I’m a beauty editor, and I’ve used this brilliant cleanser for 17 years – now it’s half price

As a beauty editor, my skincare routine varies wildly, as I rotate new launches that I’m testing in and out. But every so often, something comes along that stands out as the ‘best in show’ for its category, and takes up permanent residency in my bathroom. And when it runs out, I buy a new one with my own money. And that’s exactly what happened with the Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm, which normally retails at £75, but is currently on sale for £37.50.

I first tried this golden, buttery balm back in 2009, when British facialist Emma Hardie launched her eponymous skincare line. Cleansing balms weren’t a completely new concept at the time, but most of the ones available were heavy and left a greasy residue on the skin. This was, and still is, entirely different. It’s buttery to the touch but melts instantly into the silkiest oil, dissolving makeup with almost no effort.

What makes the Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm so special?

It’s largely down to the star ingredient, moringa seed extract, which comes from a tree nicknamed the “miracle tree”, thanks to its high concentration of skin-boosting oils and antioxidants. In the balm, it’s paired with other skin-caring ingredients, including hydrating vitamin E and wild sea fennel extract, which helps boost skin luminosity. 

Once you add water, the balm emulsifies and rinses away with ease. It comes with the best cleansing cloth on the market. Forget flimsy, thin muslin. This is a proper, robust double-sided flannel. One side gently exfoliates; the other buffs away any excess product, leaving skin feeling soft and looking plump and refreshed. 

Why I keep going back

I’ve honestly lost count of how many tubs of this cleanser I’ve gone through. Emma Hardie has launched newer iterations since (there’s a lighter gel version and a vitamin C-infused version), but I always come back to the OG, Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm. It’s a considered purchase, no doubt, and it feels trite to say, but a little really does go a long way. You only need to use a cleansing balm in the evening to properly dissolve the day’s dirt, grime, SPF and makeup, so one tub lasts the best part of six months.

Then there’s the scent. It’s a spa in a jar. A blend of essential oils that turns massaging it into your skin into a genuine moment of mindfulness at the end of a long day. There’s something quietly luxurious about slowing down for those 30 seconds, feeling the balm warm between your fingers before it (literally) melts the day away.

And that brings me to the current offer. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen it at 50% off; I’d honestly consider buying two at this price, which would likely see you through the best part of a year.

There are few skincare products that have stayed part of my routine for so long. My skin’s needs have changed dramatically from when I first tried this as a 26-year-old to where I am now, age 43, but this cleanser has always worked for me. Through hormonal pregnancy skin, post-partum dullness, COVID-induced stressed skin, and now when my hormones are in flux again. It sounds overdramatic to say this has been a constant when so much else hasn’t, but it’s true. And you won’t get it at a better price, so go and snap it up. It’s a payday treat you won’t regret.

Buy the Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm, was £75 now £37.50