Elemis’ Cleansing Balm is a TikTok-famous skincare icon loved for its magical makeup-melting abilities — but these impressive dupes deliver similar results for less.
Few skincare products have reached the same cult status as the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. A regular fixture on TikTok ‘holy grail’ lists, it’s praised for its rich texture, essential oil blend and ability to dissolve makeup, SPF and daily grime in one luxurious step.
That said, at £52, it’s not exactly an everyday essential for everyone. The good news is that cleansing balms have come a long way in recent years, with affordable formulas now offering equally effective cleansing, skin-softening finishes and even glow-boosting benefits.
From Korean skincare favourites to high-street staples, these are the best Elemis cleansing balm dupes worth your money.
Lacura Cleansing Balm
Best for: best budget pick — if you want a super-low-cost balm that still gets the job
A standout budget alternative that’s earned a bit of cult status of its own, this Lacura cleansing balm from Aldi’s beauty range transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil that melts away foundation, SPF and grime with surprising ease.
It has a lightweight, non-greasy feel and is effective at makeup removal — even waterproof formulas are no match.
Buy in-store at Aldi for £5.99.
Read more: Do Aldi’s Lacura dupes actually work? Beauty experts investigate Sol de Janeiro, Aveeno and Paula’s Choice alternatives
Dr Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
Best for: anyone who wants a smoother, easier-melting alternative to Elemis, especially daily makeup wearers
This Korean skincare favourite is not only one of the most innovative cleansing balms we’ve tried, but also my personal favourite overall. I use it every day, and it consistently outperforms far more expensive formulas — including Elemis.
The balm is dispensed via a clever grinding mechanism, which keeps the formula hygienic while delivering the perfect amount of product. Texture-wise, it’s where Dr Althea really shines. Softer and silkier than Elemis, it melts into the skin almost instantly, breaking down makeup with minimal effort. By comparison, the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm can sometimes feel a little thick and harder to warm up between the fingers.
Dr Althea glides smoothly over skin, removes even stubborn mascara without tugging, and rinses away clean, leaving skin calm, cushioned and never greasy. For under £20, it’s an exceptional alternative.
e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
Best for: affordable, no-fuss cleansing for all skin types
A long-time favourite among budget beauty fans, this e.l.f. cleansing balm punches well above its price point. It melts quickly on contact, dissolves makeup efficiently and emulsifies beautifully with water, leaving no residue behind.
Despite the low price, it doesn’t skimp on hydration, making it a reliable everyday option for those who want effective cleansing without spending big.
Beauty Of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
Best for: dull or dehydrated skin in need of radiance
This cult Korean cleansing balm is loved for its gentle yet effective formula. Enriched with traditional herbal ingredients, it removes makeup thoroughly while supporting the skin barrier and enhancing radiance.
The texture is lightweight but nourishing, making it ideal for those who love the glow the Elemis balm gives, without the heavy feel.
CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
Best for: very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
Designed with sensitive skin in mind, CeraVe’s fragrance-free cleansing balm is all about function over frills. It removes makeup and impurities effectively while helping to maintain the skin’s protective barrier, thanks to its ceramide-rich formula.
It may lack the spa-like experience of Elemis, but it delivers reliable results with minimal risk of irritation.
Buy from Superdrug for £14.49.
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
Best for: dry, stressed or sensitised skin
A cult classic, this oat-based cleansing balm is exceptionally soothing and nourishing. It’s particularly good for skin that feels dry, irritated or over-exfoliated, gently removing makeup while calming redness.
The texture is rich without being heavy, making it a brilliant Elemis dupe for compromised skin.
Buy from Look Fantastic for £12.
Revolution Pro Miracle Vegan Collagen Cleansing Balm
Best for: mature skin or those wanting a pampering cleanse
This vegan-friendly balm is designed to give skin a plumped, soft finish after cleansing. It melts makeup effectively and leaves skin feeling noticeably supple, making it a great option for those who enjoy the indulgent feel of Elemis.
It’s a strong choice for evening cleanses when you want skincare to feel a little more luxurious.
Buy from Superdrug for £14.99.
Pure Purifying Cleansing Balm
Best for: oily or combination skin
Simple, effective and refreshingly no-nonsense, this cleansing balm does exactly what it promises. It emulsifies well, rinses clean and leaves skin balanced rather than stripped.
A great under-the-radar option for those who prefer straightforward formulas without added fragrance or heaviness.
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
Best for: heavy makeup wearers and contact lens users
Often considered the benchmark for makeup-removing balms, Clinique’s Take The Day Off remains a classic for good reason. It removes even heavy makeup effortlessly, is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive eyes.
While it’s one of the pricier options here, it still undercuts Elemis by a fair margin and delivers equally impressive results.
Buy from Look Fantastic for £34.
Feature image: Look Fantastic/Canva
