Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
Product Description
A solid cleansing balm that melts into a luxurious oil, then transforms into a nourishing milky texture that rinses off clean. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides (Matrixyl 3000) to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while leaving skin silky smooth and plumped with hydration.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Triple-Texture Transformation
Solid balm melts into a silky oil on contact, then emulsifies into a milky cleanser when water is added, rinsing perfectly clean with no residue.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Infused with hyaluronic acid and three ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) to hydrate and protect the skin barrier even during the cleansing step.
Matrixyl 3000 Peptides
Contains Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 to support collagen production and reduce signs of inflammation for a refreshed complexion.
Nourishing Plant Oils
Sunflower seed oil rich in linoleic acid helps strengthen the skin barrier and provides antioxidant protection without clogging pores.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains several potential triggers: Polysorbate 20, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), and fatty acids from sunflower seed oil.
Despite being an oil-based balm, it emulsifies and rinses clean. Sunflower seed oil has a comedogenic rating of 0. The rinse-off nature minimizes pore-clogging risk.
Includes Parfum, Geraniol, and Linalool, which are individual fragrance allergens. Those with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should patch test first.
100% vegan formula. Double-certified cruelty-free by both Leaping Bunny and PETA. Manufactured in Fair Trade Certified facilities.
As a rinse-off first cleanser, it can be used alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs in the same routine without interaction concerns.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
A low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin than regular HA. Attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Mechanism: Binds up to 1000x its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin's surface layers
- Benefit: Hydrolyzed form has smaller molecules for better absorption compared to standard hyaluronic acid
π‘οΈ Ceramide Complex (NP, AP, EOP) Proven
A trio of ceramides that mimic the skin's natural lipid barrier. Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier, making them essential for moisture retention and protection.
- Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3): Helps restore the skin barrier and improve moisture retention in compromised skin
- Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6 II): Supports natural exfoliation and barrier repair
- Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1): Strengthens the outermost skin barrier layer
𧬠Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Tetrapeptide-7) Promising
The world's most sold peptide complex, combining two signal peptides that work synergistically. Tripeptide-1 stimulates collagen synthesis while Tetrapeptide-7 reduces inflammation by inhibiting IL-6 production.
- Research: In-vitro studies show Matrixyl 3000 can support collagen production and reduce signs of aging
- Note: Concentrations in this cleansing balm are likely below therapeutic levels (typically <0.01%), and the product is rinsed off
π» Sunflower Seed Oil Proven
Rich in linoleic acid (50-74%) and oleic acid (14-35%), sunflower oil is a well-studied emollient with a comedogenic index of 0. It strengthens the skin barrier and provides antioxidant vitamin E.
- Research: A single application has been shown to speed skin barrier recovery within one hour with effects lasting up to five hours
- Benefit: High linoleic acid content is beneficial even for acne-prone skin types
π¬ Phytosphingosine Proven
A lipid naturally present in the skin that serves as a precursor to ceramides. Has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritated skin while supporting barrier function.
- Function: Supports ceramide production in the skin and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects
- Synergy: Works alongside the ceramide complex and cholesterol for comprehensive barrier support
29 ingredients
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Polydecene, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Polyethylene, PEG-10 Isostearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosphingosine, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Water (Aqua), Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Geraniol, Linalool, Fragrance (Parfum)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the first step in your PM double-cleanse routine. Follow with a water-based cleanser like the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser for a thorough yet gentle cleanse.
π How to Use
Scoop & Apply to Dry Skin
Using the included spatula, scoop out a dime-sized amount of balm and apply it to dry skin. Do not wet your face first β the balm needs to dissolve makeup and oils directly.
Massage for 30β60 Seconds
Gently massage the balm across your entire face using circular motions. You will feel it melt from a solid into a silky oil as it breaks down makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Keep eyes closed when massaging around the eye area.
Emulsify with Water
Moisten your fingertips with a little water and continue massaging. The oil will turn into a milky white texture β this means it is emulsifying and can now be rinsed away cleanly.
Rinse or Wipe Off
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or gently remove with a warm, damp cleansing cloth. Follow with your favorite water-based cleanser for a complete double cleanse.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You wear makeup daily (including waterproof formulas) and need thorough yet gentle removal
- You practice double cleansing and want an affordable first-step cleanser
- Your skin feels dry or tight after using traditional makeup removers or wipes
- You want barrier-supporting ingredients (ceramides, HA) in your cleanser
- You are on a budget but want performance comparable to prestige cleansing balms
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe makeup remover
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) β contains multiple FA triggers
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance β contains Parfum, Geraniol, and Linalool
- You want a completely fragrance-free cleansing balm (try CeraVe or Clinique instead)
- You prefer a minimal ingredient list with fewer than 10 ingredients
- You need a standalone cleanser without double cleansing β this works best as step 1
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Emulsifies well and rinses clean without leaving an oily residue. Oil dissolves oil principle works great for oily skin. Follow with a gel cleanser.
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid help maintain moisture during cleansing. Leaves skin soft and hydrated rather than tight or stripped.
Balances well across both oily and dry zones. Dissolves excess oil in the T-zone while nourishing drier cheeks. Ideal for this skin type.
Ceramides and phytosphingosine are excellent for sensitive skin, but the added fragrance (Parfum, Geraniol, Linalool) may irritate reactive skin. Patch test recommended.
