Brand review: Versatility with Beauty Cleanse Skincare

Beauty Cleanse Skincare

A couple of months ago, I had the opportunity to try Beauty Cleanse Skincare*, an up-and-coming skincare brand from the UK. Saman Ali, the founder, introduced me to her company. Following a couple of email exchanges, I got very intrigued by her ethos involving products with fewer ingredients that remain multifunctional. Her line comprises five products that work synergistically and are highly versatile.

The brand

Despite being relatively new in the game (launch was in 2019), Beauty Cleanse Skincare has already been making a solid impression: it was awarded “Best British Brand” by British Beauty Council 2019 and Pure Beauty London Awards 2020. When browsing their website, you’ll see that they are also shortlisted for every award centered around skincare. Saman does her best in keeping sustainability at every stage, ‘from the harvesting and processing of raw materials to formulation, finishing, packaging, transport, and consumer use’. Her company is 100 % made in the UK: the testing, formulating, and packaging is done in Britain. All her products are housed in 100% recyclable glass. The organic ingredients are sourced from British-owned family heritage businesses that keep their practices ethical & transparent and registered with COSMOS, Soil Association, and SEDEX. All their other ingredients are sourced from reputable UK-based suppliers with fully traceable supply chains. She works with suppliers that share her eco-conscious mission, each one of them doing also its part to reduce waste. One example: Her Label Supplier ensures that their waste is collected and sent for processing at an Energy Recovery Facility, to provide electricity for the National Grid and Heat for Sheffield’s District Energy Network, UK. 

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The ingredients

After 11 years of using organic and/or botanical-oriented skincare, I am still in awe of the hidden wonders of specific plants and ingredients, however I never expected coming across a skincare product containing … cabbage! But then I figured that if Broccoli seed oil is well set in the beauty world, then why wouldn’t cabbage get a seat at the table too 😉

The +++ : the use of upcycled ingredients. Several debates are taking place on the sustainable challenges surrounding harvesting and cultivating plant-based ingredients, so the idea of making the most of each resource contributes indeed to reducing waste. Another thoughtful element about the brand is the choice of multi-functional formulas. The Mean Green Superfood drops, as reviewed a bit further, are equally amazing for skin, hair, and body. While I made most of its use as a face oil/serum, it is also a cuticle treat and a fantastic hair serum thanks to its clever combination of ingredients.

Another point I particularly appreciate about the brand is the full transparency. The website is brimming with info, from the formulation to the packaging process. For each ingredient, the consumer is made aware of its source, whether it’s organic, cold-pressed, and upcycled.

The waterless formulation. This is another conscious choice made by Saman. In an interview with Natural Products, she explains that on average a product is 70% water and explains how it can easily be avoided in the formulation: “Your skin is waterproof. So quite simply, it’s useless in your skincare. Water doesn’t absorb into your skin, and it doesn’t hydrate you. It’s just diluting down the good ingredients. That’s why we don’t include any water. And because our products aren’t watered down, they are incredibly potent, which means you can use less product. Aside from delivering better skincare, going waterless also means that our products are more sustainable. Water is a valuable resource; we don’t see any reason to waste it.”

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INSIDE THE ANTI-POLLUTION DEEP CLEANSING OIL AND MAKEUP REMOVER:

Let’s dive into the product Cabbage + Cranberry + Hemp antioxidant oil-to-milk cleansing oil

Constituents of plant oils such as triglycerides, phospholipids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants can act synergistically and play a role in boosting the skin barrier homeostasis, antioxidative activities, and anti-inflammatory properties. After eyars of using oils, I can also attest of their wonders. Inside this cleansing oil we have:

• Cold Pressed Grapeseed Oil,
• Cold Pressed Sunflower Seed Oil,
• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Emollient & Skin-Replenishing Ingredient), 
• Polyglyceryl-4-Oleate (Plant-derived Emulsifier), 
• Upcycled Cold Pressed Cranberry Seed Oil,
• Upcycled Cold Pressed Hemp Seed Oil,
• Cold Pressed Cabbage Seed Oil,
• Bisabolol (Anti-irritant, Derived from Candeia Tree), 
• Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant)

