The 10 Best Eye Makeup Removers of 2023
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Wearing eye makeup can be very fun—but removing it is another story entirely. Rather than scrubbing your eyes to remove all lingering traces of shadow, liner, or mascara, you should reach for a reliable eye makeup remover that can gently break down cosmetics without irritating your skin.
"The makeup should gently glide off with no harsh pulling to the sensitive skin in the eye area," says Kasey Spickard, a makeup artist.
We researched the top eye makeup removers on the market, considering product type, key ingredients, and prices to compile a list of the best formulas for every skin type. Plus, we spoke with Spickard for his expert insight on the best ways to remove stubborn eye makeup and what to look for in an eye makeup remover.
Best Overall Eye Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
What Stands Out
It's designed to remove makeup from the entire face, not just the eyes.
What Could Be Improved
It may be too hydrating for oily skin types.
The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water removes everything from stubborn mascara to your daily SPF with its gentle yet effective formula. Since it is versatile and optimal for all skin types, this takes our spot for the best overall eye makeup remover.
This formula has the brand's Dermatological Advance Formula that soothes irritation and raises the tolerance threshold of sensitive skin, allowing it to withstand everyday environmental stressors. It is also free from harsh alcohols and uses gentle micellar water to remove every trace of eye makeup. With six sizes available at an affordable price point, the Bioderma Sensibio is a skincare arsenal must-have.
Price at time of publish: From $13
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Micellar water | Sizes: 8.33, 16.7, 16.9, or 28.7 ounces
Best Budget Eye Makeup Remover: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
What Stands Out
A little bit of product goes a long way.
What Could Be Improved
The formula includes alcohol, which might not be suitable for sensitive skin.
The Neutrogena Oil-Free Liquid Eye Makeup Remover is a budget-friendly and efficient formula that gently wipes away eye makeup without leaving behind an oily residue.
We like that the formula includes cucumber and aloe, although individuals with sensitive skin should be cautious as it also contains alcohol. This eye makeup remover is ophthalmologist-tested and dermatologist-developed, making it safe for contact lens wearers.
Price at time of publish: $8
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Cucumber and aloe | Size: 3.8 or 5.5 ounces
Best Splurge Eye Makeup Remover: La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water
What Stands Out
The formula removes makeup while nourishing the skin.
What Could Be Improved
It's expensive, even for a "splurge pick".
While La Mer is renowned for its skincare products, The Cleansing Micellar Water is a hidden gem worth trying. This formula has the brand's Miracle Broth and sea-derived ingredients that dissolve water-resistant cosmetics without tugging, pulling, or rubbing your eyes. These marine compounds also nourish and hydrate the skin without compromising its barrier.
La Mer's Micellar Water is suitable for all skin types, is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens, phthalates, and SLS. It's definitely a luxury product, but it does offer a generous 6.7-ounce product in recyclable packaging, which is more than most other picks on our list.
Price at time of publish: $95
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: "Miracle Broth" (mix of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals) and micellar water | Size: 6.7 ounces
Best Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover: Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover
What Stands Out
The formula is gentle and includes no oils or fragrances.
What Could Be Improved
The dispenser can get a bit messy.
The Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover is our top choice for sensitive skin and eyes, as its effective formula eliminates long-wearing makeup without any oils or fragrances that can leave residue and cause irritation. Key ingredients include aloe, ginseng, and green tea, which hydrate, soothe, and balance the skin. Plus, it contains glycerin for even more moisturizing power, breaking down even extravagant eye looks with just a few swipes.
Price at time of publish: $10
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
What Stands Out
The ingredient list is minimal and gentle.
What Could Be Improved
It can leave behind a slightly oily residue.
The Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover from La-Roche Posay is a reliable choice for effectively removing makeup without unnecessary tugging or pulling, which can exacerbate irritation, under-eye wrinkles, and lash loss. This formula is paraben- and fragrance-free, making it safe for sensitive skin, and it is also dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested.
