Have you ever washed your face and felt that your skin feels tight and dry afterward? An effective cleanser should not only remove makeup and impurities—it should also preserve the skin's natural balance. This is where cleansing balms come into play. As a key product in the Korean skincare routine, cleansing balms offer a deep cleanse while simultaneously nourishing and hydrating the skin. But what makes these balms so special, and why have they become a favorite among skincare enthusiasts worldwide?
What is a Cleansing Balm?
Cleansing balm is an oil-based cleanser in solid form that melts into a silky oil upon contact with the skin. It is used to effectively dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum while preserving the skin's moisture balance. Unlike many other cleansers, which can be drying, cleansing balms contain nutrient-rich oils and nourishing ingredients that leave the skin soft and hydrated after cleansing.
Key Ingredients in Cleansing Balms and Their Functions
- Natural Oils (e.g., sunflower oil, jojoba oil, shea butter) – Dissolve dirt and makeup while moisturizing and protecting the skin's barrier.
- Fermented Ingredients – Improve nutrient absorption and strengthen the skin's microbiome for healthier skin.
- Antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E, green tea, propolis) – Protect the skin against free radicals and counteract early signs of aging.
- Soothing Extracts (e.g., centella asiatica, chamomile, oat extract) – Reduce irritation and strengthen the skin's natural protection.
Cleansing balms are particularly suitable for those who want a deep cleanse without compromising the skin's moisture balance. They are ideal for all skin types and are often used as the first step in the Korean double cleansing method.
The Difference Between Korean and Traditional Cleansing Balms
Korean cleansing balms differ from Western variants through innovative formulations, skincare ingredients, and a philosophy that focuses on long-term skin health rather than just makeup removal.
Lighter and Smoother Texture
Many Western cleansing balms have a thick and sometimes waxy feel that can be difficult to rinse off. Korean balms, on the other hand, are soft and quickly melt into an oil upon contact with the skin. This makes them feel lighter and leaves no sticky residue.
Gentle yet Thorough Cleansing
A major advantage of Korean cleansing balms is that they transform in several steps—first, they melt into an oil that dissolves makeup and dirt, and when water is added, they turn into a milky emulsion that can be easily rinsed off. This method cleanses the skin thoroughly without drying it out.
Contains Plant-Based and Fermented Ingredients
Many Korean cleansing balms are filled with natural extracts and fermented ingredients that strengthen the skin and make it more resilient. Ingredients like centella asiatica, propolis, and green tea help soothe the skin and reduce irritation, something often missing in Western alternatives.
A Part of the Korean Double Cleansing
In Korean skincare, cleansing balms are an important part of double cleansing, where you first cleanse with an oil-based product (like a balm) and then follow up with a water-based cleanser. This ensures that both oil and water-soluble impurities disappear, resulting in cleaner and healthier skin.
Gentler and More Nourishing
Many Western cleansing balms contain strong cleansing agents or synthetic fragrances that can dry out or irritate the skin. Korean variants are often milder and based on natural ingredients that help maintain the skin's moisture balance and protect against dehydration.
Benefits of using cleansing balm
Cleansing balm is one of the gentlest and most effective methods for removing makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. It cleanses the skin thoroughly while also caring for and moisturizing it.
Effectively removes makeup and sunscreen
Since cleansing balm is oil-based, it dissolves even waterproof makeup and sunscreen without needing to rub the skin. This makes cleansing gentler, especially around the eyes.
Cleanses the skin deeply without drying it out
Many common facial cleansers can make the skin dry or tight after cleansing. Cleansing balm helps to cleanse the skin deeply while preserving its natural moisture, making it perfect for both dry and sensitive skin.
Contains skin-caring ingredients
In addition to removing makeup and dirt, many Korean cleansing balms contain caring ingredients that soothe and strengthen the skin. Examples of such ingredients are centella asiatica, green tea, and fermented extracts, which all help reduce redness and irritation.
Suitable for all skin types
Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin, there is a cleansing balm that suits you. For oily and acne-prone skin, there are variants with balancing ingredients like green tea or tea tree, while dry skin benefits from balms with shea butter and squalane.
Makes the skin soft and gives it a glow
Cleansing balm helps to gently remove old skin cells and impurities, giving the skin a fresher and more glowing look. Since the skin is not dried out after cleansing, it also feels supple and hydrated.
