BANILA CO Clean It Zero Battle: Oily vs. Dry vs. Sensitive Skin!

Cleansing balms are key in modern skincare, mixing good cleaning with a pleasing feel. BANILA CO’s Clean It Zero line stands out for dissolving makeup and meeting diverse skin needs. The series includes the original BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original and three specialized variants—Pore Clarifying, Purifying, and Nourishing—targeting oily, combination, and dry skin. But how do they really perform? After weeks of testing, here’s my honest review.

BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original

What it is:
The cult-favorite that started it all. Designed for all skin types, the Original formula blends vitamin-rich extracts and natural botanical oils to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while maintaining skin’s hydration. Its signature sherbet-like texture transforms into a silky oil upon application, effortlessly breaking down even waterproof mascara without harsh rubbing. Enriched with papain enzyme and hyaluronic acid, it gently buffs away dullness while locking in moisture. Though lightweight, it rinses off cleanly, leaving a balanced, fresh finish—no residue or tightness.

My experience:
A reliable workhorse year-round. The Original version was my gateway to the Clean It Zero line, and it remains a steadfast pick for days when my skin feels unpredictable. It handled my stubborn waterproof eyeliner with minimal effort, and the subtle fruity scent made the process feel indulgent. On days when I layered heavy sunscreen and powder, it required a bit more massaging to dissolve everything fully, but post-cleanse, my skin never felt stripped. While it doesn’t target specific concerns like the other variants, its versatility makes it a safe bet for travel or when my skin craves simplicity.

BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing
What it is:
Dry skin warriors, rejoice! Enriched with shea butter, macadamia oil, and ceramides, this balm cleanses while reinforcing the skin barrier. Its rich, buttery texture melts like a luxurious cream, dissolving even long-wear foundation without tugging. Post-rinse, skin feels hydrated and plump—no tightness or redness. However, oily skin types may find it too emollient, potentially leaving a slight film if not followed by a second cleanse.

My experience:
During winter, this balm saved my flaky skin. It melted away matte lipstick effortlessly, and the post-cleansing glow rivaled a hydrating mask. That said, I reserved it for dry months—it felt too heavy for my combo skin in humidity.

BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Pore Clarifying

What it is:
Formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, this balm combines papaya extract and salicylic acid to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. The addition of tea tree oil provides antibacterial benefits, targeting stubborn blackheads and sebum buildup. Its lightweight texture melts into a silky oil that rinses clean without stripping moisture. However, those with sensitive skin might find the tingling sensation from active ingredients slightly intense during initial use.

My experience:
As someone with combination skin, this balm became my summer staple. It tackled my T-zone oiliness without over-drying cheeks, and over time, my blackheads softened noticeably. The faint herbal scent felt refreshing, though I avoided using it on active breakouts to prevent irritation.

BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Purifying

What it is:
A universal favorite, the Purifying variant features neem leaf extract and white clay to detoxify pores while maintaining skin’s pH balance. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula effortlessly removes sunscreen and light makeup, leaving skin soft and calm. The balm transforms into a milky emulsion that rinses off completely—ideal for daily use. While it struggles with heavy glitter or waterproof makeup, its gentle nature makes it perfect for sensitive or reactive skin.

My experience:
This is my go-to for lazy evenings. It removed my light BB cream and sunscreen in one swipe, and the non-greasy finish meant I could skip a second cleanse on tired days. However, doubling the amount was necessary for heavy eyeliner.

Final Thoughts
The Clean It Zero trio proves that one-size-fits-all doesn’t apply to skincare. Pore Clarifying shines for oily/combo concerns, Purifying offers fuss-free daily cleansing, Nourishing wraps dry skin in comfort, and the Original remains the timeless hero for balanced, no-fuss efficacy. Whichever you choose, these balms redefine makeup removal as a ritual—not a chore.