The Best Makeup Removers for All Skin Concerns 2023

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

No harsh scrubbing required.

Have you ever cleansed your face, and then followed up with a toner or essence on a cotton pad and noticed some lingering residue? That's a sign that you could use a makeup remover. (Yes, ideally, a cleanser would be up to the task on its own, but many gentle formulas—which are ideal for skin—aren't made to tackle full-coverage foundation, long-wear lipcolor, or no-flake mascara.)

"Makeup remover is an important step because it ensures all the makeup from the day is gone, and your skin is prepped for skincare," says celebrity makeup artist Sara Talias. The best makeup removers are gentle and easy to use. If you're using an effective formula, you shouldn't have to scrub long or hard. Talias adds that makeup wipes are hit or miss for most people. Not only are they unsustainable but they can irritate the skin as you pull them across your face.

Ahead, shop the best makeup removers. These leave your skin looking and feeling clean, healthy, and happy.

"My go-to makeup remover is Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water because it works so well on all skin types. It's remarkably gentle, but really breaks down any makeup," Talias says.

Another one of Talias's favorite picks, this balm is formulated with moisturizing ingredients, like elderberry oil, and doesn't leave the skin feeling stripped.

This gentle cleanser is great for all skin types and effortlessly removes stubborn makeup without harsh scrubbing. It also leaves your skin feeling soothed and fresh.

Think of this as a cleanser, acne treatment, and makeup remover in one. Formulated with a tri-peel acid blend, the balm helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts from forming while seamlessly removing makeup, dirt, and oils.

There's nothing worse than mascara or eyeliner that refuses to come off no matter how much product you use or how hard you scrub. Luckily, this formula gently whisks away makeup (even waterproof formulas!) without causing irritation.

Meet our go-to oil-free option; it's safe to use around the eyes, affordable, and easily available at the drugstore.

This cleansing balm starts as a solid and then emulsifies into a luxurious oil as you smooth it across your skin. After every use, your skin will feel soft, smooth, and moisturized.

Even though this is an oil, it's gentle enough to use all over your face without causing irritation. On top of offering a deep and effective cleanse, the sunflower oil, extra-virgin olive oil, and clary sage also help increase radiance and maintain the skin barrier.

While it may seem easier to pull off your false eyelashes at the end of a long night, you risk the chance of ruining your natural lashes. Instead, opt for a remover, like this one, which will flick off falsies easily and clean any excess makeup residue, so you can use them again. The formula is also safe to use on lash extensions.

Safe enough for very dry and eczema-prone skin types, this soothing oil cleanses, supports, and protects the skin barrier. You can use it on your face, body, and scalp.

Kalahari Melon, baobab, sunflower, safflower, and castor oils help remove makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin. The cleanser's light, refreshing scent is reminiscent of citrus.

This oil-meets-micellar water is very lightweight and yet still hydrating. Smooth it on and your makeup will slip off, while your complexion is left soft to the touch.

This antibacterial makeup-removing cloth gets rid of makeup, oil, and dirt with just water. It's a great option for sensitive skin types and also helps gently exfoliate the skin.

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

The Most Blendable Sunscreens, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Cleansing Balms That Remove Makeup Easily

The Best Texture Sprays, According to Hairstylists

Dermatologist-Recommended Retinol Creams

The 11 Best Whitening Toothpastes

Dark Spot Correctors That Really Work

What Jessica Alba Does to Her Skin at 42

12 Hair-Thickening Shampoos Worth Trying

12 Best Eye Makeup Removers to Try ASAP

Banish Brassiness with Blue Shampoo

The Best Pimple Patches Worth Trying

The Secret to Healthy, Dewy Skin Just May Be Bugs