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Photo Credit: Mytour / Alli WaatajaWhile wearing eye makeup can be exciting, removing it is a whole different challenge. Instead of vigorously scrubbing your eyes to get rid of any leftover shadow, liner, or mascara, you should opt for a trustworthy eye makeup remover that effectively dissolves makeup without irritating your skin.
"The makeup should effortlessly come off with no harsh tugging at the delicate skin around your eyes," says Kasey Spickard, a makeup artist.
We’ve evaluated the best eye makeup removers available, taking into account factors like product type, essential ingredients, and pricing to curate a list of the top options for every skin type. Additionally, we consulted Spickard for expert advice on the most effective ways to remove stubborn eye makeup and what to look for in a high-quality remover.
Top Choice for Eye Makeup Remover
Bioderma H2O Micellar Solution
PHOTO: DermstoreIt’s designed to cleanse the entire face, not just the eyes.
It might be too moisturizing for those with oily skin.
The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water effortlessly removes everything from resistant mascara to your daily sunscreen with its mild yet powerful formula. Its versatility and suitability for all skin types make it our top pick for the best overall eye makeup remover.
This formula features the brand’s Dermatological Advanced Formula, which helps soothe irritation and enhances the tolerance level of sensitive skin, enabling it to better endure daily environmental stressors. It’s also free from harsh alcohols and utilizes gentle micellar water to effectively remove all traces of eye makeup. With six different sizes available at a reasonable price, Bioderma Sensibio is a must-have in any skincare collection.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Micellar water | Sizes: 8.33, 16.7, 16.9, or 28.7 ounces
Best Affordable Eye Makeup Remover
Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover
PHOTO: AmazonA small amount of product goes a long way.
It contains alcohol, which may not be ideal for those with sensitive skin.
The Neutrogena Oil-Free Liquid Eye Makeup Remover offers an affordable, effective solution to remove eye makeup gently, leaving no oily residue behind.
We appreciate that this formula includes cucumber and aloe, although those with sensitive skin should be cautious due to the presence of alcohol. It’s both ophthalmologist-tested and dermatologist-developed, ensuring its safety for contact lens wearers.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Cucumber and aloe | Size: 3.8 or 5.5 ounces
Best Luxury Eye Makeup Remover
La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water
PHOTO: SephoraThe formula not only removes makeup but also nourishes the skin.
It’s quite expensive, even for a luxury option.
La Mer is famous for its skincare line, and The Cleansing Micellar Water is a hidden gem that's definitely worth exploring. Packed with the brand’s Miracle Broth and sea-sourced ingredients, this formula effectively dissolves water-resistant makeup without harsh tugging or rubbing. The marine-based elements also nourish and hydrate the skin while preserving its natural barrier.
La Mer's Micellar Water is appropriate for all skin types, cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens, phthalates, and SLS. While it is undeniably a luxury item, it comes in a generous 6.7-ounce bottle with recyclable packaging, which offers more value compared to other options on our list.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: "Miracle Broth" (a blend of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals) and micellar water | Size: 6.7 ounces
Best Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
Cetaphil Waterproof Makeup Remover
PHOTO: AmazonThe formula is mild and free from oils or fragrances.
The dispenser can sometimes be a bit messy.
Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover is our top recommendation for sensitive skin and eyes. This gentle formula removes long-wear makeup without oils or fragrances, which can leave behind residue or cause irritation. It features key ingredients such as aloe, ginseng, and green tea to hydrate, soothe, and balance the skin. Additionally, it contains glycerin to provide extra moisture, effortlessly breaking down even bold eye makeup with just a few swipes.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Aloe, ginseng, and green tea | Size: 6 ounces
Best Eye Makeup Remover for Waterproof Mascara
La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover
PHOTO: La Roche-PosayThe formula contains a short list of ingredients that are both mild and effective.
It may leave a subtle oily residue behind.
