One product that has been gaining so much attention and praise in the skincare world is the balm cleanser, and I for one need no convincing.
However, from conversations I’ve had both online and in person, some people do need a bit of convincing. “I’m happy with micellar water”, “I don’t get how they clean my face”…. lots of questions from those who are balm cleanser virgins.
I actually use a balm cleanser as my first cleanse step, in what I would say is my double cleanse routine. So I can only share a personal view of using your balm cleanser as your step one, to remove the makeup. Then my step two is using a gel cleanser, to thoroughly deep clean.
I massage my balm cleanser into my dry skin first, making it a real facial massage moment. Then I rinse a flannel under warm water, and fully remove. I follow with a gel cleanser, before using my day/night serum and moisturiser.
Honestly, this routine has done wonders for my skin, and so many others are saying the same. Here’s why balm cleansers deserve a prime spot in your skincare routine, along with 5 of our favourites here at parlor.
Effortlessly Removes Impurities:
Balm cleansers are powerhouse performers when it comes to removing makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess oils. Their rich and creamy texture effortlessly melts away even the most stubborn of impurities, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed without stripping away its natural moisture.
Gentle Yet Effective:
Unlike some harsher cleansers that can leave your skin feeling dry and tight, balm cleansers are incredibly gentle. They effectively cleanse your skin without disrupting its delicate balance, making them suitable for all skin types.
Nourishes and Hydrates:
What sets balm cleansers apart is their ability to nourish and hydrate the skin while cleansing. Packed with skin-loving ingredients like natural oils, antioxidants, and vitamins, they provide a dose of hydration and nutrition with every use.
Spa-Like Experience:
Using a balm cleanser can feel like treating yourself to a mini spa session in the comfort of your own home. The luxurious texture, soothing scent, and gentle massage as you work the balm into your skin can turn your everyday skincare routine into a pampering ritual.
Address Multiple Concerns:
Beyond cleansing, many balm cleansers offer additional skincare benefits, such as brightening, anti-aging, or calming properties. By incorporating a balm cleanser into your routine, you can address multiple skincare concerns in one step, simplifying your regimen without sacrificing results.
5 of the best Balm Cleansers
Ella and Jo Melt the Day Away £36
This Irish gem is perfect for sensitive skin and is one of the newest ones we’ve tried out. Packed with skin-loving ingredients like Raspberry Seed Oil, Squalane and Coconut Oil, it’s lightweight, moisturising, non-comedogenic, and balancing for all skin types.
It feels a little more solid at first touch than some of the others we’ve tried, but once warmed up on your fingers, it melts into skin beautifully. You can shop Ella + Jo here.
Temple Spa In the Beginning Cleansing Balm £35
We like to call this one a ‘spa in a jar,’ as this balm boasts a very rich, velvety texture that deep cleanses and exfoliates. Infused with olive, calendula, and lavender oils, it transforms your cleansing routine into a soothing ritual. It’s the only one we’ve tried with little exfoliating particles, in which we would say this is one of the best for skin that needs a little bit of increased skin cell turnover, or for anyone who has pigmentation, uneven skin tone, or textured skin.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm £45
A cult favorite, Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is renowned for its anti-aging properties. Its blend of 9 essential oils (including Lavender and Chamomile) and combined with elderberry, starflower, and optimega oils, along with rose and mimosa waxes, provides a nourishing cleanse that also firms and smooths the skin. Loved for it’s easy-to-scoop-out texture, deep cleansing properties and that dewy glow it gives after use.
The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter £12
One of the more affordable ones on the list, this one is more of a ‘waxy’ feel balm which comes in a tin style packaging. Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, this buttery balm from The Body Shop gently removes makeup and impurities. Enriched with calming camomile, it leaves your skin soft and soothed. It feels more greasier than the others, making it more ideal for those with dry skin. Priced from £12 and you can shop here.
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm £13-£32
Another golden oldie and long time favourite for many, Clinique’s cleansing balm is known for its lightweight formula. This balm quickly transforms from a solid balm to a silky oil upon application, and effortlessly breaks down stubborn makeup and sunscreen, leaving no residue and ensuring a thorough cleanse.
Are you balmy about cleansing balms? Or haven’t yet indulged?
