Image via Walgreens

I tend to judge a line overall on the strength of its cleanser and, so far, it's a rule of thumb that has served me well. After all, if you can't get something as basic as the cleanser right, why should I trust you with my zit zapping or to combat the immortal foe (The Crevice) that lives in the middle of my forehead? I had such amazing results with Walgreen's Yes To Carrots that I couldn't resist sampling some of their European Beauty Collection, specifically Ocean Biotechnologie's Spa Aquatique Regenerating Cleansing Milk.

I hate to be a Debbie Downer, but I was seriously not impressed. The cleansing was gentle enough, but I felt a slight film on the high points of my cheeks, and also, it really didn't touch the industrial sebum that lurks in the corners by my nose. I'm kind of a sucker for an awesome package and this cleanser had the aura of Dollar Store...plus the top didn't want to stay open. I notice, however, on the main page, they have a more reasonable pump situation shown--maybe Walgreens still has the old design. Looking at the ingredients, the second one is cetearyl alcohol, a waxy substance used as an emulsifier, and that might have been responsible for the gunky feeling left on my face.  At 20 bones for 8.5 ounces, it's not exactly a beauty bargain. After all, you can get 8 ounces of Philosophy's Purity  for exactly the same price.

It may have a fancy French name but don't be fooled! Leave this one on the shelves, fellow Fiends, and spend your bucks on something a little more bankable.