CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm: what it does and how to use it

What does the balm do?

The balm combines makeup cleansing with a hydrating formula. Jojoba oil helps moisturize skin and leaves it feeling soft and comfortable. Ceramides, which are fats that help the skin's protective barrier retain moisture, are also part of CeraVe's cleansers for dry skin.1

Cleansers remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil and dirt. Cleansing agents called surfactants loosen oily dirt and help water carry it away. Those are general cleansing functions, rather than a reason to expect every formula to remove every cosmetic equally well.3

How should you use it?

Check your balm's package for the amount to use, whether to start on dry or wet skin, how to rinse, and any eye area restrictions. Follow the directions for Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm, not Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser or Hydrating Facial Cleanser. These are separate CeraVe products, and ingredient lists change over time.14

For the surrounding routine, the general evening sequence is makeup removal, cleansing, then your usual skincare. A balm is one way to remove makeup before cleansing, not an entrance exam for a more complicated routine.2

1. 1Remove makeup before bed, using the balm as directed on its package.
2. 2Follow with a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. Use lukewarm water and your fingertips rather than scrubbing.
3. 3Pat your face dry with a towel rather than rubbing it.
4. 4Continue with your usual skincare and moisturizer.

Do you need it morning and night?

Makeup removal belongs in the evening when you have makeup to take off. A gentle cleanser is the usual morning cleansing step; a separate makeup remover is not part of that basic sequence. Double cleansing, using an oil based cleanser followed by a water based cleanser, can also help oily skin in the evening.2

Is it suitable for dry or sensitive skin?

CeraVe includes dry and sensitive skin among the balm's intended skin types. Dry skin needs cleansing that removes impurities without further stripping moisture. Creams, oils and balms are all options; texture preference helps you choose between them. Tightness, discomfort or flaking after washing are reasons to reconsider the cleanser or how much cleansing you are doing.1

Introduce new products one at a time. For sensitive skin, test a pea sized amount behind your ear along the jawline and wait a day or two before using it across your face. Follow the product's washing instructions during the test.2

What if you have acne or rosacea?

For acne prone skin, look for products labeled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Dermatologists also advise an oil free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser. Because this balm contains jojoba oil, choose a different remover if you want to follow that oil free advice. Avoid scrubbing to remove stubborn makeup. If you cannot work out which cosmetic or skincare product is contributing to breakouts, a dermatologist can help.15

With rosacea, choose a mild, fragrance free cleanser and test new products before facial use. Apply and rinse gently with your fingertips, remove the cleanser thoroughly, and avoid rubbing, scrubbing or prolonged massage. If you use rosacea medication, apply it after cleansing, then apply a suitable moisturizer once your face is dry.7

What should make you stop?

Stop using a cleanser that causes irritation, such as redness, itching, swelling or dry, chafed skin. Cleansers can cause irritation or an allergic reaction, and excessive washing can increase dryness and damage the skin barrier. Be especially careful with an acne treatment cleanser as your second wash if you already use an acne treatment that stays on your skin. Seek medical advice for unusual skin symptoms or difficulty finding products your skin tolerates.23

What is the best makeup removing balm?

Choose by skin type, tolerability and the makeup you need to remove, rather than price alone. Price does not tell you how well a cleanser will suit your skin, even when the price tag has expensive opinions. CeraVe's balm is an option for someone who wants a hydrating, soap free makeup cleanser with jojoba oil; acne prone readers following oil free makeup removal advice should choose another format.12

If you prefer a lightweight liquid, micellar water is another makeup removal option for dry or sensitive skin. It removes most makeup and usually does not need rinsing, but heavy or waterproof makeup can require an additional cleanser. Follow it with a gentle cleanser when removing sunscreen or cosmetics. Micellar water and balm are alternative formats, not two steps you automatically need together.6