16 Best Cleansing Balms, Recommended By An Expert – 2024
Effortlessly cleanse your skin of makeup and grime to refresh and nourish it overnight.
Blade Tiessen is a certified esthetician and the owner of a renowned anti-aging clinic in Orillia, Canada. He has over 34 years of experience in the esthetics industry and has worked in several premier spas across Toronto, including the prestigious Yorkville area.
Read full bio of Blade Tiessen
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
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Let’s face it, no one looks forward to washing, exfoliating, and cleansing face each night before going to bed. Even if you are enthusiastic at first, the lethargy will eventually get to you, and you will have to choose between good skin and staying snuggle in bed. All thanks to the best cleansing balms, now you can remove makeup and dirt without having to move out of bed! The natural cleansing formulas hydrate the deepest layers of your skin and cleanse the pores. If you are overwhelmed by the choices in the market and want to select the perfect one for your skin, we will help you select. Here are the 16 highest-rated cleansing balms to invest in for nourished and clean skin. So skim through our list of cleansing balm reviews, soon you’ll find one that works best with your skin.
In This Article
16 Best Cleansing Balms That Work For All Skin Types – 2024
1. Best Overall:Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm
Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm tops the list of any cleansing balms out in the market. The pack comes with a washable, dual-textured cleansing cloth that optimizes the effect of the balm. The effective cleansing formula cleanses your pores thoroughly while moisturizing your skin and leaves it calm and refreshed. Grape seed, sweet almond oils, and Moringa extracts along with other ingredients loaded with fatty acids impart your skin a plumped-up look and rejuvenate and fortify it.
- Delivers on its claims
- Subtle sweet fragrance
- Minimizes the appearance of open pores
- Easy to use
- Expensive
- Insufficient quantity
- Thick texture
"This cleansing balm helps remove my makeup efficiently, leaving no residues. It leaves my skin soft and delivers a non-oily finish to it. I like the floral fragrance of this product which refreshes my mind. Overall it is a good buy."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 158 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
2. Best For Makeup Removal:Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm
Looking for a multitasking cleansing balm that works wonders for your skin? Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm is here to fulfill your requirements. This makeup remover balm melts and removes even the most stubborn makeup quickly and easily. It also hydrates your skin. It is richly formulated with active botanical extracts, hot springs water, and vitamins C and E to provide the ultimate results.
- Hydrates the skin
- Nourishes the skin
- Reduces dryness
- Free from mineral oil and artificial coloring
- Dermatologist-tested
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Thick formula
"This cleansing balm gently removes makeup without causing skin reactions without being a burden to the pocket. It is thick and creamy, which makes it easy to spread on my textured skin. I also use it to clean my pores. It offers moisturization post-wash and makes my skin feel soft and pleasant. It has a mild scent that does not overwhelm my senses."
"This cleansing balm gently removes makeup without causing skin reactions without being a burden to the pocket. It is thick and creamy, which makes it easy to spread on my textured skin. I also use it to clean my pores. It offers moisturization post-wash and makes my skin feel soft and pleasant. It has a mild scent that does not overwhelm my senses."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 1,062 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Hydrating:IT Bye Bye Makeup Cleansing Balm
Here’s a product that does the job of three things: cleanser, makeup remover, and anti-aging serum. It is developed by plastic surgeons and ophthalmologists, so it is safe, soothing, and effective. It contains botanical extracts that remove any traces of eye and face makeup and impurities without drying out your skin. It contains collagen, HCA, peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants that leave your skin looking plump, youthful, and supple.
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Hydrates the skin
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Not effective on waterproof makeup
Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm Best Overall | Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm Best For Makeup Removal | IT Bye Bye Makeup Cleansing Balm Best Hydrating | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive,All Skin Types | All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | - |
| Dimensions | 3.74 x 3.74 x 3.74 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 11.2 Ounces | - | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 158 | 1,062 | - |
| Price | $59.99 | $13.3 | - |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best For Dry Skin:Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm
Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm is going to be your best friend if your skin’s rough texture is your primary concern. Manuka honey is an essential ingredient that nourishes and replenishes the skin barrier. This balm also contains skin cleansing essentials like probiotics and RoyalJelly peptides that strengthen your skin. It is the perfect facial cleansing ritual for dry skin.
