How to Use Cleansing Balm

After years of using an emulsifying cleansing oil, I finally switched to using a cleansing balm as part of a double cleanse last year and my skin has never been happier! Not only does it feel good on my skin, the double cleanse cleans my face better, so I have no need for a charcoal mask; it hydrates my skin without being too heavy; and it doubles as a quick moisturizing mask. So let’s talk about how to use cleansing balm, so you and your beautiful skin can be as happy as mine! SHOP MY FAVORITE HERE

How to Use Cleansing Balm

Washing your face is the most common “skincare routine” that people have. While it seems like a quick step to dismiss, it’s actually one of the most important parts of your skincare routine. Doing your cleansing step correctly to maximize the benefits is important and finding the right cleanser for YOUR skin is equally so.

You might think all cleansers are the same and can use whatever, but that’s just not the case. It’s possible that a cleansing balm is not for you, but you need to at least find the right ones for you. Here are a variety of the best natural face wash options out there that I personally recommend.

And here’s a basic guide on what a cleansing balm is and how to use cleansing balm best in the two most common methods for use – both of which I love. I’ll also share how to use this product as a hydrating mask (how I started using cleansing balms before I went all in)!

I think this product is the best cleansing balm. It’s made by one of my favorite clean skincare brands.

What is A Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are oil-based cleansers. The oil attaches to the makeup, dirt, grime, sweat, and product on your face! These thicker products are very hydrating, great for makeup removal, and ideal for deep cleansing.

Cleansing oils have an oil consistency, while a cleansing balm is thicker – as you can see in the pictures. It’s warmed and softened in your hands. I find cleansing balms to be much more hydrating than cleansing oils, but my skin also prefers to use them as part of a double cleanse.

Cleansing balms are a great first step to a double cleanse – using a balm followed by a facial bar soap (this is my favorite one). The balm is great at getting that initial layer of oil-based items off (e.g. makeup, sunscreen, and natural oils). Then the second cleanser can effectively get your pores and clean skin (not having to first get through all the other items). Regular double cleansing eliminates my need for charcoal masking, meaning it minimizes pore size without any extra face masks!!

My friends who really need that extra hydration, however, don’t do the double cleanse as regularly because they don’t want to remove any extra hydration.

Cleansing balms are appropriate for all skin types.

How do Cleansing Balms Work

Attracts Oil

Because cleansing balms are oil-based, they attach themselves to all the oils on your face, including products. This is best for sunscreen, makeup, and sweat. Because of this, you want to put the balm on dry skin. Only use the warm water after to rinse it off or it won’t work.

Moisturizes

And because cleansing balms are oil based cleansers, they don’t completely wash away with water thereby stripping the skin of natural oils. Warm water and circular motions (or a warm washcloth) will remove most of the balm and product you had on, leaving a light hydration that your skin will instantly love.

How to Use a Cleansing Balm

Step 1 – Apply

Put about a garbanzo bean size of cleansing balm on your hands. Rub product between your palms until it resembles an oil.

Rub palms and balm all over your face, including eyes – this shouldn’t irritate eyes and you can reopen them. Rub everywhere in circular motions until you’ve definitely cleaned everywhere.

Step 2 – Removal

There are two methods to remove cleansing balm. The first is to use warm water to rub off the cleansing balm and dirt (including makeup, SPF, etc.). It’s important to use warm water to emulsify the cleansing balm and get it off your face. Cold water won’t work and hot water will harm your precious skin.

The second method is to use a washcloth that’s wet with warm water. You’ll use the washcloth to emulsify and remove the balm and dirt. This is nice to use, but I find it hard to get the balm off the washcloths sometime, so you do you!

Step 3 – Double Cleanse (optional)

If you choose to do the double cleanse (I do every night), then you just want to remove some of the balm in step two with warm water. Then lather your hands up with a gel cleanser, cream cleanser, or facial bar. I swear by this gentle facial bar. It works beautifully and is far more cost-effective.

Then rinse off the second cleanse.

Step 5

After using a cleansing balm, you’ll just need to follow up with your regular skincare routine like a normal cleansing/face washing. If you’re wanting to learn more (or make sure you’re doing it right), here is a complete writeup of what order should I do my skincare.

How to Use a Cleansing Balm as a Face Mask

I mentioned before that I was averse to cleansing balms and didn’t even buy one until a friend told me she was using this one as a 5 minute moisture mask and loving it. As someone who periodically gets overwhelmed by dry skin (not that it’s a lot, it’s just frustrating), I soon bought it to try myself.

The truth is, any cleansing balm can be used as a moisturizing face mask. After you clean your face (with a cleansing balm, gel cleanser, or what have you), dry your face completely. Put a small amount (again about a garbanzo bean size) in your hand and rub all over your face. Let sit 5-10 minutes and rinse off with warm water or a warm washcloth. You’ll feel bit of hydration. Follow up with normal skincare routine.

Clean Skincare

I’m a bit of a clean skincare fanatic, but it’s been a lot of learning. If you want to make it easy? My Low Stress Guide to Low Tox Living has specific items swaps for everything from cleaning products to personal care items for men and women.

If you’re starting fresh on creating your routine, you’ll want to figure out what your skin type is. From there, it’s important to get the most out of your skincare routine. What order should I do my skincare? Here is my AM skincare routine but find what works best for you. A few places to get started…

What are Skin Toners For?
Benefits of Facial Serums
The Best Skin Brightening Products
Best Facial Oil
The Best Exfoliating Mask
Best Natural Retinol Options

The two brands I recommend the most for complete clean skincare are Crunchi and Counter. Read the first of my Crunchi reviews (as well as my Crunchi makeup review) and then discover the best Counter products.

Still unsure? Take this skincare quiz.