If you haven’t already heard of Deviant Skincare, you’ll definitely hear about it soon. This U.K.-based luxury skincare line is making waves and holding its own against huge established brands, despite having just two employees: founder Natalie Symth and her partner Collin. During their recent sale, they sold out of EVERY PRODUCT in four hours! And their success is only just beginning.
Deviant is all about making skincare for everyone. They want to move away from “gender-specific, age-specific, and trend-driven product development and marketing.” Their beautiful, effective formulas can work for all skin types. In their own words, they make every product with the goal of “respecting the integrity of skin and providing real results.”
If you want to try out this incredible brand, you can shop through my referral link – it gets you 10% off and I earn 100 points in their referral program.
How Deviant Skincare Got Started
Deviant wasn’t always Deviant. Originally, the brand was called Alkimi Skincare, and it sold a facial oil as well as an early version of the now-beloved cleansing concentrate.
In late 2018, the brand became Deviant Skincare and a star was born. The line began with the Cleansing Concentrate, a product that has become a cult favorite. It later expanded to include an exfoliating liquid, a facial oil, and most recently an enzymatic cleansing oil.
A little more on the founder, Natalie Smyth
Before getting into the products, I wanted to talk a little more about the woman behind the brand. For anyone who’s been involved in the skincare community for a few years, Natalie is a familiar face. She has been reviewing products and sharing in-depth information on ingredients and skincare formulations on Instagram since 2017. If you scroll through her page, you can see she’s tried almost every big-name product out there – and has been doing it for longer than many of us.
Taking all of this accumulated knowledge and combining it with her passion for the nitty gritty of skincare, Natalie created a brand that stands out in a sea of skincare companies.
Now that I’ve established just how incredible Deviant and its founder, Natalie, are, let’s get into the products.
The Holy Grail of Deviant Skincare: The Cleansing Concentrate
Key Product Info
Size: 50ml, 100ml or 200ml
Price: $38.41 USD, $59.59 USD and $91.38 USD respectively
This beautiful product was Deviant Skincare’s first release. I reviewed it previously here, but I’ll take any opportunity to gush over this product.
A decadent balm to milk cleanser, this first cleanse effortlessly removes makeup and daily impurities without stripping the skin of its protective moisturizing factors. Notable ingredients include Hemp oil, Camellia Seed oil, Blueberry seed oil, Borage seed oil and Vitamin E. These skin-loving ingredients make this balm incredibly nourishing, without being comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types, I can’t think of anyone who won’t love this.
In addition to the incredible formulation, what really makes this balm stand out is the sensorial experience that accompanies it. It is undoubtedly effective – it easily removes all my face makeup and sunscreen and leaves my skin totally clean – but so are many other products. The Cleansing Concentrate goes beyond merely checking the “clean” box and elevates cleansing into a luxurious ritual. I love taking the time to really massage this in in the evening. The woody, earthy scent is the cherry on top.
The experience extends beyond the balm itself and into the packaging. The cleansing concentrate is housed in a black glass jar with a hand made seal on top. It feels luxurious and like it is made with the utmost care.
If I sound like I’m obsessed, it’s because I am. I have two backups on hand at all times because I can’t bear to be without it. It is my absolute favorite cleansing balm and number one first cleanse.
Enzymatic Cleansing Oil
Key Product Info
Size: 100ml
Price: $38.41 USD
One of the best parts of Deviant Skincare is how receptive Natalie is to customer feedback. The Cleansing Concentrate is an incredible product, but it is undoubtedly pricey. So, Natalie set out to offer an alternative cleanser that would be slightly less expensive – but still as enjoyable to use.
The ECO, as it is nicknamed, is a decadent oil to milk cleanser that effortlessly removes makeup and daily impurities, without stripping the skin of its protective moisturizing factors. (Sound familiar? It’s the same goal as the Cleansing Concentrate). It contains camellia seed oil, borage seed oil, papaya and pineapple enzymes, and perilla.
Like the cleansing concentrate, this is suitable for all skin types. It is gentle and soothing, yet effective at removing makeup and dirt. The only downside to this product is the quantity I have to use to get the desired amount of “slip” to my cleanse – about 9-10 pumps.
Ultimately, it comes down to preference. I prefer the texture of a balm cleanser, but I know many people who would choose an oil. If you would rather use an oil cleanser, this is an amazing option.
