Top 5 Best Cleansing Balms 2025

Cleansing balms are all the rage recently, offering a gentle and powerful method for whisking away makeup, dirt, and impurities from your skin. Made mostly of oils, these balms break down and melt away makeup and grime, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed.

When it comes to choosing the best cleansing balm, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider your skin type. If you have oily skin, you may want to look for a balm that is lighter in texture and won’t leave a heavy residue. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a richer balm may be more beneficial.

Another important factor to consider is the ingredients. Look for balms that contain nourishing oils like jojoba, avocado, or sweet almond oil, as well as antioxidant-rich botanicals like green tea or chamomile.

After researching and testing various cleansing balms, we have identified the top options for different skin types and concerns. Whether you’re looking for a balm that can remove waterproof mascara or one that can soothe and hydrate dry skin, we’ve got you covered.

Best Cleansing Balms

We have researched and tested various cleansing balms to bring you the best ones available on Amazon. Cleansing balms are a great alternative to traditional cleansers as they are gentle on the skin and effectively remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. In this article, we have compiled a list of our top picks for the best cleansing balms that will leave your skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated.

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm

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If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that’s organic, gentle, and effective, the JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• With only 10 ingredients, this cleansing balm keeps things simple and straightforward.
• The balm rinses off easily, leaving no residue behind.
• The organic, non-irritating ingredients lend a fresh scent to the balm.

Cons

• Some users might find the scent too strong.
• The balm could be a bit thicker for those who prefer a more substantial texture.
• At 3 ounces, the jar might not last as long as some users would like.

We’ve been using the JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The balm has a light, creamy texture that melts easily into the skin, making it a breeze to apply. We appreciated the fresh, citrusy scent that the organic ingredients lent to the balm.

One of the things we liked most about this cleansing balm was how effectively it removed our makeup and other impurities. Even heavy, waterproof makeup was no match for the JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm. We also appreciated how easily the balm rinsed off, leaving no greasy or oily residue behind.

While we enjoyed the texture of the balm, some users might find it a bit too thin for their liking. Additionally, the scent might be too strong for those with sensitive noses. Finally, at 3 ounces, the jar might not last as long as some users would like.

Overall, we think the JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is a great option for those looking for a gentle, effective, and organic cleansing balm. If you’re in the market for a new cleansing balm, this one is definitely worth checking out.

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

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If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that will remove all of your makeup without stripping your skin, the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm is a great choice. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, which leave your skin feeling silky smooth and plumped with hydration.

Pros

• The cleansing balm easily removes makeup without stripping the skin.
• Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, leaving skin feeling plumped with hydration.
• Leaves skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated.

Cons

• Some users may not like the slight fragrance.
• It may not remove all waterproof makeup.
• The packaging may be difficult to use.

We were impressed with how easily the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm removed all of our makeup without leaving our skin feeling dry or tight. The balm melts into a luxurious oil and turns into a nourishing milk texture that rinses off clean. We also appreciated that it’s formulated with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides.

One thing to note is that it may not remove all waterproof makeup, so you may need to use a separate eye makeup remover if you wear waterproof mascara or eyeliner. Additionally, some users may not like the slight fragrance, although we found it pleasant. Finally, the packaging may be difficult to use, as the balm can get stuck in the cap.

Overall, we would recommend the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm for anyone looking for an affordable, effective cleansing balm that will leave their skin feeling hydrated and smooth.

CeraVe Cleansing Balm

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If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that effectively removes makeup and leaves your skin feeling clean and moisturized, then the CeraVe Cleansing Balm is worth considering.

Pros

• This cleansing balm is formulated with 3 essential ceramides and plant-based jojoba oil that help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, leaving your skin feeling nourished and soft after cleansing.
• It effectively removes the most long-lasting makeup, including waterproof mascara, without leaving a greasy residue on your skin.
• The hydrating formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, soap-free, allergy-tested, suitable for sensitive skin, and non-comedogenic so it won’t clog your pores.

Cons

• The smell of the product might take some getting used to.
• The jar size is small, making it less cost-effective in the long run.
• Some users might find the texture of the balm too oily.

After using the CeraVe Cleansing Balm, we noticed that our skin felt smooth, clean, and radiant. The balm effectively removed all traces of makeup, even stubborn waterproof mascara, without causing any irritation or redness.

One of the standout features of this cleansing balm is its hydrating formula that helps retain skin moisture as you cleanse. The plant-based jojoba oil and essential ceramides work together to leave your skin feeling nourished and soft, making it a great option for those with dry or sensitive skin.

The CeraVe Cleansing Balm is also free of parabens, fragrances, and alcohol, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. It’s easy to rinse off and doesn’t leave any residue on your skin, which is a plus for those who prefer a non-greasy feel.

Overall, we would recommend the CeraVe Cleansing Balm to anyone looking for a gentle yet effective makeup remover that also moisturizes and nourishes the skin.

The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm

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If you’re looking for a gentle and effective cleansing balm, The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm is a great option.

