What is Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are oil-based makeup removers that dissolve heavy makeup without stripping your skin.

Cleansing balms typically have a solid or buttery form which melts into an oil once warmed up on skin and emulsifies into a milky liquid once you add water.

This makes them especially effective for removing a full face of makeup and stubborn formulas like waterproof mascara and sunscreen.

The Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is our go-to balm. The rich balm melts into a luxurious oil when gently massaged into the skin, before transforming into a hydrating milk on contact with water.

As you massage the balm into a milky lather, the oils in the formula effectively melt away makeup and dirt to leave your skin feeling soft and bouncy.
With heavy makeup, you want to really remove it very well and still be gentle with your skin.

Most people have misconceptions about cleansing balms; if you are slightly oily, you might think ‘that's not for me.

The good news is that cleansing balms play well with all skin types: dry skin, normal skin, oily skin, and sensitive skin.

Balms are great for melting away heavy makeup (even waterproof formulas) or breaking down thickly applied SPF which is hard to shift.

Because they’re oil-based, they will also help to remove excess oil and oil-based impurities from skin.

Our Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm is a great option, as it is not only super cleansing thanks to our superhero algae Padina Pavonica, it is infused with English Rose Oleo Extract, for petal-soft skin.

Unlike surfactant-based cleansers (those which foam up), cleansing balms are non-irritating and won’t dry out your skin, compromise its moisture barrier, or disrupt its pH.

Our Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm, for example, is packed with a trio of nourishing plant oils, Elderberry, Optimega™ and Bee Friendly Starflower oil, to help keep skin hydrated and glowing, while removing impurities.

Since they’re packed with oils, balm cleansers are incredibly nourishing and moisturising, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth even after cleansing.

The Elemis Pro-Collagen Summer Bloom Cleansing Balm is one of these cleansing balms. It easily removes makeup and daily impurities whilst moisturisng and comforting your skin.

Unlike cleansing oils which tend to be thin and runny in texture (and can end up all down your arms and over your bathroom!), balm cleansers are much less messy, so product doesn’t get wasted. Plus, you only need a tiny amount.

1. With clean, dry hands, scoop out a small amount of balm and warm between your fingers.
2. Once you feel it starting to melt, apply to your dry face, and begin to gently massage in circular motions all over your face.
3. Massage for between 30 seconds to two minutes. If you have eye makeup on, lightly massage the eye area until the makeup starts to break down.
4. Wet a clean flannel with warm water and wring out the excess. Drape over your face and leave for a moment for the steam to open your pores. Take deep breaths and let the steam and scent of your cleansing balm relax you.
5. Use the flannel to wipe away the balm in gentle sweeping motions. If you’ve been wearing makeup, you may need to resoak and repeat this step.
6. If you’ve been wearing SPF or makeup, or if your skin is prone to oiliness and breakouts, remember to double cleanse, by following up with a non-oil based cleanser.
7. Once dry, you can move forward with the rest of your regimen. Not sure where to start?
8. We recommend using a face serum to target specific skin concerns, followed by your favorite eye cream and moisturizer.

To maximize the benefits of your cleansing balm and achieve a radiant, refreshed complexion, follow these tips and tricks for optimal results.

Determine the right frequency

Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may want to use it daily or only a few times per week.

Double cleanse for a thorough clean

To ensure your skin is free from makeup, impurities, and excess oil, incorporate a double cleansing method into your skincare routine.

If time permits, this extra step is good for people with oily skin, blemish-prone skin, or sensitive skin types who prefer to remove residual moisturizing oils.

Start with a cleansing balm to remove oil-based impurities and makeup. Our

For the follow up cleanser, we recommend either our probiotic Elemis Superfood Facial Wash or our skin smoothing Elemis Dynamic Resufacing Facial Wash.

Combine with other skincare products

For optimal results, use your cleansing balm in conjunction with other skincare products tailored to your skin type and concerns.

For example, follow your cleansing balm with a toner containing vitamin C, such as our Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads to brighten your complexion, and use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, such as our Pro-Collagen ULTRA SMART Night Genius, to lock in hydration.

Massage gently but thoroughly

When applying your cleansing balm, use gentle, circular motions to massage the product into your skin.

This will not only help dissolve makeup and impurities but also stimulate blood circulation, resulting in a more radiant complexion.

Take your time, especially when removing stubborn makeup like waterproof mascara, to ensure a thorough cleanse.

Customize your cleansing balm experience

Experiment with different cleansing balms to find the one that best suits your skin type and preferences.

Cleansing balms are a skincare game-changer, offering a unique and effective way to cleanse your skin.

By following these tips and tricks, you can optimize the benefits of using a cleansing balm in your skincare routine.

Remember that everyone's skin is unique, so it may take some experimentation to find the perfect combination of products and techniques.

With patience and consistency, you'll soon enjoy clean, radiant, and refreshed skin.