Ditch the Wipes: Why Cleansing Balms Are Better for Your Skin

3

Aggressive makeup wipes can damage your skin. Dermatologists now recommend cleansing balms as a gentler, more effective way to remove makeup and protect your skin’s health.

For years, many people relied on makeup-remover wipes for convenience. But recent expert advice suggests these wipes are far from ideal. Dermatologists are finding that frequent wipe use can actually worsen skin issues like acne and inflammation.

The problem with wipes: They often leave residue behind, don’t fully cleanse, and physically irritate the skin. The harsh rubbing action strips away natural oils, damaging the skin barrier. This weakens the skin’s defense, making it more prone to breakouts and redness.

Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a board-certified dermatologist, explains: “Makeup remover wipes do not properly cleanse your skin… They also are damaging to our skin barrier… The act of wiping and rubbing is the worst.”

The solution? Cleansing balms. These oil-based formulas gently dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and dirt without harsh rubbing. They nourish the skin instead of stripping it.

“Cleansing balms are my go-to for removing makeup. These tend to be more effective and gentle on the skin… They do not strip away the skin barrier and can even nourish the skin.” – Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky

Here are five recommended cleansing balms:

  1. The Inkey List oat cleansing balm
  2. Juno and Co. Clean 10 cleansing balm

Switching to a cleansing balm is a simple way to improve your skin’s health. If you are experiencing breakouts, inflammation, or dryness, consider making the change today.