Skin Enhancing Treatment Cleanser
Skin Enhancing Treatment Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A luxurious 3-in-1 balm-to-oil-to-milk cleanser that removes 100% of makeup and waterproof SPF in a single cleanse while hydrating, soothing, and strengthening the skin barrier. Clinically proven to increase skin hydration by 83% after just one use. Formulated with only 11 purposeful ingredients — 98% natural-origin — including plant-derived saponins, squalane, and prickly pear oil.
3-in-1 Hybrid Formula
Works as a cleanser, hydrating face mask, and facial massage treatment. Transforms from balm to oil to milk for a seamless experience.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3-in-1 Hybrid Formula
Works as a cleanser, hydrating face mask, and facial massage treatment. Transforms from balm to oil to milk for a seamless experience.
One-Step Makeup Removal
Clinically proven to remove 100% of long-wearing makeup and waterproof SPF in a single cleanse — eliminating the need for double cleansing.
Barrier-Boosting Hydration
Increases skin hydration by 83% after one use. Regular use improves skin barrier function and boosts moisturisation levels by 49%.
Plant-Powered Saponins
Uses natural saponins from Soapwort and Quillaja bark — gentle cleansing agents used since Roman times — instead of harsh synthetic surfactants.
Minimalist 11-Ingredient Formula
Every single ingredient was personally handpicked by Lisa Eldridge. No fillers, no fragrance, no preservatives — pure efficacy.
Award-Winning Formula
Winner of Harper's Bazaar Best Cleansing Balm 2023 and ELLE Future of Beauty Most Innovative Product 2023.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All 11 ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Prickly Pear Oil, and Passionfruit Seed Oil — all of which contain fatty acids that may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
The brand states all key oils are non-comedogenic. Squalane and caprylic/capric triglyceride score 0 for comedogenicity. The wash-off nature of this product further reduces pore-clogging risk.
Clinically tested and proven suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. Contains no alcohol, perfume, essential oils, or common allergy triggers.
Safe for use around the delicate eye area. Does not sting when emulsified according to user reviews. If product enters eyes, rinse with water.
Contains no synthetic preservatives. The anhydrous (low-water) oil-based formula is self-preserving, which reduces potential for irritation but requires proper storage.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCaprylic/Capric Triglyceride BaseProven
A lightweight, non-greasy emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Acts as the base of the formula, providing excellent spreadability and helping dissolve makeup and impurities.
- Function: Primary emollient and solvent — melts makeup and SPF on contact
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0 — will not clog pores despite coconut oil origin
- Tolerance: Universally well-tolerated across all skin types and conditions
Glycerin High %Proven
The gold standard of humectants. Draws moisture deep into the skin, keeping it strong, soft, and supple. Plays a critical role in skin barrier maintenance and overall hydration.
- Clinical data: Effective from as low as 3%, with increased benefits at 20-40% concentration for dry skin
- Skin-identical: Naturally present in the skin's lipid structure, maintaining lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0 — non-comedogenic and non-irritating
Squalane High %Proven
Plant-derived from Spanish olives, this stable hydrocarbon mimics the squalene naturally found in human sebum. Provides deep hydration without greasiness and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Biocompatibility: Mirrors the skin's own sebum — excellent for all skin types including acne-prone
- Antioxidant: Helps fight free radicals and environmental skin damage
- Tolerance: Research shows non-irritating even at 100% concentration
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil Mid %Proven
Rich in ceramides and antioxidants, oat kernel oil is deeply moisturising and anti-inflammatory. Helps soothe irritated skin while strengthening the protective barrier.
- Ceramide content: Contains natural ceramides that reinforce the skin's lipid barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Avenanthramides in oat oil reduce redness and calm reactive skin
- Protective: Antioxidant properties shield against environmental stressors
Meadowfoam Seed Oil Mid %Proven
A lightweight, non-greasy oil with a unique fatty acid profile — 95% long-chain fatty acids. Exceptionally stable and effective at locking in moisture without clogging pores.
- Stability: Extraordinarily oxidation-resistant due to its unique C20-C22 fatty acid composition
- Emollience: Non-comedogenic — locks in hydration without heaviness
- Certification: ECOCERT approved, COSMOS approved
Prickly Pear Seed Oil Low-Mid %Promising
A powerfully nourishing emollient from cactus seeds, high in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Suitable for all skin types including acne-prone skin.
- Antioxidant: Rich in vitamin E and betalains for free radical protection
- Antibacterial: Natural antibacterial properties make it suitable for acnegenic skin
- Barrier support: Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier-boosting properties
Passionfruit Seed Oil Low-Mid %Promising
A high-linoleic acid oil (~70% linoleic, ~15% oleic) that regenerates and repairs skin while helping to retain hydration. Suitable for all skin types as a high-LA oil.
