A beauty editor’s review of Elemis’s cult classic Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
By Zoe Cripps
Cleansing balms are the “it” product of the moment. Though some of us have been using them for years, others are only just discovering their 2-in-1 cleansing and makeup dissolving powers which make nighttime cleansing quicker and easier than ever.Â
If you were to think about some of the most iconic balms on the market, I guarantee quite a few of you would namecheck Elemis on that list. The brand’s Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm launched nearly a decade ago, but it only seems to get more and more popular with every year passing.Â
So what is it about the formula that’s earned it cult status?Â
The balm is made up of rose and mimosa waxes, as well as elderberry and starflower oils. All of these ingredients work together to nourish the skin. In fact in tests, 96% of users said their skin felt softened and soothed after using this – so there is some serious magic to it.
The signature spa-like fragrance (heavenly) comes from a blend of nine essential oils like lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus.
What skin types is it suitable for?
Most skin types will benefit from using a balm cleanser like this one. Though you might not think it, those with oily skin should even consider trying a balm as the reason for their oiliness might be down to a lack of hydration, which can cause the skin to create more oils.
Dry skin types will also love this cleanser as it’s known for leaving skin feeling soft and supple. The only skin that might want to patch test this balm before using it is sensitive types, as some of the essential oils might prove to be a little much.Â
Thoughts from our beauty editor
Working in beauty I’m incredibly lucky to be able to test a huge variety of skincare products, but there are just some that remain a constant on my bathroom shelves – and Elemis’s Balm is one of them.Â
I’m a cleansing balm girl through and through. I have combination skin that doesn’t fare well when washed with soapy or foamy formulas. Elemis’s offering is a dream to use as it gets makeup off in seconds. I like to use it twice at night: a scoop first to dislodge heavy eye makeup and the bulk of my foundation, and then another scoop to really cleanse my pores.Â
I think the real reason I always come back to this cleanser is because it makes my skin look better almost immediately. It feels hydrated, not squeaky, after cleansing, and the following morning my skin always looks fresh. I know the fragrance might not be suitable for all, but when my complexion is feeling a little bit more sensitive, I swap to Elemis’s Naked Cleansing Balm – also a real hero.
Where to shop it
If you’re keen to give the best-selling cleansing balm a go for yourself, a full-size pot retails for ÂŁ46 but we’re offering a luxury travel size in this month’s Skinsational OK! Beauty Box, just ÂŁ7.50 for new subscribers but the contents are worth an impressive ÂŁ110.Â
The edit contains everything you need to give yourself an at-home facial, including an AHA peel, a smoothing face mask, a luxe serum and a collagen-boosting moisturiser. Who needs a spa, right?