The Best Makeup Remover for 2023: Find the Perfect Product for Your Skin Type

The Best Makeup Remover for 2023: Find the Perfect Product for Your Skin Type

Find the perfect makeup remover that fits your skin type and gets rid of stubborn makeup. Learn which ingredients to look for in order to nourish and hydrate your skin without irritation or inflammation.

Jessica Sullivan

Top Makeup Removers for Different Skin Types

The first step to healthy skin is finding the right makeup remover to tackle stubborn makeup, waterproof mascara, and the day's grime without causing irritation or inflammation. Whether you prefer hydrating balms, oil cleansers, or micellar water, the best makeup removers should contain skin-friendly ingredients like sunflower oil, extra virgin olive or coconut oil alone, and clary sage to help remove excess oil without stripping your skin’s natural oils.

These ingredients are gentle on the skin and help with aging skin and keep it hydrated and nourished.

Sensitive Skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, gentleness is key. Celebrity makeup artists often recommend micellar waters and fragrance-free makeup removers for sensitive skin types for their ability to gently remove makeup without irritating it. One stellar example is Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, known for its gentle formula that soothes sensitive skin while effectively removing makeup.

On top of that, Honest Beauty’s Makeup Remover Facial Wipes are a great pick for sensitive skin. These plant-based face wipes are hypoallergenic, EWG-verified, and dermatologist-approved. They have a non-drying formula that uses a sugar-derived surfactant to remove dirt and oil without causing any irritation.

Oily Skin

Balancing your skin’s oil production can be a delicate dance for those with oily skin. Enter cleansing oils: these makeup removers can effectively dissolve makeup, including stubborn and even waterproof mascara kinds, without leaving your skin feeling greasy. Contrary to popular belief, cleansing oils can be a godsend for oily skin, as they can help to:

  • Balance the skin’s natural oil production
  • Remove excess oil and impurities
  • Prevent clogged pores and breakouts
  • Hydrate and nourish the skin

By incorporating a cleansing oil into your skincare routine, you can achieve a clean, balanced complexion without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

However, it’s important to note that while a cleansing balm can be a boon for dry and sensitive skin, those with oily or acne-prone skin should steer clear of them. The thick, oil-based formulas of cleansing balms might be too heavy and could lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

Dry Skin

Dry skin craves hydration and nourishment, so the best makeup removers for this skin type are cleansing balms and sticks. These eye makeup removers deep clean your pores without drying out your skin. Not only do they help remove makeup, but they also leave your skin feeling hydrated and nourished.

An oil-based makeup remover can also benefit dry and sensitive skin as it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. So, if you’ve been struggling with dry skin, it’s time to give oil-based makeup removers a try. They cleanse, support, and guard your skin, leaving it fresh and moisturized.

Acne-Prone Skin

Choosing the right makeup remover for acne-prone skin can be a game-changer. A gentle micellar cleansing water can remove makeup without causing breakouts or irritation. Paula’s Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover is also worth mentioning, a top ten best makeup remover for removing a product specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.

But remember, skincare doesn’t stop at makeup removal. Following up with a suitable skincare product, such as a non-comedogenic moisturizer or sunscreen during the day, is just as important. It’s all about maintaining a balanced routine that keeps your skin healthy while preventing breakouts.

Our Top Picks for Makeup Removers

Clinique Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm

Clinique Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm

Best for Removing Heavy and Long-Wearing Makeup, Including Waterproof Products.

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Why We Love It

Plenty of products out there promise to cleanse your face, but few manage to do it as well as Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm.

We love this product for a few key reasons: first and foremost, it works! Even the most stubborn makeup and dirt easily wash away after using this balm. And thanks to its gentle formula doesn't leave your skin feeling dry or tight, but it feels soft and clean. A little goes a long way, so you get plenty of bang for your buck.

If you're looking for a reliable and effective way to cleanse your skin, Clinique's TTake The Day Off Cleansing Balm is definitely worth a try!

What You Should Know

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is the perfect solution to remove long-wearing makeup! This lightweight makeup remover quickly dissolves even the most tenacious makeup, sunscreens, and pollutants. It transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil upon application to thoroughly cleanse your skin without any residue.

Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is formulated with safflower seed oil that helps break up natural oils and hard-to-remove makeup, as well as its rich in linoleic acid, which leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished. Free of synthetic colors, gluten-free, free of drying alcohol, non-comedogenic, non-greasy, non-drying, fragrance-free, and allergy tested - this product is suitable for all skin types!

Use before cleansing balm and other treatment products by massaging balm over dry skin with dry fingertips before rinsing off with warm water - follow with cleanser, eye cream, serum, and moisturizer.

