There are many reasons to switch to the best cleansing balm instead of using harsher makeup removers like single-use makeup wipes (which are bad for the environment) or less thorough formulas such as micellar water. For starters, cleansing balms are better suited for dry skin types. “A balm is an effective option to remove dirt and oil without overly drying the skin,” says New York City-based dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.
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The same philosophy applies to cleansing oils but the choice of formula comes down to your preferences. Most cleansing balms emulsify into an oil as you massage them into your skin and add water. Cleansing balms are “a great first step for removing makeup [and sunscreen] before using a traditional cleanser to clean the pores out effectively,” explains board-certified dermatologist Arash Akhavan, MD, of the Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City. “Sometimes, for extremely dry skin such as with people suffering from eczema, a balm cleanser used alone may help prevent excessive drying for the patient.”
Application-wise, Mona Gohara, MD, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, previously recommended massaging cleansing balms “three times around the face with gentle pressure.” For some, this process is a welcome departure from the vigorous scrubbing of years past. After a thorough massage, splash on some warm or cool (never hot) water or wet a clean linen cloth to gently wipe away the product. Complete your double-cleansing routine with a water-based face wash, and you’ll notice how much cleaner and revived your skin looks.
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