Although a recent addition to the market, cleansing balms are beginning to gain popularity and flood the shelves, leaving consumers unsure of what to choose, in addition to understanding the importance of this step in their evening routine. Given that this is not a decision to be taken lightly, what should one look for when choosing a cleansing balm?
How to choose the right cleansing balm?
Summary
Published on February 13, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min of reading
Themes:
Criterion No. 1: The ingredients used to formulate the cleansing balm.
Although cleansing balms are wash-off products, it is equally important to consider the ingredients they contain when selecting them. While most primarily contain oils, waxes, and butters, there are ingredients that people with dry or sensitive skin should avoid. For example, scented cleansing balms and those containing alcohol or irritating acids are not recommended, as they can be irritating for these skin types.
On the other hand, an individual with sensitive skin should seek balms containing ingredients with soothing properties such as aloe vera. Dry skin types should instead look for ingredients like plant oils and ceramides, as these will aid in enhancing hydration and the skin barrier. For oily skin, it is recommended to opt for formulas based on oils rich in essential fatty acids that assist in sebum regulation. Moreover, these tend to be slightly thinner, and are less likely to leave the skin feeling heavy and greasy.
100% natural, our cleansing balm is composed of a blend of camellia oil (INCI: Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil), coconut oil (INCI: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil) and buriti oil (INCI: Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil).
Criterion No. 2: The texture of the cleansing balm.
Not all cleansing balms are equal in terms of texture. Indeed, most are presented in a jar with solid-textured formulas that can be dry, crumbly, and very rich, but there are other options to consider. For instance, you could opt for more malleable formulas with a convenient consistency, referred to as semi-solid, presented in a tube, which also makes it more hygienic. This option is somewhat lighter, smoother, and finer than the thick and greasy formulas that are difficult to remove, making it ideal for individuals with oily skin.
The formula of our cleansing balm begins as a semi-solid texture to facilitate its application, before it transforms into a gentle oil once applied to the skin. Upon rinsing, it emulsifies into a milky consistency within seconds when combined with water. It dissolves all face and eye makeup, and softens the skin without being harsh and without leaving any greasy residue.
