Cleansing balms are thick and designed to penetrate the skin, drawing out impurities and cleaning even the heaviest cosmetics away. They should leave the face feeling smooth and radiant and are simply applied then wiped away with a warm muslin cloth or flannel. As the balms are infused with oils they shouldn't dry out the face, or trigger that unpleasant tight feeling. Some aren't great at removing all make-up though, so it's a good idea to get into the habit of doing a pre-cleanse before you use one.
If you suffer with sensitive skin Aromatherapy Associates Soothing Cleansing Balm is a good choice. It contains omega oils which are rich in fatty acids, camomile and sweet almond oil to help calm and soothe the face. While it might not get rid of really stubborn eye make-up, this product wins points as it is so hydrating.
Those who have exceptionally dry or dehydrated skin should give TEMPLE SPA In The Beginning cleansing balm a go. It's billed as a 'facial in a jar' and contains beads which exfoliate, helping to get rid of dry patches. You also don't need to use much of this to get a hydrated and dewy finish, thanks to its vitamin complex. If you want more of a hit it can be left on for 30 minutes and used as a mask too, where the lavender oil will really get to work to soothe skin. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is another which can double as a mask and was created to give the spa feel at home. It nourishes, softens and soothes skin thanks to the ingredients list including chamomile, eucalyptus, orange, starflower and elderberry oils.
While for some women smell is all part of the joy of using beauty products, scented potions aren't for everyone. This is where Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm steps in, as it's fragrance free. It also doesn't contain mineral oil, animal by-products or essential oils, so is a good choice for anyone who finds heavy cleansers can lead to breakouts. It isn't greasy or drying and should be strong enough to tackle even waterproof eye make-up.
REN No 1 Purity Cleansing Balm is infused with rose and is very gentle, so a good choice if you want something calming for your face. Bisabolol will help with redness as will davanone, which is also soothing. It also helps boost the skin's barrier from free radicals and pollutions thanks to prebiotic oligosaccharides, always a plus point if you live in the city or have a stressful job.
We all know that mature skins need a little more TLC to keep them looking their best, which is where Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm steps in. It is a great option for those who are older or who suffer badly from dullness as the jasmine, cedarwood and rose help to recondition skin. Moringa seed extract and wild sea fennel also purify and reduce the look of large or open pores.
Oily skinned ladies might be concerned about the effect of adding a thick balm to their faces, but there is an option out there. Nutriganics Softening Cleansing Gel transforms into an oil when applied and is also good for those who are suffering from the first signs of ageing.