What is in this category
Balms are rich, mostly waterless products made from plant oils, butters and waxes. This category lists organic cleansing and body balms and several skincare collections that combine a balm with other products, such as cleansers, serums and moisturisers. The collections can work out cheaper than buying items separately, so compare the total price with the single products.
Cleansing balms
A cleansing balm melts on the skin and dissolves makeup, sunscreen and grime. To use one:
- Scoop a small amount with a clean, dry spatula or fingers.
- Warm it between your fingertips and massage over dry skin.
- Add a splash of warm water so it turns milky, if the product is designed to.
- Remove with a warm, damp flannel or muslin cloth, then rinse.
Cleansing balms suit dry and normal skin well. If your skin is oily or acne prone, check the ingredients and patch test, as rich oils do not suit everyone.
Body balms
A body balm works best on skin that is still slightly damp after a shower or bath, when it spreads further and sinks in more easily. A little goes a long way. Pay attention to dry areas such as elbows, knees and heels.
What to check
- Ingredients. Look for nut oils and butters if you have allergies, and essential oils if fragrance irritates your skin.
- Size and price per ml. Balms are concentrated, so a 50ml pot lasts longer than a lotion of the same size.
- Packaging. Pumps keep a product cleaner than open jars.
Storage
Balms soften in heat and can melt on a sunny windowsill or next to a radiator. Keep them cool, close the lid after use and avoid dipping wet fingers into the jar, which lets water and bacteria in. If a balm smells stale or rancid, replace it. For oils to make your own blends, see essential oils; for buffing products, see exfoliators.
Common mistakes
- Using too much. Balms are concentrated. A large scoop leaves skin greasy and wastes product; start small.
- Skipping the rinse. A cleansing balm left on the skin can feel heavy. Remove it with a warm cloth and rinse well.
- Storing it in the shower. Heat and steam soften the balm and splashes let water into the jar. Keep it in a cool cupboard.
- Assuming a collection is always cheaper. Add up the prices of the items you would actually use before choosing a gift set or collection.
Common questions
Is a cleansing balm suitable for oily skin?
It can be, as oil dissolves oil, but rich balms do not suit every oily or acne prone skin. Patch test first and rinse thoroughly after use.
Can a cleansing balm remove eye makeup?
Many people use them that way. Keep it out of the eyes, check the product’s instructions, and stop if your eyes sting or become irritated.
How long does an opened balm last?
Check the period after opening symbol on the pack, a small open jar with a number of months. Store it cool and closed, and replace it if it smells stale.