The La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover is an excellent option for gently removing makeup without the harsh pulling or tugging that can lead to under-eye wrinkles or lash damage. With no parabens or fragrances, it's perfect for sensitive skin and has been both dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested for added peace of mind.
The key ingredient in this formula is Poloxamer, which effortlessly breaks down makeup, making it our top choice for removing waterproof mascara and eyeliner without irritating the eyes.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Poloxamer | Size: 4.2 ounces
Best Eye Makeup Remover for Mature Skin
Shiseido Eye & Lip Makeup Remover
PHOTO: NordstromThe formula features xylitol, a well-known hydrating ingredient.
It contains added fragrances.
The Shiseido Instant Eye and Lip Makeup Remover is ideal for mature skin needing extra hydration, with xylitol to help lock in moisture around the eyes and lips. Dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-approved, this remover delivers exceptional care.
Its unique dropper-style packaging ensures precise application, preventing any product oversaturation and promoting efficient makeup removal without irritation. A small amount is all it takes to effortlessly remove even the most stubborn mascara, lip stains, and makeup.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Xylitol | Size: 4.2 ounces
Ideal Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin
Avene Eau Thermal Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
PHOTO: AmazonThe gel-like texture provides hydration without causing any pulling on the skin.
The packaging design could be enhanced.
Avene's Gentle Eye Makeup Remover offers a blend of makeup removal and hydration, leaving the eyes feeling refreshed and calm. Infused with thermal spring water, known for its calming properties, and sorbitol, which helps lock in moisture, this gel-like formula is weightless on the skin and doesn't leave a residue, making it perfect for removing makeup before cleansing.
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water, sorbitol | Size: 4.2 ounces
Top Choice for Hydrating Eye Makeup Remover
Typology Bi-Phase Eye Makeup Remover
PHOTO: TypologyThe formula is enriched with nourishing skincare ingredients.
This remover may not be ideal for oily skin types due to its castor oil content.
Typology's Bi-Phase Eye Makeup Remover, infused with 1% Pea Peptides and Castor Oil, not only removes makeup effectively but also offers skincare benefits, thanks to its multifunctional formula.
Castor oil adds hydrating and antioxidant properties, while pea peptides help strengthen lash cuticles and enhance lash density over time, according to the brand. Chamomile is also included to calm sensitive skin, making this an excellent option for sensitive eyes. Additionally, the product is cruelty-free, vegan, and 99% naturally derived.
Form: Liquid | Main Ingredients: Pea peptides, castor oil, chamomile | Volume: 3.38 ounces
Top Eye Makeup Remover Pads
Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads
PHOTO: AmazonSafe for use with contact lenses.
Each use contributes to single-use waste, affecting sustainability.
Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads bring the power of micellar water to pre-soaked pads, offering a simple solution for removing eye makeup anywhere. With 100 pads in each container, they're perfect for tossing in a purse or overnight bag for convenient makeup removal at any time.
These pads are enriched with glycerin, castor oil, and aloe, which work to nourish and hydrate the delicate eye area. They are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and eyes, even for contact lens wearers. The formula requires no rinsing and leaves no residue, making it an easy and efficient choice for makeup removal.
Form: Pads | Main Ingredients: Aloe, castor oil, glycerin | Count: 100 pads
Top Pick for Eye Makeup Remover Balm
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
PHOTO: SephoraThis product serves as an all-in-one makeup remover suitable for the entire face.
Not suitable for those seeking a no-rinse solution.
Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is ideal for those with dry skin. This product is the more hydrating and versatile version of the brand's popular Take the Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips, formulated for full-face makeup removal. It preserves your skin’s natural oils, unlike water-based removers, and features safflower oil, a natural emollient known for its hydrating and soothing properties. Safflower oil creates a moisture-locking barrier, keeping your skin smooth and protected from inflammation.
Despite its rich texture, this balm is not greasy. Oily skin types may feel hesitant, but there's no need to worry—it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause breakouts. This product is fragrance-free and allergy-tested, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin. For the best results, gently apply the balm and be sure to rinse it off thoroughly with warm water.
