Dry skin demands more than a basic face wash—especially when sunscreen and waterproof makeup need to come off at the end of the day. Harsh cleansers can strip away the very oils your skin needs to stay comfortable, leaving tightness and flaking behind. Oil-based cleansing balms have become a go-to first step for solving this problem, transforming from solid to silky oil to lift impurities while preserving hydration.
How we choose
This article highlights eight useful cleansing balms that address the specific challenge of removing long-wear makeup without compromising dry skin's moisture barrier. Each product offers a distinct approach to the same goal, spanning different price points, ingredient philosophies, and format preferences.
Our 8 Picks
FarmacyMakeup Remover Cleansing Balm - Green Clean Waterproof Makeup Remover Balm + Oil Cleanser for Face - Gently Melts Make Up + SPF - Hydrates + Softens Skin with Super Greens + Papaya (100ml)
What it is
An oil-based cleansing balm that melts waterproof makeup and sunscreen while hydrating skin with super greens and papaya extract.
Why it's worth it
The balm transforms from a solid to a silky oil that lifts heavy foundation and mascara without tugging; it's well suited to dry skin needing a moisture-preserving first cleanse. The brand states it's clinically proven to remove over 99% of longwear foundation and waterproof mascara. A plant-powered formula with upcycled moringa, holy basil, and arugula helps support a soft, refreshed feel.
Caveat
Contains natural fragrance from lime, bergamot, and orange, which might not suit those who prefer completely unscented products.
BANILA COClean it Zero Original Cleansing Balm | Korean Makeup Remover, Cleansing Oil, Facial Cleanser for All Skin Types | Vegan | Made with Acerola Berry & Vitamin C (100ml / 3.38 fl. oz)
What it is
A sherbet-textured Korean cleansing balm that turns into an oil to dissolve makeup and impurities.
Why it's worth it
Its balm-to-oil formula breaks down even stubborn eye makeup, making it a good fit for double-cleansing routines that target dehydrated skin. Acerola berry and vitamin C provide antioxidant hydration while keeping the cleanse gentle. The brand notes the formula is vegan and designed to leave no oily residue after emulsifying with water.
Caveat
Contains fragrance; those with fragrance sensitivities may need to patch test.
CliniqueTake The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover | Dissolves Face + Eye Makeup and Sunscreen | For All Skin Types
What it is
A fragrance-free solid balm that transforms into an oil to thoroughly melt face and eye makeup.
Why it's worth it
It's well suited to dry or sensitive skin because it rinses off completely without stripping moisture, leaving skin feeling soft and comfortable. The brand states it achieves over 95% removal of face makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants in one step. Ophthalmologist-tested for safe use around the eyes, it doesn't leave a greasy film.
Caveat
The tub format may expose the formula to air and require a spatula for hygienic use.
ELEMISPro-Collagen Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover, Hydrating Facial Cleanser, Oil Cleanser, Oil Makeup Remover, Deep Cleanse
What it is
A 3-in-1 oil-based cleansing balm that removes makeup and nourishes skin with a signature aromatic blend.
Why it's worth it
Infused with lavender, chamomile, and other botanicals, it melts long-wear makeup and daily grime into a milky emulsion, making it a good fit for mature or very dry skin seeking a conditioning cleanse. The brand recommends leaving it on as a weekly mask for extra nourishment. Its mineral oil-free formula aims to soften and hydrate without clogging pores.
Caveat
The aromatic essential oil blend may not suit extremely reactive skin types.
Drunk ElephantSlaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser - 110 g/3.88 oz - Cleansing Balm - Clean Clinical Skincare - Cruelty-Free - Dermatologist-Tested - Free of Essential Oils, Silicones, and Fragrance
What it is
A butter-to-oil cleanser that dissolves waterproof makeup and sunscreen with a blend of African oils and fruit extracts.
Why it's worth it
Free of essential oils, silicones, and fragrance, it's well suited to dry, sensitive skin that needs a gentle yet thorough cleanse. The formula includes marula, baobab, and Kalahari melon seed oils to help soften and maintain skin barrier moisture while melting impurities. The brand suggests adding the included Bamboo Booster for light exfoliation once or twice a week.
Caveat
The tub size is compact, so daily use may deplete it faster than larger balms.
Emma HardieStarter Kit: Travel Size 50ml Moringa Cleansing Balm, Travel Size 15ml Midas Touch Revitalising Cream & Professional Cleansing Cloth, Packed in a Cosmetic Bag, Natural & Cruelty Free
What it is
A travel-size set containing a 50ml Moringa Cleansing Balm, Midas Touch Revitalising Cream, and a dual-sided cleansing cloth.
Why it's worth it
The Moringa Cleansing Balm inside this kit is the brand's signature oil-based cleanser, designed to melt away makeup and impurities while delivering moisture with moringa seed oil and essential fatty acids. It's a good fit for someone new to the product or wanting a portable introduction to the brand's hydrating first-cleanse step. The included professional cleansing cloth—with a microfibre and muslin side—assists in gentle removal and light exfoliation.
Caveat
This is a starter kit, not the full-size balm; the balm quantity is 50ml, which may not last as long as the standalone 100ml version.
Then I Met YouLiving Cleansing Balm, Makeup Remover, Cleansing Oil, Face Cleanser, Melts Makeup & Sunscreen, Non-Stripping Zero Residue Oil Cleanser, First-Step Clean Vegan Korean Skincare
What it is
A sorbet-soft cleansing balm that melts makeup and sunscreen with a blend of grape seed, olive, and seaberry oils.
Why it's worth it
Its non-stripping formula is well suited to dry and dehydrated skin, as the brand emphasizes zero residue and a hydrated finish. The addition of persimmon and vitamin E is intended to help brighten and even skin tone over time. A vegan, cruelty-free balm that rinses cleanly, it works well as the first step in a double-cleanse.
Caveat
Contains natural oils that may separate slightly in warmer temperatures; store in a cool place.
HEIMISHAll Clean Balm 4.0fl.oz/120ml - Cleansing Balm, Waterproof Makeup Remover, Face Cleanser, Oil Based Cleanser, Korean Skincare with Natural Aroma Oil, Vegan, For All Skin Types
What it is
A multi-step cleansing balm that transforms from balm to oil to milk to remove waterproof makeup and impurities.
Why it's worth it
Enriched with shea butter and a blend of natural essential oils like lavender and tea tree, it helps lift heavy makeup while the brand states it improves skin hydration by over 108% immediately after use. The formula is dermatologist-tested with 0% irritation, making it a good fit for sensitive dry skin that needs a gentle yet effective cleanse. It also includes a soft exfoliating effect from coconut extract.
Caveat
The inclusion of multiple plant oils and fragrance may not be ideal for those with fragrance allergies.
How to choose
How to choose the right oil-based cleansing balms for dry skin that remove makeup without stripping moisture
Takeaway
The right cleansing balm depends on how your dry skin interacts with fragrance, your budget, and whether you value simplicity or multi-functional steps. Each product here removes makeup while supporting hydration—choose based on the specific ingredient approach and practical format that fits your routine.
