Beauty buzz
From body scrubs to face creams, we've tested a range of products that boast botanical properties and inspirations.
Crabtree & Evelyn's Lily Bath and Shower Gel (HK$225/250ml) and Lily Body Lotion (HK$245/245ml) are made with peony, white magnolia and elder flower. The shower gel is quite thick, but you still need to use a large amount. The body lotion contains shea butter and coconut oil, and again, quite a lot is needed to cover the body. The smell is fantastic, however, and skin feels silky and soft after use. Available at all Crabtree & Evelyn stores.
L'Occitane's Angelica Eye Roll-On (HK$220/10ml) and Angelica Hydration Cream (HK$360/50ml) are made with oil extracted from angelica root. The roll-on has a runny consistency but is absorbed straight away and instantly refreshes the skin around the eyes. For those moments when you need an extra boost, store it in the fridge and apply cold. The face cream has a thick texture but feels light and non-greasy once applied. It's also absorbed immediately and leaves skin feeling refreshed. Available at all L'Occitane stores.
Panpuri's Rose Absolute Hand Cashmere Cream (HK$320/3x25ml tubes) has a thick, velvety texture and hands feel soft and hydrated for hours after application. The cream is enriched with olive and damascena rose extracts, giving it a distinct scent that's not too sweet and lingers on skin for hours. We love the fact it's made using only natural, plant-based and hypoallergenic ingredients. Available at Lane Crawford stores.
Aesop's Geranium Leaf Body Scrub (HK$250/170ml) is a body exfoliant made with milled pumice, bamboo stem and geranium-leaf oil. The scrub has a gooey, gel-like texture that's gentle on skin and has a fresh, uplifting scent. Use with water and it creates a lather that makes it fast and easy to apply over the entire body. Skin instantly feels smooth and soft. Use a moisturising cream straight after the scrub, when the skin is primed for hydration. Available at all Aesop stores.
