What Is A Cleansing Balm, and How Do You Use It?

There are many different ways to wash your face, from gels and foams to scrubs and oils, but many swear by a cleansing balm over other types of cleansers. So, what is a cleansing balm? It’s a luxurious, nourishing way to cleanse, especially if your skin feels dry, looks dull, or if you wear makeup daily. For those who enjoy double cleansing or prefer a more indulgent skincare routine, cleansing balms are the way to go. 

Want to jump on the hype but not sure how to use a cleansing balm? From how to boss your balm routine to the best cleansing balm for your skin, here’s everything you need to know.

Cleansing balms, also known as balm cleansers, utilise oils and emollients to break down makeup, dirt, SPF, sweat, excess oils, and other impurities on the skin. Many people wonder, “is cleansing balm a liquid?”. While it transforms into one, they typically start as a solid or buttery form which melts into an oil once warmed up on skin and emulsifies into a milky liquid once you add water. 

Particularly great for dry skin due to their nourishing properties, cleansing balms are equally effective for oily and acne-prone skin as the oils in the balm attract excess oils, helping to remove them without stripping the skin.

Cleansing balms have bundles of benefits for your skin. From effectively melting away stubborn to gently nourishing all skin types, every skincare routine can benefit from feautirng a cleansing balm. Here’s our top four reasons why it’s our forever favourite when it comes to cleansing. 

1. A thorough cleanse 

Balms are great for melting away heavy makeup (even waterproof formulas) or breaking down thickly applied SPF which is hard to shift. Because they’re oil-based, they will also help to remove excess oil and oil-based impurities from skin.

2. Kind to skin 

Unlike surfactant-based cleansers (those which foam up), cleansing balms are non-irritating and won’t dry out your skin, compromise its moisture barrier, or disrupt its pH. 

3. Moisturising properties 

Since they’re packed with oils, balm cleansers are incredibly nourishing and moisturising, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth even after cleansing. 

4. Mess-free 

Unlike cleansing oils which tend to be thin and runny in texture (and can end up all down your arms and over your bathroom!), balm cleansers are much less messy, so product doesn’t get wasted. Plus, you only need a tiny amount.

Step 1: With clean, dry hands, scoop out a small amount of balm and warm between your fingers. 

Step 2: Once you feel it starting to melt, apply to your dry face, and begin to gently massage in circular motions all over your face. 

Step 3: Massage for between 30 seconds to two minutes. If you have eye makeup on, lightly massage the eye area until the makeup starts to break down. 

Step 4: Wet a clean flannel with warm water and wring out the excess. Drape over your face and leave for a moment for the steam to open your pores. Take deep breaths and let the steam and scent of your cleansing balm relax you. 

Step 5: Use the flannel to wipe away the balm in gentle sweeping motions. If you’ve been wearing makeup, you may need to resoak and repeat this step. 

Step 6: If you’ve been wearing SPF or makeup, or if your skin is prone to oiliness and breakouts, remember to double cleanse, by following up with a non-oil based cleanser.