

Cleansing balms have become super popular recently due to their ability to effectively remove makeup, impurities, and excess oil from the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Not only do they give your skin a really thorough cleanse, but they also leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. So today I’m going to list the best drugstore cleansing balms that are on the market right now, and of course these are all vegan and cruelty free (which means that I’m not going to be including any products that are tested on animals here)!
But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right product for your skin, especially if you’re on a budget. That’s why in this post, I will be exploring, in depth, the best drugstore cleansing balms for your skin. I rounded up some of the top-rated and highly recommended drugstore cleansing balms that are both affordable and effective. From soothing oat-based formulas to nourishing oils, there’s a cleansing balm for every skin type and concern!
Shop the Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms:
Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, this list of the best drugstore cleansing balms will help you find a thorough and gentle cleanser but without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a list of higher end products, I will plan to do a similar post for Sephora brands soon, so keep looking out for that. This post is specifically for more budget friendly brands and products!
Without further ado, let’s dive into all of these amazing products!
Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms: Full List
1. Byoma Melting Balm Cleanser

The Byoma Melting Cleansing Balm has gained a devoted following as one of the best drugstore cleansing balms out there! This balm-to-oil cleanser is designed to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities while nourishing the skin. The formula contains a blend of plant-based oils and botanical extracts, carefully selected to provide a deep cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
This product has a very rich and velvety texture that transforms into a silky oil upon contact with the skin, and I have to say that this product is probably the best drugstore cleansing balm out of all of these amazing products on this list (in my opinion). As it melts away makeup and impurities, the balm gently emulsifies and rinses off easily with water, leaving no residue behind. It effortlessly dissolves even stubborn, long-wearing makeup, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an effective and gentle makeup remover.
What makes this product one of the best drugstore cleansing balms you can buy is its emphasis on skincare benefits. The formula is infused with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E, shea butter, and various botanical extracts known for their soothing and moisturizing properties. These ingredients help to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier and leave it feeling soft, supple, and refreshed after cleansing. The balm also offers a subtle aromatic experience, with a calming and uplifting scent that adds to the overall indulgence of the cleansing ritual. The Byoma Melting Cleansing Balm is a luxurious and effective cleanser that leaves the skin clean, nourished, and pampered.
2. Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm – Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms
Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms on the market because it cleanses your face thoroughly while still being amazingly gentle on your skin. This cleansing balm is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients such as camellia oil, shea butter, and sea buckthorn oil. It comes in a 100-gram jar and is suitable for all skin types.
This is a great product to use for removing makeup, dirt, and impurities from your face. It is designed to melt into your skin, effectively dissolving all traces of makeup and grime. The balm also contains antioxidants, which help to protect your skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays.
One of the great things about the Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is its texture. It has a soft, buttery consistency that feels luxurious on your skin. It’s easy to apply and feels gentle and non-abrasive. After applying the balm, it emulsifies with water and turns into a milky texture, making it easy to rinse off without leaving any residue on your skin. It is truly one of the best drugstore cleansing balms you can find!
In conclusion, the Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is a great product for anyone looking for an effective and gentle way to cleanse their skin. It’s made with natural ingredients and is suitable for all skin types. The balm has a lovely texture and is easy to apply, making it an enjoyable part of your skincare routine. If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that can effectively remove makeup and impurities without irritating your skin, the Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is definitely worth trying.
3. Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm
The Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm is a popular skincare product designed to gently remove makeup, impurities, and excess oil from the skin. The balm is formulated with a combination of natural oils, such as eucalyptus, clove, and jojoba, that work together to dissolve makeup and unclog pores, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth.
One unique feature that makes this Versed product one of the best drugstore cleansing balms is its ability to transform from a solid balm into a silky oil when massaged onto the skin. This transformation allows the product to effectively dissolve makeup and impurities without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. Additionally, the balm is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and does not contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances.
To use the Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm, simply scoop a small amount of the product onto your fingertips and massage it onto dry skin. As you massage, the balm will transform into a silky oil that melts away makeup and impurities. Once you have thoroughly massaged the product onto your skin, rinse it off with warm water and gently pat your skin dry.
Overall, the Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm is a highly effective and gentle skincare product that is perfect for anyone looking to remove makeup and impurities from their skin without stripping it of its natural oils. With its unique formula and easy-to-use application, it’s no wonder why so many people consider this product to be one of the best drugstore cleansing balms!
4. Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm – Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm is a gentle and nourishing skincare product that effectively removes makeup, impurities, and excess oil from the skin. This product is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms because it’s formulated with a combination of natural ingredients, such as oat kernel oil, colloidal oatmeal, and sweet almond oil, that work together to soothe, moisturize, and protect your skin!
