When I signed up for Birchbox in July, I was lucky enough to have a promo code for a skincare gift. It’s been a while, but I’ve finally found time to try these bonus beauties. Here’s what I think of the products I received…

Urban Veda Radiance Exfoliating Facial Polish (£8.99 for 125ml from Birchbox) – With a delicate floral scent, I found this exfoliator delightfully refreshing. I always double cleanse to remove makeup, often with an oil-based cleanser. However, every few nights I use an exfoliator during the second wash, and when I used the Urban Veda one my skin appeared bright and refreshed. Several uses on and I’m pleased with how bright my skin appears.

One Love Organics Skin Warrior Waterless Beauty Balm (£30 for 39ml from Birchbox) – Oh boy, I have a new skincare fave! Fabulous for removing makeup, this beauty balm melts my waterproof eyeliner right off. Rinse with water and repeat and my skin is wonderfully clean with no makeup residue. The packaging says it’s also useful as a moisturiser, but I haven’t tried it that way yet. It also smells so deliciously orangey-zesty I wish I could just eat it up! A little goes a long, long way.

Coola Classic Face SPF 30 (Cucumber) (£26 for 50ml from Birchbox) – If you’ve ever been out with me in the sunshine, you’ll know just how frequently I apply – and reapply, and reapply again – sunscreen. I can easily go through an average size bottle in one day at the beach because I’d rather be pale than risk a sunburn. But whenever I use sunscreen on my face, I always get spots afterwards. Luckily, I didn’t break out when I tried this product, so next time I go on holiday (or there’s sunshine in England) I’ll be checking out the rest of Coola’s suncare range.