Cleansing Oils and Balms: A Gentler Way to Take the Day Off
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That squeaky, tight feeling after cleansing is often mistaken for clean. It is usually a sign the cleanser has stripped more than it needed to. Here is the gentler way.
What the research shows
A 2026 review of cleansing technology explains that surfactants, the ingredients that let a cleanser lift away oil and makeup, work by emulsifying oils and lowering surface tension, but they can also disrupt the skin's own lipids, which may lead to barrier damage and sensitivity. Newer formulations aim to combine cleansing with better tolerability and barrier support (Draelos et al., 2026, PMID 42081636).
Where oils and balms fit
Oil and balm cleansers melt away sunscreen, makeup and the day's grime without the harsh surfactant load of a foaming wash. They suit dry, mature and sensitive skin especially well, and they make a comfortable first step in a double cleanse.
- Massage a balm or oil onto dry skin, then add a little water so it turns milky and rinses clean.
- For a double cleanse, follow with a gentle water-based cleanser to finish.
- If your skin ever feels tight and tingly after washing, that is your cue to move to something milder.
At Verdo we stock the Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil, the Medik8 Gentle Cleanse, and the Pure Fiji Coconut Cleansing Balm.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.
