This Cleansing Balm Smells Like Summer Vacation in a Jar
I might be in the minority here, but there’s something seriously satisfying about coming home, tying my hair up, and melting my makeup off like I’m shedding the stress of the day right along with my concealer. Call me dramatic, but that moment is sacred. And for years now, the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm has been my go-to for turning my nightly face-wash routine into a full-on spa fantasy. So when I found out that the brand was launching a new scent—Green Fig!—and that it would be coming to May’s Glam Bag? I audibly gasped. Then considered doing another full beat just so I could wash it off again.
Before I get into the nitty-gritty (or should I say creamy-melty?) of how this balm performed, let me just say: If you're someone who lives for a little skincare ritual or loves a sensorial moment as much as a makeup-free one, you're going to want to keep reading.
About the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm
A fresh twist on the cult-favorite makeup melting cleansing balm, now in a Green Fig scent.
Inspired by a Mediterranean summer evening (yes, please!)—this one smells like fig, raspberry, and bergamot took a vacation to paradise.
Clinically proven to remove long-wear and waterproof makeup.
Loaded with three luxe plant oils for that soft, hydrated, lit-from-within glow.
Elderberry oil: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants to boost your glow.
Optimega™ oil: A wheatgerm and oat oil blend that helps lock in hydration and keep skin silky-smooth.
Starflower oil: Bee-friendly and Omega 6-rich to support your skin barrier.
Also infused with Padina Pavonica: a superhero brown algae that deeply hydrates and protects.
Free from mineral oil—no drama here, just clean vibes.
What I Love About It
Let’s start with the obvious: It works. Like, really works. No scrubbing, no tight skin, no mascara leftovers haunting me the next morning. Even my most waterproof eyeliner doesn’t stand a chance.
Then there’s the texture. This balm goes through a full-blown metamorphosis, and I’m here for every phase:
Balm: It starts thick and buttery—perfect for scooping.
Oil: Once massaged over your warm skin, it melts like a dream.
Milk: Add a splash of water and boom—it turns into a milky emulsion that rinses clean, no residue whatsoever.
Honestly, I love a good double cleanse moment, but with this balm, I don’t need a second step. It’s like a full cleansing routine in a single jar.
And the scent? It's honestly so good, I kind of want to wear it as perfume. It smells fresh and green, like a fig tree in the summer—just the right balance of fruity and earthy. Imagine slicing into a perfectly ripe fig while lounging at a garden cafe table surrounded by berry bushes and citrus trees. It’s soft, not too sweet, and gives total spa-in-the-Mediterranean energy. Not overpowering at all—just one of those scents that makes washing your face feel like a treat, not a chore.
How to Use the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm
Pro tip: Don’t stir the balm—just use your nail or a skincare tool (I like to use the end of a makeup brush handle) to scoop out an almond-sized amount. Trust me, it’s more than enough. Warm it up in your fingers, then gently massage it over your face, neck, and even décolletage (if you’ve taken your makeup down your chest) in smell, circular motions.
As it melts into an oil, you’ll literally see your makeup vanish. Wet your fingertips and keep massaging—the oil transforms into a silky milk. From there, rinse it off with water or go in with a warm, damp cloth if you’re feeling fancy or want a little side of exfoliation.
You’ll be left with baby-soft skin and zero leftover makeup. It’s a skincare magic trick.
What to Consider Before Trying It
Honestly, I have very few notes. This cleansing balm is that good. But in the spirit of full transparency (and because I’m the type of person who reads the one-star reviews before buying anything), here are just a couple of things I’d keep in mind.
First, this balm is rich. Like, luxurious-spa-treatment-in-a-jar rich. That’s part of the magic, but if you’re someone who prefers a gel or foam cleanser—or you’re not used to oil-based balms—it might take a little getting used to. I’d recommend starting with a small amount (a little truly goes a long way) and giving your skin time to adjust if you’re newer to this type of cleanser.
Second, while the Green Fig scent is dreamy (think: warm Mediterranean air meets a lush fig tree at golden hour), it is a fragrance. It’s not overpowering and hasn’t irritated my sensitive skin at all, but if you’re super reactive to scents, it’s something to consider.
And finally, while some Ipsters will get to try a generous deluxe sample in May’s Glam Bag, the full-size version is exclusively sold at Sephora. So if (read: when!) you’re restocking after falling in love or you’re experiencing major cleansing balm FOMO and want to see what the hype is about, you know exactly where to find it. Shop the full-size exclusively at Sephora!
Final Thoughts on the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm
In case it’s not obvious by now: I’m obsessed. This balm checks every box—luxurious, effective, and an absolute delight to use. Whether you’re a die-hard cleansing balm fan or new to the category, the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm is worth a spot on your top shelf.