These Makeup Removers Don’t Leave Anything Behind (2025)

After perfecting that cat eye or layering on just the right amount of mascara, wiping it all off feels like a crime. But the best makeup removers make the process painless, dissolving even the most stubborn formulas without tugging or irritation. “Makeup removers are a cornerstone of good skin-care hygiene,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle. “If not properly removed, residue can clog pores and trigger inflammation, leading to breakouts and dull, irritated skin.” Plus, nighttime is when your skin does its best work. “By cleansing all makeup off each night, you’re allowing your skin to ‘breathe,’ renew cells, and fully absorb any treatment products you apply afterward,” says Dr. Sung.

Whether you love a full-face vibe or are more of a tinted moisturizer girly, these makeup removers keep your skin clean, happy, and ready for beauty sleep.

Our Top Makeup Removers

• Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil, $18
• Best Cleansing Balm: Banila Co Clean it Zero Original Cleansing Balm, $29
• Best for Dry Skin: Clinique Take the Day Off Facial Cleansing Mousse, $34
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm, $39
• Best Micellar Water: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, $20
• Best Cleansing Gel: Eucerin Face Gentle Cleansing Hydrating Cleansing Gel, $13
• Best Cleansing Lotion: Estée Lauder Take It Away Liquid Makeup Remover Lotion, $38
• Best Makeup Remover Wipes: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Removing Wipes, $10
• Best Eye Makeup Remover: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover, $36
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water, $10
• Best for Mature Skin: Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser, $88

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s the best way to remove makeup?
• How should you remove eye makeup?
• How we test and review products
• Meet the experts
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil

Why we love it: Approved by the National Eczema Association, La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil checks off all the boxes for a makeup remover that’s gentle, effective, and perfect for all skin types. “It combines the benefits of an oil cleanser and a foaming wash, effortlessly dissolving makeup and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture,” says Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC. “It’s hypoallergenic and great at removing waterproof mascara, heavy makeup, and water-resistant sunscreen. Plus, the niacinamide helps soothe any irritation or redness,” adds Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology in East Norriton, PA. Whether removing your makeup after a long day or bathing your little one (yes, it’s even gentle enough for babies as young as two weeks), this fragrance-free formula leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and perfectly hydrated.

Tester feedback: "I'm pretty low-maintenance, so my gripe with most cleansers is that I need a separate micellar water to remove my waterproof mascara. Two steps? With a toddler? I prefer this oil-based cleanser, which not only rinses away my more stubborn makeup and sunscreen with ease but also has a really nice, satisfying lather," says contributing editor Deanna Pai. "And it just works: Even when I've got a full eye look, I never have to go back in to swipe away residue from my lashes."

Key ingredients: prebiotic thermal water, niacinamide, shea butter, glycerin | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: everyone

Best Cleansing Balm: Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

Why we love it: Achieving that coveted glass skin glow starts with a thorough cleanse, and Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm is a must-have for this essential first step. This iconic K-beauty favorite transforms from a pastel pink sherbet-textured balm into a silky oil that effortlessly melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping the skin. “I’ve been using this myself, and I love it. Thanks to its nourishing oil blend, it effortlessly melts away even heavy makeup. It leaves the skin feeling fresh and hydrated—no dryness or residue. Plus, it comes with a spatula to keep things hygienic,” says Dr. Kazlouskaya. Infused with acerola cherry extract and vitamin C, it leaves your complexion clean, hydrated, and perfectly prepped for the rest of your routine.

Tester feedback: “Banila Co Clean It Zero is the blueprint for cleansing balms. It melts upon contact with my skin, and I can massage it—even around my eyes, which need the most attention when I'm wearing liquid eye shadow, like I am in this video clip—without tugging my skin at all. (No premature wrinkles, please!) says commerce editor Sarah Han. ”It has vitamin C-rich acerola extract for a little brightening boost, but don't expect much from any cleanser. (That's what serums are for!) I will note: If you're sensitive to added fragrance, check out one of the SEVEN other variations of Clean It Zero—such as Cica-Relief Calming."

