BREAK UP WITH YOUR MAKEUP WIPES

Written By Tiffany Lumpkin

A PIVOT TO CLEANSING OILS & BALMS

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Just like many of us are breaking up with makeup wipes and falling in love with cleansing balms, life often asks us to pivot too. The power of the pivot is real — it’s not about starting over, it’s about choosing better for where you are now.

So if you’re ready to make the switch too, here are my top cleansing balms and cleansing oils that I swear by:

Drugstore / Affordable Finds (Under $20)

  1. CeraVe Comforting Cleansing Balm
    → Gentle, fragrance-free, dermatologist-approved.
    Melts makeup and sunscreen while protecting your moisture barrier — perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

  2. e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
    → Budget-friendly dupe for pricier balms.
    Contains hyaluronic acid and peptides for hydration while removing makeup easily.

Mid-Range Staples ($20–$49)

  1. Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
    → Fragrance-free, non-irritating, and dermatologist-loved.
    Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive and reactive.

  2. Dermalogica Precleanse Cleansing Oil

    → A pro-favorite first cleanse that cuts through heavy makeup and SPF with ease.

    • Lightweight oil that emulsifies instantly with water.

  3. AMOREPACIFIC Treatment Cleansing Oil

    → Luxury meets performance in this antioxidant-rich formula.

    • Infused with green tea, ginseng, and bamboo sap for a nourishing cleanse.

  4. Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
    → Iconic, rich, spa-in-a-jar.
    Deeply nourishing, aromatic, and transformative for dry or mature skin.

  5. Balaeyon Dew Away Cleansing Gel Makeup Remover
    → Hybrid texture: balm meets gel.
    Leaves skin dewy, clean, and hydrated — a new favorite for those who want a lighter balm.

Luxury Cleansing Rituals ($50+)

  1. Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm
    → Science-meets-skin therapy.
    Features the brand’s signature TFC8® complex for barrier repair and glow.

  2. Tatcha The Camellia Cleansing Oil (Balm Alternative)
    → Silky oil-to-milk formula for those who prefer liquid textures.
    Balances oil production and nourishes skin with Japanese camellia oil.

Tiffany’s Pro Tips for Using a Cleansing Balm

  • Warm a small amount in clean dry palms before applying.

  • Massage gently in circular motions — take your time; this is the ritual part.

  • Then rinse with lukewarm water or remove with a soft cloth.

  • Follow with a gentle cleanser for a complete double cleanse and if your extra fancy triple cleanse with a nice micellar water like one one BioDerma or CeraVe.

Tiffany Lumpkin
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