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Ingredient glossary
Balm: What It Is and What It Does
A balm is a semi-solid, wax- or oil-rich skincare format, thicker and more occlusive than a cream or lotion. In moisturisers, a balm forms a rich final-step layer that helps seal in hydration, while a cleansing balm melts on contact with skin to dissolve makeup and sunscreen before a water-based cleanser.
What it does
A moisturising balm's high wax and oil content creates a thicker barrier on the skin's surface than a cream or lotion, which is why it is generally used as a final step to lock in the products applied underneath, not on its own. A cleansing balm works differently: its oil base dissolves oil-based makeup, sunscreen and sebum on contact, turning milky when massaged with water, ready to rinse or wipe away, and is typically followed by a water-based cleanser as the second step of a double cleanse.
Who it suits
Moisturising balms tend to suit dry, very dry or dehydrated skin, and targeted use on rough patches such as elbows, cuticles or wind-chapped cheeks, though the richness can feel heavy on oily skin. Cleansing balms suit anyone wearing makeup or sunscreen daily, across most skin types, since dissolving these before a water-based cleanser tends to be gentler than a single harsher wash.
Cautions
The richness that makes a moisturising balm useful for dry skin can feel heavy or contribute to congestion on oily or acne-prone skin, so patch testing on a small area is sensible before regular use. Cleansing balms should generally be followed by a second, water-based cleanser rather than used alone, particularly if makeup or SPF is being removed, to avoid residue being left on the skin.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a cleansing balm and a moisturising balm?
- A cleansing balm is an oil-based product used to dissolve makeup and sunscreen and is rinsed or wiped away as the first step of a double cleanse. A moisturising balm is left on the skin as a rich final step to seal in hydration. Despite the shared name, they serve opposite roles in a routine.
- Is a balm too heavy for oily skin?
- A moisturising balm's richness can feel heavy on oily skin, so it is more commonly used on dry patches or as an occasional treatment rather than an everyday step for that skin type. Cleansing balms are generally fine for oily skin, since they are rinsed off rather than left on the surface.
- Do I need to wash my face after using a cleansing balm?
- Yes, most routines follow a cleansing balm with a second, water-based cleanser — this is the double-cleanse method — to remove any oily residue the balm leaves behind. Using a cleansing balm alone can leave a light film on the skin, particularly if a rich formula was used.
This is general information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. See our editorial policy for how we handle claims.