One of the unique features of the Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm is its ability to maintain the skin’s natural barrier while effectively cleansing it. This cleansing balm is suitable for all skin types, and does not contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances, making it one of the best drugstore cleansing balms out there.
To use this product, simply scoop a small amount of the product onto your fingertips and massage it onto dry skin. As you massage, the balm will transform into a silky oil that effectively removes makeup and impurities. Once you have thoroughly massaged the product onto your skin, rinse it off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm is a super effective and gentle skincare product that is perfect for anyone looking to cleanse and nourish their skin. With its natural ingredients and gentle formula, this is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms and is a great addition to any skincare routine.

5. Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm
One of my personal favorite features of the Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm is its rich and velvety texture. The balm melts effortlessly into a smooth oil upon contact with the skin, making it really enjoyable to use. Its lightweight consistency spreads easily and effectively dissolves even the most stubborn makeup, dirt, and impurities. The balm emulsifies beautifully with water, transforming into a milky texture that rinses off effortlessly, leaving no residue behind – one reason why this is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms!
What sets this cleansing balm apart is its star ingredient, purple ginseng. Known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, purple ginseng helps to revitalize and rejuvenate the skin, leaving it looking radiant and refreshed. The balm also contains a blend of botanical extracts and oils that nourish and moisturize the skin, promoting a soft, supple, and healthy complexion.
In my experience, this product is an absolute gem that has elevated my skincare routine to new heights, and is for sure one of the best drugstore cleansing balms on the market right now. Its effective formula effortlessly removes makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin, leaving it radiant and refreshed. The luxurious texture and delightful sensory experience make every use a moment of self-care and indulgence. If you’re on the hunt for a cleansing balm that ticks all the boxes, I highly recommend giving the Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm a try—you won’t be disappointed.
Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms – Continued:
6. e.l.f. Holy Hydration Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
The e.l.f. Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms that is designed to gently cleanse and moisturize the skin. This product is formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients – like hyaluronic acid and ceramides – that work together to hydrate, plump, and soothe the skin.
One of the unique features of the e.l.f. Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm is its lightweight texture that melts onto the skin and effectively removes makeup and impurities without leaving a greasy residue. This cleansing balm is gentle enough for every skin type, including sensitive skin, and does not contain any parabens, sulfates, or phthalates, which is one reason why it’s one of the best drugstore cleansing balms out there.
To use this cleanser, simply scoop a small amount of the product onto your fingertips and massage it onto dry skin. As you massage, the balm will transform into a silky oil that effectively removes makeup and impurities. Once you have thoroughly massaged the product onto your skin, rinse it off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
The e.l.f. Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm is a highly effective and gentle skincare product that is perfect for anyone looking to cleanse and moisturize their skin. In my opinion it is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms out there, and with its nourishing ingredients and lightweight texture, this product is a great addition to any skincare routine.
7. Juno & Co Clean 10 Cleansing Balm
This item from Juno & Co is a skincare product that claims to remove all traces of makeup, dirt, and impurities from your face while being gentle and nourishing for your skin. It comes in a 2.82 oz jar and works for all skin types, and it’s the best drugstore cleansing balm that you can find on Amazon!
The Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is formulated with 10 natural plant oils that work together to cleanse your skin while providing hydration and nourishment. These plant oils include argan oil, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, and sunflower seed oil, among others. The balm also contains vitamin E and C to help protect your skin from environmental stressors and provide antioxidant benefits, making it one of the best drugstore cleansing balms for nourishing your skin.
One of the unique features of the Juno & Co Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is its texture. It has a buttery consistency that melts into your skin, effectively dissolving all traces of makeup and dirt. It emulsifies with water, turning into a milky texture that is easy to rinse off, leaving your skin feeling clean and hydrated.
Another great thing about the Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is that it is cruelty-free and vegan. It is also free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, making it a safe and gentle option for those with sensitive skin.
In conclusion, the Juno & Co Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms for anyone looking for a gentle and effective way to cleanse their skin. It is made with natural plant oils that provide hydration and nourishment for your skin. The balm has a lovely texture that is easy to apply and rinse off, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. If you’re looking for a cleansing balm that is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harmful chemicals, the Clean 10 Cleansing Balm is definitely worth trying.