When it comes to oils, cold-pressed extraction is one of those “guarantees” that certain solvents are avoided. Cold-pressed means that the process is solely mechanical, without any heat or “chemicals”. Grapeseed belongs to the family of oils high in linoleic acid, thus also suitable for oily/congested skin, since it is less likely to clog the skin. It is high in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty to help combat signs of inflammation such as excessively dry skin and discoloration. Omega 6 fatty acids are necessary for proper skin barrier functioning. Phenolic compounds, resveratrol, and vitamin E in grape seed oil provide most of its antioxidant activity.¹ Sunflower seed oil has been shown to improve hydration, its components (including linoleic acid) enhance skin barrier repair. Cabbage is high in minerals, and several studies are pointing out its strong antioxidant properties and ability to combat oxidative stress, one of the reasons leading to premature aging and damaged skin._² Cranberry seed oil is high in polyphenols which have been reported to attenuate collagen degradation (thus reducing loss of elasticity and premature wrinkles) and inhibit oxidative stress in human cells.³ Hemp seed oil is a rich source of omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, but other promising studies are confirming that components of Hemp seed oil can be a superior acne treatment, overcoming the limitation of antibiotic resistance and retinoids. This is due to its anti-acne (especially for P. acnes) anti-inflammation, anti-lipogenesis, and pro-collagen synthesis activities. ⁴

My experience with the Anti-Pollution Deep Cleansing oil

When I got the product, my skin was still recovering from intense stress and maskne; while I had started to focus on repairing the skin barrier, my skin was still susceptible to flare-ups and irritations. So I continued to keep my skincare routine simple, with fewer active ingredients and barely any essential oils. My skin would easily get red after cleansing, but I did not experience any discomfort once I incorporated the Anti-pollution Deep Cleansing oil. Quite the opposite, over time, my skin became less fussy and back to a more balanced state. So this is a cleansing oil that is brilliant for sensitive skin because it won’t cause additional disruption, while simultaneously contributing to improving the skin health. One to two pumps are enough to cover face and neck; the oil is dense and coats the skin, which makes massaging a breeze. Oil cleansing has the ability to pull the imbalanced oil with the dirt and debris off the skin effortlessly. The thick texture emulsifies effortlessly and rinses off with water. Skin feels soft, dewy, and silky afterward. No tingling sensation, no red patches, just a fresh, clean, and balanced complexion. I got so hooked that I strictly used this oil exclusively until it was empty (it will last you for 2-3 months if you only use it in the evening). I noticed a significant improvement and I am quite positive that sticking to this cleansing oil sped up the healing process, because I was using it every single day.

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MEAN GREEN SUPERFOOD DROPS:

• Organic Broccoli Seed Oil
• Organic Rosehip Oil
• Olive Squalane
• Organic Jojoba Oil
• Coco-caprylate (Plant-Derived Emollient + Skin-Conditioning Ester, derived from Coconut)
• Organic Red Raspberry Seed oil
• Organic Tamanu Seed Oil
• Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil
• Organic Macadamia Nut Oil
• Organic Chia Seed oil
• Tocopherol (Natural Antioxidant Vitamin E)
• Sunflower seed oil
• Organic Spearmint
• Organic Lemongrass

This blend contains d-limonene, citral and linalool, naturally occuring from the use of spearmint and lemongrass.

The formula strongly differs from cleansing oil since they only have sunflower oil in common. It’s a different experience. Used as an oil/serum base, this is more of a vitamin boost for the skin, something to prime the skin and revive the complexion. It contains high concentrations of Omegas 3,5,6,7 and 9, plus antioxidant carotenoids to repair and protect skin and hair against environmental stress and visible damage. Broccoli seed oil is commonly dubbed as “the plant silicone” which makes it the perfect addition to a priming serum or a hair product. Why? Due to its high content of erucic fatty acid which may mimic the behavior and purpose of silicones in hair, minus the inconveniences. I have been a fan of this oil for years because it is also non-clogging and suitable for most skin types. Chia seed oil has similar properties to broccoli seed oil. Squalane is another favorite of mine because it is extremely well tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin. Rosehip is rich in polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids which correlate with antioxidant activity. Rosehip seed oil is also rich in unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic and linolenic acid, which participate in biological processes related to cell regeneration. Pomegranate seed oil stimulates a mild thickening of the epidermis,and collagen synthesis.⁵

Tamanu has outstanding wound healing properties and antimicrobial activities.⁶ It is an active ingredient used for skin regeneration and after sun protection. It is also soothing and may help to prevent premature wrinkles and stretch marks. Macadamia seed oil contains unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, and also vitamin E, which can increase moisture level due to water-binding properties.⁷ Raspberry seed oil is well-known in cosmetics, being used as a body and face moisturizer because of its high concentrations of Vitamins A and E. Non-comedogenic, the oil works by creating a lipid barrier that stops the skin from losing natural moisture, thus reduces the appearance of wrinkles and smoothes skin texture.⁸ Unlike other emollients, it does not clog pores and encourages natural water retention in the cells. Although Red raspberry seed oil is not a sunscreen, the oil contains (to a certain extend) sun protective qualities. Aside from their innate skin properties as essential oils, lemongrass and spearmint can “camouflage” the rather “distinctive” smell of Red Raspberry and Tamanu, which are not necessarily enjoyable.

