Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm: how to use it

What is a cleansing balm for?

Cleansing balms and oil based cleansers are used first in a double cleanse to help remove makeup particles. An oil based first cleanse also helps loosen sunscreen residue and excess skin oil. The job is removing what you wore during the day, not turning the bathroom sink into a product launch. Cleansers use surfactants, ingredients that loosen oily dirt and allow it to wash away with water.123

How do you use it?

Follow the directions on your jar for the amount, whether to start on dry skin, and use around the eyes. The sequence below is general cleansing balm guidance, not a substitute for those product directions.1

1. 1Gently massage the balm into your skin with your fingertips to loosen makeup and sunscreen residue. Avoid scrubbing.
2. 2Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Hot water can dry your skin.
3. 3If you are double cleansing, leave your face damp and gently apply a water based cleanser.
4. 4Rinse again, then pat your face dry with a soft towel.
5. 5Apply your skin medication or treatment after cleansing, followed by moisturizer.

How often should you use a balm?

Evening is the practical time for makeup removal: remove makeup before bed. Most people should wash their face in the morning and evening, but that does not mean using a balm twice daily. For dry or sensitive skin, a morning rinse with water and cleanser only at night is an option. If you wash just once daily, choose the evening.14

There is no universal rule that a face wash must last 60 seconds. Washing time depends on the cleanser, skin type and activity level. Do not turn a social media timer into an instruction to keep massaging sensitive skin.1

Do you need a second cleanser?

Consider a second cleanser when removing makeup, especially waterproof makeup or waterproof sunscreen. For most people, one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is enough. If you do not wear makeup, adding another wash can add dryness without a useful reason.12

For dry or sensitive skin, choose a gentle, unscented water based cleanser for the second step. Cream cleansers are less drying than foaming cleansers. Avoid harsh or excessively drying formulas regardless of skin type.2

Who should be careful?

Clinique describes its formulas as allergy tested and 100% fragrance free. Sensitive skin can still sting during or after cleansing, and cleanser ingredients can cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis, an itchy skin reaction. Repeated washing can remove protective surface oils and leave skin excessively dry. If cleansing leaves your skin dry or irritated, switch to a gentler cleanser rather than washing harder.136

If you have acne, an oil based cleanser can cause breakouts, particularly when used alone. Look for products labelled oil free, noncomedogenic or won't clog pores; do not assume that a makeup remover meets those criteria. An oil free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser is an alternative. If new breakouts persist and the responsible product is unclear, a dermatologist can help identify the cause.24