Latest news with #cleansingbalm
The Sun
20 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Elemis' cleansing balm has thousands of five-star reviews but it's £52 – so how does Aldi's £5.99 dupe compare?
FOR years, I've watched from afar as beauty gurus and skincare connoisseurs have raved about one product in particular: the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. It's a product that has achieved a high status, not just for its wonderful effects, but for its price tag. 3 At a hefty £52 for a 100g tub, it's not a casual purchase - it's a commitment. It's a signal that you've 'made it' in the world of luxury skincare. So naturally, when Aldi announced its new Lacura Cleansing Balm, a dupe promising to deliver that same high-end experience for just £5.99, I knew I had to put my skincare devotion to the ultimate test. Could a supermarket version really compete with the gold standard? The Elemis balm is a ritual in a jar. The first time I twisted open the lid, I was met with a rich, buttery yellow balm that felt dense and substantial. Taking just a small, pea-sized amount, as a little truly goes a long, long way, it melts between my fingertips almost instantly. The warmth from my skin releases the signature scent - a complex, aromatic blend of nine essential oils including Lavender, Chamomile, and Eucalyptus making it a full-on sensory experience. There's no doubt that it's perfect for removing long-wear foundation and stubborn waterproof mascara. It then turns into a silky, cleansing milk when I add a splash of water, rinsing away clean without any oily residue. Olga's Age-Defying Skincare Secret Revealed My skin is left feeling soft, plump, and deeply nourished. But let's be real, a £52 habit isn't sustainable for everyone. Enter the Aldi Lacura Cleansing Balm, promising a huge 87% saving. Upon opening it, the similarities are immediately clear. The balm itself has that same thick, luxurious texture. It's formulated with nourishing ingredients including Algae Extract, Sweet Almond, Elderberry, and Borage Oils, a respectable lineup that sounds like it could deliver results. Now for the hands-on comparison. When I scooped out the Aldi balm, the first thing I noticed was that I had to be a lot more generous with it. While Elemis's formula is so concentrated that a tiny amount works wonders, I found myself needing to really slather on the Lacura balm to feel like I was getting the full cleanse. The scent is lovely, but in a different way. Classic 'spa' smell Instead of the deep, complex aromatherapy of Elemis, this one has a lighter, fresher, more classic 'spa' smell. As I massaged it into my skin, the balm-to-oil transformation was just as effective. It did an impressive job of breaking down my makeup and tackled the foundation - but you need to be generous with the amount you use When I rinsed it off, my skin felt clean, soft, and hydrated - all the things you want from a cleansing balm. It didn't feel like So, what's the final verdict? 3 The Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is, without a doubt, a masterpiece. Its potent formula means you use less product per cleanse, and the exquisite scent is an experience in itself. But at £52, it remains a luxury. The Aldi Lacura Cleansing Balm, on the other hand, is a brilliant contender. While you do need to use a bit more product per cleanse, the fact that you're saving a £46 per tub makes it an incredible value. For the vast majority of us, the Aldi version is a more than worthy dupe Yasmin Harisha For the vast majority of us, the Aldi version is a more than worthy dupe. It performs the most important job - melting away makeup and impurities - and for a price that means you won't wince every time you reach for the pot. It's a definite winner for anyone looking to get that spa-like glow without the luxury price tag.
