Cleansing oil and cleansing balm do the same essential job, but their textures, application and overall cleansing experience can feel completely different.
Here is how to choose the right first cleanser for your evening skincare routine.
THE QUICK ANSWER
Choose a cleansing oil for a lightweight, fluid daily cleanse.
Choose a cleansing balm for a soft, cushiony texture with more controlled application.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
Cleansing Oil vs Cleansing Balm
LIGHTWEIGHT & FLUID
Cleansing Oil
A fluid oil cleanser that spreads quickly across dry skin and emulsifies into a milky texture when water is added.
Best for:
- Daily sunscreen
- Light to medium makeup
- A quick evening routine
- Anyone who prefers a pump bottle
SOFT & CUSHIONY
Cleansing Balm
A soft balm cleanser dispensed directly from a tube. It glides across dry skin and becomes smoother and more oil-like as it is massaged.
Best for:
- Makeup and sunscreen removal
- A smooth, cushiony texture
- A controlled, non-dripping application
- Anyone who prefers tube packaging
FIND YOUR MATCH
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Cleansing Oil If...
You prefer a light and fluid texture.
You want a quick pump-and-go cleanser.
You mostly wear sunscreen or lighter makeup.
Choose Cleansing Balm If...
You prefer a soft and cushiony texture.
You want a more controlled application.
You dislike runny oil cleansers or jar packaging.
OUR CLEANSING OIL PICK
B:LAB Squalane Reset Pore Deep Cleansing Oil
Lightweight cleansing for everyday sunscreen and makeup
This lightweight cleansing oil spreads easily across dry skin to help dissolve sunscreen, makeup, excess sebum and daily buildup.
Add a little water and the oil emulsifies into a milky texture, allowing it to rinse away without an overly heavy finish.
Best suited to: Daily sunscreen wearers, lighter makeup users and anyone who prefers a quick, fluid cleansing routine.
OUR CLEANSING BALM PICK
B:LAB Cica Soft Meltaway Cleansing Balm
A soft balm texture in convenient tube packaging
This soft cleansing balm is dispensed directly from the tube and spreads smoothly across dry skin.
Its glossy balm texture helps dissolve makeup, sunscreen and daily impurities. When water is added, it emulsifies for a comfortable rinse.
Best suited to: Makeup and sunscreen wearers, anyone who prefers controlled application and those who enjoy a smooth balm texture without using a jar or spatula.
THREE SIMPLE STEPS
How to Double Cleanse
01
Massage
Apply cleansing oil or balm to dry skin and massage using gentle circular motions.
02
Emulsify
Add a little lukewarm water and continue massaging until the texture becomes milky.
03
Cleanse
Rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle water-based facial cleanser.
GOOD TO KNOW
Do You Need to Double Cleanse Every Night?
Not necessarily. Double cleansing is most useful in the evening when you have worn makeup, water-resistant sunscreen or several layers of skincare.
On lighter days, one thorough cleanse with a gentle facial cleanser may be enough. Your skin should feel fresh and comfortable after cleansing, not tight or stripped.
COMPLETE THE ROUTINE
B:LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser
A gentle second step for your evening cleanse
Follow your cleansing oil or balm with this low-pH facial cleanser to help wash away remaining residue, sweat and water-based buildup.
Massage a small amount onto damp skin, rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat the skin dry.
YOUR EVENING ROUTINE, SIMPLIFIED
There Is No Single Better Cleanser
The best choice is the one that removes your sunscreen and makeup effectively, rinses comfortably and fits naturally into your routine.
SHOP KOREAN CLEANSERSAustralia-wide delivery and Melbourne CBD pickup available.
