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After a long day, the last thing we want to do is stand at the bathroom counter to carefully swipe every bit of foundation, concealer, and mascara off our face—but if we don't, the breakouts and irritation that can follow are less than ideal. We've found that a cleansing balm makes the makeup removal process much easier and faster. "Balm-to-oil formulas break down pigments very effectively," says celebrity makeup artist Keita Moore. Similar to cleansing oils, they work because oil attracts oil; the oily balm clings onto the pigments, sebum, dirt, and grime. Typically, cleansing balms come in sealed jars, making them easy to travel with. They also last a long time since a little goes a long way, and they're more environmentally friendly than wipes. Plus, they don't strip the skin, says Moore.
The best way to use a cleansing balm is to gently rub a pea-size amount onto your unwashed, dry face to break down the product. Next, wash your face with warm water or wipe with a clean cloth. "Follow with your favorite gel, cream, or foam cleanser, then apply moisturizer," Moore says. Ahead, shop some of our and Moore's favorite cleansing balms.
Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Leaves skin soft
Cons
- Some reviewers find the formula greasy
Made with eucalyptus, avocado, jojoba, and clove leaf oils, this cleansing balm is like a spa for your face. It's very moisturizing, so it's great for dry skin and it easily dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and waterproof formulas.
BANILA CO Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
BANILA CO Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Might be a little heavy for oily skin types
Protect, nourish, and hydrate your skin with this hypoallergenic formula that's infused with vitamins C and E.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
Pros
- Affordable
- Celebrity-makeup-artist-approved
Cons
- Some reviewers say it isn't great for removing mascara
If you're new to cleansing balms, this is a great introductory product pick. It's affordable, available at the drugstore, and effective. Moore loves using it on clients because it's easy to apply and contains nourishing vitamin E.
Pros
- Comes with a woven muslin cloth for a deep clean
Cons
- It's a splurge
The OG of cleansing balms, this formula includes a woven muslin cloth to gently wipe skin clean.
Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Fragrance-free formula
Cons
- Might be a little thick for acne-prone skin
This soft, buttery balm is gentle enough for reactive skin and yet strong enough to remove waterproof mascara. It's fragrance-free and vegan.
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Oil breaks down waterproof formulas
Cons
- Some reviewers say they don't like the smell
If you don't like the thickness of some cleansing balms, you'll appreciate how quickly this formula transforms into a silky oil when you rub it between your hands.
Renee Rouleau Better Than Balm
Pros
- Lightweight
- No need for double cleansing
Cons
- It's more expensive than other options on this list
If you find that balms are too greasy or oily, try this lightweight formula. It starts off as a balm, melts into an oil as you rub, and then emulsifies into a milky gel cleanser with water. You'll effectively remove any dirt, makeup, and grime—no double cleansing necessary.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Restores elasticity
- Makes skin look dewy
Cons
- It's more expensive than other options on this list
Moore loves this balm because it leaves the skin dewy and nourished, thanks to an elderberry-and-starflower-oil blend. It may also help restore elasticity, thanks to padina pavonica, a type of brown algae.
Tatcha The Indigo Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Gentle formula
Cons
- It's more expensive than other options on this list
This fragrance-free cleansing balm is ideal for sensitive or stressed-out skin. Japanese indigo extract soothes and helps repair the skin barrier while cleansing lipids help break down makeup and dirt.
Babor Hyaluronic Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Plumps the look of fine lines
Cons
- It's pricey
Packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid, this formula makes skin appear plump and smooth as the marula, argan, and macadamia oils wipe away makeup without leaving a greasy residue.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleansing Balm
Pros
- Repairs skin barrier
- Lightweight
Cons
- It's more expensive than other options on this list
This formula is chockfull of good-for-your-skin ingredients like pre-and probiotics, sunflower seed oil, almond oil, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin. It's gentle, repairs the skin barrier, and is lightweight, making it great for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Dezi Skin Skin So Balm
Dezi Skin Skin So Balm
Pros
- Boosts radiance
- Skin feels nourished after
Cons
- Not sold at popular retailers like Sephora or Ulta
This rich cleansing balm effortlessly removes the most stubborn makeup without harsh scrubbing. It's also packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that leave your skin glowing and feeling nourished.
Keys Soulcare Nourishing Cleansing Balm + Makeup Remover
Keys Soulcare Nourishing Cleansing Balm + Makeup Remover
Pros
- Helps reduce excess oil production
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Some reviewers don't like the smell
Shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and macadamaia seed oil offer softening benefits, while bamboo charcoal removes excess oil and dirt.
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok
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