Makeup Remover Melting Balm
Makeup Remover Melting Balm
Product Description
Product overview
A silky balm-to-oil makeup remover enriched with Vitamin E that effortlessly melts away even the most stubborn eye, face, and lip makeup while leaving skin feeling nourished, smooth, and conditioned. From a dermatologist-recommended brand, this travel-friendly formula transforms on contact for a gentle yet thorough cleanse.
Balm-to-Oil Technology
Starts as a silky solid balm that transforms into a luxurious oil on contact with skin, dissolving even waterproof and long-wear makeup effortlessly.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBalm-to-Oil Technology
Starts as a silky solid balm that transforms into a luxurious oil on contact with skin, dissolving even waterproof and long-wear makeup effortlessly.
Nourishing Plant Oils
Enriched with Camellia, Soybean, Rice Bran, and Coconut Oils that condition and soften skin while cleansing, so skin never feels stripped or dry.
Vitamin E Protection
Contains Tocopherol (Vitamin E) as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental stressors while you cleanse.
Travel-Friendly Design
Compact, solid balm format means no spills or leaks. Fits easily in a purse or makeup bag for on-the-go makeup removal anywhere.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains multiple fungal acne triggers including Isopropyl Palmitate, Coconut Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, and Heptyl Undecylenate. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Contains Coconut Oil (rated 4/5) and Isopropyl Palmitate (rated 4/5). As a wash-off product the risk is reduced, but those with highly acne-prone skin should patch test first.
From a dermatologist-recommended brand. Free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, dyes, and sulfates. Gentle enough for the sensitive eye area.
Reviewed as 91% top-allergen-free. Free from common irritants including preservatives, lanolin, nickel, and gluten.
Best used as a first-step cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to ensure all residue is removed. This is especially recommended for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSIsopropyl Palmitate #1 IngredientEmollient Base
The primary ingredient in the formula, Isopropyl Palmitate is an ester of isopropyl alcohol and palmitic acid that acts as the main emollient and solvent. It creates the silky texture of the balm and helps dissolve makeup on contact.
- Function: Emollient, texture enhancer, and makeup-dissolving solvent
- Texture: Creates the smooth, spreadable balm consistency
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride #2 IngredientSkin Conditioning
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil that conditions and softens the skin while the balm dissolves makeup. Known for its excellent spreadability and non-greasy feel.
- Source: Derived from coconut and glycerin
- Benefits: Moisturizing, skin-conditioning, and helps improve product spreadability
Camellia Oleifera Seed OilNourishing
A golden-yellow oil from the Camellia tree native to Asia. Rich in oleic acid (70-85%) and natural Vitamin E, it provides deep nourishment and antioxidant protection while cleansing.
- Fatty Acid Profile: 70-85% oleic acid with natural Vitamin E (0.15%) and squalene (2-3%)
- Benefits: Deep moisturizing, antioxidant protection, and skin softening
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran OilAntioxidant
Oil extracted from rice bran, rich in nourishing fatty acids and the potent antioxidant gamma-oryzanol. Helps condition skin while the balm works to remove makeup.
- Composition: Oleic acid (40%), linoleic acid (30%), Vitamin E, and gamma-oryzanol
- Benefits: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning, and moisture retention
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
The star active ingredient in this formula. A well-researched fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage, strengthens the skin lipid barrier, and soothes irritation.
- Evidence: Extensive research confirms antioxidant and skin-barrier-supporting properties
- Benefits: Protects natural skin lipids, soothes irritation, and promotes skin healing
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) OilConditioning
A saturated plant oil with a unique fatty acid profile dominated by Lauric Acid (~50%). Melts at around 25°C and provides heavy-duty moisturization, making it ideal for dry skin types.
- Research: Confirmed as effective as mineral oil in treating xerosis (very dry skin) in a double-blind study
- Hair Benefit: Can penetrate hair better than mineral oil and sunflower oil, preventing protein loss
16 ingredients
Isopropyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Paraffin, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Heptyl Undecylenate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Isododecane, Microcrystalline Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Tocopherol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your PM routine. Apply to dry skin before any water-based cleanser. Best results as part of a double-cleanse method. Can also be used solo for quick on-the-go makeup removal.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop a Small Amount
With dry hands, scoop a small amount of the solid balm from the jar. A little goes a long way. The balm will begin to soften immediately from body heat.
Apply to Dry Face
Gently massage the balm onto dry skin using circular motions. The solid balm will transform into a silky oil as you massage. Focus on areas with heavy makeup.
Melt Away Makeup
Continue massaging for 30-60 seconds. Watch as even waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and lip products dissolve and lift away from the skin.
Rinse or Wipe Off
Rinse with warm water or gently wipe away with a damp cloth. For best results, follow with a water-based cleanser as part of a double-cleanse routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear heavy, long-wear, or waterproof makeup daily
- You want a gentle makeup remover that doesn't strip or irritate skin
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare products
- You need a travel-friendly, spill-proof makeup remover
- You practice the double-cleanse method
- You have dry or normal skin that benefits from nourishing oils
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — multiple trigger ingredients
- You have very oily skin and prefer oil-free products
- You want a large, economical jar — this is a 2 oz travel size only
- You are severely acne-prone and react to comedogenic ingredients
- You want an all-in-one cleanser that doesn't require a second cleanse
- You are allergic to coconut or soybean derivatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe rich oil blend of Camellia, Coconut, Soybean, and Rice Bran oils deeply nourishes and conditions dry skin during makeup removal. Leaves skin soft and hydrated without stripping.
