Why Cleansing Balm Deserves a Place in Every Routine

A cleansing balm is a type of facial cleanser with a balm-like texture, ideal for removing daily impurities, including makeup, grime and sunscreen, without leaving skin feeling stripped or dry. It's often used as the first step in a double-cleansing routine, creating a clean canvas for applying a more targeted second cleanser. A signature of ELEMIS spa treatments, our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm has a distinctive rich, buttery texture, transforming into an oil once warmed by the skin and then emulsifying into a milk with water. Our balm is also non-comedogenic, so it's much less likely to clog pores compared with other versions.

When Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm launched in 2013, it became an instant classic. With its efficient cleansing, nourishing hydration, 3-in-1 texture and signature scent, it changed the beauty game – setting a new benchmark for cleansers by transforming a daily routine into a luxurious, spa-like ritual. In the years that followed, cleansing balms became a beauty mainstay, inspiring countless imitator along the way. More than a decade later, the original continues to resonate – as popular on TikTok as it is in The Times, with beauty editors consistently rating it their go-to cleanser. It’s won over 80 awards globally and is currently the UK’s No.1 Cleansing Balm.

Cleansing balm is designed to deeply cleanse skin without stripping it, and works by using a blend of oils and emulsifiers. While the oils break down and dissolve oil-soluble makeup, SPF, sebum and daily grime, the emulsifier creates a milky texture that allows the formula to be effectively rinsed or wiped away with water.  The 3-in-1 texture of our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm begins as a comforting balm, transforming to an oil on contact with the skin to remove dirt and makeup, before transforming again with water into a hydrating milk.

• A deep cleanse – it melts away makeup, SPF and dirt without stripping the skin
• Ultimate comfort – it cleanses gently and supports the skin’s moisture barrier
• Nourishing moisture – it contains plant oils that leave skin feeling soft, supple and hydrated
• A transformative texture – the buttery balm melts into an oil, then a milk for optimum cleansing
• A sensory ritual – its indulgent, spa-like scent turns an everyday routine into a moment you look forward to.

There’s a reason Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is the UK’s No.1 cleanser – it comes with impressive clinical results. Not only is it clinically proven to melt away waterproof and long-wear makeup, it also strengthens the skin’s barrier and delivers instant hydration.^

Then, there’s the ingredients. In place of mineral oils, Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm uses a trio of nourishing plant oils, including elderberry, Optimega™ (our proprietary blend of wheatgerm and oat oil), and bee-friendly British starflower oil. These are combined with our super-hydrating algae padina pavonica, to promote soft and glowing skin.

Now for the scent everyone raves about – that spa-in-a-jar aroma. Our original balm contains the ELEMIS signature blend of 9 essential oils, including lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus, to invigorate the senses – and we’ve extended the range to explore other transformative aromas, from our quintessential English Rose, to juicy Black Cherry and Mediterranean Green Fig.

Lastly, Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a skincare multitasker. As well as the unique 3-in-1 texture, it can also be used as a mask overnight – try it weekly and feel the difference.

Myth: cleansing balm causes breakouts

Not true! A cleansing balm can actually help avoid breakouts. Because it cleanses deeply without stripping, it effectively removes any breakout-causing build-up while supporting balanced skin.

Myth: cleansing balm isn’t suitable for oily skin

Using a thick, richly textured cleansing balm might feel counter-intuitive if you have oily skin – but Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is non-comedogenic, so when we say it’s suitable for all skin types, even oily complexions will benefit from the lasting comfort and hydration.

Myth: cleansing balm is only for people who wear makeup

It’s not just makeup that needs taking off. An oil-based cleansing balm is excellent for removing sunscreen and daily grime, regardless of whether you wear makeup or not.

How to Use a Cleansing Balm: A Step-By-Step Routine

Here’s how to how to use our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm as part of your daily face wash routine:

• With clean, dry hands, scoop out a small amount of balm to warm between your fingers
• Apply to your dry face, gently massaging in soothing circles for 30 seconds. You can extend this for a couple of minutes if you need a mindful moment. Take care to lightly massage the eye and lip area until makeup starts to break down
• Add a little water to emulsify and soften the balm, then continue massaging for up to a minute
• Wet a clean cotton cloth with warm water and wipe away the balm in sweeping motions as it cleanses
• If you’ve been wearing heavy makeup, you may need to re-soak and repeat until all the balm has been wiped away and your face feels clean and refreshed.

From our spa treatments to your at-home ritual, Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is the ideal first cleanse in any skincare routine. It can be used alone, but if you’re into double cleansing (we’re big fans), we can’t recommend it enough. It melts away the day’s build-up, prepping your skin for a more targeted second cleanse that suits your skin type or concern. If you’re using an ELEMIS routine, here’s what we’d suggest as a second cleanser:

If you want to revitalise a dull complexion: our water-based gel cleanser Superfood Facial Wash is brimming with nutrient-rich superfoods and natural prebiotics to maintain a healthy skin barrier

If you want to target uneven skin tone and texture: try the Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash, a creamy gel cleanser that gently exfoliates using enzyme technology.

