I’m thrilled to review the Paula’s Choice cleansing balm today because I’m a big fan of the double cleansing method. Double cleansing is a gentle way to remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin. The method starts with an oil based cleanser like this one to remove makeup and sunscreen then follows up with a second cleanser, a typical foaming water based cleanser. Let’s get into today’s review to see how the Paula’s Choice cleansing balm performs against makeup and sunscreen!

Consistency

The Paula’s Choice omega complex cleansing balm has a delightfully thick consistency. When I apply it to my dry skin, it feels extremely nourishing; I could almost leave it on my skin to slug if I didn’t know it was a cleanser. I like using about a teaspoon amount to double cleanse at night. It does take a few moments to see tough-to-remove makeup budge such as waterproof mascara and long wearing matte lipstick, but it gets the job done without leaving any film on the skin. 

Scent

The Paula’s Choice balm has no fragrance added making it a great cleansing balm option for those sensitive to fragrance. My other two favorite cleansing balms are the Banila Co. clean it zero and the Heimish all clean cleansing balm which both have fragrance added in them. I don’t mind fragranced skincare, but it’s always an unnecessary ingredient.

Highlighted Ingredients

Jojoba Oil- soothes and conditions skin with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids

Meadowfoam Seed Oil- prevents moisture loss with omega 9 fatty acids

Price

The Paula’s choice cleansing balm retails for $28 for 3.5 fl oz ($8 per ounce). When you break this cleansing balm down to price per ounce, it is quite a bit pricier than my go to Banila cleansing balm which is $3.60 per ounce. 

Packaging

One of my favorite things about this cleansing balm is the tube packaging. Most cleansing balms I’ve tried usually come in a tub as opposed to a tube like this one. The tube is so easy to travel with and I love how compact it is compared to a large jar. I didn’t have any issues with this tube while flying to San Diego recently. I will probably get this cleansing balm again next time I travel for a longer period of time to save space in my bag. 

Results

Overall, I really enjoyed the Paula’s Choice cleansing balm, but it does not dethrone my favorite cleansing balm of all time, the Banila Co. clean it zero. The Banila cleansing balm is cheaper and more effective against waterproof makeup, however, the Paula’s Choice balm is a great fragrance free option and it worked well for travel. 

Have you ever tried any products from Paula’s Choice? This was my first time trying the brand. I’d definitely like to try more from them in the future.