British Reporter — When it comes to skincare, there are certain steps that you might choose to do without. Cleansing, on the other hand, is non-negotiable. With a whole range of products that serve different purposes, there’s only one that is a do-it-all, and that is cleansing balms. Cleansing balms melt the entire day, leaving skin soft, hydrated and never greasy. When it becomes part of your routine, the rest falls into play, and products are finally able to work like they’re supposed to.
According to ELEMIS, many women grew up watching the women in their life apply cold cream nightly. But until recently, cold cream seemed to be a product of the past rather than a classic skincare staple. Its modern resurgence, however, has left many of us wondering, what is cold cream used for and does it actually work? It turns out our matriarchs may have been onto something after all!
We will help you understand the benefits of both of those skincare staples, and you will finally be able to decide your favourite between cold cream vs cleansing balm.
Is cold cream the same as a cleansing balm?What is a cleansing balm?
You got to love a multi-tasking beauty product, and a cleansing balm is no exception. They deliver the ultimate cleansing experience with their unique, 3-in-1 formula that seems to do it all. When activated by water, the oil-infused facial cleanser nourishes as a cleansing balm, easily removes makeup and impurities as a luxurious oil and hydrates as a creamy milk, without stripping skin of essential moisture. Skin-softening, anti-ageing and can fully melt away the day without over-drying, the wonders of a cleansing balm are endless.
What is a cold cream?
Loved for decades, nowadays cold creams are typically moisturising face creams with an ultra-rich formula that soothes and hydrates skin. When used as an overnight treatment, they are a saviour to repair irritated skin and restore winter’s super-dry skin. Because of their higher oil levels, cold creams have also been used for decades to remove makeup, just massage it on and wipe it off with a tissue. That being said, they’re best suited for more mature skin, as they aren’t ideal for oily skin that’s naturally prone to breakouts.
Is cold cream the same as a cleansing balm?
While they might look similar with its whipped oil-in-water texture, they do in fact differ in their efficiency. While cold creams are an intensive moisturising treatment, they don’t have any surfactants that help remove oily substances after washing. In theory, while they help wipe off makeup, they’ll also leave behind a residue, trapping bacteria and grime underneath. The beauty of the cleansing balm is, after just one cleansing, skin is left squeaky clean with just the right amount of bounce and hydration, and of course, never greasy.
Pros and cons of cleansing balms
PRO #1 -Truly a deep cleansing and purifying product, no residue, or trace of make-up, pollution or impurity remains after one usage.
CON #1 – It is recommended to gently wipe away with a warm damp cotton, which might not be readily available if you’re on the go.
PRO #2 – Suitable for all skin-types and ages, from combination to dry skin and everything in between
CON #2 – With antioxidant-rich Elderberry and Starflower oil, balm may melt when warm but resets perfectly when cooled.
PRO #3 – Cleansing balms are easy to travel with as they are solid and less likely to get confiscated in the airport (or leak in your bag) than a tube of gel cleanser.
Pros and cons of cold creams
PRO #1 – Calms and relieves red, irritated and dehydrated skin in an instant, due to its cold to the touch application.
CON #1 – If using as a cleanser, cold creams require a second cleansing routine to remove residue left from long-wear makeup, and SPF.
PRO #2 – Can be used as an all around dry-skin reliever, including legs, arms, and hands- even lips.
CON #2 – Due to their high concentration of mineral oils and waxes, oily, acne-prone skin would be better off without it.
Are cleansing balms better than cold creams?
Cleansing balms are in fact superior to cold creams as they’re the ultimate first step in cleansing, a crucial aspect in maintaining healthy, balanced skin. Not only is it the best way to completely remove makeup, it also won’t compromise its moisture barrier, cause any irritation or disrupt its pH, like some cold creams can.
Should I choose a cold cream or cleansing balm for my skin?
As important as it is to choose the right products for your skin type, how you would fit into your routine. After a long day, the transformative cleansing balm is a one-step solution to clear, clean skin and since it won’t leave skin greasy, a second product is optional. Additional benefits of an aromatic experience with several scents to choose from make it something that might benefit everyone, no matter their skin needs.
Experience unique cleansing ritual for thatclean, nourished feeling with a boost of hydration and skin-loving ingredients with our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm collection:
Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
The Iconic Original
This award-winning essential is infused with a unique blend of 9 essential oils including Lavender, Chamomile and Eucalyptus and smells like aromatherapy in a jar.
Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm
The Rose-Infused Icon
Formulated with delicate English Rose Oleo Extract, this floral favourite leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and oh-so-soothed.
Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm
The Fragrance-Free Cleansing Balm
Fragrance-free version of our bestselling cleansing balm that melts away makeup and impurities for a glowing complexion.
