The best makeup remover wipes and cleansers

There’s a surprising amount of us that don’t bother taking our makeup off at the end of the day and we'll let you into a secret… that’s pretty bad for the skin (oops!). While for the many, it’s just a case of forgetting, others really do develop a bad habit, and if that’s the case, it’s probably about time you invest in a decent makeup remover. 

If layers of concealer, foundation, bronzer, blusher and anything else used for the new contouring craze are left on your skin overnight, your pores can’t breathe and as a result, they become clogged up, which eventually leads to spots and oily skin. 

In terms of what to look for; Micellar Water is the new buzz word on the block when it comes to makeup removers. The trick to this magic ingredient is the micelles (cleansing oil molecules) that attract oil and impurities and draw them out of the skin, coupled with soft water, these Micellar water makeup removers aim to leave your skin hydrated as well as dirt-free. However, if you suffer from oily skin, you may want to avoid any products that risk adding extra grease to your complexion. In this case, opting for a classic oil-free makeup wipe may well be your best bet.

Whether you’re getting rid of the glam face after a night out or wiping away the remnants of hard day at work, make sure you invest in the right product for your skin by taking a look at our list of the best 6 makeup removers on the market right now. 

1. Garnier Cleansing Micellar Water

Remove makeup, cleanse and soothe with this product from Garnier

Specifications

Best for: All in one
Type: Cleansing water
Contains oil: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
No need for excessive rubbing
+
Great for sensitive skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Not for oily skin 

Sometimes makeup remover requires half a packet of cotton wool pads before you start to see any significant removal. However this makeup remover for sensitive skin should do a good job of lifting off foundation, lipstick and eye products in just one step. The great thing about the product is it doesn’t require rinsing off - so the whole process of tying back hair and splashing yourself with water is completely avoided.

2. Simple Kind To Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes

A fuss-free way to a fresh face

Specifications

Best for: Sensitive skin
Type: Makeup wipes
Contains oil: No

Reasons to buy

+
Effective makeup remover
+
Double sided for exfoliation

Reasons to avoid

-
Not as economical 

There’s no need to faff around finding cotton wool pads with these wipes from Simple. Unlike our Garnier choice, they’re immediately good to go. Made by Simple, they are great for sensitive skin and even contain added vitamins to help keep skin healthy. A slightly rougher side allows for easy exfoliation, leaving your face in fantastic condition before you catch some kip.

3. Lancôme Bi-Facil

Remove even the toughest of waterproof mascaras

Specifications

Best for: Eye makeup removal
Type: Liquid
Contains oil: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Suitable for all skin types
+
Gently removes tough eye makeup

Reasons to avoid

-
Pocket stretching  

If you’re looking for a makeup remover that does an awesome job of removing even the darkest of eye makeup while remaining gentle to sensitive eyes, then you have come across the right product. In fact, the combination of oil and water is gentle enough for contact lens wearers and promises to leave eyes makeup free and feeling clean.

4. Johnson’s Face Care Makeup Be Gone Moisturising Wipes

Moisturising wipes for dry skin

Specifications

Best for: Moisturising
Type: Wipes
Contains oil: No

Reasons to buy

+
Provides lasting moisture
+
Alcohol and oil free

Reasons to avoid

-
Not for heavy makeup 

Makeup remover products can sometimes be a little harsh on the skin, leaving it tight and dry. However, these wipes by Johnson’s moisturise and remove makeup at the same time, leaving skin fresh and soothed.  What’s really great is the pocket friendly price tag but be careful, as sometimes two wipes are required for particularly heavy makeup, which doesn’t make them as economical as other products on our list.

5. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

An alternative, yet highly effective makeup remover

Specifications

Best for: Non-abrasive application:
Type: Balm
Contains oil: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Easily removes makeup
+
Leaves skin soft with no residue

Reasons to avoid

-
Oily consistency  

While this product requires more of a ritual, it is extremely effective at removing stubborn makeup while leaving skin feeling clean and soothed. As a balm, it can be applied directly with the fingertips all over the face, without the need to reach for a wipe or cotton pad. This makes it a great option for delicate skin, as the abrasive nature of the applicators is completely avoided. It’s also perfume-free, so it’s one for sensitive faces too. 

6. L’Oreal Paris Absolute Make-Up Remover Eye and Lip

Effective for long-lasting and waterproof makeup

Specifications

Best for: Tough makeup removal:
Type: Liquid
Contains oil: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Light-weight cream
+
Not for wrinkle reduction

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricey 

When mascara says it’s waterproof and lipstick says it’s non-transfer, it means it’ll take more than your average face wash to remove. This specialist product has been optimised to remove even the toughest make-up, leaving eyes and lips soft without leaving a greasy residue. As a result, the gentle oils make it suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.