How to Use Cleansing Balm

One of my favorite steps in my evening skincare routine is double cleansing my face to effectively remove all the sunscreen, waterproof eye makeup, dirt, grime, and impurities from the day. Double cleansing is a gentle skincare method that involves washing your face first with an oil-based cleanser and then with a regular water-based cleanser. This is much more effective than cleansing once with a regular cleanser alone, and it’s still gentle on your skin. My favorite type of product to double cleanse with is a cleansing balm. If you haven’t yet incorporated double cleansing with a cleansing balm into your skincare routine, it’s time! Today’s post breaks down exactly how (and why) to use a cleansing balm – plus I share my favorites below!

What is Cleansing Balm?

The reason cleansing balms are so effective goes with the scientific principle “like attracts like.” A cleansing balm is a solid or semi-solid oil-based balm. The oils in a cleansing balm attract oil (or sebum) in skin, sweeping it away without drying out the skin. When applied to your skin, these balms transform into silky oils that remove makeup and dirt. They’re ideal for use at night to remove impurities from the day, followed by your regular evening facial cleanser.

The Benefits of a Cleansing Balm

A Thorough Cleanse

Do you sometimes find makeup remnants on a toner pad after washing your face at night or mascara smudges under your eyes in the morning when you wake up? Double cleansing with a cleansing balm will take care of this. They’re ideal for removing stubborn makeup, including waterproof mascara and sunscreen.

Moisturizing Properties

Cleansing balms are typically packed with nourishing ingredients and oils to keep your skin hydrated and moisturize your skin barrier. After double cleansing, your face will feel soft and smooth and won’t feel tight or dry.

Sensitive, Breakout Prone Skin Benefits

Because using a cleansing balm doesn’t involve harsh swiping or scrubbing, it’s gentle on your skin. When traces of makeup and impurities are left within your pores, breakouts can occur. Double cleansing with cleansing balms gets deep into your pores where regular cleansers typically can’t. Of course, it’s always essential to check the ingredients to ensure a balm will work for you and your skin type!

Step 1: Apply To Dry Skin

Scoop out a small amount of cleansing balm and warm it between your fingers. A nickel-sized amount of product should do the job. This cleansing balm is my favorite, but I have more options below for you too!

Step 2: Massage

Now for the fun part. Once you’ve warmed up the product in your fingers, massage it into your skin and over your eyes for around 40-60 seconds. You really want to take your time to ensure the oils effectively penetrate and break down any makeup or sunscreen you have on. This will help dissolve and sweep away impurities. It also feels so good!

Step 3: Rinse

I simply rinse over my sink using my hands and water, swiping them gently over my face and eyes until all the product is gone. I only use balms that leave no slimy residue or film and rinse away quickly and easily with this method. Some people prefer rinsing with a warm, soft washcloth. Either method is acceptable. It’s all about what you enjoy the most!

Step 4: Double Cleanse: The Final Step

After rinsing, when your face is still wet, it’s time to use your regular cleanser to wash as usual. This is the second part of your double cleansing routine that ensures your face is fully clean. If you’re curious this skin-softening cleanser is a long-time favorite of mine for morning and night.

Now you know all about double cleansing with cleansing balms! Once you’ve finished cleansing, you can move on with the remainder of your evening skincare routine. Here are my favorite cleansing balms and my video with more details about why I like each one.

My Favorite Cleansing Balms

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