Best makeup removers, according to makeup artists and dermatologists

If you’re someone who regularly wears makeup or is shopping for someone who does, makeup removers are a great investment. “Makeup removers break down and dissolve makeup products for easy removal and cleanse the skin," says Kunal Malik, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology. “They also prepare the skin for other products like moisturizers, serums, etc.”

To find the best makeup removers, I consulted with Malik, another dermatologist and a few professional makeup artists about factors to consider when shopping, including makeup type, skin type and ingredients/solvents.

Our top picks for the best makeup removers

How we selected the best makeup removers

Expert advice

I selected the best makeup removers after interviewing New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman, board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology Kunal Malik, Makeup by Natalie owner and lead makeup artist Natalie Dresher and Charlotte, North Carolina-based professional makeup artist Caitlyn Dominic. During our interviews, I inquired about their makeup remover recommendations in addition to their insights about the considerations to keep in mind regarding skin type, formula and ingredients when shopping for the best makeup removers.

Personal recommendations

Since I’ve been wearing makeup most days of the week for more than 15 years, I’ve had my fair share of experience using makeup removers. That said, I have come to learn which are the best and which should be avoided for a pleasurable — and healthy — makeup removal experience.

Online research

I also conducted online research to supplement the products that these dermatologists and makeup artists recommended. During the research process, I looked at reviews written by real customers in addition to product information.

What to consider when buying a makeup remover

Makeup type

It’s important to consider the type of makeup you intend to remove with the makeup remover you purchase. If you want to remove full coverage, heavier or waterproof makeup, Malik recommends using oil-based products, although be warned that they may clog pores, especially on acne-prone skin. Water-based products can potentially get rid of full-coverage makeup, but this may not be the case every time (Caitlyn Dominic, a professional makeup artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina, does note that micellar water is typically great for removing mascara and other eye makeup products).

Skin type

If you’re trying to remove makeup from oily skin, Debra Jaliman, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, recommends using noncomedogenic products or micellar water and avoiding heavy cream. However, if you’re looking to remove makeup from dry skin, Malik advised using hydrating products that contain glycerin and hyaluronic acid. He adds that those with sensitive skin can benefit from makeup removers made with fragrance-free and gentle formulas with hypoallergenic ingredients.

Ingredients/solvents

Malik recommends looking for makeup removers that contain hydrating ingredients, antioxidants and powerful solvents. “You want effective solvents — micellar technology, Cyclopentasiloxane and isohexadecane are great at removing makeup,” Malik says. He also notes that it’s best practice to shop for makeup remover products made with noncomedogenic formulas. If you’re looking for a makeup remover with additional moisture, Jaliman adds that water, glycerin and ceramides can be beneficial additions, while aloe vera and green tea can reduce inflammation.

When it comes to ingredients to avoid, Malik recommends steering clear of harsh ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, fragrances and alcohol to avoid dermatitis and skin irritation.

What’s the best way to remove waterproof makeup?

According to Malik, the best way to remove waterproof makeup is with oil-based solvents. However, if you’re looking to remove waterproof mascaras, Dresher and Dominic both say micellar waters tend to work well.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What do dermatologists recommend for removing makeup?

Dermatologists recommend different makeup removal products depending on the user’s skin and makeup types. Some makeup removers recommended by the dermatologists we spoke with include micellar water, oil-based cleansing balms and cleansing oils.

What is the most efficient way to remove makeup?

The most efficient way to remove makeup is by using multiple makeup removers. “I recommend double cleansing with either an oil-based cleansing balm or cleansing oil followed by a regular cleanser,” Malik explains. “Micellar water by itself is also an efficient choice but may not be suitable for heavier makeup.”

Is micellar water the best makeup remover?

Although the best makeup remover will depend on factors such as your skin type, ingredients and the kinds of makeup you’re trying to remove, both Jaliman and Dominic note that micellar water is their favorite because it doesn’t clog pores or leave a film on the face.

How often should I use a makeup remover?

Makeup remover should be used after every makeup use. Malik explains that even on days when you don’t wear makeup and only apply sunscreen, using a makeup remover is beneficial to help remove it, on top of any environmental pollutants that contaminate your face throughout the day.