Cleanser
Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
The iconic 5-in-1 cleansing balm that pioneered the balm cleanser category. This cult-favorite formula with aromatic plant oils cleanses, hydrates, tones, exfoliates, and removes even waterproof makeup, leaving skin soft, balanced, and radiant. A skincare ritual trusted for over 40 years.
Deep Cleansing
Removes all traces of makeup, dirt, and impurities including waterproof formulas without stripping the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Cleansing
Removes all traces of makeup, dirt, and impurities including waterproof formulas without stripping the skin.
12-Hour Hydration
Clinically proven to hydrate skin for up to 12 hours after use, leaving skin soft and supple.
Gentle Exfoliation
When used with the included muslin cloth, provides gentle physical exfoliation to improve skin texture.
Aromatic Oil Blend
Signature blend of clove, eucalyptus, hops, and Egyptian chamomile oils for multi-benefit cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, and other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains lanolin derivatives (PEG-30 Lanolin, PEG-75 Lanolin) and cocoa butter that may feed malassezia yeast.
Clove oil, eucalyptus oil, and other essential oils may cause sensitivity in reactive skin types. Patch test recommended.
High-grade cosmetic mineral oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) is the base. Safe and non-irritating but may not suit those avoiding petrochemicals.
Formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, DEA, MEA, synthetic fragrance, and synthetic colorants.
Lanolin-based emollients are excellent moisturizers but may cause reactions in those with wool sensitivities.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum)Base
High-grade cosmetic mineral oil forms the foundation of this cleanser, providing excellent emollient properties and makeup-dissolving power without irritating the skin.
- Function: Primary cleanser and emollient that dissolves makeup and impurities
- Benefit: Occlusive properties prevent moisture loss during cleansing
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is highly refined and non-comedogenic
Egyptian Chamomile OilProven
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Oil provides soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Rich in bisabolol, it calms irritated skin and reduces redness.
- Source: Contains approximately 50% bisabolol, a powerful anti-inflammatory
- Benefit: Soothes and softens skin while providing antimicrobial properties
- Research: Studies show improved wound healing and reduced inflammation
Cocoa ButterEmollient
Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter is a rich emollient that conditions and nourishes skin. Contains fatty acids (oleic 35%, stearic 34%, palmitic 25%) plus antioxidant vitamin E.
- Function: Deep conditioning and moisturizing
- Benefit: Melts at body temperature for easy application
- Note: Rich texture helps dissolve stubborn makeup
Clove Oil ~0.5-1%Active
Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf Oil has antiseptic properties that help target blemishes and encourage clearer skin. Part of Eve Lom's signature aromatic blend.
- Benefit: Natural antiseptic properties for clearer skin
- Fragrance: Contributes to the distinctive herbal scent
Eucalyptus OilActive
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil provides detoxifying benefits and helps drain toxins from the skin. Has a refreshing, spa-like aroma.
- Function: Helps decongest pores and detoxify skin
- Aromatherapy: Provides invigorating, refreshing scent
Hops OilToning
Humulus Lupulus Oil is known for its skin-toning properties, helping to improve skin's overall texture and appearance.
- Benefit: Helps tone and tighten the skin
- Traditional Use: Used historically for skin conditioning
15 ingredients
Paraffinum Liquidum, PEG-30 Lanolin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Aluminum Stearate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, PEG-75 Lanolin, Phenoxyethanol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Cone Oil, BHT, Eugenol, Limonene
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your cleansing routine. Can be used alone or followed by a second cleanser for double-cleansing. Use morning and evening for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop & Warm
Take a small amount of cleanser and warm it between your fingertips until it begins to melt and soften.
Massage Into Skin
Apply to dry skin using circular motions, working the balm over your entire face and neck to dissolve makeup and impurities.
Hot Cloth Steam
Soak the muslin cloth in hot water, wring out excess, and press onto face for 5 seconds to open pores. Repeat 3 times.
Buff & Remove
Use the warm cloth in small circular motions to gently exfoliate and remove all traces of cleanser and makeup.
Cold Compress
Rinse cloth in cold water and hold over face for 5 seconds to close pores and tone the skin. Pat dry gently.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a luxurious, spa-like cleansing ritual
- You wear heavy or waterproof makeup
- Your skin feels dry or dehydrated after cleansing
- You appreciate aromatherapy benefits in skincare
- You want a multi-tasking 5-in-1 product
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have normal to dry skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're sensitive to essential oils or fragrance
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have a wool/lanolin allergy
- You want a quick, no-fuss cleanse without a cloth
- You're on a strict budget
- You prefer vegan formulas (contains lanolin)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich, nourishing formula provides deep hydration. Cocoa butter and mineral oil leave skin soft without any tight feeling.
Perfectly balanced cleansing experience. Leaves skin clean, hydrated, and glowing without overloading.