Type: Oil-based balm | Size: 3.8 ounces
Final Thoughts
Our top recommendation is Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water due to its minimalist ingredient list and versatile formula that works for all skin types. For those on a budget or in need of a travel-friendly option, we suggest the Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads.
Expert Tips for Shopping for Eye Makeup Removers
Skin Type
Choosing the best eye makeup remover depends on your skin type. If your skin is dry, an oil-based remover is ideal as it helps preserve your skin's natural oils while providing extra hydration. On the other hand, water-based removers work better for oily skin, as they help control the excess oil your skin produces.
For those with combination skin, a bi-phase formula or micellar water is a great choice. These removers combine both oil and water to efficiently cleanse your skin, offering a balanced approach that works well for most skin types. Opt for fragrance-free formulas if you have sensitive skin, as certain fragrances can irritate.
Application Type
The two most common types of eye makeup removers are liquids and wipes. Your choice should depend on the amount of makeup you wear. Wipes are incredibly convenient for quick removal, offering an easy solution when you’re ready to relax after a long day or night.
While wipes are convenient for removing light eye makeup like non-waterproof mascara, primer, and eyeshadow, they may not be as effective for heavier makeup, such as liquid eyeliner, waterproof mascara, or layered eyeshadow. In such cases, you may need multiple wipes, which can test your patience. Additionally, wipes generate more waste, so you might prefer using a liquid or balm makeup remover, which offers better control over the amount of product used.
Ingredients
When selecting an eye makeup remover, it’s important to review the ingredient list. Opt for products with simple ingredients that feature soothing and hydrating elements such as castor oil, peptides, rosewater, aloe, and cucumber. Humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid are also great for adding extra moisture.
Questions You Might Ask
What is the most gentle way to remove eye makeup?
The gentlest and most effective way to remove eye makeup is by using a cotton pad and a gentle sweeping motion. "Hold the cotton pad over your closed eye for 30 seconds to one minute," advises Spickard. "Allow the remover to break down the makeup before gently wiping it away."
The skin around your eyes is very delicate and can easily become irritated with friction. To start, wash your hands to avoid transferring any germs to your eyes. When using a liquid remover, apply it to a cotton pad. Cotton pads are preferable because they provide more surface area for the product, unlike cotton balls, whose fibers might come loose and cause discomfort if they get into your eye.
Be careful not to pull or tug at the skin, as this can lead to lash loss, skin irritation, and premature signs of aging. Spickard also notes that some cleansers may not remove all makeup in one go. If this happens, simply repeat the process until your skin is completely clean.
Which eye makeup removers are best for people with sensitive eyes?
"If you find that your skin is especially sensitive to makeup removers, you can use Vaseline or baby shampoo to help remove eye makeup, as recommended by The American Academy of Ophthalmology," says Spickard.
If you're uncertain, it may help to consult with your dermatologist or ophthalmologist for their expert recommendations. Our list includes dermatologist and ophthalmologist-approved products, such as Shiseido Instant Eye and Lip Makeup Remover and La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover.
Is it safe to use eye makeup remover on your face?
While eye makeup remover can technically be used on your face, we don't recommend it unless your remover is designed to work for both eye and face makeup removal. Many eye makeup removers contain ingredients that could clog pores when applied to larger areas of the face. For a multi-purpose option, consider micellar waters, cleansing oils, or cleansing balms instead of an eye-specific remover.
Take Our Word for It
This article was authored by Grace Parsons, a seasoned beauty industry professional and writer with expertise in cosmetics, skincare, and wellness, alongside writer Rachel Center. Grace spent hours researching various brands and products to identify the best eye makeup removers, focusing on ingredients, formulations, and sizes. She also consulted with makeup artist Kasey Spickard for his expert insights on effective and gentle eye makeup removal.
