13 Best Drugstore Eye Makeup Removers Of 2024
These not only remove the irritating makeup from your eyes but are easy on the pocket too.
Cha Cha WoskaCertified Makeup Artist 
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special even... more
srijita deMA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in ... more
srijani roy chowdhuryMA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a ce... more
madhumati chowdhuryMA (English Literature) Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through... more
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If you know the tricks of taking care of your skin, you must be aware of how important it is to remove your makeup before going to bed. And to remove stubborn eye makeup, you must use only the best drugstore eye makeup remover products for sensitive areas around the eyes. Instead of investing in high-end products, you can buy a good drugstore eye beauty product that suits your skin.
Wearing makeup for long, tiring hours can clog our pores and irritate the skin. While skipping makeup removals for a few days might look like a relaxing thing to do, it can become a nightmare. Removing makeup helps your skin remain safe from breakouts, acne, pimples, large pores, etc. See below for the best makeup artist-approved drugstore eye makeup removers that are gentle and safe for removing facial makeup too. Have a look!
In This Article
Top 13 Drugstore Makeup Removers Of 2024- A Review Guide
1. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Neutrogena Makeup Remover- Cleansing Towelettes
Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes are perfect for mess-free makeup removal. All you need is a pack of these towelettes to ensure you’re going to sleep with no makeup on. This dermatologist-tested makeup remover helps remove eye makeup, including stubborn mascara to give you exceptional results. If a makeup remover can get rid of waterproof products, it can remove any makeup on the face. The towelettes are moist and gentle to effortlessly remove dirt and oil off the face without feeling rough or irritating the skin. When you clean your face with this simple makeup remover, the outcome is a clean and moisturized face. If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient makeup remover, Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes are a must-have in your beauty routine. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product. Reviews on online forums highly praise it for being gentle on the skin and removal of all kinds of waterproof makeup without irritating your sensitive skin.
Pros
- Removes stubborn waterproof mascara
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Doesn’t leave behind any residue
- You don’t have to rinse your face after using these wipes
- Alcohol-free formula
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
- Safe for contact lens wearers
Cons
- May not be fragrance-free
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 5,101 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
2. Best Moisturizing:Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Image: Bioderma Bioderma’s Micellar Water is a great choice for people who have acne-prone skin and look for oil-free makeup removers. It feels light and has a watery consistency without compromising the moisture on your skin after you use it. You can soak cotton pads with Sensibio H2O and use the pads to remove makeup, or even use it as cleansing water. It is infused with the goodness of cucumber extract, which refreshes and soothes the skin to help you achieve exceptional results. While it does a great job at removing facial makeup, you can also use the micellar water eye makeup remover in the morning to clean your face on a busy day before doing your makeup. Take a look at this video to learn more about the product. Reviewers rave about the variants that are available to meet the needs of your specific skin type.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Comes in 3 variants for oily, sensitive, and dehydrated skin
- Physiological pH; prevents the use of harsh water
Cons
- It may take some time to dissolve waterproof mascara.
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 6,914 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Waterproof:Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
If you’re looking for an expertly crafted makeup remover for sensitive skin free from odd ingredients that cause irritation, this micellar cleansing water is what you need. There are only a few makeup removers for acne-prone skin like this one on the market, and it helps make sure you don’t end up breaking out despite cleaning your face before hitting the hay. A few rounds of simple wipes are enough to get rid of the makeup without rubbing or scrubbing. It’s pretty much like cleansing your face with basic water, with the added benefit of micelles that act like a magnet, pulling the dirt and oil off your face. Though it works on waterproof makeup, it feels very gentle on the face and does not leave any oily residue. This cleanser has numerous positive reviews on trusted e-commerce platforms! Watch this YouTuber’s honest review to get a better idea about the product and its features before incorporating it into your daily routine.
