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Editor's ShortlistMid-rangeSkincare

Melting Cleansing Balm

An oil-based first cleanser that breaks down sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum before a water-based cleanse.

  • Best for removing spf
  • Best for long-wear makeup
  • Best for first step of double cleansing
Texture
Balm that melts to an oil
Size
100 ml
Budget band
Mid-range
Category
Skincare

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What it is

Melting Cleansing Balm is a balm that melts to an oil product in the skincare category, typically sold in a 100 ml format. It is most often chosen by people looking for removing spf, long-wear makeup, first step of double cleansing.

Key features

  • Oil or ester base that emulsifies with water
  • Rinses without heavy residue when formulated well
  • Often fragrance-free
  • Jar or tube

How to use it

Massage into dry skin, add warm water to emulsify, rinse, then follow with a gentle water-based cleanser.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Efficient at removing water-resistant sunscreen
  • Reduces the need for scrubbing
  • Useful for dry and combination skin

Cons

  • May feel too rich for very oily skin
  • Poorly formulated versions leave a film

Who should consider it

  • Anyone wearing water-resistant SPF or long-wear makeup
  • Dry or combination skin
  • People who want to stop scrubbing at their skin

Who may want to skip it

  • Very congestion-prone skin, unless the formula rinses cleanly
  • Minimal-makeup routines that do not need a first cleanse

Final verdict

The most comfortable way to remove sunscreen. Judge a balm on how cleanly it rinses, not on how rich it feels.

Affiliate disclosure: the retailer link on this page may be an affiliate link, which means we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. This does not determine our editorial verdict. Learn more.

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