Q. My sister has very dry skin and for her birthday I wanted to give her a treat. She prefers natural products.

A. One of the nicest ranges of handmade plant-based products we know is Somerset-based Orchard View Naturals (ovnaturals.co.uk). Aromatherapist Lucy Stevens makes her own products using 84-99% Soil Association certified organic ingredients, which are also vegan and cruelty-free. 

We suggest one of Lucy’s Botanical Facial Oils, such as Serene, from £15 /10 ml, which is suitable for most skin types. Based on a blend of nourishing oils, including argan, jojoba and sacha inchi, it is designed as the name suggests to be calming and balancing with essential oils of rose geranium, bergamot and lavender. Your sister can use this light formula every day twice a day on face and neck.

If budget allows, we would add a Botanical Body Oil. The two versions are Supple/£30 for 100 ml and Restored/£36 for 100 ml. (Or splash out on both for £59.) Restored should help to replenish moisture for dry skin, and the aroma - with frankincense and sandalwood - was inspired by the Japanese ritual of ‘forest bathing’. It will help to balance energy as well as lifting spirits, according to Lucy.

You don’t say if your sister’s skin condition is linked to illness, or possibly cancer treatment.  One website you may find helpful if so is Jennifer Young’s beautydespitecancer.co.uk, specifically designed to give information and support as well as products.

Prize Draws