In the last two years we discovered that a swift cleanse of the face before you plant yourself on the bed isn’t nearly enough. Double cleansing has become the norm. Of course, you can choose how to go about your double cleansing ritual, but most experts recommend going in with a oil-based cleanser first and then with a water-based one. For the first cleanse, cleansing balms are an absolute favourite with skincare junkies and we can see why. They are a must-have for makeup lovers as there is quite literally no other gentler method of makeup removal out there.
FYI, you may not even have to ditch your ride or die face wash with the double cleanse method, but if you have overly sensitive skin (or overly dry skin), a cleansing balm can clean out your pores without being too harsh on your epidermal layer.
Most cleansing balms are made with hydrating and skin-loving ingredients, and some don’t even have to be washed off using water. The slap on and wipe off method works just as great, and your skin thirstily drinks in all the moisturising power without looking lifeless after two washes a day.
Swipe through to check out our top picks for the best cleansing balms out there –
A little goes a long way should’ve been the tagline for this product. Tiny dollops, long-lasting effects could be a second option. Elemis’ collagen cleansing balm plays its part perfectly as a balm, a makeup removing oil, and cleansing milk for deep hydration while throwing in some collagen-boosting action as well. With a 9-way blend of oils, this product is the perfect companion for all the dry skin girls out there. Not to mention, it lasts longer than most cleansers without you having to pick it up off the shelf time and again.
One of the first cleansing balms to grace the Indian subcontinent in retail and online stores, Clinique’s Take the Day Off cleansing balm goes above and beyond its required benefits. From the non-greasy texture to the lightweight application, and easy rinse/wipe-off, this balm does it all. Best for taking out makeup from pesky eye corners aided with a cotton ball, this product is a must-have for all emulsification freaks.
The blueberry + rioboos mix gives off immaculate summer vibes, so of course, that had to be our first reason to pick up this product. This one has a combination of antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, and boasts of smooth application and removal of deep-set insecurities (oops, I mean impurities), dirt, and makeup.
Enriched with rich and highly beneficial natural oils of argan and manuka, this formula uses sugar-based cleansers to wash clear off dirt and makeup off your face. It is designed to work in harmony with your skin's natural microbiome and helps strengthen the barrier.
5. Evolve Gentle Cleansing Melt
This balm to milk cleanser is a sure shot people pleaser. Massaging it into your skin for a good minute and a half (or two) makes your skin absorb all the hydrating goodness this product has to offer. Baobab and vanilla make your skin supple and smooth instantly post-application, so even if you need to go out post-cleanse, your skin is photo-ready.
An ELLE favourite for stubborn sensitive skin, this cleansing balm does the job without drying out your pores, and by soothing irritated skin with the help of natural actives. It whisks away any traces of makeup, sunscreen, or other foreign pollutants inhabiting your epidermal layer while diving deeper to nourish the inner layers of your skin.
Packed with the organic goodness, this product prepares your skin for a deep double cleanse by finding its way down to your most stubborn pore. It whisks away any unwanted residue by breaking down any grime that may have no place being on your skin. The white tea present in this cleansing balm is known to combat early signs of ageing and the sandalwood helps even out your skin tone.
Formulated with immortelle essential oil and vitamin E, this cult-fave is known for its luxe texture and a unique tendency to leave the skin luminous post cleansing. The subtle fragrance further enhances the relaxing daily cleansing ritual, keeping both you and your skin at ease.
Anti-ageing, hydrating, perfect for sensitive skin, rich in antioxidants, need we say more? Oh and filled to the brim with the goodness of matcha. Rich and creamy, this balm needs to be rinsed or wiped off thoroughly without leaving back any residue. The hefty dose of nourishment provided by using this once or twice a day, depending on skin type and the amount of makeup you use, can help transform your skin’s texture.
This sulphate-free formula comes with skin loving ingredients that won't strip your skin of all the moisture it needs. It also has Vitamin E and you know how the skin absolutely absorbs that. Added bonus is that it's vegan and of course, it takes off all your makeup in a jiffy.
Photos: Instagram