Poloxamer is the powerhouse ingredient in this formula. It breaks down makeup with minimal effort, making this our favorite pick for eliminating waterproof mascara and liner without irritating your eyes.
Price at time of publish: $21
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Poloxamer | Size: 4.2 ounces
Best Eye Makeup Remover for Mature Skin: Shiseido Essentials Instant Eye & Lip Makeup Remover
What Stands Out
The formula contains xylitol, a renowned moisturizing ingredient.
What Could Be Improved
This pick contains added fragrances.
For mature skin that requires extra hydration, opt for the Shiseido Instant Eye and Lip Makeup Remover, which is dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-approved and contains xylitol to help retain moisture around the eyes and lips.
The distinctive dropper-style packaging prevents any oversaturation of the product, ensuring efficient makeup removal without irritation or redness. Only a small amount is needed to effortlessly wipe away even stubborn mascara, lip stains, and other makeup.
Price at time of publish: $30
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Xylitol | Size: 4.2 ounces
Best Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin: Avene Eau Thermal Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover
What Stands Out
The gel-like consistency hydrates without tugging at the skin.
What Could Be Improved
The packaging could be improved.
The Avene Gentle Eye Makeup Remover combines makeup removal with skin hydration for refreshed and soothed eyes. The formula contains thermal spring water, known for its soothing properties, and sorbitol to help the skin retain moisture. We like that this unique gel-like formula feels weightless on the skin and doesn't leave behind residue, making it an excellent choice for makeup removal when followed by cleansing.
Price at time of publish: $24
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water, sorbitol | Size: 4.2 ounces
Best Hydrating Eye Makeup Remover: Typology Bi-Phase Eye-Makeup Remover
What Stands Out
The formula contains additional nourishing skincare ingredients.
What Could Be Improved
This pick might not be best for oily skin types, as it contains castor oil.
Typology's Bi-Phase Eye-Makeup Remover with 1% Pea Peptides + Castor Oil removes makeup and provides skincare benefits in its multi-function formula.
Castor oil is included for its hydrating and antioxidant properties, while pea peptides strengthen lash cuticles and create lash density over time, according to the brand. Chamomile is also present to soothe sensitive skin, making this pick suitable for sensitive eyes. Plus, this product is cruelty-free, vegan, and 99 percent naturally derived.
Price at time of publish: $24
Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Pea peptide, castor oil, and chamomile | Size: 3.38 ounces
Best Eye Makeup Remover Pads: Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads
What Stands Out
This product is safe to use with contacts on.
What Could Be Improved
This product is less sustainable, as each application creates single-use waste.
Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads offer the convenience and effectiveness of micellar water in ready-to-use pads, making it easy to remove eye makeup after a long day or while on the go. Each container contains 100 saturated cloths that are easy to access, so you can toss it in a purse or overnight bag.
These pads contain glycerin, castor oil, and aloe, which soothe and hydrate the delicate skin around your eyes. They are gentle enough for contact lens wearers and individuals with sensitive skin or eyes, and the formula is non-rinse and leaves no residue, making it a straightforward pick for wiping off the day's eye look.
Price at time of publish: $9
Type: Pads | Key Ingredients: Aloe, castor oil, glycerin | Size: 100 count
Best Eye Makeup Remover Balm: Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
What Stands Out
It's an all-in-one makeup remover that can be used on the entire face.
What Could Be Improved
It's not for people who want a no-rinse option.
This Clinique eye makeup remover is best for people who have dry skin. This product is the more moisturizing (and multifunctional) version of the brand's best-selling Take the Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips as it's designed for full-face makeup removal. In addition to not getting rid of your skin's essential oils, which can happen after applying water-based eye makeup removers, it also contains safflower oil, which is a natural emollient. Emollients work to prevent inflammation and excel at hydrating and smoothing skin because, when applied, they create a barrier that keeps moisture in.
Although a rich balm, this product does not go on greasy. Those with oily skin may instinctively want to back far, far away from this product, but they needn't be worried—it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't cause breakouts. This product is also fragrance-free and has been tested for allergies, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin. After gently applying the balm, make sure to thoroughly rinse the product off with warm water for optimum results.