The Sun
28-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Elemis' £49 spa cleansing balm has thousands of 5-star reviews – I compared it to Boots £7.50 dupe everyone raves about
AS a dedicated skincare enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for that perfect balance where effectiveness meets affordability. For what feels like an age, the beauty world has been abuzz with endless praise for the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, a product often dubbed a 'spa-worthy' luxury cleanser. 4 And, I won't deny it - it truly is a delight to use. The experience of the Elemis balm is truly an undeniable one. It begins as a rich, solid balm, melting seamlessly into a sumptuous oil as it warms on the skin, before finally evolving into a delicate, hydrating milk upon contact with water. And there's no denying that it dissolves every trace of makeup, daily grime and impurities. It certainly leaves my skin feeling soft, nourished, and pampered. The formula itself is a boasts exceptional ingredients such as Elderberry and Padina Pavonica, complemented by a meticulously crafted essential oil blend that elevates the cleansing process into a truly indulgent evening ritual. However, with a price tag of £49.00, from Boots for a modest 100g jar, it's undeniably a splurge - one that, for many, myself included, simply isn't sustainable for day-to-day use. This led me to a recent discovery that has completely shifted my perspective and won my heart: the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm. Beauty fans have taken to internet to praise it for being a "dupe" to the Elemis product, and a "great alternative." At an astonishing £7.50 for a generous 100g pot, the HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm offers everything I desire in a cleansing balm, without the hefty price tag. And like the Elemis cleansing balm, it's nothing short of a revelation. Even the design of the pot is something else. You can twist the lid for it to come out bit by bit, or use the provide spoon to scoop it out onto your hands. From the moment I scoop out a small amount, I'm greeted with a smooth, gel-like balm that feels wonderfully indulgent. As I dot it onto my dry face and gently massage it in, the texture transforms beautifully. I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse Yasmin Harisha Under the warmth of my fingertips, it melts into a silky, lightweight oil that glides effortlessly across the skin. This transformation is key - the oil works its magic, dissolving even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and lifting away the day's build-up of dirt and pollutants. Like the Elemis product it turns into a milky texture after water is applied to it. Once I felt I had immulsified it enough on my face, I grabbed a soaked flannel and wipe it off. After rinsing, my skin feels immaculately clean, soft, and comfortably refreshed, with no tightness, greasiness, or unpleasant residue. It delivers a thorough and satisfying cleanse every time - exactly what I look for in a cleansing balm. While the Elemis balm does offer a more aromatic experience and a slightly more intricate texture transition, I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse. Especially when the price difference is so stark. The HABI balm proves, without question, that you don't need to spend a small fortune to achieve beautifully clean, happy skin. It's straightforward, exceptionally effective, and wonderfully affordable, making it a true unsung hero of skincare - perfect for daily use. For me, the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm is the undisputed winner. It excels in its primary purpose - cleansing - and does so at a price point that's accessible to all. Why spend nearly seven times more for a few extra essential oils when HABI delivers impeccable results for just £7.50? It's now my absolute go-to cleansing balm, and I genuinely cannot recommend it highly enough. If you're searching for a budget-friendly skincare gem that doesn't compromise on performance, HABI is the answer. Biggest skincare trends for 2025 Face The Future's Head of Clinic, Kimberley Medd, shared the five skincare trends predicted to take off in 2025. 1. Exosomes Exosomes are the buzzword for 2025, taking advanced skin regeneration to new heights. These micro-messengers signal skin cells to repair damage, boost collagen, and accelerate recovery, and they're a gamechanger for targeting ageing. 2. Streamlined Skincare The age of 12-step routines is fading as consumers shift to more intentional, multi-functional products. Streamlining skincare not only saves time but also reduces the risk of overloading your skin. In 2025, we'll see a rise in hybrid products that combine active ingredients for simplified, effective results. 3. Vegan Collagen Plant-based collagen will dominate the skincare world this year, providing a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional animal-derived collagen. Expect vegan collagen in everything from moisturisers to serums. 4. The Rise Of AI AI is revolutionising the beauty landscape, making it possible for consumers to get truly personalised skincare solutions. In 2025, we predict a dramatic shift towards AI-powered tools that help people understand their skin on a deeper level. 5. Hair Loss Solutions - Hair loss is an issue that affects more men than we often realise, and it's no longer just something we're talking about behind closed doors. This year, expect to see a continued rise in demand for treatments that not only tackle hair loss but also nurture overall scalp health.