Key ingredients: acerola cherry extract, vitamin C, vitamin E, hot springs water | Fragrance-free: no | Who it’s for: all skin types

Best for Dry Skin: Clinique Take the Day Off Facial Cleansing Mousse

Why we love it: A 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner, Clinique's Take The Day Off Facial Cleansing Mousse is the newest star in the brand’s iconic Take The Day Off lineup—joining its legendary cleansing balm (another Best of Beauty winner). If you’re a fan of the airy, refreshing feel of a foam cleanser, this one’s a dream. The feather-light mousse feels like a hydrating cloud, infused with 10% glycerin and hyaluronic acid to keep your complexion smooth, balanced, and never dry. It effortlessly melts away long-wearing makeup, sunscreen, and grime, while the coconut-derived cleansing agents tackle even the most stubborn makeup—without messing with your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Tester feedback: Content editor Kara McGrath puts it simply: "This is my ideal cleanser. It foams up luxuriously, doesn't feel stripping, and actually gets rid of makeup. It's also unscented, which I know is a big selling point for some," she says.

Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, coconut | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: people with mature and/or dry skin

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm

Why we love it: So fresh and so green: Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm is a minty green, melts-in-your-hands balm that transforms into a silky oil to whisk away even the most stubborn of waterproof eye makeup. “This balm contains sunflower oil, moringa extract, and papaya enzymes, making it a great choice for gently removing makeup while providing light exfoliation,” Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center in New York City and Southampton, New York, previously told Allure. It's an excellent choice for acne-prone skin because it’s one of the few cleansing balms that also features exfoliating ingredients. It doesn’t just take off makeup and grime—it clears out pores and leaves your skin feeling super clean and rejuvenated. (Heads up: While it does have fragrance, you can also opt for the fragrance-free version if you have a sensitivity or just have a personal preference.)

Tester feedback: “Few products completely remove every trace of makeup quite like Farmacy's Green Clean Cleansing Balm,” raves commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann. “My skin is generally pretty clear, but when I'm not washing my face properly, my skin is quick to let me know that it's angry with me. This balm provides such a thorough, gentle cleanse that it's never made my skin unhappy.”

Key ingredients: sunflower oil, moringa extract, papaya enzymes, gluconolactone (PHA) | Fragrance-free: no | Who it’s for: people with acne-prone skin

Best Micellar Water: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

Why we love it: What began as a French pharmacy secret has become an iconic skin-care staple loved by dermatologists everywhere. Case in point: All derms we interviewed for this story ranked Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water among their top makeup remover recommendations. If you’re not familiar with it, “Micellar water is a liquid, water-based cleanser packed with micelles that trap and lift makeup from your skin,” explains Dr. Saedi. Think of these tiny cleansing molecules as little magnets, pulling away dirt, oil, and grime—no harsh scrubbing or rinsing required. “This micellar water effortlessly removes even the most stubborn makeup while remaining incredibly gentle,” says Dr. Kazlouskaya. She highlights the no-rinse formula as a major perk, making it perfect for those with sensitive or reactive skin who want to avoid over-cleansing or irritating their skin barrier.

Beyond its makeup-removing powers, the formula is also dermatologist-approved for acne-prone and easily irritated skin types. “It’s non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), oil-free, and fragrance-free—making it less likely to irritate or cause breakouts,” adds Caren Campbell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Francisco.

Editor’s tip: While micellar water is excellent at removing makeup, it truly shines as the first step in a double cleanse. “Micellar water effectively lifts away makeup, dirt, and oil, but for a deeper clean, follow it up with a gentle face wash like SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser,” says Dr. Campbell. This two-step routine makes sure every last bit of grime is gone.

