Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm Vitamin C
Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm Vitamin C
Product Description
Product overview
A brightening 3-in-1 cleansing balm infused with stabilized Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) that melts away longwear makeup, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen residue while leaving skin hydrated for up to 24 hours with no greasy finish. Also doubles as a hydrating face mask.
3-in-1 Formula
Works as a makeup remover, daily cleanser, and hydrating face mask in a single product for a simplified skincare routine.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3-in-1 Formula
Works as a makeup remover, daily cleanser, and hydrating face mask in a single product for a simplified skincare routine.
Vitamin C Brightening
Contains stabilized Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) to help skin look brighter instantly and over time with consistent use.
24-Hour Hydration
Enriched with Shea Butter and Jojoba Seed Oil to deliver lasting moisture without leaving a heavy or greasy film on skin.
Longwear Makeup Removal
Effectively dissolves waterproof mascara, longwear foundation, and stubborn sunscreen residue from face, eyes, and lips.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Ascorbyl Palmitate is considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 20, and PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate which are known triggers for fungal acne.
Dermatologist tested and labeled non-comedogenic. As a wash-off product, risk of pore clogging is minimal when fully rinsed.
Safe for use around the eye area. Removes waterproof eye makeup gently. Avoid getting product directly in eyes.
Formulated without fragrance, sulfates, and silicones. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Used here as a wax thickener (not as microbeads). Helps give the balm its solid texture and raises the melting point of the formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEthylhexyl Palmitate BaseWell-Established
A lightweight ester that serves as the primary cleansing agent and emollient in this balm. It dissolves makeup and oil-based impurities on contact while leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.
- Function: Emollient, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent that replaces heavier mineral oils
- Texture: Provides the smooth, silky glide as you massage the balm into skin
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) ~5-10%Proven
A rich plant butter renowned for its moisturizing and soothing properties. Packed with fatty acids and antioxidants to nourish skin while cleansing.
- Benefit: Contains vitamins A, E, and F for deep hydration and skin barrier support
- Comedogenic rating: 0-2, generally safe for most skin types
Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis) ~1-3%Proven
A liquid wax ester (technically not an oil) that closely mimics human sebum. Provides excellent moisture without feeling greasy and helps balance the skin.
- Unique: Most similar to natural human sebum of any plant-derived ingredient
- Absorption: Absorbs through pores and hair follicles, diffusing into the skin's outer layers
- Comedogenic rating: 0-2, non-comedogenic for most people
Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C) <1%Promising
A stabilized, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C that provides antioxidant protection. Used here at a low concentration as a brightening and protective agent.
- Form: Fat-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid, more stable in oil-based formulas
- Antioxidant: Helps protect skin from free radical damage during cleansing
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A powerful fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage and supports the skin's natural lipid barrier.
- Synergy: Works alongside Vitamin C to boost antioxidant protection
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the integrity of the skin's natural lipid layer
17 ingredients
Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polyethylene, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter / Shea Butter, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil / Jojoba Seed Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 20, Octyldodecanol, CI 19140 / Yellow 5 Lake, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Aqua / Water / Eau, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step of a double-cleanse routine (PM) or as your sole cleanser (AM). For best results, follow with a water-based cleanser like Garnier Micellar Water in the evening.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop & Apply to Dry Skin
With clean, dry fingers, scoop a generous amount of balm and apply directly to dry face. Do not wet skin first.
Massage in Circular Motions
Gently massage the balm across your face, eyes, and lips using circular motions for 30-60 seconds to dissolve makeup and impurities.
Emulsify with Water
Add a splash of warm water to your face and continue massaging. The balm will transform into a milky lather.
Rinse Clean
Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow with a water-based cleanser for a complete double cleanse if desired.
Mask Mode (Optional)
Apply a thick layer to clean skin, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Use 2-3 times per week for an extra hydration boost.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear longwear or waterproof makeup daily
- You want a gentle, fragrance-free makeup remover
- You prefer an affordable drugstore cleansing balm
- You need a pregnancy-safe makeup remover
- You want a multi-use product (cleanser + mask)
- You have sensitive skin and need ophthalmologist-tested products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — contains multiple triggers
- You want high-potency Vitamin C benefits (this is a rinse-off product)
- You prefer oil-free or water-based cleansers
- You dislike solid balm textures that require emulsifying
- You need a formula free of PEG compounds
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDissolves excess sebum and makeup effectively. Rinses clean without residue when properly emulsified. Follow with a gel cleanser.
Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil deliver nourishing moisture. Cleanses without stripping or causing tightness. Ideal as an AM cleanser too.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. Removes makeup from all areas without over-drying cheeks or leaving shine on T-zone.
Fragrance-free and dermatologist tested. Some users with very reactive skin have reported irritation — always patch test first.
