EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser

This is a bottom of the jar review — I used every last bit of this product before giving my honest opinion.

The EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser is a hybrid cleanser advertised as a one-step product that removes makeup and cleanses at the same time. This was my first non-SPF product from EltaMD. It retails for $37 for 3.4 ounces and comes in a plastic tube.

Standard plastic tube — nothing fancy, but functional.

The product itself is a thick, clear gel that foams a little bit — not very much. Here's what I found:

• Decent at removing makeup — but not quite enough on its own
• Not a true one-stop-shop — I still needed a dedicated makeup remover (balm or oil-based cleanser) before using it
• Leaves a film — if you don't rinse it really, really well, it leaves a film on the skin
• Requires thorough rinsing — you have to work at getting it all off

The biggest problem: it's marketed as a one-step double cleanser replacement, but it didn't deliver on that promise for me. I still had to use a separate makeup remover first. And even then, the film it leaves if you don't wash it off thoroughly is a drawback.

If you're looking for a single-step cleanser that also removes makeup, this probably isn't it — you'll likely still need a separate makeup remover. If you want a gentle daily cleanser and don't wear much makeup, it might work better for you.

I give the EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser a 6 out of 10. It's okay, but not great. Not my favorite thing, and I probably won't repurchase. If you love EltaMD's SPF products (like I do), don't assume this cleanser will be a home run — it wasn't for me.