15 Best Makeup Removers of 2024 for Every Skin Type, Tested and Reviewed
Never wake up with smudges again.
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Taking off your makeup at the end of a long day is high-key really, really annoying, but you know what’s even worse? When you’re removing said makeup, and you have to scrub, cleanse, and wash your face, like, nine times to get everything off your skin. Because taking your makeup off every single night is a necessary evil (it helps prevent breakouts, irritation, and premature aging), the key is to find a makeup remover that will gently dissolve everything (even waterproof makeup) without stripping your skin raw.
Need another example of why you should always remove your makeup and wash your face? "Pollution particles, bad bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells cling to makeup and accumulate on the surface of your skin during the day," dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD, previously told Cosmo. "If you don't wash them off, they can generate free radical damage in the skin, triggering everything from acne to redness and even premature aging." Not only that but for your ingredients to absorb properly, you need clean skin that’s totally free of oil and grime, dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, has told Cosmo. And because I know you're hyped to find out the best makeup removers, here's a sneak peek of what's to come:
Our top picks for the best makeup removers in 2024:
Ready for the entire list? Cool, because all my favorites are below. And, yes, these will actually help speed up your nightly beauty routine so you can crawl into bed and queue up that Netflix documentary even faster.
Pros
- Removes makeup while leaving skin hydrated
Cons
- Price may differ at different retailers
The hydrating humectants in this makeup remover help keep your skin's moisture barrier strong rather than stripping away your natural oils. It also doesn't leave behind a greasy film, so acne-prone skin is safe.
- Type: Micellar water
- Size: 3.4 oz., 13.5 oz., 23.7 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I am in LOVE WITH IT!" one tester writes. "I love micellar waters because they don't leave my skin sticky, yet it still feels hydrated and the micellar water takes off my makeup with ease! The size lasts me a long time."
Pros
- Breaks down waterproof makeup
Cons
- Can be hard to find in stock
Part makeup remover, part hydrator, this magical creamy milk solution breaks down tougher formulas while hydrating the face with aloe vera and Patagonia root. Think of it as a luxurious little milk bath for your face.
- Type: Cleansing milk
- Size: 6.76 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "This product gently removes makeup, has no fragrance, and really revives the skin while you sleep," one tester writes.
Pros
- Hydrating without being greasy
Cons
- Some may prefer to use it as part of double-cleansing rather than on its own
Personally, this is my favorite cleanser that I use to remove my makeup. It's the perfect step for double-cleansing, but honestly, just a few pumps remove all traces of my makeup—even glittery, caked-on liner. I mean, one bottle is sold every 10 seconds worldwide, so you know it's good.
- Type: Cleansing oil
- Size: 2.3 oz., 6.7 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I was skeptical about this type of product," one tester writes. "Putting oil on my face goes against everything I was taught in the 90's/early 2000s! However, contrary to what I thought might happen, this has not made my skin oily or break out. It takes my eye makeup off easily and without irritating my skin. I use it before washing my face with a mild cleanser and it takes off all makeup and leaves my face feeling soft."
Pros
- Calms sensitive skin with chamomile
Cons
- May transfer makeup if you don't wipe the tip in between, testers note
From mascara smears to uneven liner, this mini pen helps correct any makeup snafus without affecting the rest of your face. Ingredients like vitamin E and chamomile calm down any irritation while removing traces of makeup around your eyelids and under your eyes.
- Type: Makeup eraser pen
- Size: One pen, 0.03 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I really like using this product to clean up my lip looks!" writes one tester. "I don't wear a bold lip often—mainly because I don't feel I'm the best at applying it without mistakes and always reach for a makeup wipe to clean the lines—but since getting this eraser pen I feel like I might wear more color on my lips because of how it's SO EASY to clean up my look. I feel that I want to get another one to keep in my purse or car so that I can always touch up my look."
Pros
- Great for all skin types
Cons
- You'll need to rinse a few times to ensure the product is off
If you fancy yourself a full-face makeup look and need something to cut through your full-coverage foundation without stripping your face of its natural oils, meet your new BFF. Plus, no tugging on your skin or using 300 cotton pads to take off a day's worth of makeup here.
- Type: Cleansing balm
- Size: 3.4 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I have used this product for nearly three years now," one reviewer writes. "Prior to using it, I had struggled a lot with finding a product that could successfully remove all of my makeup while also not reacting with my sensitive skin. I have recommended this to nearly all of my friends, and they are all in love! Not to mention the fact that we all have very different skin types."
Pros
- Available in both a scented and fragrance-free version
Cons
- Reviewers don't love the dispensing system
If you're looking for an oil-free option, look no further than the Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Makeup Removing Cleanser. The creamy formula may be super gentle upon application, but it packs a punch when it comes to removing your makeup.
