GIFTED | Finding your ideal skincare products can sometimes feel like searching for the Holy Grail. As a trained Beauty Specialist (albeit one that doesn’t practice any more) I’ve always been interested in skincare. Technically, I’m more of a skincare blogger than a beauty blogger, but that tag isn’t as SEO friendly. So, when one of the most exciting PR boxes ever from the cult REN Clean Skincare * brand dropped through my letterbox, I couldn’t believe my luck.
REN Clean Skincare
REN have been on my radar for some time. I’ve read so many good things about the brand and some of my favourite bloggers, including Sophie from GlowSteady, swear by their products. The Clean Skincare tag comes from their commitment to using natural bio-actives, that help skin help itself. And saying no to harsh chemicals and waste. All of their elegant and stylish packaging is 100% recyclable and uses reclaimed ocean plastic where possible. I was very kindly sent three products to try, which I’ve been using over the last few weeks. How did I get on?
Rosa Centifolia™ No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm*
“A rich cleansing balm for all skin types that leaves skin purified, calm and glowing.” When you warm a little of the balm in your hands it turns into an oil that you massage over your face and neck for a few minutes. Then you add water to turn it into a milky lather that rinses away.
I’ve not used a cleansing balm or oil before but I was very surprised by this one. It took off all my make up easily, with the exception of my eye make up. I had to remove that separately, but in fairness, I do wear a LOT of mascara and liner. And my skin positively glowed after the very first use, it didn’t feel stripped or tight at all. The main ingredients are nourishing almond oil and Rosa Centifolia flower water, which must be what makes this balm smell so gorgeous. After a few weeks’ use, I can see an improvement in my skin tone and fewer blackheads around my nose as well.
Rose water is often used as a toner so you’re effectively getting both cleansing and toning uses from this product. It also came with a muslin cloth that you can use to remove the balm, although I didn’t because I didn’t want to get it dirty (even though that’s what it’s for!) This is the loveliest cleanser I’ve ever used, well deserving of all the kudos it’s garnered, and I’m not at all surprised it’s a bestseller. It’s certainly a fixture in my skincare routine now. If you’d like to try it too, click here to buy Rosa Centifolia™ No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm* right now on Amazon*.
Sirtuin Phytohormone Replenishing Cream
“An anti-ageing moisturiser for pre- or post-menopausal skin, designed to recharge and replenish.” This is one of REN’s newer products, which helps to promote longevity in the cells and strengthen the skin’s natural barriers. The cream is meant to be used both day and night, over your face and neck.
After using the cream both night and day for a few days, I stopped using it in the morning because my skin simply didn’t need it. I was getting too much of an oily glow by around 11.00am. Now I just apply it at night, after cleansing and using my exfoliating toner. And I smooth it over my décolletage as well (taking my mother’s advice.)
The main ingredients are rice protein extract and wild West African yam for stronger, more supple skin. In case you’re wondering about those phytohormones, here’s how Wikipedia defines them. “Plant hormones that control all aspects of growth and development, pathogen defence, stress tolerance and reproductive development.” Pretty powerful stuff, and I can confirm they work!
My oily T-zone was the bane of my teenage years and early twenties. Strangely enough, it was my father who told me I’d be grateful for it when I was older and he’s right. I don’t really have many wrinkles on my face except for a gazillion crows feet around my eyes, which I prefer to call laughter lines 😉 Although I’m loving how much more plumped up and radiant my face looks even first thing in the morning, I think this formula would be the perfect moisturiser for someone with drier skin than mine.
Update: since this post was written, the cream is no longer available. However, I believe either of these two creams would be ideal replacements: REN Clean Skincare – V-Cense Revitalising Night Cream* or REN Clean Skincare Bio Retinoid™ Anti-Ageing Cream*.
Perfect Canvas Primer Serum*
“A perfecting serum for all skin types, designed to sit over moisturiser to smooth fine lines and prime skin for make-up.” You smooth a couple of drops over your face after moisturising (or add it to your moisturiser if you’re pushed for time) and before make-up. I haven’t yet found a primer that can reduce the shine for more than a couple of hours, but I live in hope.
This primer feels very lightweight and gives my skin a soft matte look rather than a chalky one. My skin looks like skin, only better, like you see in the magazines. My make-up goes on like a dream and although my oily T-zone wins out again by mid-morning, my skin doesn’t feel clogged. The main ingredients are blue agave, probiotics and alpha-glucans, with no silicones, so skin can breathe.
