What if we told you there’s a multipurpose skincare product out there that you’ve probably not tried so far? We’re talking about beauty balms. Also referred to as facial balms or skin balms, beauty balms shouldn’t be confused with blemish balms or BB creams, though they share the same ‘BB’ acronym. In fact, beauty balms, in all its various forms, have been around for centuries and have been used to moisturise, nourish, protect and bring out the skin’s natural luminance.
Let’s take a look at what these are and how they work for the skin…
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What are Beauty Balms?
Called ‘balms’ because of their balm-like textures, beauty balms are rich, multitasking moisturisers and are formulated to be intensely nourishing to the skin. Unlike gel moisturisers that are water-based, these usually contain skin-loving oils in a thicker, more luxurious consistency. We know what you’re thinking but thanks to advancements in skincare and formulations, there are non-comedogenic beauty balms available in the market. These get absorbed into the skin easily without leaving any greasy residue.
These are multi-purpose products that can be used as moisturisers, face massage balms, primers, for facial skin but also cuticles, hair, etc. They can be used as face masks, for healing dry skin, overnight face packs, to heal sunburns, as cleansers to melt away makeup, dirt, and grime, and more. Such beauty balms are especially nourishing for very dry skin or for areas on the body that sometimes need extra attention like the feet, knees and elbows. These are also great for massaging into the skin and relaxing in that moment of self-care.
Beauty balms also fit well into the slow beauty movement, which encourages people to take a more thoughtful, mindful approach towards skincare and their skincare routines, to achieve sustainable, long-term results using fewer products, rather than looking for overnight or immediate results. This is because beauty balms promote healing of the skin, and over time strengthen the barrier and boost overall skin health.
Take a look at some of our picks of beauty balms…
Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm
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This award-winning multipurpose balm with organic wild rosehip seed oil and other plant oils is intensely nourishing and helps enhance skin radiance. A one-pot wonder, it can be used as a moisturiser, face mask, a cleansing balm, cuticle softener, for chapped lips or dehydrated skin, etc. and skin is left soft and supple with a natural glow. It also comes with a 100% organic finely woven muslin face cloth which can be dipped in warm water, squeezed out and placed on the face over the balm for a quick five-minute facial!
Forest Essentials Ojas Illuminating Night Beauty Balm
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A lightweight, hydrating Ayurvedic serum balm, this is formulated with precious herbs sourced from South India. Made with an intricate process, this silken night beauty balm works as an activator, to enhance the properties of your nourishing night cream while repairing and restoring the skin’s natural glow. It leaves the skin looking visibly energised with a youthful appearance. Simply apply a thin layer of the balm on the face and gently press into the skin, prior to a nourishing night cream.
Gisou Honey Infused Beauty Balm
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This oil-balm blend with 99% natural ingredients melts on the skin like honey. Packed with a botanical-rich active blend, a proprietary Mirsalehi Bee Garden Oil Blend and the brand’s signature Mirsalehi Honey, this absorbs into the skin to instantly reveal a softer, smoother, more supple complexion. It is lightweight and non-greasy, so can be applied locally to dry, chapped skin or onto cheekbones, eyelids or the bridge of your nose to leave behind a subtle glow.
You can also swipe a bead-sized amount through your hair to tame flyaways, or swipe onto brows to fluff and shape them into place. Talk about being multifunctional!
MAC Cosmetics’ Hyper Real Skincanvas Balm Moisturizing Cream
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This new lightweight, fast-absorbing cream strengthens and protects the skin barrier for overall healthier-looking skin. It soothes and prevents against visible irritation, and moisturises for up to 24 hours. It is powered by rare Japanese peony extract, 2.5% niacinamide, plumping hyaluronic acid, and restorative ceramides to deliver immediate and long-lasting results. Additionally, mango and avocado butters help skin feel soft, nourished and conditioned. It can be worn by itself or underneath makeup for a perfectly prepped, makeup-ready complexion.
SoulTree Advanced Kumkumadi Refined Radiance Facial Balm
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Infused with 100% organic mogra saffron and blended with 27 other precious therapeutic herbs, this nourishing face massage balm gently glides on the skin and over time, rehydrates and rebalances your skin, and restores the skin’s natural luminous glow. Use it over your serum and gently massage it into the face and neck in upward strokes until fully absorbed. You can also massage your Marma points with a Kansa Wand as the luxurious balm gently glides on the skin and penetrates deep within the skin.
Lastly, use a hot towel to open your pores and for instant radiance. This weekly ritual balm effectively reduces pigmentation, scars, dark spots, blemishes, uneven skin tone and dry skin.
Wishful Honey Balm Jelly Moisturiser
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A potent blend of honey, turmeric, and niacinamide come together in this luxuriously textured crème balm moisturiser that helps boost skin luminosity, minimise pores and even out skin tone for a radiant and smooth complexion. The lavender-tinted pearls lend a visible glow, and a dewy, glassy skin feel, while lavender oil creates a relaxing and calming moment to enhance your self-care routine Honey Balm is non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, and suitable for all skin types. It hydrates and locks in moisture for up to 24 hours.
