No longer greasy or gritty, these cleansing balm formulas promise to nourish, hydrate and remove makeup without clogging your pores. Here’s why a cleansing balm needs to be in your autumn beauty routine, says editor Trudi Brewer.
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Cleansing off makeup is
tedious but crucial in any skincare routine. This is where the benefits of cleansing balm shine. What makes them so effective? Most are oil-based, meaning they instantly dissolve the oils and emollients and remove grime without harsh scrubbing. But most importantly, they cleanse the skin without stripping its natural oils and damaging the skin's barrier. Contrary to popular belief, cleansing balms are - with one caveat- suitable for all types. Only those with excessively oily, breakout-prone skin must be cautious using rich cleansing balms. We suggest removing waterproof makeup with the balm and double-cleanse with your regular oil-free cleanser. Read on to learn why we love these nourishing balms.
Eve Lom Cleanser, $49.
It would be remiss not to mention the mother of all cleansing balms. This skincare classic never dates; it’s that good. The botanical scent is uplifting and soothing thanks to the blend of clove, eucalyptus, hops, and chamomile oils. It leaves skin with a fresh, almost bracing feel post-cleansing. It quickly obliterates every scrap of makeup, making it a luxurious, spa-like addition to any beauty routine—especially in winter when your skin could benefit from the extra nourishment.
Once in your hands, the solid formula melts into an outstanding, silky texture that glides across the skin, dissolving every scrap of makeup. But the best news is that it washes off, leaving no greasy residue behind. Finally, this balm is stacked with safflower seed oil and coconut oil extract, which is fragrance-free and a win for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
hot tip
So, how do you use a cleansing balm? These balms can be massaged directly onto wet or dry skin and activated with warm water, depending on preference. Then, use a face cloth or muslin to remove the balm. Another tip: cleansing balms offer a lot of ‘slip’, so you can treat yourself to an at-home facial while deep cleaning skin at the same time.
Q+A Grapefruit Cleansing Balm, $20.
A cleansing balm can present challenges when travelling because most formulas are in tubs. Enter Q+A, which is available in a portable tube. While this formula isn’t as solid or salve-like as the others, it quickly melts into a true oil to cleanse sunscreen and heavy-duty waterproof makeup, leaving skin feeling hydrated and fresh. Thanks to vitamin C from grapefruit nourishing cocoa butter and a natural olive oil squalane.
Another travel-friendly, organic option that transforms from a silky balm-like oil into a milky emulsion once massaged with water. The sunflower seed oil, chamomile, and pansy extract all hold nourishing benefits while erasing stubborn makeup and SPF. It can also be used as a nourishing facial mask. Apply a thin layer on clean skin and leave it on for ten minutes, then wash off another bonus when travelling. We can’t get enough of the refreshing, familiar herbal Skin Food scent and its mighty hydrating benefits.
Hot tip
Most balms are a swift, practical option if you’re slack at cleansing your skin. They can also be used without water. Their silky balm-to-oil nature will wipe off with cotton pads, allowing the leftover nourishing oils to soak in. This will not only leave your skin clean but also hydrated. Cleansing balms are perfect for time-poor people who want good skin without a complicated routine.
ALPHA-H MELTING MOMENT CLEANSING BALM WITH WILD ORANGE LEAF EXTRACT, $72.
Sunscreen is often hard to budge, but not with this balm cleanser. Every good word you have read about this delicious balm-to-oil is accurate. It effortlessly melts off your makeup and sunscreen with its clever, waterless formula boosted with actives and antioxidants. These include native Australian wild orange leaf extract, sandalwood seed and grapeseed oils. Your skin is clean, nourished, and smells divine after using this brilliant balm; our style director, Louise Hilsz, is a die-hard fan.
Here’s what we are excited by.