I did the two-step cleanse for a month. My bathroom sink got very, very oily.
The real test? Seeing if my nighttime serum actually sank in for once — or just sat on a layer of sunscreen residue.
It’s the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm. $40 for 3.7 oz. The claim? It melts makeup and “nourishes” while it cleanses.
The Texture Shift
Starts as a solid balm, turns to a silky oil on your face.
The Scent
A real tangerine — not a candy orange.
The Rinse
Emulsifies with water into a milky liquid, no harsh scrubbing needed.
It’s mostly oils and butters. The hero is sea buckthorn oil — it’s a bright orange color, which is why the balm looks like marmalade.
- Sea Buckthorn Oil: antioxidant powerhouse, gives it that orange hue
- Shea Butter: for that melt-y slip
- Japanese Licorice Root: for calming
- Papaya Enzyme: a gentle exfoliant you wouldn’t expect here
It feels luxurious. Like spreading softened butter on warm toast — but for your face. No gritty bits.
Week 2 surprise? My waterproof mascara dissolved in 15 seconds flat. The downside? That orange oil can stain a white washcloth. Be warned.
My skin felt softer immediately. After 3 weeks, my pores looked less clogged around my nose. Zero change in blackheads, though.
Double cleansing works. This balm is a delight. But is it necessary? For clear, balanced skin — absolutely. For the perfect balm? This is a top contender.