NOW CLOSED Halos N Horns product test feedback thread

[KatieBMumsnet]

This thread is for the 200 Mumsnetters who are trying out the Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash with their DC. Below are some questions to get you started but please feel free to leave any other comments you may have too. Everyone who adds their comments to this thread will be entered into a prize draw to win a bundle of baby and toddler educational bath toys and a children's digital camera (RRP £105).

Questions

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Thank you for taking part and good luck with the prize draw!
MNHQ

Q1.
I liked the packaging. The tube made it a bit different to what I usually buy.

Q2.
My dd in the trial is only 16m. She liked holding the bottle in the bath!

Q3.
I was happy with it. I only needed a small amount to wash my dd2. It lathered fine in her hair. Her body is only small so a small amount was fine to wash her all over too. I used to correct amount on her hair and body to start with.
It wasn't so great for my dd1 (age 6) as her hair is long and I had to add a bit more several times - but she's not really in the trial anyway!

Q4.
I think the fragrance could be zingyer! I do quite like a strong fragrance in my shampoos and shower gels. But understand that its a natural product and so may be harder to get stronger smells.
I love lime smelling products so would go for that as a fragrace first. I also like mango and strawberry which you already do.

Q5.
As I said - It could smell stronger!

Q6.
I would definately use this product again, but probably won't buy it unless I find it on offer! My dd2 does not suffer from sensitive skin and is fine with cheaper products on the market so to be honest I will probably stick with them for financial reasons.

Q7.
Yes I would. Especially to friends with children with sensitive skin. Its a good product and we will enjoy finishing the tube!

Q1. First impression was that the product is very large and clearly good value for money. I liked the packaging but would have preferred a screw cap as our 13 mo DS can open flip lids and so it was a bit of a battle of wills to use the product and keep it either out of his sight or reach before he emptied it in the bath or cried as we wouldn't give it to him. Also the corners on the top of the crimped edge are sharp.

Q2. Our DS was very attracted to the product - see above - not sure that was a good thing though!

Q3. The product is great, a little goes a long way and it is very thick so easy to use on a wriggly baby without wasting any. It left DS's hair looking lovely and shiny, I did need to use conditioner a couple of times as his hair felt a little dry after a week of use but then that's to be expected and is the same as every other shampoo I've tried.

I started out using too much of the wash but i think that's because it comes out rather quick and our DS is only little.

Q4. The main problem for me was the fragrance, it simply didn't smell orangey, to me it smelt very synthetic and chemically and, if anything, a little almondy. Thankfully it wasn't strong and didn't last on DS's hair. I also made the effort to smell the berry version at the supermarket and its fragrance was exactly the same. I didn't like the smell. Either an un-fragranced version or a more 'natural' smell would be much better.

Q5. As mentioned above, the smell could be better and a screw top would be better for us at the moment but I can see a flip top is probably easier for use on older children.

Q6. I did really like the product apart from the smell so would probably use it again as the scent doesn't last on skin or hair.

Q7.I would recommend it as it is very good value and doesn't contain any 'nasties'. In my opinion it is as good as much more expensive organic ranges and much, much better value.

Overall really glad we tried the wash, thank you!

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
I found the orange smell a bit strong but the children loved it. Nice packaging and the liquid flowed out at the right rate.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?
My one year old tried to drink it. My 5 year old had hoped for more bubbles with it, but they played very happily in it.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Yes, cleaned very well, and performed beautifully on hair. My daughter (1) has flyaway fine hair and this made it shiny and thicker. They also slept very well afterwards/

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
Not so keen on orange, to be honest. I'd prefer lavender, chamomile, vanilla.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
Packaging fine.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, depending on price.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes for being effective on hair and calming them down.

Don't know what I was on about! Clearly I don't have to screw the end back on every time I use it.... But you do have to think about close it rather than just plonking on the side, which is a pita.

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

I liked the packaging, it was nice and bright + all the information was clear. There was nothing I didn't like. I
Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

My DS loved the smell but tbh didn't care too much as I'd imagine most 3 year old might think.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

It was easy to use. I liked how you didnt need to use a huge amount to get him clean.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

I thought the smell was gorgeous - I would use it myself!