It’s so good that it’s given me the confidence to go make-up free at weekends (bar a little eye make-up). I love it. If you’d like to try it too, click here to buy Perfect Canvas Primer Serum* right now on Amazon*.
REN are celebrating Perfect Canvas’ first anniversary with a Limited Edition bottle that comes with some illustrated art transfers, so you can customise your bottle, how you like it. I was very lucky to get one of these and as a lipstick lover, of course I decorated mine with lipstick transfers!
Are REN Clean Skincare products worth it?
- Made with natural bio-active ingredients and no harsh chemicals
- Designed to support skin health and radiance
- Cleansing balm removes makeup and leaves skin glowing
- Moisturiser helps improve texture and hydration
- Primer smooths skin and enhances makeup application
- Overall effective, with several products becoming skincare staples
I’ve been wanting to try some REN Clean Skincare products for a long time as I’m a big fan of brands that use natural ingredients which are closer to our skin. Skin is the biggest organ on our body so it makes sense to only apply products that you’d be happy (in theory at least) to put in your body too. And I have to say I’m extremely impressed with all the skincare products I’ve been testing, my skin looks and feels clean, fresh and rejuvenated. Huge thanks to REN for sending me all these products, I can honestly say that they’ve bumped some of my previous skincare favourites off their long time undisputed top spots now.
Have you tried any REN Clean Skincare products before? Are you tempted to try any of them now? Which products are your skincare Holy Grails?
* I was gifted these products in exchange for a review but all opinions are my own. This post also contains affiliate links, please see my Disclaimer for more details.
My skin has been in terrible condition lately, and I’ve been trying to take much better care of it, so this immediately caught my eye! I’m so glad you are happy with the products – they sound amazing, especially the cleansing balm. I love the fact it’s given you the confidence to go make up free, too, I really feel like that goes to show what the right products can do.
I don’t think the shift in the weather and central heating is helpful for anyone’s skin but finding skincare products that work is certainly a big step in the right direction! You’re right, feeling comfortable in your own skin is a real vindication of that 🙂 xx
I love REN skincare products oh so much – I swear by the AHA Tonic to keep my skin looking clear and bright, and their global defence day cream is gorgeous for those days when I don’t want to think about my routine and just want my skin to look nice! I’ve been curious about the cleanser for a while, and I think I might have to make a sneaky purchase…
Cordelia || cordeliamoor.com
This is my first time using anything from REN but oh my goodness, it surely won’t be the last. I’ve heard really good things about their toners too so as soon as the one I’m using is finished I think that might be a sneaky purchase of mine! xx
I haven’t tried any before, but the cleanser sounds lovely! I use a budget cleanser at the moment but I’d definitely pay more for something nicer.
Cora | https://www.teapartyprincess.co.uk/
This is quite honestly the best cleanser I’ve tried. OK, I need to remove my eye make up separately, but in terms of how fresh and soft my skin feels afterwards, it’s fabulous! x
I’ve always wanted to try some skincare products from REN! I keep hearing such good things about them all but the cleanser especially! My skin has been awful lately so maybe now is the time to treat myself to a few bits. I always love the packaging and design of REN, your photos are so beautiful too xx
Tiffany x http://www.foodandotherloves.co.uk
I’ve never heard anything but good things about REN and I can certainly see why. The cleanser is amazing, definitely one on the repurchase list in due course, it’s so gentle and such a treat to use. And thank you, that’s so lovely of you to say that about my photos, much appreciated! xx
Wow Lisa, these products sound amazing! The primer serum sounds so good, especially as it has given you the confidence to go make-up free at the weekends. I’m loving the sound of all the natural and healthy ingredients, I never knew probiotics could be added to beauty products, that’s gotta be so good for the skin. At the moment, my sister is staying with me, so I’ve been taking the opportunity to use all her beauty creams ha ha, but when I have to buy my own again I’ll definitely consider REN products. Also, ever since I read your beauty tips your mother gave you post, I’ve remembered to moisturize my neck and chest everyday too, so thank you, I’m always learning something new from your blog. Great post lovely and gorgeous photos <3 xx
Honestly, these are some of the best products I’ve ever used, I feel incredibly lucky to have had the chance to try them. I love that they’re so natural and good for you too, I hate using products with chemicals in, it’s so much nicer when you don’t have to. And thank you, what a lovely thing to say about my blog, you are so kind! xxx
I didn’t know you were a trained beauty specialist! I’ve seen these products EVERYWHERE but never tried them. I’ve heard nothing but good things. Great review and lovely photos! 🙂 xxx
It was a long time ago, haha, before I had Flora! Thank you so much, I think everything you’ve heard is fully justified! xxx
I’m so happy you liked them! I love oily, balmy cleansers. I can’t believe you’d never used one before. I’m glad you got on well with Perfect Canvas, that’s the one I had my eye on. Amazing that it’s given you more confidence too! Great review and thank you for the mention!! x
Sophie
http://www.glowsteady.co.uk
The cleanser is fabulous, I’m a complete convert to oily cleansers now, and the Perfect Canvas is wonderful, definitely one to try, I think you’d love it. You’re very welcome! xx
I really need to try more from Ren! Their products are always so fab!
