The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (2023)

While removing makeup is never as fun as applying it, it's still one of the most important steps toyour skin care routine. The best eye makeup removers effectively remove all traces of makeup and also contain ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin.

We researched dozens of eye makeup removers, considering skin type, ingredients, and type of application to find the best options. Our best option isLancôme Bi-Facil Gentle Dual Action Eye Makeup Remover. Made from oil and water, this product is compatible with all skin types and can remove light to heavy makeup, including waterproof mascara.

Read all of our picks for the best eye makeup removers and learn more about choosing the best makeup remover for you.

The best overall eye makeup remover

Lancôme Bi-Facil Dual Action Gentle Oil-Free Makeup Remover

The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (1)

For whom:People who tend to wear a lot of eye makeup (including waterproof makeup) and need a non-irritating remover.

For those who are not:People who are looking for an unscented or cheap eye makeup remover.

This popular Lancome product combines oil and water to create an eye makeup remover that deeply cleanses and hydrates. The use of these two ingredients together, which naturally do not mix, is called a biphasic formula. Think of a biphasic formula as a two-part action plan for getting rid of makeup. More effective at removing heavy makeup, oil removes eye makeup, while water basically washes it away and removes any remaining oily residue. This mixture is so effective that it is considered an excellent waterproof mascara remover.

Since the formula is half oil and half water, it can be used on more skin types than a water-based or oil-based eye makeup remover. People with dry or oily skin, as well as people with normal or combination skin, can use this product. It also works well for people who wear contact lenses. Whatever your skin type, be sure to shake the product well before use so that the two parts mix successfully.

Product Details:

  • Type:biphasic formula
  • Size:4.2 or 6.7 oz

The best drugstore eye makeup remover

Neutrogena Oil-Free Liquid Eye Makeup Remover

The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (2)

For whom:People who have oily skin and people who are looking for an affordable eye makeup remover.

For those who are not:People looking for an oil-based eye makeup remover.

Costing less than $10, Neutrogena Oil-Free Liquid Eye Makeup Remover is a strong makeup remover capable of removing waterproof mascara while still being gentle on the eye area. Plus, it's fragrance-free and contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera extract.

This oil-free eye makeup remover is ideal for those with oily skin that is prone to breakouts. The water in the product removes excess oil that may be clogging pores, and in doing so provides a deep clean that will help prevent future pimples or breakouts. Although this eye makeup remover contains moisturizing ingredients, the lack of oil may not be enough for people with very dry skin. If you decide to use this product, please shake it well before use as this activates all the ingredients.

Product Details:

  • Type:water based
  • Size:5.5 ounces

The best oil-based eye makeup remover

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

4.3

The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (3)

For whom:People with dry or sensitive skin and people who want an all-in-one makeup remover that can be used all over the face.

For those who are not:People who prefer a liquid eye makeup remover.

This Clinique eye makeup remover is best for people who have dry skin. This product is the most moisturizing (and multifunctional) version of the brand's bestsellerTake the Day Off Make-up remover for eyelids, eyelashes and lips. In addition to not stripping essential oils from the skin, which can occur after applying water-based eye make-up removers, it also contains safflower oil, which is a natural emollient. Emollients work to prevent inflammation and are great for hydrating and softening the skin because, when applied, they create a barrier that locks in moisture.

Although it is a rich balm, this product does not feel greasy. Those with oily skin may instinctively want to stay far, far away from this product, but don't worry: It's non-comedogenic, which means it won't cause breakouts. Also, another benefit of safflower oil is that it can help reduce the size of existing pimples and blackheads. This product is also fragrance free and has been allergy tested making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. After gently applying the balm, be sure to rinse the product off thoroughly with lukewarm water for best results.

Product Details:

  • Type:oil based balm
  • Size:3.8 or 6.7 oz

The 10 Best Liquid Eyeliners of 2023

The best eye makeup remover for sensitive skin

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

4.8

The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (4)

For whom:People looking for a gentle eye make-up remover that won't strip the skin's natural oils.

For those who are not:People who frequently wear heavy eye makeup.

micellar water, which originated in France, has become a popular tool forfacial and hair cleansingin the United States in recent years. Micellar water is made up of micelles, which are basically balls of oil that live in the water-based product. The function of these oil balls is to remove dirt and oils found deep within the skin, making them highly effective in removing eye makeup. The oil in the micelles also prevents the skin from drying out after using the product.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Makeup Remover is an effective and inexpensive option that is also alcohol and fragrance free, making it a solid choice for those with sensitive skin. Although this eye makeup remover is advertised as a rinse-off product, experts recommend using an additional facial cleanser to give your pores a deeper clean. The only downside to micellar water is that it's not as good at removing heavy eye makeup, including waterproof mascara.

