Cold creams are making a comeback: What are they and how do you use them?

Everything you need to know about the old-school classic

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A product that most of us will associate with the well-dressed vanity tables of our mothers and grandmothers, cold creams have been used to cleanse and moisturise the skin for many decades.

However, thanks to the introduction of lavish ingredients and super-scientific skincare, over the years they have fallen out of favour – until now.

In 2018, cold creams are officially back on our beauty radar thanks to a number of big brands launching their very own modern day versions.

So, what exactly are they and should you be using one?

The OG product, Pond’s Extract, was created by American scientist Theron T Pond in 1846 and was essentially a witchhazel blend to treat cuts and bruises.

However, in the early 20th century, the brand adapted to fit into the burgeoning beauty world, replacing its healing blend with two new makeup products, one of which became known as Cold Cream.

Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser, £3.25, Boots

The product quickly became a firm favourite among those in the know and still is to this day. In fact, in 2010 sales of Pond’s Cold Cream shot up by 120 per cent after Australian singer Kylie Minogue described it as “one of her favourite skincare products”.

Fast forward to present day and the core ingredients and purpose of cold cream remain very much the same – using simple emulsions of high concentrations of mineral oil and waxes, like beeswax, in water to remove makeup and protect your skin against moisture loss.

Kate Somerville, Cold Cream, £41, Cult Beauty

Take Kate Somerville’s version of the old-school classic for instance – a lusciously whipped cleansing cream that feels cool when you apply it, it makes for the perfect first cleanse, seamlessly removing even the most stubborn mascara without irritation. Of course, this contemporary kind also comes with the added benefit of a sublime scent in the form of jasmine, rose and daisy.

Ideal for dry or sensitive skin, the bathroom cabinet stalwart makes for a worthy addition to your modern day routine because, not only are they relatively affordable and incredibly gentle, they also work double-time to moisturise even the dreariest of complexions.

Ultrabland, £8.25, Lush

Simply invest in your cold cream of choice, slather onto your skin – damp or dry – and gently wipe off with a wet washcloth.