10 Best Cleansing Balms for Makeup Removal (2026): Gentle Picks
A cleansing balm is one of the easiest ways to remove stubborn makeup and sunscreen without scrubbing. It starts as a solid, creamy balm, melts on contact with your warm hands, and turns into a silky oil that dissolves what is on the skin.
Part of our guide to makeup how-to. Start with: How to Properly Put On Face Makeup: The Right Order, Step by Step
Balms became popular through double cleansing, a Korean routine in which an oil-based cleanser comes first and a gentle water-based cleanser follows. The idea is simple: oil lifts oil-based makeup and sunscreen, and the second cleanser washes away the rest.
Top 10 at a glance
| # | Product | Best For | Standout Feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm | Anyone who wants a spa-style cleanse and does not mind the cost | Well-known luxury balm that melts to an oil | Buy Now |
| 2 |  Farmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Balm | Dry or mature skin that likes plant-based formulas | Botanical balm from a popular natural-leaning brand | Buy Now |
| 3 |  HEIMISH All Clean Balm | First-time balm users | One of the most popular Korean balms | Buy Now |
| 4 |  Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Balm | Sensitive skin that wants a short ingredient list | Simple, minimalist Korean formula | Buy Now |
| 5 |  JUNO & Co. Cleansing Balm | Daily makeup wearers | Everyday balm in a tub | Buy Now |
| 6 |  Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm | Dry and combination skin | Gentle balm from a well-liked Korean brand | Buy Now |
| 7 |  e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm | Anyone who wants to try balms without spending much | Low-cost balm from a drugstore brand | Buy Now |
| 8 |  CeraVe Cleansing Balm | Dry, sensitive or barrier-damaged skin | Drugstore balm from a ceramide-focused brand | Buy Now |
| 9 |  Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm | Anyone who wants a long-established balm | Long-running balm from a dermatology-inspired brand | Buy Now |
| 10 |  Neutrogena Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm (Fragrance-Free) | Fragrance-sensitive skin | Fragrance-free drugstore balm | Buy Now |
We picked ten widely reviewed cleansing balms on Amazon, from drugstore options to luxury jars. They are listed from highest to lowest list price, so the order does not imply a ranking. Use the Best For and Skip it if lines to match a balm to your skin.
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We have not tested every product. Our descriptions come from the listings, the brands and general knowledge of balm formulas, so your own experience may differ. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, check the ingredient list and patch test first.
If you have never used a balm, expect a different feel from foaming cleansers. The first few uses can feel oily until you learn how much product to scoop and how long to massage.
Once the routine clicks, many people find it faster and gentler than scrubbing with wipes or harsh cleansers. Our picks cover different budgets, textures and skin types so you can start with a product that suits you.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not change which products we include.
Key Takeaways
- A cleansing balm is a solid oil that melts on skin and lifts makeup, sunscreen and sebum.
- Use it on dry skin, massage, add water to emulsify, then rinse.
- Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser if you wear makeup or sunscreen.
- Fragrance-free options suit reactive skin best.
- Rich balms can feel heavy on oily skin.
- Rinse thoroughly to avoid a film that may clog pores.
- Remove contact lenses before using a balm near the eyes.
What This Covers
- The 10 Best Cleansing Balms for Makeup Removal Right Now
- How We Chose These Cleansing Balms
- What a Cleansing Balm Does
- How to Use a Cleansing Balm Step by Step
- How to Choose a Cleansing Balm
- How to Fit a Balm Into Your Routine
- Who Should Use Them and Who Should Skip
- Honest Limits
- When to See a Professional
- Common Questions
- The Takeaway
The 10 Best Cleansing Balms for Makeup Removal Right Now
Every pick below is a widely reviewed Amazon listing, ordered from highest to lowest list price. The order says nothing about quality, so use the Best For line to match a product to your skin.
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Best for: Anyone who wants a spa-style cleanse and does not mind the cost
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a prestige balm that melts on the skin and rinses or wipes away with a cloth. It is the highest-priced item here and is positioned as a treat rather than a basic cleanser.
Choose it for the texture and routine, not because it does more than cheaper balms. Its scent is noticeable, which some people love and others avoid.