- High linoleic acid: ~70% linoleic acid makes it beneficial for acne-prone skin
- Antioxidant: Rich in carotenoids and polyphenols for skin protection
- Regenerative: Supports skin repair and helps retain moisture
Saponins (Quillaja + Soapwort) Low %Proven
Natural cleansing agents extracted from Quillaja bark and Soapwort leaves/roots. These wildly-harvested, plant-derived surfactants have been used for cleansing since Roman times — gentle yet thorough.
- Gentle cleansing: Natural surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin barrier
- Historical use: Used as a cleansing agent for millennia across cultures
- Sensitivity: Suitable for even the most sensitive skin types
11 ingredients
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Squalane, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil (Oat Kernel Oil), Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil (Meadowfoam Seed Oil), Aqua, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed Oil (Prickly Pear Oil), Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil (Passion Fruit Seed Oil), Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract (Saponins), Saponaria Officinalis Leaf/Root Extract (Saponins)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 — this is a one-step cleanser designed to replace both your makeup remover and cleanser. No double cleansing needed. Pair with the Lisa Eldridge Skin and Makeup Enhancing Mist as Step 2 for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Squeeze a blueberry-sized amount onto dry hands and apply directly to dry skin. The balm will spread comfortably and evenly over the face.
Massage for 30 Seconds
Massage gently to melt your makeup. After about 25-30 seconds, the balm will transform into an oil. Take this time for a facial massage — Lisa highly encourages it!
Add Water to Emulsify
Wet your fingertips with warm water and continue massaging. The oil will turn into a soft, milky emulsion that lifts away all impurities.
Remove with Cloth or Water
Wipe away with a dampened Cleansing Cloth (recommended) or rinse with a splash of water for a fresh finish. Skin is left clean, hydrated, and comfortable.
Optional: Use as a Mask
Apply to clean, dry skin and leave on for 2-20 minutes as a nourishing treatment mask. Lisa leaves it on while she brushes her teeth every evening!
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a single product that cleanses, masks, and nourishes
- You wear long-wearing makeup or waterproof SPF daily
- You have sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin
- You prefer a minimalist, clean ingredient list
- You value fragrance-free, preservative-free formulas
- You want a cleanser that leaves skin hydrated, not tight
- You enjoy the ritual of a facial massage with your cleanser
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — formula contains fatty acids that may trigger it
- You have very oily skin and dislike any residual dewy finish
- You prefer a foaming or gel cleanser texture
- You strongly prefer scented skincare products
- You are on a tight budget — this is a premium-priced cleanser
- You want a self-rinsing formula that works without a cloth
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich, oil-based formula deeply hydrates without stripping. Leaves a comfortable, dewy finish that dry skin will love. Also doubles as a nourishing mask.
Perfectly balanced formula cleanses thoroughly while maintaining the skin's natural moisture levels. A luxurious daily staple.
Removes makeup effectively across all zones. The dewy finish may feel rich on oily areas — follow with a water-based cleanser on the T-zone if preferred.
Excellent at dissolving oil and makeup, but the emollient finish may feel too rich. Oily skin types may prefer to follow with a lightweight gel cleanser.
Clinically tested for sensitive skin. No fragrance, no essential oils, no preservatives, no common allergens. Reviewers with rosacea report zero irritation.
Non-comedogenic formula with antibacterial prickly pear oil. Not suitable for fungal acne, but works well for hormonal or bacterial acne-prone skin.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSImmediate Hydration Boost
Skin feels deeply cleansed yet hydrated and comfortable — not tight or stripped. Clinically measured 83% increase in hydration after just one application.
95% noticed hydrated skin immediatelyImproved Skin Texture & Glow
Skin begins to look smoother, clearer, and more radiant. Many users notice they need less serum and moisturiser after cleansing. The "glow" effect becomes noticeable.
80% noticed improved radianceStronger Skin Barrier
Regular use significantly maintains and improves skin barrier function. Moisturisation levels increase by 49% with consistent daily use. Less reactive, more resilient skin.
85% noticed barrier improvementReduced Skincare Steps Needed
Independent clinical studies found most users needed less serum and moisturiser over time. Skin feels healthier, more balanced, and less dependent on multiple products.