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

Maybe travel sizes would be handy for swimming or going away. I liked the packaging but would maybe emphasise the free-from ingredients.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I would use it again. I thought it was very successful and would like to try other products in the range.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I would, if it came up in conversation + for all the reasons above.

Thanks for letting us try it

Apologies for the delay in leaving feedback - I've not been around for bathtime much this week!

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

Like the style of the packaging. Is more 'kids' and less 'baby' so nicer for DS(4) than the usual 'baby' stuff or 'boring' stuff (sanex 0%) that we usually use. Find use of the term 'little devils' annoying and unnecessary, and it seems to be used a lot! Also picked up on the whole boys = devils girls = angels stereotype which I disliked. Text Speak on the back - why???

My favourite thing about the product is the lack of 'nasties', although I don't think this is made very clear on the packaging. I wouldn't see it on a shelf and be drawn to it as a SLS/Paraben free option - if this were made clearer on the front of the packaging I'd be more inclined to pick it up.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS said he liked the smell and the hand on the front. He also like squeezing the bottle

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Cleaned skin well, not so keen on using it as a shampoo. Left DD's hair feeling dry and knotty. Didn't really have trouble using 'the right amount' although with DS squeezing it's hard not to get too much, whatever product we're using!

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

Definitely not 'zingy', I thought it was a bit bland, but nice enough. Would like to see Apple, coconut or honey & almond

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

See response to Q1

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

If it were on offer, I'd consider it. Would not pay extra for the fact that it's a 2 in 1 body/hair wash as I wouldn't use it as a shampoo again.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, because of the lack of 'nasties' in it.

Through this test I've also been reminded of the power of proofreading. Now, where is the embarrassed emoticon?

[bblush]

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
We all really liked it, the scent is fresh and lasting but not overpowering. I like the fact it doesn't lather up too much.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?
DD's loved the smell and the fact it was brightly coloured, they have asked for it again as it made a nice change from the usual boring stuff.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?
DD's were very clean with lovely smelling, soft hair afterwards with little morning frizziness. It did dry my hands slightly but their skin was perfect.
Consistency was just right, needed a squirt each for one clean child.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
See Answer 1.
A sort of clean baby /suncream /coconut /vanilla combination!

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
Packaging is clear and easy to read at a glance.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
Would buy again, didn't need to use too much so should be very economical.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, would recommend on basis of fresh smelling product with no nasties at a good price.

Q1. What were your fist impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
Attractively packaged and pleasant smell. Easy to dispense. I have my doubts about the branding though - especially the "devilish" strapline.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product
DD (3) immediately liked the packaging and the colours and was keen to get upstairs for her bath to try it out. She liked the colour and smell and enjoyed bathtime with it.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?
The product does a good job. We were using the right amount until I turned my back to deal with DD2 and DD1 emptied the rest of the tube into the bath. She was very pleased with the resulting bubbles but if I bought the product I'd want it to last longer than four days.!

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
DD would like strawberry. I think a pink princess branded one would go down very well with her (if less so with me!). How about Halos and Crowns!?

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

The branding as mentioned above. I really don't like messages on kids things that imply that it's normal for them to behave in a nightmarish way.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes
Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes - it's a good product. Next time I would be careful to dispense some and then put the tube out of reach though.

Can I add that DS co-sleeps with us and I love waking up next to his head nestled into my arm smelling of this fragrance. It is a much nicer smell than Johnson's.

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
I've seen this in the supermarket before, so not exactly first impressions. I think the packaging design is a bit brash and the 'pink - halos, blue - horns, little devils etc' pretty corny, so it wouldn't attract me to the product. Other products have more attractive designs. It doesn't seem the right design for a 'natural' product either. I think more should be made of the natural ingredients on the front of the container.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?
DS is only 2, so didn't express an opinion. He did try to lick it off the flannel so it must have smelt quite nice to him! I wouldn't say it made bath time more fun but he did like to play with the container in the bath.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?
The product performed well. It was easy to use but took more rinsing than other products.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
The fragrance is quite nice and subtle. I don't like strong fragrances. Suggestions for other fragrances would be mint, strawberry or apple.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
I think the product is fine. I'd suggest changing the packaging as per Q1.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, if it's priced competitively.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, it performed well and contains fewer 'nasties' than similar products.

