We know how good honey is on the inside, but what about on the outside?

We know how good honey is on the inside, but what about on the outside?

Lightweight results ? ?

Honey and almond intensive conditioning treatment, 1.05, Alberto Balsam, at larger supermarkets and chemists nationwide. It doesn't smell too strongly of honey and feels much thinner than most conditioners - which seemed strange, given it's meant to be an intensive treatment. It rinsed out perfectly and didn't leave any heavy residue on hair but we didn't feel our hair was as well conditioned as with other products.

Fruity little number ? ? ? ?

Nectarine blossom and honey body lotion 38, Jo Malone (www.jomalone.com). This light lotion smells divine, sinks easily into the skin and a subtle scent lingers throughout the day. Some will prefer a thicker formula for winter but we love it all the same.

Full body treatment ? ? ? ? ?

Iris, immortelle and honey body treatment mask, 30, Occo Markocija No 5 (020 74686488). A lush, creamy mask for the skin. Slap it all over before climbing into a bath and letting the warm water melt it away. The result is soft skin with none of the stickiness you can get with creams and gels. A luxurious treat.

Winning combination ? ? ? ?

Ylang-ylang, honey and oatmeal soap, 3.95 for 90g, Essential Spirit (www.essentialspirit.co.uk) Washing with this delicious stuff is a treat for the senses, the tropical ylang-ylang and soothing, natural honey fragrances transporting you to a far better place than an autumnal Scottish bathroom. It doesn't dry out the skin like so many soaps can, making it great for mature, dehydrated skin.

High five ? ? ? ?

Honey and beeswax in unperfumed (jojoba) hand cream, 4.95, Chainbridge Honey Farm at Earthy (www.earthy.co.uk). The thick lotion has a subtle honey scent that soaks quickly into skin, leaving hands gorgeously soft. Great for those who work at a computer as you don't end up with greasy paw marks on the keys.

Slice of life ? ? ?

Nefertiti honey body butter, 8, Kings and Queens (0870 850 3868). A really, really thick, luxurious cream, which is quite a lot of work to rub in. The overpowering smell of honey, which didn't fade as the day wore on, may have some reaching for the bread and a toaster. We doubt Nefertiti had that problem.

• This article was first published in the Scotland on Sunday on October 10, 2010