Keep calm and use a balm
You know you take your skincare seriously and are officially an adult when you actually look forward to washing your face in the evenings. And when you enjoy washing your face, the best cleansing balms should most definitely be on your radar. They are one of the best cleansers you can have in your skincare wardrobe.
Cleansing balms can be used on most different skin types, so long as they are non-comedogenic, but they are arguably the best cleanser if your skin is on the drier side as they can be nice and nourishing to the skin.
'Cleansing balms, such as Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm, are great for dry skin types,' says London-based Consultant Dermatologist and the author of The Skincare Bible, Dr Anjali Mahto. 'Once massaged into the skin, they work to dislodge any make-up, pollution or sunscreen that is left on the skin.'
Similar to cleansing oil, cleansing balms are great at removing tough eye make-up, and usually go on to dry skin, before emulsifying with water and rinsing away as a milky residue. It's these excellent make-up removing properties that make them a great first step in your double cleansing routine.
'Double cleansing involves using a cleansing oil, balm or micellar water to break down make-up, SPF and sebum on the surface of your skin first, then following it with a deeper water-based cleanse,' explains Dr Anjali. 'This removes sweat, bacteria and old skin cells. A second round of cleansing will clean much deeper into the pores to remove any impurities.'
Some of the beauty market's most popular choices are the aforementioned Clinique, as well as the Emma Hardie and Elemis cleansing balms. Armed with a hot flannel, your skin will be left feeling clean and soft after cleansing, whichever you choose to buy.
Ready to shop for your new favourite cleanser? Keep scrolling for the Marie Claire edit of the best money can buy.
As recommended by Dr Anjali, Clinique's cleansing balm is fuss-free and does exactly what it says on the tin: takes off the day's grime, dirt and make-up without leaving a scrap of it behind.
One of the world's best-selling cleansing balms, Elemis's is something of a cult product across the globe. Packed with various plant and fruit oils, it's a rich balm with a relaxing aroma that'll keep you looking forward to that face-wash every evening.
Another cult classic, the rich Moringa Balm contains a nourishing cocktail of essential oils and leaves your face super soft and smooth. Be warned: the scent is addictive.
With its signature, slightly medicinal scent, Eve Lom's signature cleanser comes in a sturdy pot and gives you a really deep cleanse. Pair with a muslin cloth or flannel for best results.
A less dense balm than some of the cleansers on this list, this is designed to be your first cleanse to remove make-up and grime – hence the name, PreCleanse. It's a good'un.
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