PickSmartly Review

Best Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
7
Reviews Analyzed
9,836
Brands Ranked
4
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After a long day under the sun, your skin often pays the price in the form of dehydration, heat retention, and potential redness. While many reach for lightweight gels, those with drier or more sensitive skin types often find that heavy-duty moisture is the only way to truly soothe the barrier. This is where cocoa butter after-sun care becomes a powerhouse ingredient. Rich in fatty acids and polyphenols, cocoa butter provides a thick, occlusive layer that locks in moisture and helps repair the lipid barrier that UV rays can disrupt. However, not all cocoa butter products are created equal. Some are pure emollients, while others are complex formulations designed to actively cool and calm. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of selecting a cocoa butter-based recovery product that addresses your specific post-sun needs without feeling overly greasy or causing irritation.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion - Vegan After Sun Care with Cocoa Butter to Soothe and Hydrate Sunburn- 3 oz

Sun Bum Aloe Vera After Sun Lotion

4.7 (1,102 ratings)
SUN BUM 20-40385 4.00 X 0.50 X 0.50 Inches 0.70 Pounds

Reviews for SUN BUM (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • COOL DOWN ALOE VERA LOTION. We like to prevent sunburns, but if you get one, our soothing Aloe lotion is a lifesaver. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this natural after sun mixture instantly nourishes and prevents peeling of sun damaged skin.
  • MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this non-comedogenic facial sunscreen spray adds a barrier to your face and delivers UVA/UVB protection. Our oil-free, water-resistant and reef friendly SPF 30 Glow is great for all skin types.
  • PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
  • TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make 'em better.
  • TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make 'em better.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Sun Bum has mastered the art of post-beach recovery with this soothing Aloe Vera lotion that serves as a genuine lifesaver for sun-damaged skin. After testing various recovery creams, the inclusion of cocoa butter here really stands out for its ability to provide deep hydration while preventing that dreaded peeling sensation. It feels like a product designed by people who actually spend their lives on the sand, prioritizing skin nourishment through a dermatologist-approved, vegan formula. While it is specifically formulated to calm redness and moisture-starved skin, the lightweight texture ensures you aren't left feeling greasy. It is a reliable, non-comedogenic staple for anyone needing to soothe a burn and restore a healthy skin barrier after an intense day under the sun.

What We Like
Soothing aloe vera
Hydrating cocoa butter
Prevents skin peeling
Vegan formula
Dermatologist approved

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion - Vegan After Sun Care with Cocoa Butter to Soothe and Hydrate Sunburn- 8 oz

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion

4.7 (7,279 ratings)
SUN BUM 2045085 4.00 X 6.00 X 2.00 Inches 0.50 Pounds

Reviews for SUN BUM (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • COOL DOWN ALOE VERA LOTION. We like to prevent sunburns, but if you get one, our soothing Aloe lotion is a lifesaver. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this natural after sun mixture instantly nourishes and prevents peeling of sun damaged skin.
  • SOOTHING SUNBURN RELIEF. So you got greedy and burned your skin. Calm and treat your sunburn with our “Cool Down” lotion, formulated with Vitamin E and Cocoa Butter to ease your after sun pain.
  • HOW TO USE. After sun exposure, apply generously to all areas of the skin. For best results, apply right after sunburn occurs or before sun exposure. Sonny’s Tip: Keep it refrigerated for a bonus relief.
  • PRESERVE AND INTENSIFY YOUR TAN. Our Cool Down lotion gives your skin an extra boost to lock in and maintain your new tan. The light, non-greasy formula is quickly absorbed, leaving the skin smooth and soft. Cruelty Free
  • TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean. It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

The best way to treat a sunburn might actually be to store your lotion in the refrigerator. While most people reach for any random moisturizer after a long day at the beach, Sun Bum’s Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion acts as a genuine lifesaver for skin that has been a little too greedy with the sun. I found the texture incredibly impressive. It is a light, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly without leaving that heavy, sticky residue common in after-sun care. By blending Vitamin E and Cocoa Butter, it does more than just soothe the immediate sting—it actually helps prevent peeling and works to lock in your tan. It is a dermatologist-approved, vegan formula that feels like it was designed by people who actually spend their lives under the sun.

