Most of you have probably seen the aisle dedicated to the Boots company at your local Target or CVS. For those who have not heard of this brand, the Boots website describes itself as "Britain's #1 (and oldest) health and beauty brand" and has recently launched in the US (1). The brand is extensive, offering everything from skin care to cosmetics and even has different lines to cater to different needs. For example, the Time Dimensions line focuses more on anti-aging products while the Botanics line features many plant extracts for natural benefits.

In general, there are good reviews for this company. The writers at the Kiss and Makeup Blog like the Sanctuary Hot Sugar Body Polish and also highly recommend the No. 7 Radiant Glow, as it was on their top 50 beauty products of 2006 (2). One of their writers, Charlotte Howells, compared it to YSL's Touché Eclat, "And so far the No 7 has more than lived to YSL in the coverage stakes. Like Touché Eclat, it covers black circles, hides those awful blotchy bits that appear round my nose, highlights my skin and generally makes it look a darn sight better than it did before I put it on" (3). In addition, there has been a frenzy to purchase the No. 7 Protect and Perfect Beauty Serum after it was featured on the program "Horizon" on BBC. According to the Boots website, the serum "was shown scientifically to repair photo-aged skin and improve the fine wrinkles associated with photo-aging" (4). It is said to be as effect as products only available with a prescription, and "[the researchers] were convinced that no over-the-counter anti-ageing creams could match its effectiveness" (6).

I have tried some products from the this company and have had a overall good impression of it. The Botanics eyeshadows, which are sold as individual refill pans and an empty 3-pan palette are quite nice. The colors are shimmery and quite pigmented, similar to The Body Shop's Shimmercubes. However, some shades seem to be more pigmented than others. The No. 7 4-in-1 Quick Thinking Wipes are marketed to cleanse, tone and moisterize your face in one swipe. They're great for taking your makeup off, but can leave you skin feeling a little sticky. The No. 7 Radiant Glow Foundation is a good alternative for those Revlon Skinlights lovers who are looking for a foundation with some shimmer. The Botanics Complexion Refining Foundation is supposed to control oil while brightening your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It comes with a spatula applicator which I don't like, and has a strange looking texture in the bottle. I am on the fence on this product, but perhaps I will give it another try.

In summary, this company is worth a try. The prices are very reasonable, most items are cost as much as regular drugstore items or cost a few dollars extra. Make use of the testers, and as extensive as this brand is, you're bound to find something you like!

Written by aplsmash April 29, 2007.

References:
(1)Boots - Britain's health and beauty expert, now available in the US.
(2)Kiss And Makeup: Boots at Target
(3)Kiss And Makeup: No 7 Instant Radiance Concealer
(4)Boots - Britain's health and beauty expert, now available in the US.)
(5)Scientists say Boots's No7 Protect & Perfect serum can reduce wrinkles
(6)'Real' anti-ageing cream sold out | This is Money

Image of Boots logo from:
www.ravenspharmacies.com.au/gfx/images/boots.jpg