7 Best Cleansing Balms for Dry Skin in 2026
Choosing the right cleansing balm for dry skin in 2026 involves understanding key factors such as ingredients, texture, and effectiveness at removing makeup and dirt without stripping moisture. While many products promise hydration and gentle cleansing, not all deliver consistent results or suit sensitive skin. It’s important to evaluate formulas with nourishing components like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, and consider eco-friendly packaging. Here’s a clear overview of the top options available now that can help you make an informed choice that benefits your skin’s health.
JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm 85g
- An uncomplicated list of only 10 ingredients
- Rinses clean, leaving zero residue
- Non-irritating ingredients lend a fresh scent
The JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm 85g is a simple way to clean sensitive skin. It has only 10 clean ingredients. This makes it gentle and safe to use every day. The balm easily melts makeup and dirt. It rinses away cleanly and leaves no greasy feel. Its rinse-away formula helps keep your skin fresh and clean.
This balm has Japanese Pearl Barley Magic+ inside. It helps smooth skin and adds moisture. Vitamin E stands guard against skin aging. To use, just put the balm on dry skin. Massage it gently to loosen makeup and dirt. Then rinse well with water. Your face will feel clean and refreshed.
This product is good for people with sensitive skin who want a gentle and effective makeup remover. It is safe to use daily and works well without harsh ingredients.
Pros:
- Only 10 simple, safe ingredients. Perfect for sensitive skin
- Rinses off completely—no sticky or greasy residue
- Contains Japanese Pearl Barley Magic+ to smooth and hydrate skin
Cons:
- Might not remove really heavy or waterproof makeup very well
- Only 10 ingredients means it might miss some targeted skincare ingredients
- You may need to massage longer to remove stubborn dirt, which takes some time
This balm is a good choice if you want a gentle, clean, and safe way to remove makeup every day.
e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm
- NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM: Watch your makeup melt away! It’s solid cleansing balm that melts into a luxurious oil and turns into a nourishing milk texture...
- INFUSED WITH HYALURONIC ACID: Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and plumped with hydration.
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: The Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm is perfectly compatible with all skin types.
If you want a cleansing balm that removes makeup well and keeps your skin hydrated, try e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm. This balm softens from a solid into a nourishing oil, then turns into a silky milk. It’s easy to rinse away dirt and makeup. The formula has hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides. These ingredients help keep your skin moist, plump, and smooth. It works for all skin types, including dry skin. It’s good for double cleansing routines too.
The product is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. It has certifications from Leaping Bunny and PETA. This means it’s made without animal testing and animal products.
Good For: People with dry or sensitive skin who want a gentle, hydrating, makeup-melting cleanser that works on all skin types.
Pros:
- Clears away makeup and dirt while adding moisture
- Changes from a balm to oil, then to milk, making cleaning easy
- Contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides to hydrate and plump skin
Cons:
- You might need to double cleanse if you wear heavy makeup
- Less effective on waterproof or very long-wear makeup
- Packaging might not be as eco-friendly, especially if it uses a plastic dispenser
CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover with Jojoba Oil
- [ CLEANSING BALM FOR FACE ] CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm, enriched with three essential ceramides, removes stubborn makeup without a greasy residue,...
- [ EYE MAKEUP REMOVER WITH JOJOBA OIL ] This gentle yet effective makeup remover balm incorporates jojoba oil, leaving skin smooth, soothed, and radiant....
- [ FOR SENSITIVE SKIN ] Designed for sensitive skin, this makeup cleansing balm combines jojoba oil for face and ceramides for hydration without irritation. Free...
CeraVe Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover with Jojoba Oil is a gentle and effective way to clean your face. It works well for people with dry or sensitive skin. This balm easily dissolves waterproof makeup, dirt, oil, and impurities. It leaves your skin feeling smooth, clean, and fresh without any greasy feeling.
This product is good for all skin types, especially if your skin is dry or easily irritated. It contains ceramides that help repair your skin’s natural barrier. It also has jojoba oil that keeps your skin moist and soothing. The formula is free from parabens, fragrances, and alcohol. It’s non-comedogenic and allergy-tested, so it’s safe for daily use and travel.
Best for: People with dry, sensitive, or easily irritated skin who want a gentle makeup remover that keeps skin hydrated.