The Independent
08-07-2025
- Health
- The Independent
My favourite Elemis cleansing balm is reduced to its lowest-ever price for Amazon Prime Day
The Elemis pro-collagen cleansing balm (was £49, now £34.91, is a masterclass in luxury make-up removal. It melts away waterproof mascara and stubborn brow gels in a moment. The only caveat? The premium price point. When I spotted a 30 per cent discount in the Amazon Prime Day beauty sale, it was too good to pass up. The indulgent formula combines moisturising sweet almond, oat and coconut oils with nine essential oils. Fans of the soothing balm will know that the formula comes in four additional flavours (cherry, fig, rose and unscented). After testing them all, however, the original scent is unrivalled; the chamomile, lavender and eucalyptus make it feel like a spa treatment at home. Today, you can take home the signature butter-yellow formula with a reduction of £14, exclusive to Amazon Prime members. For context, that puts Elemis' pricing far below competitors such as Eve Lom (£51.10, For those unacquainted with the iconic formula, it has a texture like sorbet and transforms into a silky oil under the heat of your fingers. Unlike a gel cleanser, the pro-collagen balm allows you to give your lashes a massage without the fear of stinging or irritation. If you're a mascara wearer, that means no dragging a micellar -soaked cotton pad over your face and no post-wash panda eyes – you can simply sweep away the fibres with a warm flannel. While essential oils should be avoided if you're pregnant, this formula is largely calming thanks to its key ingredient: padina pavonica. Though its name sounds like a spell out of Harry Potter, this saltwater algae is known for its hydrating, skin-softening properties. It offers excellent protection against UV and pollution, and it can even have anti-ageing efficacy, as it helps to protect your natural collagen stores. When testing the best cleansers, Ella Duggan found that the balm can 'aid skin's elasticity and create a visibly smoother complexion.' After use, Ella loved that her 'skin felt smooth and was left with a velvety texture.'Whether you know someone deserving of a pampering or fancy a little self-care, this almost 30 per cent price drop certainly warrants a treat.
The Sun
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Elemis Cleansing Balm review: Molly-Mae's go-to cleanser slashed by 25% in Prime Day deal
ELEMIS' Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm has earned its spot in the skincare hall of fame, with a cult following that spans over a decade. The cleanser has gained a long list of celebrity supporters over the years; Victoria Beckham, Cara Delevigne and Molly-Mae Hague are all said to be fans. Almost every skincare lover will be familiar with Elemis' signature cleanser, and as a beauty writer, I'm ashamed to admit that I hadn't tried it before conducting this Elemis Cleansing Balm review. Keen to test out anything that will work on my dry skin (and give me the complexion of Molly-Mae), I've been using the balm daily for around three months. In this review, I'll share my experience with the celeb-approved buy (which is currently reduced to just £36.7 in the Amazon Prime Day sale) and give my honest verdict on whether it's worth it Released in 2013, the Elemis cleansing balm is known for its three-in-one formula, which starts as a balm and transforms into an oil when warmed up in the hands. Its rich texture emulsifies into a milk when mixed with water, removing make-up and impurities while hydrating the skin. 6 Whether it's on a Boots advert or in an influencer's skincare routine video, the cleanser seems to be quite literally everywhere, despite being around for over 10 years. It has an impressive 4.9-out-of-five star rating on the Boots website with over 2k reviews — but is it worth the price tag? Pros Easily removes make-up Leaves the skin feeling hydrated Only a small amount of product needed Gives a glowy finish Suitable for all skin types Luxurious scent Multiple scent choices Cons Quite expensive Using it as a face mask left my skin feeling greasy Rating: 5/5 How I tested As The Sun's Fashion and Beauty eCommerce Writer, it's my job to test trending products and weigh in on whether they're truly worth adding to your basket. I've tried countless cleansers over the years at various price points, and I switched out my holy grail Byoma Oil Cleanser for the Pro-Collagen Balm for this review. I've been using the beauty buy as my first cleanse daily, and as someone who struggles with dry skin (particularly during winter), I kept an eye on the longer-term impact it's had on my skin. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £49 £36.75 BUY NOW Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm: quick summary I added the Elemis Pro-Collagen Balm to my skincare routine around three months ago, and it's here to stay. As one of the only cleansers I've used that truly leaves my skin feeling brighter and softer immediately after using, I can see why it's one of the top contenders in the beauty world. The soft balm texture becomes an oil once it's warmed in the hands, and transforms into a rich milk when mixed with water. I use it as my first cleanse, following up with a second cleanser before my serums and moisturiser. It can also be applied to clean skin for 10-15 minutes as a nourishing mask. I tried the product as a mask a couple of times, but I found that using it as a cleanser left my skin hydrated enough without needing the extra step. As it's quite fragranced, those with sensitive or acne-prone skin may not respond well to leaving the balm on for extended periods, but the Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm is an alternative specifically for sensitive skin. I love that the cleanser gives an extra moisture boost, and doesn't leave me crying out for a face cream immediately after use. