Honey Milk Cleansing Balm
A solid balm that melts on contact, where coconut oil dissolves makeup, shea butter keeps it from feeling thin, and honey stops the whole thing stripping your face.
You will need
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp powdered milk
The ritual
- Melt the coconut oil and shea butter together in a bowl over warm water.
- Take the bowl off the heat and let it cool until it starts to thicken.
- Whisk in the honey and powdered milk until completely smooth, with no gritty specks.
- Spoon into a small clean jar and leave to set at room temperature.
- Massage a fingertip's worth over dry skin, then wipe away with a warm damp cloth.
Why these ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- The solvent. Oil dissolves oil, so it lifts foundation, sunscreen and sebum far more easily than any water based cleanser manages.
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- Gives the balm body and a slower, richer slip, so you can massage for a full minute without it running off your jaw.
- 1 tsp honey
- Holds a little water in the mix and leaves skin feeling supple rather than squeaky once the balm has been wiped away.
- 1 tsp powdered milk
- Adds a soft, creamy drag and helps the balm turn slightly milky when you bring in a damp cloth to remove it.
Easy swaps
- 2 tbsp coconut oil → sunflower or grapeseed oil plus a teaspoon of beeswax, if coconut congests you.
- 1 tbsp shea butter → cocoa butter or mango butter, both firmer, so use slightly less.
- 1 tsp honey → vegetable glycerin for a vegan version with the same softening effect.
- 1 tsp powdered milk → finely sieved oat flour, or leave it out for a plainer balm.
Keep it clean
Mix with freshly washed hands and clean, dry bowls and spoons. If a recipe is stored, use a jar or bottle washed in hot soapy water and dried completely, and never dip wet fingers into the batch.
Storage & when to let go
Keeps about a month in a sealed jar kept away from the shower spray. Milk powder means any water that gets in will spoil it, so always use a dry spoon.
What to expect — honestly
It takes a full face of makeup off in one pass and leaves skin soft instead of tight. Stubborn mascara needs a slow, patient minute with your eyes closed. It is a cleanser and nothing more, so it will not clear congestion or change your skin over time.
Common questions
Will it leave a film on my face?
A little, which is rather the point on dry skin. If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, follow with a gentle foaming wash and you are done.
Why has it gone liquid in summer?
Coconut oil melts at around 24 degrees. Add a teaspoon of grated beeswax to the melt, or keep the jar in the fridge, and it will hold shape.
This recipe is shared for general cosmetic enjoyment, not medical advice — see how we research and write in our editorial policy and the full safety guide.