Gentle Resurfacing Liquid
Key Product Info
Size: 100ml
Price: $45.03 USD
If you’re as much of a skincare fanatic as I am, you know acids are amazing for treating acne, texture, and a number of other skin problems. But if you’re like me and have sensitive skin, it can be difficult to find a suitable acid product to use. Enter the Gentle Resurfacing Liquid.
Containing a unique cocktail of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Mandelic, Lactic, Glycolic, Malic and Citric), BHA (Salicyclic Acids) and PHA (Gluconolactone), this powerhouse product gently dissolves the bonds binding dull, dead cells to skin’s surface. You would think with all those acids, this product would feel strong. When I used it, I didn’t even feel a tingle.
However, it’s gentleness does not indicate ineffectiveness. With a few week’s use, I’ve seen an improvement in my skin’s texture, oiliness, and active breakouts. By combining acids with skin-soothing ingredients such as green and white tea, mushroom, gotu kola (centella asiatica), and ginkgo biloba, Natalie has created a unique product. Strong yet suitable for sensitive skin, this is an acid toner everyone can feel comfortable reaching for.
Facial Oil
Key Product Info
Size: 30ml
Price: $46.35 USD
You wouldn’t think someone who has oily, acne-prone skin like mine would love facial oils. But I can’t live without them! I love how they seal in moisture and prevent dry spots – particularly around on my nose. I am always on the hunt for nourishing, yet lightweight oils that don’t clog my pores.
This beautiful facial oil from Deviant checks all the boxes. It is nutrient dense, formulated with Tamanu, Rosehip, Raspberry, Cranberry and Blueberry oils, yet doesn’t contain any ingredients that could cause congestion. Even better, it avoids essential oils completely, making it perfect for sensitive skin. “For balance and vitality,” this oil both strengthens and calms the skin.
Like all Deviant products, using this is an exercise in luxury. It feels bougie from the second the oil touches the palm of your hand. It’s dense, but not heavy – my skin drinks it up almost immediately. About half a dropper full is enough to apply over my moisturizer in the evenings. I have noticed a more even glow to my skin, and my face looks more supple and hydrated. My sensitive, acne prone skin has found an oil that works incredibly well – a rare feat!
Final Thoughts on Deviant Skincare
Deviant Skincare is truly amazing. A small U.K. business, it is as luxurious as some big-name brands; and in many regards, more effective, with better customer service, and more attention to the details that matter. I am thoroughly impressed with every product I have tried and cannot wait to see what they come up with next! And we won’t have to wait long – Natalie has already hinted that Deviant is hoping to release four new products in 2021. As these products are launched, I’ll continue to update this post with reviews.
If I’ve sold you on these products, be sure to use my referral link to make your purchase – it gets you 10% off and I earn 100 points in their referral program.
This was such an informative and helpful review! Loved the brand backstory too. I haven’t tried anything from the brand yet so your thoughts were extra appreciated. Glad to hear the resurfacing liquid worked well with your sensitive skin!
Thank you so much for reading Nicole! Honestly everything from them is worth checking out – especially the CC and the GRL! But I can’t pick a favorite haha, it’s all too good
Thanks for this in depth review! This is my first exposure to this brand. I’m excited to know more!
Yay! Thank you for reading 🙂
I’ve heard only great things about Deviant Skincare especially the cleansing concentrate. After reading your review I would love to try the cleanser and facial oil. I have acne prone skin and currently dealing with maskne and hormonal breakouts… double whammy ? Glad to hear you the facial oil didn’t break you out. I’m curious what the oil smells like since it has tamanu in it. It took me a bit time to adjust to the smell when I started using a serum that contain tamanu. I still love the ingredient!
I honestly don’t notice a strong scent to the oil! I do have a bad nose for smells though so that’s probably not helpful. It maybe smells a bit earthy?
Earthy is still ok for me ???
I want to try the cleansing concentrate so bad ?
I have heard so many amazing things about this product! Thank you for the review – I am definitely sold!
love this ??
I have heard great things about this brand. After l read your review l would love to try the cleansing balm.
I missed out on the sale but will be picking up the CC at some point as I’ve heard nothing but great things!
http://www.cashmeremouse.com
Looking forward to trying the cleansing concentrate in the future- so many great reviews!
I’ve been so intrigued by Deviant skincare.. the cleansing concentrate is definitely my next cleanser ♥️♥️♥️♥️
I heard of their sell out in four hours and knew I definitely wanted to try them out especially their cleaning concentrate. Love your review very detailed as usual.??