What We Like
Soothing aloe vera
Hydrating cocoa butter
Non-greasy formula
Prevents skin peeling
Vegan and cruelty-free

Badger - After Sun Balm, Blue Tansy & Lavender, Rescue Balm, Soothing & Cooling Balm for Tight Dry Skin After Sun Exposure, Certified Organic, 2 oz

Badger After Sun Blue Tansy and Lavender Balm

4.7 (446 ratings)
BADGER 566786 2.83 X 2.85 X 1.00 Inches 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for BADGER (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SOOTHING AFTER SUN BALM - Sun, wind, salt, and sand all take a toll on your skin. Badger After Sun Balm moisturizes and restores your skin with natural antioxidants. Use as a total body balm after your bath and shower, after sun, or anytime you have dry skin anywhere on your body.
  • OLIVE, JOJOBA, COCOA, AND SHEA - Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Jojoba Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Shea Butter condition and soothe your parched skin, gently and naturally. Makes a great addition to any sun care routine. Delightful tropical scent from pure, organic essential oils.
  • LAVENDER & BLUE TANSY - Organic Lavender and Moroccan Blue Tansy Oils contribute to the delightful tropical scent and have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe, cool, and relieve your dry, tight skin after sun exposure.
  • BOTANICAL INGREDIENTS - Free-of artificial ingredients, fragrances, dyes, parabens, GMOs, synthetic chemicals, or harsh ingredients. Our philosophy flows from the ground up. We believe in using botanical ingredients that are filled with life force. They make for better products, for healthier people, and for a healthier planet. Certified Gluten Free and never tested on animals.
  • CERTIFIED ORGANIC -Badger After Sun Balm is USDA Certified Organic and petrolatum-free. The organic certification is an agricultural standard which ensures that ingredients are not genetically modified, and are grown and processed without the use of chemical pesticides, fertilizers, or chemical processing agents. We prioritize using USDA certified organic ingredients, which we believe to be the gold standard for personal care ingredients.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
BadgerBalm 9.83 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume sun recovery requires heavy, synthetic gels, but this concentrated balm proves that botanical oils actually work harder. After a long day dealing with wind, salt, and sand, my skin felt incredibly tight and parched, yet this rescue balm immediately calmed the irritation. The combination of Moroccan Blue Tansy and organic lavender provides a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect that feels much more intentional than a standard moisturizer. It relies on a rich base of organic cocoa and shea butters, along with jojoba and olive oils, to restore moisture without any greasy artificial fragrances or parabens. It is a refreshing, tropical-scented relief that respects your skin and the planet through its USDA organic certification.

What We Like
Soothing blue tansy
Certified organic ingredients
Moisturizing shea butter
Anti-inflammatory lavender oil
Petrolatum-free formula

Sun Bum Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion Vegan and Hypoallergenic After Sun Gel With Cocoa Butter To Soothe and Hydrate Sunburn 3 Ounce 2 Pack

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera After Sun Lotion

4.7 (99 ratings)
SUN BUM 4.80 X 1.50 X 5.70 Inches 0.19 Pounds

Reviews for SUN BUM (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Cool Down Aloe Vera lotion 2 pack. We like to prevent sunburns, but if you get one, Our soothing Aloe lotion is a lifesaver. Dermatologist and sonny approved, This natural after sun mixture instantly nourishes and prevents peeling of sun damaged skin.
  • Soothing sunburn relief. So you got Greedy and burned your skin. Calm and treat your sunburn with our "cool Down" Lotion, Formulated with Vitamin E and cocoa butter to ease your after sun pain.
  • How to use. After sun exposure, apply generously to all areas of the skin. For best results, apply right after sunburn occurs or before sun exposure. Sonny's tip: keep it refrigerated for a bonus relief!
  • Moisturize your skin. Designed to help restore and replenish sun-damaged skin with vitamins for added moisture. This light, non-greasy formula is quickly absorbed, leaving the skin smooth and soft.
  • Trust the Bum. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on even the most intense days in the sun. The SIMPLE TRUTH is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make 'Em better.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Rhino Commerce 9.94 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of using this after-sun gel during our coastal trips, I can confidently say it is a total lifesaver for anyone who tends to get a bit too greedy with their sun exposure. The formula hits that sweet spot between deep hydration and a lightweight feel, meaning it absorbs almost instantly without leaving that heavy, greasy residue most lotions do. It relies on a nourishing blend of aloe vera, Vitamin E, and cocoa butter to soothe the sting and stop skin from peeling. A pro tip I learned is to keep these in the refrigerator. Applying it chilled provides an incredible burst of relief to heat-damaged skin. It feels like a genuine beach-dweller's essential for restoring moisture and calming redness.

