Why You Should Never Use Water When Using A Cleansing Balm

Is there anything better than a skincare product that multitasks? Honestly...no. Even though countless products work hard to provide multiple benefits, cleansing balms are a one-stop-shop. They cleanse, moisturize, remove makeup, residue, and anything leftover on your face from your day. These balms are also low maintenance, in the sense that you can use them without water, and additional cleansers in your routine.

So, if your current cleansing routine is more than you bargained for, take a look at cleansing balms. But, before you dive in, know that each balm varies. “Some cleansing balms are more moisturizing than others —you should test them out to find the right fit,” says New York City-based dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD. Here's what else you should know.

What Are Cleansing Balms?

You should know up front that a balm is going to cleanse differently than your typical suds-y cleanser. “A cleansing balm is typically thicker in consistency than a regular cleanser. They’re more creamy and rich in oils,” says Stacy Chimento, MD, a Miami-based dermatologist. Most cleansers are soft and don’t need to be worked into the skin whereas a cleansing balm does. But what makes these balms so great is the thicker and creamy consistency that melts into your skin to hydrate and moisturize. Unlike traditional cleansers, you can also use a cleansing balm around your eyes to remove makeup—it won’t irritate your eyes. They are soft and full of oils so that the thin, sensitive skin around your eyes won’t be stripped of moisture.

How Do They Work?

Since cleansing balms start as a hard texture (think a stick of butter), you’ll have to work it into your skin. “As you massage the balm on the skin, the heat from your hands turns the consistency to soft and buttery,” says Dr. Chimento. Once you’re done cleansing your skin, take a soft cloth (muslin works best), and gently wipe your face to clear the balm off. You’ll notice all of the residue and makeup that the balm removes on the cloth. You can rinse with water as well if you like.

What’s The Best Way To Add It To Your Routine?

Don’t worry, you don’t have to entirely quit your cleanser just yet. You can use a cleansing balm on its own, or you can use them interchangeably. “I would say to reserve your cleansing balm for days when you use heavy makeup and sunscreen, and use your regular cleanser for normal days,” says Dr. Chimento. And, if you want to double cleanse (which derms give the go-ahead to do), start with your cleansing balm then follow it with your usual cleanser.

Even though cleansing balms are great for all skin types and easy to add to your current skincare routine, Dr. Idriss explains that those with dry skin will benefit the most. “If you have dry skin, it’s definitely for you,” she says. Those with oily skin, surprisingly, will also benefit from using a cleansing balm. “Counter-intuitively, a cleansing balm could be useful for oily skin. If you have oily skin, you can strip yourself of natural oils if you are using a harsh cleanser twice a day,” she says. So, swap out your regular cleanser, and stick to using a cleansing balm to keep your skin’s natural oil and moisture in check.

What Should You Look For In A Cleansing Balm?

When you're looking for a cleansing balm to add to your lineup, Dr. Chimento likes ones with coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, ginger root oil, and manuka honey. All of these are extra moisturizing and helpful for breaking down stubborn makeup. You can also seek balms that help with collagen stimulation and brightening by looking for those containing vitamin C.

Ahead, the best cleansing balms for everyone.