I love my products, clearly, but in summer I scale back a bit. My handbag is more likely to hold juice cartons, balls, suncream and hats that my children will refuse to wear, which leaves little space for much else. So there's lots to be said for carrying a multipurpose moisturising balm: a little pot or tube of non-specific emollient to be smeared on as a glossy balm for lips, a soother for prickly heat, bites and grazes, a moisturiser for dry patches and sunburn, and as a serviceable handcream. There are hundreds out there so many that I feel bad that my favourite is still Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream (£26): it's been around for so long now, it can't be news to anyone. What you may not know, though, is that it's now available in an unscented formula, so you no longer have to tolerate that signature citronella aroma, which is reminiscent of wood polish.
Eight Hour is different in that it contains beta hydroxy acid, to de-flake lips and calm zits, but there are other balms I love, too. This Works Turbo Balm (£12) is a firm favourite, as is the wonderful Lanolips 101 Ointment (£11.22). All mix perfectly with lipstick to create a sheer, summery wash of colour for mouth and cheeks.
Continue reading...