- Type: Cream cleanser
- Size: 4.9 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I’ve been using this product for three months now, and I bought the travel size first to try it and I am loving it," one review reads. "I have a combo skin type and it has significantly improved my oily areas without drying my face out. I really like how my face feels after using it and definitely will continue to include it in my routine!"
Pros
- Great for dry skin
Cons
- May leave behind a *bit* of waterproof mascara
If you prefer a product that does the job of many, hop on board the Shani Darden Skin Care Cleansing Serum train. Formulated as a cleanser with a serum-like texture, this bb removes makeup and gunk from your skin while leaving it hydrated and soft af.
- Type: Cleansing serum
- Size: 5 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "This gentle cleanser is fantastic! It has no fragrance, lathers beautifully, and takes off my makeup so well," reads one review. "My skin is sensitive and tends to have some red patches, but after using this cleanser for a week now, I've noticed my skin is clearer, brighter, and hydrated. I love how my skin looks and feels after every face wash."
Pros
- Fragrance-free, gentle formula is great for sensitive skin types
Cons
- May dry out fast on a cotton pad
Gentle? Check. Fragrance-free? Check. Effectively removes face makeup with zero oily residue? Check. This makeup remover was legit made for your sensitive skin. Bonus: It's formulated with hydrating aloe vera and soothing ginseng and green tea.
- Type: Water/oil cleanser
- Size: 6 oz.
- Cruelty-free? No
THE REVIEW: "Very few things come or work just as they are described, luckily this is one of them," one review reads. "It does not leave a greasy mess, it just leaves your skin feeling soft. Very good to take off waterproof mascara. Great buy!"
Pros
- Great for all skin types
Cons
- Some testers don't love the natural fragrance
This organic cleansing oil feels like an absolute dream on your skin—the combo of vitamin E, sunflower seed oil, beeswax, and papaya seed oil means that your makeup comes off gently and it won't leave your skin feeling tight or dry.
- Type: Cleansing oil
- Size: 4 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "This is the perfect oil cleanser for me. Not too light, not too heavy—cleans off all makeup very easily and smoothly without tugging at the skin," reads one review. "Double cleanses like a dream—leaves skin moisturized with no residue. Wonderful scent that isn't too heavy."
Pros
- Leaves no makeup behind
Cons
- Can leave an oily-like residue on your skin
If you're a contact-lens wearer or have super sensitive eyes, this paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free solution is the answer to your waterproof-makeup prayers. Another plus: It's packed with flavonoids and olive-wood extract that work to strengthen lashes.
- Type: Eye makeup remover
- Size: 1.69 oz.
- Cruelty-free? No
THE REVIEW "Literally the best makeup remover I have ever used. Not a spec of makeup (even the waterproof stuff) stays behind and it works great with a cotton round or on a washcloth in a pinch," writes one tester.
Pros
- Contains marula oil for ultra moisture
Cons
- Not oil-free, so it's not the best for acne-prone skin
I'm obsessed with this makeup remover—it definitely lives up to its name. I just work it into my skin, and instantly, my bold winged liner and matte-finish foundation melt away. Plus, the oil blend is perfect for anyone with dry skin—it will leave your skin feeling super smooth and hydrated long after you rinse.
- Type: Cleansing balm
- Size: 3.88 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "I absolutely love this product," reads one review. "I've been using it for a couple of years now and have extremely dry skin. I always massage it into my face and apply it more heavily wherever my makeup is thickest. Massaging it in really helps with breaking the makeup down and also moisturizing my skin. Afterward, I just wipe it off with my microfiber makeup remover towel."
Pros
- Gentle enough to use multiple times a day, every day
Cons
- Super popular, so it's often sold out at the drugstore
Whether you've got dry skin, oily skin, or fall somewhere in between, you can def count on this makeup remover. The water-based formula is filled with just micelles (bb molecules that dissolve dirt) and soothing cucumber extract—no oil, alcohol, or parabens included, making it a 10 out of 10 option for any skin type.
- Type: Micellar water
- Size: 16.7 oz.
- Cruelty-free? No
THE REVIEW: "I love this Micellar water compared to others because it is super gentle, doesn’t leave an oily residue, and doesn’t burn my eyes," reads one review. "It’s great for taking off makeup or just freshening up without washing your face."
Pros
- Great for sensitive and/or acne-prone skin
Cons
- May feel a bit greasy
This formula can be used on dry or wet skin. Here's how: On dry skin, it breaks down makeup with a quick swipe over your face with a cotton pad. On wet skin, its milky jelly consistency is viscous enough to stay on your skin (without sliding off your face) to help dissolve your makeup, dirt, and excess oils.
