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Best Cleansing Balm For Acne (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a gentle and effective way to cleanse your skin while fighting acne, then a cleansing balm for acne might be just what you need. These balms are specially designed to remove impurities and excess oil from your skin, while also helping to prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking clear and healthy.

Before you invest in a cleansing balm for acne, there are a few important factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about your skin type and any specific concerns you may have, such as sensitivity or dryness. You’ll also want to look for a balm that contains natural and nourishing ingredients, such as antioxidants and essential oils, to help soothe and hydrate your skin.

To find the right cleansing balm for your needs, ask yourself some key questions. Do you struggle with frequent breakouts, or are you dealing with a particularly stubborn bout of acne? Are you looking for a more natural approach to skincare, or do you prefer products with powerful active ingredients? Whatever your priorities, there is sure to be a cleansing balm for acne that can help you achieve the clear, glowing complexion you’ve been dreaming of.

10 Best Cleansing Balm For Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for oily and sensitive skin, removes makeup and dirt, helps with acne, breakouts, redness and provides double cleanse.
2
Ideal for removing makeup, cleansing sensitive skin, and addressing acne, breakouts, and redness through a double-cleansing balm-to-oil formula.
3
Ideal for gentle, yet effective cleansing and hydration with non-comedogenic, acne-friendly, vegan and cruelty-free formula.
4
This product is ideal for deep cleansing pores, removing blackheads and as a makeup remover for combination and oily skin.
5
This product is ideal for removing makeup, hydrating the skin, and is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and non-greasy.
6
Ideal for acne-prone skin – helps refine texture, minimize appearance of pores, and cleanse away dirt and oil.
7
This product is ideal for deeply cleansing, soothing, and removing makeup and impurities from the skin.
8
Ideal for removing makeup and cleansing the face while also hydrating the skin due to the addition of hyaluronic acid.
9
This product is an oil-based cleanser that removes makeup and impurities from the face, promoting clean and healthy-looking skin.
10
This product is an ideal makeup remover for all skin types, providing gentle and nourishing cleansing with natural extracts.
Ideal for oily and sensitive skin, removes makeup and dirt, helps with acne, breakouts, redness and provides double cleanse.
Ideal for removing makeup, cleansing sensitive skin, and addressing acne, breakouts, and redness through a double-cleansing balm-to-oil formula.
Ideal for gentle, yet effective cleansing and hydration with non-comedogenic, acne-friendly, vegan and cruelty-free formula.
This product is ideal for deep cleansing pores, removing blackheads and as a makeup remover for combination and oily skin.
This product is ideal for removing makeup, hydrating the skin, and is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and non-greasy.
Ideal for acne-prone skin – helps refine texture, minimize appearance of pores, and cleanse away dirt and oil.
This product is ideal for deeply cleansing, soothing, and removing makeup and impurities from the skin.
Ideal for removing makeup and cleansing the face while also hydrating the skin due to the addition of hyaluronic acid.
This product is an oil-based cleanser that removes makeup and impurities from the face, promoting clean and healthy-looking skin.
This product is an ideal makeup remover for all skin types, providing gentle and nourishing cleansing with natural extracts.

1. Clean It Zero Purifying Balm Cleanser

Clean It Zero Purifying by BANILA CO is an innovative cleansing balm that gently removes makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Infused with soothing and balancing ingredients, this purifying formula is designed to calm, nourish and refresh the skin, leaving it feeling comfortable and healthy.

This cleansing balm is suitable for even the most sensitive skin types, thanks to its gentle and effective makeup melting power. It can dissolve all traces of makeup, including stubborn waterproof mascara, in just one step, without leaving any residue behind.

The Clean It Zero Purifying is enriched with 7 Natural Herbs that help to keep problem skin balanced and calm irritation. These herbs work together to soothe and nourish the skin, leaving it looking and feeling revitalized.

