Cleansing balms are the way to go if you want fuss-free makeup removal and a cleanser built into one. There’s nothing like massaging a day’s worth of makeup off with no fuss or struggle. I’ve been using the Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm for a few years now, but when the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Makeup Cleansing 3-in-1 Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm came onto the scene I just had to find out which one was superior.
Let’s talk specifics first. They’re both white, gloopy pastes you spread onto your makeup covered face dry, massage around, then rinse off. Clinique’s offering is $29 for 3.8 oz while the Bye Bye Makeup Cleansing Balm is $38 for 2.82 oz despite having the larger packaging. Definitely when it comes to makeup products size doesn’t necessarily mean more product. Packaging wise I do like the IT Cosmetics container more. It feels higher quality and the satin matte finish is a nice touch. The Clinique one suggests a 24 month shelf life while IT Cosmetics only suggests 12.
When it comes to actual usage, the two are almost identical. They apply the same way, lather up when water is added, and remove the same amount of makeup. My skin feels clean, but not dry after using either one. The Clinique one does make my skin feel slightly more buttery although I never end my routine at this step so it really doesn’t matter too much.
They’re basically the same product, but I find the Clinique one to be a much better, longer lasting deal than the other. I can pass up prettier packaging for more product and a longer expiration date. No matter how much I love IT Cosmetics as a brand, Clinique wins this one.
