Skincare is confusing! Just when you think you have figured out your skincare routine- you are already being slapped by new brands and products under the Instagram and TikTok trend! Just about a year ago, I had no clue what a Drugstore Cleansing Balm was (well yes it’s obvious it’s a cleanser) but the “balm” in it makes is intimidating (especially for the oily skin peeps). Don’t worry I got you! Once you know what a Cleansing Balm is and how to use it at drugstore prices, you will never go back! Yes, the skincare lords have heard our cry! there was once a time when Cleansing Balms were rare and expensive. But, just because something is expensive doesn’t mean it gives the best results! Similarly, these Drugstore Cleansing Balms outperform their luxury counterparts. Dupes, dupes!
This post will help you if
- You are looking for skincare on a budget (puh- skincare and makeup are expensive at the moment)
- You want clear skin through double cleansing
- If you want to know what a cleansing balm is and consider trying it out in the future
- You have dry skin and hate the stripped-tight feeling on the skin
Drugstore Cleansing Balm – What is it?
There are different types of cleansers- Water-based cleansers, Oil-based cleansers
Cleansing Balms are Oil-based cleansers that are rich, and buttery and are sold in tub-like packaging. In addition to oils, these balms also include emollients and surface active agents that emulsify with water. When applied on the face skin the solid texture warms up and turns into liquid oil form.
Cleansing balms are the best emulsifiers of makeup, sunscreen, and residue on the skin, and remove them with ease. All this without stripping the skin of its natural oils and leaving behind moisturized skin (a great one for people with dry sensitive skin like me).
These are used in the Double Cleansing Method.
You might also be interested in –
Water-Based Cleansers Vs. Oil-Based Cleansers (Which Cleanser Is Right For You?)
Are Cleansing Balms for all skin types?
Yes, cleansing balms are suitable for all skin types.
How do Cleansing Balms work?
The science behind cleansing balms begins with surfactants. The structure of these molecules consists of both a hydrophilic polar head group and a non-polar lipophilic tail which drives surfactants to oil/water surfaces to facilitate cleansing. The surfactant molecules group together into micelles when they are in a watery environment and instantly trap the dirt following the oil that binds to dirt, makeup, and other oils on your skin so you can get a deep cleanse.
What is Double Cleansing & why you should be doing it?
This simply means you clean your face twice, you use a Cleansing Balm or oil first, and then second you use a water-based cleanser to thoroughly cleanse. So you can use the cleansing balms that will melt the makeup and sunscreen on your skin then you can use any type of cleanser including a gel cleanser or a foam one followed by your usual skincare routine.
How to use a Cleansing Balm?
Step 1- Take a small amount of Cleansing Balm and rub it on your finger until its melts a little, then apply it on your face and massage in gentle circular motions. (I follow the 60-second rule- massage for 60 seconds)
Step 2- Rinse your face with lukewarm water and get clean, dewy skin OR you can use a muslin cloth dipped in warm water and gently wipe off the face. Make sure the cloth is clean.
Step 3- If you are following a Double Cleansing Routine, follow with a cleanser of your choice.
Pro-tip
Make sure to use a scoop or applicator to remove the balm from the tub. This avoids contaminating the tub/jar with your fingers.
How to choose a Cleansing Balm?
- Consider your skin type – If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for cleansing balms with lightweight oils, like jojoba oil and safflower oil, as well as gentle exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. If you have dry skin, opt for cleansing balms that contain humectants, like glycerin.
- Avoid fragrance if you have sensitive skin or eyes – look for a cleansing balm that doesn’t contain fragrance or essential oils.
- Prioritize packaging– Look for a cleansing balm in a tube, not a tub.
3 Benefits of Using a Cleansing Balm
- As discussed above, it is your first step to Double Cleanse– for super clean skin.
- It melts away your makeup and everything else – they combine a mixture of oils and emollients to break down and remove all traces of makeup, SPF, dirt, mascara, and build-up on the skin leaving the skin clean that can breathe.
- It softens and nourishes the skin- this product is magical for people with dry skin, but it is also suitable for all other skin types. If you’ve got oily skin and you’re not convinced, just remember that oil attracts oil, so your skin will actually be left less oily and more balanced.
Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms
1. CeraVe Make Removing Cleansing Balm
Getting this cleansing balm is a total game changer, the perfect first step in my double cleansing routine. Everyone must try this one, it’s affordable and does the job well without stripping my skin and making it dry.
Ingredients
Formulated with three essential ceramides (Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP) to support the skin barrier and replenish dry skin. It contains plant-based jojoba oil a lightweight wax ester that is similar in structure to the natural oils of our skin products and helps lock the moisture. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals and environmental aggressors.
Skin Type
Normal to Dry Skin benefits the best
Other Important Remarks
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy tested
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Doesn’t leave the skin feeling greasy
Drawbacks
A pea-sized amount is not enough, you need to use more than that especially to remove makeup.
2. e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting (Drugstore Cleansing Balm)
E.L.F never ceases to amaze especially as a drugstore brand. The cleansing balm feels great on the skin, closest to a luxury feel.
