One of the favourite parts of my day is when I stand in front of the bathroom mirror, massage a little oil or balm into my face and wipe away the makeup that previously helped me look ten times more awake than I actually was. There's something incredibly cathartic and ritualistic about cleansing away the day's dirt and grime, leaving a raw and fresh complexion beneath. Cleansers haven't always been the guilty pleasure they are now, previously taking the form or a milk or wipe that wouldn't really do more than removing the product visible on the surface; with the growth of new textures, effective formulas and the societal pressure to 'do it properly', it's no surprise we're all a little bit obsessed with our cleansing routines. I'm always up for trying a new cleanser or investing in a new way of removing the day's grime, but right now there seem to be a flurry of launches proving we're all looking for the best way to remove our makeup. I've been putting these three to the test and definitely think they're worth a try if you've come to the end of your usual pot and want to give something new a go... So here are my thoughts on each.
1. Hylamide High-Efficiency Face Cleaner (£19.00)
Hailing from the same people as those behind the Niod Low-Viscosity Cleaning Ester I loved so much here, this crystal-clear micro-emulsion has an incredibly similar texture and works in practically the same way. The unique and revolutionary formula brings together oils, esters and water-compatible cleaners into one advanced formula that 'works like an oil cleaner but acts like a water-based one.' In a single step, Mediterranean Crambe and East Asian Kanuga oils work with plant-derived esters to delete every trace of impurities and makeup, leaving skin squeaky clean. Although the formula looks like water and takes a little getting used to, when massaged into skin it effectively and efficiently lifts away makeup without stinging or leaving behind a tightening sensation. This really does feel like a deep cleanse without the effort, plus with many of the same ingredients as the Niod version it's a cheaper way to try the trend.
2. Ciate Makeup Melter Remover Balm (£16.00)
I can never make up my mind about cleansers that are developed by makeup brands. On the one hand who better to know how to remove makeup than the ones that create it, but on the other can you really be a skincare expert if your expertise has always been in lipstick? Although I can't answer that question completely, I can let you know that Ciate's new Makeup Melter Remover Balm is really rather good. Infused with nourishing Murumuru Seed Butter, its unique balm-to-oil formula eliminates tough lipstick and even the most layered of mascaras with relative ease; it even helps to nourish lashes and moisturise the skin simultaneously, so you get added benefit with your daily cleanse. There's no stripping away of essential oils and hydration, only cleansed skin that's ready for an overnight pamper. I really enjoy the lightweight non-greasy texture of this, which is great for those that like the idea of balms but not the often oily feeling it can leave on skin.
3. Erborian Solid Cleansing Oil 2-in-1 (£29.00)
There's no denying that the Koreans love their cleansing, so who better to turn to when we're in need of something high performance? Enriched with active ingredients that have long been used in traditional Korean beauty rituals and based on the long-standing double cleansing method, the solid formula transforms twice when used to offer a luxurious pampering sensation. The solid transforms into an oil upon contact with the warmth of the skin, transforming again into a silky lotion when mixed with water. It easily lifts away makeup and impurities, although it does leave a slight residue behind which I like to remove with an exfoliating pad or touch of micellar water. You get a huge amount in the pot for the cost (so don't let the price point put you off,) although it's not amazing at removing eye makeup and does sting a little when used around this area. A wise investment, but maybe one to use after you've face-wiped away your mascara.
Are you as obsessed with cleansing as I am? Which are your current favourite products to use before bed?
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
1. Hylamide High-Efficiency Face Cleaner (£19.00)
Hailing from the same people as those behind the Niod Low-Viscosity Cleaning Ester I loved so much here, this crystal-clear micro-emulsion has an incredibly similar texture and works in practically the same way. The unique and revolutionary formula brings together oils, esters and water-compatible cleaners into one advanced formula that 'works like an oil cleaner but acts like a water-based one.' In a single step, Mediterranean Crambe and East Asian Kanuga oils work with plant-derived esters to delete every trace of impurities and makeup, leaving skin squeaky clean. Although the formula looks like water and takes a little getting used to, when massaged into skin it effectively and efficiently lifts away makeup without stinging or leaving behind a tightening sensation. This really does feel like a deep cleanse without the effort, plus with many of the same ingredients as the Niod version it's a cheaper way to try the trend.
2. Ciate Makeup Melter Remover Balm (£16.00)
I can never make up my mind about cleansers that are developed by makeup brands. On the one hand who better to know how to remove makeup than the ones that create it, but on the other can you really be a skincare expert if your expertise has always been in lipstick? Although I can't answer that question completely, I can let you know that Ciate's new Makeup Melter Remover Balm is really rather good. Infused with nourishing Murumuru Seed Butter, its unique balm-to-oil formula eliminates tough lipstick and even the most layered of mascaras with relative ease; it even helps to nourish lashes and moisturise the skin simultaneously, so you get added benefit with your daily cleanse. There's no stripping away of essential oils and hydration, only cleansed skin that's ready for an overnight pamper. I really enjoy the lightweight non-greasy texture of this, which is great for those that like the idea of balms but not the often oily feeling it can leave on skin.
3. Erborian Solid Cleansing Oil 2-in-1 (£29.00)
There's no denying that the Koreans love their cleansing, so who better to turn to when we're in need of something high performance? Enriched with active ingredients that have long been used in traditional Korean beauty rituals and based on the long-standing double cleansing method, the solid formula transforms twice when used to offer a luxurious pampering sensation. The solid transforms into an oil upon contact with the warmth of the skin, transforming again into a silky lotion when mixed with water. It easily lifts away makeup and impurities, although it does leave a slight residue behind which I like to remove with an exfoliating pad or touch of micellar water. You get a huge amount in the pot for the cost (so don't let the price point put you off,) although it's not amazing at removing eye makeup and does sting a little when used around this area. A wise investment, but maybe one to use after you've face-wiped away your mascara.
Are you as obsessed with cleansing as I am? Which are your current favourite products to use before bed?
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
Features PR samples unless otherwise stated. To read my full disclaimer, click here.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
