Best cleansing balms and oils

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a guarantee of results.

Best Cleansing Balms and Oils: Frequently Asked Questions

What is cleansing balm?

A cleansing balm is a soft, solid cleanser that melts into an oil when you warm it between your fingers. It gently dissolves makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum and daily impurities without stripping or drying out your skin.

Unlike foaming or gel cleansers, cleansing balms are oil-based, which means they attract and lift away oil-based buildup (think: long-wear foundation, SPF and mascara) while leaving skin feeling soft and nourished. They work for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

What is a cleansing oil?

A cleansing oil is a lightweight, liquid cleanser that works on the same "like attracts like" principle as a cleansing balm: oils dissolve other oils, lifting away makeup and impurities without harsh scrubbing.

Cleansing oils typically come in a pump bottle and spread easily across the skin. When you add water, they emulsify into a milky texture that rinses away cleanly. They tend to feel lighter than cleansing balms, making them a great option for guests who prefer a quicker, less-rich cleanse—especially those with oily or combination skin.

What's the difference between a cleansing balm and a cleansing oil?

The main difference is texture. Cleansing balms are solid and buttery, melting into an oil on contact with skin. Cleansing oils are liquid from the start. Both dissolve makeup and impurities effectively, they just go about it differently.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Cleansing balm: Solid texture, more precise to apply, richer feel, ideal for dry, sensitive or mature skin and heavy makeup removal. Travel-friendly—no leaks.
• Cleansing oil: Liquid texture, spreads quickly, lighter feel, great for oily or combination skin and lighter makeup days. Can be a little messier to handle.

Both are excellent first-cleanse options and pair well with a water-based second cleanser.

For more details on double cleansing, discover our What is Double Cleansing article.

What are the best ingredients for cleansing balm?

Look for nourishing, non-comedogenic plant oils and skin-supportive actives. The best cleansing balm ingredients include:

• Jojoba oil: Closely mimics skin's natural sebum; balancing for all skin types
• Grapeseed oil: Lightweight and rich in antioxidants; great for oily or acne-prone skin
• Starflower (borage) oil: Deeply nourishing; ideal for dry or sensitive skin
• Chamomile or rose extracts: Soothing and calming for reactive skin
• Hyaluronic acid: Helps maintain moisture during cleansing
• Niacinamide: Supports an even skin tone and helps regulate oil production

Avoid cleansing balms with mineral oil, alcohol, artificial dyes or paraffin, especially if your skin leans oily or is acne-prone, as these can clog pores or cause irritation.

How to use cleansing balm?

Using a cleansing balm is simple, and it's actually a great moment to give yourself a little facial massage.

1. Scoop a small amount (about a pea-sized portion) with clean, dry fingers or a spatula
2. Warm the balm between your fingertips until it melts into an oil
3. Apply to a dry face and massage in gentle, circular motions for 30 seconds–2 minutes
4. Add a little warm water to emulsify the balm—it'll turn milky
5. Wipe away with a warm, damp washcloth or rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
6. Follow with a water-based cleanser if you're double cleansing

Always start with dry skin, water will prevent the balm from bonding to and dissolving your makeup and SPF.

How to use cleansing oil?

The technique for cleansing oils is like cleansing balms, always start with dry hands and a dry face.

1. Pump a small amount into your palms
2. Apply directly to dry skin and massage in circular motions for 30–60 seconds
3. Add water to emulsify—the oil will turn into a milky, rinse-friendly texture
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
5. Follow with a gentle gel or foam cleanser for a complete double cleanse

Pro tip: if your cleansing oil doesn't emulsify well with water, you may need to rinse more thoroughly to avoid any oily residue.

How often should I use cleansing balm?

For most skin types, once a day in the evening is ideal, especially if you've been wearing makeup or SPF. That's when a cleansing balm really earns its keep.

If your skin is oily or acne-prone, you can use one up to twice a day (morning and night). As with any new addition to your routine, start slowly and see how your skin responds. The goal is a thorough but gentle cleanse, not one that leaves your skin feeling tight or stripped.

Do you wash off or wipe off a cleansing balm and should I follow up with another cleanser?

You can do either! Most guests use a warm, damp washcloth to wipe the emulsified balm away. It's effective and adds a gentle, spa-like element to your routine. Rinsing directly with lukewarm water works too.

Whether to follow up with a second cleanser depends on your skin:

• Yes, double cleanse if you've worn heavy makeup, sunscreen or have oily or acne-prone skin. Follow with a gel, foam or clay cleanser to clear any remaining residue.
• A single cleanse may be enough if you have dry or sensitive skin, wore minimal makeup or skipped SPF that day.

Double cleansing is especially worth it in the evening, your skin will be prepped and ready for the rest of your routine.

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