Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser

RRP: £14 for 150ml; £7 for 50ml

--What does the promo say?--
"This gentle cleanser transforms into an airy mousse for delightful soap-free cleansing. Skin is left fresh and clear, but never stripped."

--Packaging--
A nice-looking opaque white plastic canister, with a silver logo featuring a bunch of grapes (presumably to underline the 'vinotherapy' that pervades the Caudalie philosophy). Pump-action; comes in smaller size for travel.

--Application--
The Caudalie website recommends that you apply this to damp skin morning and evening, massaging with circular motions, before washing off with warm water. You can also mix it with the Gentle Buffing Cream for mild yet rich exfoliation. However, I found that the quantity required is difficult to get right, with too little leading to inadequate cleansing and too much leading to wastage.

--Scent--
Being packed full of good stuff like sage and camomile as well as the token grape extracts, it naturally smells divine and fruity.

--Appearance--
A white foam which disappears and becomes transparent on the face, though encouragingly becomes a thicker, creamier and more luxurious foam when rubbed between wet hands.

--Texture/consistency--
A smooth foam that glides easily across the face and is easy to rinse off. However, I earlier mentioned that it is difficult to get the required quantity right, and this is exacerbated by the fact that if you apply too little, this dries very quickly on the face, meaning that while you can add more, it's a little counterproductive if what you've already applied has already evaporated.

--Effects over time--
Sadly, I noticed no improvement (although no worsening either) of my somewhat acneic skin during my use of this product, although I am willing to attribute this to the fact that this cleanser is allegedly 'for all skin types' and that I arguably require something more specialised. I also noticed no especial smoothening or softening effects.

--Value for money--
This didn't really work for me, though its pleasantness to use and its natural origins could tempt me to try another Caudalie cleanser (such as their Cleansing Water, which contains mint). For more apparent results at a similar price, I'd steer readers in the direction of Liz Earle or Garnier.

perfect partners
Gentle Buffing Cream, £17 for 60ml
Vinopure Purifying Concentrate, £25 for 15ml
Vinopure Matte Finish Fluid, £25 for 40ml