Love, Amie ❤
The Curvaceous Vegan
This is my first time trying and I have to agree with you!
I have heard so much about Ren Skincare in the past and everyone seems so pleased with them indeed! My skincare routine is quite minimal but I am always interested to find out about new products!
I have too, and after using these for a few weeks, I can see why there’s so much hype, it’s all completely justified!
Wow, these products sound amazing! I hadn’t heard of this brand before, but will definitely have to check out a few of these products. The cleansing balm you mentioned first really does sounds incredible. My skincare products are getting a bit low now and soon will need to be replaced, so I’ll definitely be looking into these! That primer also sounds amazing. I haven’t got a new one yet, but this one sounds like it’s worth trying! The art transfers are so cute too for this, haha. Thank you for sharing, great review 🙂
Amy,
https://creativenails.uk
Honestly, the products I’ve been trialling have been amazing, they’ve made my skin so clear and soft. If only I were brave enough to take a selfie I could prove it! xx
I’m on the hunt for a good primer at the moment and I’ve not heard of this brand or primer before so this post came at the perfect time! Loving your write up and photos – I love a brand which leaves your skin feeling refreshed and clean! Thanks for sharing xx
Oh, I’m so glad, that’s what you always want to hear when you write a review, thank you! Let me know what you think if you do try the primer, I’m sure you’d love it! xx
I’m not huge into skin care but I do love that this is natural!
It really is, which is probably one of the reasons it works so effectively 🙂
My skin is not at its best at the moment but after reading your post, I’ll definitely be giving Ren a go. Perfect Canvas is something that sounds like I will love
It’s such a good brand, so well loved, and I have to say I can see why now 🙂
Not tried this one before but the cleansing balm sounds lush!
It really is, I can’t recommend it highly enough!
This has inspired me to do a skin care routine post, mine inst with ren though but now im inspired to look into there line more
thank you sm <3
LOVE ALWAYS,
K A R E N
Oh wow, that sounds great, I’ll have to keep an eye out for that one! x
Oooh I’ve been looking into more planet friendly beauty products so it’s great to hear that their packaging is recyclable and that they’re responsible! I’ve never tried any REN but absolutely must after this review, I’m a bit of a skincare addict as you know so the brand has been added to the list!
Soph – https://sophhearts.com x
I know you are, I thought you might like this review! If you are in the market for some new eco friendly products then I think you’d love REN. Let me know how you get on if you do try some 🙂 xx
All of these products sound amazing! ☺️
Jenny • https://sparkleandstyleblogger.wordpress.com
They really are 🙂
This is such an interesting post, I always like to read up on other skincare products. I like companies that use natural ingredients! Thank you for sharing xx
Oh, I do too, I’d much rather use natural ingredients on my skin wherever I possibly can! xx
These sound really nice. I don’t do enough to help my skin out, so I’m always interested in what people think of different products. I have been hearing good things about REN, so maybe it is time I joined the club too!
Thanks for sharing ♥
REN have been on my radar for ages but I’ve always been nervous about committing to a new range in case it didn’t work out. I’m happy to say that these are fabulous, I’m very lucky! x
This brand Is on my radar too! I’ve been eyeing it up in M&S for a while now. Very inspired to go ahead and try it, especially as it’s given you confidence to go without makeup at weekends! Definitely need that kind of product in my life!
