If you didn’t already realise, I no longer use cleansing oils to remove makeup and as my first step of cleansing so despite being a huge fan of them before, you won’t see anymore going forth. These days, I’m all about cleansing balms because cleansing oils are far too drying for my skin and I find that balms work better on my dry skin. I started out using the Antipodes Grapeseed Butter Cleanser which I loved, and have incidentally finished and scraped clean, so it was time I experimented with another.
It was at about this time that I discovered that The Body Shop had come up with the Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter, which had my senses pricked and my interest piqued.
This then, is a balm cleanser which comes in a large flat screw top tin and a consistency that reminds me a lot of shoe wax. I’m sorry, it does! I spent many weekends as a child helping to wax my parents’ leather shoes (child labour yo! LOL) and I know my shoe waxes.
I managed to get a sample of this for evaluation and I must say that it is interesting. It retails for just RM63 which isn’t very pricey, considering all the other cleansing balms I’m using or have stockpiled and will be using and a little does go a long way. But this is something that I think you have to work out for yourself if you’d like it.
As I said, the product comes in a large flat tin and it has a waxy feel. I have the ingredient list below and while I’m not the cleverest person around to read ingredient lists, there is something called “synthetic wax” on the list. So my analogy of shoe wax isn’t too far off the mark 😛
To use it, you use your fingers (or a spare spatula you have lying around if you’re not keen on using your fingers) and dig into the wax to gouge out some product. Once you dig that first hole, it gets easier, as you can see above. I’m working my way through this tub from one side so technically, in the jargon of enthusiastic beauty bloggers everywhere, “I’ve hit pan!” 😛
I find this quite interesting, because when I place the product in the palm of my hand, it almost immediately starts to melt. Rub my hands together and it turns into a texture approximating a clear oil. Yes, it seems to turn right into a cleansing oil! The texture is light, which is a marked difference from the Antipodes butter cleanser that has a pronounced balmy texture.
I find the product applies very easily over the skin and you can massage it in the way you do an oil cleanser, to remove your makeup and impurities. If you are familiar with an oil cleanser, then this feels the same and works the same way. It just starts out in a solid form, so if you choose to travel with it, it’s excellent.
I don’t use this as a makeup remover however. I do one round of cleansing with Bioderma micellar water first. Also, although it says in the instructions that you can just rinse this off (think cleansing oil again – emulsify and then wash off) I find that it is best removed with a face cloth (I wish it was sold with one!)
You see, I don’t know if it’s that synthetic wax ingredient in there, but I find that there’s a film on my skin after using this. So, if I don’t remove with a face cloth, then this film is very pronounced. Even when I do use a face cloth, after going over my skin a few times with the cloth, and then rinsing it, I still find that there is a film on my skin. A second round of cleansing usually gets rid of it, but for this reason, I am not a fan of this product.
When I was using the Antipodes Butter Cleanser, once I wiped it off, my skin would feel smooth, soft and clean. With this one, it feels smooth but with a strange slippery feeling on my skin. Personally, I think if you have skin that is prone to clogging or acne, I don’t think this is the best product for you.
Oh there is also a scent which I believe is that of camomile. Not unpleasant but not a scent I like. All in all, this isn’t a dud for me, and I will finish it off. I just will not repurchase.
In a nutshell
The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter is to me, a solid cleansing oil. It has a solid form in the flat tin that it comes in, but on contact with skin, it melts quite easily into a clear liquid form. It is easy to use – just spread over your face, massage it in and then remove. While it says that it can be removed by just rinsing with water (please be sure to emulsify properly before that using the cleansing oil method) I will suggest that a muslin or face cloth removes the product better. I feel that it leaves a film on my skin even after using a cloth which is removed when I do my second cleanse, but I don’t like that feeling. So, I think this is a nice bridge for those who want to try something other than a cleansing oil. It’s different, yet familiar.
Pros: Portable, Affordable, Easy to use if you are used to using cleansing oils, Easy to remove
Cons: Film on skin after washing off, Should be sold with a cloth for better product removal, Minor breakouts due to presence of olive oil (I can’t use anything with olive oil or its derivatives)
Who will like this: Anyone who wants to try a different cleanser and makeup remover other than cleansing oils, Anyone who wants a makeup remover that is more portable than cleansing oil
Here is the ingredient list for anyone interested.
