While it’s nearly always fun to apply a full face of makeup, taking it off is another story. Without the right product to melt it all away, you’ll be left rubbing your eyes to the point of irritation—and even then, there might still be some evidence of the mascara you applied hours ago.
However, there’s no way around it: Removing your makeup at the end of the day is a must. If you choose not to, you put yourself at risk of a number of unhygienic consequences that will wreak havoc on your skin (and, in turn, your confidence). Fortunately, a great makeup remover makes this process quick and painless. And even better, there are all different kinds of products out there, from lightweight water-based cleansers to nutrient-rich oils.
How To Determine Which Kind Of Makeup Remover Is Right For Your Skin
Here’s the bottom line: If you’re going to apply and remove makeup every day (or even just a few times a week), you need to choose a product that is effective but also works with your skin type. So, while your bestie may have a product they swear by, it may not work as well for you as it does for them.
For those with oily skin, a lightweight, oil-free makeup remover is best. This will ensure that while your routine removes excess oil on top of the skin, it won’t add any back in. Alternatively, those with dry skin can benefit from the hydrating effect that comes with using an oil-based makeup remover or a rich, balm-like product. And for those with combo or acne-prone skin, dermatologists and makeup artists recommended micellar water—a gentle facial cleanser made from purified water, moisturizers, and mild soaps.
How We Found The Internet’s Best Makeup Removers
Here’s our promise: unbiased product rankings that take everything from user reviews to editorial mentions to social buzz into consideration. It’s science, not hearsay, so you can trust that you’re truly getting a list of the best makeup removers money can buy. Ready to make your skincare routine that much easier? Keep scrolling to see which 10 cleansers made the cut.
July 26, 2023
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
Overall Score
4.6
10
Biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
4.43
1833 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Hydrating Makeup Remover
FORMULA FACT
This makeup remover is formulated with sugarcane-derived squalane oil, an ingredient that mimics the skin’s natural oil, making it an excellent option if you're looking for lightweight hydration or have oily skin. In fact, it's the acne-prone reviewers that seem to praise this one the most.
REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
"In just a few days, this product works like a charm, leaving my skin feeling softer than ever while also noticeably cleansing impurities right off. Massaging this formula into my skin revitalizes areas of dullness and does not feel stripping in any way. The addition of squalane keeps moisture locked in throughout the day, and my typically oily skin looks healthier than ever."
Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover
Overall Score
4.75
09
Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover
4.6
31843 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstroe Makeup Remover
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Cetaphil is like an old friend—dependable and reliable. They’ve put their 70+ years of skincare experience into the formula behind their Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover, which includes aloe vera, ginseng, and green tea to create a soothing cleansing experience.
MORE TO KNOW
Cetaphil’s makeup remover is clinically tested, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, making it a great option for sensitive skin.
Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Makeup-Removing Cleanser
Overall Score
4.75
08
Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Makeup-Removing Cleanser
4.67
8652 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover For Oily Skin
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
If you lean on the less-is-more side when it comes to skincare, you'll love Fenty's two-in-one makeup-removing cleanser. It can tackle a day's worth of dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving a trace behind.
MORE TO KNOW
It's worth mentioning the killer ingredient lineup, too—think vitamin C-infused Barbados cherry, clarifying ginkgo biloba, and antioxidant-rich green tea.
Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
Dermalogica PreCleanse
Overall Score
4.75
07
Dermalogica PreCleanse
4.69
9132 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Waterproof Makeup Remover
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
According to Dermalogica, over 100,000 skin therapists around the world use their products. So, if you’re willing to splurge on a cleanser, why not choose one that’s approved by countless experts?
MORE TO KNOW
Formulated with a lightweight blend of kukui nut, borage seed, and apricot kernel oils, this cleanser gently melts away makeup, sunscreen, and build-up.
Cruelty Free
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
Overall Score
4.9
06
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
4.6
11431 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover For Sensitive Skin
FORMULA FACT
Whatever your day entails (such as a full beat, multiple layers of sunscreen, etc.), this cleansing balm can handle it. Its lightweight, vegan formula simultaneously nourishes and cleanses skin—all without grease or dryness.
MORE TO KNOW
Not only is this makeup remover an Allure Best of Beauty award winner, but it also has over 3,000 5-star reviews on Sephora’s website.
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
Overall Score
4.23
05
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
4.7
4643 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover Oil
FORMULA FACT
The secret ingredient in DHC’s Deep Cleansing Oil is Flor de Aceite, the essence of organic olive oil. In addition to being extremely hydrating, olive oil binds to sebum and other end-of-day grime on your face to help rinse it all away.
MORE TO KNOW
A cult-favorite and reviewer-praised cleanser, this oil-based face wash is safe for sensitive skin while still being heavy-duty enough to take on layers of eye makeup.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelettes
Overall Score
5
04
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelettes
4.76
105876 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover Wipes
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Whether you need to wipe off a post-work gym session or the feeling of an extra-long flight, sometimes you want a convenient way to feel clean fast. On such occasions, Neutrogena’s cleansing towelettes will be there.
MORE TO KNOW
These wipes are alcohol-free and safe for sensitive skin. Some reviewers recommend wetting your face before use to minimize the potential for irritation.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Overall Score
5
03
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
4.77
45897 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover Micellar Water
FORMULA FACT
If you’re cringing at the thought of trying a new product due to your hypersensitive skin, this one’s for you. It’s recommended for anyone with sensitivities, redness, or rosacea. Plus, Bioderma is the inventor of dermatological micellar water, so you're getting it straight from the source.
MORE TO KNOW
Cleanses and soothes? Yes, please. This product can easily take down waterproof mascara without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
Overall Score
5
02
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
4.67
14999 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover Blam
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm is an award-winning, clinically tested cleansing balm made with clean ingredients and recyclable packaging. Here's what its formula includes: sunflower and ginger root oil to break down stubborn makeup, and turmeric and moringa extract to fight impurities.
GOOD TO KNOW
This product is best for those with oily, combo, or normal skin, as it’s designed to treat dullness and uneven texture.
Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water For Waterproof Makeup
Overall Score
5
01
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water For Waterproof Makeup
4.66
84150 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Makeup Remover Overall
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The basis of this cleanser, micellar water, is a multi-purpose skin tonic you can use as a makeup remover, cleanser, or toner. All that for less than $7? Done.
REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
"This effectively removes my waterproof makeup and heavy foundation/SPF, leaves my skin so smooth and clean, and it's super gentle—it doesn't sting my eyes. I think it works well on my sensitive, combo-dry skin. If you use it as a second cleanse, the oily residue completely disappears. Great size, affordable, and vegan."
Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
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