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Best for Effectively and Quickly Removing Stubborn Eye Makeup, Even Waterproof Mascara.

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Why We Love It

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover's bi-phase formula effortlessly removes waterproof makeup without leaving an oily residue.

One of the things we love about this product is how gentle it is on the delicate skin around the eyes. We're also big fans that it doesn't require rubbing or tugging - just a quick swipe and your makeup is gone! Plus, with its sleek packaging and easy-to-use pump dispenser, this eye makeup remover is as stylish as it is effective.

It's no wonder that Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover has become a cult favorite among beauty enthusiasts.

What You Should Know

This #1 makeup remover in the US* is perfect for removing even the most stubborn waterproof or long-wear makeup without irritation or leaving skin barrier with any greasy residue. This bi-phase formula works by shaking it to activate essential oils for its simple but efficacious properties; the oil phase helps break up natural oils found on the skin and dissolve hard-to-remove makeup, while the water phase removes makeup and rinses away cleanly.

Featuring key ingredients like safflower seed and coconut oil rich in linoleic acid that leaves skin feeling soft and nourished, this eye makeup remover is allergy tested, non-comedogenic, non-greasy, non-drying, and fragrance-free.

To use, massage it over dry skin before cleansing and follow with eye cream, serum, and moisturizer after rinsing off with warm water. Free of synthetic colors, gluten-free, and drying alcohols, this essential double-action eye make remover will become a staple item in any professional make-up kit!

Neutrogena Gentle OilFree Eye Makeup Remover Cleanser

Neutrogena Gentle OilFree Eye Makeup Remover Cleanser

Best for Sensitive Eyes and Contact Lens Wearers

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Why We Love It

This product is a game-changer! Not only does it remove your makeup, removing even the toughest waterproof mascara, but it also does so gently, without any stinging or irritation to the delicate skin around your eyes. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling soft and refreshed.

With this makeup remover, you'll never have to worry about your best makeup artist going to bed with raccoon eyes again! This product will make your nightly routine a breeze.

What You Need To Know

Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Cleanser is the perfect solution for sensitive eyes. It’s a dual-phase, 100% oil-free liquid eye makeup remover and the best eye makeup remover cleanser containing aloe and cucumber extracts. It works gently without the harsh tugging, pulling, or stinging of the sensitive eye area and is ophthalmologist tested for use by contact lens wearers. It’s designed to soothe your skin while removing all traces of makeup so you can start fresh every day.

Unlike other products that need vigorous rubbing to remove makeup, Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Cleanser gently removes your makeup with just a few wipes using just water and its two phases of oil-free liquid: an emollient phase to dissolve eye makeup and a water phase to remove it, leaving you feeling refreshed and clean. Developed by Dermatologists, this gentle yet effective formula will take waterproof makeup and leave your face looking its best while preserving the delicate skin around your eyes.

Isdin Essential Cleansing Oil

Isdin Essential Cleansing Oil

Best for Effectively Dissolving Makeup, Sunscreen, and Foundation 

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Why We Love It

There are so many things to love about this product! For starters, it's incredibly gentle on the skin. The oil is silky, lightweight, and doesn't leave any greasy residue. Plus, it's super effective at removing even the toughest waterproof makeup. But what sets Isdin Essential Cleansing Oil apart is its nourishing ingredients. It's packed with natural oils like sunflower seed and jojoba, which help leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated. I can't recommend this product enough!

What You Need To Know

Isdin Essential Cleansing Oil is a gentle yet powerful cleansing oil with an oil-to-milk texture, perfect for all skin types. It uses a blend of Mediterranean extra virgin olive oil, sunflower oil, and clary sage to melt away stubborn makeup, sunscreen, and unwanted oils.

The non-comedogenic formula is made of 85% ingredients of natural origin, so you know you're getting the best quality product. Since it hydrates the skin while removing makeup and protecting your skin barrier's moisture balance, Isdin Essential Cleansing Oil even helps illuminate your complexion.

To use it, apply 2 or 3 pumps onto dry hands and massage it into your face in circular movements. To remove makeup from eyelids and eyelashes, rub them gently from top to bottom with your fingertips, keeping your eyes closed. Then moisten the skin with lukewarm water and massage the oil until it emulsifies before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

With these simple steps, you'll get that deep cleanse suitable for men and women without harshness!

Velour Lashes Lash Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover

Velour Lashes Lash Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover

Best for Lash Extensions

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Why We Love It

Beauty enthusiasts belove this innovative product for a few key reasons. It's incredibly gentle on your eyes and won't leave any stinging or burning sensations behind. Instead, your skin will feel refreshed and nourished after use.

