Cleansing balms have become increasingly popular thanks to their brilliantly deep-cleaning yet hydrating properties.

We get it—you probably already have a ride-or-die face wash. But hear us out: There are a few different reasons why you may want to consider introducing a cleansing balm into the mix. For starters, there are legit skincare wins. Made with hydrating ingredients—think butters, oils, and the like—cleansing balms are notably more moisturising than any other type of wash. They’re also an especially great choice for those with dry or sensitive prone skin.

And here’s the other great thing: Many of the cleansing balms out there don’t even require water. That’s right—it’s as simple as wipe on, wipe off. That not only leaves behind those hydrating benefits but also makes your skincare routine that much faster and easier.

What is a cleansing balm?

Cleansing balms tend to be much more hydrating and gentler on the skin than other cleansing formulations such as gels.

Made from a blend of oils, they transform upon application on the skin, helping to break down makeup, impurities and SPF without irritating the skin or making it feel uncomfortable.

They're perfect for sensitive, dry and dehydrated skin types as they are super luxurious and nourishing.

How do I use cleansing balms?

Cleansing balms need to be massaged into the skin for a minute or two, as this will help break down their oils so that all makeup and impurities are "grabbed". They're best paired with a warm cloth as this helps to remove all of the balm so no residue is left behind.

What does cleansing balm do? Can you use cleansing balm daily?

Before you choose your favourite cleansing balm from our guide below, Emma Hardie Director, Jane Foulston, has shared her tips on how to use a cleansing balm.

“Cleansing balms are very effective at dissolving heavy eye and face makeup as well as all traces of dirt that has built up throughout the day or night. Balms are suitable for both a morning or evening routine as well as either a first or second cleanse; they are very versatile. Many balms also contain nourishing ingredients such as Vitamin E and essential oils so they don’t strip the skin and leave it feeling tight in the same way that other types of cleansers might.

“When cleansing with a balm use the opportunity to practice some at-home facial massage and lift and sculpt your eye area, cheekbones and jawline. Support the skin with one hand and use a microfibre cloth to gently buff the skin, using short, linear strokes to work with the natural grain of your facial tissues. This will improve circulation and lymphatic drainage and encourage healthier and younger-looking skin.

Best Cleansing Balm For Glowing Skin:

Then I Met You, Living Cleansing Balm, £37

A rich, gorgeous balm that melts away all dirt and makeup. Apply to dry skin and massage, this is the ultimate first cleanse product. The texture? Think silky, soft sorbet that dissolves onto your skin. Rosemary and grapefruit make up the refreshing scent

It's crafted from a luxurious blend of lightweight plant oils including sea buckthorn oil (adored for its abundance of fatty acids such as stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and omega 6); olive oil (a nourishing antioxidant that boasts anti-inflammatory properties and supports your skin barrier); finally, grapeseed oil (an antioxidant-rich emollient that nourishes as it gently lifts impurities - cue round of applause).

It doesn't end with that holy trinity of oils though - it's also laced with persimmon extract to protect your skin from free radicals and promote a brighter tone, plus vitamin E to promote a healthy, youthful finish. We're so glad we met this formula...

Best Cleansing Balm For Hydration:

Chantecaille, Rose De Mai Cleansing Balm, £84

A silky Rose de Mai-infused cleansing balm that removes all traces of dirt, makeup, sunscreen and more. Antioxidant-rich rosehip and tamanu oils and soothing, hydrating raspberry stem cell extracts purify and replenish the skin while plant-based phytic acid gently exfoliates and a hyaluronic acid blend boosts moisture. Gentle and nourishing, the balm leaves skin fresh, hydrated and dewy.

Antioxidant-rich rosehip and tamanu oils and soothing, hydrating raspberry stem cell extracts purify and replenish the skin while plant-based phytic acid gently exfoliates and a hyaluronic acid blend boosts moisture. Gentle and nourishing, the balm leaves skin fresh, hydrated and dewy.

Best Cleansing Balm For a Budget:

The Inkey List, Oat Cleansing Balm, £9.99

This extremely gentle yet hardworking cleansing balm is made up of 3% oat kerel oil to help maintain skin moisture levels as well as helping to smooth and reduce blackheads while 1% oat powder helps to reduce redness and irritation.

Simply massage onto damp skin to soothe and balance skin. P.S - you can also apply this as a nourishing face mask by leaving it on to work its magic for 10 minutes.

Best Cleansing Balm For Stressed Skin:

Paula's Chpice, Omega + Complex Cleansing Balm, £25.99  

Crafted with stressed skin in mind, the Omega+ Complex Cleansing Balm thoroughly cleanses without disrupting your skin's barrier. Instead, it comforts irritated, sensitised skin with a barrier-restoring complex of fatty acids.

This triple-action cleansing balm is formulated with omegas 3, 6 and 9 to cleanse, soften and soothe your skin, all while rinsing completely clean (no greasy residue here!).

Made without fragrance - your skin has enough to deal with - this comforting cleanser harnesses a concentrated blend of coconut-derived fatty acids plus omega-rich jojoba and meadowfoam seed oil to prevent moisture loss during cleansing and leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated. It boasts a lush, soothing texture that effortlessly melts away impurities, sunscreen and make up without unnecessary friction or tug.