How to use belif Aqua Bomb Cleansing Balm as a makeup remover

What does a cleansing balm do?

A cleansing balm serves as the makeup removal step in a double cleansing routine. Double cleansing means using an oil based cleanser first, then a water based cleanser. The first step helps remove waterproof makeup, sunscreen and excess skin oil. The second removes water soluble material such as sweat and dirt. A second cleanser is an option for stubborn makeup, not a compulsory sequel.2

How do you use it to remove makeup?

Use this general sequence alongside the application directions on your belif jar.

1. 1Apply the balm as directed on the packaging, then gently massage with your fingertips to loosen makeup. Avoid scrubbing.
2. 2Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can dry out skin.
3. 3If double cleansing, leave your face damp and gently massage a water based cleanser over your skin.
4. 4Rinse off the second cleanser and pat your face dry with a soft towel.

When should you use it, and for how long?

Use your makeup removal step before bed, including removal of eye makeup. That does not mean using a balm morning and night. Most people can wash their face in the morning and evening, while dry or sensitive skin can suit a morning water rinse and cleanser only at night. There is no universal massage time for face washing. Follow the product's directions rather than treating a full minute as a requirement.13

Do you need a second cleanser?

Double cleansing is most useful when makeup or waterproof sunscreen is difficult to remove. If one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser removes what you are wearing, a second wash is usually unnecessary. On days without makeup, do not automatically add a balm step. Washing twice can be more drying, so an extra cleanse should solve a removal problem, not give the routine a larger cast.12

What if your skin is dry or sensitive?

Choose gentle, unscented cleansers rather than harsh or excessively drying formulas. For a second cleanse on dry or sensitive skin, a cream cleanser is generally less drying than a foaming cleanser. Fragrance can cause inflammation, so the ingredient list on your belif jar matters more than the product name when deciding whether it fits that preference.24

What if you are prone to breakouts?

For acne prone skin, an oil free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser is a more cautious choice. Look for products labelled "oil free," "won't clog pores" or "noncomedogenic," meaning formulated not to clog pores. Oil based cleansers can cause breakouts, especially when used alone. Do not assume a cleansing balm is suitable for acne simply because it rinses off.23

If you already use acne treatments that stay on your skin, be careful about adding an acne treatment cleanser as the second step. Too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. The second cleanser can be a gentle wash rather than another active treatment.5

What should make you stop or change cleansers?

Stinging, redness, itching, swelling or increasingly dry skin are reasons to stop using a cleanser that appears to trigger them. Cleansers can cause irritation or allergic reactions, and excessive washing removes protective surface oils. If your skin feels dry or irritated after washing, switch to a gentler cleanser rather than adding more washing.15

If new breakouts continue and you cannot identify the responsible product, a dermatologist can help work out the cause. Makeup, hair products and skincare can all contribute, so the newest cleanser is not automatically the culprit.3