This cleansing balm is free from harmful ingredients, such as Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Mineral oil, Alcohol, and Artificial coloring. It is a safe and effective choice for anyone looking for a gentle but powerful cleansing solution.

BANILA CO is a leading beauty brand based in South Korea, with a direct headquarters located in the USA. They are committed to creating high-quality skincare products that deliver visible results and promote healthy, radiant skin.

Pros

  • Infused with soothing and balancing ingredients
  • Gentle and effective makeup melting power
  • Suitable for even the most sensitive skin types
  • Enriched with 7 Natural Herbs that help to keep problem skin balanced and calm irritation
  • Free from harmful ingredients
  • High-quality skincare brand with a commitment to promoting healthy, radiant skin

2. Purifying Balm For Sensitive Skin.

The Clean It Zero Purifying Cleansing Balm is a must-have for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleansing solution. This cleansing balm is infused with a blend of seven all-natural extracts, including stress-relieving herbs that help to keep problem skin balanced and calm any irritation. The formula is also enriched with active botanicals, hot spring water, vitamin E, and vitamin C, which work together to promote a healthy complexion.

What sets this cleansing balm apart from others on the market is that it is formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, alcohol, and artificial coloring. This means that you can trust that the Clean It Zero Purifying Cleansing Balm is safe for your skin and won't cause any harm or damage.

With its rich and luxurious texture, the Clean It Zero Purifying Cleansing Balm easily melts away makeup and impurities, leaving your skin feeling soft, clean, and refreshed. It is the perfect addition to any skincare routine, and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Infused with a blend of seven all-natural extracts, including stress-relieving herbs
  • Enriched with active botanicals, hot spring water, vitamin E, and vitamin C
  • Formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, alcohol, and artificial coloring
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin

3. Carrotene Hydromelt: Vegan Cleansing Balm

Say goodbye to blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes, and inflammatory acne with the Carrotene IPMP cleansing balm! Formulated with Carrotene IPMP, this cleansing solution improves oil and sebum production, resulting in clearer and smoother skin. It's a 2-in-1 cleansing solution that removes makeup and takes care of blackheads. This sorbet-like balm effortlessly melts away sunscreen, thick foundation, and waterproof eye makeup, leaving skin soft and smooth.

The Carrotene IPMP cleansing balm is made of 79% natural oils and transforms from balm to milk when in contact with water. It's gentle on the skin and does not sting the eyes or irritate the skin. This formulation cleanses deep within the pores, removing whiteheads and blackheads that cause breakouts, without leaving skin feeling dry or coated after rinsing.

This TSA-friendly cleansing balm remains a sorbet-like solid until it meets the skin, so it's convenient to carry with you wherever you go! Put it in a pouch or carry-on bag to keep your skin clean and fresh, even when you're on-the-go.

The Carrotene IPMP cleansing balm is free from artificial fragrance, colors, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, propylene glycol, PEGs, gluten, and mineral oil, making it ideal for all skin types.

Pros

  • Improves oil and sebum production for clearer and smoother skin
  • Effortlessly removes sunscreen, thick foundation, and waterproof eye makeup
  • Gentle formulation that does not sting the eyes or irritate the skin
  • Cleanses deep within the pores, removing whiteheads and blackheads that cause breakouts
  • Conveniently packaged as a TSA-friendly solid balm
  • Free from artificial fragrance, colors, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, propylene glycol, PEGs, gluten, and mineral oil

4. Hanskin's Blackhead Banisher Balm

Hanskin's Pore Cleansing Balm BHA is an innovative product developed by the inventors of K-Beauty's first BB Cream. It is a deep cleansing balm that is specially formulated for oily and combination skin types. This balm purifies and exfoliates the skin in a single step, leaving it cleaner and smoother than before.

This cleansing balm contains Beta Hydroxy Acid which works beneath the surface to unclog pores, target blackheads, and reduce excess oils. It effectively removes makeup, including waterproof makeup, without leaving any residue behind.

