Cleansing balms have become a cult favorite in the skincare world, and for good reason. Beauty influencers swear on their balms, while more and more brands have incorporated cleansing balms in their product line. These luxurious, oil-based cleansers effectively melt away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping the skin's natural oils. While they gain popularity, it’s not always on how to use them properly and effectively. 

Why choose a cleansing balm?

If you are satisfied with your cleansing routine, then you probably won’t think that it’s something worth your time —and money. However, cleansing balms can be a game changer in your beauty routine. 

They offer a gentle yet thorough cleanse due to their oil-based formula, which is particularly effective at dissolving oil-based impurities like makeup, sebum, and sunscreen, which can be tricky to remove with traditional cleansers. For this reason, they are your ideal ally for removing stubborn waterproof mascara and long-wearing foundation. Because they don't strip the skin, they help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing dryness and tightness. This can lead to healthier, more balanced skin over time; especially during winter, when our skin is more sensitive and susceptible to dryness.

Step-by-step guide to using a cleansing balm

If you feel like you don’t know exactly how to use a cleansing balm, we break down for you the process step-by-step so that you benefit the most from your balm.

Dry Hands and Dry Face: Water will emulsify the balm prematurely, preventing it from effectively breaking down makeup and impurities, so you want to make sure that your hands and face are completely dry before you begin.

Scoop and Apply: Use the spatula provided (or clean, dry fingers) to scoop out a small amount of balm. Start with a dime-sized amount and adjust as needed. Gently massage the balm onto your dry face using circular motions. Focus on areas with heavy makeup, like your eyes and lips.  

Massage and Emulsify: Continue massaging for about a minute. You'll notice the balm transforming into a silky oil as it melts into your skin. This process helps to dissolve makeup and loosen residue.  

Add Water: Now, wet your fingertips with a small amount of lukewarm water. Continue massaging your face. The oil will emulsify, turning into a milky consistency. This is the crucial step where the oil binds with the water, allowing it to be rinsed away.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water until all traces of the balm are gone. Avoid using hot water, as it can be drying. Also, avoid taking the balm off with a towel because it can irritate the skin.

Follow-Up (Optional): While the cleansing balm is sufficient, you can follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser for a double cleanse, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. This second cleanse helps to remove any remaining residue and ensures your skin is thoroughly clean.

Pat Dry and Continue Your Routine: Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Follow up with your regular skincare routine, and don’t forget your moisturizer.

Who can benefit from a cleansing balm?

Cleansing balms are generally suitable for most skin types, including:

Dry and dehydrated skin: The oil-based formula helps to replenish moisture and prevent dryness.  

Sensitive skin: The gentle cleansing action is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.  

Oily and combination skin: While it might seem counterintuitive to use oil on oily skin, cleansing balms can actually help to balance oil production by effectively removing excess sebum without stripping the skin.  

Mature skin: Helps to maintain skin's elasticity and prevent dryness, which is common in mature skin.  

Are cleansing balms right for everyone?

While generally well-tolerated, there are a few situations where cleansing balms might not be the best choice. For instance, it’s better to consult with your dermatologist in case you have specific oil allergies, for instance, in coconut oil. Coconut oil is a very common ingredient in cleansing balms, so it’s better to check the ingredients before using them. Also, keep in mind that cleansing balms leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated, not squeaky clean. If you prefer that feeling, you might find them too moisturizing. However, remember that "squeaky clean" doesn't necessarily equate to healthy skin.

How to choose the right cleansing balm?

With so many cleansing balms on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. It’s better to look for fragrance-free balms that contain nourishing oils and check if they suit your skin type. The most favorite and skin-friendly cleansing balms that our editors have tested and approved are:

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

It’s an all-in-one balm that is clinically proven to remove over 99% of SPF, long-wear foundation, and waterproof mascara while improving texture and providing hydration after one use. It’s also made with natural ingredients, and it’s cruelty-free. It’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. It has an intense but pleasant odor.

CLINIQUE Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover

This is the reason why I started using cleansing balms. It has a soft, silky texture and is very effective in removing makeup residues while leaving the skin smooth. It doesn’t contain sulfates SLS & SLES, and it works wonders on combination skin. 

Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Enzyme Cleansing Balm

Apart from its bright and intense color that makes your day (or, basically, your evening), this balm smells so good, effectively removes all make-up residue and dirt, and leaves the skin glowing. It contains a mix of exfoliating and calming papaya seed oil, papaya enzymes, papaya extract, and antioxidant-packed blueberry, which makes it the ideal base for your skincare routine. 

Oak Essentials Cleansing Balm

It has a velvety texture and gently dissolves makeup and impurities while helping to replenish the lipid layer and reinforce the skin’s natural moisture barrier that leaves your skin smoother and moisturized. On the plus side, it’s formulated without silicones, colorants, sulfates, phthalates, or parabens, and it comes with sustainable packaging.