Ask any expert, and they’ll tell you that skin care’s cardinal rule is a thorough cleanse—a process made all the simpler with the best cleansing balm. Unlike the serum-gels and plush cream washes you’re likely accustomed to, these balms whip botanical oils into a semi-solid mixture (think a cleansing oil but more solid) that can slough away dirt, oil, impurities, and makeup. There is a catch, though. Cleansing balms are best used as a first step in a double cleansing, rather than as a one-and-done step in your face-washing ritual.
Vogue’s Favorite Cleansing Balms
Best AffordableJuno & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing BalmRead more$15
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“As a first step, cleansing balms help remove oil-soluble skin-care products, like makeup, while a regular water-based facial cleanser will remove residual grime, sweat, and dead skin cells that remain on the skin surface,” double-board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, tells Vogue. Below, a look at the best makeup-melting cleansing balms, according to experts and editors alike, for skin that is cleaner—and softer—than ever.
In This Story
- What is a cleansing balm?
- Are cleansing balms effective?
- What skin types should skip using cleansing balms?
- How to Use a Cleansing Balm
- How We Tested
- Meet the Experts