The solid balm texture of this product makes it mess-free, spill-proof, and travel-friendly. It provides a non-sticky and non-oily finish, making it perfect for people with oily and combination skin types. Additionally, it is paraben-free, dye-free, artificial fragrance-free, and alcohol-free, making it safe and gentle on the skin.

Pros

  • Effectively cleanses and exfoliates the skin in a single step
  • Contains Beta Hydroxy Acid that unclogs pores, targets blackheads, and reduces excess oils
  • Thoroughly removes makeup, including waterproof makeup
  • Solid balm texture makes it mess-free, spill-proof, and travel-friendly
  • Provides a non-sticky and non-oily finish, perfect for oily and combination skin types
  • Paraben-free, dye-free, artificial fragrance-free, and alcohol-free, making it safe and gentle on the skin

5. Cerave Hydrating Makeup Remover Balm

The CeraVe Hydrating Cleansing Balm is an effective makeup remover that gently cleanses the skin without leaving any greasy residue. The balm is enriched with 3 essential ceramides that help maintain the skin's natural barrier, making it suitable for sensitive skin. The gentle and effective formula removes even waterproof mascara and leaves the skin feeling smooth, soothed, clean, and radiant. The plant-based jojoba oil helps nourish and soften the skin after cleansing. The hydrating formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, soap-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

CeraVe's unique formula contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that are naturally found in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. This helps maintain the skin's natural barrier and keeps it hydrated, soft, and supple. The cleansing balm is developed with dermatologists and is part of CeraVe's range of skincare products that cater to different skin types, including dry, oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.

The CeraVe Hydrating Cleansing Balm is a great addition to your skincare routine if you're looking for an effective makeup remover that also hydrates and nourishes your skin. The gentle formula is suitable for sensitive skin and leaves your skin feeling clean, smooth, and radiant.

Pros

  • Contains 3 essential ceramides that help maintain the skin's natural barrier
  • Gentle and effective formula removes even waterproof mascara
  • Leaves skin feeling smooth, soothed, clean, and radiant
  • Plant-based jojoba oil helps nourish and soften the skin after cleansing
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, soap-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic

6. Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash With Blemish Control.

The Peace Out Blemish Balm is a cleansing balm that effectively washes away excess dirt, oil, and impurities from oily and blemish-prone skin. It is specially designed to prep the skin to fight pimples and is the perfect first step in the daily skincare routine. This gentle yet effective face wash deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and helps unclog pores to help skin better absorb acne-fighting ingredients.

This powerhouse formula uses a combination of physical and chemical exfoliation to refine skin texture and minimize the appearance of pores without stripping away your skin’s natural moisture barrier. It uses Salicylic Acid and Cellulose to provide a deep cleansing effect while ensuring that the skin is left hydrated and healthy-looking.

The Peace Out Blemish Balm is made with clean, vegan, and effective ingredients that are gentle on the skin. Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates and refines the look of pores, while Hyaluronic Acid smooths and hydrates the skin. Niacinamide helps even complexion, and Ceramides support the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

To use this cleansing balm, scoop out a little product and warm it in your palm with some water before massaging it into your face. The silky texture produces low lather as it cleanses and exfoliates for smoother, brighter, and more even-looking skin.

Pros

  • Effortlessly washes away excess dirt, oil, and impurities from oily and blemish-prone skin
  • Refines skin texture and minimizes the appearance of pores without stripping away skin's natural moisture barrier
  • Uses clean, vegan, and effective ingredients that are gentle on the skin
  • Gently exfoliates and refines the look of pores with Salicylic Acid
  • Smooths and hydrates the skin with Hyaluronic Acid
  • Helps even complexion with Niacinamide
  • Supports skin's natural moisture barrier with Ceramides

7. Pro-Collagen Ultra Nourishing Cleansing Balm

The Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a luxurious treatment balm that deeply cleanses, soothes, and removes makeup and impurities from the skin. This ultra nourishing balm can also be used as a facial mask to provide an extra boost of hydration and moisture to the skin.