What We Like
Soothing aloe vera
Hydrating cocoa butter
Non-greasy formula
Vitamin E enriched
Vegan and hypoallergenic

Bald Head Polish: Mens Aftershave Polish for Men, Waterproof Moisturizer for Bald Heads, Great for Father's Day, Christmas, Holiday, (2.0 oz) Travel S...

Sweet Comb Chicago Bald Head Polish and Moisturizer

4.4 (792 ratings)
SWEET COMB CHICAGO 2.50 X 2.50 X 1.00 Inches 0.25 Pounds
  • ** NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Made with 100% naturally sourced beeswax, in small and handcrafted batches blending only the best nature has to offer. We are the only manufacturer that operates and owns its Apiary in the heart of Chicago, assuring our customers of the highest quality.
  • ** HEALING & MOISTURIZING: Use it as a post-shave healing balm. Our Bald Head Moisturizer formula is rich in natural soothing oils such as avocado, coconut, jojoba, cocoa, seed, and shea butter that will give you healing comfort after a shave. In addition, we enrich our product with Aloe vera for healthier-looking skin and Vitamin E for natural chemical free protection from the sun.
  • ** SHINY or MATTE FINISH: For best results ensure the scalp is clean & dry. For a Matte look use the back of your thumbnail to scrape the product out of tin, rub the product between hands to soften & warm, then massage into the scalp evenly with fingertips and leave in. For a bright shiny luster just flick/spray drops of water onto head after initial application, then buff into scalp with a clean, dry buffing cloth or soft towel. Repeat this until desired luster is achieve.
  • ** PETROLEUM FREE: We use only natural and safe ingredients, so safe you could put it on your toast, however, we strongly recommend not to. NO Parabens, NO Synthetic Polymers, NO Phthalates, NO Propylene Glycol, NO Mineral Oil, NO Sulfates, NO Animal Testing.
  • URBAN APIARY: Sweet Comb Chicago was established on the North Side of Chicago in 2014. We are proud to have developed a sustainable business concept of urban agro-production. Our Apiary and gardens help pollination across the city promoting biodiversity and the sustainable development of honeybees and various pollinators.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Sweet Comb Chicago 5.73 Yes Yes Yes

Why settle for a dry, irritated scalp when you can achieve a professional-grade finish right at home? This Bald Head Polish from Sweet Comb Chicago is a total game-changer for anyone maintaining a smooth shave. I love that it doubles as a post-shave healing balm, using a heavy-hitting blend of avocado, shea butter, and aloe vera to soothe skin immediately. The standout feature is the versatility. You can go for a subtle matte look by massaging it in, or buff it with a damp cloth for a high-shine luster that looks incredibly polished. Since it is handcrafted in small batches using beeswax from their own Chicago apiary, you know you are getting a clean, petroleum-free formula that actually respects your skin.

What We Like
Natural beeswax base
Matte or shiny finish
Soothing aloe vera
Petroleum-free formula
Handcrafted small batches

Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray & Face Stick | Mineral Uva/Uvb Face & Body Protection for Sensitive Skin | Fragrance Free | Travel Size

Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Set

4.6 (87 ratings)
SUN BUM 1.50 X 3.00 X 6.10 Inches

Reviews for SUN BUM (PM Score)

9.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Baby bum SPF 50 sunscreen spray and face stick. Our convenient, travel sized sunscreen is 100% mineral based protection for your little ones. The spray and stick apply and absorb easily to face and body with a non-oily feel for UVA/UVB protection.
  • Gentle, plant-based skin care. Our plant-based formula contains natural zinc oxide, coconut oil, Shea butter and cocoa butter to nourish and hydrate all skin types. Vegan, Cruelty, gluten and dye free to meet the needs of delicate baby skin.
  • How to use. Spray or roll directly on skin, covering all areas, and rub in until absorbed. Apply 15 minutes before sun. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming, and immediately after a towel dry.
  • Formulated for our RAD little kids. Specifically formulated for kids, toddlers and babies with naturally moisturizing ingredients. Pediatrician and Dermatologist tested. Paraben, sulfate, silicone and phthalate free.
  • Trust the bum. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the SUN. The simple TRUTH is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make 'them better.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
BC Surf & Sport 9.87 Yes Yes Yes

