With fall in full swing and temperatures dropping, your skin’s condition is changing too. Colder air and lower humidity can leave your skin feeling drier and more sensitive, meaning your skincare routine needs some extra TLC. One of the first steps in that routine is your cleanser – and in fall, choosing the right cleanser is essential to keeping your skin in balance. Oil and balm cleansers are perfect for this season, and in this blog, I’ll explain why they’re ideal for fall and how to best use them.
Why Your Skin Needs a Gentler Cleanse in Fall
During the fall, your skin often becomes more vulnerable due to the harsh winds and drier air. Your skin loses moisture more quickly, and the protective lipid layer that helps keep your skin hydrated is compromised. This means that harsh, foaming cleansers – which often contain surfactants – can dry out your skin and strip away the natural oils that your skin needs to stay hydrated.
An overly aggressive cleanser can lead to dry, tight skin, flaking and even irritation. This is why gentle cleansers, such as oil and balm cleansers, are the perfect choice in the fall.
How do oil and balm cleansers work?
Unlike foaming or gel-based cleansers, oil and balm cleansers work by gently cleansing the skin without stripping away its natural oils. These products contain cleansing oils and emollients that effectively dissolve dirt, excess oil, and even makeup. This happens without drying or irritating the skin, leaving it soft and nourished.
What makes oil and balm cleansers so special?
Oil attracts oil:
One of the basic principles of oil and balm cleansers is that “oil attracts oil.” These cleansers dissolve the dirt and sebum on your skin, along with makeup and SPF, without disrupting the skin barrier.
Hydration during cleansing:
Because these cleansers are oil-based, they nourish the skin as they cleanse. Instead of leaving a dried-out feeling, your skin feels soft and supple after cleansing.
Suitable for all skin types:
Despite being oil-based, oil and balm cleansers aren’t just for dry skin. Even those with oily skin can benefit from these cleansers, as they help restore the skin’s natural balance without disrupting sebum production.
The Benefits of Oil and Balm Cleansers in Fall
1. Protection against dehydration
During the fall, your skin is often exposed to cold outdoor air and dry indoor air from heating systems. This can lead to dehydration and a disrupted skin barrier. Oil and balm cleansers help protect the skin barrier by hydrating and nourishing the skin while cleansing.
2. Mild cleansing without irritation
Harsh cleansers can irritate your skin, especially if it’s already sensitive from the cold weather. Oil and balm cleansers are gentler on your skin, removing dirt and impurities without that tight, dry feeling that often occurs after using foaming cleansers.
3. Multifunctional cleaning
Oil and balm cleansers are great for removing makeup and SPF without the need for a separate makeup remover. This makes your skincare routine more efficient, which is especially helpful in the fall when you might be using a thicker layer of foundation or a stronger SPF.
4. Restore the skin barrier
With their soothing ingredients, oil and balm cleansers help strengthen the skin barrier. This is essential in the fall, when the skin is more sensitive to external influences such as wind and cold.
How do you use an oil or balm cleanser?
Using an oil or balm cleanser is simple, but slightly different than how you would use a regular foaming cleanser. Here are some steps to get the best results:
Apply to dry skin:
Apply the oil or balm directly to your dry face. Gently massage the product in circular motions over your skin to loosen makeup, dirt and excess oil.
Emulsification:
Then add a little water and massage again. The oil or balm will turn into a milky substance that will remove dirt and impurities from your skin without drying it out.
Rinse:
Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
Optional: Second cleaning:
If you’re following a double cleansing routine, you can follow up with a gentle, water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities. This is especially helpful for those with oilier skin.
Which oil and balm cleansers are suitable?
Here are a few ingredients to look for when choosing the right oil or balm cleanser:
Jojoba oil:
This light oil resembles the skin's natural sebum and hydrates without clogging pores.
Avocado oil:
A nourishing oil rich in vitamins and minerals, ideal for dry skin types.
Shea butter:
A commonly used ingredient in balm cleansers for its rich, nourishing properties that help to soften and protect the skin.
Vitamin E:
An antioxidant often added to protect the skin from free radical damage and to support the skin barrier.
Conclusion: Gentle cleansing for the perfect fall routine
Switching to an oil or balm cleanser is a smart move for fall. These cleansers help keep your skin supple, nourished, and hydrated during the colder months without disrupting its natural balance. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, gentle cleansing is key to keeping your skin healthy and glowing this fall.
Curious about the best products to try? Contact me for personal skin advice, product recommendations and extra tips to perfect your fall skincare routine!