Enriched with a blend of precious natural ingredients including Padina Pavonica, Elderberry Oil, Starflower Oil, and Optimega Oil, this balm helps to nourish and moisturize the skin while providing anti-aging benefits. It also contains a unique blend of essential oils, including Lavender, Chamomile, and Eucalyptus, which work together to soothe and calm the skin.

The Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil. To use, simply massage a small amount onto dry skin, then add warm water to emulsify the balm into a luxurious milk. Rinse off with water or a damp cloth for a clean, nourished, and radiant complexion.

Experience the luxurious and nourishing benefits of the Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm for yourself and enjoy a deeply cleansed, soothed, and radiant complexion.

Pros

  • Deeply cleanses and removes makeup and impurities from the skin
  • Ultra-nourishing treatment balm provides a boost of hydration and moisture to the skin
  • Contains a blend of precious natural ingredients and essential oils that nourish, soothe, and calm the skin
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil

8. Hydrating Makeup Melter: E.l.f. Holy Hydration! Balm

The Nourishing Cleansing Balm by e.l.f. is a solid cleansing balm that gently removes makeup and impurities with its luxurious oil and nourishing milk texture. It is formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides that leave the skin feeling silky smooth and plumped with hydration.

This cleansing balm is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile option for everyone. For that extra clean feel, it is recommended to double cleanse with your favorite e.l.f. cleanser such as the Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser.

Like all e.l.f. products, this cleansing balm is made from skin-loving ingredients that you want, minus the toxins that you don’t, all at good-for-you prices. It is also 100% cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great choice for those who prefer ethical beauty products.

Pros

  • Effectively removes makeup and impurities
  • Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides for silky smooth and hydrated skin
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Made with skin-loving ingredients and free from toxins
  • Cruelty-free and vegan

9. Luxe Oil Cleanser With Grape & Seaberry.

The Living Cleansing Balm is a sorbet soft cleansing balm and makeup remover that is specially formulated to dissolve all traces of long-wear formulas and water-resistant sunscreens while gently removing excess oils and impurities. It contains antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamin E that nourish the skin and provide it with a radiant glow.

To use, simply scoop a dime-sized amount of the balm onto dry skin using the spatula provided and gently massage in circular motions. Add a splash of warm water to emulsify and remove oil-based impurities. Rinse thoroughly to reveal clean, soft and hydrated skin.

The Living Cleansing Balm is free from harmful ingredients such as Polyethylene, mineral oil, alcohol, silicone, parabens, artificial coloring, and synthetic fragrance. It is also an award-winning product, having won the Allure Best of Beauty Award, Byrdie Skincare Award, Soko Glam Best of K-Beauty Award and more.

Pros

  • Effectively dissolves long-wear formulas and water-resistant sunscreens
  • Nourishes the skin with antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamin E
  • Gently removes excess oils and impurities
  • Comes with a spatula for easy application
  • Free from harmful ingredients
  • Award-winning product

10. Melting Makeup Melt – Gentle Cleansing Balm

The KIMTRUE Makeup Cleansing Balm is a multi-functional product that can quickly and effectively remove makeup, clean dirt and oil from inside the pores, and restore skin clarity. It is enriched with various moisturizing and nourishing ingredients, which help to nourish and moisturize the skin while removing makeup and keep the skin hydrated and healthy.

Unlike other makeup removers, the KIMTRUE Makeup Cleansing Balm does not require emulsification, and there is no need for a secondary cleanse. Simply wash with plenty of warm water to achieve a clean and refreshed feeling.

The texture of the makeup remover balm is soft and waxy, providing the skin with a silky touch like melting snow, which is gentle enough not to hurt the skin. The balm is formulated without minerals, alcohol, or artificial colors, making it safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Pros

  • Multi-functional product for makeup removal and cleaning
  • Enriched with moisturizing and nourishing ingredients
  • Does not require emulsification or a secondary cleanse
  • Soft and waxy texture for a gentle touch
  • Safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin

Best Cleansing Balm For Acne FAQs

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using a cleansing balm for acne, and how can I minimize them?

