Among the best drugstore cleansing balms out there — the ones that melt into a smooth liquidy texture upon application — we have done thorough research on products that are gentle and suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin.

Drawing from our experience, cleansing balms deeply purify the skin by removing grime, excess oil, and pollutants, by leveraging their rich texture and buttery consistency. Many drugstore cleansing balms contain moisturizing ingredients, that prevent the skin from drying out during the cleansing process. They help balance the skin's natural oils, making them suitable for both dry and oily skin types. They are easy to use and mess-free, offering a convenient solution for daily makeup removal and cleansing. By thoroughly cleansing your skin, a cleansing balm prepares your skin to absorb the benefits of other skincare products more effectively. By removing impurities and keeping your pores clean, cleansing balms can help reduce the likelihood of acne breakouts. Some cleansing balms contain calming ingredients, providing a soothing effect on the skin, and making them suitable for those with sensitive or irritated skin. They are often more budget-friendly than high-end alternatives, offering quality skincare at a reasonable price.

We will dive deep into the world of affordable and accessible options that promise to effectively cleanse and nourish your skin. Whether you're a skincare enthusiast on a budget or simply looking for a trustworthy drugstore alternative, this comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights and recommendations. So, without further ado, let's embark on this exciting journey and uncover the best ones that could revolutionize your skincare routine.

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  Best for Skin Hydration

  BANILA CO Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

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This popular cleansing balm is a game-changer in your daily skincare routine. Its unique texture transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil upon contact with your skin, gently melting away even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, dirt, and excess oil. It is enriched with natural botanical extracts, such as acerola, and papaya, and a potent herbal complex, which work together to provide deep cleansing and nourishment to your skin. These powerful ingredients help to purify and brighten your complexion, leaving it looking radiant and revitalized.

2

Best No Breakout Formula

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm

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Formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients, this cleansing balm gently dissolves heavy makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin's natural moisture. It is powered by a unique blend of sunflower and ginger root oils, which help to cleanse the skin and unclog pores. Infused with papaya extract, this balm also provides gentle exfoliation, revealing smoother and brighter skin. Not only does it effectively remove makeup, but it also nourishes and hydrates the skin. Enriched with moringa seed extract, it helps to protect the skin against environmental stressors, while avocado oil and kiwi fruit extracts are harnessed to provide a boost of hydration.

3

Best for All Skin Types

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

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Infused with the power of hyaluronic acid, this cleansing balm not only removes heavy makeup, dirt, and impurities but also provides intense hydration to your skin. It gently melts away even the most stubborn makeup, leaving your skin clean, refreshed, and moisturized. Its unique formula effortlessly dissolves makeup, including waterproof formulas, without tugging or irritating your skin. With its lightweight and non-greasy texture, this cleansing balm provides a luxurious and pampering experience.

4

Best No Residue Formula

HEIMISH All Clean Balm

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This Korean makeup cleansing balm by Heimish is a one-stop solution for all your cleaning needs. With its balm-to-oil formula, it effortlessly removes makeup, dirt, and impurities, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. It gently dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, making it an ideal choice for makeup enthusiasts. Not just a makeup remover, this versatile balm also doubles as a face wash. Its deep-cleansing properties penetrate deep into your pores, effectively removing excess oil, sebum, and impurities that can clog your skin. The result is a visibly clearer and smoother complexion.

5

Best Budget-friendly Product

CeraVe Cleansing Balm for Sensitive Skin

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CeraVe Cleansing Balm is a powerful and nourishing makeup remover that is specially formulated to cater to the needs of your delicate skin. With its blend of ceramides and plant-based jojoba oil, this cleansing balm provides a gentle yet effective cleanse, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. It is designed to melt away stubborn makeup and impurities, by miraculously dissolving even the most long-lasting products. Its rich and creamy texture glides smoothly onto your skin, instantly enveloping it in a comforting embrace. As you massage the balm onto your face, it transforms into a lightweight oil, effortlessly lifting away all traces of makeup and grime.

