My pores were staging a rebellion. Foundation sat on top, blackheads were moving in — it was a mess.
The theory is simple: an oil-based cleanser first to dissolve sunscreen and makeup, then a water-based one to wash away sweat and dirt. Miss the first step, and you’re just smearing grime around.
Enter the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm. $38 for 3.7 oz. It promises to melt everything and rinse clean — no oily film.
The Texture
Starts as a solid balm, transforms into a silky oil on contact.
The Scent
A subtle, herbal tangerine — not a fake candy smell.
The Finish
Supposedly rinses with water alone, no second cleanser needed. Bold claim.
Photo: Angelina / Unsplash
It’s an oil cleanser, so the base is all emollients. But the hero ingredients are there for your skin, not just the makeup.
- Sea Buckthorn Oil: Antioxidant-rich, helps with redness
- Japanese Licorice Root: Brightens dark spots
- Japanese Meadowsweet: Gentle exfoliation
- Anthemis Nobilis Flower: Soothing
It feels luxurious — like spreading melted sherbet. It dissolves a full face of makeup in 20 seconds flat.
Surprise: it *does* rinse clean with water. But my combo skin still felt better following with a gel cleanser. The balm alone felt like skipping conditioner after shampoo.
After 4 weeks, my foundation applies smoother. No new clogged pores on my cheeks. My t-zone? Still oily by 3 PM — this isn’t a pore-vacuum.
Double cleansing isn’t hype — it’s a legit reset button for your face. This balm makes the first step a pleasure, not a chore.