Oh interestingly, I just noticed that this has olive fruit oil which usually breaks me out like nothing else if it’s present in skincare. I did notice one or two spots since, which I thought were due to poor sleeping habits but I now think may be attributed to this one. It isn’t as bad as some of the other breakouts I’ve suffered thanks to olive oil and its derivatives, but I’m cutting back on using this one for now. If your skin isn’t bugged by olive oil then ignore this bit of rambling 🙂
Have you already tried this cleansing butter? Have you tried the cloth cleansing method yet?
It upsets me when a highly anticipated product falters as this has, for me. I suppose I rather expected a little more or maybe I was spoilt by the truly sumptuous textured Antipodes Grapeseed Butter Cleanser. Oh and the cloth cleansing method is truly life … ok, not life, but skin changing for me and for the better! 😀
Paris B
The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter Price: RM63/76g (less if on sale – currently 20% off) Availability: The Body Shop stores or website
Yup. Exactly what I thought too. I tried it once when I first got it and it freaked me out lol. So it’s sitting on my counter now and I don’t know what to do with it hahaha!
Haha the film thing? Did you try using a cloth to remove? I saw that TBS now sells muslin cloths which I think is meant to be used with this product, although they don’t say so. The film effect is less pronounced after I use a cloth to wipe off, but definitely rinsing just isn’t enough.
Tracy, you could try waxing shoes with it… :p (just kidding!!!)
I’ve been using Ren cleansing balm for a while now too and I find that it leaves a film. I always double cleanse so it doesn’t bother me, same with when I use cleansing oils. I have to do another round of cleansing foam before toner.
Compared to Ren cleansing balm, this looks much more affordable though (Ren is $50USD for the tub!). I will have to check it out at my local Body Shop!
That’s interesting, Sheila! I just started using the REN Cleansing balm! 😀 Mine comes in a tube though, which I think is the new packaging. But once I use a cloth to remove, my skin feels lovely! No film, and just soft and clean 😀 Then again, we will all react different. If you double cleanse then this TBS one won’t cause you any problems either, unless you too have a problem with olive oil as I do 😀
I’ve been delaying my review because I really dislike this. It does feel like wax, too light in texture even for my normal combination skin and that waxy film left on the skin really bothers me. I have to use a foam cleanser after to get rid of it. I have no problems whatsoever with my Bobbi Brown Extra Balm Rinse.
I’ve only used it about 3 times and I just don’t feel like using it anymore.
Even though it only costs RM63, I still think I’ve wasted my money on this 🙁
The Bobbi Brown one is next on my to-try list 🙂 I sampled it at the store and it feels promising. Am just a little concerned about the citrus elements and the slippery texture but we’ll see. I didn’t face too much problems with the TBS one mostly because I used a cloth that got rid of most of the film (still there but less uncomfortable) and I always double cleanse so it got everything off. Just didn’t quite like how the whole thing feels otherwise so will use up, just won’t repurchase.
Hey Paris, thought of trying out your cleansing routine. 🙂
How do you cleanse your face these days? Does it end with the face towel plus Antipodes cleansing balm? Or do you follow up with another facial cleanser?
Oh, one more thing. Has your skincare routine been more or less the same these days? Would be nice if you could dedicate a page to share your daily skincare routine, as in the product you use everday etc. And update it whenever your routine changes majorly? Just a suggestion though 🙂
Great day ahead Paris!
Hi Carol, I’ve briefly mentioned the sequence on how I use a face cloth and a cleansing balm/cream in this post about using a face cloth. In brief, any cleansing balm/cream/oil comes first in a double cleansing routine. If you already do a double cleansing routine, use the face cloth in the first step, followed by your usual face cleanser.
My skincare routine is similar, only the products change. I did think about having a page about it, but I could never keep it updated so I’ll post it up occasionally just to update things. If you see this post where I shared my day and night skincare products and routine, it’s the same. The only difference is with the products I use that will change from time to time and currently, I slot a cleansing balm/cream in between the makeup remover and Vichy face wash 🙂
Ahh, so it’s a triple cleanse then. Allright, got it Paris, thanks! 🙂
For me it is only because I prefer to use a specific makeup remover. However most first step cleansing products whether balm, oil or cream also act as makeup removers. I’m just anal I guess lol!
Sorry to say I wouldn’t trust anything from Bodyshop these days, I find the fragrance is too strong and the products a bit gimmicky.
