Can Cleansing Balms Cause Acne? What You Need to Know About Balms, Breakouts & Better Skin

If you’ve been battling breakouts or struggling with sensitive skin, the idea of using an oil-based product like a cleansing balm might sound like a recipe for disaster. But the truth is, when used correctly, a good cleansing balm can actually help improve your skin's appearance, even if you’re prone to acne.

Our Balancing Cleansing Balm is specially formulated with acne-prone and sensitive skin in mind. In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions around cleansing balms, acne, and what to look for in a product that won’t clog your pores, or your confidence.

Can A Cleansing Balm Cause Acne?

Short answer: Yes, but only if you're using the wrong one or applying it incorrectly.

Because cleansing balms are typically rich in oils, they can cause breakouts if they contain comedogenic ingredients (pore-clogging oils or waxes), or if they’re not fully removed from your skin. That residue can trap dirt, bacteria, and excess sebum, creating the perfect storm for a breakout.

How to Avoid Breakouts when using a Cleansing Balm:

• Look for “non-comedogenic” on the label, this means the product is formulated not to clog pores
• Avoid heavy, pore-clogging ingredients like coconut oil or thick waxes if you're acne-prone
• Always remove thoroughly, rinse with warm water and a soft cloth (such as our muslin cloths) or follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser (double cleansing)

💡 Pro tip: Our Balancing Cleansing Balm is crafted with non-comedogenic oils and zero heavy waxes, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Can Cleansing Balm Clog Pores?

It can, but it doesn’t have to. Poor quality cleansing balms or those with rich, heavy oils can clog your pores, especially if you already produce excess oil or are prone to blackheads and breakouts.

How to Prevent Pore Clogging:

• Choose non-comedogenic formulas
• Make it part of a double cleanse routine, especially if you wear makeup or SPF
• Consider your skin type, oily and acne-prone skin may benefit from lightweight balms that rinse clean

Can Cleansing Balm Help with Blackheads?

Yes! A high-quality cleansing balm can actually help reduce blackheads by dissolving the oil, dirt, and dead skin that gets stuck in your pores.

How It Works:

• Oil attracts oil: the oils in a cleansing balm bind to the sebum and grime in your pores, gently lifting them out
• Gentle exfoliation: when massaged into the skin, the balm can loosen and dislodge build-up, making blackheads easier to manage
• Consistency matters: using a balm regularly can help prevent new blackheads from forming

Can Cleansing Balm Remove Sebaceous Filaments?

Yes, and this is one of the most underrated benefits of using a cleansing balm.

Sebaceous filaments look like tiny dots on your nose or chin, and while they’re not the same as blackheads, they often get confused with them. They’re totally normal, but if you’d like to minimise their appearance, oil cleansing is one of the most effective methods.

Why It Works:

• Oil dissolves oil: Cleansing balms break down the sebum and debris inside pores without stripping your skin
• Gentle but effective: No scrubbing or harsh acids—just a calm, skin-loving cleanse
• Pair with water-based cleanser: For best results, follow up with a mild second cleanse to rinse everything away

Can Cleansing Balm Remove Lash Extensions?

Unfortunately, yes. If you're wearing lash extensions, you'll want to avoid oil-based balms entirely.

The oils in most cleansing balms break down the lash adhesive, causing your extensions to shed prematurely.

Even a small amount of residue can weaken the bond over time, instead switch to a lash-safe cleanser, typically a water-based, oil-free formula. Be gentle around the eye area, and use a soft cotton pad if needed.

Do I Need a Cloth to Use a Cleansing Balm?

Technically, no. But if you want the best results from your cleansing balm (and who doesn’t?), we highly recommend using a reusable cloth or pad to remove it. This helps lift away all traces of balm, dirt, and SPF, leaving your skin clean and balanced, not coated in residue.

At PERL, we offer two planet-friendly options to elevate your cleansing routine:

Muslin Cloths, made from 100% cotton with a dual-texture weave, our muslin cloths provide:

• Gentle exfoliation to buff away dead skin cells
• Enhanced removal of cleansing balm and impurities
• A soft, soothing finish to your cleansing ritual
• A sustainable alternative to single-use wipes or pads
• Perfect if you want that subtle exfoliating feel with every cleanse

Bamboo Cleansing Pads, crafted from ultra-soft bamboo cotton, our reusable cleansing pads are ideal for:

• Sensitive or reactive skin that needs a gentler touch
• Targeted cleansing (like eye makeup or around the nose)
• A zero-waste routine that’s kinder to the planet
• These are especially great if you prefer a more delicate cleanse or want an eco-friendly swap for cotton wool pads

Whether you’re all about gentle exfoliation or ultra-soft comfort, pairing your balm with one of our reusable options helps ensure a deeper cleanse without harshness or waste

Choosing the Right Cleansing Balm for Acne-Prone Skin

Here’s what to look for when shopping:

✅ Must-Haves	❌ Avoid
Non-comedogenic ingredients	Coconut oil (unless fractionated)
Essential fatty acids (like hemp or jojoba oil)	Heavy waxes
Fragrance-free or low fragrance	Synthetic dyes or added perfumes
Antioxidants and calming botanicals	Essential oils (for sensitive skin)

 

Our Balancing Cleansing Balm is formulated with plant-powered ingredients designed to nourish while balancing oil levels, without clogging pores.

Want to Build a Routine That Works? Start with a Bundle

If you're looking to upgrade your cleansing routine or want the full PERL experience, our Balancing Cleansing Balm is included in two of our most-loved skincare bundles:

The Bestseller Bundle

Your go-to for glowing skin. This set features a curated selection of our top-rated products, including the Balancing Cleansing Balm and muslin cloths, perfect for those who want our cult classics in one place.

Ideal for: all skin types, gift-giving, or trying our most popular products in one go.

The Fresh Face Bundle

Designed for those who want clean, balanced, healthy skin with minimal fuss. This bundle includes the Balancing Cleansing Balm and our Bamboo Cleansing Pads, a match made for gentle, effective everyday cleansing.

Ideal for: acne-prone, sensitive, or oily skin types looking for a simple, no-fuss routine.

Final Thoughts: Can Cleansing Balm Help or Harm Acne-Prone Skin?

It all comes down to ingredients, technique, and skin type. A high-quality, non-comedogenic cleansing balm can be a game-changer for people with acne, blackheads, or sebaceous filaments, as long as it’s removed properly and used consistently.

Whether you’re rebuilding your routine or looking for a gentler way to cleanse, our Balancing Cleansing Balm offers a skin-friendly, pore-purifying solution designed to support your skin, not stress it out.

Explore the benefits of our gentle yet effective Balancing Cleansing Balm and start your skin-balancing journey today.

FAQs

Does cleansing balm cause purging?

Sometimes. If you're using active ingredients for the first time, your skin might “purge” as it adjusts. This is temporary and different from acne caused by clogged pores.

Can I use cleansing balm every day?

Yes! It’s safe for daily use, especially as the first step in a double cleanse routine.

Should I use cleansing balm if I don’t wear makeup?

Absolutely. Cleansing balms remove excess oil, pollution, and SPF, not just makeup.

Is cleansing balm good for sensitive skin?

Yes, as long as it’s free from harsh fragrances or essential oils. Look for calming ingredients like chamomile, oat extract, or calendula.