Review: Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser

I know it's still a little unusual of me to review high-end products, but as I mentioned before, I feel it's important to review things in this category that are both above average and... well, below average, to put things nicely. :) This keeps both you and I more informed on the quality of products from all price ranges, which I believe is important.

I first got the chance to try Philosophy products when my mother and I bought the Jump Starters kit that included several items (some of which will also be reviewed in the future). I wasn't terribly impressed with some of them, but this face wash was very different.

Intrigued yet? Here's what I think of the Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser.

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Product Description: "Philosophy's Purity Made Simple is their very best, high-powered, one-step facial cleanser. It rapidly dissolves dirt and makeup, deep cleans the pores of your skin, plus is pH balanced. Contains sage, chamomile, and carrot infusions."

Price: $20/8 oz., $32/16 oz, $40/24 oz.

Results: I was more than skeptical about this product after trying another face wash from Philosophy and being rather unimpressed. I wondered, "What's so great about this one? What makes it worth the price tag?"

While it's nice that it smells fresh, carries nice packaging, and has the creamiest texture of any wash I've tried, none of these things is what makes this product special. What sets this wash apart from every other facial cleanser is its formula and ingredients. Its unique blend of oils, antioxidants and ingredients like chamomile, carrot, and sage extract not only protect your skin, but leave it feeling great. In fact, it's the least drying face wash I've encountered - ever. Why? Because it made my skin feel even more moisturized than before I washed it! I also noticed it felt smooth, soft, clean, and conditioned. I've never experienced a cleanser that has been able to accomplish all these things so well. This is one reason I believe this wash would be fantastic for dry skin types, but poor for very oily skin. There are probably too many moisturizers and conditioners for you oily gals to really benefit from it much.

I have rather sensitive skin, but the ingredients in this wash did not break me out, either. Super- sensitive skin should be cautious, though, and check the full ingredient listing for potentially irritating substances.

While others claim it removes every bit of makeup from their faces easily, I didn't always experience this. With my first few washes, I found traces of my mascara left on my towel, and my eyeliner was never totally removed. This is one of very few negatives, though. When I washed longer and a little more vigorously, though, I found 95-99% of my makeup did come off.

My verdict on this product is that while I, myself, can't exactly justify spending $20 for 8 ounces of product, if you can... then go for it! This would be among my top picks for a facial cleanser, with its great moisturizing and cleansing effects and wide array of great ingredients. It would not be as beneficial to oily skin, especially very oily types, but is a great choice for normal, dry, and combination skin types. Its fresh, clean smell and super-creamy texture make it enjoyable to use... a treat you'll actually look forward to every morning.

Would I repurchase? Yes... if I had that much disposable income. Until I do, I'll request it as a gift!

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You'll like this product if: You're searching for your HG cleanser, you have dry to combo skin, you aren't on a tight budget

You won't like this product if: You have oily skin, you wouldn't think of touching a $20 face wash with a ten-foot pole

Rating: 4.5/5


Image: sephora.com