Such a thorough review on these amazing products from Deviant, love it! I first heard of this brand from @whatsonviskin page, reviewed the Deviant luxurious cleansing balm. I’ve checked the full ingredients used for the cleansing balm and their other products and I got to say, they are well-formulated and they are the best ingredients lists I ever seen. Amazing, amazing, amazing formulation. The price is highly steep, especially for a student like me but this doesn’t make me feel down as it motivates me to study hard and try my best to get a nice job soon so that I could purchase Deviant skincare lines. One day, I definitely gonna get my hand on these luxuries, especially their cleansing balm!!!
I have always wanted to try deviant’s products ? I have heard many great reviews and so interested in their cleansing concentrate and gentle resurfacing liquid the most. However, now seeing the facial oil and enzymatic cleansing oil got me all curious bout it too.
I remember wanting to try this brand a while back, but shipping was expensive because they ship from the UK. I know they’re a small brand, but I’m hoping at some point in the future they’ll start selling their products at a retailer here in the US. I just can’t afford $20 in shipping for one cleansing balm
It’s definitely on the pricier side! I have heard rumors they are planning to expand to have a shipping base in the U.S. to help alleviate some of those costs in the near future…
Thank you for a very informative review. Deviant skincare is on my wishlist for quite some time especially the Cleansing Concentrate. Great read!!!
Thank you! So glad this review was helpful.
Looking dope! I’m especially interested in the resurfacing liquid
What an amazing and helpful review!!!
I’ve been following Natalie and the brand for quite some time now and have only heard wonders about the GRL and their cleansing balm. Hopefully I get to try them soon ♥️ So happy that youre loving them Amber
Thank you for this review !!! I really want to try deviant skincare asap!
Ahhh such a good review and a fabulous brand! I love the cleansing concentrate (I purchased the tiny one and loved it so much). Can’t wait to try more!!!
This is a great in depth review Amber!? I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about this brand it’s clear their products are well formulated and thought out. I missed the sale but the cleansing concentrate and resurfacing liquid are on my list for sure!
This brand sounds amazing. Thanks for the thorough review. The cleansing balm and the gentle resurfacing liquid are the two I’m most eager to try. I had no idea this brand was based in the UK, as well as all the info about the founder, Natalie. I’ve been seeing this brand all over Instagram so I’m happy to now be informed all about it.
This is such an informative review girl!!! After my whole debacle with the glow recipe balm, I think I just have to bite the bullet and order the CC despite it being quite pricey. It seems to be the best out there for sensitive skin!! Thank you for your honest and helpful review ❤️
I hope you do get it! I think you would love it – it’s been a dream for my sensitive skin 🙂
I tried a teeny sample of their cleansing balm and their resurfacing toner and I LOVED it. So really intrigued about the cleansing oil too, to be honest the whole review just makes me realise how excellent and unique deviant skin are. Fantastic in depth review – much appreciated
Deviant is a brand Ive been eyeing up for a while, sound so amazing and that packaging is LUX!
so intrigued to try this! thanks for hosting a giveaway
Deviant Skincare sounds wonderful and I have been eyeing it since it popped up in both my feeds (@whyismyfavoriteword and @2morrowis42ndchances). I wish it were a bit more accessible and a little less pricey for Canada, especially for a blind buy, but I could get over that for the sale (lol though no chance it all sold out fast) if in the times we were in shipping weren’t so chancy and problematic. This is a brand that is firmly on my wishlist and that somehow, someday I will try.
I’ve heard amazing things about this brand!! I def want to check them out!
I knew I wanted to try the cleansing concentrate and thon gentle resurfacing liquid but now I may have to add the facial oil to that list! The CC just looks so dreamy! Thank you for a wonderfully informative review!
Great review! Thank you!
omg! I’ve heard so much about this brand!!
Such a lovely review! I came across this brand right before they did their summer sale and considered buying the cleansing balm but everything was gone in the blink of an eye!!
This sounds so interesting! It’s definitely on my wishlist now! I’m from instagram and my username is @miram.albotaif ?
Very good review thank you for sharing! Would love to try these products too! My username @noturmamapb
What a great review! I’ve only tried the gentle resurfacing liquid but it’s quickly become my favourite and now I’m so keen to try the other products especially the balm, it looks soooo dreamy!!
@notanakt