Product Details:

  • Type:micellar water
  • Size:8.33 or 16.7 oz

The best eye makeup remover wipes

Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Wipes

The 5 best eye makeup removers for every skin type (5)

For whom:People who are often too tired to remove their eye makeup at night.

For those who are not:People who do not want to create additional waste by using single-use make-up removers.

If you often feel too tired to remove your eye makeup at the end of the day, buy some makeup remover wipes. These Cetaphil wipes not only make the eye makeup removal process so much faster and easier, they are also great for removing stubborn eye makeup, including waterproof mascara. These wipes are also ophthalmologist approved to ensure they are safe to use around the eyes.

These Cetaphil wipes are also designed to help with various skin sensitivities including dryness, irritation, tightness, roughness, and a weakened skin barrier. They're made without parabens or fragrances and contain vitamin E, an antioxidant, plus glycerin and aloe vera extract, both of which are moisturizing. Chamomile extract helps relieve inflammation and redness, while green tea extract is particularly good for relieving acne. Also, these wipes can be used for all types of makeup, not just eye makeup. However, there is a big disadvantage:Makeup remover wipes create a huge amount of waste. If you're trying to cut back on single-use products, you should stick with a traditional liquid eye makeup remover.

Product Details:

  • Type:water based wipes
  • Size:25 wipes per pack

RELATED: We found the 5 best makeup remover wipes for your skin and the environment

final verdict

In general, we recommendLancôme Bi-Facil Gentle Dual Action Eye Makeup Removerfor its combination of oil and water that, working together, effectively removes even the heaviest makeup, including waterproof makeup, without drying the skin. It is also compatible with virtually all skin types, including dry and oily skin types.

How to buy eye makeup remover

type of skin

The best eye makeup remover for you depends on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you will benefit more from an oil-based eye make-up remover, as this type of make-up remover keeps the essential oils in your skin intact and provides extra hydration thanks to its moisturizing properties. On the other hand, water-based eye makeup removers are better for people with oily skin who need a product that will help control the excess oil their skin produces.

If you sit somewhere in between, choose a biphasic formula or micellar water. These types of eye makeup removers use oil and water to remove makeup, offering a multifaceted approach that shouldn't trigger significant skin reactions. Fragrance-free formulas are always the best option for those with sensitive skin, as some fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.

type of application

The two most popular types of eye makeup removers are liquid and wipes. Which one you use will depend on how much eye makeup you regularly wear. The wipes are super handy because they provide a quick and easy way to remove eye makeup, which can be a lifesaver when all you want to do at the end of a long day or night is sleep in bed.

However, they work best with light eye makeup like non-waterproof mascara, primer, and eyeshadow. If you wear a lot of eye makeup like liquid eyeliner, waterproof mascara, eye shadow, highlighter, and more, you may need more wipes to remove it all and test your patience in the process. Also, wipes create more waste, so you may decide a liquid makeup remover or balm is better. These guys also give you more control over how much makeup remover you use.

Questions you can ask

What is the best way to remove make-up from the eyes?

The best way to remove make-up from the eyes is gently. The biggest mistake people make when removing their eye makeup isaggressive eye rubbing. The skin around the eyes is extremely sensitive and can be easily irritated by rubbing. Before you start removing your makeup, be sure to wash your hands to prevent germs from getting on your face and eyes. Then, if you're using a liquid, apply the eye makeup remover to a cotton pad. Cotton pads are better because they give you more surface area to apply the remover, unlike cotton balls. Also, the strings of the cotton balls can come loose and come into contact with the eye if rubbed too hard, which can be very painful.

Apply the cotton with eye make-up remover and let it act for about 10 seconds. This allows the product to penetrate, facilitating make-up removal. Then, start rubbing gently in circular motions until the eye makeup is removed. If the cotton side has a lot of makeup on it and you still have more to remove, just use the cleaner side. Then use a cleanser to clean your face without makeup.

What happens when you don't remove your eye makeup before bed?