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried? The tube was bigger than I was expecting! I've seen it on supermarket shelves, but it always seemed much smaller,and therefore more expensive (for the price IYKWIM). Nice bright orange accents, clearly named, too.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not? They both liked the fact that it was something new to try, DS even wanted to scrub himself with the body puff, when usually he's a soap avoiding champion!

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right? It cleaned both DCs fine, but there is a bit of trial and error with amounts, and if you don't get enough on the sponge/body puff first time, it's a tad slippery to re-squeeze the tube with wet hands!

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use? I was SOOOO looking forward to this bit, but unfortunately I was massively disappointed. [bsad] It took a while for me to place the smell....then it hit me. It smells to me like those white toilet cleaner blocks they used to have at primary school. (Sorry Halos & Horns!). I usually love citrussy smells, so lime/lemon would be great, as would mint.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how? See above for slippery tube and smell. Maybe a pump would solve the slippery tube problem?

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not? I'd probably use it again if only because the DCs like it. The problem smell doesn't linger on the children, it's just the stuff itself as it comes out of the tube.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not? I would recommend it - it does the job of cleaning the children without any dramas from them, so it must be doing something right!

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

250ml tube was very generous however dont think it will last long as they (dc) tend to play with the tube in the shower and inevitably use too much. Nice idea to have a flip top like many adult shower gels BUT this is used by children (of whom many ignore the concept of 'that's enough').

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes threy both liked the shower gel - having their own one and not using mummies one. Didn't necessarily make it 'more fun'. If 'fun' is what you are after, maybe a bubble bath might be more suitable? I tend to view showers as quick and functional whereas baths are relaxing and fun.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Found the product a bit thick and gloopy to be honest. Had to rinse well to get it all off as opposed to none coming out....

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

Had high expectations for the fragrance but unfortunately was disappointed, even rechecked the ingredients as did smell artifical. Did not 'zing' like a citrus smell should.
Maybe try an apple fragrance? But again am thinking bubble bath. Chocolate and banana bubbles?

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
Definetely do not like the brading 'halos and horns' - it's awful and not something I would normally buy. Not aspirational for children or parents, stereo typing of children also.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
Not sure - gloopy and weird smell...the more I think about it.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Well I wouldn't say not to buy it....I wouldn't actively recommend it either. Ambivalent towards it really.

Thank you for the free sample though!

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

Nice packaging, suitable for all children rather than being all pastel colours and looking very 'baby'

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS is one so dont think he particularly noticed! He did enjoying chewing the tube though

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

I found the none lathering quite annoying - felt like I had to 'scrub' DS more (trying to get dried on weetabix off!) than I would if there had been more bubbles/foam and that felt wrong on baby skin. I used quite a lot trying to get a lather too.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

As others thought 'zingy' was a bit misleading as it wasnt a very 'sharp' smell at all....'fruity' or 'fresh' orange etc may have been more accurate. I didnt think the smell 'held' well either, couldnt smell it on DS's hair the morning after. I think an 'Original Source' type baby/children range would be nice in terms of smells.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

I think the smell could be stronger/longer lasting and for it to foam better. I did like the packaging and think a tube is better than a bottle for opening/dispensing one-handed which when its bathtime I seem to need! Harder to see how much is left though - maybe a clear strip in the packing to measure this?

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS has some patches of dry skin and they were not irritated by this as some other products have so in that respect, yes I would. Again for the use of no chemicals etc I prefer the thought of using this on my baby than using other products.
However, I'd probably only use it for a 'fun, quick freshen up' bath rather than a serious 'you're covered in food/pen/sticky unidentifiable mess' bath as I didnt like the having to scrub him which I dont feel happens with other products.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, for the reasons above but would have to take price/stockists availability into account

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

I like the fact that it comes in a soft tube rather than a plastic bottle- makes it easier for packing on holiday and taking to swimming classes etc. I think the colours are bright and appealing to children.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

My boys both really liked it. I think the orange smell makes it appealing to children. Also, again the fact that it is in a tube means my oldest boy (8) is quite capable of putting it on his own hair and shampooing etc.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

I think it cleans really well and I dont think you need to use too much of it so it should last quite a while. It leaves hair so soft and shiny and smells lovely. It is also kind to skin. One of my DS has very dry skin and this product was fine. It definitely doesnt sting eyes or irritate them in any way at all.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

I liked it. I think any recognisable fruity smell would be popular with children.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

I'm not sure whether or not it could be used as a bubble bath too. That would make it really useful as you wouldnt have to purchase any other products.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

I will definitely start buying it now, it was a big hit.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

I would definitely recommend this product.

