How to Use an Oil-Based Cleansing Balm: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Cleansing balm may look more like a moisturizer than a facial cleanser, so it’s completely understandable to wonder how an oil-based product can actually clean your skin.
Unlike traditional facial cleansers, an oil-based cleansing balm doesn’t need to foam or lather. Instead, its oils help loosen makeup, sunscreen, excess skin oils, and everyday buildup so they can be gently wiped away with a warm, damp cloth.
The process is simple, but using the right technique makes all the difference.
How Does an Oil-Based Cleansing Balm Work?
Oil-based cleansing follows the basic principle that oils can help dissolve and loosen other oil-based substances.
When you massage cleansing balm into your skin, it begins breaking down stubborn products and buildup, including:
- Makeup
- Sunscreen
- Excess skin oil
- Dirt and daily grime
- Oil-based skincare products
The massage helps lift that buildup from the skin. A clean, warm washcloth then removes the balm and everything it has loosened.
Because our Daily Renewal Cleansing Balm doesn’t contain a synthetic emulsifier or foaming surfactant, it won’t turn milky or rinse away with water alone. It needs to be thoroughly removed with a damp cloth.
How to Use Your Cleansing Balm
Step 1: Begin with dry hands and a dry face
Don’t wet your face before applying the balm. Beginning with dry skin allows the oils to make direct contact with makeup, sunscreen, and buildup without water getting in the way.
Using clean, dry fingers or a cosmetic spatula, scoop out a small amount of balm. Start with approximately a dime-sized amount and add more only if needed.
Step 2: Warm the balm between your fingertips
Rub the balm gently between your fingertips for a few seconds. Your body heat will soften it into a silky oil that spreads easily across your skin.
Step 3: Massage it into your skin
Apply the melted balm to your dry face and massage it gently using small, circular motions.
Spend approximately 30 to 60 seconds working it across your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and jawline. Give extra attention to areas with makeup or sunscreen but avoid harsh scrubbing or pulling on your skin.
When cleansing around the eyes, keep your eyes closed and avoid getting the product directly into them. Remove contact lenses before using an oil-based product near the eye area.
Step 4: Remove it with a warm, damp cloth
Wet a clean, soft washcloth with warm—not hot—water and wring out the excess.
Lay the cloth over your face for several seconds to soften the balm. Then gently wipe it away. Rinse the cloth and repeat until your skin feels clean and there is no heavy or greasy residue remaining.
Avoid aggressive rubbing. The warmth and moisture of the cloth should do most of the work.
Step 5: Finish your routine
Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Your skin should feel clean, soft, and comfortable rather than tight or stripped.
Depending on your skin, you may not need an additional moisturizer. If your skin still feels dry, apply a very small amount of your favorite tallow balm while the skin is slightly damp.
Do You Need to Double Cleanse?
Double cleansing means using an oil-based cleanser first and following it with a water-based facial cleanser.
It is completely optional.
You may prefer to double cleanse if you wear heavy makeup, water-resistant sunscreen, or simply enjoy the feeling of a traditional second cleanse. If your skin feels clean and comfortable after removing the balm with a washcloth, a second cleanser may not be necessary.
Pay attention to your skin. Over-cleansing can leave it feeling dry, tight, or irritated.
When Should You Use Cleansing Balm?
Most people use cleansing balm in the evening to remove the day’s makeup, sunscreen, oil, and buildup.
It can be used:
- As your nightly facial cleanser
- As the first step in a double-cleansing routine
- Whenever you need to remove makeup or sunscreen
- A few evenings per week if your skin prefers less-frequent cleansing
There is no single schedule that works for everyone. Begin slowly and adjust based on how your skin responds.
Common Cleansing-Balm Mistakes
Applying it to a wet face
Unless your product’s directions say otherwise, oil-based cleansing balm works best when applied to dry skin with dry hands.
Using too much
More product doesn’t necessarily mean a better cleanse. Using too much can make the balm harder to remove and may leave your skin feeling overly coated.
Trying to rinse it away with water alone
A balm without emulsifiers or surfactants won’t rinse off like a foaming cleanser. Use a warm, damp cloth to physically remove the balm and the buildup it has loosened.
Scrubbing with the washcloth
Use gentle wiping motions. Excessive rubbing can irritate the skin, especially around the eyes.
Allowing water into the jar
Use clean, dry fingers or a clean cosmetic spatula. Keeping water out of a water-free product helps protect its quality and shelf life.
Is Oil Cleansing Right for Every Skin Type?
Oil-based cleansing can work for many skin types, including dry, combination, and mature-feeling skin. However, everyone’s skin is different.
If your skin is sensitive or prone to blemishes, begin with a small patch test and introduce the balm gradually. Stop using it if you experience persistent redness, itching, burning, or new irritation.
Meet Daily Renewal Cleansing Balm
Our Daily Renewal Cleansing Balm is handcrafted in small batches with tallow, jojoba oil, castor oil, and gently infused botanical oils. Its rich texture melts against the warmth of your skin, helping loosen the day’s buildup while leaving your skin feeling soft and nourished.
It cleans without traditional soap, synthetic emulsifiers, or foaming surfactants. Just massage it onto dry skin, remove it thoroughly with a warm washcloth, and enjoy a slower, gentler way to end your day.