Pros
- Works well on waterproof makeup
- Safe to use around the eyes
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and silicone
- Suits all skin types
Cons
- The bottle needs to be shaken between wipes as it separates quickly.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover- Cleansing Towelettes Best Dermatologist-Tested | Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Best Moisturizing | Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water Best Waterproof | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Sensitive | All |
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 4.75 x 4 inches | 2.76 x 2.76 x 8.27 inches | 2.73 x 2.17 x 2.73 inches |
| Weight | 2.47 Ounces | 7.05 Ounces | 13.5 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 5,101 | 6,914 | 29,706 |
| Price | $10.27 | $13.29 | $8.97 |
4. Best Non-Comedogenic:Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Remover
Cetaphil is trusted for its rigorous research in manufacturing skin care products. They collaborate with doctors and healthcare professionals for extensive clinical testing, which makes this expertly crafted product one of the best drugstore eye makeup removers for all types of skin. It has a bi-phase formula that gets activated when shaken, and the activated liquid easily dissolves stubborn makeup. Healthy ingredients like aloe vera, ginseng, and green tea soothe the skin, giving you softer and naturally healthy-looking skin upon regular use. It is non-irritating, hypoallergenic, and proven gentle for sensitive skin. This tested liquid makeup remover is a perfect combination of cleansing agents and botanical ingredients for clean and healthy skin.
Pros
- Formulated with soothing botanicals
- Clinically-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Safe to use around the eye area
Cons
- Needs to be poured carefully because the top has a relatively bigger hole.
5. Best Clinically-Tested:Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
If you’re looking for a clinically tested makeup remover for dry skin, Mary Kay’s oil-free eye makeup remover will work like magic. It is non-comedogenic, which means your pores stay unclogged and clean, unlike many oil-based makeup removers that tend to get trapped inside the pores, increasing the chance of breakouts. This expertly crafted cleanser does not have any perfume, so you don’t have to worry about the product smelling a certain way. It works for both light and heavy makeup. When removing heavy eye makeup, all you have to do is pour a little bit of the product onto cotton balls or pads, place it on your eyes for several seconds, and gently rub them to get rid of the makeup.
Pros- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Clinically tested for allergy and irritation
- Suitable for contact lens wearers
- Does not make your skin feel dry
Cons
- Might make the skin oilier if you already have oily-skin
6. Best Affordable:Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
This expertly crafted drugstore makeup for oily skin does a great job in getting rid of waterproof mascara and heavy eye makeup. When you moisten a tissue or a cotton ball with the remover and press it against your closed eyelids, it acts on the makeup, and after a few seconds, you can wipe your eyelids to remove the makeup. If you have dry skin, you can leave the remover on. However, if not, you can wash it off for an oil-free, clean face. While it is mainly an eye makeup remover, you can also use this affordable makeup remover on your face since the product is gentle.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Gentle on eyes
- Works for waterproof mascara
- Quantity present is adequate and makes it last long
Cons
- You may need to wash your eyes after using the product.
7. Best Oil-Based Formula:Mario Badescu Carnation Eye Makeup Remover Oil
Mario Badescu Carnation Eye Makeup Remover Oil is enriched with the goodness of carnation oil and sesame oil. Here is another eye-friendly makeup remover that is made from a gentle and effective formula that removes all traces of eye makeup without leaving any residue or oiliness. It is infused with a delicate floral fragrance, while its luxurious formula feels ultra-light on the skin, leaving your eyes refreshed, nourished, and radiant. Say goodbye to harsh makeup removers that leave your eyes dry and irritated and use this product to achieve exceptional results.
Pros
- For all skin types
- Removes waterproof makeup
- Effortless
- Gentle
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Avon True Color Eye Makeup Remover Lotion
If you’re looking for a moisturizing makeup remover on a budget, Avon’s True Color Eye Makeup Remover Lotion is worth it. This cream-based eye makeup remover offers a smooth, creamy consistency, and you can use your fingertips to massage the lotion and remove the makeup with a cotton pad or tissue as the makeup starts coming off. You can follow up with your cleanser if you’re not a fan of the moisturizing effect, but if that’s not a problem, you can leave it on. You get a set of 2 bottles at a very reasonable price, which definitely makes it one of the best drugstore waterproof eye makeup removers if you’re not ready for a splurge. Check online reviews for tester’s experience of this product to make an informed decision.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- A little quantity does the job.
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Can be used for foundation as well
Cons
- You might need to wash your face after using it if you have oily skin.
