Ever since I dipped my toes into the world of makeup, I’ve been all about the waterproof stuff.
But here’s the kicker – waterproof makeup clings to your skin like an ex who just won’t let go.
So, being the curious beauty explorer I am, I turned to TikTok for makeup removal wisdom (yes, I believe in TikTok because when in doubt, TikTok it out, right?).
I’ll be honest, makeup wipes, and I didn’t click. They felt rough on my skin and were a nightmare for my eyes.
Micellar water left me with a gritty, oily sensation – not the post-makeup radiance I desired.
And my regular cleansers? They took ages to work.
Then, one day, I took a leap of faith and tried makeup remover balms. And let me tell you, I am happy I did!
These balms effortlessly dissolve makeup, dirt, SPF, sweat, excess oils, and daily grime.
So today, I’ll spill the beans on my trusted makeup remover balms, giving you the lowdown on everything, including their pros, cons, and ratings.
Makeup Remover Balm – My Top Picks
| Product | Skin Type | Active Ingredients | Price |
| Juno & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm | All Skin Types | Japanese pearl barley, orange peel oil | $14.99 |
| Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm | All Skin Types | Vitamin E | $9.14 |
| Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm | All Skin Types | Elderberry and starflower oils | $68 |
| Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm | All Skin Types | Grapeseed oil, sea buckthorn oil | $38 |
| Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original | Oily, Dry, and Sensitive Skin | Active botanicals, Vitamin E and Vitamin C | $19 |
| Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm | Dry and Sensitive Skin | Vitamin E, jojoba oil, avocado oil | $17.97 |
| Milk Makeup Hydro Ungrip Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm | All Skin Types | Cannabis seed extract, hyaluronic acid, and aloe | $36 |
| Innisfree Pore Clearing Volcanic Cleansing Balm | All Skin Types | Jeju volcanic clusters | $10 |
Now that you know my top picks, let’s review each of these makeup remover balms in detail.
Juno & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm
| What I Like | What I Don’t Like |
| Leaves skin hydrated | Fragranced |
| Has skin loving ingredients | Comes in a small packaging |
| Removes makeup, dirt, and pollution effectively |
This makeup remover balm is a personal favorite for removing makeup.
It’s a real game-changer for me, not just for taking off makeup but also for giving my skin that post-spa glow.
So, what’s the magic ingredient?
Japanese pearl barley. It’s like a moisture booster and a brightening champ rolled into one.
This formula works like a charm, effortlessly melting away even the most stubborn makeup and SPF, all without leaving my skin feeling stripped.
Now, what sets it apart from the crowd?
Well, most makeup remover balms swing to one extreme or the other.
Some are so thick and oily that they’re a real chore to rinse off, while others are so lightweight that they don’t feel like doing much.
But this one? It strikes that perfect balance, staying just the right consistency to work its magic.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are a couple of things to note.
First, it’s scented with a lovely citrus-like fragrance (which I enjoy), but I get it – scents aren’t for everyone.
Second, I wish it came in a bigger package because I use it daily, even on makeup-free days.
My Ratings
Consistency 5/5 | Oiliness 5/5 | Ingredients 5/5 | Texture 5/5 | Price 4/5
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| Makes your skin soft and plump | Struggles at removing waterproof mascara and eyeliner |
| Affordable option | Slimy consistency |
| Good for oily skin as it removes excess oil |
Looking for an affordable makeup remover balm? Try this one.
At first glance, it might seem like your typical creamy lotion, but as soon as you apply it to your face, it transforms into a silky oil.
Honestly, it has that slightly “slimy” feel, but once you get the hang of it, you might just become a fan.
This balm boasts a lightweight, velvety texture and packs a punch with some vitamin E goodness to nourish your skin while it goes to town on your makeup and daily grime.
Now, don’t be fooled by the oiliness – this balm is a champ at zapping excess oil without leaving your skin dry or tight.
The catch?
I slightly gripe about its performance on my stubborn mascara and eyeliner. It took a couple of applications, about two to three times, to get rid of them completely.
Ratings
Consistency 4/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 5/5 | Texture 4/5 | Price 5/5
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| Incredible soft, creamy texture | Expensive as compared to other options |
| Removes waterproof makeup easily | |
| Leaves skin hydrated |
This makeup remover is like a fusion of a solid balm and a creamy dream, and it’s a total rockstar in the beauty community.
What’s the secret?
Well, it has a unique blend of nine different hydrating oils that ensure your skin doesn’t feel like a desert after using it.
So, I put it to the test one day when I had my favorite Fit Me Foundation, sunscreen, and mascara on.
And let me tell you, this Elemis balm didn’t break a sweat.
It effortlessly wiped away my sunscreen and even tackled waterproof makeup like a pro.
The best part? It’s not overly oily, won’t crumble on you, and has no exfoliating acids lurking in there.
Ratings
Consistency 4.5/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 4.5/5 | Texture 5/5 | Price 3.5/5
Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| Melts away long-wearing water-proof makeup | Expensive as compared to the drugstore options |
| Made with skin loving ingredients | |
| Winner of many beauty awards |
This makeup remover balm has won many beauty awards for its texture, smell, and effectiveness.
