What is a cleansing balm and what is it for
Cleansing balm is a cleanser with a texture that sits between an oil and a cleansing milk, formulated with vegetable butters and oils that allow you to remove makeup on dry skin, without needing to wet it first. Its consistency is denser than a liquid oil but glides more smoothly than a solid balm, giving it a very enveloping feel during the cleansing massage.
Its main function is to deeply remove the day's makeup, including waterproof makeup, thanks to a texture very similar to the skin's natural sebum: being oil-based, it dissolves makeup without the need to rub and cleanses while respecting the skin's natural conditions, rather than aggravating it with harsh surfactants.
Which skin types is it best suited for
- Dry or dehydrated skin: its richness in vegetable butters provides an extra boost of nourishment during cleansing, something especially appreciated by skin that tends to feel tight.
- Mature skin: dense, nourishing textures tend to suit it better than highly degreasing cleansers.
- Sensitive skin: since it doesn't require intense friction, it reduces the risk of redness compared to cleansers that require vigorous rubbing.
- Oily skin: it can also be used, although it usually works best as the first step of a double cleanse, followed by a water-based cleanser to avoid a heavy feeling.
How to correctly use a cleansing balm
- Apply the balm with dry hands onto dry skin, warming it slightly between your fingers if the texture allows it.
- Gently massage to dissolve makeup, excess oil and the dirt accumulated throughout the day.
- Wet your hands with warm water and keep massaging: the balm transforms into a lighter, milky texture as it emulsifies.
- Rinse off with plenty of warm water, using a gentle cleanser if you notice any oily feeling remaining.
- Complete with a second cleansing step if the makeup was heavy or waterproof.
What to look for in the formula of a cleansing balm
- Shea or cocoa butter: provide nourishment and soften the texture during the massage.
- Vegetable oils such as jojoba or sunflower: help boost the makeup-dissolving power.
- Ability to emulsify with water: a good balm changes texture on contact with water, a sign that it will rinse off well.
- Mild or no fragrance: preferable if the skin is sensitive or reactive.
Common mistakes when using cleansing balm
The most common one is applying it to damp skin: to work at its full dissolving capacity, it needs skin that is dry from the start. It's also common to rinse it off too soon, without letting the balm fully emulsify with water, which leaves a film-like feeling and forces you to rinse again.
Another common mistake is thinking it always replaces a second cleanser: with heavy makeup or oily skin, it's a good idea to add a water-based step to make sure no residue is left in the pores. It should also be stored somewhere without excessive heat, as high temperatures can alter its texture and make it become too liquid.
When to add a cleansing balm butter to your routine
It's not a product you need to use every day to notice its benefits. It makes more sense on days when you have makeup to remove, after days with a lot of sunscreen, or simply when you feel like spending a bit more time on your evening cleanse. On makeup-free days, a lighter water-based cleanser is usually enough.
It also works well as a transitional step between seasons: in winter, when heating and cold weather tend to dry out the skin more, its richness in vegetable butters provides an extra comfort that other cleansers don't offer. In the warmer months, with more sunscreen and sweating, it still works well, although it's a good idea to emulsify it thoroughly with water so it doesn't leave a heavy feeling on the skin.
With regular use, many people end up saving the cleansing butter for double-cleansing nights and using a lighter format, such as a gel or micellar water, for the rest of the day.