Price at time of publish: $38
Type: Oil-based balm | Size: 3.8 ounces
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water for its simple ingredient list and versatile formula, which works well for all skin types. For those shopping on a budget or who need a travel-friendly option, consider the Garnier Micellar Eye Makeup Remover Cotton Pads.
How to Shop for Eye Makeup Removers Like a Pro
Skin Type
The best eye makeup remover for you is all dependent on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you'll benefit most from an oil-based eye makeup remover, as this type of remover keeps your skin's essential oils intact and adds additional hydration thanks to its moisturizing properties. On the flip side, water-based eye makeup removers are better for people with oily skin who need a product that will help manage the excess oil their skin produces.
If you sit somewhere in between, go with a bi-phase formula or micellar water. These types of eye makeup removers utilize both oil and water to get rid of your makeup, offering a multi-pronged approach that shouldn't elicit significant reactions in your skin. Fragrance-free formulas are always the best option for people with sensitive skin, as some fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.
Application Type
The two most popular eye makeup remover types are liquids and wipes. Which one you use should be dependent on how much eye makeup you usually wear. Wipes are super convenient because they provide a quick and easy way to remove your eye makeup, which can be a lifesaver when all you want to do at the end of a long day or night is crash in bed.
However, they work best with light eye makeup, such as non-waterproof mascara, a primer, and eye shadow. If you wear heavier eye makeup, such as liquid eyeliner, waterproof mascara, eye shadow, a highlighter, and more, it may take more wipes to get it all off, and test your patience in the process. Plus, wipes result in more waste, so you may decide that a liquid or balm eye makeup remover is better. These types also provide you with more control over how much eye makeup remover you use.
Ingredients
While shopping for your daily eye makeup remover, be sure to check out the ingredient list. We recommend products with minimal ingredients that include hydrating and soothing components like castor oil, peptides, rosewater, aloe, and cucumber, along with humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid for added hydration.
Questions You Might Ask
What is the most gentle way to remove eye makeup?
The simplest and most gentle way to remove eye makeup is with a cotton pad and a gentle sweeping motion. "Hold the cotton pad to the closed eye for 30 seconds to one minute," says makeup artist Kasey Spickard. "You really want to allow the remover to break down the eye makeup."
The skin around your eyes is extremely sensitive, and can become irritated easily when faced with friction. Before you start removing your makeup, make sure to wash your hands to prevent any germs from getting onto your face and eyes. Then, if you're using a liquid, apply your eye makeup remover to a cotton pad. Cotton pads are best because they offer more surface area to apply your remover, as opposed to cotton balls. Also, the strands in cotton balls can come apart and potentially get into your eye if you scrub too hard, which can be very painful.
Avoid pulling or tugging on the skin, which can cause lash loss, skin irritation, and premature signs of aging. Spickard adds that some cleansers might not remove all cosmetics right away. If that's the case, repeat the process until all remaining traces of makeup are gone.
Which eye makeup removers are best for people with sensitive eyes?
"If you find that your skin is particularly 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.
Similarly, you can speak to your dermatologist or ophthalmologist for their recommendations. Our list contains dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested products, including picks like the Shiseido Instant Eye and Lip Makeup Remover and the La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover.
Can you use eye makeup remover on the face?
While you can use eye makeup remover on the entire face, we don't recommend it unless your remover doubles as a general makeup remover. Eye-specific products may contain ingredients that can clog pores on larger areas of the face. If you want a versatile product for your face, look for micellar waters, cleansing oils, or cleansing balms rather than an eye makeup remover.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Samantha Parsons, a beauty industry veteran and writer with experience in the cosmetics, skin, and wellness industries, and Rachel Center, a commerce writer. Samantha researched countless sites and brands to find the top eye makeup removers, considering formulation, key ingredients, and available sizes. She also consulted makeup artist Kasey Spickard for his expert tips on efficiently and gently removing eye makeup.
Related: The 10 Best Makeup Brush Cleaners
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