The Oil Cleansing Method
If youve never heard of the oil cleansing method, it simply involves using an oil based cleanser to wash your face with. Oil makes a great cleanser because it can easily remove stubborn makeup, waterproof sunscreen, oil and dirt, much more so than traditional water-based cleansers.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may shudder at the thought of putting oil on your skin, but oil based cleansers are great for oily and acne-prone skin types and they can actually help with oil production and acne.
Should you wash your face after using a cleansing balm or oil? I always recommend double cleansing when using an oil based cleanser, but I know many people only use cleansing oils or balms. If you dont wear makeup or sunscreen, I dont think its necessary to use a water-based cleanser after an oil. However, if you have acne or wear makeup/sunscreen I highly suggest double cleansing.
Cleansing Balm Vs Cleansing Oil
A cleansing balm and a cleansing oil are super similar. The main difference is the consistency of the products. A cleansing balm is a butter-like consistency that is more solid than a cleansing oil which is liquid. Both are great for deep cleansing your face!
I personally reach for a cleansing balm more often because I dont like when oil drips between my fingers and down my hands. Having said that, I know a lot of people prefer cleansing oils because its easier to just pump out a cleanser. It all comes down to personal preference! Here are the best cleansing oils if thats what you prefer.
Etude House Real Art Moisture Cleansing Oil
For those that follow K-Beauty Gurus on YouTube, you will for sure have heard about Etude House. The Real Art Moisture Cleansing Oil from Etude House has a non-sticky oil consistency and does a great job of removing makeup with one wipe. It has anti-wrinkle properties and will not irritate your eyes. It will not leave any residue on your face and will leave your face feeling soft and conditioned. This cleansing oil is thicker than the other cleansing oils on this list and makes for a nice massage when applied to dry areas on the skin. The oil contains coconut oil, sesame oil, apricot kernel oil, and grape seed oil.
Price: 14,000 won
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What Does Cleansing Balm Do Can You Use Cleansing Balm Daily
Before you choose your favourite cleansing balm from our guide below, Emma Hardie Director, Jane Foulston, has shared her tips on how to use a cleansing balm.
Cleansing balms are very effective at dissolving heavy eye and face makeup as well as all traces of dirt that has built up throughout the day or night. Balms are suitable for both a morning or evening routine as well as either a first or second cleanse they are very versatile. Many balms also contain nourishing ingredients such as Vitamin E and essential oils so they dont strip the skin and leave it feeling tight in the same way that other types of cleansers might.
When cleansing with a balm use the opportunity to practice some at-home facial massage and lift and sculpt your eye area, cheekbones and jawline. Support the skin with one hand and use a microfibre cloth to gently buff the skin, using short, linear strokes to work with the natural grain of your facial tissues. This will improve circulation and lymphatic drainage and encourage healthier and younger-looking skin.
“If skin is feeling particularly dry use a nourishing cleansing balm as a simple face mask by leaving it on clean skin for 10-15 minutes and then remove with a warm cloth. Or use it as a lip balm, on cuticles, or on any other dry areas. says Jane.
Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm
Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is formulated with sea buckthorn oil, camellia oil, and shea butter to dissolve, makeup, dirt from clogged pores, sunscreen, environmental pollutants, and other impurities. This is a fragrance-free cleansing balm that is gentle on the skin and leaves skin soft and smooth, never dry or feeling stripped.
This cleansing balm even removes waterproof makeup and mascara. It doesnt leave a weird film on your skin either. This is a great choice for those with sensitive skin since there are very few cleansing balms out there that are unscented.
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Emma Hardie Moringa Balm
If you are looking for a balanced daily cleanser that thoroughly cleanses deep in the pores, moisturises, and calms all skin types, this one is for you. The award-winning balm contains Grape Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil rich in essential fatty acids helping to plump and soften the skin. This balm will remove all traces of face and eye make-up .
Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm
May we interest you in a spa in a jar? Yes? OK, here’s a dissolving butter that slinks into skin and smells of relaxing and refreshing eucalyptus. The formula also contains vitamin E, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and clove leaf oilwhich make it just as good for the skin as for your senses.
Dissolve Cleansing Balm, Versed Day
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How To Use A Cleansing Balm
Massage time The gentle motion helps waken up the skin, and it allows the skin to drink in the oils as the product melts onto the skin. The routine is simple and truly worth it:
then I met you cleansing balm
Whether you are looking for an affordable pick and save some $$ or you are looking to splurge on your skin, we laid out all the options for you. Heres a list of the best cleansing balms and cleansing oils you should consider trying now.
Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm
Made with an impressive cocktail of nourishing ingredients like manuka honey from New Zealand, royal jelly peptide, and pre-and probiotics, takes you straight to the spa. This cleansing removes makeup and dirt, leaving skin clean without stripping it out. It also smells fantastic, plus when you rinse it off, your skin feels fresh, hydrated, and firm.