Not removing your eye makeup before bed is a big no-no. It can cause a number of health problems, some of which may require you to seek medical attention. Reactions can include irritated and red eyes, as well as rashes, infections, styes, and even cysts. If you often feel too tired to go through the proper eye makeup removal process, keep a pack of makeup remover wipes on your nightstand so you can remove your makeup while you're in bed.

take our word

This article was written byRachel Center, a lifelong lover of all things fashion and beauty, and a homegrown product review writer forVery simple. He spent hours researching all the ingredients that make up the best makeup removers, ultimately choosing the products on this list based on ingredients, type of application, and effectiveness.

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FAQs

What do dermatologists recommend to remove eye makeup? ›

Drugstore brand Cetaphil is always popular among dermatologists, and their makeup remover is no exception. Chang recommends it because not only is it “hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin,” but it is extra gentle and lightweight.

What is best to use to remove eye makeup? ›

8 Incredible Eye Makeup Remover Hacks
  1. Step 1: Avocados. I found a lot of recipes for eye makeup remover that called for avocado oil. ...
  2. Step 2: No-Tears Baby Shampoo. ...
  3. Step 3: Hair Conditioner. ...
  4. Step 4: Shortening. ...
  5. Step 5: Petrolum Jelly. ...
  6. Step 6: Grapeseed and Castor Oil. ...
  7. Step 7: Jojoba Oil. ...
  8. Step 8: Vegetable Oil Medley.

What is the best eye make up remover without oil? ›

The Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is our winner. It has a lightweight formula that easily removes all traces of makeup without drying the skin or leaving behind a greasy residue. It's a great option for daily use, and we believe that regardless of your skin type, it's a great choice.

What is best to remove mascara? ›

Using a cleansing oil to remove your makeup is a great solution, especially if the skin around your eyes tends to lack moisture more than the rest of your skin (which it typically does). Cleansing oils work much in the same way that coconut oil does; by sliding your mascara off your lashes.

How can I remove eye makeup without wrinkles? ›

Excessive scrubbing: The skin around your eyes is the most delicate and sensitive skin on your face, and extensive scrubbing motions can cause premature aging and irritation. Instead of scrubbing when removing eye makeup, use gentle circular motions and allow the makeup remover or facial cleanser to do its job.

Is Vaseline a good eye makeup remover? ›

Removes eye makeup

Since Vaseline is petroleum-based, it dissolves almost any kind of makeup gently and simply. And unlike some makeup removers, Vaseline is safe to use around your eye area. It's especially good at removing waterproof mascara.

How do you get mascara off your eyelid without makeup remover? ›

Oil: Olive oil, baby oil, coconut oil, and almond oil are all great natural alternatives to over-the-counter makeup remover. The oil breaks down makeup products and cleanses them away. With your eyes closed, rub a small amount of oil onto your eye area. Rinse with warm water to remove the excess mascara and oil.

How do you remove deep set eyes with makeup? ›

The best way to make your deep set eyes pop is to brighten up your eye area. You can do this by applying a light shadow to your eyelids and blending to make sure there are no harsh lines.

How can I make my eye makeup last all day? ›

Use a dedicated primer for eye makeup.

Primer helps keep foundation, concealer, cream blush, bronzer, and highlighter in place, but a dedicated eye-area primer helps your eye makeup last throughout the day. Use an eye shadow primer before applying eye shadow or other eye makeup.

Is baby shampoo good for removing eye makeup? ›

As a gentle makeup remover

However, since baby shampoos are formulated with numbing chemicals (known as tear-free formulas) to combat eye irritation, you can moisten a cotton ball or swab with a little bit of it to remove your stubborn eye makeup in a pinch.

What is the best mascara that comes off with soap and water? ›

COVERGIRL Professional Remarkable Waterproof Mascara gives you darkened, defined lashes all day without smudging. The smudge-resistant formula goes on smoothly and removes easily with soap and water.

What is the easiest mascara to wash off? ›

Maybelline's Snapscara sounds a little too good to be true. It gives lashes volume but doesn't clump, and it claims to wash off with just water (no makeup remover or hard scrubbing required).

Does CeraVe remove eye makeup? ›

Yes, CeraVe makeup removers can be used to gently break down and eliminate stubborn eye makeup, like waterproof mascara and other longwear eye makeup products—without disrupting your skin barrier or leaving your skin feeling stripped.

Is micellar water good for removing eye makeup? ›

Micellar water, says Garguilo, “is an ideal makeup remover as it gently cleanses and removes makeup from the eyes and face in one step.” It's lightweight and refreshing and the tiny micelles really help to target residue left on your skin.

