12 Best Cleansing Balms of 2022 to Melt Away Makeup

There are two kinds of people at the end of the day: the ones who gently dissolve their makeup like a peaceful skincare
wizard… and the ones who scrub their face like they’re trying to erase a bad decision. If you’ve ever fought with
waterproof mascara (and lost), a cleansing balm is your new best friendthe one who shows up with snacks, takes your
makeup off, and doesn’t judge your “I only wore this foundation for a quick errand” lie.

Cleansing balms are oil-based cleansers in a solid “sorbet” or butter-like texture. You massage them onto dry skin,
they melt into an oil that loosens makeup and sunscreen, then they emulsify with water and rinse clean. They’re
especially helpful as the first step in a double cleanseaka removing the day’s makeup, SPF, and grime before you
follow with your regular face wash. [2][15]

Why Cleansing Balms Became the MVP of Makeup Removal

The logic is beautifully simple: oil breaks down oil. Long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen tend to
cling because they’re formulated to resist water. A balm meets them on their own turf, dissolving that stubborn “won’t
budge” layer so you don’t have to tug at your skin. Dermatology guidance also emphasizes being gentlelukewarm water,
fingertips (not aggressive scrubbing tools), and a non-abrasive cleanserbecause irritation isn’t a skincare flex. [3]

And yes, removing makeup before bed matters. Sleeping in makeup can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts, even if
the label says “non-comedogenic.” Your pillowcase does not have a skincare degree. [4]

How We Chose These 2022 Standouts

This list pulls from a mix of product testing, editor recommendations, and real-world usabilityespecially formulas
known for melting makeup comfortably and rinsing clean. The core “best of 2022” lineup is based on Good Housekeeping’s
curated selections, then cross-checked with brand and retailer details for texture, use, and key ingredients. [1]

Quick Cheat Sheet: How to Pick the Right Cleansing Balm

If your skin is dry or easily annoyed

Look for fragrance-free or low-fragrance formulas and richer emollients. The goal is “clean and comfortable,” not
“tight and squeaky.” If your skin feels stripped after cleansing, that’s a sign to go gentler. [3]

If you wear long-wear makeup or lots of sunscreen

Choose a balm that explicitly targets long-wear makeup and SPF. These formulas tend to have that satisfying “makeup
slides off” moment without a wrestling match. [2]

If you’re acne-prone

Balms can still workjust focus on rinsability and follow with a water-based cleanser. Double cleansing is commonly
described as oil-based first, water-based second, which helps remove residue and leftover debris. [2][15]

12 Best Cleansing Balms of 2022 to Melt Away Makeup

1) Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm (Best Overall)

This is the “plays well with everyone” classic: a silky balm that melts down makeup and SPF without making your face
feel like it just ran a marathon. Clinique positions it as dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested and 100% fragrance
freehandy if your eyes are dramatic about, well, everything. [5]

Best for: sensitive skin/eyes, daily makeup wearers.
Pro tip: Massage on dry skin first, then add a little water to emulsify before rinsing. [1][2]

2) e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm (Best Affordable)

Proof that a cleansing balm doesn’t need to cost “fancy brunch” money. e.l.f.’s balm is designed to melt into an oil,
then rinse into a milky texture. It’s marketed with skin-friendly staples like hyaluronic acid and peptidesbasically,
a budget cleanser that still shows up with hydration vibes. [6]

Best for: most skin types, beginners to balms.
Pro tip: Use a dime-sized amount. More isn’t always betteryour face isn’t a skillet. [3][6]

3) Milk Makeup Hydro Ungrip Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm (Best for Waterproof Makeup)

If your mascara has the emotional attachment style of a barnacle, this one’s worth a look. Milk highlights hydrating
ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe in the Hydro Ungrip remover line, aiming for that clean-but-not-stripped
finish. It’s designed to tackle makeup, SPF, and daily buildup in one satisfying melt. [7]

Best for: waterproof/long-wear makeup fans, dehydrated skin.
Pro tip: Work it around the lash line gently, then rinse and follow with a mild cleanser. [2][7]

4) Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm (Best Splurge for Dry Skin)

