I tried the Emma Lewisham Illuminating Exfoliant and I have some serious thoughts

I’m just a girl, standing (in the shower), in front of her face scrub, confessing my love for it.

As crazy as I’ve just made myself out to be, I promise my recommendation isn’t as nuts. In fact, it’s one you need to take note of because it really is that good. 

So here’s my love letter to Emma Lewisham’s Illuminating Exfoliant.

You may have seen this purple and pink skin care brand posted across Instagram, and if you’re like me, it caught your eye.

From the aesthetically pleasing packaging, to its simplified product range and positive sustainability efforts, I was intrigued by Emma Lewisham from the get-go.

I first tried the Skin Reset Pigmentation Serum, and it was nice. But it wasn’t until the launch of the Illuminating Exfoliant last October that this brand had my heart.

The technical stuff

The unique chemical and physical hybrid is 100 per cent natural and is formulated with 21 high-performing ingredients to deeply detoxify and hydrate the skin.

A few of the standout ingredients include saccharide isomerate, which has a smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid – AKA it can penetrate the skin deeper. It also helps skin to create its own internal water source to continually hydrate itself.

Lactic acid dissolves the glue that cements dead skin cells together, revealing a smoother, brighter skin texture and delivers optimum cell turnover.

And finally, jojoba wax beads, which makes up the physical exfoliant portion of the scrub. Not only are they biodegradable – so no need to worry about those going down the drain – the natural emollient properties help to maintain the skin’s natural pH balance, gently buffing the skin until smooth.

The results

The Illuminating Exfoliant was released in conjunction with the Illuminating Oil Cleanser, with the idea being that you cleanse daily with the oil and then use the exfoliator a few times a week as a treatment.

I have to admit I was hesitant at first, because I normally opt for liquid exfoliants vs physical. But it ended up being the product’s whipped texture that made me fall in love with it. 

Instructions will tell you to apply to the face and neck, and leave on for 20 seconds. And it’s how my skin is left feeling once rinsed off that I've become highly addicted to. 

Immediately after use my skin is as soft as a baby’s bottom – in the best possible way. Even when I'm experiencing congestion, my skin’s texture feels smoother and less coarse (thanks to those jojoba wax beads).

Unlike some other physical scrubs, it doesn't irritate my breakouts further. In fact, I personally find it really helps to clear up any blemishes I may be experiencing, and if I skip too many days without use, my skin starts to hate me for it.

Sustainability and recycling

When it comes to my consumption of beauty products and the ingredients used to formulate them, I've been trying my best to look for brands that are making a more positive impact on the planet.

That's why Emma Lewisham's vision for a future where companies take ownership for what happens to their packaging at the end of its life, resonated with me.

To do their part in that goal, Emma Lewisham products have been circular designed, with the intention of being refillable, recyclable or compostable. 

This means when I finish my Illuminating Exfoliant, or any other product from the line-up, I have the option to participate in the brand's Beauty Circle Refill Programme. 

How does it work? Keep your original bottle, and simply purchase a refill pouch, pour the contents of this into the empty bottle to refill and reuse. You can then return the refill pouch to the brand for recycling.

Good skin and saving the planet? It’s a yes from me.

The final verdict

If I’m being honest, it’s been a while since I’ve used a skin care product all the way up. As a beauty editor, and skin care junkie, I’m lucky enough to try a lot of new offerings, so my routine is always in rotation. 

But I can tell you, as this bad boy is approaching the end, it is currently sitting upside down in my shower because I’m going to use every. last. drop. And that says it all now, doesn’t it?

Main image credit: Supplied

If you love a good exfoliator, you need to know about LHAs – skin care's latest acid.