Falling Under the Cleansing Balm Spell

There are so many types of cleansers out there there days. I, like many of you have tried a number of them. Most of my decision making has come from standing at the cosmetic counters or perusing through the aisles at the drug store.

My skincare routine has primarily included a foaming cleanser and toner followed by sunscreen and moisturizer. And when my allergies act up (especially in the Spring and Fall), I tend to use eye cream.

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal properly titled You’re Probably Washing Your Face Wrong couldn’t come out at a better time.

 The fixation on cleanliness ingrained in us early on may be to blame for our collective desire for immaculate skin. “[Squeaky clean] is not a sign of skin health…our obsession with that feeling is disrupting and destroying our skin’s barrier….” 

Dr. Whitney Bowe
New York City dermatologist and author of “Dirty Looks.”
Quoted in the Wall Street Journal

A good cleanser and a good cleansing routine is what works best for you. If your cleanser makes you feel soft, clean and fresh then you’ll most probably found the right one for you.

Well, I think I have finally found a cleanser that works for me – the cleansing balm. Cleansing balms are rich, creamy cleansers that remove dirt and makeup from your skin while maintaining the moisture in your skin, i.e., your skin will not feel dry.

Beautycounter offers two cleansing balms:

The Cleansing Balm is a nourishing daily cleanser that hydrates with nutrient-rich raspberry and cranberry seed oils and promotes a brighter complexion with radiance-boosting vitamin. You can use it as a cleanser, which is what I do or even as an overnight mask.

The Counter + Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm includes lotus extract, jojoba seed oil and avocado seed oil.

I’ve recently started using the balm. It can be left on as an overnight mask as well.

For me, the cleansing balm feels like the right fit. As a person who tends to experience dry skin (especially during fall and winter), my skin feels soft and clean even the following morning.

Of course, everyone has a cleansing routine that works for them. What’s your cleansing routine? Are you part of the balm movement? If so, what your favorites?