I have a confession. I am a body lotion addict. Ever since I can remember I’ve religiously slathered myself from head to toe in an effort to keep my skins as soft as the proverbial baby’s derrière and keep the evils of stretch marks and rough knees and suchlike on their toes. At Christmas when a distant relative gives you a bundle of ‘smellies’ that includes a non-decsript ‘hand and body’ lotion, many people never use this. I did. Always. To the last drop. To me, the act of rubbing body lotion into your skin after a shower is like giving yourself a little regular massage. Wonderful.
So, as you can imagine, I was eager to try a recently launched Hydrating Body Lotion that promised to deliver a ‘fresh approach to caring for the skin’ by new Brit beauty brand Connock London.
Founded by Amanda Connock, Connock London incorporates little known, exotic natural ingredients that have been used in their native countries since the year dot. This, their first line-up (that also includes a rather fabulous Body Wash) is based on Kukui Oil, sourced from a small factory on the Hawaiian island of Oahu (the Connock family has worked with this supplier for over 20 years). Apparently, Kukui Oil has been used by Hawaiians for centuries to keep skin soft and smooth. Traditionally, new born babies were bathed in it as a means of protection against the harsh sun, drying winds and salt water. It has outstanding skin-conditioning properties, improving skin suppleness and elasticity as well as soothing minor skin irritations without leaving a greasy film on the skin. The oil contains very high levels of essential fatty acids linoleic and alpha-linoleic acid which can provide effective treatment for the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, dry skin and acne.
The Kukui Oil Hydrating Body Lotion also contains Shea Butter and Macademia Oil, which are said to reduce the visible signs of ageing.
WE LOVE: The Lotion has a delicate but entrancing fragrance. When I’d used it on my hands I couldn’t help returning to smell it again and again. It is whisper-light in texture, gliding on and melting in quickly whilst leaving no stickiness (a sign of high quality ingredients). It does leave skin feeling noticeably soft, even several hours after application. The large, square-ish container should last a decent amount of time, making this a product worth investing in. Great winter skin-saver and probably ideal for staving off stretch marks in pregnancy or post weight-loss. All in all, very much recommended.
NOT CRAZY ABOUT: No local stockists at the time this was written (only available online or in London).
Connock London’s Kukui Oil Hydrating Body Lotion (300ml) is £32.70 from www.connocklondon.co.uk.