From Wipes to Balms: These 11 Hard-Working Makeup Removers Won't Strip Your Skin (2024)

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Type: Liquid | Size: 4.2 fl. oz. or 6.7 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

This classic makeup remover does exactly what it says—it takes the day away. It effortlessly dissolves lipstick and eye makeup (including mascara), leaving nothing behind. The formula is also tug-free, non-irritating, and non-stinging, so sensitive skin and eyes are welcome. The only complaint we have is that it has an astringent scent, which some people find unpleasant. While the scent didn't bother us when we tested it, it's still worth noting because some people are more sensitive to fragranced skincare products.

Who It's For

If you have sensitive eyes or oily or acne-prone skin, this pick might work well for you. We think it's an excellent choice for people who are looking for a gentle, non-irritating makeup remover that won't make the eyes burn or the skin feel oily and slippery.

Type: Liquid | Size: 3.8 fl. oz. or 5.5 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

This drugstore eye makeup remover has been a go-to for most makeup lovers at some point or another—and for good reason. It's a reliable dual-action formula that activates when you shake it and it will gently whisk away eye makeup—even waterproof mascara—when you apply it with a soaked cotton pad. In fact, it works so well that when we tested this product, we found that it would remove your eye makeup in one swipe; when we went in for a second swipe, the cotton pad came back clean because all the makeup was already gone.

The formula is also oil-free, which means it is a better choice for people with lash extensions since oil can break down lash adhesive. Just keep in mind that it can leave a slight residue behind if you don't follow up with a cleanser and a splash of water.

Who It's For

This budget makeup remover is a good choice for anyone who wants to spend under $10 but still find an eye makeup remover that really works. It's strong enough to remove waterproof makeup, but gentle on your eyes and skin. Plus, it's ideal for people who wear false lashes or extensions.

Type: Micellar water | Size: 3.4 fl. oz., 13.5 fl. oz., or 23.7 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Gentle, budget-friendly, and non-greasy—this micellar water is a joy to use. According to Garshick, these formulations use micelles, which are small molecules that come together and gently lift makeup, oil, and dirt off the skin.

"Micellar waters tend to be effective options that break down makeup without significant rubbing, minimizing dryness and irritation," Garshick adds. This formula (which acts like a magnet for dirt, oil, and other pore-clogging debris) really shines for removing makeup from lips and face, but to remove eye makeup, simply hold a pad over closed eyes and gently wipe. Heads up: It can leave the skin feeling greasy if it's not rinsed off with water and a gentle cleanser.

Who It's For

This is a great pick for people who are on a tighter budget and are looking for a great first step in their makeup-removing routine. This product is sure to serve you well as a first cleanse (meaning it should be followed up with a regular cleanser) to remove waterproof makeup and when you don't have access to a sink.

Type: Micellar water | Size: 8.33 oz. or 16.7 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

This micellar water one of our personal favorites, and Ceme agrees. "This formula successfully removes makeup, lifts dirt from the skin, and tones the face," she explains. We can back her up, too. When we tried the formula firsthand, we were in awe at how it got everything off the surface of our skin. We had a little bit of trouble getting eyeliner from in between our lower eyelashes, but other than that, we were pleased with the results. Garshick recommends this option to those with sensitive skin, as the simple formula doesn't require as much massaging or rubbing as other options.

Who It's For

If you're looking for a makeup remover that's recommended by both a makeup artist and a dermatologist, you've come to the right place. This formula by Bioderma was suggested by both experts we spoke to for its hydrating, water-like consistency and ability to tackle (almost) all traces of makeup.

Type: Cleansing balm | Size: 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz., 6.8 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This makeup-melting cleansing balm stood out to us because it's a great choice for anyone who wears foundations, concealers, or waterproof mascara for long periods of time—like a 10+ hour work shift. It starts off as a solid balm, but once you work it onto your skin with your fingers, it turns into a luxuriously smooth oil that removes every last trace of makeup. And we can share that, from experience, it never irritates skin in the process. How exactly does this work? Well, according to Garshick, based on the principle that oil attracts oil, oil-based removers (like balms and, well, oils) help draw out excess oil and makeup from the skin without irritation. The biggest downside we found in our months of trying out this product: The oil-based formula can get stuck in your contact lenses and cause some fogginess for a few minutes. If you wear contacts, you might want to take them out before cleaning your face.

Who It's For

This is a popular choice for people looking for a gentle makeup-removing balm or someone looking for a product made with natural ingredients. Those with dry skin will enjoy its hydrating feel and the fact that it nourishes the skin while it removes waterproof and long-wearing cosmetics.