I haven’t been using any skincare from The Body Shop in a long time 😀 This was the first because I thought it might be a nice affordable option for me since I’m into cleansing balms and there aren’t many in the market. Too bad it didn’t meet my expectations 😀
Hello Applegal… you know what, I feel the same way as you. If I venture into Bodyshop on my own and pick up skincare product, it always end up in disappointment… Too bad. My first makeup remover was the Camomile range. It said “gentle”… but stung my eyes like fire. Hated it. And a lot of times their product contains shea butter… a scent that triggers my poor husband’s migraine immediately… haigh…
I got it a few days ago and I didn’t like it . Particularly the “film” that is left after cleansing , forcing me to use another cleanser that foams up to clear it off (which is a bother as some of my cleansers only foams up a little ).
Got this on discount but my wallet still feels painful since this is just sitting inside my “never-use-again” box .
Did you try using a cloth, Robert? Seriously, if you just rinse the way they say you should, all you end up with is a face full of wax 😛 I always double cleanse so it didn’t bug me thereafter as I follow up all cleansing oil/cream/balms with a foaming cleanser. But if you aren’t familiar with the concept of double cleansing, then this will be a good time to start 😉
Oh I double cleanse all the time (except for in the mornings ). I’ll try the top with the cloth 🙂 thanks ~
Good lad! 😉 try with a cloth and see if it helps. No point letting it go to waste!
I can see that you have been on the cleansing butter route lately and it is excellent! Been wanting to try the clinique cleansing balm but am so afraid if balms are not really suitable for my skintype. I shall pick up one for sure but not very soon. Trying to finish off the various cleansers I have right now… but mostly because I am afraid that my skin won’t like a cleansing balm formula. I’m staying away from this one for sure although the price is such a pull factor. Sigh…
I have the Clinique one on standby! 😀 I hear it’s excellent but I hope not to be disappointed 🙂 I think cleansing balms can work for everyone. The trick really is in the technique to remove. Just like cleansing oils need to be properly emulsified, cleansing balms work best when removed with a muslin or just normal face cloth and then follow up with another cleanser 😉
Ahh I’m jealous! When are you reviewing that? I’ve been doing some research and have read some saying they have spots coming out after using the clinique take the day off cleansing balm. So I am not too keen for now. But u kinda sold me on the antipodes one ????
Haha I THINK I bought it la, I just have to go look for it cos I can’t recall if it’s clinique or rmk that I got lol! I really like the Antipodes one but I have to warn you that it doesn’t “wash” off like this or from what I understand, the Clinique one too. But that makes my skin feel so lovely and soft and smooth!
I seldom use body butter because I always feel oily after using it. The scent is too strong too especially those in Body Shop.
Interesting Melissa 🙂 This isn’t a body butter, but a face cleansing butter. I don’t use body butters either because they are far too oily for my liking. I stick by my body oils.
I looked at this recently and did not like the texture. I really thought it looked like shoe wax too. LOL. Reading about your skin cleansing routine, does it mean you triple cleanse – Bioderma Micellar Water-Cleansing Balm-Vichy cleanser? I am still deciding on whether to switch to cleansing balm routine because I am just too lazy to wash all my flannels. Hahaha. I have been using Bioderma Micellar Water in place of my cleansing oil before using a foam or gel cleanser and I have to say that my skin looks clearer. Not sure if because the micellar water helps in exfoliating the skin?
Oh good! The shoe wax reference wasn’t lost LOL! Yes, I actually triple cleanse. I’ll get round to writing about it one day 😛 I do a first round of makeup removal – eye makeup with eye makeup remover and then face with Bioderma just very quickly with 1 pass. Then I hop into the shower, do my cleansing balm routine with a flannel and then finish off with my Vichy 😀 This isn’t for everyone, I’ll say. Only for the very dedicated. If you want something quick, then just the Bioderma to remove makeup and first step of cleansing (I’d do 2-3 passes to make sure all product is taken off) and then follow up with your second cleanser. I do think part of the benefits of using the Bioderma is also the cotton pad exfoliation because you have to wipe right? I actually rub at my skin in circular motions 🙂 It may seem like a waste to some people to use so many cotton pads, but the gentle exfoliation of our skin helps us a lot and then products go on better so we end up with better skin 🙂
Hey, a very nice and detailed review, I enjoyed reading it. Do you think this cleansing butter will suit oily skin, from your review it sounds like it won’t.
🙂
Hi, I think this might actually suit someone with oily skin better than someone with dry skin 🙂 That said as you may have realised most of us who have tried it have a problem with the film texture on our skin. I find it is less of a problem if you remove with a cloth instead of just rinsing. And definitely double cleanse!
