Facial Cleansing Balms for Makeup Removal: here's what actually helps. After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend extra time removing your makeup. But with long-wear, waterproof products becoming increasingly popular, it can be difficult to find the right product to do the job.
What Are Facial Cleansing Balms and How Do They Work
Traditional cleansers might irritate your skin or not work as well as you would like. Enter cleansing balms. These multitasking products are designed to remove even long-wear and waterproof makeup, sunscreen - and other daily impurities from your skin without drying it out.
Cleansing balms are oil-based cleansers designed to remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and daily impurities without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier. Unlike cleansing oils, which start as an oil - cleansing balms start as a solid balm and melt into an oil when massaged onto the skin. This texturized formulation lifts away dirt and debris from pores and melts away even the toughest eye and lip makeup. The cleanser then transforms into a smooth, milky liquid texture with the addition of water, making it easy to rinse off.
How to Use Facial Cleansing Balms for Makeup Removal
While waterless cleansers like balm cleansers and micellar water might seem similar, you use them differently. Micellar water relies on water, so you can simply splash your face with it - but cleansing balms require an initial dry rub.
- Start with a dry face and dry hands. Take a quarter-size amount of balm in your palm.
- Gently massage the balm all over your face, paying particular attention to areas with more makeup or buildup. The balm will melt into an oil as you massage.
- Splash your face with water to see how easily the oil-based cleanser transforms into a milk-like substance. You'll notice all the dirt, oil, and makeup lifted away from your face.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Follow with a toner and moisturizer.
You can also use cleansing balms to remove eye and lip makeup. Soak a cotton pad or washcloth in warm water and gently press it on your eyes or lips for 30 seconds. Follow by rubbing the balm on top of the wet cloth or pad to activate the milk-like consistency. Gently wipe away makeup, then rinse with water.
Benefits of Using a Cleansing Balm
Some cleansing balms are packed with beneficial ingredients like antioxidants - hyaluronic acid, and peptides that nourish the skin. Other cleansing balms contain hydrating ingredients like squalane or shea butter that moisturize the skin. Since cleansing balms are oil-based, they tend to be better for dry and mature skin types that could use some extra moisture. Those with acne-prone skin should look for oil-control benefits like salicylic acid.
Are Cleansing Oils and Cleansing Balms the Same Thing
Think of cleansing balms as an evolution of cleansing oils. Both are oil-based cleansers that remove impurities from the skin without stripping it. However, there are some key differences.
The biggest difference between cleansing oils and cleansing balms is texture. While cleansing oils are liquid, cleansing balms start out as a solid that turns into an oil after it's rubbed on the skin. The transformation from solid to liquid gives cleansing balms a unique texture that some skin care lovers love.
Another difference is that not all cleansing balms can be rinsed off with water. Some need a damp washcloth or cleansing mitt to wipe away the balm. Other cleansing balms fall somewhere between an oil and a balm - so be sure to read labels carefully. For example, the first step of the Olivate Fresh Start 2-Step Face Cleansing Kit is technically a cleansing balm, but it's more of a thicker cleansing oil.
Are Cleansing Balms Right for Your Skin Type
As long as you're purchasing a quality product from a reputable brand, all skin types can benefit from cleansing balms. Formulations packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and nourishing antioxidants are especially beneficial for dry, sensitive - and mature skin types. Those with acne-prone skin can look for formulas with added salicylic acid or charcoal.
Choosing the Best Facial Cleansing Balm
With so many products available, finding the right one for you can be difficult. Look for products with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to both cleanse and nourish the skin. Avoid products with irritating additives like artificial perfumes.
If you're unsure which product is right for you, consider asking a dermatologist or esthetician for their recommendation. Price shouldn't be a determining factor, as both drugstore and department store brands excelled during testing.
