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If you’re searching for a cleansing balm that removes makeup effortlessly while supporting your skin barrier, this could be it. Here’s everything you need to know about the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm, including how it works, key ingredients, and my full review.

If you’re still exploring your options, check out my guide to the best cleansers: Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.

What is Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm?

This is a solid-to-oil cleansing balm designed to melt away makeup, SPF and impurities while nourishing the skin. It’s formulated with barrier-supporting lipids and is designed to work as both a first cleanse in a double cleansing routine or as a standalone cleanser.

Key Benefits

• Effectively removes long-wear makeup and SPF
• Transforms from balm to oil to milk
• Supports the skin barrier
• Leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated
• No tight or stripped feeling
• Suitable for dry and sensitive skin types

How to Use It

Shave a small amount and apply directly to dry skin. Massage to melt down makeup and impurities, add water to emulsify into a milky texture, then rinse or remove with a warm cloth.

Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm Review

I have to admit, I didn’t expect Murad to launch a cleansing balm, but I’m really happy they did because this is a genuinely lovely product to use.

First of all, the packaging is very clever. Instead of dipping your fingers into a tub, you sort of shave off a small layer of balm. It actually reminds me a bit of sharpening a pencil, and you can get just the right amount each time. You really don’t need much either, just a small “triangle” worth is plenty. There’s no need to overload it.

I also found that I prefer melting it directly onto my face rather than warming it up in my hands first. It just feels neater and more controlled. The texture starts off slightly firm and a tiny bit lumpy, but it quickly transforms into a beautifully smooth oil that feels really elegant on the skin.

It’s a lovely product to massage in. I like to take my time with it, and it does an excellent job of breaking down makeup and SPF. It removes pretty much everything with ease, including long-wear formulas.

The scent is quite coconutty, but in a natural way, not artificial or overly perfumed. It just smells clean and comforting.

Once you add water, it emulsifies really nicely into a soft milk. I usually remove it with a warm cloth, and my skin is left feeling incredibly soft, smooth, and hydrated. Importantly, it never feels stripped or tight, which is exactly what I want from a cleansing balm.

It’s also very gentle around the eyes. It doesn’t sting and doesn’t leave that annoying cloudy film, which is a big win. I also really like how efficient it feels to use. Not having to dip fingers into a jar makes it feel more hygienic and just a bit more streamlined overall.

Murad says there’s no need to double cleanse with this, and while I would generally still use it as a first cleanse, I have used it on its own and it does remove everything well.

In terms of skincare benefits, I love that it includes ceramides for barrier support and fermented camellia oil, which helps it rinse away cleanly while still feeling nourishing. It’s a great option if your skin is feeling dry or compromised and you want something that cleanses without disrupting your barrier.

Overall, the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm is just a really lovely, well-thought-out product. If you enjoy cleansing balms, this is definitely one to try.

Texture & Formula

• Solid balm that softens on contact
• Melts into a silky oil
• Emulsifies into a milky cleanser
• Rinses clean without residue

Who is it Best For?

• Dry or dehydrated skin
• Anyone looking to support their skin barrier
• Fans of cleansing balms
• Those who wear long-wear makeup or SPF
• Anyone who prefers a more hygienic balm format

Do You Need to Double Cleanse with the Murad Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm?

Technically, you don’t have to. This does a thorough job on its own. However, if you enjoy a double cleansing routine, it works perfectly as a first cleanse before going in with a second cleanser.

To check out all my favourite cleansers, read: Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.

Final Thoughts

This is a really strong addition to the cleansing balm category. It combines effective makeup removal with genuine skincare benefits, and the packaging makes it feel fresh and a bit more elevated than your standard balm.

If your priority is clean, soft, hydrated skin without any stripping, this absolutely delivers.

Cleansing Balm vs Cleansing Oil. What’s the Difference?

This is something I get asked about a lot, and honestly, cleansing balms and cleansing oils essentially do the same job. Both are designed to break down makeup, SPF, excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin.

The main difference is really the texture and experience of using them. A cleansing balm starts as a solid texture that melts down into an oil as you massage it into the skin. That transformation process is part of the appeal. You get a bit more playtime and more of that facial massage element, which can make your cleansing routine feel more luxurious and spa-like.

A cleansing oil skips that first stage because it’s already in liquid form. It’s usually a little quicker and more straightforward to use, especially if you want something fast and efficient at the end of the day.

In terms of performance, neither is necessarily better than the other. It really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer cleansing balms because they feel richer and more nourishing, especially if they have dry skin. Others love cleansing oils because they feel lightweight, quick and easy to rinse away.

Generally speaking:

• Cleansing balms can feel a little more comforting and cocooning on dry skin
• Cleansing oils are often preferred by those who like a lighter texture
• Balms tend to offer a more sensorial experience
• Oils can feel slightly quicker and less messy to use
• Both work brilliantly for removing makeup and SPF

The important thing is finding a formula that removes everything effectively without leaving your skin feeling tight or stripped afterwards.

Murad’s Lipid-Enriched Double Cleansing Balm definitely leans into the more luxurious, treatment-style cleansing experience while still rinsing away really cleanly.

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