Cleansing balm or cleansing oil: which is better?

Compare the formula, not just the format

Cleansers contain surfactants, ingredients that loosen oil and dirt so water can wash them away. These ingredients influence how a cleanser feels and how easily it rinses off. Fragrance, preservatives and other additions also affect skin tolerance.4

Is cleansing balm or cleansing oil better for makeup?

Either can be useful for lifting makeup before washing your face with a gentle cleanser. Both qualify for the makeup removal job, which does not need two competing departments. Choose the formula you tolerate rather than assuming one format removes makeup better. Remove eye makeup as well as face makeup before bed, and avoid scrubbing to force stubborn makeup off.12

How should you use them?

1. 1At night, remove your makeup with your chosen balm, oil cleanser or oil free makeup remover. Follow the product's application directions.
2. 2Follow with a gentle face cleanser, applying it lightly with your fingertips rather than scrubbing.
3. 3Rinse the gentle cleanser off with lukewarm water and gently pat your face dry.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after cleansing, including if your skin is oily.

Most people should wash their face morning and night, but that does not mean using two cleansers each time. If you do not wear makeup, double cleansing can add unnecessary washing and dryness. For dry or sensitive skin, water alone in the morning and a cleanser at night can be enough. There is no universal requirement to massage a cleanser for a full minute.1

Which is better for oily skin, cleansing balm or cleansing oil?

For oily skin, choose a gentle, foaming face wash labeled oil free and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Oil based and alcohol based cleansers can irritate oily skin. A harsh cleanser is not a better solution: irritation can trigger increased oil production. If you wear makeup, use an oil free remover before your gentle wash. Cleanse up to twice daily and after sweating.3

Do cleansing balms clog pores?

Some cleanser formulas can cause comedonal acne, meaning blackheads and whiteheads. The word 'balm' alone cannot tell you whether a particular formula will cause trouble. These blocked pores form when debris builds up in the hair follicle alongside increased skin oil production. Scrubbing is not the answer, because abrasive washing can injure the follicle.45

Stop using a product that is causing breakouts. If you cannot identify the culprit, or acne continues after changing products, a dermatologist can help distinguish product related acne from other causes.2

What if cleansing leaves your skin irritated?

Change to a gentler cleanser if washing leaves your skin dry or irritated. Cleansers can cause stinging, dryness or contact dermatitis, an irritated skin rash. Be particularly careful about adding an acne treatment cleanser when you already use an acne treatment that stays on the skin: combining them can cause excessive dryness and irritation.14