If you’ve got your Skincare 101 routine down, you may be looking for ways to level up. My first recommendation is to begin double cleansing. When it comes to first cleanses, there truly is no match for the Deviant Skincare Cleansing Concentrate. Read on to discover why I’ve gone through four jars of this product & why I’ll never be without a backup!
But first, an intro to double cleansing.
Why do you need two cleansers? Won’t one get the job done?
It might. If you’re only wearing SPF or you use very light makeup, one solid cleanser could suffice. However, in my personal (and non-professional opinion), your skin will get a more effective cleanse if you use two different cleansers.
A first cleanse, like the Deviant Skincare Cleansing Concentrate, breaks down any makeup, remove dirt and excess oils from the day and clean your skin.
The second cleanser is more specific to your skin type or areas of concern, and ensures any remnants left over from the first cleanse are washed away. Utilizing a two-step cleanse ensures that your treatments and creams will have the highest chance to be effective. It also helps with acne prone skin, as there will be no dirt/product residue left on the skin after a proper double cleanse.
Background on Deviant Skincare
Ok, so now we know why we need to double cleanse. And before I get into why the Deviant Skincare Cleansing Concentrate is so wonderful, I want to talk a little bit about the brand itself.
Deviant was founded by Natalie Smyth in the U.K., and currently has just two employees: her and her partner. The definition of a small business, they set out to “create products unbound by gender, age or time; effective formulas that respect the integrity of skin and provide real results.” Their skincare is designed with the goal of achieving “harmony of purpose and formula: meaningful products, with potent, efficacious ingredients that truly benefit skin.”
Natalie herself offers I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with. On her instagram, @natalieasmyth , she regularly checks in with customers and shares behind-the-scenes information about her business. She also discusses which products are in development and asks for feedback. Her transparency is one of the many reasons I love Deviant!
The Cleansing Concentrate: The Product that Started it All

Natalie’s first product was the inimitable Cleansing Concentrate. It is still a cult-favorite for fans of the brand, and regularly sells out.
A “decadent balm-to-milk cleanser that effortlessly removes makeup and daily impurities,” the Cleansing Concentrate is without a doubt the most luxurious first cleanse I have had the pleasure of using. Ingredients like Hemp and Camellia Seed soften congestion and environmental debris, while a proprietary blend of Sacha Inchi, Blueberry and Borage soothe stressed out complexions.
This first cleanse is safe for all skin types, from dry to normal to oily and acne prone. It is gentle and nourishing, yet leaves your skin clean and prepared for the rest of your routine.
My Review of the Deviant Skincare Cleansing Concentrate
If it isn’t clear by now, I am obsessed with the cleansing concentrate. It is the most enjoyable cleanser I have ever used.
The beautiful smooth balm texture emulsifies into a light, soothing milk that truly gives you a cleansing experience. There is an earthy scent that comes from the ingredients (not added fragrance) that honestly feels very grounding. It’s my favorite way to start my evening routine because I can take a bit of time with it and really work the balm into my skin. When I’m so used to rushing through the parts of my day, this helps me to slow down.
I use this every night, whether I’ve worn makeup or not. Especially on nights I wear foundation, this helps my face rinse completely clean! It also works well on eye makeup (although it can sometimes give me a little bit of blurry vision).
The cleansing concentrate has been perfect for my particular skin concerns (combination/acne prone), but it also works well on all skin types. Whether you’re dry, normal or oily/acne-prone, the cleansing concentrate will make your skin feel incredible.
Final Thoughts
Long story short? If you have skin, you need the cleansing concentrate. It is not only luxurious but also effective. It works so well for removing my makeup and spf, and my skin truly loves it. I cannot recommend it enough. If you want to try it as well, or any of their other products, I have a referral link that gets you 10% off!
Let me know if you’ve tried this cleansing balm in the comments! If you haven’t, what’s your go-to first cleanse?
This is such a gorgeous cleansing balm. From the formulation down to the packaging, I love it all. Definitely one of my favorites! I have a new jar but am waiting to open it until I finish a few others. I’m SO excited for the LE blue tansy version (Enzymatic Cleansing Oil) that’s in the works!
Yes, can’t wait for the limited edition!! Blue tansy is one of my favorites 🙂