- Solid balm that melts into an oil
- Removes makeup and sunscreen
- Luxury skincare brand
- Used with a cloth or water
Pros
- Pleasant, cushioned texture
- Dissolves makeup well
- Feels like a spa step
Cons
- Highest price on the list
- Noticeable scent
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a fragrance-free or budget cleanser.
Check Price on AmazonFarmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Balm
Best for: Dry or mature skin that likes plant-based formulas
Farmacy’s Clean Bee balm is a botanical cleansing balm that melts makeup and sunscreen. It is aimed at people who want a gentle cleanse with natural-leaning ingredients.
It is a good fit for dry skin. Like all balms, it can leave a film if you do not rinse well, so follow it with a gentle water-based cleanser.
- Botanical cleansing balm
- Melts makeup
- Suited to dry skin
- Comes with a cloth in some sets
Pros
- Gentle feel
- Good for dry skin
- Pleasant to use
Cons
- Pricey for the size
- Needs a thorough rinse
Skip it if: Skip it if your skin is oily and breakout-prone.
Check Price on AmazonHEIMISH All Clean Balm
Best for: First-time balm users
HEIMISH All Clean Balm is a widely reviewed Korean balm that melts makeup and sunscreen. Its fan base is large, which makes it a safe, well-tested first purchase.
It is a good pick for people who want to try double cleansing without spending too much. Because it is rich, rinse thoroughly.
- Korean cleansing balm
- Melts makeup and sunscreen
- Comes in a tub with a spatula
- Popular for double cleansing
Pros
- Very popular
- Easy to use
- Good value
Cons
- Scent preference varies
- May feel rich on oily skin
Skip it if: Skip it if you hate rich, oily textures.
Check Price on AmazonPyunkang Yul Cleansing Balm
Best for: Sensitive skin that wants a short ingredient list
Pyunkang Yul is known for minimalist Korean skincare, and its cleansing balm follows that approach with a restrained formula. It aims to remove makeup without lots of extras.
It is a good choice if your skin reacts to complicated formulas. It may be less effective on heavy or waterproof makeup.
- Minimalist formula
- Cleansing balm
- Korean brand
- Meant for makeup and sunscreen
Pros
- Simple ingredient approach
- Gentle positioning
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Less dramatic removal of heavy makeup
- Smaller product reach
Skip it if: Skip it if you wear heavy, waterproof makeup daily.
Check Price on AmazonJUNO & Co. Cleansing Balm
Best for: Daily makeup wearers
JUNO & Co. makes a cleansing balm meant for daily makeup removal. It melts into a light oil and is meant to rinse clean.
It is a reasonable middle-priced option for daily use. We have limited information on its ingredient details, so read the label for anything you are allergic to.
- Cleansing balm in a tub
- Daily makeup removal
- Melts to an oil
- Rinse-off formula
Pros
- Easy daily use
- Mid-range cost
- Melts smoothly
Cons
- Less brand recognition
- Check the ingredients for allergens
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a product with a long track record.
Check Price on AmazonBeauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
Best for: Dry and combination skin
Beauty of Joseon is a popular Korean brand, and its Radiance Cleansing Balm is a gentle option for removing makeup and sunscreen. It is known for a soft, creamy texture.
It suits people who want a pleasant, light-feeling balm. Heavy makeup may need a second pass.
- Cleansing balm
- Soft, melting texture
- Korean brand
- Removes sunscreen and light makeup
Pros
- Gentle feel
- Popular brand
- Good value
Cons
- May need two passes for heavy makeup
- Fragrance varies by batch for some people
Skip it if: Skip it if you wear heavy waterproof makeup.
Check Price on Amazone.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
Best for: Anyone who wants to try balms without spending much
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm is a low-cost balm that melts makeup and sunscreen. It is one of the cheapest ways to try a balm.
It is a sensible starter. The formula is simple, but it may feel heavy to oily skin, so wash again with a gentle cleanser.
- Cleansing balm
- Melts makeup
- Budget-friendly
- Drugstore brand
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to find
- Works for everyday makeup
Cons
- Can feel heavy
- Less refined texture than pricey balms
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a luxury feel.
Check Price on AmazonCeraVe Cleansing Balm
Best for: Dry, sensitive or barrier-damaged skin
CeraVe is known for ceramides and gentle formulas, and its cleansing balm follows that identity. It is meant to remove makeup while leaving skin comfortable.
