BIKINI BODY IN A BOTTLE

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Given that the alternatives are sweaty gym workouts or cutting out chocolate, it's no wonder more of us are hitting the bottle to achieve a beach-ready bod. And we're spoilt for choice with an influx of firming creams hitting the shelves. But do they work? Five Fabulous readers put them to the test.

The nine-minute cellulite buster

If you're one of the 85 per cent of women in the UK who suffer from cellulite, then you might just want to read on. Adonia LegTone Serum, £59, claims to reduce orange peel skin by a whopping 47 per cent - in just nine minutes!

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How it works: Using plant stem cells known for their skin-regenerating properties, this serum strengthens weak skin cells and releases cellulite-causing toxins. Massage into your thighs twice a day.

Tester's verdict: Pandora Symes, 23, an optician from Canterbury, says: "As soon as I applied the serum, my thighs tightened and after nine minutes the skin looked smoother. Six weeks later, I've seen a massive reduction in my cellulite. At £59 it is quite expensive, and the bottles aren't huge - I got through two in six weeks - but it's worth it before a holiday." 9/10

The tummy-trimming gel

Want a washboard stomach like Madge? Méthode Jeanne Piaubert Supermince+ Anti-Yoyo Ultra-Slimming Gel, £50, claims to shed up to 2cm from your waist in four weeks. In trials, 81 per cent of users had firmer skin after a month, while 75 per cent clocked a reduction in water retention-related tummy bulge.

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How it works: The gel (coloured blue to reflect light so your body looks streamlined) contains two magic ingredients: DermaFlux - to draw sugar from your fat cells and drain toxins - and Cafeisilane - to prevent fat from re-entering these areas. Just apply in an upward direction morning and night - and voila!

Tester's verdict: Sophie Wilson, 22, a PR from Stratford-upon-Avon, says: "My stomach is the most untoned area of my body - I never wear bikinis in the summer. Not even regular sit-ups can flatten it, and I was disappointed that after four weeks the gel didn't help me achieve any inch loss either. However, everything does feel tighter and smoother, and the tingly gel dries super-quickly, so I'll definitely continue using it." 6/10

The hip-halving body lotion

Sadly, the phrase 'a moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips' rings too true for many of us. Cue Champneys Skin Smooth Hip & Thigh Body Lotion, £12.50, which claims to smooth the hip and thigh area, leaving firmer-looking skin in six weeks.

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How it works: A slimming cocktail of circulation-boosting coriander and detoxifying juniper breaks down fats within your skin cells, while grapefruit essential oil firms up slackened skin when massaged into hips and thighs daily.

Tester's verdict: Katie Butt, 28, a lawyer from London, says: "I'm a size 10, but am always looking for products to tone my hips and thighs. So it's a shame this didn't seem to do anything! The cream feels fresh on the skin and gives a nice tingly, cooling sensation, but after a month there was no difference to my body at all. I'd rather use my regular body lotion." 4/10

The £12 boob booster

Step away from those chicken fillets! To pad out your bikini top, slather on Marks & Spencer Beautiful Breast Serum, £12. In four weeks it claims to lift your boobs and 71 per cent of women say it left their cleavage firmer and more toned.

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How it works: Promising to boost and lift your bust are Siberian ginseng and an oat-based sugar complex, while a veggie mix of mangosteen and green algae hydrates your cleavage to increase volume. Simply rub into your bust area daily in downward motions.

Tester's verdict: Lynsey Fox, 27, a bar worker from Glasgow, says: "I'm slim but my bust isn't as firm as I'd like it to be. I'm a 32E so I really wanted to tone up this area. I loved the thick, non-sticky texture and after massaging it in for a couple of minutes, my skin felt really hydrated. Even though the cream says it can increase your bust size, I was glad that didn't happen to me. After four weeks my boobs feel and look a lot firmer." 8/10

The bum shrinker in a bottle

Hot on the heels of the Tummy Tuck and Boob Job comes the Rodial Bum Lift, £100. Perfect for the 70 per cent of women* (Cheryl Cole included) unhappy with their derrière, the gel claims to reduce buttock size by up to 3.8cm and improve skin firmness by 60 per cent. It may be pricey, but it'll last you six months.

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How it works: Metabolism-boosting caffeine and natural plant hormone soy isoflavone are said to shrink your thigh and bum width, while alpine mint and other wonder ingredients stimulate collagen production to reduce stretch marks by up to 60 per cent. Gently massage into bottom cheeks twice a day.



Tester's verdict: Elizabeth Ryan, 32, a mum and part-time student from Kent, says: "After six weeks, my bum looks firmer and more toned, and I've lost an inch from the widest part of it. Bring on the bikini!" 8/10

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Photography: Lancton, Alamy Images styling: Lucie Clifford Hair & make-up: Betty Lou using Estée Lauder Model: Marilyn at Nevs Model wears bikini by Aguaclara Stockists: Adonia (adonialegtone.com), Champneys (0800 636262), Jeanne Piaubert (020 7893 8333), Marks & Spencer (0845 302 1234), Rodial (rodial.co.uk)

*according to a recent survey by Rodial

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