Its so satisfying when someone grabs me a couple of days later to declare their love for a new shampoo, or to let me know the lip balm I gave them is the one theyve been looking for their whole life. It also means I know what works and what doesnt and proves my theory that a little beauty product goes a long way (to making us happy).
Here's the latest who-loved-what from ELLE HQ:
Natasha Wray, Fashion Assistant, loved Pureology Hydrate Shine Max, £16.50.
(Available in salons nationwide from next month or available now from Matthew Alexander Bespoke Hair and Make-up; enq 020 74951122.)
Ive just had a really bad haircut thats left my already unruly hair unmanageable. I ran this through the ends of my hair before tying it back and by the end of the day, it felt softer and shiner than ever. And my hair doesnt do shine.
Abigail Radnor, Features Intern, loved Repechage Hydra Medic Face Wash, £17, and Repechage Hydra Medic Mattifying Moisturiser, £23.50. For stockists call 0800 731 7546.
Ive suffered mild adult acne for three years and nothing has ever worked so well. My spots are less angry (and fewer), my skin looks smoother and I swear its made a difference to my scarring, too. The only thing is, Im scared to stop using it!
Avril Mair, Contributing Editor, loved Kiehl's Creme de Corps Lightweight Body Lotion with SPF30, £22.02 for 250ml. Available at Space NK.
Kiehls' Creme de Corps is one of the best body lotions you can buy, but it's so rich it takes a minute or two to soak into skin. This is a lighter, more easily absorbed version, which smells yummy and has a high enough factor SPF to make you feel quite virtuous. Its going to be my summer skin must-have.
Donna Wallace, Fashion Assistant, loved Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Immediate Repair Lip Balm, £3.49 for 15ml. Available nationwide.
Lots of lip balms actually dry my lips but I put this on in the morning and by the end of the day, my cracks and chapping had disappeared.
Claire Sacre, Junior Commissioning Editor, loved Parissa Warm Wax, £12.99. Available from Amazon.
This was a cheap and easy way to stay neat and I couldnt believe how easy it was you just put the pot of wax in the microwave. I used it on my bikini line and was chuffed with what a good job I did! If I were going on holiday for more than ten days, this is what Id take.
Amy Lawrenson, Web Beauty Assistant, loved Estee Lauder Vita-Mineral Make-up, £23.
This foundation smoothed my uneven skin tone without feeling too heavy, and an SPF is always bonus. It now has pride of place in my make-up bag.