Pros:
- Removes waterproof makeup, dirt, and oil easily
- Nourishes skin with ceramides and jojoba oil
- Fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Might feel a little oily after use
- Needs to be rinsed well to remove any leftover balm
- Can be a bit more costly than simple cleansers for daily use
This balm is a good choice if you want a soft and hydrating way to clean your face. It cleans deeply and keeps your skin healthy and comfortable.
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
- This 3-in-1 travel size cleansing treatment is the essential first step in your daily skincare routine that leaves your skin clean and soft. Infused with...
- Remove makeup, grime, and dirt with the mineral oil-free formula that cleanses, softens, and nourishes the skin.
- Warm a pea-sized amount between palms. Massage over face, neck and décolleté. Remove with a damp cloth. Use daily as a cleanser or weekly as a facial mask.
The ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover is made for people with dry skin. It helps clean your face gently but works well. This small travel-sized jar is easy to take with you everywhere.
This balm does three things. It removes makeup, dirt, and grime. It also helps keep your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. The formula has no mineral oil. It contains natural oils from lavender, chamomile, and starflower. These oils soothe and nourish your skin.
To use, warm a little of the balm in your hands. Massage it over your face. Then, wipe it off with a damp cloth. You can use this balm every day. It can also be used once a week as a mask. This makes it a helpful product to keep your skin healthy.
This product is best for people with dry skin. It is gentle and nourishing. It is not ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Since it is a balm, some people may find the feel different from liquid cleansers. Also, you need a damp cloth to wipe it away, which adds one extra step to your routine.
Dr.Althea Cleansing Balm with Madecassoside
- HYGIENIC & EASY TO USE : This cleansing balm has an innovative grinding mechanism built into the packaging and a sorbet-like texture to ensure hygienic and...
- ONE-STEP CLEANSER : Effortlessly remove sunscreen, makeup, and even waterproof products with just a small amount. Cleanse both the surface and deep layers of...
- CLEANSE & HYDRATE : Enriched with Madecassoside and plant-based oils, our formula not only excels in cleansing but also enhances your skincare routine by...
The Dr. Althea Cleansing Balm with Madecassoside is gentle and works for all skin types. It’s vegan and safe for sensitive skin. The balm has a soft, non-greasy sorbet texture that feels nice during use. It uses a special grinding system that keeps it clean without touching your hands. This helps stop germs from spreading.
This cleansing balm removes makeup, sunscreen, and waterproof products in just one step. It gets deep into skin to clear away dirt from the surface and deep inside. Madecassoside, a plant extract, helps soothe and hydrate your skin. It leaves your skin feeling soft, moist, and not tight.
The formula doesn’t have artificial colors, fragrances, or parabens. It’s a safe and eco-friendly choice that cleans well without stripping your skin of moisture.
Best For: People who want a gentle, effective, and eco-friendly cleanser. It’s good for any skin type, especially sensitive skin.
Pros:
- The grinding system keeps it clean without touching your hands.
- Cleans away makeup, sunscreen, and waterproof products in one step.
- Contains plant oils and Madecassoside to hydrate and nourish skin.
Cons:
- It may take a moment to activate the grinding at the start.
- It costs a bit more than regular cleansing oils or balms.
- People who like scented or artificial products might not prefer it.
This balm is easy to use and helps keep your skin healthy and clean.
Garnier Erase It All Cleansing Balm with Hyaluronic
- Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm: This cleansing balm has been formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to cleanse & gently remove all types of longwear makeup: eye,...
- Cleanses With 24H Hydration: Thanks to its formula powered by Hyaluronic Acid, our cleansing balm makeup remover leaves skin looking plumper instantly and over...
- For Best Use: To remove makeup & cleanse skin, massage a generous amount of cleansing balm into dry skin using circular motions. Add water to create a milky...
If you want a cleansing balm that removes makeup well and keeps your skin hydrated, Garnier’s Erase It All Cleansing Balm with Hyaluronic Acid might be a good pick. It works to take off all kinds of longwear and waterproof makeup. Plus, it gives your skin 24 hours of moisture.