Skin Type
Normal to Oily Skin
Ingredients
Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Peptides
Other Important Remarks
- Fragrance-free
- Phthalates-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
Drawbacks
The product size could be larger.
You might also be interested in –
E.L.F. Holy Hydration Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm Review
3. Physicians Formula The Perfect Matcha 3-in-1 Melting Cleansing Balm
This one does really melt when applied to the face, green color formula, and smells mild. Physicians’ formula products are usually a favorite.
Skin Type
All Skin Types
Ingredients
Matcha green tea, bamboo shoots, lotus extract, mandarin orange peel oil, and lactic acid.
Other Important Remarks
Hypoallergenic, Gluten Free, Cruelty-Free, Clinically Tested, Vegan, Safe for Sensitive Eyes & Contact Lens Wearers, Dermatologist Tested, Non-Comedogenic, Paraben Free
Drawback
Small for the price paid as compared to others.
4. Banila. co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
K-Beauty cleansing balm, which is sold every 3.1 seconds. This cleansing balm helps dissolve all makeup and rinses away easily, leaving the skin balanced and never feeling tight.
Skin Type
All Skin Types
Ingredients
Botanicals, vitamin E, and Vitamin C to nourish the skin.
Other Important remarks
This particular formulation is so popular that they came up with other formulations such as Pore Clarifying (85% tea tree leaf extract to tighten pores- ideal for oily and acne prone skin). Nourishing (contains ginseng berry, royal jelly perfect for dry skin). Purifying (contains 7 natural stress relieving herbs to calm irritation perfect for sensitive skin). Revitalizing (contains antioxidants to fight environmental aggressors- ideal for aging skin).
Drawback
No major drawbacks
5. The Inkey List Oatmeal Cleanser (Drugstore Cleansing Balm)
Skin Type
Normal to Dry skin (well suited to winters). Definitely ideal for sensitive skin types.
Ingredients
3% Oat Kernel Oil to support skin’s moisture levels, 1% Colloidal Oatmeal to reduce redness and soothe irritation.
Other important remarks
This Drugstore Cleansing Balm is not solid at room temperature, you can squeeze the tube to extract the balm which can get a bit messy. The balm is thick and rich and a second cleanse is required according to me.
Drawbacks
Mostly sold out.
6. Shea Moisture Even & Radiant Raw Honey Cleansing Balm
This one applies thick on the skin and emulsifies quickly. Relatively inexpensive for how much product you get (3.2 oz for $11.99)
Skin type
Normal to Dry skin, can be overwhelming for oily skin types
Ingredients
Raw Honey, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter
Other important remarks
Cruelty-free, ethically traded, and sustainably produced.
Drawbacks
Could smell funny for some people, more like brown sugar than honey.
7. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
Everyone has heard of the brand Neutrogena, it definitely does what it claims- removes makeup and dirt. It’s easier to find in local drugstores or supermarkets around you. The travel-friendly packaging makes this cleansing balm convenient to take on the go in your purse or makeup bag for quick use anywhere.
Skin Type
All skin types, Sensitive Skin
Ingredients
Vitamin E
Other important remarks
Fragrance-free
Drawbacks
Not cruelty-free so if you love animals just as much as me then maybe refrain from buying. Leaves a greasy feeling behind, so make sure to Double Cleanse.
8. Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser
This is a gentle cleanser that removes all makeup and dirt. It transforms into milk upon contact with water hence leaving the skin soft and supple. The chemical change is fun to see! Use a cotton swab to remove eye makeup.
Skin Type
All skin types, sensitive skin
Ingredients
Fermented Oats and Oat Lipid Complex (microbiome-friendly), help to get healthier-looking skin. Organic oils like sunflower seed oil, grape seed oil, and another oil blend help nourish the skin.
Other important remarks
This cleanser defines gentle skincare! Everyone must try this beautiful brand to experience what I mean.
Drawbacks
No major drawbacks but may breakout some people.
9. Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm
This balm is gentle on my sensitive skin and never leaves a weird film behind on my skin after using it. When I found out this product is made with Sea Buckthorn oil I was thrilled (since this is my favorite oil)- the other product that I can rave about is the Living Libations Oil Cleanser which is liquid gold in a bottle. So this product definitely is on the top of my list.
Skin Type
All skin types
Ingredients
Sea Buckthorn Oil, Camellia Oil, Shea Butter
Other important remarks
Great for people with sensitive skin and dissolves makeup well.
Drawbacks
No important drawbacks.
10. Heimish All Clean Balm Cleansing Balm
The packaging is so cute! It comes in with a spatula so that’s great, just locate it on the inner top of the lid (it’s a flip top). Recommended if you do not want to stick your fingers into the tub/jar. This is a Korean Cleansing Balm and also has also earned Amazon Choice Tag.
Skin Type
All skin types (double cleanse recommended)
Ingredients
Shea butter, Coconut Fruit Extract, Lime Fruit Extract, Jasmine Extract, Rose Extract, Orange Peel Oil, Lavender Oil, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Tea Tree Oil, and Bergamot Fruit Oil
Other important remarks
The product contains fragrance, the debate about fragrances in skincare never gets old, but the smell makes me feel like I am in a spa.
