Aisling McDermott On Beauty: Six great balm-to-oil cleansers

I wrote recently about Emma Hardie’s Amazing Face Cleansing Balm and the wonders it worked on my mother’s skin. Ever since, I’ve been asked to recommend more cleansers that “start off solid and then turn to oil”.

[ CULTBEAUTY.CO.UK) ]

Black is the new clean. If you fancy slathering yourself in mineral-rich cleanser from Hungary, this deceptively oily mixture will cleanse, draw out impurities and leave your skin clean but still soft. All skin types will benefit, but it is particularly good for oily, acne-prone and congested skin.

BODY SHOP NUTRIGANICS SOFTENING CLEANSING GEL OIL (€15.50)

A lot of people prefer their products in a tube because they are concerned about germs getting in to tubs or jars of cleansers and moisturisers. This gel transforms to oil when water is applied and will gently and effectively remove all your make-up.

COCONUT OIL (€3-€4)

Coconut oil could have been the blueprint for every balm-to-oil cleanser in the world. It is solid in the tub, melts to oil when warmed in the hands and can be easily massaged in to remove make-up, leaving skin feeling incredibly soft. The only problem is that it does not emulsify and dissolve away like commercial cleansers, which means that you will end up with clogged pores. Following up with a gentle liquid exfoliator will take care of that problem (try Clarins).

OSKIA RENAISSANCE CLEANSING GEL (€39)

Dispense a small amount of this pink gel from the pump and apply to dry skin to massage off make-up and the grime of the day. With antioxidants, omega fatty acids and pumpkin seeds in the mix, it exfoliates and reduces irritation. This trusted cleanser of skincare addicts is suitable for every skin type.

CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF CLEANSING BALM (€29)

This is one of the original and best balm-to-oil cleansers, and has reached cult status. It is quite solid in the tub, so you just need to scoop a little bit out and rub it gently into your face. It emulsifies to a milky oil texture and takes everything off.

YVES SAINT LAURENT TEMPS MAJEUR CLEANSING BALM (€72)

We are into luxe skincare territory here. This gel-to-oil cleanser ticks every box for make-up removal and skin-softening. It is an ultra-luxurious and moisturising cleanser that nourishes and pampers.

• Twitter @aismcdermott
• amcdermott@irishtimes.com