How and when to use cleansing balm
Cleansing balm is primarily intended to be used in the evening, as it effectively removes dirt, makeup, and sunscreen that have accumulated on the skin during the day. For those with very dry skin, it can also be used in the morning to provide extra nourishment and prepare the skin for the day.
The most effective method for using cleansing balm is to follow these steps.
- Apply to dry skin. Start with dry hands and a dry face. Take a small amount of cleansing balm, approximately the size of a pea, and massage it over the entire face in soft, circular motions. This helps to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum without irritating the skin.
- Let the balm melt. When the balm comes into contact with the skin, it starts to melt and turn into an oil. Continue massaging gently for 30–60 seconds to ensure that dirt and impurities are properly dissolved.
- Emulsify with water. Add a small amount of lukewarm water and continue massaging. The oil now turns into a milky emulsion, making it easier to rinse off the product without leaving a greasy film on the skin.
- Rinse thoroughly. Use lukewarm water to rinse all the product from the face. Be careful not to use too hot water, as it can dry out the skin.
- Follow up with a water-based cleanser. For a deeper cleanse and to remove the last traces of dirt and oil, it is recommended to follow up with a water-based cleanser. This is especially important if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Tips for best results
- For dry or sensitive skin – If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose a cleansing balm with ingredients like shea butter, squalane or oat extract. After cleansing, you can apply a moisturizing toner and a nourishing face cream to maintain the skin's moisture balance.
- For oily or acne-prone skin – If your skin tends to be oily or get pimples, choose a cleansing balm with ingredients like green tea, tea tree, or BHA acids. These help balance sebum production and counteract clogged pores.
- For an extra nourishing effect – Use the cleansing balm as a quick face mask by letting it work on the skin for a few minutes before rinsing it off. This can provide an extra moisturizing and soothing effect.
Which skin types should use cleansing balm?
Cleansing balm is a versatile product that works for most skin types, but the choice of balm can be adapted to specific needs.
- Dry skin – Since cleansing balm is oil-based and often contains nourishing ingredients, it is an excellent choice for dry skin. It helps to cleanse the skin without disturbing its natural moisture balance and leaves a soft and supple feeling. For extra nourishment, you can choose a balm with shea butter or squalane.
- Sensitive skin – Sensitive skin can easily react to strong cleansing products, but cleansing balms are often mild and free from irritating substances. Choose a fragrance-free variant with soothing ingredients like oat extract, centella asiatica, or chamomile to minimize the risk of irritation.
- Oily and acne-prone skin – Many believe that oil-based cleansers do not suit oily or acne-prone skin, but a good cleansing balm can actually help balance the skin's sebum production. Look for products with antibacterial and pore-tightening ingredients like green tea, tea tree, or salicylic acid (BHA) to keep the skin clear and free from clogged pores.
- Combination skin – If you have both dry and oily areas on your face, cleansing balm is a good option because it cleanses the skin effectively without drying out the drier areas. A light balm formula with moisturizing but also balancing ingredients works best.
- Mature skin – For those who want to maintain skin elasticity and radiance, a cleansing balm with antioxidants and peptides can be a good choice. Ingredients like propolis, fermented extracts, and vitamin E help protect the skin and preserve its youthful appearance.
Cleansing balm is a gentle but effective cleansing method that can be adapted to different skin types and needs. By choosing the right balm for your skin type, you can achieve clean, moisturized, and balanced skin without disturbing its natural protective barrier.
Frequently asked questions and answers about cleansing balm
What is the difference between cleansing balm and regular facial cleanser?
Cleansing balm is an oil-based cleanser that melts away dirt, makeup, and SPF without drying out the skin. Regular facial cleansers, particularly foaming or gel-based, can sometimes be more drying and less effective on oil-soluble impurities.
Can I use cleansing balm if I have oily skin?
Yes, cleansing balm is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. A balm with ingredients like green tea, tea tree, or BHA can balance sebum production and counteract clogged pores.
Do I need to wash my face after using cleansing balm?
It is recommended to follow up with a water-based cleanser, especially if you are using double cleansing. This ensures that all residues of makeup, SPF, and dirt are completely removed.
