Best cleansing balms in 2026

Which cleansing balm should you choose?

Choose The INKEY List for a lower priced, rich balm

Oat Cleansing Balm is the budget pick here, with a 50 ml size if you want a smaller first purchase. The current formula contains 5% oat kernel oil, increased from 3%, and added sea buckthorn oil. Choose the current version rather than assuming an older tube has the same formula. The INKEY List lists it as suitable for sensitive skin, sensitive eyes, pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains sweet almond oil and ingredients derived from nuts, so check suitability before buying if you have a nut allergy. The brand recommends patch testing before adding it to your routine.5

Choose CeraVe for fragrance free facial makeup removal

CeraVe combines jojoba oil with three ceramides, ingredients that help maintain the skin's protective barrier. Its formula contains no alcohol, soap, fragrance or parabens, and the brand lists it for dry, oily and sensitive skin. The important distinction is around the eyes: CeraVe tells you to avoid direct eye contact. Choose it primarily for foundation and other facial makeup rather than treating it as interchangeable with Clinique's eye makeup directions. If the balm gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.1

Choose Clinique for waterproof eye makeup

The original Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm removes longwear facial makeup, waterproof eye makeup and sunscreen. Clinique lists it as suitable for sensitive skin and sensitive eyes, and the formula is fragrance free. Safflower seed oil helps dissolve makeup and natural oils on the skin. This pick is the original balm, not the separate charcoal version. Clinique offers three sizes, so committing to the full jar is not an entry requirement. The 1 oz option costs less upfront, while the 6.7 oz jar costs less per ounce than the smaller sizes.2

What does a cleansing balm actually do?

Cleansing balms use oils to dissolve makeup, skin oil and other buildup. They usually have a rich, partly solid texture rather than the liquid texture of a cleansing oil. A balm starts solid and melts into oil, so the jar is not asking you to wash with a candle. Adding water can turn the balm into a milky texture, a process called emulsifying. The point is makeup removal during the wash, not waiting several weeks for the cleanser to start working.1

How to use each balm

1. 1Start with dry skin. Clinique and The INKEY List also specify dry hands. Take a raspberry sized amount of Oat Cleansing Balm, a pearl sized amount of CeraVe, or a small amount of Clinique.
2. 2Massage gently with your fingertips. The INKEY List gives a massage time of 30 to 60 seconds. Follow each product's eye directions rather than assuming every makeup remover belongs around the eyes.
3. 3Add warm water to emulsify The INKEY List balm. Rinse every balm thoroughly with warm or lukewarm water; none of these is a makeup remover you leave on after cleansing.
4. 4Follow with another cleanser where directed. CeraVe instructs you to do this, Clinique includes it in its double cleansing routine, and The INKEY List says a second cleanse is optional.
5. 5Pat dry with a soft towel. Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy, without pulling at the skin around your eyes.

Do you need to double cleanse?

Double cleansing means using two different cleansers in sequence, not giving the same face wash an encore. The balm goes first to dissolve makeup, followed by a water based cleanser to remove remaining residue. Follow the directions for the balm you choose rather than adding the second wash automatically. For The INKEY List, the balm can remove makeup and sunscreen on its own. For CeraVe, a follow up face wash is part of the product directions.14

When and how often should you use a balm?

Evening is the practical time to remove the day's makeup. Clinique allows use whenever you need to remove makeup or sunscreen. The INKEY List allows morning and evening use. CeraVe's routine panel specifies evening use, although its product description also allows twice daily use; evening is the straightforward choice for makeup removal. General face washing guidance limits washing to morning, evening and after heavy sweating. Do not add extra washes to chase a cleaner feeling. Overusing skincare products can cause irritation and sensitivity.12467

What if you have acne or easily irritated skin?

For acne, look for skincare labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. CeraVe and Clinique carry that claim, but an oil based balm is not the same thing as an oil free makeup remover. General acne guidance favours an oil free remover, followed by a gentle cleanser, before bed. Use light fingertip pressure and lukewarm water. Scrubbing does not improve the routine; it irritates skin. Washcloths and sponges can also irritate, so you do not need a removal tool to make the balm work.1236

If a skincare product is causing breakouts, stop using it rather than repeatedly trying to cleanse away the problem. Several makeup, hair and skincare products can contribute to acne, which makes the cause difficult to identify. A dermatologist can help if breakouts continue or you cannot work out which product is responsible. A cleansing balm removes makeup; it does not replace acne treatment.3

Check the packaging and store the balm properly

CeraVe and Clinique update ingredient lists, so use the list on the package you buy to check personal suitability. Keep Oat Cleansing Balm in a cool, dry place at 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, away from direct sunlight. Heat can melt the balm, and natural separation can occur without affecting its performance. Keep it out of children's reach and use it externally only.125