Cleansing Balm
Cleansing Balm
Product Description
A revolutionary 6-ingredient cleansing balm specifically formulated for fungal acne (malassezia) and seborrheic dermatitis-prone skin. Features 1% salicylic acid and natural plant-derived saponins to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and decongest pores while remaining 100% biodegradable and microbiome-friendly.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Microbiome-Safe Formula
Specially formulated without C12-24 fatty acids that feed malassezia yeast, making it the only cleansing balm safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Complete Makeup Removal
Effortlessly dissolves waterproof makeup, heavy sunscreen, and sebum buildup while emulsifying cleanly with water.
Natural Saponins
Plant-derived surfactants from Soapwort and Quillaja extracts provide gentle, effective cleansing with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Pore Decongestion
1% Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates and unclogs pores during the cleansing process, helping refine skin texture over time.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 1% salicylic acid. While low-concentration topical BHA in wash-off products is generally considered safe, consult your healthcare provider. Avoid if using high-dose salicylic acid elsewhere.
100% fungal acne safe. MCT oil is meticulously sourced with no trace C12-24 fatty acids. The only cleansing balm of its kind for FA-prone skin.
Formulated specifically for SD-prone skin. Free from ingredients that trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis flares.
Minimal 6-ingredient formula with no fragrances, essential oils, or common irritants. Plant saponins provide gentle cleansing action.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π₯₯ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Base Proven
A purified MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil derived from coconut. Unlike regular coconut oil, this specifically excludes longer-chain fatty acids (C12-24) that feed malassezia yeast, making it uniquely suitable for fungal acne-prone skin.
- Source: Meticulously sourced with no trace C12-24 fatty acids
- Function: Dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and sebum effectively
- Benefit: Enhances microbial potency against malassezia
π§ Glycerin Humectant Proven
A natural humectant that attracts and locks in moisture. Creates a protective barrier that helps maintain skin hydration during cleansing, preventing the tight, stripped feeling common with other cleansers.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-pore-clogging
- Function: Maintains skin hydration during cleansing
- Benefit: Creates a less irritating cleansing experience
𧴠Salicylic Acid 1% Proven
A gold-standard BHA (beta hydroxy acid) for treating problem skin. Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that cause congestion and breakouts.
- Concentration: 1% - Gentle yet effective
- Function: Exfoliates skin surface and within pores
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritated skin
πΏ Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract Natural Surfactant Promising
Derived from the Soapbark tree, this natural extract contains saponins - plant-based surfactants that create gentle foaming and cleansing action without synthetic detergents.
- Source: Quillaja Saponaria (Soapbark Tree)
- Function: Natural surfactant for cleansing and emulsification
- Benefit: Allows the balm to rinse clean with water
π Saponaria Officinalis Leaf/Root Extract Natural Surfactant Promising
Soapwort extract with natural saponins for gentle cleansing. Beyond cleansing, this traditional botanical offers soothing and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin.
- Source: Soapwort plant (leaf and root)
- Function: Cleansing, foaming, and soothing
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties for reactive skin
6 ingredients
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Water, Salicylic Acid, Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf/Root Extract
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the first step in your PM routine to remove makeup and sunscreen. Can function as a stand-alone cleanser if needed, or follow with a water-based cleanser for double cleansing.
π How to Use
Apply to Dry Skin
Squeeze a generous amount onto dry fingertips. Apply to dry face - this is essential for effective makeup and sunscreen removal.
Massage Thoroughly
Massage in gentle circular motions for 60-90 seconds. Focus on areas with makeup, sunscreen buildup, or congested pores. Feel the balm dissolve impurities.
Emulsify with Water
Wet your hands and continue massaging. The balm will turn milky as it emulsifies, trapping dissolved makeup and impurities.
Rinse Clean
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. The natural saponins ensure complete removal without residue. Best removed in the shower for thorough rinsing.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You struggle with seborrheic dermatitis
- You want a cleansing balm that won't break you out
- You wear heavy sunscreen or waterproof makeup
- You prefer minimal, science-backed formulas
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You want to double cleanse without FA triggers
- You value sustainable, biodegradable products
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant and want to avoid all BHA products
- You prefer a heavily fragranced sensorial experience
- You want a thick, sherbet-like balm texture
- You need a budget option under $15
- You prefer jar packaging over tubes
- You have a salicylic acid sensitivity
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Salicylic acid helps control excess sebum while the lightweight formula rinses completely clean without adding oiliness.
Glycerin provides hydration during cleansing. Follow with a hydrating second cleanser and rich moisturizer for best results.
Perfectly balances cleansing oily T-zone while the gentle formula doesn't strip dry areas. Ideal for multi-zone concerns.
Fragrance-free, minimal ingredients, and anti-inflammatory plant saponins make this exceptionally gentle for reactive skin.
Zero comedogenic rating, fungal acne safe, and 1% salicylic acid actively helps clear and prevent breakouts. A holy grail for acne sufferers.
π Results Timeline
Clean, Non-Stripped Skin
Makeup and sunscreen completely dissolved. Skin feels clean but not tight or dry. Pores visibly decongested after massage.
95% noticedFewer Breakouts
Fungal acne bumps begin to clear. Seborrheic dermatitis flares reduce. Skin texture starts improving with regular use.
52% noticedClearer Complexion
Significant reduction in fungal acne and closed comedones. Smoother skin texture. Less congestion overall.
