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Gosh my last post was really Aug 2025?! Sigh! I took an extended break from blogging but I’m back and hope to bring regular updates like before!
This year I want to try out new salons. Whilst I love Maison style (my usual go to salon) I don’t like the wait, it’s a small salon so it comes with the territory, but it just takes forever and the nearby parking is not cheap. Plus, it’s really in my nature to try new things so this year I’m bringing back my salon series and I have 3 salons in mind I want to visit.
At each new salon I will be going for my usual hair services: wash, treatment, blow-dry and trim when needed. I will then review the salon and customer services.
My first salon of the year was Elevate based in Brixton. Ive been considering this place for a long time! Back in 2024 when I was thinking about texture releases, it was between Elevate and Maison style and the only reason I went with the latter was because the head stylist there had done it herself and had so many informational videos on it.
Elevate have 2 locations in Brixton which is about 5 mins walk apart. I didn’t drive this time but its right in the heart of Brixton, I saw some side roads for parking but there’s also a few car parks near by. I got there on time for my app and I was shown to a chair right away! The first stylist came over for a mini consultation and Latisha the stylist I had booked also came over for the consultation. I was given some advice and some new product recommendations. I loved she didn’t just say to stop everything and switch but to finish them and try the new products(I’ve had that before)! She also asked for the products she recommended to be used for my shampoo and treatment and I LOVE that! I got to test the products right there and then- this is something I’ve never had before.
After a thorough wash, I sat under the dryer for 20 mins, was rinsed then back to the chair for my blow-dry. There was a short wait between the rinse and the start of the blow-dry but it was very short probably about 15 mins or so. ( I have waited longer). Blow-dry was gentle, no excessive heat or pulling. My hair was trimmed- I didn’t need much taken off then I was done
The whole service took about 2 hours and I was happy with the fact that there wasn’t a lot of waiting time in between services.
My only issue is that I was told because it was my first visit to the salon, it is classed as a cut rather than a trim I believe that added about an extra £10 to my total- not sure why because it was a trim ???
Overall verdict
Will I visit again? Yes, my stylists were welcoming and knowledgeable and I didn’t have to wait around too much. I went on a Friday afternoon, the salon was busy, but I found the service to be efficient. I love that I got to test out the recommended products , she used the Loreal Absolute Molecular Repair (black packaging) which I have just purchased. I loved how soft and good my hair felt, even the stylist caught me playing with my hair LOOL.
It seemed to be a good vibe in there. Music and jokes between the stylists made it a nice atmosphere. Drinks and snacks were offered which were a nice touch. I would recommend Elevate and I will go back
This post is very late lmao. I went to Elevate in January , wrote the review but never got round to posting.
Ive already been to the 2nd place on my list twice and I will post the review shortly
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If you’re searching for a cleansing balm that removes makeup effortlessly while supporting your skin barrier, this could be it. Here’s everything you need to know about the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm, including how it works, key ingredients, and my full review.
If you’re still exploring your options, check out my guide to the best cleansers: Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.
What is Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm?
What is Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm?
This is a solid-to-oil cleansing balm designed to melt away makeup, SPF and impurities while nourishing the skin. It’s formulated with barrier-supporting lipids and is designed to work as both a first cleanse in a double cleansing routine or as a standalone cleanser.
Key Benefits
Effectively removes long-wear makeup and SPF
Transforms from balm to oil to milk
Supports the skin barrier
Leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated
No tight or stripped feeling
Suitable for dry and sensitive skin types
Key Ingredients
Fermented Camellia Oil helps the formula penetrate effectively while rinsing cleanly
Ceramides support and strengthen the skin barrier, locking in hydration
Glycolipids are gentle yet effective at breaking down stubborn makeup and sunscreen
How to Use It
Shave a small amount and apply directly to dry skin. Massage to melt down makeup and impurities, add water to emulsify into a milky texture, then rinse or remove with a warm cloth.
Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm Review
Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm dispenser
I have to admit, I didn’t expect Murad to launch a cleansing balm, but I’m really happy they did because this is a genuinely lovely product to use.
First of all, the packaging is very clever. Instead of dipping your fingers into a tub, you sort of shave off a small layer of balm. It actually reminds me a bit of sharpening a pencil, and you can get just the right amount each time. You really don’t need much either, just a small “triangle” worth is plenty. There’s no need to overload it.
Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm texture
I also found that I prefer melting it directly onto my face rather than warming it up in my hands first. It just feels neater and more controlled. The texture starts off slightly firm and a tiny bit lumpy, but it quickly transforms into a beautifully smooth oil that feels really elegant on the skin.
