# e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [e.l.f. Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/e-l-f-skin)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/makeup-removers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for dry sensitive skin; a few pre-cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent makeup removal for your dry and sensitive skin, as cleansing oils like Cetyl Ethylhexanoate and Caprylic Capric Triglyceride effectively dissolve impurities while ceramides and hyaluronic acid provide essential hydration and barrier support.
- The inclusion of Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil and Glycerin offers emollient and humectant benefits, further nourishing your dry skin.
- The product is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramides, Peptides, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil

## What the research says

- Application of Body Lotion for 5 weeks on cosmetic dry skin improved barrier properties, increased levels of cholesterol, ceramides, and long-chain fatty acids, increased beneficial skin bacteria, and enhanced microbiome functional potential compared to baseline. ([Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users overwhelmingly find this cleansing balm highly effective at melting away even waterproof makeup, leaving skin feeling hydrated and soft. It is frequently noted as being gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, offering excellent value. A moderate number of users report temporary blurry vision if the product gets into the eyes, while a smaller number experience an oily residue or occasional breakouts.

- Liked: Effective makeup removal (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Temporary blurry vision (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Oily residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small quantity (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine. Start 3×/week daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. It prepares your face for a thorough double-cleansing routine.
- Gently press a small amount onto your skin using a soft cotton pad. Avoid rubbing to protect your sensitive and flaky skin.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to ensure better tolerance and comfort. This prevents any extra irritation for reactive skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your very first use to prevent irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm a great fit for dry sensitive skin?

This cleansing balm is a great fit because it effectively melts away makeup while nourishing your skin with ceramides and glycerin to keep it soft and comfortable. It is unlikely to cause irritation, making it gentle enough for sensitive skin types.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is a great fit because it uses gentle oils to melt away makeup while adding moisture with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. It also helps nourish and protect your skin barrier with ceramides, peptides, and sunflower seed oil.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

### What do Ceramides do for dry sensitive skin?

Ceramides help strengthen dry, sensitive skin by locking in moisture and repairing the outer barrier, which makes skin feel softer and less irritated. This type of care helps prevent dryness and keeps skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34921679/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39492723/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your regular cleanser, and in your weekly routine before cleansing. It melts away makeup while ceramides and hyaluronic acid help keep dry skin hydrated and calm.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/)

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this makeup remover with retinol in your evening routine, applying it as the first step before your cleanser to gently take off makeup without irritating dry skin. Using a barrier-supporting formula before treatment helps keep skin calm and reduces dryness. Skin barrier products make it easier for your skin to handle active ingredients like retinoids.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in the evening as the first step of your nighttime routine, or once a week as part of your weekly routine. It is a great fit for your dry sensitive skin because it gently dissolves makeup while keeping your skin calm and hydrated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as it cleans away makeup gently while nourishing the skin with soothing oils and hydrators. Reviewers rarely report breakouts, and the formula avoids harsh ingredients that typically trigger irritation.

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (geraniol, linalool, and parfum).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$80.43 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$30.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$27.05 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08TQTT8LK?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 2 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Polyethylene, Peg-10 Isostearate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide Np, Ceramide 6 Ii, Ceramide 1, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosphingosine, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Water, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Geraniol, Linalool, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin