Double cleansing—removing makeup, dirt, sunscreen, grease and grime with an oil-based cleanser first, then following with a traditional water-based cleanser tailored to your skin’s specific needs—is the gold standard for a healthy complexion. Micellar water, liquid oils and wipes can technically work as a first step, but if you’re over 40, the extra nourishment a velvety cleansing balm delivers is worth it.
Here’s why: Cleansing balms use oils and emollients to melt away makeup and buildup—no harsh scrubbing or tugging required (two big ways to worsen fine lines and wrinkles). Formulated with vitamin E, plant and seed oils, shea butter, bisabolol and ceramides, they cleanse without stripping the skin or compromising the moisture barrier, leaving skin soft and supple after rinsing. Solid and dense, they’re also mess-free and travel-friendly.
Of course, not all cleansing balms are created equal. When it comes to formulas that work best on aging skin, shoppers over 40 are clear on four that do it all—reducing dryness, minimizing the look of fine lines and helping skin appear firmer and plumper. Below, the best cleansing balms for mature skin, according to shoppers 40 and over.
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Promising Review
“I struggled to find a makeup remover that worked for me. Wipes and oils never did the trick, but this balm removes all my makeup easily and leaves my skin clean and ready for additional products. Super hydrating and doesn’t irritate my eyes or skin at all.”
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Promising Review
“This is one of my favorite cleansing balms. It effortlessly melts away makeup, even stubborn waterproof products, while nourishing the skin with a blend of hydrating oils and marine extracts, leaving my skin feeling clean and not greasy after removing it.”
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Promising Review
“The Cleansing Balm by Augustinus Bader has truly set a new standard for me. From the very first use, it was clear that this product was in a league of its own. The balm itself has a luxurious, buttery texture that melts effortlessly into the skin, dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without any harsh rubbing. What sets this cleansing balm apart is how it leaves my skin feeling: not just clean, but deeply hydrated and refreshed.”
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Promising Review
“This is the holy grail of makeup removers! I am 40 years old with dry skin and wanted something that would remove makeup and eye makeup in one step without over-drying. This stuff is PERFECT. The smell is light and wonderful too!”
