The Importance Of Makeup Remover

Removing your makeup is a necessary step for your skin to breathe. If you think a cleanser does the same thing, then you are wrong. A cleanser removes the dirt and pollutants accumulated in the pores, while a makeup remover cleans the upper layer of skin on which makeup is applied. Using a makeup remover is important as it prevents clogging of the pores, giving you a healthy complexion. Makeup removers remove stubborn mascara, false eyelash glue, waterproof lipstick, and foundation. Listed below are the best makeup removers handpicked for you. Scroll down to upgrade your skin care routine!

15 Best Drugstore Makeup Removers

1. Best For Sensitive Skin: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Makeup Remover

Bioderma Sensible H20 Micellar Water Makeup Remover is the perfect solution for sensitive skin. It has a dermatologically advanced formula similar to the molecules naturally found in your skin to cleanse makeup, heavy metals, and fine particles. It features a DAF-patented natural complex and fatty acid ester micelles that increase your skin’s tolerance and cleanse without drying it out. In addition, it contains cucumber fruit extract that refreshes your skin while its soothing fragrance awakens the senses. It has a sensible H2O compound that respects your skin’s fragility and hydrolipidic film. Pour a little of this product on a cotton pad and wipe your face to get clear, healthy skin. Here’s a review video to help you get a better understanding of the product. Key Ingredients: Micellar water and Cucumber extract Pros

Ideal for sensitive skin Dermatologically approved Non-rinsing formula Non-drying Non-irritating Alcohol-free Oil-free Paraben-free

Cons None

2. Best Gentle Formula: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

The dermatologically-tested Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover has a gentle formula that does not require pulling or tugging to work. Its dual-phase formula helps remove stubborn waterproof eye makeup like liner, eyeshadow, and mascara effortlessly. The product contains aloe and cucumber extracts that soothe and nourish your skin with their antioxidant properties, giving you a refreshing feel. Its lightweight and non-sticky formula is ophthalmologist-tested and safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens-wearers. Need more information? Watch this video to make an informed decision about the product. Key Ingredients: Aloe vera and Cucumber Pros

Lightweight Oil-free Non-sticky Dermatologically tested Ophthalmologist-tested Suitable for sensitive skin Safe for contact lens-wearers

Cons

Feels greasy if not rinsed off with warm water

3. Best Antioxidant-Rich Formula: Cetaphil Gentle Oil-Free Makeup Remover

Cetaphil Gentle Oil-Free Makeup Remover is infused with a bi-phase formula to remove stubborn waterproof makeup from delicate areas. It is enriched with the antioxidant properties of aloe vera and green tea that moisturize your skin for a glowing and healthy complexion. It also contains ginseng that has bioactive compounds to boost blood circulation for firmer skin. Its gentle and non-comedogenic formula does not block skin pores and makes it ideal for sensitive skin. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s review. Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Ginseng, and Green tea Pros

Hypoallergenic Non-comedogenic Fragrance-free Non-greasy Dermatologically tested Ophthalmologist-tested Non-irritating

Cons None

4. Best Organic Makeup Remover: Burt’s Bees Micellar Facial Towelettes

The natural Burt’s Bees Micellar Facial Towelettes gives a fresh makeup-free look to all skin types. It is easy to use and wipes off makeup without leaving any residue. These wipes are made up of 60% repurposed cotton and rose extracts that hydrate and soothe your skin. The pack has a resealable closure to lock in moisture and keep them fresh. These are the best disposable makeup remover wipes that are perfect to carry for travel, work, or gym. Key Ingredients: Micellar water and Rose water Pros

Travel-friendly Dermatologically-tested Ophthalmologist-tested Fragrance-free Paraben-free Petrolatum-free Phthalate-free

Cons

Dries up quickly

5. Best For Oily Skin: Almay Makeup-Free Zone

The gentle Almay Makeup-Free Zone is enriched with ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, and cucumber to hydrate and nourish the skin deeply. Its botanical blend of natural ingredients wipes off waterproof makeup around the sensitive area of your eyes without tugging. The pack comes with 120 white pre-moistened towelettes that contain moisturizing ingredients. It is dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic to suit all skin types. Key Ingredients: Green Tea, Aloe vera, and Cucumber Pros

Dermatologically tested Ophthalmologic-tested Non-comedogenic Soothing Hypoallergenic Waterproof Oil-free Fragrance-free Cruelty-free