You can use it as a makeup remover, a morning face wash, or even a face mask. It has a smooth texture that feels silky. When you add water, it turns into a milky lotion, making it easy to rinse off completely. It doesn’t have any fragrances, sulfates, or silicones. So, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Some people might notice the scent is a bit strong or artificial. Others might feel it irritates their eyes or doesn’t work well for all eye makeup. If you have sensitive eyes, use it carefully and see how your skin reacts.
Who should try this: People who want a good, hydrating makeup remover. It’s especially helpful if you wear waterproof or longwear makeup. But if you have very sensitive eyes, check how it feels before using it every day.
Pros:
- Takes off waterproof and long-lasting makeup easily.
- Keeps skin moist for up to 24 hours.
- Nice, smooth texture that turns into a milk when water is added.
- Free from fragrances, sulfates, and silicones, making it gentle for sensitive skin.
Cons:
- Some people think the scent is too artificial.
- Might cause some eye irritation or discomfort.
- Not always perfect for removing all types of eye makeup.
e.l.f. SKIN Mini Hydrating Cleansing Balm
- NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM: Watch your makeup melt away! It’s a solid cleansing balm in a mini size that melts into a luxurious oil and turns into a nourishing...
- INFUSED WITH HYALURONIC ACID: Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and plumped with hydration.
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: The Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm is perfectly compatible with all skin types.
The e.l.f. SKIN Mini Hydrating Cleansing Balm is a fun and easy way to clean your face. It melts away makeup and dirt without drying out your skin. The balm feels solid at first, but it turns into a gentle oil and then a milk-like liquid when you massage it on your skin. This makes it simple to rinse off.
The best part is that it helps keep your skin moist and healthy. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides. These ingredients help your skin stay plump and soft after cleaning. The mini size makes it perfect to carry in your bag or for travel. You get a gentle clean anytime you need it.
This product works well for all skin types. It removes makeup without making your skin feel tight or dry. But if you wear waterproof or stubborn makeup, you might need to use it again. The balm may take a little time to fully melt, especially on dry skin. If your skin is very oily or acne-prone, use it in small amounts so your skin stays comfortable.
In short, the e.l.f. SKIN Mini Hydrating Cleansing Balm is a quick, gentle, and nourishing way to clean your face. It’s good for busy days and keeps your skin feeling fresh and soft.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cleansing Balms for Dry Skin
When choosing a cleansing balm for dry skin, it’s important to focus on hydrating ingredients that help retain moisture and support the skin’s barrier. You should also consider formulations that are gentle, typically oil-based, and suitable for sensitive skin types, avoiding harsh chemicals or fragrances that can cause irritation. Additionally, understanding whether your skin prefers a water-based or oil-based product can guarantee effective cleansing without stripping away essential natural oils, ultimately promoting healthier, more comfortable skin.
Hydrating Ingredients
Choosing a cleansing balm for dry skin is easier when you look for certain ingredients. Find formulas with hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients help attract and hold moisture in your skin while you cleanse. This keeps your skin from getting drier. Plants oils, like jojoba or squalane, can also help. They soothe, nourish, and calm dry skin. This stops irritation and keeps your skin hydrated.
Avoid cleansers with harsh surfactants or alcohol. These ingredients can strip away your skin’s natural oils. That can make dry skin worse. Instead, look for ingredients like ceramides and Madecassoside. These help strengthen your skin’s barrier. A stronger barrier keeps more moisture inside.
You can also choose cleansers with calming plant extracts. Chamomile or oat extract can reduce irritation and boost hydration. They make the cleansing process gentle and good for sensitive, dry skin.
Pick products that focus on hydration. Look for gentle formulas that support your skin’s health. This way, your skin stays soft, smooth, and comfortable after cleaning.
Gentle Formulations Preferred
Choosing a gentle cleansing balm for dry skin is simple once you know what to look for. First, check the ingredients. Avoid products with harsh chemicals like sulfates, alcohol, or strong fragrances. These can irritate your skin and make it feel even drier.
Instead, pick a balm with nourishing ingredients. Look for plant oils, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides. These help keep your skin’s moisture in and protect it while you clean. Next, choose a product that doesn’t foam. Non-foaming, hydrating balms are better because they don’tleave your skin feeling tight or dry after washing.