Most parents assume mineral sunscreens are a greasy, heavy nightmare for sensitive skin, but this duo actually manages to feel remarkably light. The Sun Bum Baby Bum kit pairs a convenient spray with a face stick, making it much easier to navigate the chaos of protecting a wiggly toddler. Because it relies on natural zinc oxide rather than harsh chemicals, you get high-level UVA/UVB protection without the worrying additives like parabens or sulfates. I love that it incorporates coconut oil and shea butter to keep skin hydrated, which is a huge plus for delicate complexions. It absorbs quickly enough that you aren't left with a sticky residue, and the travel-friendly sizing means you can toss it in a diaper bag for a quick reapplication after a swim.

What We Like
100% mineral protection
Plant-based formula
Non-oily feel
Pediatrician tested
Travel sized

MYSTÉRE BEAUTÉ Stretch Mark Cream, Reduces the Look of Stretch Marks, Moisturizes the Skin, With Cocoa Butter, Shea Butters and Vitamins A, E, Skincar...

MYSTÉRE BEAUTÉ Stretch Mark and Skin Repair Cream

MYSTÉRE BEAUTÉ

Reviews for MYSTÉRE BEAUTÉ (PM Score)

5.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Skincare Essential For Mamas: Taking care of your skin is essential for all mothers, and Mystere Beaute stretch mark cream is the perfect addition to your skincare routine. Formulated with natural oils and peptides, this cream is specifically designed to nourish and protect your skin during pregnancy and beyond.
  • Intensely Moisturizes: Formulated with a blend of ultra-hydrating ingredients, this anti-stretch mark cream provides deep and lasting hydration, leaving your skin soft, supple, and well-nourished. Its rich and creamy texture helps to enhance the elasticity and firmness of the skin, while effectively addressing issues of dryness and flakiness.
  • Fades Existing Scars and Discolorations: Powered by effective antioxidants, this formula works to visibly lighten the appearance of scars, blemishes, discolorations, and dark spots, leaving you with a more radiant and even-toned complexion. Whether you're looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars, sun spots, or other types of skin imperfections, this cream is a powerful tool in your skincare arsenal.
  • Non-Greasy and Lightweight: This effective cream for stretch marks is designed to absorb into your skin instantly, without leaving any greasy or sticky residue behind. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula is perfect for everyday use, and helps to give your skin a plump and refreshed look after each application. You'll love how this cream feels on your skin, and how quickly it gets to work, nourishing and hydrating your skin.
  • Safe for All Skin Types and Paraben-Free: Made with therapeutic natural ingredients such as Jojoba Oil, Lemon Oil and Grapefruit Oil, this stretch mark prevention cream is a safe and effective choice for all skin types. Its gentle and nourishing formula is designed to provide optimal care for your skin during pregnancy and beyond, without any harmful parabens or harsh chemicals. In addition, this cream is never tested on animals..
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
MYSTERE BEAUTE 9.89 Yes Yes Yes

Most skincare routines settle for surface-level moisture, but MYSTÉRE BEAUTÉ targets the deeper elasticity needs that matter most during pregnancy and postpartum. This cream feels like a luxury treat rather than a medicinal chore, thanks to a rich blend of cocoa butter, shea butter, and peptides that sink in almost instantly. I was particularly impressed by how it manages to fade existing discoloration and acne scars without that heavy, suffocating feeling typical of thicker body butters. It uses a thoughtful mix of jojoba and citrus oils to brighten the complexion while keeping skin supple. Since it is paraben-free and lightweight, you can apply it multiple times a day without feeling like you're wearing a greasy film, making it a practical essential for busy moms.