Key ingredients: micellar water, cucumber extract | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin

More makeup removers we love:

Best Cleansing Gel: Eucerin Face Gentle Cleansing Hydrating Cleansing Gel

Why we love it: Take it from Dr. Kazlouskaya, who keeps Eucerin's Face Gentle Cleansing Hydrating Cleansing Gel front and center on her top shelf. “It’s fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin, plus it has a satisfying lather without drying out the skin,” she says. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, it seals in moisture as it cleanses, preventing that tight, dry feeling post-wash. The science lies in its APG Cleansing Complex, a mild yet effective system that removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin. It’s no wonder this hydrating gel is what Dr. Kazlouskaya calls “a game-changer.”

Editor’s tip: Want an extra-deep clean? Apply the gel to dry or damp skin and go in with a silicone cleansing brush to gently lift away impurities.

Key ingredients: glycerin, coco-betaine | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin

Best Cleansing Lotion: Estée Lauder Take It Away Liquid Makeup Remover Lotion

Why we love it: Waterproof mascara lovers, rejoice. Estée Lauder's Take It Away Liquid Makeup Remover Lotion effortlessly sweeps away even the most stubborn eye makeup. “Packed with squalane, this rich formula melts away makeup while leaving your skin soft and hydrated. It’s perfect for anyone with dry or mature skin who loves a lotion-based remover over oily or balmy options,” says Dr. Kazlouskaya. This lightweight, water-based formula effortlessly dissolves long-wear makeup without leaving any greasy residue. We also enjoy the subtle citrus scent that feels pampering and calming as you soak your eye makeup away.

Editor’s tip: It’s an ophthalmologist-tested formula, so it’s safe around the delicate eye area.

Key ingredients: cucumber extract, jojoba seed oil, barley, aloe | Fragrance-free: no | Who it’s for: people with dry or mature skin

Best Makeup Remover Wipes: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Removing Wipes

Why we love it: Accepted by the National Eczema Association, CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Remover Wipes offer a gentle yet effective way to remove makeup, dirt, and oil while locking in moisture. These biodegradable, plant-based wipes are soaked in a ceramide-infused cleansing solution that nourishes as it cleanses. “While I generally prefer traditional cleansers over wipes, these get a dermatologist’s nod for those moments when convenience is key—like during travel or late nights,” says Dr. Sung. For those with sensitive skin, Dr. Campbell highlights an added benefit: “They don’t contain MCI (methylchloroisothiazolinone) or MI (methylisothiazolinone), which are common potential allergens in wet wipes.” With no harsh ingredients and plenty of hydrating goodness, these wipes are a reliable go-to when you need a quick, gentle cleanse.

Editor’s tip: Of course, we all know that sometimes you just want to grab a wipe and call it a night—but your skin will thank you if you follow up with a proper cleanse.

Key ingredients: ceramides, glycerin | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: people with dry or sensitive skin

Best Eye Makeup Remover: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Why we love it: Any pro can spot this iconic little blue bottle from a mile away. The ophthalmologist-approved Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover has been a beauty staple for over two decades—and for good reason. “This blue bi-phase liquid combines an oil phase to dissolve long-wearing makeup with a water phase to whisk away residue,” says Dr. Sung. “A quick shake of the bottle blends the formula, breaking down waterproof liners, mascara, and smoky eye looks, all while feeling lightweight and gentle.” For eye makeup removers, gentleness is key—especially for sensitive eyes. “It famously leaves behind zero oily film, just clean lids and lashes,” says Dr. Sung. Dr. Kozlovskaya is also a devoted fan: “I keep repurchasing this product because it’s so effective yet incredibly gentle. It removes every trace of makeup without irritating my skin and leaves my eyelids feeling clean and hydrated.”

Editor’s tip: Bi-Facil isn’t just for your eyes. “If you wear long-wearing lipstick, this remover makes taking it off effortless,” says Dr. Sung.