Bonus point: The apothecary packaging, also is made of recycled materials.
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Glow Recipe Papaya Enzyme Cleansing Balm
The Papaya Enzyme Cleansing Balm is one of the best products to come from Glow Recipe. Once you open it you will feel like you are smelling fresh papayas and mangos on a tropical island. It is filled with papaya enzymes which work great to gently remove dead skin cells and refine the appearance of pores. The papaya seed oil is also great for adding that extra layer of hydration to your skin. In addition, the cleansing balm also contains blueberries which work great to protect your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation and air pollution.
Price: 38,000 won
What Is A Cleansing Balm
Cleansing balms tend to be much more hydrating and gentler on the skin than other cleansing formulations such as gels.
Made from a blend of oils, they transform upon application on the skin, helping to break down makeup, impurities and sunscreen without irritating the skin or making it feel uncomfortable.
They’re perfect for sensitive, dry and dehydrated skin types as they are super luxurious and nourishing.
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Argentum Apothecary La Lune De Velours
Did you know that silver makes for a great skin care addition? Well, silver hydrosol is one of the active ingredients in this dewy blend, and it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. That’s not all, however, this also contains oat, sweet almond oil, vitamin E, and argan oilwhich are what account for the decadent hydration.
Su: M37 Skin Saver Essential Clear Cleansing Oil
For those that can afford it, su:m37 Skin Saver Essential Clear Cleansing Oil is worth the buy. This is one of the more pricer cleansing oils on the list. It contains green tea oil and millet oil for extra skin conditioning benefits. It cleans the skin with a hypo-allergenic formula that has gone through many skin stimulation tests. In addition, this cleansing oil uses 50 kinds of plants. These plants have been naturally fermented for over 372 days. Their main ingredients are fermented giant kelp, deep ocean water, and seaweed extract. It has a gel-like texture but rises off well. This product is a bit hard to find online and is on the expensive side.
Price: 47,000 won
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Olehenriksen Uncover The Truth 3
This balm cleanser has the unique texture of a gel, although it makes on contact with the skin and transforms into a makeup-melting oil. Once water is added, it turns into a milk, and can be rinsed away. It includes vitamins E and C, as well as a collection of nourishing oils. It works best in a double cleansing routine, or to remove lighter makeup. Get this cleanser at !
Cleansing Oil Vs Cleansing Balm For Oily Skin
Should oily use cleansing balms or cleansing oils? Oily skin can use either balms or oils. Many people with oily skin types prefer liquid cleansing oils because they tend to feel lighter than balms. Plus, with more varieties of cleansing oils on the market, many on formulated specifically for oily skin types.
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Which Is Better Cleansing Balm Or Oil
Many people wonder is cleansing oil better than balms? Should you be using a cleansing balm or oil? One is not better than the other, so its really down to personal preference on which one you use. Cleansing balms and cleansing oils have many of the same ingredients, making them very similar to each other. The main difference is the texture and packaging. If you wear a lot of heavy makeup or travel a lot, you may prefer a cleansing balm vs cleansing oil.
Lets use the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Vs Oil, for example. They are virtually the same product, one is a liquid cleansing oil and the other is a cleansing balm. They both work amazingly well.
Pestle & Mortar Erase Balm Cleanser
The Best Vegan Option
This natural and vegan formula destroys any residue of make-up or SPF. This melting consistency quickly turns into a nurturing oil that deeply cleanses the skin. This is the perfect solution if youre looking for both a guilt-free alternative to high-end cleansers and a powerful cleanser. Lastly, it ensures that the skin stays hydrated despite the cleansing process.
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The Best Cleansing Balms To Add To Your Skin
Instead of splurging on the first cleansing balm you see, make sure you choose one that’s a fit for your skin type and condition. Folks who have oily or acne-prone skin will generally want a cleansing balm that’s labeled “non-comedogenic” and is free from notoriously pore-clogging ingredients such as coconut oil, says Dr. Garshick. On the flip side, people with sensitive skin should try to avoid fragrances and essential oils even if they’re NBD for other people, adds Dr. Patel. “These can be very irritating to a compromised barrier,” she says. “If your skin barrier is not intact, which means it’s got little cracks in the surface…you could have a reaction to certain ingredients that most people may not.”
To kick-off your hunt for the perfect oil-busting, skin-nourishing product, shop Dr. Garshick’s and Dr. Patel’s picks for the best cleansing balms below.