What’s the secret sauce, you ask?
Well, it’s got emollient grapeseed oil that’s like a superhero against oil-based impurities, and the best part is, it’s not greasy at all.
But that’s not all. It’s also packed with sea buckthorn oil, which adds a burst of sunshine-like yellow to the balm and brings some serious hydration to the party.
Applying it is a breeze, and when put to the test on a full-blown wedding glam look, it didn’t disappoint.
It wiped away all my makeup like a pro (including my waterproof mascara).
Ratings
Consistency 5/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 4.5/5 | Texture 4/5 | Price 3/5
Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original
| Pros | Cons |
| Leaves skin feeling balanced | Packaging is extremely bulky so not great for traveling. |
| Non comedogenic and gentle for all skin types | |
| A 3-in-1 product: Exfoliates, Hydrates, and Cleanses |
If you’ve been following my previous blog posts, you probably know I’m a big fan of Korean skincare.
So, of course, I had to include a Korean gem on my list of best makeup remover balms.
Enter the Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm – a true K-beauty essential. This balm is practically a skincare celebrity, loved by skincare enthusiasts everywhere.
It comes in different versions like Clarifying, Nourishing, Original, Purifying, and Revitalizing, so you can pick the one that suits your skincare needs best.
But here’s the real magic: It’s like a triple threat. This balm removes makeup and exfoliates, hydrates, and cleanses – all in one go.
It blends soothing flower, root, and fruit extracts, featuring goodies like Barbados cherry, safflower, and more.
Now, what are the drawbacks?
If you have dehydrated skin, you might find it a smidge drying. It’s essential to keep your skin type in mind.
And then there’s the packaging – it’s on the bulkier side, which isn’t the best when you’re on the go or traveling light.
Ratings
Consistency 5/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 5/5 | Texture 4.5/5 | Price 3.5/5
Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| Leaves skin hydrated and glowing | Not good for oily skin due to its oily texture |
| Best for dry and sensitive skin | |
| Great price for quality |
If you’ve got dry skin and need a makeup remover balm, give Versed Balm a shot.
It’s packed with goodies like jojoba, avocado oil, and vitamin E, making it friendly to dry, sensitive skin.
Now, let me give you the lowdown on this stuff. The texture is slightly different—it goes on practically invisible, not all foamy like others.
After you wash it off, a hint of oiliness sticks around, so you might wonder if you got it all off.
Oh, and here’s the kicker: It’s got a pretty strong fragrance, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
On the flip side, this balm is an absolute hydration powerhouse.
You only need a tiny dab to clean your whole face, so that tub is gonna last you a good while.
Ratings
Consistency 4/5 | Oiliness 3.5/5 | Ingredients 4/5 | Texture 4/5 | Price 5/5
Milk Makeup Hydro Ungrip Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| 85% natural cleansing balm | Expensive option |
| Melts away stubborn makeup, dirt, and impurities | |
| A little goes a long way |
Milk Makeup has made quite a name for itself with its Hydro Grip collection, and you’ve probably seen TikTokers raving about the Hydro Grip Primer.
But here’s the deal – they’ve got some more cult-favorite products up their sleeve.
Let me break it down for you: While Hydro Grip works its magic to make your makeup stay put all day, there’s another gem in their lineup.
It’s called Hydro Ungrip Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm, and it’s like a superhero for taking off even the toughest makeup, grime, and SPF, leaving your skin fresh before bedtime.
So, what’s the secret sauce?
It’s all about that hemp-derived cannabis seed extract, hyaluronic acid, and aloe. In simpler terms, it’s a product that knows how to get the job done right.
Ratings
Consistency 4.5/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 4/5 | Texture 5/5 | Price 3/5
Innisfree Pore Clearing Volcanic Cleansing Balm
| Pros | Cons |
| Leaves skin feeling balanced | Uneven texture |
| Small amount is enough to cover a wide area | Doesn’t remover waterproof makeup effectively |
| Helps in reducing skin redness |
If you’re new to makeup remover balms and curious if they’ll suit you, I’d recommend giving this option a shot.
It’s only $10, so it won’t break the bank, and it contains volcanic clusters that soak up excess oil and impurities.
Now, I did notice some tiny clumps in there but don’t worry, they disappeared when I applied them.
I really like how effortlessly it melts my makeup and leaves my skin feeling soothed and balanced.
It’s actually for oily skin, but I found it works great for all skin types.
The only minor downside?
Products like mascara require extra effort to remove.
Ratings
Consistency 4/5 | Oiliness 4/5 | Ingredients 5/5 | Texture 4/5 | Price 5/5
Why use a makeup remover balm instead of a regular makeup remover?
Why should you consider using makeup remover balms? Well, here’s the scoop:
Superb Cleansing
These balms are like the Houdinis of makeup removal.
They effortlessly melt away even the toughest makeup, including those stubborn waterproof products and thick layers of SPF.
They’re like little oil detectives, sweeping away excess oils and oil-based nasties from your skin.