Moreover, this powerful makeup remover wipes and is free of oil, making it the perfect choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. And, of course, we can't forget to mention its ability to tackle even the most stubborn waterproof makeup. Say goodbye to raccoon eyes and hello to a flawless complexion with Velour Lashes Lash Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover.

What You Should Know

This specially formulated vegan product is expertly designed for all kinds of false lashes and lash extensions, as it gently removes dirt and makeup while ensuring that the lash band retains its shape and longevity. Plus, it is free from paraben, fragrance, and animal byproducts.

This oil-free cleaner comes with naturally derived emollients that effectively remove dirt, makeup, and other residue in just a few swipes. It is also non-irritating, with moisturizing ingredients included to hydrate skin for a soft finish.

Velour Lashes Lash Clean is 100% recyclable for an eco-friendly option you can feel good about. Whether you are looking for gentle yet effective makeup remover wipes specifically designed for false lashes or something to help extend the life of your lash extensions between appointments, Velour Lashes Lash Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover checks all the boxes.

Fenty Skin Melt Awf Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser

Fenty Skin Melt Awf Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser

Best Multitasking Makeup Removal and Cleansing, Leaving the Skin Feeling Refreshed.

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Why We Love It

Fenty Skin Melt Awf Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser is a game-changer for a few key reasons. First, it effectively dissolves any makeup, dirt, or oil on your face without leaving any residue. Secondly, the jelly texture feels so luxurious and refreshing on your skin - like a mini spa treatment in a bottle. And finally, this cleanser even includes ingredients like green tea and figs to give your skin an added boost of nourishment and hydration. Your skin will thank you for adding this product to your skincare routine.

What You Should Know

Fenty Skin Melt Away Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser is the ultimate makeup wipe-off melter! The mess-free pump removes any makeup, even waterproof and long-wear, without drama. Its unique jelly texture transforms into a lightweight oil for quick and easy removal - no residue left behind! Plus, it's gentle enough for use on the eyes, lips, and face. It also hydrates, nourishes, and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth - not stripped or dry.

Fenty Skin Melt Away Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser comes in a 3.3 fl. oz bottle and is suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. Crafted with a custom blend of 9 luxurious oils, this cleanser will make removing your makeup a breeze.

Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes

Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes

Best for On-The-Go and Quick Makeup Removal

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Why We Love It

Let's discuss our love for Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes! First off, who doesn't love a product that does double duty? These facial wipes will not only remove even the toughest makeup, but they also cleanse your skin. Plus, they're fragrance-free - a huge bonus for sensitive skin users. Speaking of sensitive skin, these facial wipes are a lifesaver for anyone who struggles with irritation or redness. They're gentle enough to use every day yet powerful enough to clean off all the day's grime.

And finally, can we talk about the convenience factor? These little wipes are perfect for on-the-go makeup removal or a quick refresh. We are hooked on Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for an easy and effective way to clean their face!

What You Need To Know

Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes are the perfect solution for everyday cleansing and makeup removal. These towelettes work to dissolve all traces of dirt, oil, and makeup on the skin while being gentle on the eyes and skin barrier and safe enough for contact lens wearers.

The alcohol-free formula cleanses while also being gentle on the face and are ophthalmologist-, dermatologist-, and allergy-tested.

Neutrogena has teamed up with VEOCEL, the experts in sustainable fiber technology, to help create wipes made with VEOCEL fibers that are 100% plant-based and home-compostable in just 35 days.

Get cleaner skin with a cleaner conscience when using Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes - specially formulated to remove stubborn waterproof mascara.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types

Best for All Skin Types, With No Need for Rinsing.

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Why We Love It

There are so many things to love about this product. First and foremost, it's perfect for all skin types. Whether you have oily, dry, or sensitive skin, this micellar water is gentle enough to use daily. We also love how it effortlessly removes makeup and impurities with just a few swipes of a cotton pad. Plus, it doesn't leave any residue or stickiness on your skin. And did we mention it's affordable too? This is a must-have item in any skincare routine. Trust us; your skin will thank you.

What You Need To Know

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types is an all-in-one cleanser designed to hydrate and refresh your skin. This gentle micellar cleansing water is a facial cleanser and makeup remover to help you easily remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities from your face with no harsh scrubbing needed. It can easily remove face and eye makeup in one simple step!

The paraben-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and silicone-free formula is suitable for all skin types, allowing you to maintain a healthy glow. In addition, this micellar water helps smooth and refresh skin while giving it a much-needed boost of hydration. Try out Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types today – you won’t regret it!

