The best cleansing balm melts makeup, lifts away impurities and doesn’t leave your skin tight or stripped. We’ll walk through the best facial cleansing balms, digging into what makes them special and how you pick the right one for your skin.
Why Your Skin Needs a Facial Cleansing Balm
You might think washing your face with the usual gel cleanser is enough, but here’s the thing: makeup, SPF and environmental grit often hang on tight. A facial cleansing balm works as your first step to break all that down.
Think of it like oiling a lock before a key, it loosens things up. Then your regular cleanser finishes the job. And yes, I messed this up once by skipping the balm, and the next morning my skin felt… less than fresh. Lesson learned.
Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Best for Sensitive Skin: Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
Best Clean/Plant-based Choice: Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm
Best K-Beauty Value: Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Best Budget Option: e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm
Best Innovative Packaging: Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
Let’s zoom in on each one.
1. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
This luxurious facial cleansing balm has earned serious editor-love. It’s got a balm-to-oil texture that melts into your skin, removing makeup effortlessly.
When I used it, the jar felt spa-like, and the smell reminded me of a Sunday morning treat (yes, guilty). A little goes a long way—just a fingertip sized amount. Because it’s so rich though, if you have oily skin you might feel slightly heavier than with a lightweight balm.
This cleansing balm is ideal if you want indulgence plus performance. It’s met by many as a “treatment” step rather than just a cleanse.
Pros:
- Rich, luxurious texture that melts into your skin
- Excellent at removing long-wear makeup and SPF
- Leaves skin feeling soft, nourished and not tight
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Might feel heavy for oily or combination skin
- Stronger scent which some sensitive-skin folks may not love
This is the best facial cleansing balm if you’re ready to treat your skin and don’t mind spending a bit more.
2. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
This facial cleansing balm is praised for its simplicity and gentle formula. According to reviews, it melts away even waterproof mascara and leaves skin clean but not stripped.
I tried it on a busy travel day and appreciated how fuss-free it was. The scent was minimal (hallelujah). For sensitive skin types, this is a win. On the flip side: if you love a fragrance-rich experience, you might find this a bit plain.
If your skin gets easily irritated or you just want no-fuss, this cleansing balm nails it.
Pros:
- Fragrance-minimal and suitable for many skin types
- Effective at melting makeup without irritation
- Trusted brand with strong reputation
Cons:
- Less luxe feel compared to ultra-premium balms
- Might not feel “treat-y” enough for some
- Size options/pricing may vary
A smart pick for sensitive or low-maintenance skin: this cleansing balm gets the job done without drama.
3. Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm
This facial cleansing balm brings in botanical good-stuff and a balm-to-oil formula that reviewers say removes even heavy makeup with ease.
I found its texture delightful—soft sorbet-like, melts quickly. If you enjoy plant-based skincare and want that blend of efficacy plus gentleness, this is it. However: being “clean” doesn’t always mean ultra-cheap—so it leans mid-high in price. If you prefer very minimalist packaging or ultra-budget, there might be less glamour here.
This cleansing balm is perfect if you care about ingredients and want something effective and luxe-ish.
Pros:
- Melts makeup and SPF easily, without residue
- Contains plant extracts, cleanses gently
- Good for a range of skin types
Cons:
- Price is moderate-high
- Some scent/fragrance might be present
- Availability/size may vary
A top choice for conscious skincare seekers: this cleansing balm balances performance with cleaner formula.
4. Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
This K-beauty facial cleansing balm offers great value and performance. It’s known for its sherbet-like texture that turns into an oil and rinses off clean.
I used this one after a full face of makeup and was impressed how quickly it broke everything down. If you’re sticking to a budget—or just want a strong performer without luxury pricing—this one is a solid pick. On the caution side: packaging might feel less premium, and if you have very dry skin you might still want a follow-up moisturizer.
In short: great value + good effective cleansing balm.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Melts makeup, suitable for multiple skin types
- Easy to use texture and rinse-off
Cons:
- Packaging and feel less premium
- Might require extra moisturizer afterward for very dry skin
- Some users report scent or finish issues (as with many products)
If you want a cleansing balm that works hard but doesn’t cost a fortune, this is a standout.
5. e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm
Here’s the budget-friendly gem. This facial cleansing balm brings home performance at a lower investment. It’s been noted in beauty round-ups for delivering solid results.