Cons

Contains alcohol

6. Best Dry Facial Wipes: Olay Daily Facials

The Olay Daily Facial Wipes are velvety soft cleansing dry clothes that get activated with water. These wipes are enriched with salicylic acid, grape seed extract, and glycerin for their replenishing, cleansing, and hydrating properties. It leaves your skin fresh and fragrant. These facial wipes are multipurpose and can be used for cleansing, removing makeup, toning, scrubbing, and as a cool mask! Key Ingredients: Grapeseed extract and Glycerin Pros

Soap-free Travel-friendly Versatile

Cons

Contains alcohol

7. Best For Skin Nourishment: Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes

The ophthalmologist-tested Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes cleanse dirt, oil, bacteria, and even the toughest mascara easily. These wipes are infused with the anti-inflammatory benefits of feverfew extracts to improve and nourish skin texture. It also contains glycerin, cucumber extract, and aloe vera to give you soft, hydrated, and healthy skin. These wipes are kind to your skin as they don’t contain harsh irritants that damage skin cells, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Key Ingredients: Feverfew extract Pros

Clinically tested Reduces inflammation Ideal for contact lens-wearers Oil-free Non-comedogenic Mild fragrance

Cons

Wipes dry quickly

8. Best For Skin Brightening: Garnier Skin Active Micellar Cleansing Water

Garnier Skin Active Micellar Cleansing Water removes makeup, cleanses dirt, brightens your skin, and gives a natural glow without leaving a greasy residue. It is enriched with vitamin C to brighten your skin tone. It also improves collagen production to tighten your skin and diminish fine lines. In addition, it cleanses and moisturizes your skin without being harsh, making it suitable for regular use. Key Ingredients: Micellar water and Vitamin C Pros

Non-drying Mild fragrance Alcohol-free Mineral oil-free Fragrance-free Vegan Cruelty-free

Cons

May cause itching

9. Best For Skin Softening: Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes

The dermatologically-tested Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes are pre-moistened sheets that nourish, purify, refresh, and soften your skin. It contains a blend of grape seed and olive oils to gently remove makeup, cleanse skin without clogging pores, and hydrate deeply without being greasy. It is free from parabens, phthalates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances, making it safe to use regularly on sensitive skin. Key Ingredients: Grapeseed extract and Olive oil Pros

Unclogs pores Moisturizes the skin Biodegradable Cruelty-free Silicone-free Phthalate-free Fragrance-free Paraben-free

Cons

May leave a residue

10. Best Calming Wipes: Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Wipes

Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Wipes goes gentle on the skin but very tough on makeup and impurities. It quickly removes the most stubborn waterproof makeup without drying out your skin. It is enriched with vitamins B3 and E combined with micellar water. It hydrates and brightens your skin instantly while restoring its lost moisture. It also smoothens your skin texture and calms irritation. These wipes are made from renewable plant fibers and wood pulp, making them soft and compostable in nature. In addition, it is free of harmful chemical that can irritate your skin. Key Ingredients: Micellar water, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin E Pros

Dermatologically tested Non-comedogenic Hypoallergenic Cruelty-free Alcohol-free Paraben-free Fragrance-free

Cons

May feel scratchy on the skin

11. La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra

If you have oily and acne-prone skin, you need a makeup remover that extracts oil and dirt from the pores. La Roche-Posay Micellar Water gently cleanses dirt, oil, makeup, and pollution particles from your skin. It is formulated with antioxidant-rich thermal spring water and glycerin that moisturize your skin without being greasy. In addition, it has zinc that purifies and refreshes your skin to remove excess oil and lubricating poloxamer for cleansing. It is also dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable for sensitive skin and eyes. Key Ingredients: Zinc, Glycerin, and Thermal water Pros

Suitable for acne-prone skin Non-greasy Non-comedogenic Paraben-free Alcohol-free Soap-free

Cons

Expensive

12. The Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

If you want to remove heavy eyeshadow or waterproof mascara, The Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Makeup Remover is a perfect choice. It is enriched with chamomile extracts with anti-inflammatory properties to soothe your skin and condition the delicate eye area. In addition, this remover is mild on the skin and has a water-based formula. Key Ingredient: Chamomile extract Pros

Oil-free Just a little product required per use Paraben-free Gluten-free Silicon-free Vegan

