Makeup removal often feels like a chore. And taking off long-lasting makeup, like waterproof mascara, can be frustrating. But it’s important to remove your makeup fully at the end of the day.
Although we’ve all had those times when we’ve fallen asleep with it on, doing that routinely can lead to clogged pores and other problems.
There are a number of effective and inexpensive ways to leave your face clean and free of buildup at the end of the day. Check out these best 10 ways to remove makeup with these makeup removal solutions. There is bound to be one that will help you save time, and is just right for your complexion.
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1. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
Neutrogena is a long-time favorite with consumers and dermatologists. This company makes quality products that noticeably improve the condition of people’s skin. These soft cleansing towelettes are no different. In clinical tests, they remove over 99% of makeup, including waterproof mascara, with no rinsing needed.
These towelettes were designed with care. They are softer than a typical baby wipe and feel great against the skin. This product has been formulated to dissolve makeup without harsh irritants like alcohol and fragrances. The formula is light and water-based, and will not leave any film or residue on the skin. They are non-comedogenic, and will not clog pores.
This product was formulated to be gentle but effective. It works well on even the most sensitive skin, in the eye area. Even long-wear makeup, like waterproof mascara, comes off easily with these towelettes. This product has been tested by dermatologists and is suitable for sensitive skin. It will not inflame or dry the delicate area around the eyes.
Because this is a one-step system with no water or towels needed, this product is a really convenient choice. It’s a great buy for actors, dancers, stand-ups or anyone who will need to remove heavy stage makeup in an area with limited bathrooms. This would be a great thing to take in your bag to an event like a music festival.
2. Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser, 3.5 oz
Pond’s Cold Cream is a classic product. First released in 1907, this product has stayed on the market because it works so well. It may have well have been the go-to makeup remover for your mother or grandmother.
This is a rich, thick formula that will not only remove your makeup, but also leave your skin moisturized. Using cold cream is far less drying than soap and water type formulas. In some ways, it’s the original 2-in-1, because the Pond’s formula is actually 50% moisturizer. Many users forego a separate moisturizing product.
Cold cream is a great solution for people who work in challenging environments that cause dryness. This product is tested by dermatologists, and is proven to be hypoallergenic. It is non-comedogenic. Not only that, but it will leave your face looking clean and smooth without causing breakouts. This remover is made with a number of classic natural ingredients, including beeswax.
Smooth Pond’s on, then wipe off with a clean tissue or damp washcloth. Using a damp washcloth will provide some exfoliation. You can add moisturizer afterwards, if you decide to. This cold cream is a great and often overlooked value. Sold everywhere, it has been surpassing expectations for generations, now.
3. Clean & Clear Makeup Dissolving Facial Cleansing Wipes
Clean & Clear is well-known for making budget-friendly products that perform very well. These facial cleansing wipes are designed to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oils that build up on the surface skin. They do the job effectively, dissolving these things with ease. These towelettes are recommended for most skin types, including normal, combination, and oily.
With these wipes, Clean & Clear has attacked some common complaints about typical disposable makeup removal cloths. When use near the eyes, they will not irritate contact lens wearers. They are larger than many other cloths on the market, so one cloth covers a lot more area than some other brands.
Before cloths such as this were available, consumers often relied on options like baby wipes. Those could be harsh and drying. Clean & Clear wipes are water-based suitable for people who wear contact lenses. They do contain benzoic acid, so they may not be the best choice for people with sensitive skin.
This product is oil-free and non-comedogenic. The wipes leave users feeling refreshed, with no film or residue left on the skin. Clean & Clear Makeup Dissolving Wipes are effective even with waterproof long-wear makeup products. They are a great choice for young consumers on a budget.
4. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & Makeup Remover for Oily Skin
Garnier is known for bringing innovative European products to a wide audience in the US. Micellar water is a great example of this. This is a great product, designed to be an all-in-one. In just one step it moisturizes and cleanses the skin, while also removing makeup.
Micellar water is a suspension, with oil molecules dispersed in soft water. It works for oily skin for the same reasons the oil cleansing method works. Like dissolves like. The oils in the micellar water bind to and lift away the troublesome oils on the face.
Whether it’s the natural secretions that lead to a shiny t-zone, or the ingredients in your lipstick, SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water will gently lift them away. This product can be used on the whole face. It works well on lips and eyes, eliminating the need for specialty cleaners. In spite of its oil content, this product is non-comedogenic and will not lead to breakouts.
This product is incredibly gentle. It requires very little effort to use. Apply with a cotton ball or round. You won’t need to rub very hard. You don’t even have to rinse after using it. Micellar water leaves skin feeling fresh, supple and soft, with no residues left behind.
5. L’Oreal Paris Clean Artiste
Clean Artiste by L’Oreal is designed to remove long-wearing makeup. Whether it’s full-coverage foundation, or waterproof mascara, this product will make light work of it. It was specifically designed with the challenges of eye makeup in mind.
The eyes are a sensitive area. Unlike some other products, Clean Artiste has been tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists to ensure that it is gentle enough for the delicate skin around them. It is not irritating for people who wear contact lenses. It even contains ingredients designed to condition your lashes.
This product has a great reputation and compares favorably to more expensive department-store brands. It removes long-wearing makeup in one step, with no water needed. It is also surprisingly gentle, with no harsh fragrances added. And it leaves no residue behind.
To use Clean Artiste, soak a cotton ball with the product. Close your eyes, and hold it against the lid. A few extra seconds will help it react with the particles in your mascara and eyeliner. Using this technique will ensure that your makeup is removed completely in just one step.
6. Neutrogena One Step Gentle Cleanser, 5.2 oz
Marketed by Neutrogena as a cleanser, this product is actually a very effective all-in-one skincare solution. One Step Gentle Cleanser cleans the skin, removes makeup, and deposits moisture. It’s great in all of these roles, and that makes it a great value.
