
Double cleansing has become mandatory at night after a glam makeup look you did for a party or night out. Even skin experts or dermatologists stress this enough for a squeaky-clean face before sleep. Cleansing balms and oils have revolutionized skincare routines, offering a gentle yet effective way to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Before we delve into the specifics of individual products, it’s essential to understand the difference between cleansing balms and cleansing oils. While both are oil-based, they have distinct characteristics.
Cleansing Oils are typically lightweight, liquid formulations. They excel at dissolving oil-based impurities like makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. Ideal for normal to oily skin, they can be used as a first cleanse to remove makeup effectively.
Cleansing Balms are solid, wax-like substances that transform into oil when applied to the skin. They provide a richer, more emollient feel, making them perfect for dry and sensitive skin. Cleansing balms not only remove makeup but also hydrate and nourish the skin.
Both cleansing oils and balms are excellent options for double cleansing, a skincare method that involves two cleansing steps for the thorough removal of impurities.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is essential for thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreen, and impurities from your skin. This two-step process involves using an oil-based cleanser first to dissolve stubborn products like waterproof mascara and heavy sunscreens. The second step uses a water-based cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, and other debris from your pores. Regular double cleansing is crucial for maintaining clean, healthy skin, especially for those who wear makeup daily.
Double cleansing is the foundation of clean and healthy skin, and we’re laying out the 10 best remove-it-all cleansing balms and oils below.
1. DHC Deep Beauty Cleansing Oil:
A cult classic, this oil effectively dissolves even the most stubborn makeup without stripping the skin. Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for various skin types.
2. MAC Hyper-Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil:
This oil-gel hybrid offers a refreshing cleanse while removing impurities. It’s suitable for normal to oily skin and leaves the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
3. Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm:
This balm melts into a silky oil to dissolve makeup and impurities effortlessly. It’s suitable for all skin types and leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated.
4. Dot & Key Strawberry Dew Deep Cleansing Balm:
A budget-friendly option, this balm effectively removes makeup while providing hydration. It’s suitable for normal to dry skin.

5. Dot & Key Strawberry Dew Deep Cleansing Balm:
This balm combines the benefits of cleansing with a delightful strawberry fragrance. It’s suitable for all skin types and leaves the skin feeling refreshed.
6. Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil:
Formulated with black cumin seed oil, this oil is gentle on the skin while effectively removing makeup and impurities. It’s suitable for sensitive skin.
7. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil:
This luxurious oil transforms into a milky emulsion to remove impurities gently. It’s enriched with traditional Korean ingredients and suitable for all skin types.
8. Elemis Pro-collagen Cleansing Balm:
Known for its anti-aging benefits, this balm offers a deep cleanse while nourishing the skin with collagen-boosting ingredients. It’s suitable for mature skin.
9. Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm:
This balm combines traditional Korean ingredients with modern skincare technology for a gentle yet effective cleanse. It’s suitable for all skin types.
10. The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Rich Cleansing Oil:
Enriched with rice water, this oil provides gentle cleansing and brightening benefits. It’s suitable for dry to normal skin.
Choosing the Right Cleanser:
Selecting the perfect cleansing balm or oil depends on your skin type, concerns, and personal preference. Consider the following factors:
- Skin type: Dry skin benefits from rich balms, while oily skin may prefer lightweight oils.
- Makeup type: If you wear heavy makeup, a cleansing oil or balm with strong emulsification properties is ideal.
- Skin concerns: Look for ingredients that address specific concerns, such as hydration, brightening, or anti-aging.
- Personal preference: Some people prefer the texture of balms, while others find oils more convenient.
A few myths related to Double Cleansing:
Myth #1: Those with oily skin shouldn’t use an oil cleanser
Fact: This is a common misconception. Oil cleansers help to balance the skin’s oil production. By effectively removing oil-based impurities without stripping the skin, they can help regulate sebum production. The key is to choose a non-comedogenic oil cleanser.
Myth #2: It’s only for days when you wear heavy makeup and should be done at night
Fact: Double cleansing is beneficial for all skin types, regardless of whether you wear makeup or not. Our skin is exposed to pollutants, dirt, and sunscreen daily, which can build up and clog pores. A nightly double cleanse helps to remove these impurities effectively.
Myth #3: The second water-based cleanser will dry out the skin
Fact: This is unlikely to happen if you choose a gentle, hydrating water-based cleanser. The purpose of the second cleanse is to remove water-soluble impurities and any residue left behind by the oil cleanser. It doesn’t need to be harsh to be effective.
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