is for abdominal pain, and T is for telling your GP. You could also hold manicure and pedicure parties, with the polish as a centrepiece. And why not ask your local salon to fundraise by promoting nail treatments using this colour?

The Pacific nail polish, from the Aquarium collection, costs just £3.99 - and if you buy it during February or March, Barry M will donate half of the cost of all purchases made via www.barrym.com to Ovacome. However, the outcome could be far more valuable than a mere four quid - so all the more reason to get talking with teal tips.

Natracare Organic Makeup Removal Wipes

RRP: £3.99 for 20

--What does the promo say?--
"Rule number one of a good skincare regime is to cleanse the skin properly, removing all make-up and grime. The last thing you want is a product that could be putting more on to your skin than it is taking off. Unlike conventional wipes, we use only the best organic and natural ingredients, making them incredibly gentle on your skin. Infused with the organic essential oils of almond, apricot and chamomile, Natracare Cleansing Make-Up Removal Wipes leave your skin moisturised, cleansed and refreshed naturally. The soft and strong organic cotton cloth is gentle but effective, removing even waterproof mascara and lipstick. Formulated for sensitive skin, the wipes are dermatologically and opthalmologically tested and free from all the types of ingredients women have ever been concerned about putting on their skin."

--Packaging--
The blue, purple and white colour combination of the plastic pouch is refreshing and feminine. Furthermore, the pouch opens and closes securely throughout the product lifespan, not losing stickiness at all as time passes.

--Usage--
Sweep one wipe over face and neck to remove makeup, using both sides of the wipe to ensure thorough makeup removal.

--Appearance--
The wipes are white, and the lotion they are soaked in is invisible, meaning minimum fuss.

--Scent--
An overriding citrus scent thanks to the oranges, lemons and bergamot, which adds to the wipes' refreshing character.

--Texture and consistency--
The organic cotton wipes are smooth and non-irritating, yet have enough of a slightly raised texture to gently scrub skin, enabling makeup removal.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes makeup just as well as any conventional makeup removal wipe I've tried, and maybe even better - it even does a great job on mascara.

--Value for money--
At £3.99 for 20 wipes, it therefore comes to around 20p per wipe, which is about standard (and even more commendable given the high-quality, organic provenance of these wipes' ingredients, as well as their robust packaging). It also competes favourably price-wise with high street brands (Boots, Simple, Soap & Glory, Clearasil and L'Oréal all charge about the same, for example). This product's only weak point is perhaps its lack of availability: with its main suppliers being online, you have to put in a little more effort to seek it out. Nevertheless, despite being sent mine for free this time, I would still spend my money on them in future. A great product that truly sets an example to others in terms of both quality and ethics.