How to use elf Holy Hydration Makeup Melting Balm

How do you use a cleansing balm?

1. 1Gently massage the balm over your skin with your fingertips to break down makeup and sunscreen residue. Do not scrub.
2. 2Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can dry your skin.
3. 3If double cleansing, leave your face damp and gently massage in a water based cleanser.
4. 4Rinse again and pat dry with a soft towel.
5. 5Apply moisturizer if your skin feels dry or itchy.

What should you expect from a balm?

Cleansing balms generally have a rich, partly solid texture that melts as you spread it and turns milky when water is added. Their oils help dissolve oily residue, including makeup, sunscreen and excess skin oil. The job is removal during cleansing, not a treatment you need to use for weeks before judging whether your makeup is coming off.2

Do you need a second cleanser every night?

Not automatically. Most people can clean their face adequately with one thorough wash using a gentle cleanser. The balm removes oily residue first; the water based cleanser removes remaining residue, dirt and sweat.12

If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen daily, an evening double cleanse can be useful. Start slowly rather than making two cleansers a compulsory daily rule. Dry to normal skin does not necessarily need double cleansing every evening. Remove makeup before bed, including eye makeup, using a remover suitable for that area.24

What if your skin is sensitive or breaks out?

For dry or sensitive skin, choose a gentle, unscented water based cleanser for the second step. Cream cleansers are less drying than foaming cleansers. If adding another cleanse leaves your skin dry or irritated, stop the extra cleansing step. Overwashing can damage the skin barrier, the protective outer layer of your skin. Ask a dermatologist before starting double cleansing if you have rosacea or eczema.12

An oil based cleanser can cause breakouts on acne prone skin, especially when used alone. If you have acne, look for products labelled "won't clog pores" or "noncomedogenic" and consider an oil free makeup remover instead. Stop using a product that is causing breakouts. If you cannot identify the culprit, a dermatologist can help you work out which cosmetics or skincare products are contributing.14