If you’re concerned about dry skin: opt for our Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse, – clinically proven to increase skin hydration by 125% after just one use.**

Every one of our cleansing balms has the same 3-in-1 texture, but offers a different sensory experience. Choose the Original for its signature blend of lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus. Our much-loved Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm comes infused with the scent of modern English Rose, while the Black Cherry and Green Fig editions offer juicy, fresh fruit aromas. And if you prefer a scentless formula, the Fragrance-Free edition is ideal.

Is Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm Suitable For Every Skin Type?

Yes. Dry skin will love the feeling of lasting hydration Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm leaves on the skin (even after a double cleanse). And because it’s non-comodegenic, it’s suitable for oily skin, too, because it cleanses without stripping or irritating the skin barrier. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend the Pro-Collagen Fragrance-Free Cleansing Balm, which retains the beautiful texture and hydrating effects, but removes any essential oils that could irritate.

Are You Supposed to Wash Off a Cleansing Balm?

Yes – washing off your cleansing balm helps remove makeup and impurities, leaving skin feeling smooth and clean without being stripped of any natural oils. However, if your skin is craving a facial, you can leave Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm on your skin as a mask. Try it for 20 minutes before washing it off with warm water.

Can You Use a Cleansing Balm Every Day?

Cleansing balm is the perfect everyday cleanser as it is gentle yet thorough. In addition to helping balance the skin’s pH level, it protects the skin's natural moisture barrier, so with each use you can feel the difference it makes.

Do I Need a Cleansing Balm If I Don’t Wear Makeup?

Even if you don’t wear makeup, you should never go to sleep at night without clearing off the daily pollution, dirt and dead-skin build-up that can clog pores. If your daily routine involves just a dab of moisturiser and SPF, you still need to cleanse and replenish for the next day.

Can I Double-Cleanse with a Cleansing Balm?

Yes, you can double-cleanse with a cleansing balm if you want to - it will do no harm. However, we recommend a cleansing balm for your first cleanse to break up and clean the skin of sweat, grime, makeup and SPF, and a different cleanser for your second cleanse to treat your specific skin concern, be that dryness, uneven texture or blemishes.

How Do I Use a Cleansing Balm Around My Eyes?

Our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is formulated and tested by ophthalmologists to make it safe for use on your face, including around your eyes. If you know you have particularly sensitive skin, opt for our Pro-Collagen Fragrance-Free Cleansing Balm, as this protects the delicate eye area while still removing any mascara or eye makeup.

Can Cleansing Balm Cause Breakouts?

Contrary to what you may think, cleansing balm does not cause breakouts. In fact, it can help avoid them. As it’s made to give your skin a deep clean, cleansing balm gently but effectively removes stubborn makeup, dirt, oils, sunscreen and impurities, without stripping away your skin’s natural oils. This helps maintain a balanced skin environment and ensures any breakout-causing build up is removed. So, while its thick and rich texture might feel intimidating if you have breakouts or oily skin, you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t have to miss out - cleansing balm is great for all skin types.

The key difference between these various types of cleansing wash is their texture and the skin type they're designed for. While cleansing balm has a thick, creamy texture and contains emulsifiers to help it turn into a milk when mixed with water, a cleansing oil has a fluid, lightweight consistency. Both balm and oil are suitable for all skin types. A cleansing mousse, like Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse is a light, airy foam that's best for removing the impurities that linger after your first cleanse. A cleansing wash can be gentle, hydrating or purifying, depending on its formula. This is the classic gel texture used in many everyday face washes, but each one is unique, so determining its suitability depends on your specific skin type.

Can A Cleansing Balm Remove Blackheads or Help with Acne?

Acne-prone skin can benefit from a cleansing balm, as it removes the dirt and pollution that might settle into skin. With each use, blackheads and clogged pores should begin to loosen, helped with the physical exfoliation of a cleansing cloth. If you're prone to blocked pores, try using cold water to remove your cleansing balm – this causes the pores to close, keeping impurities away.

Can Cleansing Balm Improve Skin Texture?

Cleansing balms provide a gentle yet thorough cleanse without leaving your skin feeling greasy or stripped. They are uniquely formulated with rich, moisturising ingredients that nourish the skin and help protect your natural moisture barrier. This means that, as opposed to traditional cleansers, they can help improve your skin texture by keeping it hydrated, balanced and supple. Giving your face a massage as you apply your cleansing balm can also help promote cell turnover, improving blood circulation and aiding lymphatic drainage to promote collagen production. This can all contribute to an improved skin texture.

^Independent Clinical Trials 2025.

*Source: Circana (UK) Ltd, Retail Tracking Service, Prestige Skincare Facial Cleanser Value and Unit Sales by Franchise, Prestige Brand Classification, 12 Months Ending September 2025.

**Measurement taken at 5 minutes. Independent Clinical Trial 2025. Results based on 21 people.