As featured in Allure, by Christa Joanna Lee and Lily Wohlner, November 9, 2026
A great skincare routine starts with a clean slate. Dr. Morgana Colombo, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of Reston and founder of Vidaderma, was one of the dermatologists Allure consulted for its roundup of the best face washes, sharing her take on its top pick for removing makeup.
Dr. Colombo's pick for removing makeup
Allure named the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm, a 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner, its best makeup remover. Dr. Colombo explained what makes it work so well:
"[It] has a really satisfying balm-to-oil texture that makes taking your makeup off feel so easy and luxurious." Dr. Morgana Colombo, via Allure
Massaged onto dry skin, the balm breaks down foundation, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen, then turns milky with water so it rinses away clean.
Why gentle makeup removal matters
The best part, according to Dr. Colombo, is that it does the work without any harsh rubbing:
"You're never tugging or scrubbing at your skin with this cleanser." Dr. Morgana Colombo, via Allure
A tip for sensitive skin
The original formula contains fragrant essential oils. If your skin is easily irritated, Dr. Colombo recommends choosing the fragrance-free version instead.
Book an appointment with Dr. Colombo
A longevity approach to cleansing
At Vidaderma, we believe a gentle cleanse that protects the skin barrier is the foundation of healthy skin at every age. Explore our cleansers, learn more in The Skin Longevity Framework, or take the skin quiz to build your routine.
Want more from Dr. Colombo on cleansing balms? Read why cleansing balms matter for mature skin, as featured in Oprah Daily.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best cleansing balm for removing makeup?
Allure named the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm its best makeup remover, and Dr. Colombo praises its balm-to-oil texture for making makeup removal easy.
Do cleansing balms remove waterproof mascara?
Yes. As Allure notes, the Farmacy balm breaks down foundation, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen.
Is a cleansing balm okay for sensitive skin?
It depends on the formula. Dr. Colombo recommends a fragrance-free version if your skin is easily irritated.