It’s also good to find a balm with calming botanicals like chamomile or elderflower. These can soothe sensitive, dry skin. Lastly, go for products with simple, clean ingredient lists. This makes it less likely to cause irritation and suits sensitive skin well.
Oil-Based vs Water-Based
Choosing between oil-based and water-based cleansing balms depends on your skin and how you want to feel after cleaning your face.
Oil-based balms break down heavy makeup and extra oil. They are good for dry skin because they add moisture while cleaning. After using them, your skin feels soft, hydrated, and comfortable.
Water-based balms are lighter. They rinse away easily with water. These are good for sensitive or dehydrated skin that doesn’t want much residue. Water-based balms don’t need extra cleansing steps, so they help keep your skin natural and fresh.
Pick the type that fits your skin and how you like the texture and feel. If your skin needs more moisture, try an oil-based balm. If you want a quick, gentle clean, water-based may work better.
Both types clean your skin well, so choose what feels best for you.
Skin Type Compatibility
When choosing a cleansing balm for dry skin, pick a product that matches your skin’s needs. Look for ingredients that add moisture, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or plant oils. These help keep your skin soft and strong. Choose a balm labeled for sensitive or dry skin to help prevent irritation and tightness after cleaning. Try to avoid alcohol, artificial scents, and harsh chemicals. These can remove too much moisture and make your skin dry.
Some good nourishing ingredients are jojoba oil, shea butter, or Japanese Pearl Barley. They make your skin feel soft and comfortable. Pick a balm with a creamy or sorbet-like texture. These are gentle on your skin but still clean well. They won’t dry out your face, leaving it feeling hydrated and fresh.
Fragrance-Free Options
Have you thought about how scents can bother dry or sensitive skin when washing your face? Fragrance-free cleansing balms are a good choice. They don’t have artificial smells that can cause irritation. Many of these balms contain gentle ingredients like plant oils and ceramides. These help keep your skin hydrated and protect your skin’s barrier. Using products without scent can help prevent allergic reactions and lessons redness or dryness. People with sensitive or dry skin often find fragrance-free options more comfortable. These balms clean your skin softly without leaving it tight or dry. Skin experts recommend choosing fragrance-free cleansers if your skin reacts badly to scents. This helps keep your skin healthy and calm after cleaning.
Ease of Rinsing
Picking a cleansing balm that washes off easily is important. It helps you remove makeup and dirt without leaving any soap or sticky stuff behind. When a balm turns into a smooth milk or oil, it helps take off makeup faster and easier. This kind of balm makes rinsing simple and quick.
Look for balms that are lightweight and water-soluble. These rinse away with just water and leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated. Using lukewarm water makes the rinsing even better. It helps dissolve the balm fully, so your skin is clean and comfortable.
Rinsing well is key. When you don’t rinse enough, leftover balm can clog pores or cause a tight feeling on your skin. Choosing a balm that rinses fast and completely stops that. It keeps your skin happy, clean, and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cleansing Balms Suitable for Sensitive Dry Skin?
Yes, cleansing balms suit sensitive dry skin because they gently remove dirt and makeup without stripping moisture. Look for fragrance-free, soothing ingredients like oat extract or chamomile to guarantee they’re gentle and nourishing for your skin.
How Often Should I Use a Cleansing Balm?
You should use a cleansing balm once or twice daily, preferably in the evening to remove makeup and dirt. Adjust based on your skin’s needs, ensuring you don’t over-strip or irritate your sensitive, dry skin.
Can Cleansing Balms Cause Breakouts or Irritation?
Cleansing balms can cause breakouts or irritation if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Always patch-test new products, choose gentle formulas, and avoid harsh ingredients to minimize the risk of adverse reactions and keep your skin healthy.
Do Cleansing Balms Hydrate as Well as Cleanse?
Yes, many cleansing balms hydrate while cleansing because they contain emollients and nourishing oils that lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft, comfortable, and thoroughly clean without stripping essential hydration.
Are There Natural or Organic Cleansing Balm Options?
Yes, you can find natural or organic cleansing balms packed with botanical extracts, essential oils, and nourishing ingredients. These balms effectively cleanse while being gentle and eco-friendly, perfect for hydrating, dry skin without synthetic chemicals.
Last update on 2026-01-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API