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm: full review First impressions Since it's been all over my social media for years I'm familiar with Elemis' packaging, but I was pleasantly surprised by the size. I love skincare that comes in a tub as you can get out every drop of the product before needing to restock. I own the 100g tub, and it's clear from the small amount I've used so far that it'll last months, as a little goes a long way. 6 Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £49 £36.75 One thing that's put me off cleansing balms in the past is a firm texture that needs to be vigorously warmed in the hands before it's any use (I'm looking at you, Clinique Take The Day Off). Thankfully, Elemis' balm has a creamy texture that comes right off into your hands, and it really does feel luxurious. I'm not typically a fan of scented skincare so I found the combination of lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus to be overpowering at first, but now it's one of my favourite features — it really does smell like a spa in a bottle. It's made with a blend of nine essential oils designed to 'invigorate the senses', and it creates a relaxing atmosphere that makes the whole experience of removing make-up more enjoyable. Performance I used the Pro-Collagen Balm every evening as my first cleanse to remove my make-up and SPF. My usual routine consists of using an oil cleanser first, following up with my Byoma Jelly Cleanser, and then serums and moisturiser. As per the recommended guidance, I applied the product to my dry face and neck, massaging it in circular motions before wiping away any residue with a wet, warm cloth. While the balm can be applied directly to the face, I preferred warming it up slightly in my hands before working it into the skin. 6 Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £49 £36.75 I was impressed by how easily my make-up melted away every time, even when I was wearing waterproof mascara. I would recommend using a cloth rather than your hands to wash away the product, as it would be easy enough to leave oil residue on the face if not thoroughly removed, which could lead to breakouts. I'm usually rushing to apply moisturiser at this point as my face can feel tight and dry after cleansing. However, the Elemis balm is one of the few cleansers that leaves my skin feeling hydrated rather than stripped of moisture, and I've noticed a glowy finish to my complexion that actually lasts. A little really does go a long way with this product. I only needed to use a small amount to cleanse my whole face, and if you want to get the best bang for your buck, it's definitely worth warming it into an oil to spread it as far as possible. I used the Elemis balm as a face mask on a couple of occasions, leaving it on my skin for the recommended 15 minutes. This could be a useful step if your skin is screaming out for some hydration, but I found that using it daily as a cleanser was nourishing enough. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £49 £36.75 BUY NOW My skin also felt slightly greasy after using the balm as a mask, even after properly washing it off. While the £49 price tag for a 100g tub isn't the cheapest, I expect it to be using the same tub for several months, so it's more cost-effective than I anticipated (plus, it's currently on sale). As the consistency is rich and hydrating, my dry skin has loved the balm so far, but I can see the product working as a first cleanse for all skin types. How much is Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm? Elemis' cleansing balm comes in four sizes, with the smallest (20g) costing £13.50 (and it's currently £10 at Look Fantastic). I tested out the full-size £100 tub which costs £49 and probably works out as the most cost-effective, although the 20g or 50g (£29), are ideal if you want to try before taking the plunge. Die-hard fans of the product can also shop an extra large 200g version for £86. Where to buy the Elemis Cleansing Balm The cleanser is stocked on the Elemis website, as well as at several big retailers including Amazon and Boots. The 100g version is also currently reduced by £10 on several sites, but it's unclear when the deal will end. £49 at Elemis - buy here £49 £39.20 at Boots - buy here £49 £39.20 at Amazon - buy here £49 £39.20 at Look Fantastic - buy here Alternatives Elemis Pro-Collagen is royalty in the beauty world, but it's not the only one to receive rave reviews. Beauty Pie, The Inkey List and Emma Hardie are alternative brands that have highly-rated cleansing balms. If you're a loyal Elemis fan, the original Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm also comes with two other scent options. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm in Green Fig, £49 £35.28- buy here Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm in Rose, £49 £37.24 - buy here The verdict Is the Elemis Pro-Collagen Balm worth the price tag? To put it simply, yes. There are several reasons why I can confidently confirm that the cleanser has earned its bestseller status; the first being that it does exactly what it says on the tin. It really does melt away make-up, so there will never be any need to scrub when you're removing stubborn mascara. My skin felt nourished after using it, too, as it doesn't strip away its natural moisture, and the smell really is divine. I also love that you can get every bit of the product out of the tub to save any wastage. Beauty fans who are unsure whether to take the plunge can try out one of the smaller sizes, so you don't need to commit to the £49 price tag right away (the cheapest option is just £13.50). I will be repurchasing my cleansing balm when I finish this tub — the Molly-Mae effect strikes once again!
