3 Best Cleansing Balms for Waterproof Makeup

If you’re tired of tugging at your stubborn waterproof makeup with ineffective cleansers, you’ll want to explore balms specifically designed to dissolve long-lasting formulas effortlessly. These rich, silky textures are formulated to melt away even the most resilient stains—think liner, waterproof mascara, and smudge-proof foundations—without irritating your skin. While performance matters, factors like hydration, ingredient safety, and size also influence your choice. Curious about which options really stand out and how they stack up in real-world tests? Let’s find out.

CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover (1.3 Oz)

If you want a makeup remover that works well on waterproof makeup, try the CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover. It comes in a small 1.3 oz size, perfect for traveling. This balm melts away waterproof mascara, heavy foundation, and other stubborn makeup easily. It’s gentle on your skin and won’t cause irritation.

This product has ceramides and jojoba oil. These ingredients help keep your skin’s barrier strong and smooth. The balm is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. It’s safe for sensitive skin, whether it’s dry, oily, or prone to acne. After use, your skin feels clean, soft, and moisturized. It leaves no greasy or oily residue behind.

You can take it with you on trips or to work. Just scoop a small amount and massage it over your face. It dissolves makeup quickly, then rinse off with water. It’s not a full face cleanser, so you may want to wash your face afterward with a regular cleanser.

Who is it good for? People with sensitive skin who want a gentle, effective way to remove waterproof makeup and stay hydrated.

Pros:

• Easily removes waterproof makeup and foundation
• Contains ceramides and jojoba oil to protect your skin
• Fragrance-free, gentle, and safe for sensitive skin

Cons:

• Small size may need frequent buying if you wear a lot of makeup
• Not a full cleanser for daily washing
• Slightly more expensive than basic makeup removers

If you want a makeup remover that works without irritating your skin and keeps it healthy, this balm is a good choice.

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is a simple yet strong makeup remover. It uses only ten ingredients. The balm quickly melts away waterproof mascara, sunscreen, and tough stains. You don’t have to rub or tug your skin. It gently dissolves makeup without causing irritation.

This balm contains Pearl Barley and Vitamin E. These ingredients help keep your skin soft and balanced. It has a rinse-clean texture. That means no greasy or oily residue stays on your skin. It works well for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin types.

The jar is small but lasts a long time. It is a good choice if you want clean skin without spending a lot. This balm is gentle but effective. It makes makeup removal easy and leaves your skin feeling fresh.

Best For: People with sensitive or oily skin who want a simple, gentle, and effective makeup remover. It helps leave your skin soft and clean.

Pros:

• Melts waterproof makeup, sunscreen, and stains easily.
• Contains Pearl Barley and Vitamin E to help skin stay soft and healthy.
• Rinse-clean feeling means no oily or greasy leftover.

Cons:

• Has a fragrance that some prefer to avoid.
• The small jar may need to be replaced more often if you use a lot.
• Some users may want a product without a scent or a different texture.

BANILA CO Cleansing Balm Original (Big Size, 180ml)

If you wear waterproof makeup often, you need a good cleanser that can break it down easily. The BANILA CO Cleansing Balm Original (Big Size, 180ml) is a popular choice. It’s known all around the world and has won awards. This balm works well to melt away waterproof makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and oil.

The texture feels like sherbet turning into oil when you rub it on your face. It’s smooth and feels like a gentle massage. This makes removing makeup more relaxing, not a chore. The ingredients include antioxidants from Acerola berries and Vitamin C. These help keep your skin healthy and bright.

This balm is gentle and safe for all skin types. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin, it won’t dry out or irritate you. It leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.

This cleanser is best if you want a simple way to remove waterproof makeup and sunscreen. It works well for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Pros:

• Melts waterproof makeup, long-lasting products, and sunscreen easily.
• Contains antioxidants like Acerola berry and Vitamin C, which help hydrate and brighten the skin.
• Gentle and safe for sensitive skin. It leaves skin feeling soft, clean, and refreshed without dryness or irritation.

Cons:

• The big bottle can be bulky to carry when you travel.
• It may not remove excess oil or deep-seated dirt from blackheads, so you might need a second cleanser.
• Some find the sherbet-to-oil texture takes a bit longer to use if they prefer quick routines.

This balm is a good option if you want an effective, gentle way to clean your face and remove waterproof makeup.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cleansing Balm for Waterproof Makeup

When choosing a cleansing balm for waterproof makeup, you want one that really gets the job done without irritating your skin. It’s essential to think about its makeup-removing power, how compatible it is with your skin type, and what ingredients are inside—because not all formulas are created equal. Plus, don’t forget to consider texture, ease of use, and whether it rinses away cleanly without leaving behind a greasy residue.

Makeup Removal Power

When choosing a cleansing balm for waterproof makeup, look for one that can break down tough makeup easily. Good balms have oils and emulsifiers that help dissolve stubborn products like waterproof mascara or eyeliner. Ingredients like jojoba oil, mineral oil, or esters help lift off long-lasting makeup smoothly.

