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As the warm weather makes its sporadic appearance amidst the rain and spring’s emotional rollercoaster, I find myself lightening my skincare and makeup routine, moving away from “full glam survival mode.” Heavy foundations? No longer necessary. Thick creams? They’re out too. there’s one area where I actually increase the intensity in the summer—my cleanser. Specifically, I introduce a cleansing balm into my regimen.
I understand how it may seem counterintuitive. Why would I apply a product that resembles butter on my face when the temperature is soaring to 30 degrees with humidity that feels like a sauna? The answer lies in my skincare needs during summer. This season brings a significant increase in sunscreen application, waterproof mascara, sweat-resistant makeup, and products that cling to the skin like an unwanted relationship. My usual cleanser often falls short, while a cleansing balm effectively removes everything in mere moments, almost like performing a magic trick.
A cleansing balm starts as a solid balm or wax that transforms into a luxurious oil when massaged into the skin. It effectively dissolves makeup, SPF, oil, and dirt without stripping the skin or leaving it feeling like it has been washed with dish soap and regret. Once you start using a cleansing balm, the days of aggressively scrubbing your eyes with a makeup wipe feel very much like a thing of the past!
There are several compelling reasons why cleansing balms should take center stage in your skincare routine:
- Effortless Makeup & SPF Removal – Long-lasting foundation? Waterproof mascara? Sunscreen that claims to withstand a tropical storm? A cleansing balm can dissolve all of it without the need for vigorous scrubbing, making the process easy and effective.
- Hydrating Instead of Harsh – Unlike foaming cleansers that can leave your skin feeling tight and uncomfortable, balms are enriched with nourishing oils and butters that enhance your skin barrier instead of compromising it.
- Deep Cleansing Without the Hassle – It may sound unusual, but oil-based cleansers assist in lifting excess oil and impurities from pores. Essentially, it’s a case of fighting oil with oil. The science behind it is both fascinating and effective.
- Ideal for Sensitive Skin – Cleansing balms offer a gentle approach with no harsh rubbing, stinging, or redness that leaves you wondering why your face suddenly resembles a tomato. They are typically very soothing and kind to the skin.
- Travel-Friendly – Unlike cleansing oils, these balms won’t leak all over your suitcase, preventing your vacation wardrobe from becoming coated in expensive skincare goop. We appreciate a reliable product!
After conducting thorough testing, I have narrowed down my top four favorite cleansing balms:
Grace & Stella F Balm, This Works! Cleansing Balm – 125ml – $39
This cleansing balm transforms the often tedious makeup removal process into a delightful spa-like experience. It melts away stubborn makeup, waterproof mascara, sunscreen, oil, and dirt without demanding intense scrubbing. The formula is vegan, free of parabens and sulfates, and compared to makeup wipes, it doesn’t feel like you’re exfoliating your face with coarse sandpaper. Plus, it includes a spatula for application, adding a touch of luxury and preventing you from having to dig into the jar with your fingers. And I must say, the name is simply fantastic!
Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm – 88ml – $33.99
This cleansing balm boasts a delightful sorbet-like texture that feels incredible on the skin. Infused with purple ginseng, nourishing oils, and plant-based esters, it effectively melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while remaining lightweight and refreshing. It emulsifies beautifully with water, leaving the skin soft rather than greasy—an essential trait, as no one wants to feel like a buttered dinner roll before bedtime.
Trinny London Be Your Best Enzyme Balm Cleanser – 80ml – $67, 80ml refill – $55, 19.5ml mini – $28
This cleanser feels like a luxurious skincare experience. Not only does it remove makeup, SPF, and pollution, but it also includes pineapple enzyme for gentle exfoliation, along with nourishing oils and a prebiotic complex to support the skin’s microbiome. This impressive formulation makes your cleanse feel like a wellness retreat for your skin. I appreciate the refillable option, allowing me to be both eco-friendly and beauty-conscious!
Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm – 200ml – $92, 100ml – $52, 30ml – $25
This cleansing balm has achieved near cult status for a reason. The sorbet-like formula melts into the skin, effortlessly removing layers of sunscreen and waterproof mascara without leaving any residue or greasy film. Enriched with sunflower oil, papaya extract, and antioxidant-rich greens, it leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and rejuvenated, rather than stripped and irritated. Having soft, clean skin gives me a sense of control in my life, even when there are crumbs in my bed. If you’re sensitive to scents, it also comes in a fragrance-free version!
I typically follow the cleansing balm with a light gel or foaming cleanser or a micellar water, creating a double cleansing routine. Is this step necessary for everyone? Perhaps not. when the heat intensifies and I layer sunscreen like I’m preparing for battle, I enjoy the added freshness that comes from double cleansing. It gives me the satisfaction of feeling like I have a proper skincare routine rather than just applying products half-asleep while watching reality TV, which I would never do, of course!
Cleansing balms have truly secured their place in my heart—and my summer skincare routine. They effortlessly remove sunscreen, sweat, waterproof makeup, and the questionable choices of the day without leaving my face dry or irritated. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a full face of makeup dissolve in seconds, almost like a tiny skincare miracle. If summer insists on making me sticky, sweaty, and shiny, the least it can do is allow me to wash it all away with ease!
– Lisamarie –
