I was so anti cleansing balms, but the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser is a game changer

While I completely understand the hype around the holy grail Elemis Pro-Collagen cleansing balm (no shade Elemis, we love you), as someone with seriously sensitive skin, its highly perfumed scent and rich, hydrating texture didn't personally work for my skin (*cry cry*). Fixated by the balm's ability to create that at-home spa feeling, I hoped I would come across an Elemis cleansing balm dupe that would feel just as luxe but light and gentle on my skin. Little did I know the Lush Ultrabland cleanser was just about to arrive at my desk...

Reluctant to try a cleansing balm again, I was pleasantly surprised by this cleanser after just one use. While Lush is well-known for only using fresh ingredients to make its products, this cleanser is a brilliant example of what Lush does SO well, which is natural, eco-friendly skincare.

This oil-based cleanser is derived from a much-loved cold cream recipe, invented by a Greek physician Galen almost two thousand years ago (it's been around for yonks, basically). While it has since been altered by many other cosmetic brands on the high-street by pumping it with lanolin and mineral oils to make it easier to manufacture - Lush didn't want to do that.

Instead, they took inspiration from the Galen recipe and used a unique blend of beeswax, almond oil and rose water to create a buttery formula that effortlessly glides on the skin and melts away any shine, grime and the toughest of makeup (even the most stubborn waterproof mascara) in one fail-sweep. Described by Lush to be an 'ideal cleanser for sensitive skin', this cleansing balm is delicate, soothing and promises to keep your skin looking youthful and supple - whatever your complexion type. What more could you want, right?

Not only that, but the Lush Ultrabland cleansing balm will definitely not break your bank, with a hefty 100g tub costing you only £24, which is very affordable compared to other similar formulas on the market. With over 1,000 5-star reviews on its website, customers commented on everything from it being perfect for those with Roseca or suffer with acne breakouts, as well as for those who are simply using it as a gentle makeup remover.

SHOP: Lush Ultrabland Cleanser

But what did I honestly think of the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser? Read on for my detailed review, as well as how I tested the product.

My honest thoughts

As a skincare girlie, I'm obsessed with everything from Korean skincare to drugstore dupes of my favourite high-end brands. As someone who has always suffered from dry, sensitive skin from an early age, I tend to shop with caution and focus on the brand's ingredients when purchasing skincare.

Previously, using everything from the Decleor Neroli Cleanser to the Cerave Cream-to-Foam Hydrating Cleanser, I had only ever used cleansers that would lather up in my hands and have a foamy consistency when applied to the face. So, of course, when I first started using the Lush Ultrabland cleanser, I definitely had to get used to it and remind myself that it's still cleaning my face, just without all the mess.

Once I got past that stumbling block, I started to use it every day and night, and WOW, what a difference I've noticed in my complexion. Keeping all my usual other skincare products the same, including the Cerave Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF30 and the Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Cream, I genuinely have noticed SUCH a difference in my skin, particularly how soft it feels and the radiant finish it gives my complexion.

I also think this was just the type of cleanser I was seeking in winter, as I particularly suffer from a dry T-zone during the colder months, which can make applying makeup extremely difficult (we all know what that flakey, dry makeup looks like - and it's not the one).

Now, my makeup can be applied with ease, and I particularly love how it layers well with my base makeup, which consists of the By Terry Brightening CC Serum and E.L.F Halo Glow Liquid Filter. However, I've also loved how this cleanser makes me feel confident enough to go without makeup on those days when I don't feel like wearing any but still want to feel put together.

Overall, this cleansing balm gets my vote, and I will 100% be repurchasing. P.S. I also read the back of the pot, and turns out, if you keep five of any Lush pots after using them and take them into store, you'll get a free fresh face mask.

Put it this way: I don't think I'll have an issue saving up five pots of this cleanser...

How to use the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser

Never used a cleansing balm before? Fear not; they're just like any other cleanser but tend not to foam up in your hands. To apply the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser, simply scoop out a 10p size amount (a little goes a long way) and massage it into your face and over your eyelids in a relaxing, soothing manner. When you've finished and removed all the grime or makeup from your face, remove it with warm water and a clean flannel or cotton pads. It truly is that simple!

How we tested the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser

Since receiving the cleanser back in mid-January, I have solidly used this cleansing balm for almost a month now every day - morning and night. Not changing any other parts of my skincare routine and religiously avoiding my Cerave cleanser for now, I can hand-on heart say this cleansing balm has had nothing but good effects on me.

Nourishing my skin, as well as giving my face that GLOW, I simply only have good things to say about it, and I can officially say I'm no longer anti-cleansing balms. If you need any more reassurance about purchasing it, take a look at the extensive reviews on Lush's website.

SHOP: Other Elemis Cleansing Balms Dupes

Christina Geggus is a Commercial Content Writer at Bauer Media, writing shopping, trending and home content for heat. She spends her days scouring the internet for the hottest items to add to your wardrobe this season, and admiring celebrities’ extensive beauty routines, and how she can recreate it at half the price.