Budget Beauty: Three cleansing balms you can score for under P900
Until recently, I have only used micellar water as my makeup remover. It worked for me, so I never thought to try any other types. When I finally got to try a cleansing balm though, I became an instant convert! I loved how easily it removed the makeup from my face, without needing to make several passes with a cotton pad.
Balm or sherbet cleansers are essentially oil-based makeup removers in solid form. This is a good option if you don’t like runny formulas. The balm slowly melts when applied and massaged into the skin, and because it’s oil-based, it can remove even waterproof makeup. The ease of use made me wish I’d converted to cleansing balms earlier. If you haven’t tried one yet, I highly recommend that you start with these balms that cost less than P900.
Remember: you only need to use a bit at a time, so even a small jar may be able to last you for a good, long while!
Banila Co. Clean It Zero (P890 / 100ml from Banila Co.)
This popular cleansing balm is probably responsible for starting the whole the balm cleansing trend in Asian beauty. And it’s no wonder, too - the award-winning product remove the most stubborn waterproof mascara with zero effort, and leaves the skin feeling clean without compromising hydration! I love how this emulsifies off my face with water, though one does have to be careful about getting this on the eyes as it can sting.
Tony Moly Aquaporin Sherbet Cleanser (P548 / 90g from Tony Moly)
It smells lemony fresh and has a sherbet-like texture similar to Banila Co’s. It works well for regular makeup but may take longer to use on waterproof makeup. It also feels a bit heavier than the other balms, so make sure to wash up well with a foaming cleanser after use. It has a lovely lemon scent that just wakes the senses up!
In Her Element Cleansing and Nourishing Balm (P595 / 30g from inherelement.ph)
Full disclosure: this is the balm that completely changed my life! It removes even the most stubborn, waterproof mascara off my face like a dream, and all I use are two pea size amounts all over my face for a quick cleanse. It’s also a super sulit buy because aside from working as a makeup remover, the balm can be reapplied after cleansing to use as a moisturizer for dry patches (lips, heels, elbows, you name it)! Plus, the choco-vanilla scent is heavenly.
It doesn't emulsify like the Tony Moly or Banila Co., but it is a simpler formula - just six ingredients from organic sources. I just wipe it off with tissue before proceeding with my facial wash.
Whichever balm you choose to use, make sure you double-cleanse by washing with a facial wash after! Have you tried cleansing balms yet? What are your favorites?
