I'm an absolute nightmare when shopping, particularly as I spend far too long lingering around the beauty aisles much to my husband's sheer dismay. I cannot resist trying and testing out new products and when I discovered that Tesco had recently launched a new luxury hand wash range, I did not hesitate in picking up a bottle of each of the three fragrances with this review discussing Fig and White Tea.

I found the contemporary appearance of the product extremely enticing despite it being pushed to the top shelf and out of eye level. The unique shape of the rectangular shaped white coloured plastic bottle contains 300 ml of what Tesco claim to be a luxury hand wash and there is a removable label contained on both the front and reverse should you wish to reuse it at a later date. The label on the front creates a rather superior impression with its flowers, which are illustrated with silver swirls with the product fragrance being displayed in a pale green box.

I had no idea what to expect with the fragrance and whilst I am familiar with the aroma of fig, I have never experienced it within toiletries as is the case with white tea. Whilst the pump dispenser creates a luxurious appearance due to its shiny silver lower side, I found it a little difficult to use, as my finger tips were catching each time I pressed down on the pump. Although this didn't cause me any issues, I would anticipate that those consumers with larger fingers would experience a problem with dispensing and would subsequently need to decant the contents of the bottle.

With the exception of the dispenser issue, a sufficient amount of hand wash is released with one press although I cannot admit to it offering a luxurious appearance. I had anticipated it to offer a pastel green colour to mirror the inviting colour contained on the label, but unfortunately, it was translucent and rather disappointing. However, its consistency was acceptable, as it didn't seep through my fingers, so I was easily able to spread it over my skin when water was introduced.

In terms of the fragrance, I must admit that again I was disappointed, as initially the aroma of fig was rather artificial and too sweet. However, within a couple of seconds I was able to witness the delicate hint of white tea, which offered a slight zestiness, which slightly reduced the sweetness although I cannot admit to the overall aroma being uplifting or particularly favourable. On a positive note, the hand wash created a gentle lather and effectively lifted away any dirt and was easily rinsed away without leaving any residue.

Unlike the other two fragrances within the same range, namely Mandarin and Mimosa and Peony and Pomegrante; both of which left their delicate scent on my skin after using, the aroma of Fig and White Tea had totally disappeared. Whilst this may not be a concern for some consumers, I prefer my hand washes to leave their delicate fragrance on my skin. On a positive note, I did not suffer any adverse reaction when using such as dryness or itching. However, as I suffer with problematic skin on my hands, it was necessary for me to apply hand cream following use. Due to the hand wash containing antibacterial properties I felt assured that it was eradicating any germs of bacteria that may have been present on my skin. I used the hand wash in the kitchen, as I did not find it favourable for bathroom use and I can agree with Tesco's claim where they advise that it eliminates odours, as the strong aroma of the onions I had been peeling, had been lifted from my skin.

Unfortunately, due to my experience, I cannot see how Tesco can claim that this is a "luxury" hand wash, as I found it to be very average and for that reason I will not be making a further purchase. Out of the three fragrances that I've tried, I can highly recommend the Peony and Pomegranate.

The newly launched Tesco Luxury Hand Wash range is available on promotion until 24 February 2013 where you can purchase two bottles for £3. After this date, the hand wash will revert to its normal price of £2 per bottle, which I feel is a little excessive for what you are receiving. Due to the reasons discussed above, I feel a 2 star rating is appropriate, but unfortunately, no recommendation.