It is a good drugstore choice for dry or sensitive skin. We have not tested it, so patch test if your skin is reactive.
- Cleansing balm
- Ceramide-focused brand
- Drugstore pricing
- Makeup and sunscreen removal
Pros
- Gentle positioning
- Easy to find
- Reasonable cost
Cons
- Texture varies by preference
- Not the strongest on waterproof makeup
Skip it if: Skip it if you dislike heavier textures.
Check Price on AmazonClinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
Best for: Anyone who wants a long-established balm
Clinique Take The Day Off is one of the best-known cleansing balms. It melts into a silky oil that dissolves makeup and sunscreen.
It has a long track record and a large fan base. The brand is fragrance-conscious, but check the label if your skin is sensitive.
- Cleansing balm
- Melts to an oil
- Long-running brand
- Removes makeup and sunscreen
Pros
- Established reputation
- Silky texture
- Dissolves makeup well
Cons
- Mid-to-high cost for the size
- May feel rich on oily skin
Skip it if: Skip it if you prefer lightweight gel cleansers.
Check Price on AmazonNeutrogena Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm (Fragrance-Free)
Best for: Fragrance-sensitive skin
Neutrogena’s fragrance-free cleansing balm is designed to melt makeup without added scent. Fragrance is a common irritant, so this stands out for reactive skin.
It is an easy, affordable choice for beginners. As with all balms, rinse well to avoid residue.
- Fragrance-free
- Cleansing balm
- Drugstore pricing
- Melts makeup
Pros
- No added fragrance
- Affordable
- Widely available
Cons
- Basic texture
- May leave a film if not rinsed well
Skip it if: Skip it if you want a spa-like texture.
Check Price on AmazonHow We Chose These Cleansing Balms
We looked for cleansing balms with a large number of reviews and strong overall ratings, and kept to a maximum of two products per brand. We included luxury, drugstore and Korean options so you can see how they compare.
We do not show prices or star ratings because both change often. Instead, we describe what each balm is, who it suits and who should skip it.
Where we had limited information about a formula, we said so, and we recommend reading the current label for anything you are allergic to.
What a Cleansing Balm Does
Makeup, sunscreen and sebum are largely oil-based, so they dissolve better in oil than in water. A cleansing balm contains oils and emulsifiers that lift these substances from the skin and then rinse away when you add water.
That makes balms useful for waterproof sunscreen, long-wear foundation and mascara. They are less necessary on days when you wear nothing but a light moisturizer.
Balms are not the same as cleansing oils or micellar water. Oils are liquid and often come in a pump bottle, while balms are solid and scooped from a tub. Many people find balms less messy because they stay put until they melt.
How to Use a Cleansing Balm Step by Step
Using a balm correctly helps prevent residue and clogged pores.
Start with dry hands and face
Do not wet the face first, because water can reduce how well the balm lifts makeup.
Scoop and warm
Take a small scoop and warm it between your palms until it melts.
Massage for a minute
Use gentle circular motions over the face, avoiding the eyes unless the label says it is safe.
Add water to emulsify
Wet your hands and keep massaging until the balm turns milky.
Rinse and follow up
Rinse with warm water or a soft cloth, then use a gentle water-based cleanser if you wore makeup or sunscreen.
Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can leave skin feeling tight after an oil-based cleanse.
Take out contact lenses before cleansing, and stop if a balm stings your eyes. Some formulas are not intended for use around the eyes.
How to Choose a Cleansing Balm
Think about your skin type, how much makeup you wear and whether you are sensitive to scent.
| Skin type | What to look for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Dry or mature | Rich balms with soothing oils | Heavy fragrance |
| Oily or acne-prone | Lighter balms that rinse clean | Residue from thick formulas |
| Sensitive | Fragrance-free and short ingredient lists | Essential oils and strong scent |
| Heavy makeup wearers | Balms that emulsify quickly | Needing two passes |
If you are new to balms, a lower-cost option from a drugstore or Korean brand is a safe way to learn whether you like the texture before spending more.
Also consider the tub. A scoop or spatula keeps the balm cleaner than dipping your fingers in each time.