Low comedogenic rating and rinses clean. Great for dissolving pore-clogging sunscreen and makeup. Not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Makeup Removal
Visibly dissolves all makeup including waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and sunscreen within 30β60 seconds of massaging. Skin feels soft and clean after rinsing.
95% noticed immediatelyImproved Skin Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and more supple as the double-cleansing routine removes buildup more effectively than wipes or micellar water alone.
80% noticedEnhanced Hydration & Glow
Consistent use with ceramides and hyaluronic acid helps maintain skin barrier integrity. Users report fewer dry patches, less tightness after cleansing, and a healthier-looking glow.
70% noticedClearer, Balanced Complexion
Regular double cleansing helps reduce blackheads and congestion from trapped sunscreen and makeup. Skin looks cleaner and more balanced overall.
65% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptional value β performs comparably to $30β40 prestige cleansing balms at a fraction of the price
- Melts waterproof mascara and stubborn makeup effortlessly
- Rinses completely clean with no greasy residue left behind
- Skin feels soft, hydrated, and plump after use β not tight or stripped
- Includes skincare-grade ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade Certified
- Comes with a hygienic spatula for scooping
- A little goes a long way β dime-sized amount is sufficient
β Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum, Geraniol, Linalool) which may irritate sensitive skin or eyes
- Small 2 oz jar can run out fast for daily users (jumbo 3.5 oz available for $20)
- Not fungal acne safe due to esters, polysorbates, and fatty acids
- Peptide benefits are minimal in a rinse-off formula
- Some users report slight eye blurriness if not rinsed thoroughly
- Texture is slightly firmer than some luxury balms β requires more warming between hands
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar balm-to-oil texture at an even lower price point with a larger 3.38 oz size. Lacks ceramides and peptides but effectively removes makeup. Fragrance-free option available.
Oat-based formula with colloidal oatmeal for soothing sensitive skin. Similar cleansing balm format but focuses more on calming inflammation than hydration. Slightly smaller size.
Minimalist formula with fewer ingredients. Effective at dissolving makeup and sunscreen. Lacks the ceramide and peptide complex but also lacks fragrance β better for sensitive skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm
$12.00Clinique Take The Day Off Balm
$36.00Banila Co Clean It Zero Original
$19.00CeraVe Cleansing Balm
$16.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid tightly closed. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms as moisture can affect the balm consistency.
Screw-top jar with included hygienic spatula. Available in 2 oz standard and 3.5 oz jumbo sizes.
Yes β solid balm format is TSA-friendly and leak-proof, no liquid restrictions apply. The 2 oz jar is compact enough for carry-on luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This cleansing balm contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula primarily consists of gentle emollients, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides β none of which are flagged as pregnancy concerns.
No. This product contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne, including: Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), Polysorbate 20, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, and fatty acids from sunflower seed oil. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider a fungal-acne-safe cleansing balm like the Malezia Cleansing Balm instead.
Yes. As a rinse-off first cleanser, this product is fully compatible with all active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). It is rinsed off completely before you apply any treatment products, so there is no risk of interaction. In fact, thorough double cleansing helps your actives penetrate more effectively.
This cleansing balm is formulated for all skin types. It is especially excellent for dry and combination skin thanks to the ceramide complex and hyaluronic acid. Oily skin types will appreciate how cleanly it rinses. The only caveat is for very sensitive skin β the added fragrance (Parfum, Geraniol, Linalool) may cause irritation, so patch testing is recommended.
Makeup removal results are immediate from the very first use. Within the first week, you should notice softer, smoother skin texture. After 2β4 weeks of consistent double cleansing, users typically report improved hydration, fewer dry patches, and a healthier glow. Reduced congestion and fewer blackheads may be noticed after 1β3 months of regular use.
This cleansing balm is used as the very first step in your PM skincare routine, applied to dry skin before any other product. It is your "first cleanse" in a double-cleansing method. After rinsing it off, follow with a water-based cleanser (second cleanse), then proceed with toner, serum, moisturizer, and eye cream. It is primarily an evening product for removing the day's makeup and sunscreen.
This cleansing balm has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Although it contains oils and emollients, it is designed to emulsify with water and rinse completely clean, leaving no pore-clogging residue behind. Sunflower seed oil, a key ingredient, has a comedogenic index of 0. Many users with acne-prone skin report no breakouts from this product. However, it is not suitable for fungal acne.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Since you only need a dime-sized amount per use, the 2 oz jar typically lasts 2β3 months with daily use, and some users report getting up to 6 months out of a jar. The jumbo 3.5 oz size lasts proportionally longer. Always use the included spatula to maintain hygiene and avoid introducing bacteria into the jar.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm delivers outstanding performance at a drugstore price point, rivaling cleansing balms that cost 3β4x more. The triple-texture transformation melts away even stubborn waterproof makeup with ease, while ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides provide skincare benefits beyond basic cleansing. The main drawbacks are the added fragrance (a dealbreaker for fragrance-sensitive users) and the small 2 oz standard size. It is also not suitable for those with fungal acne. Overall, this is one of the best value cleansing balms on the market and an excellent entry point for anyone new to double cleansing.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyethylene
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Abrasive, Bulking Agent, Adhesive
|
|

