Best Cleansing Balm for Makeup Removal (Plus the One You Should Skip)

Cleansing balms aren't optional anymore. If you wear SPF (you better be) — water-based cleansers cannot remove it fully. You need an oil cleanser as step one of PM.

What makes a cleansing balm great

1. Solid-to-oil texture — melts on contact with skin warmth
2. Emulsifies cleanly with water — doesn't leave a film
3. Plant-based oils as the base (not mineral oil)
4. Gentle enough for eye area — your most delicate skin
5. No fragrance ideally — keeps it safe for sensitive skin

What to skip

❌ Mineral-oil heavy formulas (cheap, occlusive, low absorption)

❌ Anything with synthetic fragrance (irritation risk)

❌ "Cleansing oils" that don't emulsify (leaves residue)

How to actually use a cleansing balm

1. Start with dry hands and dry face — this is critical
2. Scoop a dime-sized amount onto fingers
3. Massage in circles all over face including eye area for 60 seconds
4. Add a splash of warm water — it'll turn milky white
5. Continue massaging for another 30 seconds
6. Rinse clean, follow with your foam cleanser

The double cleanse rule

First cleanse: oil-based (removes SPF, makeup, sebum)

Second cleanse: water-based foam (removes sweat, dirt, leftover oil cleanser residue)

Skip step 1 = clogged pores by Friday. Trust us.

Our pick

The PetalGlow Botanical Cleansing Balm ticks every box. Shea butter, rosehip oil, chamomile, vitamin E. Emulsifies clean. Even removes waterproof mascara without irritation. Fragrance-free.

Bottom line

Oil cleanser first, foam cleanser second, every single PM. This 60-second habit is the difference between clear skin and chronic clogging.