It’s a lovely product to massage in. I like to take my time with it, and it does an excellent job of breaking down makeup and SPF. It removes pretty much everything with ease, including long-wear formulas.
The scent is quite coconutty, but in a natural way, not artificial or overly perfumed. It just smells clean and comforting.
Once you add water, it emulsifies really nicely into a soft milk. I usually remove it with a warm cloth, and my skin is left feeling incredibly soft, smooth, and hydrated. Importantly, it never feels stripped or tight, which is exactly what I want from a cleansing balm.
It’s also very gentle around the eyes. It doesn’t sting and doesn’t leave that annoying cloudy film, which is a big win. I also really like how efficient it feels to use. Not having to dip fingers into a jar makes it feel more hygienic and just a bit more streamlined overall.
Murad says there’s no need to double cleanse with this, and while I would generally still use it as a first cleanse, I have used it on its own and it does remove everything well.
In terms of skincare benefits, I love that it includes ceramides for barrier support and fermented camellia oil, which helps it rinse away cleanly while still feeling nourishing. It’s a great option if your skin is feeling dry or compromised and you want something that cleanses without disrupting your barrier.
Overall, the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm is just a really lovely, well-thought-out product. If you enjoy cleansing balms, this is definitely one to try.
Texture & Formula
Solid balm that softens on contact
Melts into a silky oil
Emulsifies into a milky cleanser
Rinses clean without residue
Who is it Best For?
Dry or dehydrated skin
Anyone looking to support their skin barrier
Fans of cleansing balms
Those who wear long-wear makeup or SPF
Anyone who prefers a more hygienic balm format
Do You Need to Double Cleanse with the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm?
Technically, you don’t have to. This does a thorough job on its own. However, if you enjoy a double cleansing routine, it works perfectly as a first cleanse before going in with a second cleanser.
Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm packaging
Where to Buy
Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm is £35 for 50g and available now via the following links – use code REALLYREESPH for 15% off at Sephora:
To check out all my favourite cleansers, read: Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.
Offers
Sephora UK Discount Code
Exclusive Sephora UK discount code for 15% off
Final Thoughts
This is a really strong addition to the cleansing balm category. It combines effective makeup removal with genuine skincare benefits, and the packaging makes it feel fresh and a bit more elevated than your standard balm.
If your priority is clean, soft, hydrated skin without any stripping, this absolutely delivers.
Cleansing Balm vs Cleansing Oil. What’s the Difference?
This is something I get asked about a lot, and honestly, cleansing balms and cleansing oils essentially do the same job. Both are designed to break down makeup, SPF, excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin.
The main difference is really the texture and experience of using them. A cleansing balm starts as a solid texture that melts down into an oil as you massage it into the skin. That transformation process is part of the appeal. You get a bit more playtime and more of that facial massage element, which can make your cleansing routine feel more luxurious and spa-like.
A cleansing oil skips that first stage because it’s already in liquid form. It’s usually a little quicker and more straightforward to use, especially if you want something fast and efficient at the end of the day.
In terms of performance, neither is necessarily better than the other. It really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer cleansing balms because they feel richer and more nourishing, especially if they have dry skin. Others love cleansing oils because they feel lightweight, quick and easy to rinse away.
Generally speaking:
Cleansing balms can feel a little more comforting and cocooning on dry skin
Cleansing oils are often preferred by those who like a lighter texture
Balms tend to offer a more sensorial experience
Oils can feel slightly quicker and less messy to use
Both work brilliantly for removing makeup and SPF
The important thing is finding a formula that removes everything effectively without leaving your skin feeling tight or stripped afterwards.
Murad’s Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm definitely leans into the more luxurious, treatment-style cleansing experience while still rinsing away really cleanly.
FAQs
Is Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm good for dry skin?
es, it’s excellent for dry skin thanks to its ceramides and lipid-rich formula.
Does it remove waterproof makeup?
Yes, it breaks down long-wear and waterproof formulas very effectively.
Does it sting the eyes?
No, it’s very gentle and doesn’t cause stinging or cloudiness.
Can I use it every day?
Yes, it’s gentle enough for daily use, both morning and evening if desired.
Do I need a second cleanse?
Not necessarily, but you can double cleanse if you prefer.
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Computer and systems engineer Stephanie Raeman navigated military life, early coding challenges, and classroom robotics to build a fulfilling career in STEM education.