The texture reminds me of rice pudding… o_O;
Haha! Only when you scrape it up 😉
I’ll be the party pooper here and say I actually like this cleansing butter! 😛
But on the other hand, I never tried out any other cleansing butters, so… maybe that’s why, since I haven’t tried out anything better!
I don’t find that it leaves a film, but my skin is normal/sometimes a bit dry!
I’m thinking of trying out the Clinique one when I finish this TBS one 🙂
Xx
Hi Ruth, I’m very happy that you shared that you like it! I was sure not everyone would dislike it since it does get a lot of love 🙂 I haven’t tried the Clinique one but it seems to be super popular too. I’m presently using REN and its early days but it looks very promising!
I’m gifted with the Clinique one recently! Can’t wait to finish up my current one and get started with it. I have high expectations for it. Hope it don’t fail me.
I hope not too Lisa! I got hold of the Clinique one recently. Let’s see how that fares eh? 🙂
I think my skin also hates olive oil. I tried Hada Labo cleansing oil some time ago. I believe it has that supposedly good ingredient. Boy did it make me breakout! And this is coming from someone who is fine with using products containing mineral oil.
And, oh, squalane is also a problem for me. Topically at least.
Sounds like we’re the same! My skin tolerates mineral oil (no discernible problems) but olive oil makes it go nuts.
You got me in stitches right from the beginning till three quarter of the post. The shoe wax and child labour were too hilarious. All laughed and said, I am sorry it didn’t work out for you and broke out on you too. Better luck with Antipodes. During my schooling years, The Body Shop was da bomb – natural, animal cruelty free and somehow exquisite because it’s a single shop selling products from head to toe. But over the years, after trying their body butter and body scrub that more often than not, leave me feeling like Orang Minyak…they just no longer pique my interest anymore. The only minor exception might be their perfume. I liked Oceanus and White Musk.
Haha you and I share the same good memories of TBS. It was a store I loved going into and I actually used a lot of face products from there. The Tea Tree Oil face wash was a fave as was the now discontinued Passionfruit face cleaner, and I used to use the Vitamin E and Jojoba creams. Ah good days 🙂 I can’t use a lot of their products anymore these days. The shower gels dry out my hands and although this was promising since it came highly rated, it just didn’t do it for me.
Paris, your parents must be so proud of you since you were a child. What a good girl you are! 🙂
I have shy away from Bodyshop for a long time. They were attractive when I was a teenager. You know, all those fruity lip balms and cheapish perfume. And their Vit. E skincare range which a friend of mine raved about… I bought day and night moisturises for le husband but he had skin irritation (and they stung his eyes I think) using it. Oh well. Having said that, the Vit. C serum that you reviewed before was good. Smells lovely and I quite like it. I wouldn’t have bought it if I didn’t read your review about it as I have too many disppointments with Bodyshop products. 🙁
LOL! It was part of my chores! Hated it to be honest but Dad would always make sure we got it done even if we complain. Maybe that’s why I don’t wax my shoes now 😛 They do make them last a lot longer and look much better though. Like you I was really into the TBS once too. I was using their Vitamin E moisturiser for years until I realised it was feeling more oily than comfortable and then I wandered and the rest is history! As for the Vit. C serum, I read they’d reformulated it. I’m not sure how good it is anymore because it’s been years since I tried any skincare from TBS.
I havent try the cleansing butter before as I personally don’t really like the texture when it landed on my face. I still prefer to go for the remover or the wipes. Lol!
Yep, takes some getting used to. I find these cleansing balms work best when removed with a cloth. If you don’t use the cloth method then it’s just too uncomfortable.
Hi Paris! The olive oil again! I think a combination of that and the filmy residue (even after double cleansing with foaming face wash + face cloth) congested my face and gave me breakouts. The hunt for cleansing balm continues, and now I am intrigued to try the Antipodes one!
Gah! that damned olive oil! 😛 I use mine on alternate days. Trying hard to finish it up! I really liked the Antipodes one but the texture is really thick so you have to sort of “understand” it. I was using the Ren one which isn’t bad too. Has a nice balmy texture on the skin.
The scent puts me off – if it was something else, I’d try it. I’ll stick with Shu 🙂
You’re right, there’s that odd scent. Doesn’t bug me, but I just don’t like the oily texture. I prefer a balm to stay a balm.