Best Make-Up Removers of 2025

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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Make-up removers are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a clean complexion. They are specially formulated to remove all traces of make-up, including waterproof mascara and long-lasting lipsticks, without drying or irritating the skin. Make-up removers come in various forms such as liquids, creams, wipes and balms, each with their own unique benefits. Using a make-up remover before cleansing helps to ensure that all impurities are removed from the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. There are a wide range of make-up removers available on the market, each designed to suit different skin types and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water for All Skin Types Cover #TOP 1
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water for All Skin Types
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Biotin Cover #TOP 2
NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Biotin
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Garnier Skin Active 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover Cover #TOP 3
Garnier Skin Active 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Make-Up Removers

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water for All Skin Types

3600541358461
Original
400 ml (Pack of 1)
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water for All Skin Types Cover
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water, Gentle face Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Fragrance-Free, Vegan Formula, Suitable For All Skin Types, Even Sensitive, Skin Active, 400ml

The Garnier Micellar Water is a gentle cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, SPF, and pollution from your skin. With its innovative micelle technology, it can eliminate up to 100% of your makeup in just one simple step, making your cleansing routine quick and effortless. The fragrance-free and vegan formula is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive, ensuring a safe experience. Additionally, the product is enriched with botanical glycerin, providing hydration and nourishment to leave your skin feeling soothed and refreshed.

What We Like
Effective makeup removal
Suitable for sensitive skin
Hydrating and nourishing formula
Fragrance-free and vegan
Environmentally friendly packaging
#TOP 2

NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Biotin

3884368
Blue
125 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover with Biotin Cover
NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover (125ml), Daily Use Face Cleanser for Make-Up and Mascara with Cornflower Extract and Biotin

NIVEA Waterproof Eye Remover is designed to effortlessly eliminate even the most stubborn waterproof eye make-up and mascara without the need for rinsing. Its caring formula protects your eyelashes while ensuring no oily residue is left behind, making it perfect for daily use. Enriched with Biotin B7 vitamins, this remover provides a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. Simply shake well and use a soaked cotton pad to wipe away make-up, leaving your skin refreshed and clean.

What We Like
Effective waterproof make-up removal
Protects eyelashes during cleansing
Gentle formula with Biotin
No oily residue left
Suitable for all skin types

Garnier Skin Active 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover

3600541361232
125 ml (Pack of 1)
Garnier Skin Active 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover Cover
Garnier Skin Active 2 in1 Eye Make Up Remover, Suitable For Waterproof Makeup, Gentle On Eyes and Eyelashes, Use With Reusable Micellar Eco Pads, 125 ml

The Garnier Eye Makeup Remover effectively removes stubborn eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and eyeliner, without the need for harsh rubbing. Its caring formula, enriched with natural Arginine, nourishes your eyelashes, ensuring they stay healthy. This vegan and dermatologically tested solution is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive ones. To minimise daily waste, pair it with Garnier's Micellar Reusable Eco Pads, which can be washed up to 1000 times, making it an eco-friendly choice for your beauty routine.

What We Like
Effectively removes waterproof makeup
Nourishes eyelashes
Vegan and cruelty-free
Suitable for sensitive skin
Reduces daily waste

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm with Hyaluronic Acid

59910
Clear
Original
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm with Hyaluronic Acid Cover
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm, Face Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Infused with Hyaluronic Acid to Hydrate Skin, 2 Oz

The e.l.f. Cleansing Balm is a nourishing makeup remover that effortlessly melts away makeup. Its solid formula transforms into a luxurious oil, which then becomes a nourishing milk that rinses clean. Infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, this balm hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth and plumped. Suitable for all skin types, it helps ensure a thorough cleanse, especially when used in a double cleansing routine with your favourite e.l.f. cleanser.

What We Like
Effective makeup removal
Hydrates and smooths skin
Suitable for all skin types
Contains skin-loving ingredients
Cruelty-free and vegan
#TOP 5

NIVEA Micellar Water with Vitamin C

Clear
400 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Micellar Water with Vitamin C Cover
NIVEA Micellar Water Energising (400ml), Micellar Cleansing Water with Amino Acid Complex + Vitamin C, Vitamin B3 and Cranberry Extract, Effective Make-Up Remover

NIVEA Micellar Water offers an energising formula that effectively removes make-up, dirt, and impurities without the need for rubbing, making it ideal for gentle cleansing. Enriched with cleansing Micelles and amino acids, it hydrates and revitalises your skin while leaving no residue behind. Being perfume-free, it is safe for use on your face, eyes, and lips. With just a simple wipe using a cotton pad, you can dissolve make-up and enjoy refreshed skin without rinsing, providing you with a quick and convenient cleansing experience.