Can I use Vaseline for eye wrinkles? ›

You simply dab some onto the fragile skin under your eyes each night in place of eye cream to lock in moisture. The added hydration plumps up skin and can help reduce fine lines. As an occlusive product, Vaseline creates a physical barrier that keeps moisture in.

What removes Eyebags wrinkles? ›

Laser resurfacing: This treatment uses a laser to remove surface layers of wrinkly skin in the under-eye area and stimulate new collagen growth, resulting in firmer skin. Results can last years, depending on your skin type and sun exposure.

Is Baby Oil OK to remove eye makeup? ›

Baby oil can remove makeup.

Looking in the mirror only to see long-lasting lipstick and eyeliner staring back at you, even after a triple cleanse? Good news: Baby oil can help. "It can be used as a makeup remover with a cotton ball, without the risk of irritating the sensitive skin around the eyes and face," Dr.

Can I use Vaseline under my eyes before concealer? ›

Not only can you use Vaseline before applying eye shadow, but you can also use the jelly to remove it — and eyeliner and mascara — in one of the gentlest ways available. "It's light and lubricated, so the makeup slides right off without harming the skin," dermatologist Mona Gohara told Allure.

How do you remove makeup naturally? ›

Using a small container, mix equal parts witch hazel and water. Apply the liquid to a cotton ball or round. Then, gently apply it to your face or eyes in circular motions to remove makeup.

What can I use instead of makeup wipes? ›

  • Makeup Wipe Alternative 1: Micellar Water. ...
  • Makeup Wipe Alternative 2: Oil Cleansing. ...
  • Makeup Wipe Alternative 3: Gel Cleanser. ...
  • Makeup Wipe Alternative 4: Cream Cleanser. ...
  • Makeup Wipe Alternative 5: Soap and Water.
Aug 16, 2019

How do you keep your eyelashes from falling out when you remove mascara? ›

How To Remove Mascara Without Losing Your Lashes
  1. Stay Away From Waterproof Mascara Formulas. ...
  2. Rinse With Water. ...
  3. Then Use Remover. ...
  4. Opt For Cheaper, Better Removers. ...
  5. Or Try A DIY Recipe. ...
  6. Pat Your Skin Dry. ...
  7. Pick Up Any Dirt Left Behind.
Jul 31, 2015

How do you remove mascara naturally? ›

Coconut oil removes waterproof mascara the same way olive oil does — just slather it on until you look like a clown, then wipe it off. (Almond oil also works similarly to coconut oil for removing mascara too!)

What is the difference between deep set and hooded eyes? ›

Both hooded and deep set eyes have the common feature that the brow bone or fold hangs over the lid or is visibly prominent, but the way you can tell if yours are deep set is when you stare directly into the mirror you can still see your entire eyelid, from the inner corner to the outer, nothing is covered.

Do eyes become more deep set as you age? ›

As the body ages, it tends to lose collagen. The first place where collagen loss is most noticeable is the skin under the eyes. The loss of collagen causes the eyes to settle back into the eye sockets, making the eyes appear sunken.

How can I make my hollow eyes look better? ›

The most common treatment for under eye hollowness is the use of a cosmetic hyaluronic acid filler such as Restylane or Juvederm to restore volume under the eyes. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, so these fillers are generally hypoallergenic.

Do you put foundation on your eyelids? ›

Never put concealer or foundation on your eyelids as a base, it will cause your eye makeup to crease.

What happens when you stop wearing eye makeup? ›

Dr. Kihiczak agrees, stating that if you forego mascara for a month, you'll be stopping the irritation and rubbing, where less lashes will fall out and the density of the lashes can normalize—your lashes will appear to be thicker.

What is the best baby shampoo to remove eye makeup? ›

Try California Baby Shampoo & Body Wash (http://www.californiababy.com/super-sensitive-shampoo-bodywash-8-5-oz.html). Another super simple, wallet-friendly solution is coconut oil. Moisten a cotton ball or swab with the yummy-smelling solution, and gently swipe away your makeup.

Can you use Dove soap to remove eye makeup? ›

A simple soap, like Dove, is the best kept secret.

Try using Dove soap as your face wash to remove your makeup. When you pop into the shower (because we seriously hope you shower at some point), use the original, unscented bar soap to keep your face feeling soft and smooth as a baby's bottom.

