Dove Spa

Application: This is a liquid of a watery consistency, similar to a toner. As the bottle has a narrow nozzle, it was easy to drip out just the right amount onto a cotton wool pad. I swept the liquid over my face, and followed it with a light moisturiser.

What's in it? Lime tree, calendula

Effect: After I had used the product daily for a week, I didn't notice any dramatic results (my spots had not miraculously disappeared) but I did notice that my skin looked a little brighter and clearer, especially around my nose and chin.

Verdict: Good for keeping oily, blemish-prone skin looking fresh, but not a miracle solution for spots.

Application: Shake the bottle so that the liquids combine, then dampen cotton wool pads and sweep over the eye area, avoiding rubbing.

What's in it?: Vitamins A and E, liquorice.

Effect: The first line on the back of the bottle states "This make-up remover delivers a surprisingly effortless performance" and I am just thrilled that it really does -- it took such little effort to remove every last hint of make-up. This product is for all skin types and is not too greasy. The remover left the delicate skin around my eyes conditioned and moisturised. It's suitable for contact lens wearers, and it had no adverse effects on my sensitive eyes.

Verdict: My new bathroom staple makes removing eye make-up an effortless experience, even for the most sensitive of eyes. I'm currently awaiting delivery of the next bottle!

Application: The light cream absorbed easily and I was pleased with the immediate matte effect it gave. I was less impressed by the unappealing scent.

What's in it? Milk peptides, cholesterol, panthenol, green tea extract, vitamin E.

Effect: While my skin is quite dry in places, my overall skin type is combination, and I'm keen to keep the sheen off the shinier parts, so decided to use the cream at night only on drier areas. Having used it for a couple of weeks now it does seem to have improved the drier areas when used in this way.

Verdict: A product that will it suit someone with very dry skin only.

Application: I applied the cleanser to my damp face and neck twice daily, working it into my skin with my fingertips using small circular motions, then wiping it away with damp cotton wool pads. I only needed a small amount per application so the bottle lasted a long time.

What's in it? Liquorice, chamomile and panthenol.

Effect: After two weeks of use I noticed a marked improvement to the overall texture of my skin, especially around the usually dry areas (forehead and cheeks). My skin felt balanced, and had a delicate glow.

Verdict: A rich cleanser which cleans and moisturises at an affordable price.

Application: The small vials have a tapered tip for easy application. The minimal instructions advise you rub the concentrate on your stomach in circular motions with a little pat at the end to ensure it all went in. Simples.

What's in it? "Lipolytic Complex" which contains Arabica coffee seed extract, ilex leaf extract, evening primrose oil and omega 6.

Effect: I can't say that I noticed any improvement in skin tone, no streamlining of the abdominal area and not a whiff of reduced volume around my waistline. However, the cream left my skin feeling soft, and made me realise that I don't pay enough attention to my stomach (apart from feeding it!) All this rubbing of the stomach will help tone a bit, so in that respect it's a good product. It does make you spend some time caring for an oft-neglected part of your body.

Verdict: A good intensive moisturiser that didn't meet any contouring expectations. I can hear the gym calling -- no miracles here!