Cons

Leaves a soapy residue Contains SLS

13. L’Oréal Paris Eye Makeup Remover

L’Oréal Paris Eye Makeup Remover offers skin-friendly makeup removal without being sticky and greasy. The product is suitable for all skin types and sensitive areas like the area around the eyes. It is infused with water and glycerin to hydrate your skin. Apply this cleanser using a cotton pad and leave it on your skin for the makeup to come off without rubbing. Key Ingredient: Glycerin Pros

Oil-free Dermatologist-tested Ophthalmologist-tested Safe for contact lens-wearers

Cons

Does not remove waterproof mascara Contains SLS

14. Yes To Cucumbers Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Nothing can beat Yes To Cucumber Eye Makeup Remover Pads if you want to cleanse your eyes without chemicals. These pre-moistened pads are infused with natural ingredients like chamomile, cucumber, and aloe vera to soothe your skin while gently removing impurities and makeup build-up around the eyes. These wipes are kind to your skin as they do not contain harsh irritants. Each pack comes with 45 pads that stay fresh and moist for longer. Key Ingredients: Calendula, Chamomile, and Organic Cucumbers Pros

Ophthalmologist-tested Dermatologist tested 95% natural ingredients Hypoallergenic Safe for contact lens-wearers Lightweight Paraben-free SLS-free Silicone-free Cruelty-free

Cons

Might cause a burning sensation

15. Paula’s Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover

Paula’s Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover is a dual-phase solution that quickly removes waterproof and stubborn makeup like long-wearing foundation, lipstick, and lip stains without leaving a greasy residue. Its water-based formula is suitable for all skin types. It is enriched with antioxidants like aloe vera and green tea to soothe and hydrate your skin, while glycerin restores the moisture to give you an instantly clean and natural look. Key Ingredients: Aloe vera and Green Tea Pros

Soothing Non-irritating Removes waterproof makeup Paraben-free Fragrance-free Cruelty-free

Cons

Expensive Requires extra effort to remove mascara

Choosing the right kind of drugstore makeup remover that suits your skin type is easy if you evaluate certain factors before buying one. Learn what to look out for in a makeup remover in the next section.

How To Choose A Drugstore Makeup Remover According To Your Skin Type

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you need a makeup remover containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. This is because both the ingredients suck up the excess oil while removing your makeup. If you want to use micellar water, go for an oil-free one.

Dry Skin

The chemicals in a makeup remover break down the molecules of makeup along with the natural moisture of your skin. To avoid this, you need to use a cream- or foam-based cleanser as they restore the moisture. You can also opt for oil-based cleansers as their ingredients provide natural oil to the skin. Makeup removers containing coconut oil, olive oil, or some other oil are good for dry skin.

Sensitive Skin

Ingredients like artificial fragrance, alcohol, and parabens are harsh on sensitive skin. If your skin is prone to redness, go for soap-free and fragrance-free products. The more natural the ingredients, the better.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is a certified makeup technician and an image consultant. She knows the tips and tricks of makeup to accentuate your best features and has the knack for making you look and feel good. So when it comes to the best drugstore makeup removers, she has done a fair share of research to help you select from the best. These makeup removers not only help remove any traces of stubborn makeup but also help keep your skin well hydrated, soft, and supple. Are drugstore makeup removers good for your skin? Drugstore makeup removers are good for your skin as they contain safe ingredients that ophthalmologists and dermatologists have tested. They can remove all kinds of makeup without ripping away the natural moisture of the skin. What is the most effective drugstore eye makeup remover? The most effective drugstore eye makeup remover is La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water & Makeup Remover. It can remove the toughest eye makeup and stubborn glued eyelashes within seconds. It is free from parabens or alcohol and contains thermal spring water, glycerin, and zinc that can pull away invisible debris. What can I use instead of drugstore makeup wipes? You can use micellar water or a cream cleanser instead of drugstore makeup wipes. Why are drugstore makeup wipes bad? Make-up wipes contain harsh and harmful chemicals that disturb the pH balance of the skin. They disturb the skin’s acid mantle, which works as a protective layer to keep dirt and impurities away and locks in natural oils. Can you use baby wipes to remove makeup? Baby wipes don’t remove makeup as they cannot break down complicated waxes or oils present in makeup. If you use baby wipes, you risk leaving a lot of makeup and debris on your skin. Is micellar water good for acne? Dermatologists recommend micellar water for acne-prone skin. Micellar water contains specific ingredients that remove oil, makeup, and debris from your skin without causing breakouts.

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