Olivia Adams - Senior Editor
The story of the cult British brand and what Pro-Collagen actually means. Plus, which balm is best for you.
ELEMIS has done what all beauty brands dream of – created a skincare staple which has been adored by customers ever since. But before we get into the award-winning Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, do you know the history of the brand? It was founded in London back in 1989 by entrepreneur Linda Steiner, whose mission was to create a skincare range as ‘close to nature’ as possible. She was joined by the co-founding trio Sean Harrington, Oriele Frank and Noella Gabriel – who remains actively involved in the brand today.
For more than three decades ELEMIS has been at the forefront of skincare expertise, uniting the best of science, nature and skin wisdom, combined with hands-on experience treating millions of clients across the globe in their spas. The brand also achieved B Corp certification in 2023. It was the launch of their world-renowned Pro-Collagen Marine Cream in 2003 and Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm in 2013 that truly shaped where the brand is today. Both formulas remain bestsellers at John Lewis and deliver powerful, visible results and healthy-looking skin.
Here, we take a deep dive into the true meaning of Pro-Collagen and reveal which Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is right for your skin. With over 5,561 5* reviews on our site, it’s fair to say this makeup removing and skin-nourishing balm has impacted the beauty industry like no other. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
What does Pro-Collagen mean?
As a result of ageing and environmental factors the collagen production in your skin declines over time. ELEMIS' Pro-Collagen products are proven to improve the visible signs of collagen degradation in the skin, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and loss of firmness and elasticity. Combining powerful marine ingredients with cutting-edge science, Pro-Collagen promotes firmer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.
Who should use ELEMIS Pro-Collagen?
The much-celebrated Pro-Collagen collection is designed for anyone concerned about the visible signs of collagen decline in skin. It is specially formulated to support the health of your skin and to help reveal a firmer, plumper appearance.
Which Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm works best for your skin?
Classic: The original ‘spa like’ experience, thanks to the scent of lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus. The award-winning icon deeply cleanses, nourishes and hydrates for soft, glowing skin.
Skin type: all
Black Cherry: The new, decadent balm smells like sweet black cherry and subtle almonds. Deeply hydrating and nourishing, it effortlessly melts away makeup and impurities, promoting soft skin that feels cared-for.
Skin type: all
Naked: Exactly the same formula as the original balm, minus any essential oils or scent. This balm delivers the same indulgent spa-like experience as the original, minus the fragrance.
Skin type: sensitive
Rose: The same as the original balm but with additional English rose extracts which makes applying it even more enjoyable and soothing to the senses. Calming and hydrating, if you like a floral scent, this is the balm for you. Petal-soft skin, incoming.
Skin type: sensitive
Green Fig: Fresh and fruity, it gives the same spa like experience as the original, but it’s infused with fig extracts for an enhanced and uplifting aromatic experience. It refreshes and revitalises, perfect for an energising cleanse.
Skin type: all
New: ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse
Exclusive to John Lewis, the new cream-to-silky mousse cleanser is packed with hydration-boosting ingredients, and is suitable for all skin types. Skin is genuinely left hydrated, and not dry or stripped. Use on its own or partner with the brand’s award-winning Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm for the ultimate double cleanse.