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
Eye catching graphics, a nice sized tube. The 'no nasties' is particaualrly important to me as a mum of two children with sensitive skin and eczema. I'm also concerned about the possible long term effects of some chemicals, so have always tried to stay natural where possible. We've used the Halos baby wash before ( it was recommended to me by my midwife when DS was small) and some of the Waitrose own brand baby bath. We've struggled to find something without SLS, parabens etc that looks a bit more 'grown up' for four year old DS, who thinks that the baby wash is more suited to his two year old sister!

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

They both loved it, especially trying to squeeze the tube themselves (all of it if they could!). They loved the 'gloopyness' of it, and the colour. I can see the empty tube being recycled into a good water squisher too. They had a happy squabble deciding who wore the Halo and who wore the Horns, and DS took the testing of it's bubble making abilities very seriously. DD calls it the 'zingzillas orange' , so a hit all round!

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

It got them both squeaky clean, and smelling lovely. The gel like texture made it easy to dispense the right amount onto a flannel, and once you get used to the idea that the super lather of most products is because of the harsh detergents in them, you accept a few less bubbles for kindness to skin. We've also barely made a dent in the tube, dispite using it for two grubby urchins, so a little goes a long way. It even got my hair nce and clean during a shared bathtime.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
I think the smell is very pleasant and natural (a lot better than most!). A few other smells could be nice for a change, but I personally associate the fragrance of the Halos baby wash ( which is very similar) with my childrens babyhood, so am rather fond of it!
I also think a distinctive fragrance builds a strong association with a brand - I still link the smell of my late grandmother's lavender products with happy memories for example.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
Not really, I personally prefer the squeezy tube, although agree that a pump option might be good.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
It'll be used gain here for sure. It did the job very well, smells lovely, and goes a long way. My only question is about availability, we have a large co-op nearby with a huge range of products, but I've never seen Halos in there, so will have to online shop for it.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I have a few friends who are loyal to the big brands, yet say that they dry their DC's skin out, so I wouldn't hesitate to suggest Halos to them. In fact, any chance of developing an adult version for me too??

Q1. I liked it - good size tube which is great to pack in the bag for using after swimming

Q2. He liked the colour of the lid (it's orange and that is his favourite colour!) and he likes playing with anything in a tube. Although, I think he may have been able to get the lid open so didn't let him have it for too long as I didn't want to waste it!)

Q3. Have used it both in the shower after swimming and in his bath. Found that it foamed up well and got him clean. Like others have said, it would be easier to use in a pump bottle as it could be used one handed

Q4. I liked the fragrance, it wasn't too overpowering, but didn't smell babyish either. Apple, lime and mint would all be good fragrances

Q5. Again, having it in a pump bottle would be easier for use one handed and perhaps different sizes i.e. a larger one which could be used at home in the bath and a smaller travel size for use after swimming/when away etc.

Q6. Yes, I would use it again.

Q7. I would probably mention it and say that it was good and that it worked well.

Just wanted to add that I really don't like the txt spk on the back of the tube, it looks ridiculous!

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

Firstly, I was very impressed the size of the product, but I did think that the packaging, although bold and bright, could be a little more exciting.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS really liked the smell as he says it smells like fruit juice, he was also very excited to have his very own special soap, which he has been describing as the 'soap with the ooh face and the happy face'

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

The product performed really well, DS is 3 and likes to put soap on himself, the product lathered well so he was able to (mostly) cover himself, and he smelt lovely afterwards. I found it very easy to get the right amount out of the squeezy bottle with very little wastage.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

I was unsure of the fragrance at first, when smelling it in the bottle, as I am used to using stronger smelling products but it did smell lovely whilst I was using it. I do think it has a more natural and mild fragrance than other products I have tried. DS loved it though. I think other fruity fragrances such as apple, cherry or blackcurrant would be lovely.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

I think the packaging could be more exciting for children, maybe with more colorful pictures.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I would, depending on retail price. I love the fact that it is sls/ paraben free but still really effective.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I already have!

