The 11 Best Makeup Removers Ever, According to Allure Editors
As fun as putting it on is, taking makeup off when you're done with it can be a huge pain in the ass (literally — bending over the sink is so uncomfortable). You've likely found yourself scrubbing at a waterproof mascara or ultra-matte lipstick to the point of irritation, unable to remove them without a leftover stain or smudge. The thought of makeup removal itself is tedious enough to make us want to skip it altogether, even though it's absolutely necessary for healthy skin.
With a quality makeup remover, however, it doesn't have to be that way. And trust us, there are plenty of great makeup removers out there, regardless of whether you prefer a balm, oil, wipe, or micellar water. We've rounded up 11 of our favorites, which can melt away all of your makeup without a hitch — yes, even those stubborn waterproof mascaras and lipsticks.
No matter your skin type, budget, or preferred formula, we've got something in this list for you. Get ready to cut that nighttime routine in half. Your skin (and your arms) will thank you for it.
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1/11Garnier
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Hyaluronic Acid Replumping Cleansing Water
The Best of Beauty-winning Garnier SkinActive Micellar Replumping Cleansing Water is a gem because it won't dry out the skin. Just add a few drops of this hyaluronic acid-based formula to a cotton round and swipe stubborn makeup away while rehydrating the skin.
2/11DHC
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil is a favorite for senior commerce writer Angela Trakoshis. "This lightweight oil feels like a dream on my skin," she says. "It's made with flower oil and olive oil to strip down any makeup or dirt from the day and leaves my face looking glowy and feeling super soft."
3/11Fenty Skin
Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Makeup Removing Cleanser
Fenty Skin's Total Cleans'r Makeup Removing Cleanser is a two-in-one product that will not only remove makeup but it'll also cleanse the skin on a deep level. The formula includes vitamin C-infused Barbados cherry, clarifying ginkgo biloba, and antioxidant-rich green tea to nourish skin.
4/11Milk Makeup
Milk Makeup Hydro Ungrip Makeup Remover + Cleansing Water
The blue agave extract is what removes makeup in the Milk Makeup Hydro Ungrip Makeup Remover + Cleansing Water but its ingredient list also works to hydrate. This is thanks to the hemp-derived cannabis seed extract, hyaluronic acid, and aloe in the bottle.
5/11One/Size
One/Size by Patrick Starrr Go Off Makeup Dissolving Mist
Unlike traditional makeup removers, the One/Size by Patrick Starrr Go Off Makeup Dissolving Mist is in spray form. Just mist the jojoba and rosehip oils directly onto any glam and wipe it away. The oils will help break down all of your makeup.
6/11Then I Met You
Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm
Another must-have for Allure editors, Then I Met You's Living Cleansing Balm doesn't just remove makeup. This golden-colored cream melts into a rich, foamy lather that sloughs off makeup, all the while repairing and nourishing skin with vitamin E and olive oil.
7/11Pond's
Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser
Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser is an old-school classic for a reason: It works. Smear the pudding-like white cream all over, then wipe it away with a damp cloth — along with any and all traces of makeup. It's especially great for dry, sensitive skin because it moisturizes as it cleanses.
8/11Lancôme
Lancôme Effacil Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
If you can't stand the greasy oil slick and blurred vision some moisturizing makeup removers can leave behind, this completely non-greasy formula by Lancôme is for you. Effacil Gentle Eye Makeup Remover evaporates seconds after you rub it over your eyes (or face, or lips, or wherever), leaving skin completely dry to the touch but somehow not dried out.
9/11The Inkey List
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
If you find it hard to use makeup remover without irritating your skin, give The Inkey List's super gentle Oat Cleansing Balm a go. While it melts away stubborn makeup, its plumping ceramides and soothing oatmeal go to work for your skin, making it a necessity if you have skin that's dry or sensitive.
10/11La Mer
La Mer The Cleansing Oil
Oil-based cleansers like La Mer's The Cleansing Oil are not only coddling; they're super effective at getting rid of notoriously stubborn makeup like long-wearing lipstick. Just one pump's worth of this beautiful, shimmery formula removes every speck of makeup, waterproof liquid liner and all. It's also probably the most luxurious face-washing experience you'll ever have.
11/11Koh Gen Do
Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water
Yes, it sounds like something you'd sip before getting a massage or manicure. Fancy-sounding name aside, Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Spa Water is just a very thorough, oil-free remover that wipes away makeup without leaving behind even the slightest hint of residue. Refreshing.