How to Fit a Balm Into Your Routine
Most people use a balm in the evening, followed by a gentle cleanser. In the morning, a gentle water-based cleanser or just water is usually enough.
| Time | Step | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Evening | Balm on dry skin | Removes makeup and sunscreen |
| Evening | Gentle water-based cleanser | Removes remaining residue |
| Morning | Water or mild cleanser | Keeps the barrier calm |
| Morning | Moisturizer and sunscreen | Protects and hydrates |
If you never wear makeup or sunscreen, you may not need a balm. A single gentle cleanser could be enough.
If your skin becomes red or itchy after starting a balm, stop using it and go back to your previous cleanser.
Who Should Use Them and Who Should Skip
Helps
- Daily makeup wearers
- People who wear waterproof sunscreen
- Dry or normal skin
- Anyone who enjoys double cleansing
- Those who want a gentle way to remove eye makeup
Backfires
- People with very oily or breakout-prone skin who dislike rich textures
- Anyone allergic to an ingredient on the label
- Those with active dermatitis near the eyes
- People who skip makeup and sunscreen
- Anyone sensitive to fragrance who picks a scented balm
Balms are optional. If a gentle cleanser already removes your makeup, you can skip them.
Honest Limits
A balm removes makeup and sunscreen, but it does not treat acne, wrinkles or dark spots. It is a cleanser, not a treatment.
Some balms leave a film if rinsed poorly, and a film can contribute to clogged pores. A second water-based cleanse usually solves this.
We have not tested every product, and the descriptions here come from listings and general knowledge of the ingredients. Your skin may respond differently.
Formulas change over time, so check the current ingredient list before buying.
When to See a Professional
See a doctor or dermatologist if you have persistent redness, swelling, a rash or breakouts that do not improve after changing your cleanser. Eye irritation that does not clear up should be checked by an eye doctor.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Rakib Sarwar is a registered pharmacist with a cosmetology course, not a dermatologist. Talk to a doctor or dermatologist about persistent skin problems.
Common Questions
What is the best cleansing balm for makeup removal?
There is no single best balm. HEIMISH, Clinique and CeraVe are popular starting points for different skin types.
Do I need to double cleanse after using a balm?
If you wear makeup or sunscreen, a second gentle cleanser removes leftover residue. On makeup-free days, a balm alone may be enough.
Can cleansing balms cause breakouts?
Leftover residue can clog pores for some people. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle cleanser.
Can I use a cleansing balm on oily skin?
Many people with oily skin use balms, but lighter formulas and a second cleanse work best.
Are cleansing balms safe around the eyes?
Some are made for eye makeup, others are not. Check the label and stop if your eyes sting.
Should I apply a balm to wet or dry skin?
Apply it to dry skin for the best makeup removal, then add water to emulsify.
How is a balm different from a cleansing oil?
A balm is solid and scooped from a tub, while an oil is liquid. Both dissolve makeup, but balms are often less messy.
How much balm should I use?
A small scoop, about the size of a nickel to a quarter, is enough for most faces.
Do balms remove waterproof mascara?
Many do, but heavy waterproof mascara may need a second pass or a dedicated eye makeup remover.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you get a rash, swelling or persistent irritation after using a balm.
The Takeaway
The best cleansing balm is the one that removes your makeup without leaving your skin tight or greasy. Start with one balm, use it in the evening for a few weeks, and adjust the second cleanser to your skin type.
If your skin becomes irritated or breaks out, stop using the product and talk to a doctor or dermatologist.
Our top pick: ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
If you want one easy place to start, try HEIMISH for a popular Korean balm, CeraVe or Neutrogena for dry or sensitive skin, and e.l.f. if you want to try a balm on a budget. Choose Clinique or ELEMIS if you like a classic, silky texture.
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Written by
Registered pharmacist and founder of Facial Adviser. Rakib's pharmacy training covers how skincare actives work and interact; a later course in cosmetology turned that into a focus on facial treatments and skincare products. He plans, researches and edits every guide on the site and checks health claims against sources such as the American Academy of Dermatology, the FDA and the NIH. He is not a dermatologist; see the Editorial Policy and Medical Disclaimer.
About · Editorial policy · How we choose products · Medical disclaimer · Contact
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