I tested this with DS (2.11). We have used it now for 5 nights in the shower as body wash and have also used it as shampoo once. In the normal course of things, we only use a mild soap daily in the shower (after finding other products exacerbated his mild baby eczema) and a shampoo for hair washing once a week.

Q1. What were your fist impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

First impressions of the product were bright attractive packaging, which is likely to stand out on a supermarket shelf. I don't particularly like the 'txt speak' used - I don't think it is necessary. I also don't like the 'Halos n Horns' branding, particularly given the angel/devil graphics used in gender stereotypical colours. The references to little monsters/little devils also annoy me. In comparison to other products that I have looked at/tried, I think the packaging is trying a little too hard to be cool and edgy.

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS thought it looked and smelled nice when I showed him the tube and was keen to try it. When we used it as a body wash, he said that it smelt nice. I don't think it particularly made bath time more fun - although DS may have thought so as he managed to squeeze out about a quarter of the tube into the bucket he plays with in the shower and had great fun with that.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Overall, I think the product performs well. As a body wash, it does a good job (although DS does not tend to be very mucky anyway). I think the amount of lather produced when used as a body wash is about right. We have used it as a shampoo once and I found it harder to use than our normal brand. Due to the thicker consistency the normal amount I use (dollop the size of a 5p piece) wasn't enough, as it did not spread well on DSs' hair. I therefore had to use more than I normally would. I also found it harsher on DSs' hair and I found his hair rougher afterwards - like all the natural oils had been stripped. This is not something that happens with our normal brand.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

Fragrance wise I found the scent pleasant, but not overwhelming ? which I think is appropriate for a product aimed at use by children. I would not particularly characterise it as 'zingy'. Other fruity fragrances would be nice, plus maybe lavender/chamomile as a nice, calming scent before bed.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

I think the packaging would be much improved if it came in a pump dispenser - the tube was far too easy for DS to get into and waste a quarter of the contents. Also, the use of gender stereotypical colours in the logo is unnecessary and the text speak and references to little monsters/devils put me off the product.

One major issue I found with the packaging is that the major selling point of the product (lack of SLS and other chemical nasties) is not immediately obvious on the front of the packaging. Also, when I initially looked at the back of the tube, it was not instantly apparent that the box on the back is highlighting that those ingredients are not present. At first glance, it looked to be that those are the ingredients of the product and it was only when reading the smaller text above the box it become clear the box is trying to highlight the fact those ingredients are actually not included.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

I think that we might use the product again (price dependant) as a body wash. I would not use it as a shampoo (unless we had none of our regular brand) for the reasons given in my answer to Q3.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, I would probably recommend it as a product that I had used and liked.

Thank you for the opportunity to test this product.

1. Good first impression of product. We liked especially its appearance and smell. Nothing we didn't like. Compared well with other products.

1. The DC liked it. My oldest child, when asked specifically, said she liked the bubbles especially and also the colour and the smell. She said she liked it overall and would use it again at bath-time. Bath-time was at least as fun as usual, possibly more so (based mainly on the large amount of bubbles produced by the product!).

1. Product performed well and was easy to use. Cleaned well. Hopefully used right amount but probably used more than needed (which would be easy to do with a large tube like this).

1. Happy with fragrance. DCs liked it. Others: citrus e.g. lime?; melon?

1. It's really the children who choose which products (of those in the house) they use at bath-time. The child-specific bath products which they currently use are from an organic range. The range includes a pump-dispenser foamy hair and body wash which the DC like. (Like your product, it smells and looks good and does not hurt the eyes or dry the skin.) I like it too because the foam produced is easy for them and me to control, and it seems economical and is easy for the DC to use themselves. The DCs like to control and use any hair wash or body wash products themselves. The products therefore often get dropped in the bath and with the foam pump it doesn't matter too much if the DC drop it in the bath.

With this Halos N Horns product, the only downsides would be related to these last points. It seems to me like it would be easy for me or the DCs to pour out too much product which would be wasteful and expensive; it is a big tube and so is fairly heavy for small DCs (DCs are aged 4 & 1) to hold and use; and likewise I could imagine if the product is dropped into the bathwater then it would take in bathwater and be diluted and spoilt. So, I'd suggest slightly smaller packaging and if possible some way in which it cannot pour out if dropped into bath.

