Going a little bit balmy

I’ve made a bit of a change to my skincare routine recently and really noticed a difference because of it. The thing is, I’ve always been pretty lazy at night, and, the horror, have even used baby wipes for a quick cleanse before bed.

The reason was, I felt the alternative was standing, rinsing off a cleanser with endless splashes of water – let’s face it, rinse-off cleansers are a lot easier in the shower. But now I’ve discovered balm cleansers, which are easily removed with a few squeezes of a warm flannel, the baby wipes are for nappy changes only. And my skin is thanking me for it. Here are my top five.

Inlight Organic Face Cleanser

I’ve always had a soft spot for organic skincare brand Inlight, and their Organic Face Cleanser (£30) is one of the reasons why. The star ingredients are coconut, olive, green tea and rosemary, although I find it smells slightly Christmas cake-ish, which may be down to the clove oil. It shifts makeup, deep cleanses and leaves skin wonderfully soft – in fact it’s so gentle it’s fine for rosacea, acne and sensitivities.

Angela Langford

Also organic is Angela Langford’s Clean Sweep Luxury Chamomile Cleansing Balm (£21.40). This is my go-to if I’m feeling in need of a bit of extra nourishment. It smells divine and it’s perfect for leaving on for ten minutes before you flannel off as an instant booster.

Aromatherapy Associates Soothing Cleansing Balm

Aromatherapy Associates Soothing Cleansing Balm (£36) has been a favourite for me over the winter when I’ve had that upset complexion you get from going into a centrally heated house from a cold wind. It’s creamy and calming: I can see this being handy over the summer if, heaven forbid, I catch a few too many rays.

RMK Cleansing Balm

Don’t be put off going for a balm if you’ve been wearing a lot of makeup – they are just as effective at cleansing as they are at the skincare side of things. If I’ve worn more than my usual amount, I reach for RMK Cleansing Balm (£29), which melts into your skin and dissolves every particle of slap in a rose-scented flourish. Gorgeous.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Finally, Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (£39.50), which I kind of new would be amazing, and sure enough, it is. Smells posh, cleanses like a demon, plumps – I even use it as a kind of ‘wonder-balm’ for a sore nose, dry cuticles… you name it.

 

If you happen to be looking for a summer fragrance to wear why not try Carven?

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