I used philosophy skin care products a a few years ago and had repurchased a couple of times. At some point I moved on to something else but haven't settled with another brand. Since my skin took a turn for the worse this year I tried to work out what I did at a time when my skin was as close to perfect as perhaps it ever would be. I felt compelled to try Philosophy again. Having used the range consistently for the past two months, here is my review. I hope it's useful to you!

Purity Made Simple Cleanser £17.50 // 236.6ml

This cleanser is the gem in the crown of the Philosophy range. I love it! It makes my skin feel a lot cleaner than other cleansers - pores are visibly clearer and blackheads barely in existence. I breakout infrequently when I use this and find I have less need for other products (like exfoliators and toners).

It has an unusual consistency and doesn't lather into foam. A little goes a long way so I find that although it's pricey the bottle does last quite a long time - my current bottle is two-thirds full and I've had it for around 2.5 months.

It's the only cleanser I've ever found to easily and quickly remove waterproof mascara without the need for a separate eye makeup remover (and without stinging the eyes at all). This is probably it's unique selling point and why it has such a cult following. anything to cut down time, right girls?!

Will I repurchase? Yes, definitely. BUT - having recently undergone consultations at dermatology practices I'm now intrigued by glycolic cleansers like Jan Marini and MD Forte.

Hope in a Jar Moisturiser £33.50 // 56.7g

This has such a strange consistency - thick and almost gloopy. It doesn't soak into the skin as easily as others and this might be what puts some people off. I don't see this as a negative - all it means is that you have to massage the product in which is good for your skin and what we should do with all moisturisers anyway. I find this quite a heavy cream so use it at night, everywhere except my slightly oily t-zone!

I get a great result using this cream. Lines are diminished. Skin looks vibrant and glowing. I have a rosy glow! I look healthy. I believe this product is the reason I have more even skin tone and less redness around my nose. The best face cream I've ever used and I think it's highly appropriate for my age group and older who need a little extra care.