- Antibacterial properties
- Hydrates the skin
- Best suited for dry skin
- Gluten-free
- Leaping Bunny-certified cruelty-free
None
"The face cleaning balm genuinely surprised me with a lavish hydration like a refreshing facial treatment. It was a delightful experience to massage it and wipe it off, leaving my skin feeling a youthful freshness. The fantastic scent and quality made it a worthwhile investment. A definite must-try"
5. Best Travel-Friendly:Plum E-Luminence Simply Supple Cleansing Balm
Plum E-Luminence Simply Supple Cleansing Balm is a non-drying sulfate-free cleanser. It instantly melts away impurities, dirt, grime, and waterproof makeup, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple. The luxurious blend of ultra-moisturizing vitamin E, eight plant-derived oils, and waxes pampers your skin and gives it a soft glow. This cleansing balm melts on your skin instantly after application.
- Non-drying
- Sulfate-free
- Glides smoothly on the skin
- Makes skin soft and supple
- Travel-friendly
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- None
6. Best Multitasking:InstaNatural Rose Makeup Cleansing Balm
If you are on the hunt for a multitasking cleansing balm that removes stubborn makeup and gently moisturizes your skin, InstaNatural Rose Cleansing Balm will come to your rescue. This balm has a rich formula of rose extract, manuka honey, coconut oil, and sunflower seed oil that fight free radical aggressors to give you healthy-looking skin. It also reduces the appearance of dryness.
- Moisturizes the skin
- Acts as a double-cleanser
- Prevents irritation and redness
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- No harmful chemicals
- Thick formula
"After testing multiple balms, this one caught my attention. It leaves my skin refreshed and moisturized, with a pleasant rose scent included. It excels at makeup removal, even tackling waterproof varieties. However, it sometimes gets lumpy due to the natural ingredients, but a trick of heating and cooling resolved that. I'd definitely repurchase. It has become my go-to makeup remover."
Quick Tip7. Best Drugstore:Pond’s Cold Cream Cleansing Balm
The Pond’s Cold Cream Cleansing Balm is a highly effective makeup remover that removes all traces of makeup and impurities from your skin in one clean stroke. It is one of the most reliable drugstore products, as it gently nourishes your skin. This cleanser is infused with moisture to give you soft and supple skin. You can rinse it off with lukewarm water to remove all traces of oil and dirt.
- Moisturizes the skin
- Imparts a radiant glow
- Non-greasy
- Slightly oily formula
"For me, this is an absolute godsend as it removes all my makeup in a blink, even the toughest mascara. The formula feels gentle on my skin and has a pleasant scent."
8. Best In Natural Ingredients:Ebanel Alpha To Omega + Sherbet Cleanser
Ebanel Alpha To Omega + Sherbet Cleanser comes in a balm formula that melts on your skin and removes stubborn makeup. It is infused with vitamin C, peptides, natural stem cell extracts, and antioxidants that brighten your complexion and reduce dryness. It also reduces blemishes and exfoliates, smoothens, and lifts your skin. It is suitable for all skin types.
- Natural ingredients
- Smoothens the skin
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- May feel a little greasy on the skin
"I've been using this buttery soft cleansing balm for years. It does a thorough job removing stubborn products such as waterproof mascara and lipstick. Use with warm water and a washcloth, then finish with your favorite toner and moisturizer for a satisfying experience."
9. Dermatologist Recommended:Physicians Formula The Perfect Matcha 3-In-1 Melting Cleansing Balm
This mild and effective face cleanser is a 3-in-1 formula that deeply cleanses your skin and keeps it hydrated and supple. It is rich in antioxidants, lotus, bamboo shoot, and matcha green tea extracts. The clinically tested formula also fights free radicals and moisturizes your skin. It is highly recommended by dermatologists.
- Moisturizes the skin
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Combats the effects of aging
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Free from harsh ingredients
None
"Having included this into my makeup removal routine, I can see its impact. My regular cleanser missed traces that ithis easily tackles. Also, those sensitive to aroma will appreciate the extremely gentle scent. It's a very welcome addition to my regimen."
10. Best Soothing:Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Cleansing Balm
Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Cleansing Balm is a cream-based emulsifier that is a mixture of vitamin E, coconut oil, macadamia oil, almond oil, Tahitian Monoi oil, and tiare flower petals. This cleansing balm’s ingredients are all raw, natural, and fortifying. Moreover, the balm is not tested on the animals for efficiency, making it the best cruelty-free option on the market. From removing makeup to hydrating your skin and pampering it, Palmer’s Coconut Oil Cleansing Balm truly transforms your cleansing experience.
- Moisturizes the skin
- Soothes the skin
- Ethically sourced ingredients
- Inexpensive
- Creamy formula
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- GMO-free
- Phthalate-free
- No mineral oil
- May clog the pores
"I've tried several cleansing balms and this one doesn't disappoint. It removes my makeup thoroughly, including waterproof eyeliner, without leaving a greasy residue. It might feel a tad greasier than others, but its lovely scent makes up for that. What I love is that it's gentle and moisturizing, and you don't need much per use. Pair it with the coconut oil water moisturizer for a perfect skincare routine."
