We get it. Washing your face is one of the last things you feel like doing at the end of a long day, but you really should. Sleeping with makeup on can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, age spots and even premature aging. The right makeup remover, whether you choose a cleansing balm or makeup wipe, can help prevent all of the above.
“If makeup is not washed off at night, offending agents like dust and pollution stay in the skin, and have ample time to create damaging free radicals,” explains dermatologist Dr. Kristina Goldenberg. Thus, thoroughly removing makeup gives your pores the chance to breathe, which, in turn, allows for proper overnight skin renewal.
To help your complexion stay healthy and balanced, we turned to dermatologists and our editors to narrow down the best makeup removers for all skin types on the market.
How to properly remove makeup
The first step of makeup removal is the most important, and begins with a makeup remover that's suited for your skin type and lifestyle. A makeup remover should be thorough, yet gentle, to help "dissolve topical products and debris without aggressive rubbing," explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth.
Follow your makeup remover with a mild cleanser to fully wash the remaining build-up on the skin, a step also known as double-cleansing. "This 'double cleanse' approach is supported by dermatologic principles because it ensures removal of both oil-based and water-based impurities, which helps prevent clogged pores, breakouts and irritation," Ruth adds.
"I also remind patients to be especially gentle around the eye area, where the skin is more delicate," emphasizes Dr. Mona Foad, a board-certified dermatologist. "Taking that extra time in the evening really helps support the skin’s overall health, and can make a noticeable difference over time."
Types of makeup removers
There are several types of makeup removers to effectively cleanse and remove makeup, including those for your skin type. The most common makeup removers, per our experts, include:
- Micellar water: Typically used for lighter makeup, including eye makeup, micellar water is made up of 'micelles' that gently lift makeup and grime. "Personally, I prefer micellar water, followed by a gentle cleanser, for everyday use because it’s effective, low-irritating and easy to incorporate into a consistent routine," suggests Ruth.
- Cleansing balms and oils: Often the most moisturizing, gentle and effective option for makeup removal, especially for heavier makeup, due to their oil-based formulas. "If you do not have acne-prone skin, [cleansing balms] as that first step can make removal more efficient, while still protecting the skin barrier," explains Ruth. Cleansing oils, on the other hand, are lightweight, liquid formulas that are best suited for oily/acne-prone skin types.
- Makeup wipes: Pre-moistened wipes for quick or travel-friendly removal. However, our experts advised against using them unless necessary, as most formulas can be harsh on the skin.
- Bi-phase removers: Also known as dual-phase liquids, these formulas include a water and oil solution that works best against waterproof makeup. You'll find these in popular eye makeup removers, for example.
However, "The best choice [of makeup remover] depends on skin type, sensitivity and how much makeup is being worn on a daily basis," explains Dr. Alexandra Bowles, a board-certified dermatologist.
Best makeup removers, according to experts and editors
Best overall makeup remover wipes:
Although our experts prefer other types of makeup removers over wipes, they're often the most convenient. For instance, travel and late nights might require a quick solution for makeup removal, which, in those instances, Ruth recommends the Simple Kind to Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes as an option.
"They’re fragrance-free and formulated with minimal irritants, making them a good choice for sensitive or reactive skin types," she reveals. "Though, I still consider wipes more of a first step rather than a complete cleanse."
Best for sensitive eyes:
A great oil-free option is this one from Neutrogena. Celebrity makeup artist Jeannia Robinette says she likes this lightweight formula because it doesn’t irritate the gentle skin around the eyes or leave behind a greasy residue. “This product has ingredients in it that help strengthen your lashes, too, which is great,” she notes.
This makeup remover is formulated with aloe and cucumber extracts, which help soothe and refresh skin. It’s also fragrance-free and ophthalmologist-approved for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes.