Makeup Removal and Skincare: The Importance of a Balanced Routine

An effective makeup removal routine is more than just a step in your skincare regimen - it’s the foundation of healthy skin. Regularly removing makeup helps avoid breakouts, maintains a radiant complexion, and allows your skin to regenerate during your beauty sleep. Keeping a consistent routine, which includes washing your face to rid it of makeup, dirt, and other residues, and moisturizing to keep your skin hydrated, is key to achieving glowing, healthy skin.

So, whether you’re a fan of full glam makeup or prefer a more natural look, taking off your makeup at the end of the day is a must. It’s a simple step that can impact your skin’s health and appearance.

Remember, skincare doesn’t stop at makeup removal. It’s all about maintaining a balanced routine that includes cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturizing.

Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes

Why We Love It

Let's discuss our love for Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes! First off, who doesn't love a product that does double duty? These wipes not only remove even the toughest makeup, but they also cleanse your skin. Plus, they're fragrance-free - a huge bonus for sensitive skin users. Speaking of sensitive skin, these wipes are a lifesaver for anyone who struggles with irritation or redness. They're gentle enough to use every day yet powerful enough to clean off all the day's grime.

And finally, can we talk about the convenience factor? These little wipes are perfect for on-the-go makeup removal or a quick refresh. We are hooked on Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for an easy and effective way to clean their face!

What You Need To Know

Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes are the perfect solution for everyday cleansing and makeup removal. These towelettes work to dissolve all traces of dirt, oil, and makeup on the skin while being gentle on the eyes and safe enough for contact lens wearers.

The alcohol-free formula cleanses while also being gentle on the face and are ophthalmologist-, dermatologist-, and allergy-tested.

Neutrogena has teamed up with VEOCEL, the experts in sustainable fiber technology, to help create wipes made with VEOCEL fibers that are 100% plant-based and home-compostable in just 35 days.

Get cleaner skin with a cleaner conscience when using Neutrogena Cleansing Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Face Wipes - specially formulated to remove stubborn waterproof mascara.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types

Why We Love It

There are so many things to love about this product. First and foremost, it's perfect for all skin types. Whether you have oily, dry, or sensitive skin, this micellar water is gentle enough to use daily. We also love how it effortlessly removes makeup and impurities with just a few swipes of a cotton pad. Plus, it doesn't leave any residue or stickiness on your skin. And did we mention it's affordable too? This is a must-have item in any skincare routine. Trust us; your skin will thank you.

What You Need To Know

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types is an all-in-one cleanser designed to hydrate and refresh your skin. This gentle micellar cleansing water is a facial cleanser and makeup remover to help you easily remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities from your face with no harsh scrubbing needed. It can easily remove face and eye makeup in one simple step!

The paraben-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and silicone-free formula is suitable for all skin types, allowing you to maintain a healthy glow. In addition, this micellar water helps smooth and refresh skin while giving it a much-needed boost of hydration. Try out Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types today – you won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What product is best for removing makeup?

Makeup wipes are the best choice for makeup removal, as they can quickly and easily remove all types of makeup from all skin types.

They are also convenient and easy to use, making them a great choice for busy people who don’t have time to spend on a lengthy makeup removal routine.

Makeup wipes are also affordable and can be found online.

What do dermatologists recommend for removing makeup?

Dermatologists recommend using a cotton pad soaked in micellar water or an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup without damaging your skin - and avoid using washcloths, as they are abrasive.

The right cleanser is important for keeping your skin healthy and avoiding irritation. Make sure to choose a product that is suitable for your skin type, and won’t strip away its natural oils.

Which makeup remover is best for sensitive skin?

Micellar waters and fragrance-free makeup removers are the best for sensitive skin.

Which makeup remover is best for sensitive skin?

Micellar waters and fragrance-free makeup removers are the best for sensitive skin.


How can I remove stubborn makeup effectively?

Be gentle and take your time, and you can easily remove stubborn makeup with a cleansing lip balm soap and water, a makeup-removing cleanser, or micellar water.

What are some sustainable and eco-friendly makeup removal options?

Natural oils, micellar water, and reusable makeup remover wipes and pads are all great, sustainable, and eco-friendly options for removing your makeup.

What You Should Know About Makeup Removers

We’ve journeyed through the world of the best makeup removers here, explored different types suited for various skin types, delved into expert advice on removing stubborn makeup, and even touched on sustainable and eco-friendly makeup artists and options. Remember, the key to maintaining healthy, glowing skin lies in a consistent routine that starts with the right makeup remover. So go ahead, find your perfect makeup artist and match, and embark on your journey towards healthier, happier skin!