Did You Know?11. Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm
Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm is an antioxidant-rich blend of botanicals like English rose and mimosa waxes, Spadina pavonica algae, and starflower, optimega, and elderberry oils that not only removes makeup and cleanses your skin but also boosts its collagen production. Reviewers on e-commerce websites love the deep-cleansing benefits it offers that ultimately soothes your skin. The formula strengthens your skin’s lipid barrier and imparts a radiant glow to it.
- Boosts collagen production
- Brightens the skin
- Soothes the skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Strong fragrance
- Expensive
12. Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm is the perfect solution for a cleaner and greener skin care routine. It has a pleasing natural fragrance with a hint of lime jelly. Its formula is free of mineral oils, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. This hydrating facial cleanser contains Moringa tree and papaya extracts and sunflower and ginger root oils that keep your skin soft, smooth, and glowing. The formula has been verified and offers clinically proven results. The outcomes reveal that the product improved skin textures and offered visible results after 2 weeks of use.
- Does not dry out the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- Imparts a youthful glow
- Contains naturally-derived ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial dyes
- May irritate sensitive skin
"I appreciate the fantastic cleansing feature of this product, effortlessly removing makeup, dirt, and oil. Though it requires a good amount, it doesn't irritate or dry my skin. However, it can feel clumpy, which appears wasteful. I'll certainly repurchase."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,215 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
13. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm has a silky, smooth, and lightweight formula that is gentle on the skin. It removes makeup, dust, and grime off your skin, leaving it feeling fresh and rejuvenated. It has no fragrance and is easy to use.
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Non-greasy
- Gentle skin cleanser
None
"On my second tub of this makeup remover, I can't see myself without it. Removes virtually all makeup, even layers of setting spray, without irritating my acne--prone skin. No strong scent or greasy residue, perfect for my sensitive skin, only wish it came with a scoop."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 620 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
14. Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser
Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser is a cleansing balm formulated with antioxidant-rich kiwi and strawberry seed extracts and virgin Marula oil that help in intensely cleansing your skin and imparting a glow to it. It is very gentle on your face. It removes the excess oil from your face and gives you a dewy complexion.
- Removes dead skin cells
- Brightens the skin
- Soothes the skin
- Free from harsh ingredients
- Comes with a magnetic scoop
- Feels a bit heavy on the skin
"This makeup cleanser caught my attention late but truly stood out. It eases makeup removal wonderfully, even the stubborn waterproof types. Surprisingly, it's gentler than face wipes and leaves my skin soft. Moreover, it's a fantastic alternative for overly-acne-prone skin like mine. A warm rinse post-use and I’m left with a skin feeling perfect, without dryness or tightness. One of the top oil/balm cleansers I've used!"
15. Heladerm Pro Melting Cleanser
Heladerm Pro Melting Cleanser is an advanced 3-in-1 facial cleanser with a blend of ginseng root, coconut oil, shea butter, vitamin E, and sweet almond oil that deeply cleanses and hydrates your skin. It has antioxidant properties that act as a shield and protect your skin from sun damage. It also boosts the skin’s collagen production while dissolving all the makeup and impurities on your face.
- Hydrates the skin
- Reduces fine lines, sunspots, and wrinkles
- Reduces inflammation
- Cruelty- free
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- 76% organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- GMO-free
- Phthalate-free
- No mineral oil
- Not effective on full-coverage makeup
"My long-lasting mascara, liner, and lipstick are easily taken off. My sensitive skin with rosacea, found safety in this product. I felt no irritation or burning, plus my skin felt moisturized. Even waterproof makeup can't stand against it. I follow it up with a gentle cleanser, ensuring thorough cleansing."
16. Sunday Riley Blue Moon Clean-Rinse Cleansing Balm
Sunday Riley Blue Moon Clean-Rinse Cleansing Balm is made of high-quality ingredients. This sugar-based gentle face cleanser contains essential oils of Blue Tansy and German chamomile that soothe dry, irritated skin. It also contains tangerine oil, organic cocoa and moringa butters, and essential oils of vanilla and sweet orange that clarify your skin and relax your mind.
