Cleansing balm tips

How to use cleansing balm

1. 1Follow your balm's application directions. For example, Dr. Althea Citrus and Honey Deeply Cleansing Balm tells you to keep hands dry and take the balm with a spoon.
2. 2Massage gently with your fingertips to loosen makeup, oil and sunscreen residue. Do not scrub or press harder to speed up removal.
3. 3Remove the balm using its specified method, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Hot water can dry your skin.
4. 4If double cleansing, leave your face damp and gently apply a water based cleanser. Rinse, then pat dry with a soft towel.
5. 5Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy, using a gentle touch around your eyes.

Removal directions differ between balms. Dr. Althea's label specifically calls for wiping away residue with sponge puffs before washing with warm water and cleanser. For general face washing, fingertips are the gentler choice: washcloths and sponges can irritate skin. Do not turn a product's particular instructions into a rule for every cleansing balm.23

When should you use a balm?

Evening is the useful slot for removing the day's makeup before bed. Most people should wash in the morning and at night, but that does not mean using a balm at both washes. If your skin is dry or sensitive, try water alone in the morning and cleanser at night. Wash after heavy sweating, too. If you only wash once a day, make it the evening wash.345

There is no standard massage time for face washing, and a full minute is not a universal requirement. Follow any timing on your cleanser's label rather than extending the massage because a social media routine does. The balm's role is makeup removal during cleansing, not a reason to keep washing repeatedly.5

Do you need a second cleanser?

Double cleansing is most useful for waterproof makeup or waterproof sunscreen. The oil based first step helps remove those residues; the water based step removes sweat and dirt. Most people can clean their face thoroughly with one gentle cleanser, so skincare does not award extra credit for a second wash. Without makeup or stubborn sunscreen to remove, skip the extra step rather than making it automatic.1

Choose for comfort, not the price

Look for a gentle cleanser without fragrance, abrasive particles or alcohol. For dry or sensitive skin, a gentle water based cream cleanser is less drying than a foaming cleanser if you need a second step. Cleanser prices vary greatly even when ingredients are similar, so the receipt is not a cleansing ingredient. Cleansers use surfactants, cleaning agents that loosen oil and dirt and let water wash them away.136

Be more selective if you get acne

Oil based cleansers can cause breakouts, especially when used alone. An oil free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser is another option. Look for "noncomedogenic," meaning formulated not to clog pores, but stop using any product that worsens your acne even if it carries that label. If you use acne medicines that stay on your skin, be cautious about adding an acne treatment cleanser: combining them can cause excessive dryness and irritation.1467

When to stop

Overwashing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin's protective barrier. Stop using a balm that causes redness, itching or tingling; seek medical advice if symptoms worsen. Dr. Althea's balm also warns against use on wounds, eczema or inflamed facial skin. See a dermatologist if acne is worsening, painful or leaving scars, rather than trying to wash it away more aggressively.127