Melts sunscreen and most makeup without leaving skin tight, fragrance-free and soothing for normal to sensitive types.
We may earn a small referral fee
If you want a cleansing balm that melts off sunscreen and makeup without leaving your skin tight, Clinique's cult favorite is an easy one to consider. The bigger question is whether its simple formula and higher price make sense for your skin and your budget.
Overview
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a fragrance-free first cleanser designed to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup. It starts as a firm balm, then melts into a silky oil as you massage it in. The promise is simple: remove the day thoroughly, rinse clean enough to follow with your regular cleanser, and do it without stripping the skin.
Key Specs
| Brand | Clinique |
|---|---|
| Product type | Cleansing balm |
| Price | About $39 for 3.8 oz, depending on retailer |
| Size | 3.8 oz jar |
| Texture | Solid balm that melts into oil |
| Fragrance | Fragrance-free |
| Best for | Removing sunscreen, foundation, and eye makeup |
| Skin types | Most skin types, especially normal, dry, and sensitive |
| Packaging | Wide-mouth jar |
| How to use | Massage onto dry skin, add water to emulsify, then rinse |
Who It’s For
This balm is best for shoppers who wear sunscreen daily, use light to full makeup, or want a gentle first cleanse without added fragrance. It is especially appealing for normal, dry, or sensitive skin. It is less ideal for people who want a one-step cleanser, dislike jar packaging, or need something very budget friendly.
Performance & Feel
The texture is what made this balm popular in the first place. It looks firm in the jar, but it softens almost instantly between dry fingertips. Once it hits the skin, it spreads easily and gives enough slip to massage without tugging. You do not need much. A small scoop is usually enough for the whole face.
On makeup removal, it does a very solid job. It breaks down foundation, tinted sunscreen, blush, and most eye makeup quickly. On heavier waterproof mascara or long-wear liner, it still works, but it usually needs a little extra massage around the lashes. If too much gets directly into the eyes, it can leave that temporary blurry film many oil cleansers do, so I would still use a light hand in that area.
Once you add water, it turns milky and rinses better than a plain oil, but not quite as clean as some newer balm formulas. That is where opinions usually split. If your skin leans dry, that slight cushion after rinsing can feel comfortable and protective. If your skin is oily, acne-prone, or easily congested, you will probably prefer following with a gentle water-based cleanser every time.
What I like most is how non-stripping it feels. There is no strong scent, no cooling sensation, and no fussy actives trying to do too much. It just removes makeup reliably. That makes it a good choice for sensitive skin types who want a low-drama cleanser. The main tradeoff is value. It works well, but it is also expensive for a fairly straightforward formula, especially now that there are many lower-priced balms that perform similarly.
The jar packaging is fine, not exceptional. It is easy to scoop from, but a jar is never the neatest option for the bathroom counter. Using clean, dry hands helps keep the texture from getting messy, and if you like a more hygienic routine, a small spatula is worth keeping nearby. None of that is a dealbreaker, but for the price, some shoppers may wish it came in a format that felt a little more polished.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
- Melts down quickly and removes sunscreen and makeup with very little effort.
- Fragrance-free formula is a good fit for sensitive or easily irritated skin.
- Leaves skin soft and comfortable instead of tight or squeaky.
- A little goes a long way, so one jar can last a while with nightly use.
- Cons
- Price is high for a simple cleansing balm.
- Jar packaging is less convenient and less tidy than a tube or pump.
- Can leave a light residue, so many people will still want a second cleanse.
💡 Editor’s Final Thoughts
Yes, I think Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is worth it for shoppers who want a dependable, gentle, fragrance-free first cleanse and do not mind paying more for consistency. I would recommend it most for normal, dry, and sensitive skin, especially if you double cleanse at night. If your budget is tight or you prefer a cleaner rinse, there are less expensive options that come very close.
See also
If you like the idea of this balm but not the price, start with these best drugstore dupes for luxury cleansing balms.
- Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser review for a fresh second-cleanse option after balm cleansing
- See our review of the COSRX low pH cleanser if you want a lighter gel wash for morning or post-balm use
- Neutrogena Ultra Gentle hydrating cleanser review for a budget-friendly follow-up cleanser
- Urban Skin Rx Even Tone cleansing bar review if you are comparing cleansing formats beyond balms
Frequently Asked Questions ▾
Is Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm good for sensitive skin?
For many people, yes. The biggest reason is that it is fragrance-free and not loaded with extra actives. It feels simple and gentle, which is often what sensitive skin needs in a makeup remover. Of course, very reactive skin can still dislike almost anything, so patch testing is still smart.
Does it remove waterproof mascara?
Usually yes, but it may take a little extra massage time. It handles regular mascara and most eye makeup easily, while heavier waterproof formulas can need a second pass. If you get it directly into the eyes, expect some temporary blurry vision until you rinse thoroughly.
Do I need to use another cleanser after it?
Most people should, especially at night. This balm works best as a first cleanse to loosen sunscreen, makeup, and oil. A gentle second cleanser helps remove any leftover film and leaves the skin feeling cleaner, which is especially helpful for oily or acne-prone skin.
How long does one jar last?
If you use it nightly and stick to a small scoop, a jar can last a few months. Heavy makeup wearers may go through it faster, while lighter users can stretch it longer. The product is concentrated enough that overusing it is usually unnecessary.
Is it worth the money compared with cheaper cleansing balms?
It depends on what matters most to you. If you want a classic, reliable, fragrance-free formula from a well-known brand, it is still a very good buy. If your top priority is value, there are now several lower-priced balms that remove makeup almost as well, so this one no longer feels as unmatched as it once did.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on our site.