Cleansing products have become increasingly popular as the awareness of the importance of skincare grows and grows, and that is a very good thing indeed. Cleansing is the most important step of your skincare routine, as all other products, cheap or expensive, need a clear surface in order to work their magic. There’s a plethora of cleansers out there, and whether you like foamy washes or a milk on a cotton pad, you’re spoiled with choice. I personally love cleansing balms, as the thicker texture does not dry out my already parched skin, and the massage-like application is very relaxing at night.

REN was probably on of the first natural brands that I ever tried, and they have made their way back into my bathroom after a few years of absence. The brand is known as a pioneer when it comes to understanding and treating sensitive and reactive skin, with ranges that are effective yet gentle. The REN Rosa Centifolia No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm is part of their Rosa Centifolia range, with Rose essential oil as one of it’s core ingredients. Richly nourishing, stress reducing and a rich source of tannins, Rose oil has some deeply hydrating properties for the skin. Other natural and skin beneficial ingredients are Roman Chamomile oil and Pink Violet leaf extract to calm redness and soothe the skin, Prebiotic Oligosaccharides to protect and maintains the skin’s natural defense barrier and Lecithin to retain and lock moisture into the skin.

The balm comes in a tube, and that probably is the only thing that I am not enthousiastic about, as the product has a thicker texture and you really have to squeeze hard to get the product from the tube. Also, you only need a little bit, and having to squeeze the tube makes it harder to control the amount that comes out. Until recently it came in a round pot, and scooping it out would have been easier. The cleanser itself smells heavenly, not too strong but a lingering rose scent. I massage it into my skin for a few minutes (probably longer than necessary, but the combination of the product and the massage is just so relaxing!), and then add a little bit of lukewarm water, so that it transforms into a milky consistency which I wash off with a clean mulsin cloth. It dissolves all my make up, even my mascara and afterwards my skin feels clean yet soft, and looks healthy. No redness, no dryness and no itchiness whatsoever! Now, if only I could buy this by the gallon!

Available at Cosmeticary – € 41.00 / 100 ml