(As a comparison, the DCs current favourite products, other than their child ones, are unfortunately the wee 30ml samples of a "premium" bath products company which we occasionally receive: they smell and look good, with pretty colours in a clear and shiny bottle; they are "what mummy and daddy use" and so are instantly attractive!; they are concentrated so make lots of bubbles for a small amount of product; and the wee bottles are easy to hold and fun to play with once empty. Don't know if supply as a multipack of such sample size packaging might be do-able? I know the 30ml samples are not intended for children but anything that makes them more likely to bathe and enjoy it is welcomed... They also like "bubble bars" from a different company.)

1. Yes, DCs said they would.

1. I'd certainly mention it: think the product per se is great, and at least as good as our current child-specific foam wash, but am not so keen on the packaging functionally, as explained in answer to Q5 above.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to try your product.

Q1 Like the tube, looks fresh and not fussy, not sure about the little devils, in two minds about it.

Q2 ds, 15 months, grabs anything from the side of the bath and he didn't manage to open it on his own and waste it. Dd, 5, is happy using it. She doesn't like bubbles so it's good for her. Don't think it makes bath time any more or less exciting than anything else we generally use

Q3 The product works well for both dc. It's not slimy or runny so can get a good clean on wriggly ds. Dd can suffer from eczema and it doesn't dry her skin out at all.
It is more tricky using as shampoo as doesn't lather so well, but once you work out how much to use it was good for ds baby hair and dd longer hair. And it seems to be easier to stop it going into their eyes when rinsing because there is less lather.
Also found the tube quite useful to take to ds swimming lesson and don't need seperate shower gel and shampoo.

Q4 I quite like the fragrance but it's not that orangey, although I prefer that to a very strong artificial fruit smell. Quite like a subtle raspberry smell. It might be nice to have a (not too strong) lavender version for bedtimes.

Q5 I like the tube and flip top lid, possibly useful to have pump action at home but not so much if using out at swimming etc. I like that it's equally good for both my dc even with a baby/toddler and 5 year old.

Q6 yes I would use this again

Q7 Yes I would recommend, especially for sensitive skin

Thanks for the chance to try it out :)

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?
We thought it looked smart, stood out with the orange lid. Not sure about the 'Dermapaedic' description, as a health professional it jarred with me as it's not a term we use and smacks of trying too hard to impress. (I understand it is a trademark).

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?
Only 13 months. He throws everything in the bath anyway.

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?
Performed well, certainly got the grime off him. Only had to use a small amount at a time. I thought it lathered well on his hair but not so much on the body (hard water area). Seemed kind on the eyes for rinsing.

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?
I thought it would smell more strongly of oranges but I did like it.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?
No, I was happy with it.

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?
Depends on price. We tend to buy what is on offer, so if the price was right, yes.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?
Only if asked directly about it, I don't feel strongly enough about the product.

Q1. What were your first impressions of the product? What did you like? Was there anything you didn't like? How did it compare with other products you've tried?

Nice, clean look to packaging, liked the fact it is a squeezy tube and not a bottle and stands upright (easier to get last bit out!) We use regular halos n horns so very similar, just a bit more orange!

Q2. How about your DC - was there anything they liked or disliked about the product (if they're not old enough to tell you what they thought, then your interpretation of their opinion is fine!)? Would you say it made bath time more fun at all? If so, why? If not, why not?

DS is 2.1, doesn't really care but enjoyed lobbing it in the bath with all the other bottles! DD is 6mo so really doesn't care!

Q3. Overall, how did the product perform? Did it clean your child well? Was it easy to use or not? Did you find you used about the right amount to start with or did it take a few goes to get this right?

Worked well, got them clean and didn't inflame DS's eczema. Used right amount. Thumbs up from me!

Q4. What did you think of the fragrance? Can you think of any other fragrances that you'd like Halos N Horns to use?

Nice fragrance, mild and sweet, not what I'd call 'zingy' though! Strawberry would be nice.

Q5. Is there anything about the product and/or its packaging that you think could be improved? If so, what and how?

No, I thought it was very good, though difficult to clean off bathroom floors when a child steps on the tube, but that's more my fault!

Q6. Do you think you'd use this product again? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, as it was good on my DS's sensitive skin.

Q7. If it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend Halos N Horns Zingy Orange Hair & Body Wash to your friends who have children? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes, same answer as Q6.