Pros

• Melts away makeup and impurities without drying out skin
• Gentle, yet effective
• Formulated with powerful ingredients that deliver real results

Cons

• May leave a film on oily skin
• Some users have reported difficulty getting product out of the tube
• May not be suitable for those who prefer scented products

We love using this cleansing balm as the first step in our double cleanse routine. It effectively removes makeup, SPF, and other impurities without stripping our skin of its natural oils. The oat kernel oil and colloidal oatmeal in the formula help to hydrate and soothe the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive or irritated skin.

To use, simply massage a raspberry-sized amount of the cleansing balm onto dampened face and neck, then rinse thoroughly. We also love using this balm as a shaving balm in the shower or as a 10-minute nourishing facial mask.

Overall, if you’re looking for a gentle and effective cleansing balm that delivers real results, The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm is definitely worth trying out.

Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm

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If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that will remove all traces of makeup and impurities while nourishing your skin, Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm is a great choice.

Pros

• The sorbet-like texture of the balm makes it easy to apply and massage into the skin, effectively removing all traces of makeup and impurities.
• The nutrient-rich formula, which includes Seaberry oil, persimmon extract, olive oil, and vitamin E, helps to soften and protect the skin while cleansing it.
• The balm has won several awards, including the Allure Best of Beauty Award, Byrdie Skincare Award, and Soko Glam Best of K-Beauty Award.

Cons

• The citrus fragrance of the balm may not be to everyone’s liking.
• The balm is on the pricier side compared to some other cleansing balms on the market.
• The formula may not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin.

We’ve been using Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with how well it removes makeup and impurities without leaving our skin feeling stripped or dry. The sorbet-like texture of the balm makes it easy to apply and massage into the skin, and it emulsifies nicely with warm water to rinse away all traces of dirt and makeup.

One of the standout features of this cleansing balm is its nutrient-rich formula, which includes Seaberry oil, persimmon extract, olive oil, and vitamin E. These ingredients work together to soften and protect the skin while cleansing it, leaving it feeling nourished and moisturized.

While the citrus fragrance of the balm may not be to everyone’s liking, we found it to be refreshing and pleasant. The balm has won several awards, including the Allure Best of Beauty Award, Byrdie Skincare Award, and Soko Glam Best of K-Beauty Award, which is a testament to its effectiveness and popularity among skincare enthusiasts.

Overall, we think Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm is a great choice for anyone looking for a cleansing balm that effectively removes makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin. However, it may not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin or for those looking for a more affordable option.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best cleansing balm, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Ingredients

One of the most important things to look for in a cleansing balm is a list of high-quality ingredients. Some common ingredients in cleansing balms include oils like coconut or jojoba, as well as emulsifiers and surfactants that help break down makeup and impurities. Look for products that use natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals.

Skin Type

Different cleansing balms are formulated for different skin types, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. If you have dry skin, look for a balm that is moisturizing and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for a balm that is lightweight and won’t clog your pores.

Texture

The texture of a cleansing balm can also make a big difference in how well it works for you. Some balms are thicker and more oily, while others are lighter and more gel-like. Consider your personal preferences and skin type when choosing a texture that will work best for you.

Packaging

Finally, consider the packaging of the cleansing balm you choose. Some balms come in jars, while others are packaged in tubes or pump bottles. Think about how you’ll be using the product and what will be most convenient for you.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a cleansing balm that works best for your skin type and personal preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cleansing balms are recommended for oily skin types?

When it comes to oily skin, it’s important to choose a cleansing balm that is lightweight and non-greasy. Look for balms that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help regulate oil production and prevent breakouts. Some recommended cleansing balms for oily skin include the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm and the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm.

What are the top cleansing balms suitable for mature skin?

Mature skin requires a gentle yet effective cleansing balm that can remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Look for balms that contain nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E, jojoba oil, or rosehip oil. Some recommended cleansing balms for mature skin include the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm and the Sunday Riley Blue Moon Clean Rinse Cleansing Balm.

How do cleansing balms benefit dry skin, and which are the best?

Cleansing balms are a great option for dry skin because they provide a deep cleanse while also hydrating and nourishing the skin. Look for balms that contain ingredients such as shea butter or coconut oil, which can help soothe and moisturize dry skin. Some recommended cleansing balms for dry skin include the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm and the Heimish All Clean Balm.

What are the most effective drugstore cleansing balms?

Drugstore cleansing balms can be just as effective as their high-end counterparts. Look for balms that contain simple yet effective ingredients such as coconut oil or shea butter. Some recommended drugstore cleansing balms include the Pond’s Cold Cream Cleansing Balm and the Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil.

Which cleansing balms are best for acne-prone skin?

Acne-prone skin requires a cleansing balm that can remove impurities without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Look for balms that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Some recommended cleansing balms for acne-prone skin include the Dermalogica Precleanse Balm and the Neutrogena Ultra Light Cleansing Oil.

Can individuals with sensitive skin use cleansing balms, and which are recommended?

Individuals with sensitive skin can use cleansing balms, but it’s important to choose a balm that is gentle and free of harsh ingredients such as fragrances or essential oils. Look for balms that contain soothing ingredients such as chamomile or aloe vera. Some recommended cleansing balms for sensitive skin include the Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser and the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer.

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