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Hey there, beautiful people! Welcome back to Beautyistic, where honest beauty meets science and style. If you’re like me, finding a cleanser that truly melts makeup without stripping your skin can feel like searching for a unicorn. Well, I’ve got something interesting to share — e.l.f. SKIN’s Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm. It promises to dissolve makeup gently while hydrating your skin with some seriously skin-loving ingredients. Let’s see how it holds up.
This balm starts off solid in the jar but transforms into a luxurious oil as you massage it in. Then, when you add water, it shifts again — into a silky milk that rinses off clean. The star players in the formula are hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides — all fantastic for maintaining moisture and reinforcing your skin’s natural barrier. It’s designed for all skin types, which is great if you’re juggling dry, oily, or combination skin. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, double-certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA, which is always a big plus if you care about ethical beauty.
I incorporated this balm into my nightly routine for a couple of weeks. It was super easy to use — a small scoop warmed up quickly between my fingers, then glided over my face, effortlessly breaking down stubborn makeup, including waterproof mascara. I liked that it didn’t leave a greasy residue after rinsing; instead, my skin felt soft, plump, and hydrated without that tight, squeaky clean sensation. Perfect if you hate the dryness some cleansers cause. The scent is very mild, which is great for sensitive noses. I also tried the suggested double cleanse method with e.l.f.’s Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser afterward, and it gave me that ultra-clean, fresh feeling without stripping.
Now, nothing’s perfect, right? The jar packaging is simple but not the most hygienic — you’ll want to use a clean spatula or clean hands every time to avoid contamination. Also, while it rinses off cleanly, some might find the texture a bit thick or heavy if you prefer gel or foam cleansers. For oily skin types, that slight richness might feel a touch much, especially in humid weather.
So what’s good here? The texture transformation is satisfying and fun, the makeup removal power is impressive, and the hydration is undeniable thanks to those ceramides and peptides. The gentle formula respects sensitive skin and keeps the barrier happy. On the downside, the jar format and slightly heavier feel could be a no-go for some. Plus, if you’re on a tight budget, it’s mid-priced but not the cheapest balm cleanser out there.
Speaking of which, if you want a budget-friendly alternative with similar hydrating benefits, The Inkey List’s Oat Cleansing Balm is worth checking out. It’s a bit more wallet-friendly and also focuses on gentle cleansing with soothing ingredients. But if you want a product that combines fun texture, solid hydrating ingredients, and ethical certification, e.l.f. really nails that balance.
Packaging-wise, the tub is sturdy plastic, travel-friendly if you’re careful not to spill, but definitely better suited for home use. I haven’t tested longevity extensively yet, but given the quality ingredients, this should last a good few months with regular use. As for customer service, e.l.f. has a solid reputation for responsiveness and a generous return policy, which adds peace of mind when trying new products.
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Wrapping it up, the e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm is a genuinely effective and nourishing cleanser for anyone who wants to remove makeup without compromising skin hydration. It’s especially suited for dry to normal and sensitive skin types who appreciate a product that supports their skin’s moisture barrier. If you want something lightweight, this might feel too rich, but overall, it’s a well-rounded balm that lives up to its claims.
If you’ve tried this balm, drop a comment below! Let us know your experience. Was it your go-to for melting makeup or did you find it lacking? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay beautiful inside and out!
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