Ideal for normal skin. Removes all types of makeup effectively while maintaining skin's natural moisture balance. Non-greasy finish after rinsing.
Works well for combination skin when followed by a water-based cleanser. The double-cleanse method ensures oily zones are properly cleaned without over-drying dry areas.
Can leave a slightly greasy residue if not followed by a second cleanser. Best in cooler, drier weather. A foaming cleanser after is strongly recommended for oily skin.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula with Vitamin E is soothing. Gentle enough for the sensitive eye area. Patch test recommended as it contains coconut oil.
Contains Coconut Oil (4/5) and Isopropyl Palmitate (4/5) on the comedogenic scale. Being a wash-off product reduces risk, but always follow with a thorough second cleanse.
Results timeline
1-3 MONTHSImmediate Makeup Dissolution
Makeup, including waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation, visibly melts away upon massage. Skin feels soft and nourished after removal.
95% noticed clean removalSmoother, Softer Skin
Regular use as a first cleanse step leads to noticeably softer, more conditioned skin. Less irritation compared to wipes or harsh liquid removers.
80% noticed softer skinImproved Skin Texture
Consistent double-cleansing with this balm helps improve overall skin texture. Pores appear cleaner and skin looks more balanced from thorough daily makeup removal.
70% noticed improved textureHealthier Skin Barrier
Gentle, non-stripping formula helps maintain a healthier skin barrier over time compared to harsh makeup removers. Less redness and dryness around the eye area.
65% noticed less drynessRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effortlessly melts away even waterproof mascara and long-wear makeup
- Leaves skin feeling soft, nourished, and conditioned — never stripped
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for the sensitive eye area
- Comparable effectiveness to luxury balms like Elemis at a fraction of the price
- Travel-friendly solid format — no spills or leaks in your bag
- Simple, short ingredient list with only 16 ingredients
- Dermatologist-recommended and free from parabens, phthalates, and dyes
Criticized
- Small 2 oz container runs out quickly for daily use
- Can leave a greasy residue, especially on oily skin types
- Requires a second cleanser for a truly thorough cleanse
- Texture is quite stiff and firm — needs warming up in hands first
- Not fungal acne safe — multiple trigger ingredients
- Some users report it struggles with very stubborn waterproof mascara
- Not widely available in all drugstores — limited retail distribution
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar balm-to-oil concept with added hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides for extra skin benefits. Larger 2 oz size at a comparable price, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types.
A popular drugstore cleansing balm with a sherbet-like texture that emulsifies better than Neutrogena. Contains Vitamin C and E. Better at emulsifying with water for a cleaner rinse, but slightly more ingredients.
A classic cold cream approach in a modern balm format. More affordable and a larger size, but heavier texture. Less elegant formula without the nourishing plant oils, but effective at basic makeup removal.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Protect from excessive heat (above 40°C/104°F). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed after each use.
Compact screw-top jar with a solid balm inside. No spatula included — use clean, dry fingers to scoop product.
Yes — solid balm format means no spills or TSA liquid restrictions. Compact 2 oz jar fits easily in any purse or carry-on bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This product does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is based on emollients, waxes, and plant oils with Vitamin E, all of which are considered safe. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product contains several ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast, including Isopropyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coconut Oil, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Heptyl Undecylenate, and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate. If you have fungal acne or are prone to pityrosporum folliculitis, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like the Malezia Cleansing Balm.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser used as a first step in your routine, it does not interact with active ingredients applied afterward. Use the balm to remove makeup, follow with a water-based cleanser, and then apply your retinol, Vitamin C, AHA, or BHA treatments as usual. The balm itself contains no actives that would conflict with these treatments.
This balm is best suited for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. The rich blend of Camellia, Coconut, Soybean, and Rice Bran Oils provides nourishing hydration during cleansing. Oily and acne-prone skin types can still use it but should always follow with a thorough water-based cleanser to prevent residue buildup.
Makeup removal results are immediate — you will see makeup dissolve upon first use. Skin-conditioning benefits such as softer, smoother skin become noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use. Over 2-4 weeks, the gentle, non-stripping formula helps improve overall skin texture and comfort compared to harsh removers or wipes.
Use this as the very first step in your evening (PM) skincare routine. Apply to dry skin before any water contact to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities. Follow with a water-based cleanser (double-cleanse method), then continue with toner, serum, and moisturizer as usual. This product is designed for the first cleanse only.
The formula has a comedogenic rating of approximately 3/5 due to Coconut Oil (4/5) and Isopropyl Palmitate (4/5). However, since it is a wash-off product that is rinsed or wiped away, the effective comedogenic risk is lower than a leave-on product. Always follow with a second cleanser to remove any residual oils. If you are highly acne-prone, patch test first or consider a non-comedogenic alternative.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from excessive heat (above 40°C/104°F) and keep the lid tightly closed after each use. Always use clean, dry hands when scooping the product to avoid introducing bacteria or moisture into the jar.
Verdict: The Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm is an excellent affordable alternative to luxury cleansing balms like Clinique and Elemis. Its simple 16-ingredient formula with Vitamin E and four nourishing plant oils effectively melts away even stubborn makeup while leaving skin soft and conditioned. It is especially well-suited for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types who want a fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended first cleanse. However, it is not ideal for those with fungal acne or very oily skin, and the small 2 oz jar may not offer the best value for daily users. For the price point, it delivers impressive performance as a travel-friendly makeup remover that competes with products costing three times as much.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Paraffin
Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Heptyl Undecylenate
Emollient
|
|