Lat. Hydration · Long. BarrierIndependent skincare field guide — 204 products mapped · updated October 2026
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Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing BalmClinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm (view 2)Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm (view 3)Cleansers

Cleansersby Clinique

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a reliable, dermatologist-trusted makeup remover that excels at breaking down even waterproof formulas while keeping skin comfortable.

4.5
Dewy Atlas score4.5 / 5
  • Results4.6
  • Gentleness4.5
  • Texture4.5
  • Value4.5
  • Melts away waterproof makeup
  • Gentle on sensitive eyes
  • Leaves skin soft
Skin type
All skin types, including sensitive
Texture
Balm-to-oil
Size
125 ml / 4.2 fl oz
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Overview

What it is & who it suits

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a melt-in makeup remover and cleanser designed to dissolve even the most stubborn long-wear and waterproof cosmetics without tugging or irritating the skin. Its rich, solid balm texture transforms into a silky oil the moment it meets warm palms, gliding effortlessly over the face to break down mascara, foundation, lipstick, and SPF residue. This gentle liquefying action means you can massage your skin without friction, making it especially appealing to those with sensitive eyes or delicate complexions who want a thorough cleanse without harsh rubbing or stinging.

What sets this balm apart is its ability to deliver a deep clean while still respecting the skin's natural moisture barrier. Formulated without soap, it rinses away with warm water to reveal skin that feels soft, supple, and never stripped or tight. The emulsification process, where the balm turns milky as water is added, signals that makeup and impurities are being lifted away rather than smeared further into pores.

This dual action of dissolving and rinsing clean makes it a popular first step in double-cleansing routines, paired well with a follow-up gel or foam cleanser for those who wear heavier makeup or sunscreen daily. Suitable for most skin types, including those prone to dryness or occasional sensitivity, the balm has earned a reputation as a holy-grail product in many skincare routines thanks to its gentle yet effective formula. It is fragrance-conscious and dermatologist-tested, aligning with Clinique's long-standing allergy-tested philosophy.

Housed in a travel-friendly jar, it has become a staple for makeup lovers, estheticians, and skincare minimalists alike who value a cleanser that treats the skin with care while still tackling a full face of makeup, leaving the complexion feeling calm, hydrated, and genuinely clean.

Key features

  • Oil-based balm that melts into skin for dissolving makeup
  • Removes waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation
  • Emulsifies with water to rinse clean without residue
  • Fragrance-free and ophthalmologist tested
  • Suitable for use as first step in double cleansing
  • Formulated without parabens or sulfates

Specifications

The formula, by the numbers

Size
125 ml / 4.2 fl oz
Skin Type
All skin types, including sensitive
Fragrance
Fragrance-free
Texture
Balm-to-oil
Dermatologist Tested
Yes

Pros & cons

What we liked, what we didn’t

Pros

  • Effectively dissolves even stubborn waterproof makeup
  • Leaves skin feeling soft, not stripped or tight
  • Gentle enough for daily use and sensitive eyes
  • Pleasant texture that transforms from balm to oil to milky rinse
  • Works well as part of a double-cleanse routine
  • Multi-use: face, eyes, and lips

Cons

  • Jar packaging can feel less hygienic with wet fingers
  • Requires a second cleanser for a deeper clean
  • Slightly pricier than drugstore alternatives
  • Can leave a faint residue if not rinsed thoroughly
  • Not ideal for very oily or acne-prone skin as a standalone cleanser
4.5Our score

The verdict

Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a reliable, dermatologist-trusted makeup remover that excels at breaking down even waterproof formulas while keeping skin comfortable. It's best used as the first step in a double-cleanse routine for those wanting thorough, gentle makeup removal without harsh stripping.

Check price on Amazon

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