6

Best Deep Cleansing Formula

Physicians Formula Face Cleansing Balm

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This multi-purpose beauty essential is designed to deeply cleanse pores and remove impurities, leaving your skin feeling fresh and revitalized. Formulated with the power of matcha, this cleansing balm provides an ultra-nourishing and soothing treatment for your skin. The 3-in-1 formula allows you to effectively dissolve even the most stubborn makeup, leaving no residue behind. Not only does this cleansing balm effectively remove makeup, but it also works to deeply cleanse your pores, helping to prevent breakouts and improve overall skin clarity.

7

Best Unscented Product

The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm

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This rich balm is specifically formulated to gently cleanse your skin, leaving it refreshed and nourished. It is infused with powerful ingredients that work together to provide a thorough cleanse. The key ingredient, oat kernel oil, is known for its soothing properties and helps to calm irritated skin. It effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin feeling clean and balanced. This cleansing balm is also enriched with other skin-loving ingredients such as sweet almond oil and colloidal oatmeal. Harmoniously, they moisturize your skin, while also reducing redness and inflammation. With regular use, it can help to improve the overall appearance of your skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthier.

8

Grace & Stella Cleansing Balm

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With its innovative formula, the Grace & Stella Cleansing Balm removes even the most stubborn makeup, while still being gentle on the skin. It effectively dissolves makeup without stripping away essential moisture, ensuring that your skin stays hydrated and balanced. Rich in antioxidants, this cleansing balm not only removes makeup but also helps to soothe and protect your skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, it is suitable for all skin types. It is free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer a more natural skincare routine.

9

Best for Sensitive Skin

Albolene Cleansing Balm

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Formulated with the goodness of shea butter and jojoba oil, this cleansing balm gently leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed. It relinquishes your skin of dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping away its natural moisture. It is not just a makeup remover, but also a fantastic, makeshift face wash. Its creamy texture transforms into a luxurious lather upon contact with water, effectively cleansing your skin and leaving it feeling fresh and revitalized. The combination of shea butter and jojoba oil helps to replenish and restore your skin's natural barrier, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.

10

Best Travel-friendly Product

[heimish] All Clean Balm

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This natural facial cleansing balm is designed to provide a double cleansing, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Formulated with gentle aroma oils, this cleansing balm effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities from your skin without causing any irritation. Its smooth and silky texture effortlessly melts away even the most stubborn makeup, leaving your skin clean and nourished. It is specifically created for sensitive skin, ensuring a gentle and non-abrasive cleansing experience. With its natural ingredients, it helps to maintain your skin's natural moisture levels, preventing dryness and tightness.

11

Farmacy Makeup Remover Cleansing Balm

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This balm cleanser is designed to gently and effectively remove makeup while keeping your skin feeling fresh and clean. With its fragrance-free formula, this makeup-melting balm is perfect for those with sensitive skin. It effortlessly melts away all traces of makeup, including stubborn mascara and long-wearing foundation, leaving your skin soft, supple, and makeup-free. It is made with clean, high-quality ingredients that nourish and hydrate the skin. Infused with sunflower oil, ginger root oil, and turmeric root extract, this balm cleanser helps to soothe and calm the skin, while also providing antioxidant protection. Not only does this cleansing balm effectively remove makeup, but it also helps to unclog pores and remove impurities, leaving your skin looking refreshed and revitalized. Its luxurious texture glides smoothly onto the skin, melting away makeup and leaving behind no residue.

12

Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm

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Designed to effectively remove all traces of makeup and impurities, this balm cleanser is suitable for all skin types. Formulated with nourishing ingredients such as eucalyptus oil and vitamin E, this cleansing balm not only removes makeup but also leaves your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. This milk cleanser gently cleanses your skin without leaving any residue behind. One of the standout features of this product is its eye-safe formula that you can confidently use to remove eye makeup without any irritation or discomfort.

