Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser: A Month of Use in November

November in the UK brings dreary weather, biting winds, and the constant cycle of central heating—all of which can wreak havoc on skin. To combat these seasonal skincare challenges, I put the Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser from ShowMe MakeUp to the test throughout the entire month. With its promise to cleanse and purify without stripping the skin, I was eager to see how it would perform over time in my daily routine.

Here’s my detailed journey, from first impressions to the gradual effects I noticed after consistent use.

First Impressions

The Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser comes in an elegant blue tube that looks chic on any bathroom counter. Its dual-purpose formula—acting as both a daily cleanser and a purifying mask—caught my attention immediately. As someone who loves multi-functional skincare, this seemed like an ideal product for the colder months.

The texture was rich and creamy, transforming into a velvety foam when mixed with water. The scent was light and fresh, adding a luxurious touch to my daily cleansing ritual. After my first use, my skin felt incredibly clean, soft, and smooth, without that dreaded post-cleanse tightness.

The First Two Weeks: Adjusting to the Routine

For the first couple of weeks, I used the cleanser twice daily, as part of my morning and evening routines.

Morning: In the mornings, the foam was refreshing and gentle, effectively removing any overnight buildup and prepping my skin for makeup. I found it particularly useful during busy workdays when I wanted my skin to feel balanced but not stripped.
Evening: At night, the cleanser did a good job of removing light makeup and daily grime. However, for heavier makeup or waterproof products, I had to pair it with a separate makeup remover. After rinsing, my skin felt soft and hydrated, never dry or tight.

I also tried using it as a purifying mask once a week. Applying a thin layer and leaving it on for five minutes gave my skin a brighter, refreshed appearance. It didn’t irritate or cause redness, which was a relief for my sensitive areas.

Positives:

Gentle enough for twice-daily use.
Leaves skin feeling clean without over-drying.
Doubles as a quick, effective mask for a boost of freshness.

Negatives:

Requires a separate makeup remover for heavy products.
The purifying mask effect is subtle and might not be enough for congested skin.

The Full Month: Noticeable Results

By the third and fourth weeks of use, I began noticing more significant changes in my skin’s texture and overall appearance.

Smoother Skin: My skin felt consistently soft and smooth, with fewer dry patches even in the colder weather. The cleanser’s creamy foam seemed to maintain my skin’s natural moisture balance, which is often difficult in November’s harsh climate.
Less Congestion: While the cleanser isn’t specifically marketed for clearing pores, I noticed fewer small blemishes on my T-zone. Using it as a mask once a week seemed to help keep congestion at bay.
Improved Radiance: My skin looked brighter and more even-toned, especially after continued use as a mask. It became a reliable step in my routine, giving me a healthy, fresh-faced glow even on dull, rainy mornings.

Positives:

Skin felt softer and smoother over time.
Noticeable reduction in small blemishes and dry patches.
Maintained hydration even with daily use in winter.

Negatives:

While effective, the mask doesn’t deeply target pores or stubborn impurities.
May not suffice for those with very oily or acne-prone skin as a sole cleanser.

Special Occasion: Hosting Friends

Midway through November, I hosted a dinner party for friends. After a long day of cooking and setting up, my skin needed a pick-me-up. I used the cleanser as a quick purifying mask while I prepared, and it left my skin feeling refreshed and ready for makeup application. My foundation went on smoothly, thanks to the clean, hydrated base this cleanser provided.

Final Thoughts

After using the Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser for a full month, I’m thoroughly impressed with its ability to gently cleanse and maintain my skin’s moisture balance, even during one of the harshest months of the year. Its luxurious texture and subtle scent elevate a daily routine into a calming ritual. While it may not be the solution for heavy-duty makeup removal or deeply clogged pores, it’s an excellent everyday cleanser for maintaining smooth, radiant skin.

Overall Positives:

Gentle yet effective daily cleansing.
Hydrates and softens skin, even in cold weather.
Doubles as a refreshing, mild purifying mask.
Perfect for normal to dry or combination skin.

Overall Negatives:

Requires a separate remover for heavy or waterproof makeup.
The mask’s purifying effect is mild and might not suit very oily skin.

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience over a month of daily use. Skincare is highly individual, and results may vary depending on skin type and environmental factors. If you’re looking for a gentle, multi-action cleanser for day-to-day use, this product is definitely worth trying.