If there’s one skin care step you should be well across, it’s double cleansing. Touted by Jessica Mauboy as a foolproof makeup-removing technique, the cleansing ritual was popularised in Korea and, more recently, gained traction worldwide.
As such, cleansing products have become even more abundant in recent years. Gone are the days of the ‘one and done’ makeup wipe. Double cleansing is comprised of two key steps (bet you didn’t expect that!). Generally using oil cleanser or cleansing balm, the first cleanse works to break down makeup and SPF. The second cleanse acts as a deeper purifying step.
For those who enjoy luxuriating in their evening skincare routine, cleansing turns from routine to ritual with a makeup cleansing balm. It’s a beauty step that feels more like a pampering spa experience, leaving your skin not just clean, but truly nourished. The oil-based makeup removers liquify on the face, melting down surface debris and leaving a clean canvas in their wake.
Intrigued? We’ve compiled a list of the best cleansing balms to take some of the guesswork out.
The best cleansing balms in Australia
Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
We say: Banila Co’s Clean It Zero Balm is considered the OG of cleansing balms. Loved for its lightweight texture, the formula melts into an oil upon contact with the skin. Above all, the K-beauty staple effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while leaving the skin feeling nourished.
$32 at Adore Beauty
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
We say: beautyheaven users love this makeup remover balm for a reason. Suited to all skin types, the fragrance-free balm solution dissolves stubborn makeup without clogging pores. Its non-greasy formula also ensures a thorough cleanse.
You say: “I recently started using the Clinique Cleansing Balm and, I have to say, I’m really impressed! It’s incredibly effective at removing all my makeup, including waterproof mascara, without leaving any residue behind. The balm has a really smooth, creamy texture that feels really luxurious on my skin, and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling stripped or dry.” – charliegogs
$65 at Adore Beauty
Want to know more? Read more Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm reviews…
Heimish All Clean Balm
We say: Heimish’s All Clean balm is considered another K-beauty favourite. Infused with citrus herbs and natural oils, it will cleanse the skin without stripping its natural moisture barrier. Bonus: the All Clean Balm is also loved for its ability to melt away sebum.
$32.19 at Amazon
Ipsum Best Skin Oil Cleansing Balm
We say: Packed with nourishing ingredients like lemon myrtle and sandalwood, this balm not only removes makeup but also helps to deep clean pores, leaving the skin refreshed and smooth.
$32 at Ipsum Skin
Have you tried the Ipsum Best Skin Oil Cleansing Balm? Leave a review here…
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
We say: Ideal for mature skin, this luxurious balm contains anti-ageing ingredients like padina pavonica and elderberry oils. It effectively removes makeup and impurities while promoting a more youthful complexion.
$106 at MECCA
Bondi Sands Melt Me Cleansing Balm
We say: This budget-friendly choice is formulated with sea buckthorn oil and antioxidant-rich ingredients. Essentially, it’ll provide a thorough cleanse while protecting the skin from environmental stressors.
$19.95 at Chemist Warehouse
Have you tried the Bondi Sands Melt Me Cleansing Balm? Leave a review here…
Main image credit: Getty
Are you a fan of double-cleansing? Which balm is your favourite?
I don’t use cleansing balms that much but I definitely double cleanse!
The Elemis one is amazing.
I really want to try that brand
I would love to try Elemis but the price is prohibitive.
I use micellar water, then a creamy facewash.
I have the Heimish All Clean balm. It’s great for massaging and melting away all make-up
I haven’t used a melt away cleanser but sounds lovely,
Really love Face Halo Cleansing Balm and Tatamya an Organic Makeup Remover & Cleansing Oil, Sweet Almond, Camellia & Calendula.
Lovely ingredients MMMM!!
Beauty of Joseon is also great.
Wanna try ipsum and elemis! Fave atm loccitane and some amazing one I got at cult beauty. So exxy thopugh
These look interesting!
Have only tried a sample of the Clinique balm.
Well you are one up on me. I have never used a cleansing balm at all. Maybe time to check them out.
I would love to try the Clinique cleansing balm. Looks great.
I’m using the Elemis now , I got it in Look Fantastics beauty box, it is lovely, and removes all makeup and doesn’t irritate my eyes at all
MMMM sounds so nice.
Not tried or heard of a cleansing balm before, will look into them
I love to look and sound of all of these.
Have been double cleansing for years and I swear by it, especially when wearing make-up!
The balm from Bondi Sands looks like a great affordable option – adding to me to-try list.
I always double cleanse, I’ve tried a few brands, Heimish is in my bathroom now.
New brands are always happening. I haven’t heard of most of these
I love the Alpha H Melting moments cleansing balm, so lovely
I love cleansing balms. One of my favourites’ is Take the Day Off
I recently tried a cleansing balm from the Body Shop, and was surprised by how much I liked it.
Clinique Take the Day Off is hard to beat
totally agree, its so good
I would like to try them.
i love all of these , balms are the best
I love a cleansing balm!
I have used the Clinique – take the day off which I really like. The K-beauty cleansers sound good and are reasonably priced.
I love using cleansing balm to melt makeup
I prefer an oil to a balm.
One cleanse is enough for my skin.
The bondi sands cleansing balm is a great affordable option
Double cleansing is fine if the cleanser you use doesn’t strip the moisture from your skin.
I prefer an oily cleanser first then a moisturising cleanser when I am wearing a 24 hour foundation which is hard to remove.
On the days I don’t wear makeup I just cleanse once.