Key ingredients: cyclopentasiloxane (makeup remover and skin conditioner) | Fragrance-free: no | Who it’s for: all skin types and contact lens wearers

Best for Sensitive Skin: Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

Why we love it: Dr. Campbell is a big fan of micellar water, noting that it’s “non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores and is oil-free, making it unlikely to worsen acne or irritate sensitive skin.” One of her go-to picks is Garnier Micellar Water, an all-in-one facial cleanser and makeup remover that ’s gentle enough for all skin types. It effortlessly lifts away makeup, dirt, and oil without stripping the skin. Ophthalmologist-tested for safety, it’s also suitable for use on the face, lips, and even the delicate eye area—making it a versatile, skin-friendly staple. “Plus, it’s fragrance-free, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions,” she says.

Editor’s tip: Micellar water is also an excellent, gentle option for cleaning makeup brushes.

Key ingredients: micellar water | Fragrance free: yes | Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin

Best for Mature Skin: Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser

Why we love it: When you want your facial cleansing routine to feel like a luxurious treat rather than a mundane task, dermatologists often recommend Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser. This luxurious formula combines sacha inchi oil—rich in omega-3 fatty acids—to fortify the skin barrier, jojoba seed oil to maintain moisture and balance sebum production, and apricot kernel oil to provide deep hydration while dissolving impurities. A touch of grapefruit essential oil imparts a refreshing, uplifting scent. Gentle yet effective, this cleanser effortlessly removes makeup without stripping your skin, leaving it refreshed and hydrated. According to Gloria Lin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, it’s one of the best facial cleansing oils on the market.

Editor’s tip: This oil-based formula is best used on dry skin. Gently massage it all over your face before washing off.

Key ingredients: squalane, jojoba oil, green tea oil | Fragrance-free: no | Who it's for: those dealing with age-related dryness and laxity

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to remove makeup?

According to Dr. Sung, double cleansing is the best way to remove makeup. “Using just a regular face wash can leave behind a film of foundation or sunscreen,” she explains. Double cleansing gives your skin a deep clean in two easy steps. First, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to melt away makeup and grime. “For example, you might start with a cleansing balm to melt away a full face of makeup,” says Dr. Sung. After rinsing, you’d follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser to sweep away any leftover residue and leave your skin feeling fresh. While this method may take a bit longer, “It minimizes the risk of leaving residue behind and leaves your skin perfectly clean—without feeling stripped—creating the ideal base for your nighttime skin-care routine,” Dr. Sung notes.

How should you remove eye makeup?

It’s important to take extra care when removing makeup around the delicate eye area. “Never tug or roughly scrub off stubborn mascara or liner—that’s a recipe for irritation, redness, and, over time, fine lines,” cautions Dr. Sung. “Instead, soak a cotton pad with a dedicated ophthalmologist-tested eye makeup remover or micellar water, then gently press and hold it against your closed eyelid for 15 to 20 seconds.” This gives the formula time to dissolve waterproof mascara and pigments. After the brief soak, slowly wipe downward to melt away the makeup with minimal rubbing. “If any bits remain along the lash line, use a Q-tip dipped in remover to clean up carefully,” she says.

A special note for eyelash extensions: “To protect lash extensions, avoid oil-based removers that can dissolve the adhesive and cause premature shedding. Instead, use oil-free, lash-safe removers like micellar waters or foaming cleansers. Gently cleanse along the lash line with a fluffy brush or clean spoolie—no cotton pad,” says Dr. Sung.

Meet the experts

• Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist and CEO of Dermatology Circle based in NYC
• Caren Campbell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Francisco
• Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of The Perq based in Seattle
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology in East Norriton, PA
• Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center in NYC and Southampton, New York
• Gloria Lin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for any review, butskin-care productsare another story. While some can be used across different skin types, tones, textures, and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. We guarantee that these factors are considered when determining whether a skin-care product is worthy of a recommendation.

For our review of the best face makeup removers, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts we've interviewed for the piece—who all have different complexion concerns and types, desired outcomes (e.g. diminished appearance of blackheads), and whether one product was tested across multiple skin types. Testers considered performance across the following primary categories: efficacy, texture, ingredients, and value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

Now that you know how to properly remove it, why not indulge in some of our favorite makeup picks?

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Now, watch Olympic champion Suni Lee take you through her 10-minute makeup routine:

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