- Hydrates the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Phthalate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Vegetarian
- Expensive
"I adore this cleanser for my combination skin, particularly its gentle sugar-scrub exfoliation feature. It even doubles as a hydrating mask for 20 minutes. It's a godsend for my Rosacea-prone skin, clearing dry flakes and moisturizing. Something about its scent and the way it melts on my skin is truly remarkable. Using it daily as my two-step face cleansing routine, it leaves my skin feeling refreshed. Overall, it's a fantastic product even for heavy mascara wearers. It's definitely worth a try."
Now that you know all about the best cleansing balms on the market, let’s answer some important questions related to them!
How To Choose The Right Cleansing Balm For You
You can choose the right cleansing balm for your skin depending on your skin type. The next step is to figure out the benefits you want and how you want to improve your skin’s look and feel.
- You can choose a cleansing balm with anti-inflammatory properties that will hydrate your dry skin and exfoliate the dead skin cells.
- You can look for a cleansing balm with an organic formula.
- Some cleansing balms are infused with antioxidants from various fruits and vegetables that nourish your skin and protect it from damage.
How To Use A Cleansing Balm
Before using a cleansing balm, you need to keep the following facial cleansing tips in mind:
- Avoid washing your face with water before applying a cleansing balm.
- Dig in your finger and scoop out a dollop of cleansing balm.
- Rub the balm between your palms and gently apply it on your face.
- Take a soft cotton cloth and dip it in lukewarm water.
- Gently wipe your face with it.
- Use a towel to pat dry your face.
- Apply a toner or a moisturizer.
Confused between cleansing oil and cleansing balm comparisons? Here’s what you need to know.
Cleansing Oil Vs. Cleansing Balm
There are various skin cleansing methods. 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.
The Bottom Line
The best cleansing balms help exfoliate your skin without much effort. It is a great way to retain your skin’s natural glow while washing off all the dirt. The balms moisturize the skin while eliminating excessive greasiness. The Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm offers a luxurious and intensely nourishing cleanse, the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm is infused with natural ingredients to safely rid your facial skin of dirt and debris, and the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a fragrance-free, lightweight formula that gently removes dirt as well as makeup. Most of the products above are sulfate-free and paraben-free and are highly hydrating. However, avoid using thick textured balms as they may block your pores and are not breathable. Choose a balm with anti-inflammatory properties and an organic formula to keep your skin hydrated and well-nourished.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author, is a certified skin care coach and loves to review skin care products for her readers. She carefully selected these cleansing balms after reviewing multiple user testimonials on trusted online forums and researching their ingredients. The cleansing balms listed in this post can remove makeup and dirt with ease. They also hydrate the deepest layers of your skin and cleanse the pores with their natural ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cleansing balm good for your skin?
Cleansing balms are beneficial for your skin in many ways. Removing your makeup can be quite a daunting task. Most foam and jelly cleansers may leave your skin feel dehydrated and flaky. Cleansing balms are made from oils that deeply cleanse your skin and remove all traces of dirt and impurities. You can include cleansing balms in your regular beauty regimen for a healthier-looking complexion.
Which is better – cleansing balm or cleansing oil?
The main difference between cleansing balms and cleansing oils is in the texture. Cleansing balms have a wax-like or creamy consistency. Oils, on the other hand, tend to be a little heavier on your skin. However, both the products can be used as the first step to your cleansing routine. You may prefer a cleansing balm over a cleansing oil if you travel a lot or if you massage your skin regularly.
What to use after a cleansing balm?
You can use a toner or a moisturizer after using a cleansing balm.
Do you wash your face after using a cleansing balm?
Yes. You can wash your face with lukewarm water after using a cleansing balm to rinse off the leftover product. Alternatively, you can wipe your face with a soft cotton cloth dipped in lukewarm water.
Is a cleansing balm a makeup remover?
Yes, cleansing balm is an effective makeup remover. It is a rich, buttery cleanser that helps exfoliate your skin and eliminate makeup, dirt, grease, and oil from your face.
Will cleansing balm clog pores?
No. Although cleansing balms contain heavy natural oils and emollients, they do not clog your pores since you rinse off the product thoroughly almost immediately.
Which is better – cleansing balm or micellar water?
Both products offer unique benefits, and you can use whichever suits your needs. For example, cleansing balms are travel-friendly and hassle-free, ideal for removing heavy, waterproof makeup. You only need to scoop out a little product and massage it onto your skin. On the other hand, micellar water is a milder alternative that works quickly to remove minimal makeup.
Can I use cleansing balm if I have acne?
Yes. Cleansing balms contain nourishing emollients and waxes that help dissolve excess oil, sebum, and impurities that may cause breakouts. They are powerful yet gentle enough to lift heavy comedones without leaving the skin dry.
Read full bio of Blade Tiessen
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
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