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Remember when everyone was nervous to put anything thicker than a foaming cleanser on their face? Not anymore! (Thankfully.) Instead of stripping every last ounce of moisture from our skin, we’ve come to our senses… and learned a thing or two about how our skin works! I’ve been using a cleansing balm for years and haven’t looked back. Let’s dive into what a cleansing balm is, why use one, how to use them and my favorite balms on the market.
What is a Cleansing Balm?
A cleansing balm is made from oil. It can be used as an every day facial cleanser but is especially great at removing makeup and deep cleansing impurities. Instead of stripping the skin as you cleanse, you are actually moisturizing when you use a cleansing balm.
Cleansing Balm vs. Cleansing Oil
A cleansing balm and a cleansing oil are super similar. The main difference is the consistency of the products. A cleansing balm is a butter-like consistency that is more solid than a cleansing oil which is liquid. Both are great for deep cleansing your face!
I personally reach for a cleansing balm more often because I don’t like when oil drips between my fingers and down my hands. Having said that, I know a lot of people prefer cleansing oils because it’s easier to just pump out a cleanser. It all comes down to personal preference! Here are the best cleansing oils if that’s what you prefer.
How to Use a Cleansing Balm
Start with clean, dry hands and a dry face. Scoop a quarter-sized amount of cleansing balm out (either with your fingers or a spatula) and warm the balm slightly between your palms. Gently massage the cleansing balm all around your face. I like to make this process as spa like as possible! Take your time to gently “scrub” your face, while focusing on any areas with makeup or areas that need a little extra attention.
Once you feel like you’ve covered your entire face and any makeup you’re wearing has been lifted from your face, wet a clean wash cloth or towel with warm water and gently wipe away the cleansing balm.
If you have dry skin, this can be the end of your cleansing! If you have oily skin, you may want to follow up with a gentle foam cleanser as a second cleansing step.
Now let’s get into the best cleansing balms out there…
My Favorite Cleansing Balms
01. BeautyCounter Cleansing Balm ($72)
I know...are you just as surprised to see Beautycounter on this last as I am? I've made my thoughts on Beautycounter very clear but I gotta shout out the one product from Beautycounter which I love and ultimately introduced me to the glory that is cleansing balms. This is a fantastic product BUT let me make it very clear that you do not need to spend $72 on a cleanser. There are equally as good products out there for far less money (keep scrolling) but credit goes where credit is due and Beautycounter does their cleansing balm very well.
02. ODE Olive Oil Cleansing Balm ($30)
If you're looking for another dupe for the Beautycounter Cleansing Balm then look no further than this ODE Cleansing Balm. I do find this one is slightly "meltier" so definitely store it in a cool place but it's equally as effective. Use code HEALTHYMAVEN to save 15% off your first order.
03. Lovinah Power Cleansing Balm ($45)
I LOVE this product so much. It feels indulgent and smells so good you'll want to eat it. I find it leaves less of a sticky residue after than some of the other cleansing balms on this list but is equally as effective and moisturizing.
04. One Love Organics Botanical B Cleansing Oil Solid ($49)
I'm convinced this product is a cult classic because it's sold out everywhere (I found it at AILLEA for you!) but it's probably because this cleansing balm is super effective and so so moisturizing. One thing to be aware of is that this product does contain fragrance. Technically it's naturally derived fragrance but for anyone sensitive to fragrance you may want to skip this one.
05. Evolve Organic Gentle Cleansing Melt ($28)
I discovered Evolve Organic products this year and I absolutely adore them (their moisturizers are fab!). Their cleansing balm is no exception. Simple, clean ingredients. Great price point and you get a lot for your buck! A really nice entry-level product to cleansing balms.