Telegraph
02-07-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
The new Boots skincare range starts at £4.50. But is it any good?
There was a time when pricier skincare may have meant better skincare, and more potent ingredients. If you wanted clever science and a cream that delivered results besides basic hydration, for example, you'd be hard pressed to find anything good on the high street. That has changed in the past decade: there are excellent brands from The Ordinary to Byoma that keep their pricing affordable and formulas science-driven. It was only a matter of time before Boots created a range more focused on results than its cheap and cheerful existing own-brand offering. It's called Modern Chemistry, a nod to the fact that Boots has a long history as a chemist, and has just launched (following a range of supplements under the same umbrella, brought out in May). The line-up is almost entirely based on insights from Boots' 17 million Advantage Card users, too (more than 10 million of those customers have shopped skincare at Boots over the past 12 months). The range includes everything from cleanser to moisturiser, with all of it priced between £4.50 and £15. I've been the first journalist to trial the products over the past month, and I'm impressed by the quality of the formulas, the luxury feel of the textures and the smart (if a little boring) packaging. It gives good bang for your buck. Sea Buckthorn Oil / Vitamin E Cleansing Balm, £15, Boots While cleansers are often seen as a basic addition in a skincare range, I think the Modern Chemistry version is one of the stars. In its research, Boots found that eight of its 10 top-selling skincare items in-store and online are cleansers. Granted, three of those eight products are the store's own-brand wipes, but sales of cleansing balms are on the up, too. I've been able to try a lot of luxury cleansing balms over recent years, and Boots' £15 option rivals the ones that cost two or three (or, in some cases, four!) times more. Formulated using the antioxidant- and omega-fatty-acid-rich sea buckthorn oil and moisturising vitamin E, it's excellent for skin that is prone to feeling dry or flaky. The data also showed that the bestselling moisturisers at Boots all focused on repairing the skin barrier (these include my own favourite, Cicaplast Baume B5+ by La Roche-Posay and the brilliant Moisturising Lotion by CeraVe). So they made their own: the new Modern Chemistry Restore Moisturiser, with Korean-skincare-inspired rice extract, feels lightweight yet nourishing. It's a purse-friendly £13 a pot. The Glow Eye Cream, also £13, is a good option for mid-life skin. It contains caffeine to counteract puffiness and light-reflecting particles to disguise the look of dark circles (although, if you are concerned about dark circles, this won't do the heavy lifting that a concealer would do in terms of coverage). Glow Eye Cream, £13, Boots Now, let's look at the mask. Sheet masks now far outsell the cream and mud versions of years gone by (that will be the influence of skincare trends from Japan and South Korea again), and have seen a nine-per-cent spike in interest from Boots customers in the past year. While I must admit I'm too lazy to apply a sheet mask regularly, the Modern Chemistry £4.50 Restore Hydrogel Mask – created in collaboration with Korean chemists – is a good choice if you're looking for a speedy skin pick-me-up. The advice is to leave it on for a minimum of 30 minutes, which I tried, and my skin did indeed feel very moisturised and soft when I removed it. Restore Hydrogel Mask, £4.50, Boots I wouldn't ever say that you need to use everything from one brand – it's much better to cherry-pick the products that work for you from a selection of ranges – but if you are in the market for one or two new products at an affordable price, do check out Modern Chemistry. I for one will be stocking up on the balm cleanser and eye cream. Three more favourites