This balm leans into a comfort-cleanse: Naturopathica describes it as a best-seller that melts away makeup and
impurities while moisturizing with Manuka honey. If your skin tends to feel dry after cleansing, this category of rich,
nourishing balm can make nighttime cleansing feel less like a chore and more like a mini facial. [8]

Best for: dry skin, winter skin, “my cheeks are thirsty” moods.
Pro tip: Take a full minute to massagebalms work better with a little time and warmth. [2][8]

5) Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm (Best for Heavy SPF Days)

Farmacy’s Green Clean is known for that “melts makeup without scrubbing” energy. The brand highlights sunflower oil for
breaking down long-wear makeup + SPF and papaya extract for lifting away impurities, plus a “greens” antioxidant blend.
It’s a crowd favorite when your sunscreen is doing the most. [9]

Best for: daily sunscreen wearers, makeup + SPF layering.
Pro tip: Emulsify thoroughly (add water and keep massaging) so it rinses clean. [2][9]

6) Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Cleansing Balm (Best for Sensitive Skin)

Paula’s Choice frames this balm as fragrance-free and built to melt away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while
rinsing completely clean. The “Omega+” angle is all about nourishing, barrier-friendly comfortgreat when your skin is
easily irritated or you want a gentler first cleanse. [10]

Best for: sensitive or dry skin, fragrance avoiders.
Pro tip: Keep your touch lightderm guidance is clear that scrubbing and tugging are not the goal. [3][10]

7) Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (Best Spa-Like Scent)

This one is a full sensory experience: rich texture, luxe feel, and that “I definitely have my life together” aroma.
Good Housekeeping highlights its classic status and essential-oil-infused spa vibe, plus strong makeup-dissolving
performanceespecially if cleansing is your nightly wind-down ritual. [1]

Best for: dry-to-normal skin, fragrance lovers.
Pro tip: If you’re sensitive to scent, patch test firstyour face deserves a trial period. [1][3]

8) Avon Isa Knox LXNEW Clean 2-In-1 Exfoliating Cleansing Balm (Best Multi-Tasker)

This pick is for the “I want fewer steps” crowd. Good Housekeeping describes it as a cleanser + makeup remover + gentle
exfoliating option in one, helping take an extra step out of the nighttime routine. As with any exfoliating cleanse,
go easyoverdoing it can leave skin feeling cranky. [1][3]

Best for: normal-to-combination skin, minimalists.
Pro tip: Use it a few nights a week rather than every single night if you’re prone to sensitivity. [3]

9) True Botanicals Calm Ginger Turmeric Cleansing Balm (Best for Acne-Prone Skin)

True Botanicals positions this balm as effective at removing makeup, sunscreen, and impurities “but not moisture,” with
ginger and turmeric as soothing, barrier-friendly stars. Good Housekeeping notes it worked well for an editor prone to
redness and breakouts, which is a strong sign for people who fear balms will clog them. [11][1]

Best for: oily or acne-prone skin that still wants comfort.
Pro tip: Double cleanse: balm first, then a gentle water-based cleanser second. [2][15]

10) Trinny London Be Your Best Enzyme Balm Cleanser (Best Brightening)

If your skin looks a little “meh” lately, enzyme cleansers can help polish things up. Good Housekeeping spotlights this
balm for brightening fruit enzymes (including pineapple enzyme) and refillable packaging, with the caveat that some
reviewers reported sensitivityso it’s not the best choice for everyone. [1]

Best for: dullness, normal-to-resilient skin types.
Pro tip: If you use strong actives (retinoids/acids), don’t stack everything on the same night. Keep it balanced. [3]

11) Sunday Riley Blue Moon Tranquility Cleansing Balm (Best Soothing Option)

Sunday Riley describes Blue Moon as a hydrating balm that removes makeup and impurities while calming and soothing dry
skin, using sugar-based cleansing agents. The brand also highlights a comforting base (like cocoa and moringa butters)
and a relaxing scent profilegreat when your nighttime routine doubles as a “please let my brain turn off” button. [12]

Best for: dry skin, stressed-out skin, bedtime rituals.
Pro tip: If texture feels slightly grainy (as some note), warm it between fingers first. [1][12]

