how to balm

the bottom line

Balms can be quirky creatures. Usually firm, occasionally soft, and sometimes even gel-like, balms have a myriad of uses. However, even the correct definition of a balm and its indications for use are confusing. While they may contain a host of active ingredients, their best method for use can be elusive. Keep reading to learn more about this wonderfully versatile beauty formulation.

first layer: what is a balm?

Let’s start with some definitions. The terms “ointment”, “balm”, and “salve” are often used interchangeably, but they each have specific compositions and uses.

An ointment (sometimes called an unguent) is a topical formula which is used to soothe irritated skin secondary to abrasions and rashes. They typically contain high levels of occlusive* ingredients such as lanolin and are semi-solid. Ointments can be used on both the face and body. They’ve achieved recent popularity with the rise of slugging, in which a heavy ointment is liberally applied to the face as the last step in the evening skincare routine.

A salve is similar to an ointment, but it may also contain herbal emollients* or essential oils. They are more solid at room temperature when compared to ointments. Salves are generally used as a remedy for a specific problem, such as dry skin on the elbows or heels, or severely chapped lips.

Finally, a balm is a solid or semi-solid moisturizing product that contains emollient oils and waxes. Similar to salves, balms are often used to soothe dry and dehydrated skin. Depending on the specific concentrations of the ingredients, the balms may melt or even spread when they come into contact with the skin.

second layer: types of balms

Part of the beauty of balms lies in not only their different types and indications, but also in the various ways in which they can be used. Depending upon the ingredients contained within a given balm, it may have varying consistencies and uses. Here are some of the most common types of balms available:

cleansing balms: cleansing balms have gained more visibility with the popularity of K beauty. These balms contain waxes and oils and tend to be solid at room temperature but will melt when applied to the skin. Cleansing balms may also have a more gel-like structure which turns to milk when water is applied to the skin. Cleansing balms are applied to dry skin and massaged in to melt and lift makeup and dirt prior to being rinsed away with warm water.
beard and hair balms: beard and hair balms tend to contain higher levels of wax to tame and smooth unruly hairs. Hair balms can also be used to texturize the hair and hydrate. Beard balms are applied by warming a pea-sized amount gently onto fingertips then massaging into a slightly damp beard. Comb into hair and use any remaining balm on the skin.
lip balms: lip balms were traditionally fully solid preparations with high levels of wax to provide an occlusive layer of protection. Now, they can also be found as butters or semi-solid oils which have high concentrations of emollient oils to hydrate and soothe while providing occlusion. Lip balms are applied liberally to chapped lips to soothe and moisturize the delicate skin of the lip.
face balms: face balms have higher levels of oils with a small amount of wax for stability. These can be used as a moisturizer, overnight masque, or for sot treatment of focal areas of dryness and irritation. Face balms are warmed in the hands prior to smoothing over the skin and massaging in. They are ideal for severely dry skin.
body balms: like face balms, body balms will have higher levels of oils, which may be heavier than those used on the face. Again, they can be used as moisturizers or for targeted concerns. Warm your hands and massage in or wipe off after 30 minutes.

third layer: how to use a balm

The best way to use a balm depends upon its consistency and how you plan to use it. For most uses, just scoop a small amount with clean, dry fingertips or a spatula, warm it in your hands, then apply and massage in until absorbed. We recommend using just a small amount to start, then adding more as needed. Be patient with heavier balms which may require more time to melt and be absorbed or fully lift off makeup.

Soften a balm by warming it gently, either by leaving it on a sunny window ledge for an hour, or by placing it on top of your refrigerator. Don't place it into the microwave or oven - the oils within the balm will burn.

fourth layer: how we do it

Created as a natural scar treatment especially for Dr. Naidu's patients who required a gentle yet effective ointment for their incisions following surgery, our rosehip replenishing balm boasts a mélange of mango butter and highly soothing botanical oils and herbal extracts including rosehip, sea buckthorn, Centella asiatica, and arnica. Renew, replenish, radiate; repeat.

It's a beauty balm for targeted renewal.

Beauty has a conscience: 5% of each sale is donated to a humanitarian charity.

All this and more at anokhaskincare.com

anokha

references:

https://www.skincare.com
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/ointment

definitions:

emollient: a substance that softens or soothes the skin

occlusive: an occlusive ingredient provides a protective seal over the skin which prevents the loss of hydration into the environment. occlusives also help to keep irritants from entering the skin.

faq’s:

what is a balm?

a balm is a solid or semi-solid moisturizing product that contains emollient oils and waxes. similar to salves, balms are often used to soothe dry and dehydrated skin.

what is an ointment?

an ointment is a topical formula which is used to soothe irritated skin secondary to abrasions and rashes. they typically contain high levels of occlusive ingredients and are semi-solid.

what is a salve?

a salve is similar to an ointment, but it may also contain herbal emollients or essential oils. they are more solid at room temperature when compared to ointments.