Are baby wipes safe for eye makeup remover? ›

Baby Wipes can remove makeup, for sure, due to their wet condition. However, since they are not built to dissolve makeup, they may leave traces that can clog the skin and cause a breakout; this is especially true if you love wearing waterproof or long- wearing makeup.

Do you really need a makeup remover? ›

Makeup removal should be part of your daily skin care ritual because it is good for your skin. Here are the specific benefits: It washes away cosmetics , impurities and dirt from the surface of your skin, which could lead to irritation or cause your skin to age more rapidly.

Do you take bra off at dermatologist? ›

Like with any other physical, your dermatologist will be super thorough as they exam your body, from head to toe. Dr. Awadalla explains, “When someone goes for a skin cancer screening, they will be asked to remove their clothing, leaving their bra and underwear on, and get into a gown.

What mascara does Julia Roberts use? ›

Well, consider that found because this celeb-approved mascara will take the spotlight in your makeup bag. Julia Roberts swears by the Lancôme Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara to put on the finishing touches.

What mascara does Kim Kardashian use? ›

Kim stated her favourite mascara isn't a diamond-infused formula – it's L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black, Kim Kardashian and her makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic swear by it. This mascara is uniquely formulated to resist clumping, soften and build eyelashes up to four times their natural thickness.

What removes waterproof mascara the best? ›

how to remove waterproof mascara
  • apply micellar water to a cotton pad. ...
  • place cotton pads on closed eyes. ...
  • lightly massage the pads onto the eyes. ...
  • wipe down using the opposite side of the cotton pad. ...
  • rinse & condition.

How can I look pretty without mascara? ›

2) "Opt for long-wearing eyeliner or really thin liquid liner to make the base of lashes appear thicker," says celebrity makeup artist Nick Barose, who recommends black for brunettes and chocolate brown for blondes and redheads. "Dot it along the lash lines and line the top, then blur it out with cotton swabs."

Should you wash off mascara at night? ›

Leaving your eye makeup on overnight can lead to eye infection and irritation. Just as bad, a stye can form from mascara clogging glands connected to your eyelashes. Your eyelids are extremely thin and sensitive, so make sure to treat them with care. The bottom line is removing your makeup is very important.

What mascara does not damage your eyelashes? ›

Our best overall pick is ILIA Beauty Limitless Lashes Mascara. It has a double-sided brush to give both volume and length, and its formula contains nourishing ingredients that strengthen your lashes.

Should you use Vaseline to remove eye makeup? ›

Removes eye makeup

Since Vaseline is petroleum-based, it dissolves almost any kind of makeup gently and simply. And unlike some makeup removers, Vaseline is safe to use around your eye area. It's especially good at removing waterproof mascara.

How do dermatologists treat under eye bags? ›

Your practitioner will use a pencil to mark the area under your eyes (but don't worry, it comes off!). Then they'll apply a numbing cream, give it a few minutes to set, and then get to work! They'll carefully inject the filler just below your skin and use a finger to gently smooth it into place.

What can I use instead of eye primer? ›

WHAT CAN BE USED IN PLACE OF EYESHADOW PRIMER? The best news is, there's no need to buy another product. Concealer works just as well as any store-bought eyeshadow primer. You want a light, liquid concealer that smooths on lids easily, but isn't too moist.

Can you use aquaphor to remove eye makeup? ›

It's a moisturizing makeup remover.

That's why I use Aquaphor (applied to a cotton swab) to fix mistakes made with liquid eyeliner. Aquaphor removes the makeup while moisturizing at the same time, so there's no need for tears.

What does putting Vaseline on your eyeballs do? ›

Applying Vaseline® Jelly under eyes is a tried-and-tested way to lock in moisture, keeping skin in the eye area soft and elastic, and rejuvenating skin that looks dry and tired.

What deficiency causes under eye bags? ›

Dark circles under the eyes may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia . In those cases, an iron supplement may be helpful to normalize blood levels.

What is the best procedure for under eye wrinkles 2022? ›

Blepharoplasty. A blepharoplasty is a quick, simple and safe surgical procedure for reducing drooping around the eyes, tightening any folds and creases in both the lower and upper eyelids and lifting the skin around the eyes.

What causes large bags under eyes? ›

Bags under eyes are caused when the tissue structures and muscles supporting your eyelids weaken. The skin may start to sag, and fat that's usually around the eye can move into the area below your eyes. Also, the space below your eyes can gather fluid, making the area look puffy or swollen.

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