When it comes to using a cleansing balm for acne, there are a few potential side effects and risks that you should be aware of. First and foremost, some cleansing balms can be quite heavy and may clog pores, leading to further breakouts. Additionally, some people may be allergic to certain ingredients found in cleansing balms, which can cause irritation, redness, and other skin issues.

To minimize the risks associated with using a cleansing balm for acne, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure to choose a balm that is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and is non-comedogenic (meaning it won't clog pores). You should also patch test any new products before using them all over your face to check for any potential allergic reactions.

It's also important to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleansing technique when using a balm to avoid aggravating your skin further. And finally, make sure to follow up your cleansing balm with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated and balanced. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of a cleansing balm for acne without putting your skin at risk.

Can cleansing balms help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation?

Yes, cleansing balms can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Cleansing balms are formulated to deeply cleanse the skin, removing impurities and excess oil. They also contain nourishing ingredients that help to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. Some cleansing balms contain active ingredients such as salicylic acid, which is known to help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Other balms contain brightening ingredients like vitamin C, which can help to reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the production of melanin. It is important to note that while cleansing balms can be helpful in reducing the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation, they should be used in conjunction with other skincare products and a consistent skincare routine. It is also important to consult with a skincare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

How often should I use a cleansing balm for acne, and what is the best way to incorporate it into my skincare routine?

Cleansing balms are a great addition to any skincare routine, especially for those who suffer from acne-prone skin. The frequency of use largely depends on your skin type and the severity of your acne. However, it is generally recommended to use a cleansing balm once or twice a day.

To incorporate a cleansing balm into your skincare routine, start by using it as the first step of your double cleanse routine. Apply a small amount of the balm onto dry skin and massage it in circular motions to melt away makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Then, rinse it off with lukewarm water and follow up with a gentle foaming cleanser to remove any remaining impurities.

It's important to choose a cleansing balm that is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and contains ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil to help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Also, make sure to follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. With consistent use, a cleansing balm can help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.

What are some of the best cleansing balms for acne-prone skin, and what sets them apart from other options on the market?

When it comes to cleansing balms for acne-prone skin, there are a few key ingredients and qualities to look for. Firstly, it's important to find a balm that is formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or exacerbate breakouts. Secondly, ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil can be beneficial for calming inflammation and preventing future breakouts.

Some top options for cleansing balms for acne-prone skin include the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Purifying, which contains tea tree oil and salicylic acid, and the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm, which is formulated with nourishing ingredients like sunflower and ginger root oils.

Another standout option is the Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm, which is fragrance-free and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. Its lightweight formula effectively removes makeup and impurities without leaving any residue behind.

Overall, the best cleansing balms for acne-prone skin are those that are formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients and include acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil. It's also important to choose a balm that effectively removes makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.

What are the key ingredients in a cleansing balm for acne-prone skin?

When it comes to acne-prone skin, it's important to be very careful with the products you use. Cleansing balms can be a great option for this skin type, as they help to clean the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. There are several key ingredients that are particularly helpful in a cleansing balm for acne-prone skin.

Firstly, it's important to use a balm that is non-comedogenic, meaning that it won't clog pores. Look for ingredients such as shea butter or coconut oil, which are known for their moisturizing properties without being too heavy.

Another important ingredient to look for is salicylic acid. This is a beta-hydroxy acid that works to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, making it particularly effective for acne-prone skin.

Finally, look for a cleansing balm that contains antioxidants such as vitamin C or green tea extract. These ingredients help to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can exacerbate acne.

Overall, a cleansing balm for acne-prone skin should be gentle, non-comedogenic, and contain ingredients that help to exfoliate and protect the skin.

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