CeraVe cleansing balm: what it does and how to use it

What is in the balm?

The US balm contains jojoba oil and three ceramides, which help maintain the skin's protective barrier. It has a melting texture and is formulated without fragrance, soap, alcohol or parabens. CeraVe labels it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Use your package for the current ingredient list.1

Why use a balm instead of water?

Water alone does not dissolve all the oily residue on skin, so the tap is not a complete makeup removal department. A cleanser lifts residue from the skin's surface so rinsing can carry it away. General guidance for oil based cleansing is that it helps break down waterproof makeup, sunscreen and excess skin oil before a water based cleanser.23

How do you use CeraVe cleansing balm?

1. 1Take a pearl sized amount with your fingertips or a skincare spatula.
2. 2Massage gently over dry skin in circular motions.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
4. 4Follow with a non oil based face wash to complete CeraVe's double cleansing directions.

Use your fingertips without pulling or tugging. Scrubbing harder does not give a deeper cleanse and can cause redness or irritation. Avoid very hot or cold water; hot water can strip beneficial oils and worsen dryness. Dry gently with a clean, soft towel rather than rubbing with a scratchy fabric. Finish with moisturizer to help prevent moisture loss, and use sunscreen in your daytime routine.2

Should you use it morning and night?

Use the balm for evening makeup removal. CeraVe's routine directions specify evening only, although its product description also allows twice daily use. There is no specified waiting period before rinsing.1

General face washing guidance is to cleanse in the morning and evening, plus after heavy sweating. That does not mean using two cleansers at every wash. Washing too often can strip moisture; washing too little can allow dirt and oil to build up. If your cleansing frequency leaves your skin uncomfortable, a dermatologist can help adjust it.2

Do you actually need to double cleanse?

Double cleansing is most useful for removing waterproof makeup or waterproof sunscreen. For most people, one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is enough. The balm is a makeup removal step, not a requirement to give every face wash a supporting cast. If your usual cleanser removes everything comfortably, adding a balm is optional rather than an automatic upgrade.3

If you do double cleanse, choose the second cleanser for your skin type. For dry, sensitive skin, a gentle, unscented cream cleanser is generally less drying than a foaming cleanser. A water based foaming cleanser is an option for combination skin. Normal skin can use a gentle, unscented cleanser in either texture. These are general cleanser choices, not a reason to replace a face wash that already suits you.3

Is it the same as CeraVe's other hydrating cleansers?

These are different cleansers, despite names that read like rearrangements of the same fridge magnets. The balm and Foaming Oil details below are for US products; the Hydrating and Cream to Foam details are for the Africa market versions.45

Choose the Foaming Oil Cleanser if you want a wet skin face and body wash aimed at dry to very dry skin. Choose the Hydrating Cleanser if you prefer a nonfoaming lotion for normal to dry skin. The Cream to Foam Cleanser is the option here that combines daily facial cleansing and makeup removal in a cream that lathers. Follow the directions on the product you buy rather than treating the names as interchangeable.456

Who should be careful?

Avoid direct contact with your eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.1

Acne prone skin needs more caution with an oil based balm: oil based cleansers can cause breakouts, especially when used alone. An oil free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser is an alternative recommended for acne prone skin. Remove makeup before bed and avoid scrubbing, including when makeup is difficult to remove. If a skin care product is causing breakouts, stop using it rather than continuing to cover the problem with makeup.37

Overwashing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin barrier. Do not respond to discomfort by adding more cleansing passes. If breakouts persist or you cannot identify which makeup or skin care product is causing them, a dermatologist can help separate product related acne from other causes.37