How to use Clinique cleansing balm

How to apply and rinse the balm

1. 1Apply the balm following your tub's directions, then gently massage with your fingertips to loosen makeup. Do not scrub or use a rough cloth.
2. 2Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can dry your skin.
3. 3If you need a second cleanse, leave your face damp and gently massage in a water based cleanser. Rinse again.
4. 4Pat dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing. Apply moisturizer if your skin feels dry or itchy, using a gentle touch around the eyes.

Do you need another cleanser afterwards?

Double cleansing can help remove makeup, particularly waterproof makeup and waterproof sunscreen. Most people do not need two cleansing steps every time they wash: one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is usually enough. Double cleansing uses two different cleanser types, not the same wash brought back for an encore.3

If you choose a second cleanser and have dry or sensitive skin, use a gentle, unscented formula; cream cleansers are less drying than foaming ones. General guidance also cautions that oil based cleansers can cause breakouts in acne prone skin, especially when used alone. Adding another cleanse is not automatically better, because overwashing can cause dryness and irritation.3

When should you use it, and for how long?

Evening is the practical time for a makeup removal cleanse. General face washing guidance is morning and night, plus after heavy sweating; that does not mean using a balm at every wash. For dry or sensitive skin, washing with water alone in the morning and using cleanser at night can be enough. If you wash only once a day, make it the evening.12

There is no universal massage time for face washing, so the bathroom does not need a stopwatch department. Treat the balm as a cleansing step rather than extending the massage to meet an arbitrary minute count.1

What if cleansing leaves your skin uncomfortable?

Stinging, redness, itching or swelling are reasons to stop using a cleanser that triggers them. Cleansers can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. If washing leaves your skin dry or irritated, switch to a gentler cleanser rather than washing harder. See a dermatologist if you have concerns about the reaction or your skin care.124

How do you use Clinique charcoal cleansing balm?

Use the charcoal tub's own application directions, then apply the general washing principles above: gentle fingertip massage and thorough rinsing. A second cleanser belongs after the balm if you choose to double cleanse, not before it.12