What texture should a cleansing balm have?

Judge how it spreads and rinses

As general cleansing guidance, look for a texture that lets you move your fingertips gently over your face without scrubbing. Judge the balm during cleansing, not just in the jar, where it has very little to do. Whether a particular balm should be firm, soft, grainy or turn milky needs an answer specific to that product.2

Cleansing agents called surfactants help determine a cleanser's feel, lather and ease of rinsing. Their oil attracting part loosens oil and dirt, while their water attracting part lets that material wash away. Thickeners and other ingredients also affect texture, so thickness alone does not tell you how well a cleanser will spread or rinse.1

How to use it without scrubbing

1. 1Follow the balm's directions for the amount and whether to start with wet or dry skin.
2. 2Massage gently with your fingertips. Do not scrub to force makeup off.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, following any product instructions for adding water before rinsing.
4. 4If you are double cleansing to remove makeup, follow the balm with a gentle cleanser.
5. 5Gently pat your skin dry.

There is no universal wash time, so you do not need to keep massaging until a timer finishes. Cleansing time depends on the cleanser, skin type and activity level. A balm used for makeup removal fits into evening cleansing; remove makeup before bed.23

Do you need another cleanser afterwards?

A cleansing balm or oil cleanser can be the first step in removing makeup, followed by a gentle cleanser. Makeup removal is a reason to add a cleansing step, not an audition for the longest routine. If you do not wear makeup, double cleansing is not routinely needed and can make skin drier.3

If you prefer a nearly waterlike texture, micellar water is another makeup removal option. Heavy or waterproof makeup can still require an additional cleanser, so a lighter feel does not necessarily mean fewer steps.4

What should your skin feel like afterwards?

Dryness or irritation after washing is a reason to change to a gentler cleanser, not to scrub harder. Sensitive skin can sting during or just after cleansing. If your skin is dry or sensitive, washing with water in the morning and using cleanser only at night is an option. Avoid adding extra washes simply to chase a different afterfeel.13