Shu Uemura's legendary Ultime8 face cleanser, widely regarded as one of the most beloved cleansers among beauty experts, has returned to the UK after being withdrawn in 2017. The 60-year-old formula remains the bestselling cleanser in Asia, praised for its ability to remove heavy makeup and grime while maintaining skin moisture balance.
According to beauty journalist Sali Hughes, the thick cleansing oil is gentle yet effective, capable of removing sunscreen and heavy makeup in a single step. Its creator, Hollywood makeup artist Shu Uemura, originally used a home-blended version to remove Shirley MacLaine's thick greasepaint on the set of the 1962 film My Geisha.
For now, UK shoppers can purchase Ultime8 on Amazon, with prices starting from £17 for 50ml. Hughes notes that the product lasts for months, even with nightly use.
For those seeking alternatives, Hughes recommends Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil (£35 for 145ml) and NIOD's Hydro-Ester Cleansing System (£42). More affordable options include Simple Cleansing Oil (£6.99 for 125ml) and Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil (£20 for 200ml), which suits all skin types.