What We Like
Effective make-up removal
Gentle on all skin types
Hydrates and revitalises skin
Perfume-free for sensitive users
#TOP 6

NIVEA Waterproof Eye Make Up Remover Radiance

Pink
125 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Waterproof Eye Make Up Remover Radiance Cover
NIVEA Waterproof Eye Make Up Remover Radiance 125ml

NIVEA Eye Make Up Remover is designed to effectively remove even the most stubborn waterproof make-up and mascara. This product cares for the sensitive skin around your eyes, ensuring a gentle cleanse. With its anti-fatigue formula, it helps reduce signs of tired skin, leaving you with a radiant and healthy glow. Simply shake well and wipe over your face and eye area with a soaked cotton pad, making it a convenient choice as no rubbing is required.

What We Like
Removes stubborn waterproof make-up
Gentle on sensitive skin
Reduces signs of fatigue
Easy application process
No need for rinsing

e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Makeup Remover

57548
Clear
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Makeup Remover Cover
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! e.l.f. Off Makeup Remover, Liquid Makeup Remover For Eye, Lip & Face Makeup, Gentle Formula, Vegan & Cruelty-free

The e.l.f. Makeup Remover is a non-greasy liquid solution designed to effortlessly remove stubborn makeup, including waterproof products, without any harsh rubbing or tugging. This gentle formula is perfect for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers, allowing you to cleanse your eyes, lips, and face without irritation. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it not only cleanses but also conditions your skin, leaving it feeling soothed. Suitable for all skin types, this product is a convenient choice for maintaining a clean and refreshed complexion.

What We Like
Non-greasy formula
Gentle on sensitive skin
Contains skin-loving ingredients
Suitable for all skin types
Cruelty-free and vegan

L'Oreal Paris Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover for Sensitive Eyes

5011408014341
125 ml (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover for Sensitive Eyes Cover
L'Oreal Paris Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover for Sensitive Eyes 125 ml

The L'Oreal Gentle Eye Remover is designed to gently and effectively remove eye make-up, making it ideal for those with sensitive eyes. Enriched with pro-vitamin, it not only cleanses but also nourishes your delicate skin around the eyes. This product has been tested under ophthalmological control, ensuring safety and comfort during use. Its easy-to-use formula allows you to effortlessly wipe away make-up, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and clean.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive eyes
Enriched with pro-vitamin
Ophthalmologically tested
Easy to use

Garnier Soothing 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover

100881562
white
200 ml (Pack of 1)
Garnier Soothing 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover Cover
Garnier Soothing 2 in 1 Eye Makeup Remover 200ml

The Garnier Eye Makeup Remover is designed to gently remove eye makeup with ease. Enhanced with plant extract and Pro-vitamin B5, it nourishes your skin while cleansing. The formula is free from perfume and alcohol, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As a bi-phase product, it combines makeup removing oils and cleansing water, ensuring effective removal without irritation. This dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested solution provides a soothing experience for your delicate eye area.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Bi-phase formula for effective cleansing
No perfume or alcohol
Enriched with plant extract
Dermatologically tested

Garnier Micellar Gel Face Wash for Sensitive Skin

3600542011167
WHITE
200 ml (Pack of 1)
Garnier Micellar Gel Face Wash for Sensitive Skin Cover
Garnier Micellar Gel Face Wash For Sensitive Skin 200ml, Gentle Face Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Recognised By The British Skin Foundation, Rinse-Off, Non-Drying & Fragrance Free Formula

The Garnier Micellar Gel Face Wash is designed for sensitive skin, offering a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. With its micelle technology, it efficiently removes make-up, dirt, and impurities, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. The fragrance-free formula ensures a soothing cleanse without causing irritation or discomfort. Additionally, this vegan and dermatologist-tested gel is suitable for all skin types, providing peace of mind for those with sensitivities. You can enjoy a deep clean without the worry of harsh ingredients.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective make-up removal
Fragrance-free formula
Vegan and cruelty-free
Made from recycled plastic
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What to use to remove make up?

Soap and water works better than makeup wipes. Wipes can be an excellent initial step in removing makeup—in fact, they're best used to remove makeup before cleansing.

2. What is the best make up remover for skin?

Best Makeup Remover Wipes. Makeup by Mario Gentle Makeup Remover Wipes (25-Pack), $15.Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes (25-Pack), $4.99-8.47.C'est Moi Gentle Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes, $10.Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm, $34.Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm, $34.

3. Is Makeup Remover good for your face?

Not only do they lead to tugging of the skin, they don't do the best job of removing all your makeup effectively. "If you have very oily or acne-prone skin, using a wipe could contribute to clogged pores and acne breakouts," adds Hadley King, MD, board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

Editor's Notes

During our make-up remover research, we found 250 make-up remover products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 232,775 customer reviews through our big data system to write the make-up removers list. We found that most customers choose make-up removers with an average price of £4.23.

The make-up removers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of make-up removers, including Garnier, NIVEA, e.l.f..

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.