9. Best Ophthalmologist-Tested:L’Oreal Paris Eye Makeup Remover
This dermatologist-tested oil-free drugstore makeup remover feels gentle on the eyes and can be used for the rest of the face alike. It is dermo-expertise product-tested for its mildness and gentleness. It is ideal for people with oily skin that gets extra greasy upon using a product with even a hint of oil. You can also use it when you’re wearing your contact lenses. When you clean your eyes or face with this cleansing water, it will make your face feel fresh and soothe the skin.
Pros
- No greasy residue
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Water-based formula
Cons
- The top of the bottle has a bigger hole, which might result in a spill.
10. Best Hydrating:Almay Eye Makeup Remover Liquid
Almay Eye Makeup Remover Liquid is the perfect solution for removing the toughest eye makeup effortlessly. This tested and expertly crafted refreshing makeup remover offers a mild yet powerful formula that suits contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes. It is a fragrance-free eye makeup remover infused with healing aloe and cucumber extracts to give you exceptional results. The ingredients in the formula help to soothe and nourish the delicate eye area while completely removing waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and other makeup. The dual-phase formula leaves your skin feeling gently nourished.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Suitable for dry skin
- Works well on waterproof makeup
- No added fragrance
- Gentle on the skin
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
None
11. Best For All Skin-Types:CeraVe Eye Makeup Remover
CeraVe Eye Makeup Remover is the ideal solution to remove stubborn waterproof mascara, heavy eyeliner, and other eye makeup in a breeze. This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic tested eye makeup remover is suitable for all skin types. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which strengthen and moisturize the skin’s barrier. It encourages a more youthful, luminous complexion while assisting in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Suits all skin types
- Non-comedogenic
- Hydrating
Cons
- Takes some effort to remove makeup
12. Best Mild Formula:Marcelle Gentle Eye Makeup Remover Pads
Marcelle Gentle Eye Makeup Remover Pads will make your life easier and your skin happier by effectively and gently removing eye makeup. This tested product consists of 85 pads, each of which is enriched with soothing and hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin, which help nourish and protect the delicate skin around the eyes while removing makeup. This product has been examined and approved by ophthalmologists, confirming its safety for usage near the eyes, thereby making it an effective makeup remover for heavy eye makeup. It is a simple and easy way to remove makeup while on the go.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatological and ophthalmological tested
Cons
- Pads may dry out if not stored properly
13. Best Gentle-Formula:Burt’s Bees Eye Makeup Remover Pads
This dermatologist-tested natural eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes has garnered popularity because Burt’s Bees has a reputation for its natural skin care products. These expertly crafted makeup remover pads are shaped such that it is easy to reach the inner corner of the eyes and the under-eyes. These pads are suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers. If you have dry skin, you can use these pads without following it up with facewash. But if you want to eliminate its moisturizing effect, you can either use tissues or wash your face.
Pros
- Offers one-step cleansing
- Gentle-formula
- Moisturizing
- Dermatologist-tested
- Made with FSC-certified fabric
- No added fragrance
- Free of parabens, phthalates, SLS, and petrolatum
Cons
- May need some scrubbing for waterproof mascara
Now that you have a list of the best makeup removers, here’s what you should keep in mind to buy the best one that suits your skin type.
Buying Guide For The Best Makeup Removers
If you’re confused about the many kinds of makeup removers that are all over the shelves at different stores, you’d have many questions in mind. We’re here to help you answer those questions and find a good drugstore eye makeup remover that you can pick with confidence. Read on to find answers to the most common questions about makeup removers.
What Is Micellar Water?
There has been much talk about micellar water in recent years, and many people equate it to a water-based magic potion. Micellar water is a tried and tested all-purpose skin care product that helps remove the makeup and can also be used as a no-rinse cleanser. While what ingredients go into the micellar water is up to each brand, one thing that’s common about this water-based makeup remover is micelles.
u’re on a hunt for the best drugstore eye makeup remover, you’ll easily come across a host of brands that offer effective m
It contains mild surfactants that combine and form micelles that engulf or pull oil and dirt from the skin. This unique formulation makes it an effective dirt and makeup remover. It contains a negligent amount of oil and no alcohol, which is why many people with sensitive or acne-prone skin prefer working with micellar water over other types of makeup removers.
Are Wipes Better Than Liquid Makeup Removers?