Works well for most combination skin. May feel slightly rich for very oily T-zones. Follow with a balancing toner.
Effective at dissolving sebum but may feel too rich. Use sparingly and follow with a second cleanser.
Contains essential oils which may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test first. Many sensitive skin users love it.
Some users report clearer skin due to thorough cleansing; others experience breakouts from cocoa butter. Patch test recommended.
Results timeline
1+ MONTHClean, Soft Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, soft, and hydrated. All makeup including waterproof formulas is completely removed.
95% noticedImproved Texture
Regular use with the muslin cloth begins to refine skin texture. Pores appear cleaner and skin feels smoother.
78% noticedBalanced Complexion
Skin looks more balanced and radiant. Congestion reduces as deep cleansing continues to work. Enhanced glow becomes visible.
72% noticedTransformed Skin
Consistent users report significantly clearer, softer, and more radiant skin. Many become devoted long-term users.
68% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Removes all makeup including waterproof formulas effortlessly
- Leaves skin incredibly soft and hydrated, never stripped
- Luxurious spa-like experience and ritual
- Includes high-quality muslin cloth
- Little product needed - jar lasts 3+ months
- Pioneering formula unchanged for 40 years
- Multi-tasking 5-in-1 formula
- Cult favorite with devoted following
Criticized
- Strong herbal scent is polarizing (love it or hate it)
- High price point compared to alternatives
- Time-consuming application ritual
- Requires muslin cloth for proper removal
- Can melt in warm temperatures
- Some users report breakouts
- Contains mineral oil (controversial for some)
- Not vegan (contains lanolin)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free alternative with similar balm-to-oil texture. More affordable and widely available. Lacks the aromatic oils but rinses cleaner for oily skin.
Clean beauty option with papaya enzymes and sunflower oil. Pleasant scent, emulsifies well with water. Better for sensitive skin but different texture.
K-beauty cult favorite at a fraction of the price. Sherbet texture transforms to oil. Lighter formula, great for oily skin. Lacks aromatherapy benefits.
Budget-friendly balm with chamomile. Lighter texture, gentle formula. Less luxurious experience but effective makeup removal at an accessible price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. May soften or melt in warm temperatures above 25°C/77°F.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Includes 100% cotton muslin cleansing cloth.
50ml size available for travel (under 100ml limit). Solid balm texture makes it spill-proof.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Eve Lom Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients commonly restricted during pregnancy. The formula is free from parabens and phthalates. However, as with any product during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, Eve Lom Cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including PEG-30 Lanolin, PEG-75 Lanolin, Cetearyl Alcohol, and Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like Clinique Take The Day Off (also not FA-safe) or look for cleansing oils formulated specifically for fungal acne prone skin.
Yes, Eve Lom Cleanser can be used alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a rinse-off cleanser, it won't interfere with these active ingredients. In fact, thorough cleansing helps these actives penetrate better. Use Eve Lom to cleanse, then apply your actives after drying. The cleanser's gentle formula won't compromise your skin barrier before applying potent treatments.
Eve Lom Cleanser works best for normal to dry skin types who appreciate a rich, nourishing cleanse. It's excellent for those who wear heavy makeup and want thorough removal without stripping. It can work for combination skin but may feel too rich for very oily skin types. Those with sensitive skin should patch test first due to the essential oils in the formula.
You'll notice immediate results after your first use - skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use with the muslin cloth, you should see improved skin texture and reduced congestion. After 4+ weeks, many users report a more radiant, balanced complexion. Full benefits are typically seen with 6-8 weeks of regular use.
Eve Lom Cleanser should be used as the first step in your routine, applied to dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. You can use it alone if you prefer one-step cleansing, or follow with a water-based second cleanser for double-cleansing. Use morning and evening, though once daily is sufficient for non-makeup days.
Eve Lom Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2-3 out of 5 due to ingredients like cocoa butter and lanolin derivatives. While the mineral oil base is non-comedogenic, some users with acne-prone skin report breakouts. The key is thorough removal with the muslin cloth - any residue left on skin is more likely to cause issues. Most users don't experience clogged pores when using as directed.
Eve Lom Cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 100ml jar typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use since only a small amount is needed per cleanse. Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight. If the product changes in smell, texture, or color before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: Eve Lom Cleanser is a legendary, luxurious cleansing balm that delivers on its promises of thorough cleansing and soft, hydrated skin. The spa-like ritual and aromatherapy benefits make it a joy to use, and the included muslin cloth adds value. While the high price point and polarizing herbal scent won't suit everyone, those who love it become devoted fans. Best suited for normal to dry skin types who appreciate a pampering skincare ritual and don't mind the time investment. Not ideal for fungal acne sufferers, those sensitive to essential oils, or anyone seeking a quick, no-fuss cleanse.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-30 Lanolin
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Aluminum Stearate
Cosmetic Colorant, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|