Samantha x
Oh, that’s wonderful – I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with anything from this brand, their products are just gorgeous. Do let me know what you think if you do give them a go! x
Hi there, I am using REN products and especially the ROSA centifolia CLEANSING BALM. What is in this cleanser that makes my nails so strong????? I know it’s this product too. When I use it on my face, my nails get amazing. Do you have any idea what it could be? How can we find out??
I imagine it might be the almond oil, which you find in a lot of nail and cuticle care products. Just an idea though, but lucky you to experience such a great side effect!
I love brands that use natural ingredients plus the fact that their packaging is recyclable! Big plus for me. 🙂
Liz
http://www.piecesofliz.com
Absolutely, they are one of the best brands for this!
I have tried a small sample of the milk cleanser before. It was a long time ago that I tried the product so would want to try it again to see if it benefits my skin.
I’ve never heard of REN before but I would love to try it as my skin has been in a bad condition for many years.
I have noticedRen products before but not actually used them as yet
These sound brilliant. I especially like the look of the cleansing balm. I’ve only used one REN product before, a cleanser with a pump (can’t remember what it was called) and I really liked it. I quite like the idea of getting a few products and sticking to just REN for a while, a bit like I did with No7, rather than using lots of products from different brands. Love your review! 🙂
Thank you so much – and yes, sticking with one range for a while is a good idea as the products tend to complement each other 🙂
I’ve never tried any REN products, but they look as though they might be worth a go
Never used before. Looks interesting though.
I have never used REN before. Sounds great and one to look out for!
I have not tried these skincare products before
Love this brand – CERTAINLY recommend to all
I’ve not tried REN before but it sounds like just the thing my skin needs!
I haven’t before but I love anything natural so it would be worth a try!
Yes i have the AHA toner and it’s lovley i really have noticed a difference in my skin since i have been using it, hope to buy the full size bottle soon.
I’ve never tried but they sound great so think I will be adding to my wishlist xx
Honestly i have never had any kind of skin care routine, day/night cream when i remember and sunscreen when needed
Are these products vegan? If so I would definitely love to try! I
Unfortunately not these ones but REN do have others that are if you search “vegan” on their website.
Haven’t tried them but would love to!
This looks like a range to try for sure!
No i havent, but I may have to look into them more. They sound good.
Never tried, very happy with Liz Earle as it takes off eye makeup as well.
I’ve had a sample of one of their cleansers before. I liked to scent but it wasn’t good for my skin.
I have never used these before but I am always on the look out for good reviews of new products- almost like a try before you buy! x
Never, but I have terrible skin so it would come in useful, I’m sure!
I haven’t, it looks and sounds wonderful, great review and blog post
I haven’t tried any REN skincare productsI don’t think, well none that I can remember
I haven’t but this has definitely tempted me.
Not tried but I am also a fan of brands that use natural ingredients which are closer to our skin.
I’ve never tried REN skincare products, even though I absolutley love skincare.
I’ve not tried but I will let my partner know as they sound amazing
Not tried, but my girlfriend is always buying these.
I have sebborrhoic dermatitis so I have to be really careful with what I use. Have used rose water as a toner before. Used it for over a year to see if I received any benefits. It didn’t irritate my skin but it didn’t make any difference at all to me, either to my condition or to my tone.
It might be worth having a look on the REN website then, to see if they have anything that could be more suitable?
I have not yet tried any of the REN Clean Skincare products.
I haven’t tried any REN Clean Skincare products before. I love the sound of the Primer Serum.
A friend let me use her Ren cleanser when I stayed a while ago – it was lovely and I have it on my shopping list !
These products looks amazing. Lately my skin is very bad. I need this.
Yes I’ve been using them for a few years and love them, I have quite a few of their products and find them all very good.
I love REN products… I have to admit, I haven’t used for a little while, as I’ve been so busy with juggling frontline working and being a single parent, but this will be a priority tonight to order some items! X
Yay, that sounds like the perfect plan! X
No I’ve never tried REN but I would be open to trying them
I haven’t tried any of these products but the REN 1 minute facial is amazing!
Oooh, I’ll have to look into that, thank you.
I haven’t tried any of these before, love the sound of the cleanser and replenishing cream in particular. My skin has definitely been suffering as have to wear a mask all day at work
not tried any yet but have been wanting to as they sound great
These products sound amazing I really need to up my game
I’ve never tried the products before but they sound great especially the primer serum
Not tried any yet x