Best budget cleansing balm:
Compared to more expensive formulas, partnerships deputy managing editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil says this drugstore pick from Versed gets the job done more effectively. “I appreciate the gentleness of cleansing balms in comparison to other makeup-removing products, but I typically find that they leave some residual mascara or eyeliner behind,” she claims. “Not so with this one: In my experience, it’s incredibly effective, leaving no trace of makeup behind. And as a bonus, it smells great.”
Most reliable makeup remover wipes:
It seems everyone has used the Neutrogena makeup wipes at least once in their lifetime. In one quick step, these soft and gentle pre-moistened facial cleansing wipes effectively get rid of all traces of dirt, oil and makeup.
“These are the best. They’re cheap and easy,” Robinette shares. “They rarely ever make anyone break out and they’re just hands down a great product. I leave these in my car, in my purse and they’re great on the go.”
Though in October 2025, select batches of the wipes were recalled due to a potential bacterial contamination. For more information on the recall, read here.
Best makeup remover for sensitive skin:
A frequent recommendation to Bowles' patients is Vanicream's Gentle Facial Cleanser. "It’s a simple, non-stripping formula that helps remove makeup while still maintaining the skin barrier, which is important for long-term skin health," she reveals. With a soap-free base and no added fragrance, Bowles recommends the cleanser best for those with sensitive skin or "easily irritated eyes."
Best drugstore cleansing oil:
Associate partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky says this cleansing oil from Pixi "totally changed my skin." The formula uses argan oil and soybean oil to remove all traces of makeup. Though better for face makeup, according to the editor, she raves that dry, mature and sensitive skin types will enjoy its moisturizing finish after cleansing.
Most natural formula:
Just 10 ingredients are all you need to remove eye and face mask, per the brand behind this Amazon bestselling cleansing balm. Many reviewers complimented its natural fresh scent, complimenting that it had zero effects on breakouts and sensitivity. Social media producer Dani Musacchio was most impressed by its clean rinse, especially against waterproof mascara.
"I was pleasantly surprised when this cleansing balm removed my stubborn mascara quicker than any other makeup-removing product I’ve tried — and I’ve tried them all," she wrote in her review. "Of course, it took a little longer to remove than my non-waterproof mascara, but the balm still gets the job done in record time. Plus, no eyelashes were harmed in the process!"
Most-recommended makeup remover by dermatologists:
When we asked our experts about their recommended makeup removers, Bioderma’s Micellar Water was nearly on every single dermatologists’s list. Without rinsing, the formula uses the brand’s ‘Micellar Technology’ to gently “lift away makeup and debris without disrupting the skin barrier,” explains Ruth, while soothing and balancing any sensitivity.
Just squeeze a small amount onto a cotton pad to go over skin or let it ‘soak’ off stubborn eye makeup as a first step before double-cleansing. “It’s effective at breaking down makeup and lifting debris from the skin without requiring excessive rubbing, which can be helpful for the delicate eye area,” adds Bowles.
Best makeup remover for waterproof mascara:
Rubbing off stubborn mascara and eye makeup can be harmful to the delicate eye area. Because the skin is thinner, using a gentle yet effective formula to remove eye makeup is the best method for safe removal, such as the pick above.
“I love this because I think it removes the makeup really nicely, especially if you’re wearing waterproof mascara,” celebrity makeup artist Merav Adler raves. “I also found that this is the least aggressive on your eyes. It won’t remove your eyelashes, which so many other makeup removers do.”
Best makeup remover for oily/acne-prone skin:
This recent Beauty Award-winning cleansing balm has ginger and turmeric as its star ingredients. The duo is naturally anti-inflammatory, brightening and hydrating, which can assist those experiencing hyperpigmentation, scarring and acne.
“I use probably a dime’s worth of product max to take care of my entire face,” deputy managing editor Jess Bender notes. “It leaves my skin not only feeling squeaky clean, but also looking super glowy and ethereal as I go to bed every night."
Best makeup remover for SPF:
According to the brand, the Green Clean Cleansing Balm removes over 99% of SPF, foundation and waterproof formulas in just one use. "It also took off all of my makeup with minimal effort/scrubbing on my part," Witonsky attests, adding that the balm made her skin feel "deeply clean" but not stripped after use.