70% reduced their skincare routineRatings by platform
300+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Removes 100% of waterproof makeup and SPF in one step
- Leaves skin hydrated, plumped, and never tight or stripped
- Clinically proven hydration boost (+83% after one use)
- Only 11 clean, purposeful ingredients — no fillers
- Fragrance-free — suitable for rosacea and reactive skin
- Hygienic squeeze tube packaging (no jar scooping)
- Multi-use: cleanser + mask + massage treatment
- Award-winning formula (Harper's Bazaar, ELLE)
- A blueberry-sized amount covers the full face
- Self-preserving formula — no synthetic preservatives
Criticized
- Premium price at £43 / ~$52 for 100ml
- Only available in one size — no travel or jumbo option
- Requires a cloth for best removal — not fully self-rinsing
- May feel too rich or dewy for very oily skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acid-rich oils
- Unscented — some users miss a spa-like fragrance
- Limited availability — mainly online and select UK retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso a squalane-based balm-to-oil cleanser in a tube. Simpler formula without the botanical oils or saponin cleansing agents. Less luxurious texture but similarly gentle and effective for light makeup removal.
A cult-favourite fragrance-free cleansing balm. Uses safflower seed oil instead of botanical oils. Excellent at makeup removal but lacks the treatment/mask multi-use function and hydrating clinical results.
Also features oat-based ingredients for sensitive skin. A solid budget alternative for gentle cleansing, but contains a longer ingredient list with synthetic emulsifiers. Less refined texture and no clinical trial data.
A popular UK budget alternative with a rose scent. Contains a much longer ingredient list including fragrance. Good for basic makeup removal but lacks the minimalist, treatment-grade formulation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The self-preserving formula is stable at room temperature but avoid extreme heat.
Hygienic squeeze tube with screw cap — fully recyclable (both tube and cap). No jar scooping required, reducing contamination risk.
Yes — 100ml tube is exactly at the TSA/carry-on liquid limit. Compact, leak-proof design ideal for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The Skin Enhancing Treatment Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients on standard pregnancy-avoid lists. All 11 ingredients are gentle, natural-origin emollients, humectants, and plant-derived cleansing agents. That said, always consult your GP or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients with fatty acid content that can feed malassezia yeast: Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Prickly Pear Seed Oil, and Passionfruit Seed Oil. The olive-derived squalane may also contain trace impurities. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a squalane-only cleanser like The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (with sugarcane-derived squalane) as an alternative.
Yes. Because this is a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interact with any leave-on active ingredients. You can safely use it before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), or BHAs (salicylic acid). In fact, its gentle, non-stripping formula is ideal for skin using strong actives, as it won't further compromise the skin barrier. Cleanse first, then apply your actives and follow with moisturiser.
This cleanser is clinically tested and suitable for all skin types, but it excels for dry, normal, and sensitive skin. The oil-rich formula is particularly beneficial for those with dehydrated, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin. Oily skin types may find the finish too dewy and might prefer to follow with a lightweight gel cleanser. Combination skin can enjoy it with an optional second cleanse on the T-zone.
Hydration results are immediate — clinical trials measured an 83% increase in skin moisture after a single use. Improved radiance and glow are typically noticed within 1-2 weeks of daily use. Skin barrier improvement and the cumulative 49% moisturisation boost develop over 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Many users report needing fewer skincare products overall after 8+ weeks.
This is your Step 1 — the first product in both your morning and evening routine. It is designed as a one-step cleanser that replaces both your makeup remover/oil cleanser and your regular cleanser. No double cleansing is necessary. After cleansing, continue with toner or mist, serum, moisturiser, and SPF (morning only). Lisa recommends pairing with her Skin and Makeup Enhancing Mist as Step 2.
No. The brand states that all key oils in the formula are non-comedogenic. Caprylic/capric triglyceride and glycerin both have a comedogenic rating of 0. Squalane is also non-comedogenic. As a wash-off product, ingredient contact time is minimal, further reducing any pore-clogging risk. The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5 — very low risk. Prickly pear oil's antibacterial properties also help keep pores clear.
The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The self-preserving, anhydrous formula is naturally resistant to microbial growth without synthetic preservatives. The hygienic squeeze tube design further protects the product from contamination. With the recommended blueberry-sized amount per use, the 100ml tube typically lasts 3-4 months with daily evening use, or longer if used less frequently.
Verdict: The Lisa Eldridge Skin Enhancing Treatment Cleanser is a genuinely innovative, award-winning cleansing balm that delivers on its ambitious claims. Its minimalist 11-ingredient formula, clinical backing (+83% hydration, 100% makeup removal), and 3-in-1 versatility place it in a class of its own among luxury cleansers. The fragrance-free, preservative-free formulation is a standout for sensitive and reactive skin. The main drawbacks are the premium price point and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. If you value clean, effective, multi-purpose skincare and can invest in a luxury cleanser, this is one of the best balm cleansers available today.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Avena Sativa Kernel Oil
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil
|
|