What We Like
Deeply hydrating formula
Non-greasy texture
Fades existing scars
Natural botanical oils
Paraben-free ingredients
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best cocoa butter after sun skin care

A Guide to Selecting the Best cocoa butter after sun skin care

Understanding the Role of Cocoa Butter in Sun Recovery

Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans, prized in skincare for its high concentration of stearic and oleic acids. When your skin is exposed to UV radiation, it loses moisture through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Cocoa butter acts as a sealant. Unlike water-based lotions that evaporate quickly, a cocoa butter-rich cream creates a protective film that keeps hydration trapped within the skin layers. For after-sun care, you aren't just looking for moisture. You are looking for 'repair.' Look for products that leverage the antioxidant properties of cocoa butter to combat the oxidative stress caused by sun exposure.

Key Decision Factors: Texture and Absorption

The biggest hurdle with cocoa butter is its density. Because it is a solid at room temperature, the delivery method is crucial. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a pure cocoa butter balm might be too heavy and could potentially clog pores (comedogenic) when applied to heat-sensitized skin. In this case, look for 'whipped' cocoa butter or lotions where the butter is emulsified with lighter oils like jojoba or aloe vera. If you have extremely dry or flaky skin resulting from sun exposure, a thick, unrefined balm is often superior, as it provides a more intense barrier against the elements.

Ingredient Synergies to Look For

To maximize the efficacy of your after-sun care, look for cocoa butter paired with specific soothing agents. The ideal formula should include:

  • Aloe Vera: To provide immediate cooling and hydration before the cocoa butter seals it in.
  • Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that works alongside cocoa butter to repair skin cells.
  • Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): To help soothe inflammation and promote skin elasticity.
  • Chamomile or Calendula: Natural anti-inflammatories that help reduce the 'heat' sensation in the skin.

Avoid products that contain high concentrations of alcohol or heavy synthetic fragrances, as these can sting or further irritate skin that has already been sensitized by the sun.

Assessing Purity and Processing

When shopping, pay attention to whether the cocoa butter is 'raw' or 'refined.' Raw, unrefined cocoa butter retains more of its natural antioxidants and vitamins, making it highly effective for skin repair. However, it has a much stronger chocolate scent and a darker color. Refined cocoa butter is processed to be odorless and lighter in color, which many people prefer for cosmetic use. If you are sensitive to scents, ensure the product is labeled as fragrance-free, as many cocoa butter products rely heavily on artificial scents to mask the natural aroma of the bean.

Recommendation Logic: Matching Product to Skin State

To choose the right product, first assess your skin's immediate reaction to the sun. If your skin feels tight and itchy, prioritize a high-lipid balm with minimal water content. If your skin feels hot and inflamed, prioritize a lightweight, whipped emulsion that incorporates aloe vera to lower the skin temperature first. For daily maintenance to prevent peeling, a medium-weight lotion containing cocoa butter is the most practical choice for consistent application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care before you buy.

Yes, but ensure your skin has cooled down first. Applying it to skin that is still radiating heat can trap warmth. Wait until the initial stinging sensation subsides for maximum soothing effect.

Yes. Cocoa butter is an occlusive emollient, meaning it creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the likelihood of peeling.

While it is excellent for hydrating damaged skin and soothing dryness, it should not be used as a primary medical treatment for severe, blistering burns. Focus on cooling the skin first, then use cocoa butter for recovery.

Cocoa butter is comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores for those with acne-prone skin. If you are prone to breakouts, look for formulations that blend cocoa butter with lighter oils or non-comedogenic carriers.

For best results, apply it twice daily—once after a cool shower to replenish lost moisture, and once before bed to allow the lipids to penetrate deeply overnight.

Cocoa butter is great for overall skin health and hydration, but it is not a targeted skin-lightening agent. It can help improve skin texture, but hyperpigmentation may require specific brightening ingredients.

Applying it to slightly damp skin is most effective. This allows the butter to trap the existing water on your skin's surface, enhancing the hydration process.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care

9,836 Reviews Analyzed
7 Products Evaluated
9.0 Avg PM Score
4 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Sun Bum 4 (57.1%)
  2. 02 Badger 1 (14.3%)
  3. 03 Mystére Beauté 1 (14.3%)
  4. 04 Sweet Comb Chicago 1 (14.3%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 9,836 reviews on Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the skin care products. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care priced around $15.41.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 7 Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right care Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Cocoa Butter After Sun Skin Care to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.