This is an idea I could have done with for quite a lot of my life. Often I've found myself in bathrooms where it seems someone has forgotten to replace the light bulb; Or in the back of a car or cab running late for a party; Or even turning up to events where the only place to get changed was in a darkened room no bigger than a closet. In all of this drama I've somehow taught myself to touch-up makeup in the dark, using my friends as guides if possible and hoping for the best if not. Well, someone obviously felt for people like myself and decided to fill the gap. I am now currently sitting here with a range of W7 Cosmetics, Lip and Eye Lights Up. A range of lip glosses and mascara tubes which light up when you twist off the lid.

My first impressions were very positive. The lip gloss colour range is gorgeous even without the gadget angle. From clear to shimmery pink, gold and bronze, they would look great over lipstick, on their own, or under bright lights. Even Alex, who normally runs a mile from makeup, came over and pinched one from me while I was testing them out. It's now in her desk drawer, where I assume it's staying. The Lip and Eye tubes are rather classy in appearance. Rectangular in shape, with solid black tips, they wouldn't look out of place in anyone's handbag. I did wonder if they were going to be weightier than your average cosmetic tube, however in the hand the difference is barely noticeable. If it hadn't been a point of concern, then I likely wouldn't even have noticed.

The lights themselves are UV lights placed in the lid, which are activated by the lid being unscrewed. To help you with your application, each tube also comes with a mirror running down one side. I tested all four products (minus the one Alex stole) in a near dark room and was very impressed with how bright the light was. This was especially helpful with the lip glosses where you can shine the lights directly towards your face during use. I didn't find it so easy with the mascara. I usually apply my mascara from the sides, so that I can use the brush to lift up my lashes. With the Eye Lights this technique meant that the light wasn't dispersed so well during application. It is always possible however, to shine the lights directly toward your eyes after using the wand in order to check your work. After turning back on the lights it occurred to me that the Lip and Eye Lights could be helpful at another point in your night - that of finding the keyhole in the door after a long night out.

I'd decided I well and truly liked the Lip and Eye Lights, only to be even more impressed when I finally looked up the price. The rather glamorous duo pack I was sent, one black Eye Light mascara and a Lip Light gloss, is £9.99. As far as makeup goes this range is not only lovely, but also more useful than most.

Available from Peacocks, Ethel Austin, TG Hughes or contact: 01753 639137