89% noticedLong-Term Skin Health
Maintained clear skin with consistent use. Balanced microbiome. Reduced sensitivity and reactivity over time.
93% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Only cleansing balm that is 100% fungal acne safe
- Effectively removes waterproof makeup and sunscreen
- Minimal 6-ingredient formula - no fillers
- 1% salicylic acid helps with pore congestion
- Rinses completely clean with water
- Perfect for seborrheic dermatitis-prone skin
- 100% biodegradable and eco-friendly
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Sustainable aluminum packaging
- Created by skincare expert with fungal acne experience
β Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Only available direct from Malezia website
- International shipping can be expensive
- Gel-balm texture differs from traditional thick balms
- Contains salicylic acid (not ideal for pregnancy)
- May require shower for thorough rinsing
- Limited size option (100ml only)
- Can sell out due to high demand
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Squalane-based balm cleanser with good emulsification. However, contains ingredients that may trigger fungal acne. NOT fungal acne safe. Good for non-FA-prone skin seeking affordable cleansing balm.
Fungal acne safe micellar water alternative. Different format (water vs balm) but safe for FA-prone skin. Doesn't provide the same oil-cleansing pore decongestion experience.
Same FA-safe MCT oil base but pure oil format - doesn't emulsify or rinse with water alone. Requires a separate cleanser to remove. Good DIY alternative when paired with Cromollient SCE.
Popular K-beauty cleansing balm with sherbet texture. Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate and other FA triggers. NOT safe for fungal acne. Only suitable for those without FA concerns.
π Comparison with Competitors
Malezia Cleansing Balm
$20.00The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
$16.00Banila Co Clean It Zero
$22.00CeraVe Hydrating Cleansing Balm
$16.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use within one year of first use for optimal efficacy.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Avoid freezing temperatures which may cause product separation.
Recyclable aluminum tube with screw cap. Infinitely recyclable and sustainable packaging choice.
Yes, 100ml is TSA-compliant for carry-on. Aluminum tube is durable and leak-resistant for travel.
β Frequently Asked Questions
This product contains 1% salicylic acid (BHA). While topical salicylic acid in low concentrations (under 2%) in wash-off products is generally considered safe during pregnancy by many dermatologists, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding all BHA products during pregnancy as a precaution. Salicylic acid is considered safe during breastfeeding as minimal amounts are absorbed topically and it does not transfer significantly to breast milk. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes! This is the only cleansing balm on the market that is 100% fungal acne safe. The MCT oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride) is meticulously sourced and contains no trace C12-24 fatty acids that feed malassezia yeast. All 6 ingredients have been carefully selected to be completely safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This product is recommended by Simple Skincare Science, the leading authority on fungal acne-safe products.
Yes, this cleansing balm is compatible with all other skincare actives. Since it's a wash-off product, the 1% salicylic acid rinses away and doesn't interact with leave-on treatments. You can safely use this before applying retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or other BHAs in your routine. However, if your skin is very sensitive or compromised, you may want to use a gentler cleanser when introducing potent actives.
This cleansing balm is excellent for all skin types, but particularly beneficial for: oily and acne-prone skin (thanks to salicylic acid), fungal acne-prone skin (the only FA-safe balm), seborrheic dermatitis-prone skin, sensitive skin (minimal fragrance-free formula), and combination skin. Dry skin types can use it but may want to follow with a hydrating second cleanser. It's especially valuable for anyone who has struggled to find a cleansing balm that doesn't break them out.
Results vary by concern: Immediate - thorough makeup and sunscreen removal, clean non-stripped skin. 1-2 weeks - fungal acne bumps start clearing, reduced SD flares. 4-6 weeks - significant improvement in skin texture, fewer breakouts, visibly clearer complexion. 3+ months - maintained clear skin, balanced microbiome, reduced overall sensitivity. According to Malezia's data, 52% of users see noticeable improvements within 2 weeks.
Use as the FIRST step in your PM skincare routine. Apply to dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. You can either use it as a stand-alone cleanser (it rinses clean with water) or follow with a water-based cleanser for double cleansing. It's best used at night when you need to remove the day's buildup. Not typically needed in AM routine unless you wore heavy products overnight.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. None of the 6 ingredients are pore-clogging. In fact, the 1% salicylic acid actively helps unclog pores during cleansing. The purified MCT oil base is specifically formulated without the longer-chain fatty acids found in regular coconut oil that can contribute to clogged pores. This is one of the safest cleansing balm options for acne-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Avoid freezing temperatures as this may cause product separation. The aluminum tube packaging helps protect the formula and extends shelf life. With regular daily use, the 100ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months depending on how much product you use per cleanse.
Verdict: The Malezia Cleansing Balm is a groundbreaking product that fills a crucial gap in the market - the only cleansing balm that is 100% fungal acne and seborrheic dermatitis safe. Its minimal 6-ingredient formula with 1% salicylic acid delivers effective cleansing and pore decongestion without any FA triggers. While the price point is higher than drugstore alternatives, for those with fungal acne or SD-prone skin, this is truly a holy grail product that eliminates the frustration of finding a cleansing balm that won't break you out. The thoughtful formulation, sustainable packaging, and science-backed approach make this an exceptional value for anyone seeking microbiome-friendly skincare. Highly recommended for fungal acne sufferers and anyone wanting the cleanest, most minimal cleansing balm available.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|