13

Best Gentle Formula

Neutrogena Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

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Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm is designed to effortlessly remove even the most stubborn makeup, revealing a clean and refreshed complexion. Its silky texture glides onto your skin, transforming into a luxuriously slick oil that effectively breaks down makeup and lifts away dirt and excess oil. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients, this cleansing balm not only cleanses but also nourishes your skin. It contains powerful antioxidants and hydrating agents that help to replenish and moisturize your skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and revitalized.

Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best drugstore cleansing balms, glance through our buying guide to make an informed purchase.

To help you make an informed decision, here are some key factors to consider when buying a cleansing balm.

Skin Type: The first and most crucial factor to consider when buying a cleansing balm is your skin type. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, there are cleansers specifically formulated to address your unique needs. Look for labels that indicate which skin types the cleanser is suitable for, and choose accordingly. 

Specific Skin Concerns: If you have specific skin concerns like acne, aging, or hyperpigmentation, consider a cleanser that addresses those issues. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in cleansers for oil or acne-prone skin. For anti-aging benefits, opt for cleansers that contain antioxidants like vitamin C or retinol. And if you struggle with hyperpigmentation, go for cleansers with ingredients like kojic acid or niacinamide.

Ingredients: Pay attention to the ingredients used in the cleansing balm. Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, as they can irritate and strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, opt for cleansers that contain gentle and nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, green tea extract, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can help soothe, hydrate, and protect your skin.

pH Balance: Maintaining the natural pH balance of your skin is crucial for its overall health. Look for a facial cleanser with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5, as this range is considered optimal for most skin types. Avoid cleansers that are too alkaline or acidic, as they can disrupt the skin's protective barrier and cause irritation. 

Fragrance: While a light fragrance can enhance your skincare experience, it's important to note that added fragrances can potentially irritate sensitive skin. If you have easily irritated skin or are prone to allergies, opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented cleansers.

Price: While it's important to invest in high-quality skincare products, it doesn't mean you have to break the bank. Set a budget and look for facial cleansers that fit within that range. 

By considering these factors and listening to your skin's needs, you'll be one step closer to achieving healthy and radiant skin.

Always begin with clean, dry hands and a dry face. Remove any excess makeup using a makeup remover wipe or micellar water before proceeding. This step allows the cleansing balm to work more effectively, as it can focus on deeply cleansing your skin rather than removing surface makeup.

Step 1: Take a small amount of the cleansing balm onto your fingertips and gently massage it onto your dry face in circular motions. Make sure to cover all areas, including the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. The balm will melt into an oil-like consistency as it comes into contact with your skin, effectively breaking down makeup, dirt, and impurities.

Step 2: Once you've massaged the cleansing balm thoroughly, wet your hands slightly and continue massaging your face. This will emulsify the balm, turning it into a milky consistency. This step helps lift away all the impurities from your skin.

Step 3: After emulsifying the balm, it's time to rinse it off. Use lukewarm water and gently splash your face to remove the product. You can also use a damp face cloth or sponge to wipe away the balm. Ensure that all traces of the balm have been thoroughly removed to prevent any residue from clogging your pores.

Step 4: For a complete skincare routine, follow up with a gentle facial cleanser to remove any remaining impurities and ensure your skin is thoroughly cleansed. This step helps to balance your skin's pH levels and prepares it for the next steps in your skincare routine.

Step 5: After cleansing, it's crucial to replenish your skin's moisture barrier. Apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration and provide nourishment to your skin. Additionally, don't forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

When it comes to finding the best drugstore cleansing balms, there are several excellent options available. These products offer a convenient and effective way to remove makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin. From their affordable price tags to their impressive performance, drugstore cleansing balms have proven to be a valuable addition to any skincare routine. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, there is a drugstore cleansing balm out there that can meet your specific needs. So, take your pick from our recommended options and enjoy clean, refreshed, and radiant skin without breaking the bank.