This Korean Product Completely Changed My Opinion of Cleansing Balms For Good

I have been skeptical of cleansing balms for years. I've had countless cult-status products cross my desk, but no matter how popular and proven the balms were for others, they never worked for me. Recently, I was introduced to the K-beauty brand Banila Co.'s Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Purifying ($24) and decided to give it a try because I had heard so much about the product's popularity in Asia. The brand assured me that the Purifying version wouldn't overwhelm my oily skin, so I took it home eager to test it out.

The product comes with a small spatula to keep bacteria away from the product and allow you to scoop out the perfect amount from the jar. The consistency is rich and sherbet-like and promises to cleanse skin without stripping it of natural oils. When I first applied it on my dry skin, I felt the balm melt into an oil as I rubbed it into my face with my fingers.

I typically wear a lot of skin care and makeup, including sunscreen, full-coverage foundation, concealer, mascara, and liquid eyeliner. Removing them at the end of the day is usually at least a three- to four-step process, starting with a makeup wipe, proceeding to a micellar water and eye makeup remover, and ending with a cleanser. I was shocked that this balm truly removed every last trace of makeup from my face in a matter of seconds, and I didn't have to follow it up with any other product.

After I rinsed it off, I was surprised that I didn't feel any residue on my face. I expected to want to wash a second time with a cleanser to remove an oily feeling on my face, but there was none whatsoever. After using this balm, my skin feels hydrated and completely clean. Plus, it's so gentle that it hasn't irritated my skin, caused any redness, or aggravated my acne.

While I was initially a skeptic, this balm has converted me into a cleansing balm fan. It hasn't left my bathroom sink since I got it, and I'm thinking of purchasing a few backups so I never have to go a day without it.