The thick, rich texture of a balm works better than lighter, water-based cleansers. A good balm wraps around makeup and melts it away quickly. When you rinse or wipe, it leaves your skin clean without needing a lot of rubbing. This saves time and keeps your skin healthy.

Pick a cleansing balm with these features for easy and gentle makeup removal.

Skin Compatibility

Choosing the right cleansing balm is not just about taking off makeup. It’s about making sure your skin stays happy and healthy after cleaning. Your skin has a pH level that affects how well the balm works and how gentle it is. If you have sensitive skin, look for balms with calming ingredients like ceramides or jojoba oil. These ingredients soothe your skin without causing irritation.

If your skin is oily or breaks out easily, pick a non-comedogenic balm. That means it won’t clog your pores or make acne worse. Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or vitamin E. These help keep your skin moist and stop it from feeling tight or dry.

If you have allergies, avoid balms with strong fragrances, parabens, or other common irritants. These can cause reactions or make your skin worse. Always choose a balm that suits your skin type. This way, your skin stays clean, happy, and healthy.

Ingredient Composition

If you want to remove waterproof makeup easily, look at the ingredients in your cleansing balm. The best ones have oils or esters. These ingredients help dissolve stubborn, water-resistant makeup.

Also, choose products with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil or Vitamin E. These help protect your skin from dryness and irritation while you clean.

Avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin. Stay away from artificial fragrances, parabens, and alcohol, especially if your skin is sensitive.

Pick a balm with few ingredients, ideally between 5 and 15. A simple formula is safer and less likely to cause irritation.

Think of it like cooking with fewer ingredients—less is more when it comes to caring for your skin.

Texture and Ease

When you need to remove waterproof makeup, the texture of your cleansing balm makes a big difference. A good balm should feel smooth and easy to spread. It should melt gently on your skin and mix with water easily. This helps break down tough makeup, like waterproof mascara or long-lasting foundation, without a lot of rubbing.

A creamy or sherbet-like texture works best. It glides on smoothly and doesn’t pull or tug at your skin. That way, your skin stays comfortable, and you avoid irritation. Also, the balm should rinse away cleanly. It shouldn’t leave a greasy or sticky film behind.

A strong balm keeps its shape while you use it. It doesn’t break apart or clump together. This makes your cleansing experience smooth and simple. Overall, the right texture helps remove makeup fast, with less effort, and leaves your skin feeling fresh and clean.

Residue and Rinse

Even the best cleansing balm can leave a greasy or sticky film on your skin. This residue can clog pores, cause breakouts, or make your skin look dull. That’s why rinsing well is very important.

A water-soluble balm makes this easier. After cleansing, splash water on your face and see if any film stays. If your skin still feels greasy or sticky, you haven’t rinsed enough. Use more water and gently massage your face. Then, pat your skin dry with a towel. Be sure to check for oily patches in folds of your skin, like around your nose or chin.

Good rinsing helps remove all the balm. When done right, your skin will feel fresh and clean, not weighed down. Choosing a balm that rinses away easily can prevent irritation. It also keeps your skin clear and glowing.

Cost and Longevity

Thinking about how much a cleansing balm costs can be confusing. The key is to see how long the jar lasts compared to its price. Some balms last over 100 uses because you only need a tiny bit each time. That makes them a good deal because they save you money in the long run.

Balm formulas that are strong and concentrated usually last longer. You don’t need a lot to melt waterproof makeup. Cheaper balms may seem affordable at first, but they often need more product each time. This makes them run out faster and cost more over time.

Good quality balms that work well with small amounts can save you from buying new ones often. To find the best deal, look at how much each use costs. A good balm helps you save money and makes makeup removal easier.

FAQs

Can Cleansing Balms Improve Skin Hydration?

Yes, cleansing balms can improve your skin hydration by nourishing and moisturizing as they gently cleanse dirt and makeup. You’ll notice softer, more supple skin over time, especially when choosing balms with hydrating ingredients like oils and shea butter.

Are Cleansing Balms Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

Yes, cleansing balms are suitable for sensitive skin because they gently dissolve makeup without harsh ingredients, soothe irritation, and often contain calming components like chamomile or jojoba oil, making them a gentle, effective option for delicate skin.

How Often Should I Use a Cleansing Balm?

You should use a cleansing balm once a day, preferably at night, to effectively remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing to keep your skin thoroughly clean.

Do Cleansing Balms Clog Pores?

Cleansing balms usually don’t clog pores if you choose non-comedogenic formulas. You should avoid heavy, pore-clogging ingredients, and thoroughly rinse the balm off to maintain clear skin and prevent potential breakouts.

Can Cleansing Balms Be Used on Oily Skin?

Yes, you can use cleansing balms on oily skin. They effectively remove excess oil and makeup without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Just choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic balm suited for oily or acne-prone skin types.

Last update on 2026-02-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API