One of the most important steps in your skincare routine is properly cleansing your face [1] before you head to bed, making sure that every last bit of makeup has been removed from your face. Using one of these best makeup removers will ensure that leftover mascara, foundation, concealer, and more don't clog your pores [2] and create acne. Plus, you won't ruin your expensive silk pillowcases.
There are plenty of makeup removing options to suit your preferences, too. Like a simple wipe-and-go? There are a few great options from Simple and Bliss. Prefer a cleaning balm or oil? Banila Co [3] and Caudalie make excellent options.
Ahead, you'll find the best makeup removers on the market so you can sleep soundly knowing you'll wake up with a clean complexion.
Simple Water Boost Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Pads
If you prefer wipes, the Simple Water Boost Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Pads [4] ($5) will get rid of even the hardest to remove of eye makeup without leaving behind an oily residue.
Banilla Co Clean It Zero Revitalizing Cleansing Balm 3-in-1 Makeup Remover
Melt some of the Banilla Co Clean It Zero Revitalizing Cleansing Balm 3-in-1 Makeup Remover [5] ($18) between your palms and onto your face and watch every last trace of makeup disappear as you rinse it off. Plus, it cleanses and moisturises your skin too.
Almay Longwear & Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover Pads
If you've got really stubborn eye makeup to remove, trust the Almay Longwear & Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover Pads [6] ($4) to get rid of it. Place a pad on your eye for a few seconds and gently wipe away the makeup.
Pixi by Petra Hydrating Milky Makeup Remover
Pump a little of the Pixi by Petra Hydrating Milky Makeup Remover [7] ($24) on a cotton round to remove all traces of foundation and concealer in a pinch. Plus, it's super hydrating so you don't have to worry about stripping your skin.
CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water
Not only will the CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water [8] ($10) remove makeup, but it's also formulated with ceramides to hydrate and plump your skin.
Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water
The soap-free Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water [9] ($28) is a huge time saver. In one step, you can remove your makeup, cleanse your skin, and tone all at once.
Klorane Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Soothing Cornflower
The super delicate Klorane Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Soothing Cornflower [10] ($16) dissolves even the most stubborn makeup and contains conditioners to strengthen your eyelashes.
Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
The Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover [11] ($30) is so gentle, even those who wear contacts can use it safely. Plus, it doesn't leave behind residue like other removers.
Bliss Makeup Melt Oil-Free Makeup Remover Wipes
A single swipe of the Bliss Makeup Melt Oil-Free Makeup Remover Wipes [12] ($3) will eliminate foundation, eye shadow, and more.
Pond's Cold Cream Facial Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
The Pond's Cold Cream Facial Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover [13] ($10) melts into a silky oil when it comes in contact with your skin.
Embryolisse Micellar Water Make-Up Remover
Get rid of dirt, oil, and makeup with the cult-French Embryolisse Micellar Water Make-Up Remover [14] ($15, originally $12). It contains a combination of cornflower, chamomile, and witch hazel to balance the skin.
The Original MakeUp Eraser
Simply run The Original MakeUp Eraser [15] ($20) under water and start gently rubbing it across your face to remove all traces of makeup. Plus, you can toss it in the washing machine when you're done and reuse it.
Bioderma Micelle Solution Sensitive Skin
The Bioderma Micelle Solution Sensitive Skin [16] $15) has been a cult-favourite in French drugstores for years. It removes every last trace of makeup from your skin, even when you thought you've gotten it all off.
Soap & Glory Glamour Clean 5-in-1 Magnetizing Micellar Make Up Remover
The gentle Soap & Glory Glamour Clean 5-in-1 Magnetizing Micellar Make Up Remover [17] ($20) is soap and alcohol free, so even those with sensitive skin can use it.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
When you really can't get off that stubborn mascara, turn to the Neutrogena Oil-Free Gentle Eye Makeup Remover [18] ($6), which will dissolve it in seconds.
Bioré Cleansing Makeup Removing Cloths
You'll love the Bioré Cleansing Makeup Removing Cloths [19] ($8), which gently remove makeup with soft cotton so you won't damage your skin.
Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly Skin Protectant
For getting off seriously bold makeup without causing damage to your delicate skin, try Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly Skin Protectant [20] ($6, for two). It easily takes off mascara, eyeliner, and lipstick while moisturising your skin. (Just make sure you use a regular cleanser afterward to get off the residue before heading off to bed.)
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
Your full-coverage, long-wearing foundation doesn't stand a chance against the Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm [21] ($30). It removes even the most powerful makeup, without leaving behind any residue.