5 Best Cleansing Balms for Waterproof Makeup
Say goodbye to stubborn waterproof makeup with these top five cleansing balms that melt even the toughest smudges in seconds! From the gentle, effective effect of JUNO & Co. Clean 10 to the nourishing touch of CeraVe, these formulas break down long-lasting products effortlessly, leaving your skin soft and clean. They’re safe for all skin types and super easy to use — no rubbing needed! Curious about the perfect pick? Keep going, and you’ll find all the details to elevate your skincare game!
JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm
If you have trouble finding a cleansing balm that removes waterproof makeup without leaving a greasy feel or drying out your skin, JUNO & Co. offers a good option. Their Clean 10 Cleansing Balm uses only ten simple ingredients, but it works well. It easily melts away stubborn waterproof mascara, foundation, and eyeliner in seconds—no need to rub or sting your eyes. The balm changes from a solid to a silky oil that rinses clean. It leaves your skin soft, hydrated, and refreshed. The light citrus scent makes it pleasant to use, and it contains no harsh chemicals. This balm is gentle but effective—perfect for removing makeup thoroughly.
Best For: People who want a gentle, effective balm that removes waterproof makeup without leaving residue or causing irritation. Suitable for sensitive, oily, dry, or acne-prone skin.
Pros:
- Easily melts stubborn waterproof makeup without stinging.
- Rinses clean, leaving skin soft, hydrated, and refreshed.
- Made with only ten simple, skin-friendly ingredients.
Cons:
- Has a light citrus scent; some may prefer fragrance-free products.
- Might need a follow-up washcloth or rinse for extra cleaning.
- Small jar size may not last long with frequent use.
CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover (1.3 Oz)
Looking for an easy way to remove stubborn waterproof makeup? Try the CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover in a portable 1.3 oz tube, perfect for travel. This balm quickly breaks down waterproof mascara, smudges, and long-wear makeup. It leaves your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. With nourishing ceramides and jojoba oil, it helps support your skin’s natural barrier while cleaning gently. The formula is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and developed with dermatologists. It is safe for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. Say goodbye to stubborn makeup and enjoy a fresh, radiant glow.
Best For: People with sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin who want an effective waterproof makeup remover that hydrates and calms.
Pros:
- Quickly dissolves waterproof makeup, mascara, and smudges
- Nourishes skin with ceramides and jojoba oil, leaving it soft and moist
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-tested for safety
Cons:
- The small 1.3 oz size may require frequent repurchasing for heavy users
- The balm’s thicker texture may take time to fully melt and remove makeup
- Less effective on extremely heavy or long-lasting waterproof makeup compared to oil-based removers
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm and Makeup Remover
Looking to remove waterproof makeup without causing dryness or irritation? Try the e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm. It melts off stubborn smudges easily. The balm turns into a nourishing oil, then a gentle milk that rinses away. It leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed. This cleanser works well on waterproof mascara, sunscreen, and heavy makeup. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It is free from fragrances and sulfates. To use, massage it onto dry skin. Rinse with water and enjoy a clean, hydrated face. The small jar costs around $10 and lasts for many uses. It offers effective cleaning with a luxurious feel at an affordable price.
Who It’s For: People who want a gentle, effective makeup remover. Ideal for sensitive or dry skin. Perfect for removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen easily without causing irritation or dryness.
Pros:
- Easy to remove waterproof makeup and sunscreen without tugging
- Suitable for sensitive and dry skin, leaving skin hydrated and smooth
- Cost-effective; a small amount lasts for months
Cons:
- Small jar size may be less convenient for travel
- Requires rinsing and emulsifying; process takes a little longer than wipes
- May leave a slight residue with very heavy makeup; careful application is needed
Garnier Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm
Garnier Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm is a gentle and effective makeup remover. If you have trouble removing waterproof makeup, this balm makes it easy. It comes in a 4.2-ounce jar and dissolves long-wear mascara, eyeliner, lipstick, and sunscreen quickly. You don’t need to rub hard—just massage, and the makeup melts away. The balm contains hyaluronic acid, which helps keep your skin plump, hydrated, and fresh. When water touches the balm, it turns into a milky lather that rinses away dirt and makeup easily. The formula is dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and gentle for sensitive skin. Use it to feel clean, calm, and confident while caring for your skin.
Best for: people with sensitive skin who want a simple, quick makeup remover that hydrates without dryness or irritation.
Pros:
- Removes waterproof and long-lasting makeup easily
- Contains hyaluronic acid for skin hydration and plumping
- Safe for sensitive skin, free from fragrance, sulfates, and silicones
Cons:
- Has a strong chemical scent some may dislike
- No spatula or applicator included
- May need a second remover for stubborn liners or mascaras
HEIMISH All Clean Balm, Waterproof Makeup Remover & Face Cleanser
If you find it hard to remove waterproof makeup without damaging your skin, HEIMISH All Clean Balm can help. This multi-tasking cleanser melts heavy makeup, such as waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and foundation, in one step. It changes from a rich oil into a gentle milk when mixed with water, leaving your skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and hydrated. The balm contains natural oils and extracts, and it is free from harmful chemicals. It is safe for all skin types, including sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. Use it regularly to remove stubborn makeup and keep your face clean and healthy.