12) Nudestix Nudeskin Citrus Clean Balm & Make-Up Melt (Best for Travel)

Travel-friendly packaging mattersbecause nobody wants to clean an exploded cleanser out of a toiletry bag at a hotel
sink. Nudestix describes this as a citrus-infused, vegan balm in a no-mess tube that removes makeup while cleansing and
softening skin. It’s the kind of product that makes airport bathrooms feel slightly less tragic. [13]

Best for: travel, gym bags, quick removals.
Pro tip: Keep a small microfiber cloth handy for a thorough rinse when you’re on the go. [3][13]

How to Use a Cleansing Balm Like a Pro

1. Start dry: Dry hands, dry face. Massage balm over forehead, cheeks, nose, chin.
2. Give it time: 30–60 seconds helps break down sunscreen and base makeup.
3. Emulsify: Add a splash of lukewarm water and keep massaging until it turns milky.
4. Rinse and follow: Rinse well, then use a gentle water-based cleanser if you wore makeup or SPF. [2][15]
5. Pat dry: Don’t rub your face like you’re starting a fire. Pat with a soft towel. [3]

Common Mistakes That Make Your Balm Less Magical

• Adding water too soon: If you wet your face immediately, the balm can’t fully dissolve makeup first.
• Scrubbing the eye area: Use gentle pressureespecially around lashes. Dermatology guidance favors fingertips over abrasive tools. [3]
• Not rinsing enough: Emulsify and rinse thoroughly, then follow with a second cleanser when needed. [2]
• Chasing “squeaky clean”: Tight, stripped skin isn’t a win; it’s a warning sign. [3]

Real-Life Experiences: on What Cleansing Balms Are Like Night After Night

The first time someone uses a cleansing balm, the most common reaction is surprisebecause it doesn’t feel like
“washing” at all. It feels like massaging your face with a soft butter that turns into oil, and that texture shift is
weirdly satisfying. People who wear long-wear foundation often notice the “slip” immediately: instead of dragging
makeup across the skin with cotton pads, the balm loosens it so it moves as one layer. That’s when you see those little
streaks of foundation and mascara lifting away, and suddenly makeup removal feels less like a workout.

Another frequent experience: the eye-makeup moment. Waterproof mascara can convince you it’s part of your DNA, but a
balm gives it a peaceful exit strategy. The key is patienceholding the product around the lash line for a few seconds
and gently massaging, rather than scrubbing. People with sensitive eyes often report that fragrance-free options feel
more comfortable, while heavily scented “spa” balms can be relaxing for some and irritating for others. It’s a very
personal “nose and eyes” situation.

On sunscreen-heavy daysbeach days, hiking days, “I applied SPF like a responsible adult” daysbalms can feel like the
only thing that makes skin feel truly clean without repeated washes. Users who double cleanse often describe the first
balm step as removing the “film” and the second cleanser as making skin feel fresh. This two-step approach is also where
people learn the difference between “clean” and “stripped.” When the second cleanser is too harsh, skin can feel tight,
which is a common signal to switch to a gentler face wash.

In winter, balm cleansers become comfort products. Many people notice less post-wash dryness compared with foaming
cleansers, especially when they keep the water lukewarm and avoid overwashing. And for travelers, the experience is
mostly about convenience: a tube or solid balm is easier to pack than a leaky liquid, and it can remove makeup quickly
when you’re washing your face in a tiny sink with questionable lighting. There’s also the “lazy night” benefit: when
you’re exhausted, a balm can make the first cleanse feel effortless, which increases the odds you’ll actually remove
your makeup instead of face-planting into your pillow.

Finally, there’s the long-term experience: consistency. People who stick with a balm routine tend to get better at the
techniqueusing less product, massaging longer, emulsifying properly, and rinsing thoroughly. Over time, it becomes a
predictable “end of day” reset. And honestly, that might be the best feature of all: skincare that feels easy enough to
do every night.

Final Thoughts

The best cleansing balm is the one you’ll actually use consistentlybecause a product that sits on your bathroom shelf
is just expensive decor. Whether you want fragrance-free simplicity, a spa-like cleanse, a travel tube, or a budget gem,
the 2022 standouts above cover a balm for basically every face mood imaginable.