8. Cocokind Oil To Milk Cleanser – Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms
Although this isn’t technically a “balm”, I had to include it on the list since it’s by one of my absolute favorite cruelty free brands, Cocokind! This is a skincare product that cleanses your face thoroughly while also being gentle and super nourishing for your skin. It comes in a 2.9 oz bottle and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
The Oil to Milk Cleanser is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms and it’s formulated with a blend of natural ingredients such as sunflower oil, castor oil, and oat extract. It is designed to be used as a two-step cleanser, where you apply the oil to your dry face first, massage it in, and then add a little water to emulsify it into a milky texture. This emulsification process allows the cleanser to effectively remove dirt, makeup, and impurities from your skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
One thing about the Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser that makes it one of the best drugstore cleansing balms is its gentle formula. It is free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and synthetic preservatives. The natural ingredients used in the formulation are all carefully chosen to be gentle on your skin and provide nourishing benefits. I love that Cocokind uses such great ingredients in their products and I personally think that that alone makes the brand worth checking out.
In conclusion, the Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms for anyone looking for a gentle and effective product to cleanse their skin. It is made with natural ingredients that provide nourishment for your skin while effectively removing dirt and impurities. The cleanser is gentle enough for sensitive skin and comes in eco-friendly packaging, making it a great option for those who are conscious of their environmental impact. If you’re looking for a natural and gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses your skin, the Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser is definitely worth trying.
9. Skin & Lab Pore Barrier Face Cleansing Balm
This is a popular skincare product that is designed to cleanse the skin and remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil. This cleansing balm is unique in that it contains a special formula that helps to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, which is important for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. It is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms that is made with natural ingredients, including shea butter, olive oil, and rosehip oil, which work together to nourish and soothe the skin.
One of the standout features of the Skin & Lab Pore Barrier Face Cleansing Balm is its ability to effectively remove even the most stubborn makeup and impurities from the skin. The balm has a thick, creamy texture that melts into the skin upon application, making it easy to massage into the pores and thoroughly cleanse the skin. It is also gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and does not leave any residue or tightness after use, which is why it’s one of the best drugstore cleansing balms (in my opinion).
Another key benefit of the Skin & Lab Pore Barrier Face Cleansing Balm is its ability to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. The skin’s barrier is responsible for protecting the skin from external stressors, such as pollution and UV rays, as well as helping to retain moisture. By strengthening this barrier, your skin is better equipped to maintain its hydration levels and protect against environmental damage.
The Skin & Lab Pore Barrier Face Cleansing Balm is an effective and nourishing skincare product that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. Its gentle yet effective formula, combined with its ability to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, make it one of the best drugstore cleansing balms and a popular choice for a cleanser!
10. Milani Green Goddess Makeup Melter Cleansing Balm
This Milani product is a popular skincare product that is designed to effectively remove makeup and impurities from the skin. This is another one of my personal favorite drugstore cleansing balms – it is made with natural ingredients, including hemp seed oil, moringa oil, and green tea extract, which work together to nourish and soothe the skin while effectively cleansing it.
One of the standout features of the Green Goddess Makeup Melter Cleansing Balm is its ability to gently and effectively remove even the most stubborn makeup from the skin. The balm has a smooth, buttery texture that melts into the skin upon application, allowing it to effectively dissolve makeup and impurities without the need for harsh rubbing or scrubbing. This makes it a really great choice and one of the best drugstore cleansing balms for anyone with sensitive skin or who might be looking for a gentle yet effective makeup remover.
Another key benefit of this product is its ability to nourish and soothe the skin. The balm is enriched with natural oils and extracts, which work together to hydrate and calm the skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and refreshed. This makes it an excellent choice for those with dry or sensitive skin, as it can help to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier and protect against environmental stressors.
Overall, this is an excellent skincare product that is one of the best drugstore cleansing balms in my opinion. It fully cleanses the skin while also nourishing and soothing it. Its gentle yet effective formula, combined with its natural ingredients, make it a popular choice among skincare enthusiasts who are looking for a gentle and effective way to cleanse their skin.
Best Drugstore Cleansing Balms: Final Thoughts
Overall I think this is a pretty good comprehensive list of some of the best drugstore cleansing balms on the market right now. If you’ve been reading my site for a while, you probably know that I don’t use or promote any brands or beauty products that have been tested on animals, so this list is completely cruelty free (to my knowledge) and vegan! There are products ranging in price, so hopefully you were able to find one that will work out for you and your personal budget.
If there are any good products that I missed and you think I should add to this list, definitely comment them below so I can look into them!
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Thank you for reading my list of the best drugstore cleansing balms! I hope that you found this post helpful, and that you have an idea of one or two new products that you want to try out.
Ashley says
What a fantastic list, Caitlin! I honestly haven’t heard of cleansing balms before, so it was really neat to learn about those and I love that you only promote clean, cruelty-free products here, so I know I can trust what you share! 🙂
Wishing you a fantastic week, my friend! 🙂
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