True or False: Cleansing Balms Are One of the Best Things You Can Use for Acne

The word noncomedogenic is key here. This means that the product is formulated without pore-clogging ingredients that tend to trap dirt and sebum. A few highly comedogenic ingredients that Shirazi recommends avoiding are coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, and algae extract. “Lanolin is a waxy, oily substance that helps retain moisture but can worsen acne and clog pores,” she says. “Look for cleansing balms with almond, argan, grape seed, and castor oil [instead]. You’ll also want to avoid ones with alcohol and salt, which can dry and irritate the skin.”

To sum up, cleansing balms are a great alternative to makeup wipes and provide extra hydration for the skin, as long as you choose the right one for you. Those with acne-prone skin and ingredient sensitivities will want to read the label carefully before selecting one to add to their routine. To give you a head start on your search, I’ve rounded up the best cleansing balms for acne-prone skin below.