- Type: Jelly Cleanser
- Size: 6.4 oz.
- Cruelty-free? Yes
THE REVIEW: "This product is everything it claims to be and more," one review reads. "It has truly become a staple in my routine. I don't wear makeup daily, but when I do I will double cleanse with this and then go in with my face wash. I have sensitive/acne-prone skin, and this product has never broken me out nor does it dry my skin out. I've been through numerous bottles and haven't found anything I don't like about it! Highly recommend!"
Pros
- Takes off every little bit of makeup
Cons
- Need to machine-wash the cloth
Okay, I know makeup wipes can feel wasteful, which is why this miracle product comes in handy. Simply soak this 100 percent polyester cloth in water, then start removing your makeup. Yup, that’s it. Here’s a tip, though: Machine-wash the cloth before your first use to avoid getting fuzzy bits all over your face.
- Type: Cloth
- Size: One cloth
THE REVIEW: "Amazingly effective," one review reads. "I don’t wear makeup all the time, often because I hate taking it off at night. I’m wearing makeup more than ever because of how easily the Makeup Eraser takes it off."
Pros
- Super great for on-the-go use
Cons
- You can run through them rather quickly
Listen, wipes are never as great as a full double-cleanse (even wipes should be used before actually washing your face!), but if you can’t be bothered (or are a little ~lazy~), these bbs are better than nothing. All 25 of these premoistened makeup remover wipes are gentle enough to use around your eye area (yes, the formula even removes waterproof makeup) and can clear away foundation and eyeshadow in just one swipe.
- Type: Wipes
- Size: 25 wipes
- Cruelty-free? No
THE REVIEW: "These makeup-removing towelettes are the best!" reads one review. "I usually have to use a few or so with other brands, but with these, I use one, maybe two, and it gets the job done. They do not irritate my skin or leave my skin feeling weird. I am already a Neutrogena fan and my fandom just keeps growing for this brand."
What is the best way to remove makeup without damaging skin?
The best way to remove makeup without damaging your skin is to always go in with a gentle approach and use the correct formula for your skin type and what kind of makeup you're wearing. If you're looking to remove your mascara and eyeshadow, use an eye makeup remover—and use it only in your eye area, it'll be too heavy for the rest of your face.
The same concept applies to makeup removers in general; if you typically wear lighter makeup (i.e., a tinted moisturizer and a bit of blush), a simple cleanser will do the trick (try: Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Remover). If you wear a fuller face (i.e., foundation and waterproof makeup) you should go for an oil-based cleanser (try: DHC Deep Oil Facial Cleanser) and consider doing a double cleanse.
How to choose the best makeup remover:
Consider the formula
It's 2023, and there are a million and one different formulations of makeup remover. If you have dry skin or typically wear full-coverage makeup, you can opt for a cleansing balm that will remove legit *everything* while moisturizing the skin. Makeup removers that are micellar water-based (or a liquid formulation) are typically great for skin that's on the oilier side.
Evaluate the ingredients
As with every skincare product, it's important to take a peek at the ingredients in the makeup remover. If you have particularly dry skin, look for makeup removers with hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera or other humectants like hyaluronic acid. On the other hand, if you struggle with oily and greasy skin, your best bet is to stick to an oil-free product. It may take a few trials and errors, but you will discover what works (and what doesn't!) with your skin over time.
Meet the experts:
- Shari Marchbein, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Her areas of expertise include medical and cosmetic dermatology, and she specializes in acne and rosacea. Dr. Marchbein recently spoke to Cosmopolitan about skincare tricks when traveling.
- Mona Gohara, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, CT. Dr. Gohara currently teaches at Yale and is the president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society. Her areas of expertise include medical and surgical dermatology and skin of color. Dr. Gohara recently spoke to Cosmopolitan about how often you should wash your face.
Why trust Cosmo?
Siena Gagliano is an associate editor at Cosmopolitan who writes beauty, with over three years of experience writing in the makeup, skin, and hair spaces. She’s an expert at researching and writing skincare stories, like the best blackhead removal tools and the best clear sunscreens, and feels especially knowledgable about makeup removers thanks to being a beauty editor and therefore trying a million different types. She regularly tests and analyzes makeup removers on her own skin for efficacy while working with the industry’s top dermatologists to assess new formulas and products.
Ama Kwarteng was the associate beauty editor at Cosmopolitan for nearly three years, and has eight years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and entertainment across print and digital, including the best body lotions for dry skin and how to DIY a facial at home. Her makeup remover picks were based on product reviews, ratings, and personal testing.
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