Best For: People with heavy or waterproof makeup who want a gentle, effective cleanser suitable for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Removes waterproof makeup easily with one step.
- Hydrates and nourishes skin with natural oils and extracts.
- Safe for sensitive, oily, or rosacea-prone skin; does not contain dyes or artificial fragrances.
Cons:
- Some people might not like the eucalyptus scent; they may prefer fragrance-free options.
- Requires water to emulsify, which may be less convenient during travel.
- The oil-to-milk texture can feel greasy for those with very oily skin, although it leaves a lightweight finish.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cleansing Balm for Waterproof Makeup
When choosing a cleansing balm for waterproof makeup, you want something that really gets the job done without irritating your skin—think powerful makeup removal and gentle ingredients. It’s also smart to think about the texture and how easy it is to use, so you don’t end up fighting with your cleanser! Plus, finding a product that offers great value means you’ll enjoy clean, radiant skin without breaking the bank—because beauty should be fun, not costly.
Makeup Removal Power
Using a cleansing balm that easily removes waterproof makeup improves your skincare routine. Choose a formula that dissolves stubborn mascara, eyeliner, and foundation without requiring harsh rubbing. Look for products that emulsify quickly when they contact water. This helps lift makeup in one or two simple swipes, reducing the need for vigorous scrubbing. Select balms with plant oils or silicones. These ingredients break down tough formulas gently without irritating or stripping your skin. Read user reviews to confirm the ease of removal and how the product leaves the skin feeling. An effective cleansing balm saves time, reduces mess, and leaves skin fresh, clean, and comfortable every morning and night.
Skin Compatibility
Want to choose a cleansing balm that works well for your sensitive skin? Pick formulas made for delicate skin. These formulas usually avoid fragrances and harsh chemicals that can cause irritation or redness. Look for balms with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. These keep your skin moist and prevent dryness after cleaning. If you tend to get pimples, select non-comedogenic options. These won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. Natural oils and plant extracts are also good choices. They help support your skin’s barrier without causing irritation. Check for labels like dermatologist-tested or hypoallergenic. These labels add extra confidence for your selection. Using the right balm makes cleaning easy and keeps your skin comfortable and healthy.
Ingredient Purity
Choosing a cleansing balm with pure, simple ingredients benefits your skin. No harmful chemicals are included, only essentials. When your balm does not contain artificial fragrances, dyes, or synthetic preservatives, it provides a gentle cleanse. Knowing exactly what ingredients are in your product helps avoid surprises. Balms with higher purity reduce the chance of breakouts or irritation. This is especially helpful for sensitive or redness-prone skin. Clean formulas support your skin’s natural barrier. They help keep your skin healthy and calm. Pick a balm that values ingredient purity. Your skin will thank you with a clearer, softer glow. You can feel confident knowing you avoid unnecessary additives.
Texture and Ease
A good cleansing balm melts smoothly into a silky oil when you massage it gently. You don’t need hard rubbing or a lot of effort. Pick a balm that changes from solid to oil easily, then becomes a milky lotion when water is added. This makes rinsing quick and simple.
Look for a lightweight, non-greasy texture that leaves your skin feeling fresh. It should not be sticky or oily after use. The best balm isn’t too thick, so you control how much you use without wasting product. An effective balm has a good emulsifier that removes waterproof makeup easily without pulling or irritating your skin. Easy application and smooth texture are key for a clean and comfortable feel.
Price and Value
Choosing a cleansing balm that offers good value means finding a product that cleans well without costing too much. Prices usually range from about $10 to $15 for daily use options. Luxury options can cost over $30. A good tip is to pick a balm that lasts long. A small amount can remove waterproof makeup from a full face, making each jar last longer. Larger containers or products with multiple uses tend to save money over time. Don’t judge a product only by price. Sometimes, cheaper balms work just as well as expensive ones, especially when they contain ingredients that clean quickly and effectively. Finding a good deal means you can achieve clean, healthy skin without spending too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cleansing Balms Remove All Types of Waterproof Makeup Effectively?
You might wonder if cleansing balms can totally remove all waterproof makeup. Generally, you’d find that high-quality balms efficiently dissolve waterproof formulas, but some stubborn waterproof mascaras or long-wear products may require extra gentle scrubbing for complete removal.
Are Cleansing Balms Suitable for Sensitive or Allergy-Prone Skin?
Cleansing balms can be suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin if you choose gentle, fragrance-free formulas. Always patch-test beforehand, and look for labels indicating they’re suitable for sensitive skin to minimize irritation risks.
How Long Should I Massage a Cleansing Balm Onto My Face?
You should massage a cleansing balm onto your face for about one to two minutes, using gentle, circular motions. This guarantees it dissolves makeup and clears impurities effectively without irritating your skin.
Do Cleansing Balms Require Rinsing or Tissue Removal?
You should rinse your face with water after applying cleansing balm, or gently remove it with a tissue if preferred. Both methods effectively clear away makeup and impurities, leaving your skin fresh and clean.
Can Cleansing Balms Replace My Regular Facial Cleanser?
You can use cleansing balms as a substitute for your regular facial cleanser, especially if they effectively remove dirt and oil. Just make certain they suit your skin type and follow up with a rinse or gentle wipe.