I admit—I wasn’t expecting luxury from a budget pick, but this one surprised me in a good way. The texture is lightweight, it removes makeup reasonably well and leaves skin comfortable. But of course: you might not get the ultra-rich feel or long-list of botanical oils found in premium balms. If you wear heavy makeup or waterproof eyeliner daily, you might need to follow up with something stronger.
Still: for everyday use? This cleansing balm is very good.
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly
- Good performance for everyday makeup removal
- Light feel, comfortable on skin
Cons:
- Less “luxury” feel compared to high end options
- Might struggle with very heavy makeup or waterproof items
- Ingredients list might not satisfy every skincare purist
A smart cleansing balm for day-to-day use when you want something effective but affordable.
6. Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
This facial cleansing balm stands out for its innovative packaging plus solid performance. The twist-dispenser makes it easy to grab just the amount you need.
I liked how clean it felt after using it—no heavy waxy finish. One caveat: the twist dispenser is clever, but if you’re in a rush you may still find yourself fiddling with how much to twist. Also, like many high-performing balms, the price is up there.
If you value design + function + effective cleansing balm, this one is worth a look.
Pros:
- Unique dispenser ensures correct application amount
- Effective at melting makeup, comfortable finish
- Modern, clean aesthetic
Cons:
- The dispenser might take a moment to adjust to
- Price point is high
- Might be excessive for very light makeup days
An excellent choice if you like skincare tools that feel premium and you want your cleansing balm to feel like part of the ritual.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Facial Cleansing Balm
Choose Based on Skin Type & Makeup Load
If you wear heavy makeup or waterproof items daily, pick a cleansing balm with rich textures and powerful makeup-melting ability. For minimal makeup or sensitive skin, go for gentler formulas that still cleanse effectively.
Texture & Finish
Many cleansing balms start solid or balm-like, then melt into oil or milk when you massage them. That texture transformation matters—it helps lift away makeup without tugging your skin. Check how your skin feels afterward: soft and comfortable? You’re good. Tight or waxy-feeling? Maybe not.
Ingredients & Sensitivity
Look for balms with skin-barrier friendly ingredients—safflower oil, ceramides, nourishing botanical oils. Avoid formulas that leave you feeling stripped or cause redness. If your skin is sensitive, fragrance-minimal and gentle is safer.
Packaging & Practicality
Small jars, tubs or twist dispensers: pick what fits your routine. If you travel, you may prefer sealed containers or tubing. Also check how easy it is to scoop out the balm (and keep fingers clean).
Price vs Frequency
If you’re using it nightly, cost per use matters. A high-end balm may be worth it if you love it and it works, but if you’ll skip nights or use only occasionally, a mid-tier option might deliver similar benefits for less.
Follow-up Routine
A cleansing balm is often considered step one in a double-cleanse. After you melt off makeup and dirt, follow with your regular cleanser if needed. This combo helps your skin better absorb serums and moisturizers.
Conclusion
Switching to one of the best facial cleansing balms can really change how clean your skin feels and how it responds to the rest of your skincare. From rich, luxurious formulas to budget-friendly options, there’s a balm for every routine and budget. Pick one that fits your skin, your style and your routine. Your skin (and self in the mirror) will thank you. Give it a try and see what works for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a facial cleansing balm and why should I use one?
A facial cleansing balm is a skincare product that melts into oil (or sometimes milk) when you massage it on your face. You use it to remove makeup, sunscreen and build-up as the first step of cleansing. It helps your skin feel softer, clearer and prepped for your next steps.
2. How do I use a cleansing balm in my routine?
You typically scoop a small amount of cleansing balm into dry hands, massage it onto dry skin (including around the eyes if needed) until it transforms, then add a bit of water to emulsify and rinse off. After that you can follow with your regular cleanser if you choose a double-cleanse.
3. Can I use a cleansing balm if I have oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes, many cleansing balms are formulated for oily or acne-prone skin. The key is choosing one labeled non-comedogenic, lightweight, and that doesn’t leave a heavy film. Some of the best facial cleansing balms handle build-up without aggravating oiliness.
4. How often should I use a cleansing balm?
You can use a cleansing balm nightly if you wear makeup or sunscreen. On lighter days you might still use it because it’s gentle and pleasant. If your skin feels dry or irritated, you can cut back or use it only on heavier makeup days.
5. Will a cleansing balm replace my regular cleanser?
Sometimes yes, but not always. Many people use a cleansing balm as a first cleanse, then follow with a gentle cleanser if desired (double-cleansing). If your skin responds well and you feel fully clean after the balm alone, you might skip the second step. It depends on your skin and preference.