Mega Moisture
Brace yourself for a dose of serious hydration. Thanks to their oil-rich formula, these balmy cleansers are like a spa treatment for your skin.
Post-cleansing, your skin feels as soft and smooth as silk sheets.
Gentle Soul
Makeup remover balms are like the gentle giants of skincare. Unlike those foamy cleansers that can be a bit rough, these balms won’t pick a fight with your skin.
They’re non-irritating, won’t dry you out, mess with your skin’s moisture balance, or throw off pH levels.
Plus, they’re perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive ones.
No More Mess
Ever dealt with cleansing oils that seem to have a mind of their own, dripping everywhere?
Well, balms are the opposite of that chaos.
They’re neat and easy to handle, and you only need a bit to work their magic. No product wastage, no fuss.
So, whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or just want a fuss-free way to cleanse, these balms have your back.
How to use makeup remover balms?
Wondering how to make the most of your makeup remover balm? It’s as easy as a mini spa session right at home.
Here’s how to use a makeup remover balm:
- Start with clean, dry hands. Scoop some of that balm and warm it up by rubbing it between your fingers.
- Once it starts to melt a bit, go ahead and apply it to your dry face. Start giving your face some love with gentle circular motions.
- Spend quality time massaging, ideally 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re wearing eye makeup, give your peepers some attention until that makeup breaks down.
- Now, it’s spa time! Grab a clean flannel, wet it with warm water, and wring out the excess. Lay it gently over your face and chill for a moment. Let that steam work its magic, open up your pores, and take some deep breaths to soak in the relaxing scent of your balm.
- When ready, use the flannel to wipe away the balm with soft, sweeping motions. You might need to give it a second round if you’ve gone all out with makeup.
- If you’re sporting SPF or makeup or have skin prone to getting oily or breaking out, remember to follow up with a non-oil-based cleanser to ensure you’ve got all the gunk out. Double cleansing for the win!
And that’s how I clean my waterproof makeup. I always double cleanse and recommend you do the same because some products – like waterproof mascara, are hard to get off with a single wash.
What to consider when buying a makeup remover balm?
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect makeup remover balm, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Price
Let’s talk bucks. There’s a misconception that you must splash out big bucks for a top-notch cleansing balm.
But here’s the inside scoop: some of the best ones won’t break the bank.
There’s a wide range of effective options, from drugstore brands to high-end skincare.
The price tag doesn’t necessarily tell you the whole story – it’s all about what’s inside the jar.
Ingredients
Look for balms loaded with nourishing and moisturizing ingredients.
Think jojoba oil, argan oil, avocado oil, sunflower oil, grape seed oil, and almond oil – these are superheroes for your skin.
Now, what to avoid?
Steer clear of makeup remover balms with heavy fragrances – they can be irritating, especially around the eyes.
Watch out for lanolin and coconut oil, which can clog your pores.
Oh, and watch for alcohol on that ingredient list – it’s a bit of a red flag.
Skin Type
Remember, your skin is as unique as you are. So, consider your skin type when choosing a balm.
If you’re prone to things like rosacea eczema or have sensitive skin, avoiding certain ingredients is smart (check out the ones I mentioned earlier).
Sensitivity champs should stick to fragrance-free balms to dodge any irritation or breakouts.
And if you’ve got oily or acne-prone skin, consider skipping heavy oils like coconut or flaxseed oil and shea butter.
So, when you’re hunting for your next makeup remover balm, keep these factors on your beauty radar.
Wrapping Up
So, these were the best makeup remover balms that I tried and tested.
All these balms are your best buddies in saying goodbye to makeup, dirt, and all the city grime without robbing your skin of its natural glow.
They’re gentle on your skin, leaving it feeling as soft as a cloud.
But remember that makeup remover balms can be a tad oily. So, after you’ve worked your magic with the balm, don’t forget to follow up with a facial cleanser.
That way, you’ll ensure that your face is squeaky clean, and there won’t be a hint of greasy residue left behind.
Now, when you’re on the hunt for the perfect makeup remover, keep a few things in mind – price, ingredients, and what your skin type craves.
After all, we all have unique needs when it comes to skincare.
So, I’m curious – what’s your go-to makeup remover? Share your beauty secrets!
FAQs
How do cleansing balms work?
These balms are like little miracle workers that use oils and emollients to effortlessly sweep away dirt, makeup, and all the daily gunk that accumulates on your face without harsh scrubbing.
The beauty is they can do all of this while being super gentle. So, no stripping your skin of its natural oils or harming your precious skin barrier.
Is a cleansing balm better than a makeup remover?
Absolutely! Cleansing balms are like the superheroes of makeup removal.
They not only whisk away makeup but also bring extra love to your skin as part of your skincare routine.
Do I have to double cleanse, or can I use a cleansing balm on its own?
Well, here’s the deal: It’s a good idea for most folks to follow up a makeup remover balm with a traditional cleanser.
Why? Because oil-based balms can sometimes leave a bit of residue behind.
So, especially if you’re prone to acne, a double cleanse is your best bet to ensure your skin is squeaky and feeling its best.