While this is mostly a matter of personal preference, it depends on a few factors. If you’re traveling, the fewer things you pack, the better. When you carry a liquid makeup remover, you’ll also have to carry cotton balls or tissues, which demands extra space. Needless to say, it can get messy if it spills. If you are seated at your dressing table, using a liquid makeup remover can be amazing. However, pre-moistened wipes are hassle-free and a travel-friendly alternative.
What Are Oil-Based Makeup Removers?
As the name suggests, oil-based makeup removers contain a certain amount of oil to make it easier to get rid of stubborn makeup. Oil does a great job at dissolving the makeup without leaving any residue. They’re also a better choice if you have dry skin, and products like micellar water worsen the dryness. With an oil-based makeup remover, you won’t have to moisturize your face after using the remover, and it may also nourish your skin depending on the type of oil that’s used in the product.
Removing Makeup During Travel- What’s Most Handy?
Nothing gets as convenient as picking the best drugstore makeup remover wipes when you’re traveling. It again comes down to personal preference, but most of us would want a hassle-free cleaning product that is spill-proof, does not require cleansing face and takes up little space in the bag. And you’re doomed if you forget your tissues or cotton pads when you’re carrying a bottle of makeup remover. So, it is safe to say that wipes make a better travel-companion for removing makeup when you’re out and about.
Why Go For Drugstore Makeup Remover?
Drugstore brands have a product for every person of different skin types, and every need— be it waterproof mascara, cruelty-free lip gloss, sunscreens with high SPF, and just about anything. We trust drugstore makeup and skincare products because most people use them, you can find variety, they’re tried and tested, and they don’t make a hole in our wallets.
So when you’re on a hunt for the best drugstore eye makeup remover, you’ll easily come across a host of brands that offer effective makeup removers for different skin types. Just a note that if you have sensitive skin, it is best to conduct a patch test before committing to using any product.
Infographic: Alternative Uses Of Eye Makeup Removers
Discover the versatility of eye makeup remover beyond its primary purpose. You will be surprised at how this economical product can be used in your day-to-day life. From nail polish removal to stain eradication, learn how to make the most of this beauty essential in the infographic below.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Lasting eye makeup adds drama and intensity to your eyes, but its removal process can become dramatic and intensely traumatizing as well. Unless you have the best drugstore eye makeup removers at your disposal. Our list features products that can remove stubborn mascara and eyeliners in a jiffy. Some of them are specially designed for sensitive skin and can be used as a makeup remover for your entire face. They work well on waterproof makeup and have non-comedogenic formulas. The Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes effectively remove waterproof mascara and do not leave any residue, while the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water moisturizes the skin after a deep cleansing process. Or, you can try the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing If you have acne-prone skin, as It gently cleanses the pores without irritating the skin. However, avoid products that tend to dry out the skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Srijita De, is a makeup enthusiast and shares her recommendations for the best eye makeup removers to add to your cosmetic collection. Using these gentle and safe makeup removers will effectively remove any eye makeup without breaking your bank. She compiled a comprehensive and detailed list of the top products after surveying every product review available online. Ensure the sensitive skin around your eyes is protected from breakouts with these products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove eye makeup for sensitive eyes?
• Wash your hands properly.
• Pour a few drops of the makeup remover into a clean cotton ball.
• Press the cotton balls on the eyelids and keep them on for 10 seconds. The eye makeup will break down eventually.
• Gently swipe the cotton balls downwards and get the makeup off.
• Rinse your eyes properly to eliminate excess makeup from the inner corners.
What is the safest mascara remover?
The Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is the safest mascara remover. This high-quality makeup remover works effectively on waterproof mascara and wipes it off without hassle.
Is baby oil a good eye makeup remover?
Yes. Baby oil helps remove makeup gently and quickly. However, certain ingredients in baby oil can irritate the eyes of people with sensitive skin. Therefore, check the ingredients before using baby oil to remove the makeup.
Can I remove normal mascara with water, or do I have to use eye makeup remover?
Always use an eye makeup remover to remove your mascara. Splashing water is ineffective, and rubbing the lashes constantly with water can trigger allergies.
What is the most gentle way to remove eye makeup?
Soak the cotton balls with a few drops of makeup remover and press them on the eyelids for 10 seconds. Later, massage the lids in soft circular movements to wipe off the makeup gently.
