The delicate skin around your eyes is super thin, which makes it especially prone to irritation. When you’re removing eye makeup, it’s crucial to use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or irritants. In addition, it’s important to always scrub gently—not too hard or too long, as this can damage your skin and cause fine lines. The good news is that there are plenty of safe, effective options on the market. The key is to find one that works for you and your skin type. The best lip and eye makeup remover are formulated to be oil-free and gentle on the skin, as well as non-drying and soothing, so they won’t strip your natural moisture.
The best makeup removers will also be gentle on any lash extensions you may have, since it won’t hurt the adhesive. You should also avoid any products with harsh fragrances, as this can irritate the sensitive skin around your eyes and lips. When using makeup remover, it’s recommended to wash your hands to prevent germs from getting into your eyes, and then apply a small amount of the product to a cotton pad or reusable wipe. Make sure to let it sit on the area for a minute or two before wiping, so that it has time to break down the makeup and dissolve it.
If you prefer liquid cleansers, we recommend this ultra-gentle makeup remover from drugstore favorite Cetaphil. It’s hypoallergenic and contains soothing botanicals like aloe and green tea, which makes it an ideal option for those with sensitive skin. It’s also oil-free, so it won’t irritate your eyelashes or the surrounding skin.
We’re also big fans of this hydrating micellar water from Vichy, which is infused with glycerin and a soft scent that testers found pleasant. It was the top-performing cleanser in GH Beauty Lab’s tests, and 100% of testers agreed that it made their skin feel smooth and refreshed. It’s the most effective product for removing lipstick, too.
Lastly, this calming mist from Avene is perfect for those who prefer a quick and easy makeup remover method. Simply spray liberally on a pair of cotton pads, then place them over your eyes to soak up the soothing solution and help remove any leftover makeup residue from the eye area.
This nourishing eyelash serum is specially formulated to keep your natural lashes and lash extensions in tip-top shape. It’s lightweight, oil-free and infused with antioxidant-rich plant oils like sunflower seed oil and shea butter to soothe the delicate skin around your eyes.
This ultra-hydrating cleanser is the ultimate multitasker—it doubles as a serum to hydrate and nourish your lashes and lips while you remove your makeup. It’s formulated with peptides to boost collagen and hyaluronic acid to promote firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Plus, it’s enriched with vitamin E to protect against environmental stressors and free radical damage. It’s the most effective formula in our tests for preventing aging, and it’s noncomedogenic, which means that it won’t clog pores.