Best makeup remover for dry skin:
For heavier makeup, Foad recommends this classic pick from Clinique. "It melts into the skin and breaks down makeup very effectively, even waterproof formulas, without leaving the skin feeling stripped," she explains. "I find it’s especially helpful for patients who want something that feels both effective and nourishing."
I [San Miguel] have used this cleansing balm to remove makeup from my dry skin for years. It is one of the few makeup removers that doesn't burn my eyes or strip my skin after drying.
Best makeup remover for irritated skin:
Designed for sensitive skin and skin prone to atopic dermatitis and eczema, Avene’s Xeracalm Cleansing Oil is Foad's top choice for these skin types looking to build a double-cleanse routine. She describes it as "effective" and "gentle" for cleansing, but the brand also notes that the formula is good for soothing and reducing itchiness on rashes, flares and more.
Best makeup remover for mature skin:
For those with mature skin (though all skin types can enjoy it), the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm does more than just remove makeup. Upon contact with water, the balm turns into a milky texture which removes long-wearing makeup, deep cleanses impurities and softens the skin like a face mask, per the brand. This helps keep skin soft, hydrated and glowing long after use.
Editor Shannon Garlin swears "a little dab goes a long way, and it melts your makeup (including mascara) straight off."
For light exfoliation:
Editor Vivien Moon admits that she doesn't always like to wash her face, but this cleansing balm made her "love washing my face, even if it takes a little longer." She describes the texture as 'gritty' yet 'smooth,' which offers a light physical exfoliation while it cleanses the skin. "I never felt like my skin was dry or felt rough after using it, and will say that despite the price tag, I do think it’s worth it," she claims. "Considering how many products I try in a year, it’s rare that I finish something and this is one of them."
Frequently asked questions
In general, makeup removers work by loosening “the bond between the makeup and the skin, so it can be removed more easily,” explains Bowles, by using surfactants or oils to ‘lift’ makeup, dirt and grime from the skin. However, each type of makeup remover works differently to achieve the same goal.
For instance, “Micellar water contains tiny oil molecules suspended in water that attract dirt, oil, and makeup kind of like a magnet,” says Ruth. “Oil-based removers dissolve long-wear and waterproof products by breaking down their lipid components. This is based on the principle that ‘like dissolves like,’ allowing makeup to be lifted off the skin without excessive friction.”
“For waterproof makeup, I typically recommend an oil-based remover or a bi-phase formula, as these are more effective at breaking down long-wear products,” suggests Bowles. “Around the eyes, I suggest applying the remover to a cotton pad and gently pressing it onto the skin for several seconds before wiping. This helps dissolve the makeup without the need for rubbing, which can irritate the delicate skin in that area. Being gentle here is especially important to prevent unnecessary irritation or lash breakage."
The best ingredients for removing makeup depend on your skin type. Though, in general, you’ll want to look for “gentle, non-irritating ingredients that support the skin barrier,” such as glycerin, ceramides and mild surfactants, says Bowles. Be sure to avoid “harsh or alcohol-heavy formulas” that could strip the skin.
“For acne-prone or oily skin, I recommend lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas and avoiding heavier oils that can potentially clog pores,” recommends Ruth, including niacinamide. “For sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulas with minimal ingredient lists are ideal. If you wear heavier makeup, ingredients like esters or mild oils, can help dissolve it effectively without stripping the skin,” the dermatologist adds.
How we chose the best makeup removers
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. We based our picks for the best makeup removers on expert-recommended and editor-tested products.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also ensure that all expert guidance and recommendations are provided independently and without any undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Kristina Goldenberg is a New York City-based dermatologist.
- Dr. Nicole Ruth is a board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD in New York City.
- Dr. Mona Foad, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology.
- Dr. Alexandra Bowles, D.O., is a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology.
- Jeannia Robinette is a celebrity makeup artist.
- Merav Adler is a celebrity makeup artist.