My experience with the Mean Green Superfood Drops

While the cleansing oil has a thick texture to efficiently cleanse the skin, the Mean Green Superfood Drops are featherlight and fast-absorbing, without any risks of clogging the skin. 3-4 drops are enough to provide a boost of antioxidants. I’d apply the drops on the tips of my fingers, rub my hands together and pat my skin gently. My skin felt soft, smooth, and properly moisturized each time. I was particularly impressed by its use as a primer, to maintain the skin hydrated and plump. You can also mix a drop or two with the foundation to add more dewiness and evenness to the finish. Since it’s not greasy, the makeup doesn’t slip and skin looks impeccable throughout the day. As you can see in the picture below, it works superbly as a priming oil because it softens the complexion and provides a little firming effect. I am wearing a BB cream, no highlighter, yet my skin appears glowy and bouncy.

As hair oil, I used it to nourish and tame little frizz and split ends. I also liked to incorporate 2 drops in my powder hair mask for added conditioning. You can also mix it with hand cream, and apply it straight to cuticles. The combinations are numerous since it’s a formula that adapts and caters to multiple needs.

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Final thoughts

I am delighted that Beauty Cleanse supported my work in exchange for a collaboration, but as mentioned in my T&C I do not accept payments for products that did not pass my testing phase. It is only after successfully trialing both products for over 2 months that this collaboration came to fruition. After over 11 years of testing organic, green products, my number of sponsored content has remained extremely constricted.

The reason I consider Beauty Cleanse Skincare to be a solid asset to the skincare industry is that it is a brand that has been thoughtfully crafted and you can see the efforts implemented by Saman to create a sustainable range from A to Z. The website is filled to the brim with information, and the customer is allowed to make a solid opinion for him/herself because he’s being provided knowledge and transparent content. The marketing takes a backseat: while there is a clear visual identity, what stands out is Beauty Cleanse’s desire to provide genuine service and care. The Cabbage, Hemp and Cranberry Deep cleansing oil is straight up in my top 10 cleansing oils and one that I recommend to everyone. It is a stellar product that cleanses and treats the skin at the same time. I now know that I need cabbage in my skincare routine haha.

The Mean Green Superfood Drops is a fantastic introduction into the world of oils for newbies because the formula is well-rounded but also for experienced users longing to simplify their routine. Thanks to its versatile formula, it’s one of those products that will be used to the very last drop (no pun intended), without a risk of going to waste.

Did you know Beauty Cleanse Skincare? Let me know which products you’d be most tempted to try?

Take care,

Liz

Studies: ¹. Lin, T. K., Zhong, L., & Santiago, J. L. (2017). Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(1), 70. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19010070

² Morales-López J, Centeno-Álvarez M, Nieto-Camacho A, López MG, Pérez-Hernández E, Pérez-Hernández N, Fernández-Martínez E. Evaluation of antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of white cabbage essential oil. Pharm Biol. 2017 Dec;55(1):233-241. doi: 10.1080/13880209.2016.1258424. PMID: 27927070; PMCID: PMC6130702.

^3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/collagen-synthesis

⁴Jin S, Lee MY. The ameliorative effect of hemp seed hexane extracts on the Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammation and lipogenesis in sebocytes. PLoS One. 2018;13(8):e0202933. Published 2018 Aug 27. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0202933

⁵ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323738006_Pomegranate_seed_oil_A_comprehensive_review_on_its_therapeutic_effects Pomegranate seed oil: A comprehensive review on its therapeutic effects, 2016. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research 

⁶. Léguillier T, Lecsö-Bornet M, Lémus C, et al. The Wound Healing and Antibacterial Activity of Five Ethnomedical Calophyllum inophyllum Oils: An Alternative Therapeutic Strategy to Treat Infected Wounds. PLoS One. 2015;10(9):e0138602. Published 2015 Sep 25. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0138602

^7. Hanum TI, Laila L, Sumaiyah S, Syahrina E. Macadamia Nuts Oil in Nanocream and Conventional Cream as Skin Anti-Aging: A Comparative Study. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019;7(22):3917-3920. Published 2019 Nov 14. doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.533

⁸ Ispiryan A, Viškelis J, Viškelis P. Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeusL.) Seed Oil: A Review. Plants (Basel). 2021;10(5):944. Published 2021 May 9. doi:10.3390/plants10050944

°This is a paid partnership, in collaboration with Beauty Cleanse Skincare. See T&C regarding sponsored content (here) All opinions my own.