Neutrogena One Step Gentle Cleanser has been designed to remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil. It is a thick, rich gel formulation and creates a pleasant foam. It’s incredibly smooth and helps your skin retain moisture without leaving a film behind.
To apply, squeeze a tiny amount into your palm. You may not even need a full pump. Gently massage over wet skin and then rinse away. You will see your makeup going down the drain. And as gross as that might sound, it is also oddly satisfying.
One Step Gentle Cleanser is a perfect product for anyone with a busy lifestyle. This is a great product to throw in your gym bag, or to pack when travelling. Give this all-in-one a try. It is just as effective as a specialized makeup remover, and it can save you a lot of time and money.
7. Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes with Cotton Extract, 30 Count
Burt’s Bees makes a variety of cleansing towelettes for different skin types. Whether you have mature skin, oily skin, or normal skin, they have a product for you. These particular wipes are designed to be used on sensitive skin.
Sensitivity can make it difficult to find a good makeup remover. Some products contain alcohol, harsh fragrances, or acids designed to aid in cleansing. All of these ingredients can inflame the skin of people who struggle with dryness, rosacea, or allergies.
Burt’s Bees is known for creating gentle products that rely on nature-based solutions. This makeup removal formula is no different, with over 99% natural ingredients. It contains a number of plant extracts chosen because they minimize signs of redness and irritation. Cotton extract helps soften the skin, rice extract helps retain moisture, and aloe soothes any irritation. It is free of added fragrances.
This product is very effective at removing make-up, oil, and other buildup. It has been formulated with help from dermatologists and ophthalmologists. It is a great choice for people who struggle with sensitivities to chemical colorants and scents, and for those who prefer natural to man-made solutions.
8. 2 Pk, Maybelline New York Clean Express Makeup Removing Lotion, 4 Fluid Ounce
Made by the beauty experts at Maybelline, Clean Express Makeup Removing Lotion is an incredible value. This product is another all-in-one solution. It does three things for the price of one product. And because of its versatility, it will save you time and counter space, in addition to money.
The lotion formula is unique. Formulated with moringa seed extract, it is loaded with antioxidants. The texture of this product is unusual in that it changes from a lotion to a liquid when it makes contact with your skin. It stores well, but goes on with a smoothness and softness that is truly distinctive
Clean Express cleanses, moisturizes, and removes makeup, all in one step. This is a water-free cleanser. It’s a great solution for times when there might not be a sink right at hand. If you’re often travelling at odd hours, or if you need to remove a full face of makeup before leaving the theater, this product might be just the thing for you.
Apply this product in almost the exact same way that you would use cold cream. Dispense the product into your hand, then apply to your face. Then, wipe your face clean with a tissue. For long-wear makeup, such as waterproof mascara, it is recommended that you leave the product on for about 20 seconds before wiping it away.
9. bareMinerals Obsessed Total Cleansing Oil, 6 Ounce
Made by bareMinerals, this product is a great option for any skin type. BareMinerals is known for its reliance on natural ingredients. This product is no different.Made with a rich array of plant extracts and sea salts, this cleansing oil will help nourish and condition your skin as it removes your makeup.
This product is a great option for more mature skin. It is gentle and formulated to improve your skin’s appearance, and prevent issues in the future. Full of natural extracts that fight redness and signs of aging, this is an excellent makeup remover for people with sensitivity and other skin issues.
The plant extracts used in this formula were chosen with care. Bilberry is loaded with antioxidants and combats free radicals effectively. Borage oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and will help calm any irritation. Cucumber, too, is soothing. Sea salt minerals cleanse the pores very effectively. It is scented with lavender.
This product dissolves makeup with ease and leaves your skin feeling fresh. It comes in a convenient pump, so the natural oils will never oxidize on you. Pump the product onto a cotton round or your fingers. Apply to a dry face. Alternatively, you can add to water. The product will become milky. Apply to a wet face and rinse away.
Obsessed Total Cleansing Oil is a higher price point than some other items on this list, but still compares very favorably with other brands. It is luxuriantly soft and will leave your skin feeling supple. It’s also versatile, in that it can be used in two ways, to better suit the user’s needs.
10. Coconut Oil for Hair & Skin By COCO&CO. Beauty Grade 100% RAW (2oz) Mini Jar
In recent years, coconut oil has become incredibly popular for use on hair, skin, and nails. In addition to all of its other benefits, it’s also an incredibly effective makeup remover. Often, however, people buy low-quality oil that can lead to breakouts. This product is high grade, extra virgin oil, specially sourced for cosmetic use.
Coconut oil has a great texture, scent and feel. It is rich and luxurious. Not only that, but it removes even tough makeup like long-wear lipstick and waterproof eye makeup with very little effort. We recommend that you apply the oil to the eyes first, so that it has extra time to break that makeup down while you smooth it over the rest of your face.
To use coconut oil as a makeup remover, apply some oil to your fingers, a tissue, or a cotton round. Wipe it over your face. You will see instant results. Remove any leftover oil with a tissue, then wash your face normally. Coconut oil is a great solution for people who prefer all-natural skincare. It will help condition your skin, and keep it looking supple.
A little goes a long way with this product, so at 2 ounces, it is a great value. There are no added fragrances or harsh chemical cleansers. This is also the ultimate all-in-one beauty product. It can be used to moisturize hair, as a massage oil, and to moisturize hands. If you are tired of seeing clutter around the bathroom sink, give this product a try.
Conclusion
I hope you found something that works for you on this list of the top 10 best ways to remove makeup. All of these items are not only affordable, but of high quality. Is there one that’s not on the list but should be? Let us know down below. Enjoy!