Hanskin Pore Cleansing Balm
Hanskin makes my list for the fact that it is a great alternative for those that cant find the Banila Co. Clean it Zero. This cleansing balm is very similar to the Banila Co. Clean it Zero. It is designed for sensitive and reactive skin. It is made with plant-based ingredients and has polyhydroxy acids that help gently dissolve dead skin cell build-up and protect against irritation. The hydrating formula is great for removing makeup and pore impurities. It leaves behind a protective layer of moisture on dry skin to help the skin fight off irritants. Therefore those that do not like the feeling of oily residue on their face should find another cleansing oil. Those that dont mind should remember that the oily residue is there for a reason.
Price: 23,000 won
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Kat Burki Vitamin C Nourishing Cleansing Balm
This is a take on balm cleansers that have a lighter texture than many others, thanks to astringent mango butter, so while it is good for all skin types, those with oily and combination skin are likely to be the most appreciative of its effects. It includes vitamin C to help brighten the skin get the best of that effect by letting it sit on the skin for a few minutes before removing. Speaking of, this balm cleanser can be removed with warm water, but its best to use a face cloth. You can get it at Bloomingdales.
Cleansing Oil Vs Cleansing Balm
Cleansing oils are specially formulated for the face. They are hydrating, soothing, and suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Cleansing balms are formulated with the same ingredients as cleansing oils. The only difference is between their textures. Cleansing balm has a thick texture. It is good for all skin types and is travel-friendly.
You can now officially ditch your cleansing oil or makeup remover for a nourishing cleansing balm. After all, it is great for your skin! Have you made the switch yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Grab one from the ones listed above right away!
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Beauty Pie Plantastic Apricot Butter Cleansing Balm 100ml
Best for: Combination skin
This pastel yellow balm is a joy to use, rich, luxurious and quick to emulsify into a milk when massaged into skin and removed with a warm flannel. Its so comfortable on the skin, we almost didnt want to take it off.
It smells like fresh apricots but isnt overpowering and packed with a fragrant blend of cold-pressed rosehip seed oil, vitamin E and apricot butter that leaves skin feeling refreshed and clean in seconds. It made quick work of our full coverage, matte foundation and a smokey eye without leaving us looking like a panda or staining lids. Plus if youre a Beauty Pie member it costs just £16.07.
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. Her skin is both dry and sensitive, and shes found that using a cleansing balm makes a world of a differenceespecially during the winter. Its also her preferred makeup removal method.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. She is also a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University and specializes in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
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How Do They Work
Since cleansing balms start as a hard texture , youll have to work it into your skin. As you massage the balm on the skin, the heat from your hands turns the consistency to soft and buttery, says Dr. Chimento. Once youre done cleansing your skin, take a soft cloth , and gently wipe your face to clear the balm off. Youll notice all of the residue and makeup that the balm removes on the cloth. You can rinse with water as well if you like.
Best Cleansing Balms For Every Skin Type
There is something undeniably luxurious about rubbing cleansing balms into the skin, and watching all the makeup and grime simply melt. Balm cleansers give a feeling of retro self-care, and using them feels like something that is just natural and correct.
To get you started on cleansing in this totally different way, weve collected 24 best cleansing balms on the market today, and we review each one so you can figure out which will work for you.
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Amly Deep Reveal Nourishing Cleansing Balm
Full of soothing, aromatic organic ingredients, this ultra-luxurious balm is one of our favourites as it melts on contact, sweeping away impurities and leaving skin soft as a baby, totally nourished, and replenished. It turns a basic step into a truly indulgent treatment and, used twice daily, makes a noticeable difference in skin. You may balk at the price, but in this case, you do get what you pay for.
Best Overall Cleansing Balm
This hero product takes the trophy for being the best cleansing balm about. The mineral-free formula is a total joy to use, it’s easy to massage in, a little goes a long way and it excels at removing every last trace of make-up and dirt, whilst leaving skin soft and radiant.
Ingredient-wise, there are rose and mimosa waxes with elderberry, starflower and optimega oils. Plus, the blend of 9 essential oils including Lavender, Chamomile and Eucalyptus smell like heaven in a tub.
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What Are Cleansing Balms Exactly
Just like the name implies, cleansing balms are a type of facial cleanser that has a buttery texture and whisks away sweat, makeup, sunscreen, and grime, says , a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Unlike traditional water-based liquid cleansers, cleansing balms are formulated with a blend of oils such as marula, grapeseed, sunflower, or argan oils making them particularly moisturizing, she explains.
This oily formula also plays a key role in ridding your skin of everyday grime. “It follows the principle that oil attracts oil,” says Dr. Garshick. “You would apply the cleansing balm to the face and as you massage it in, it’s going to work to help draw out any kind of excess oil. It’s great to help break down the stubborn makeup and sunscreen residue that can be sitting on the skin.” And, unlike a makeup wipe, a cleansing balm does so without irritating the skin, as you don’t need to apply a lot of pressure to remove products such as a tattoo-like foundation. “It allows that makeup to almost literally melt away,” says Dr. Garshick.