Drawbacks
Citrus essential oils can be a worry for people with sensitive skin– so be sure.
11. JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm
This cleansing balm was TikTok famous! the hashtag has around 100+ million views. JUNO & Co. Cleansing Balm helps achieve glowing skin.
Skin Type
All skin types
Ingredients
Japenese Pearl Barley (helps with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, refines skin texture), Vitamin E
Other important remarks
Helps remove any stubborn/sticky makeup
Drawbacks
No major drawbacks
12. Milani Green Goddess Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
The balm turns into a silky oil as soon as it is applied to your skin. When water is added, it turns into a milky wash that easily removes makeup without leaving any greasy residue.
Skin Type
Suitable for all skin types
Ingredients
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil to soothe, nourish, and calm your skin, shea butter, and squalane for additional moisture and to soothe the skin. It has a custom fragrance blend of bergamot, vetiver, and verbena oils.
Other important remarks
100% vegan, cruelty-free, smells beautiful
Drawback
The size of the container and quantity (1.59 oz.)
13. Versed
This balm softens when rubbed on the fingertips and creates gentle milk that rinses clean with less to no oily residue. This one smells like a spa.
Skin Type
All skin types
Ingredients
Vitamin E, Jojoba Oil, Avocado, Eucalyptus, and Clove leaf oil (anti-bacterial properties)
Other important remarks
It breaks down eye makeup easily without stripping the skin. Doesn’t leave a residue on the skin.
14. Beauty Of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
The Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm is a silky oil-based cleanser that effectively removes makeup and impurities. Suitable for most skin types, it’s a Korean popular choice for a luxurious cleansing experience.
Skin Type
For most skin types, including dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin.
Ingredients
Rice Bran oil which contains antioxidants, Jojoba Oil, Grape Seed Oil, and Green Tea Extract
Other remarks
The Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm effectively removes makeup, including waterproof formulas, as well as excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. With regular use, this cleansing balm can help improve the overall radiance and texture of the skin.
15. Derma E Essentials Universal Cleansing Balm
This cleansing balm transforms into a cleansing that removes makes, oil and dirt without leaving the skin dry and itchy
Skin Type
Perfect for all skin types
Ingredients
Rosehip Oil, vitamin A and E, Cocoa, shea butter, citrus essential oil
Other remarks
This cleansing balm includes a small white spatula to scoop out the balm so that you don’t need to use your fingers. The scent is lightly citrusy and not too strong.
16. Palmer’s Coconut Monoi Cleansing Balm
This cleansing balm is formulated to remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities while keeping the skin hydrated. Due to the coconut oil-based formula, removing stubborn eye makeup easy.
Skin Type
Not suitable for acne-prone skin but suitable for all skin types
Ingredients
Shea butter, Cocoa butter, Vitamin E, Sweet almond oil
Other remarks
This balm cleanser is free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates, and dyes. Since it’s only 2.25 oz, if you use this on a daily basis to remove your makeup, it won’t last long.
You might also be interested in –
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen Review here
Here are some of the Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms by skin type/skin concern 2023
- Best Drugstore Cleansing Balm Overall: Heimish All Clean Balm
- Best Drugstore Cleansing Balm for Dry Skin: Cerave Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm
- Best Drugstore Cleansing Balm for Oily Skin: Clean It Zero Pore Clarifying Cleansing Balm
- Best Drugstore Cleansing Balm for Sensitive Skin: The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
Is it good to use cleansing balm every day?
Yes, using a cleansing balm every day is good. It helps your skin stay clean and removes all the makeup, dirt, and oil that cause breakouts, whiteheads, etc. Make sure to double-cleanse when using a cleansing balm every day.
Final words,
These are all my favorite Drugstore Cleansing Balms and products to add to your skincare routine. Good skincare does not have to be expensive, you just need to be able to choose a trustworthy brand and product for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Yes, removing dirt and impurities from the skin is important! Drugstore cleansing balms can also help remove degraded skincare products, sunscreen, and excess oil.
– The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
– Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm
– Physicians Formula
– Versed
– Heimish
For dry skin, a gentle oil cleanser is beneficial as it helps retain natural oils. Between the two options, a cleansing balm is more suitable for dry skin. Cleansing balms are gentle and effectively remove oils without stripping the skin. Additionally, balms provide extra hydration, making them an excellent choice for those with dry skin concerns.
Yes, it is recommended to wash your face after using a cleansing balm. While cleansing balms effectively dissolve makeup, dirt, and impurities, they leave behind a residue of oil and emulsifiers on the skin. Washing your face with water or using a gentle cleanser after using a cleansing balm helps to remove this residue, ensuring a thorough cleanse and leaving your skin fresh and ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.
Apply a moisturizer. Follow your cleansing balm with a night cream or serum. If you use a toner or other face products, you can apply them as well.
Harmful chemicals like parabens, fragrances, and sulfates may cause redness, itching, and discomfort, especially for those with sensitive skin. Opting for toxin-free options reduces the risk of adverse reactions. The above list consists of affordable cleansing balms that are toxin-free and will avoid discomfort or redness on your skin.
3 Comments
Comments are closed.