Type: Wipes | Size: 25 wipes | Cruelty-Free: No

Drenched in micellar water, these wipes lean on oil molecules to attract and lift away dirt, oil, and makeup without having to rub too hard. What's more, they also contain glycerin and CeraVe's signature three essential ceramides, which help support a strong skin barrier. Each wipe is also biodegradable, meaning you don't have to feel bad for choosing a wipe product because it's environmentally friendly.

However, wipes are not without their drawbacks, according to Ceme. While a makeup wipe like this one is a great way to start your face-cleaning ritual, you'll still want to follow up with a cleanser to truly clean your face. Plus, while makeup wipes are convenient, Garshick says that they can be harsh or irritating on the skin, especially if you have sensitive or super-dry skin. "It's important to avoid being too aggressive on the skin and to avoid rubbing too vigorously," she warns.

Who It's For

The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Remover Wipes are a good option for people looking for a convenient makeup remover that can be stowed and brought on the go.

Type: Cleansing oil | Size: 5 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This gentle cleansing oil feels like such a luxurious way to remove your makeup at the end of the day. It is nutrient-rich and packed with anti-aging and hydrating ingredients, like green tea, to leave your skin feeling clean, nourished, and makeup-free. According to Garshick, oils like this one remove makeup (she explained previously that oil attracts oil, effectively breaking down makeup in the process) and hydrate the skin all in one shot. It's worth noting that the pump can be a bit finicky and get stuck. Try being as gentle as possible when getting product out to avoid spilling oil everywhere.

Who It's For

This cleanser is a great choice for anyone with dry skin because it features soothing, skin-loving ingredients like green tea to leave skin clean, nourished, and makeup-free.

Type: Cream cleanser | Size: 4.9 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

By nature, it's rare that an ordinary cream cleanser can remove all of our makeup involved—but Fenty Skin’s Total Cleans'r is no ordinary cream cleanser. This two-in-one formula's creamy lather dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, making for fewer products and less hassle (i.e., rubbing the heck out of your skin). We also love the cute purple squeeze bottle—it's hygienic (no grubby fingers dipping in and out!) and easy to use.

It's important to note that the formula does contain fragrance, so if you're prone to reactions or trying to avoid fragranced cosmetics, you may want to skip this one.

Who It's For

This cleanser works well on all skin types, including sensitive skin, so it's great for pretty much everyone. Plus, it leaves the skin clean and refreshed (rather than dry or tight), lending itself well to any routine centered around hydration and skin repair.

Type: Gel | Size: 4 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

The skin around your eyes is very delicate. Choosing a gentle, tug-free formula is key to avoiding unnecessary stress that could affect skin elasticity (aka how your skin stretches and bounces back) and lead to other signs of premature aging. Admittedly, this product is quite the splurge, but we also think it's worth the price. The refreshing gel texture feels amazing when you apply it to your eyelids and lips, providing hydrating benefits that last long after you’ve wiped it off.

Who It's For

This innovative product is a great choice for someone who is willing to pay for a high-quality makeup remover. While the price is quite high, it delivers big time when it comes down to waterproof makeup. Plus, it has a hydrating, refreshing feel that we look forward to after a long night of makeup-wearing.

Type: Liquid | Size: 4.3 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This formula is gentle on your skin but tough on your makeup, easily washing away even the most stubborn waterproof mascara. It’s infused with aloe vera and green tea extract to nourish and soothe, while licorice extract boosts radiance for a calm, clear complexion. It’s also fragrance-free, making it a prime choice for those with sensitive skin, since many people have fragrance allergies or experience irritation triggered by fragrances.

Who It's For

People with sensitive skin looking for a gentle, non-irritating makeup remover will like this pick. Thanks to ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract, it leaves the skin hydrated and soothed (rather than oily or stripped).

Type: Oil-based wipes | Size: 50 wipes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Your stay-all-day mattes and liquid lipsticks are great until you actually want to take them off. That's why we like these 2-in-1 oil-based wipes: they make it easy. They're an oil-based lip makeup remover, designed to remove even the most stubborn long-wearing lip makeup, including matte lipstick, because it glides easily across your face so you don't have to tug at your skin. It's also a cruelty-free, vegan formula and it scores major points for forming a barrier that locks moisture in to keep your lips soft and supple. Like several other options on this list, the formula can leave a slimy residue behind, so try your best to wipe the skin clean afterward with water and a cloth or paper towel.

Who It's For

This product is great for people who wear lots of waterproof or matte lipsticks but also want a vegan, cruelty-free product. It's also great for anyone prone to dry, cracked lips.

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