Non-comedogenic per brand testing, but not fungal acne safe. Rinse thoroughly and double cleanse to minimize any risk of breakouts.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSComplete Makeup Removal
All types of longwear makeup, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen residue are dissolved and rinsed away in one step. Skin feels clean and soft.
95% noticed instant cleansingImproved Hydration & Softness
Skin feels consistently more hydrated thanks to Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil. Less tightness after cleansing compared to foaming cleansers.
80% noticed softer skinBrighter, More Even Complexion
With daily use, the Vitamin C and antioxidants contribute to a more radiant and even-toned appearance. Best results when paired with a Vitamin C serum.
65% noticed brighter skinOverall Skin Improvement
Consistent double-cleansing routine leads to fewer clogged pores, reduced dullness, and healthier-looking skin texture overall.
70% noticed clearer skinRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Melts away even the most stubborn waterproof makeup effortlessly
- Affordable price point for a cleansing balm ($14.99 for 4.2 oz)
- Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and silicone-free formula
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, never tight or stripped
- Versatile 3-in-1 use as cleanser, remover, and hydrating mask
- Cruelty-free and vegan (Leaping Bunny certified)
- Rinses clean without oily residue when properly emulsified
Criticized
- Vitamin C form (Ascorbyl Palmitate) is the least effective derivative
- Not fungal acne safe — contains multiple malassezia triggers
- Can cause stinging if it gets into eyes despite being eye-area safe
- Yellow colorant (Yellow 5 Lake) is unnecessary and may irritate some
- Contains Polyethylene which some consumers prefer to avoid
- Brightening effect is modest since product is rinsed off
- A few reports of redness and irritation on very sensitive skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar balm-to-oil texture with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides instead of Vitamin C. Slightly smaller (2 oz) but cheaper. Contains Squalane for extra moisture. Also fragrance-free.
Ceramide-enriched formula focused on barrier repair. Much smaller tub at 1.3 oz but concentrated. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic. Lacks any Vitamin C or brightening agents. Better for barrier-damaged skin.
Korean cleansing balm with a more natural, plant-based formula featuring Shea Butter and herbal extracts. Slightly pricier at 3.38 oz but a cult favorite. Has a subtle citrus scent (not fragrance-free).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Farmacy Green Clean Meltaway
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent the balm from drying out.
Plastic jar with screw-top lid (4.2 oz / 119g)
Yes — solid balm format won't spill. Over 3.4 oz liquid limit but solid balms are typically TSA-compliant for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleansing balm is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The Vitamin C form used (Ascorbyl Palmitate) is a gentle, oil-soluble derivative considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several known malassezia triggers including Ethylhexyl Palmitate (fatty acid ester), Polysorbate 20, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, and Octyldodecanol. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like the Malezia Cleansing Balm or simple micellar waters that are FA-safe.
Yes, since this is a rinse-off product, it is safe to use alongside all active ingredients including retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. The balm is washed away completely, so there is no concern about ingredient interactions. Simply cleanse first, then apply your active treatments to clean skin.
This cleansing balm is formulated for all skin types and works particularly well for dry, combination, and normal skin. Its Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil content makes it especially nourishing for dry skin. Oily skin types can also benefit but should follow with a gel or foam cleanser. Those with fungal acne should avoid this product due to trigger ingredients.
You will see immediate results in terms of makeup removal and skin softness from the very first use. The hydration benefits become noticeable within 1-2 weeks of daily use. For subtle brightening effects from the Vitamin C, expect 3-4 weeks of consistent use. For best brightening results, pair with a dedicated leave-on Vitamin C serum.
This cleansing balm goes first in your skincare routine as Step 1. In the evening, use it to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow with a water-based cleanser (double cleanse). In the morning, you can use it as your sole cleanser. After cleansing, continue with toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This product is labeled non-comedogenic and has been dermatologist tested. With a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5, it has a very low chance of clogging pores, especially since it is a rinse-off product. However, always ensure you rinse thoroughly and consider double cleansing if you have acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 4.2 oz jar typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use or 4-6 months with once-daily (evening only) use. Store with the lid tightly closed in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Always use clean, dry fingers to scoop product to prevent contamination.
Verdict: The Garnier Erase It All Makeup Cleansing Balm with Vitamin C is an excellent budget-friendly option for removing stubborn makeup. At $14.99 for 4.2 oz, it offers outstanding value compared to premium competitors like Clinique ($36) and Farmacy ($36). The fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula is gentle enough for sensitive and pregnancy-safe use. However, the Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) is a weaker derivative with limited brightening power in a wash-off format, and the product is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. If your primary goal is effective, affordable makeup removal with a touch of hydration — this balm delivers. For serious Vitamin C benefits, supplement with a dedicated leave-on serum.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyethylene
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Abrasive, Bulking Agent, Adhesive
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|