11 Best Expert-Approved Eye Makeup Removers Of 2024, As Per A Makeup Expert

Safe, gentle, and effective eye makeup removers that don’t leave any trace behind.

Reviewed by Tina Tempest, Makeup Artist & Hairstylist
Written by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Edited by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Shatabdi Bhattacharya, BSc  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

If you adore eye makeup but dread taking it off, you must get your hands on the best eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes. While most eye makeup removers are made with gentle ingredients, there are few particularly tested non-irritating, alcohol-free products for sensitive eyes. Unlike most cleansing oils, they are free of mineral oils and do not leave an oily residue. Even though oil-based makeup removers are best suited for those with dry skin and effectively remove stubborn makeup like waterproof mascaras, they are not recommended for sensitive skin. The gentle makeup removal formulas are marked safe, certified by ophthalmologists and dermatologists, and free of any fragrance or possible irritants. Those with sensitive skin might as well look for expertly crafted eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes to remove stubborn makeup, because excessive scrubbing may prove abrasive to the delicate skin around your eyes and lashes. You may also opt for washable or easily removable eye makeup instead of the long-wear and thick waterproof ones. To help you choose, we have shortlisted some of the best eye makeup removers that are effective yet gentle enough for your sensitive eyes.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Non Greasy:Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best For Gentle:Almay Makeup-free ZonePrice on Amazon
Best Vegan:Beauty By Earth Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Waterproof:La Roche-posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Affordable:Rimmel London Just Let It Go Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best For All Skin Types:L'Oreal Clean Artiste Oil-Free Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Travel Size:Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Fragrance Free:La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Ph Balance:Klorane Eye Make-up RemoverPrice on Amazon
Best Oil - Based:Lancome Bi FacilPrice on Amazon

11 Best Eye Makeup Removers For Sensitive Eyes To Use In 2024

1. Best Non Greasy:Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup Remover

4.4
Best Paraben Free Cosmetics - Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Image: Neutrogena

As the name suggests, this makeup removal solution is oil-free and is a great product for people who hate to deal with oily leftovers on the skin. Infused with aloe and cucumber extracts, the product is very relaxing and nourishes the delicate eye area. It offers deep cleaning benefits and doesn’t irritate the skin, especially around the eyes. The scent is very light and is probably the best for those who get easily annoyed by strong fragrances. One thing about this makeup remover that will make you really happy is its non-greasy feel, which is quite rare to find. People who wear contact lenses can opt for this liquid eye makeup remover which is specifically ideal for sensitive eyes.

Pros

  • Gentle formula
  • Light for skin
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Gives a refreshing feel

Cons

  • Needs to be wiped off with water

protip_icon Quick Tip
Avoid using a washcloth with your remover as it leaves behind residue.

2. Best For Gentle:Almay Makeup-free Zone

4.5

These eye makeup remover pads are loaded with effective makeup remover to give you clean eyes without any pulling and tugging, even for heavy makeup. With a perfect botanical fusion of green tea, aloe and cucumber, these unique eye makeup remover pads are super gentle on the skin. Not only are these useful in cleansing makeup but are also great for calming down the skin with their super soothing herbal blend. It has no harsh additives. Perfect for sensitive skin, these soft circular pads pull off eye makeup like an eraser without making the skin greasy. This product is not tested on animals, which also makes it a good fur-friendly option for all.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Travel-friendly
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Hypoallergenic formula

Cons

  • Does not have any fragrance

protip_icon Quick Tip
Apply the makeup remover product on soaked cotton balls or pads and let it sit on the lids and under eye area for 15 seconds before swiping off.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 4,485 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

3. Best Vegan:Beauty By Earth Makeup Remover

4
Makeup Remover - with Organic Aloe Vera & Witch Hazel, Use with Eye Makeup Remover Wipes or Cotton Pads, Gentle Non-Greasy Makeup Remover for Dry, Oily and Sensitive Skin Types? 4.7 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Image: Beauty By Earth

This simple makeup remover is very effective for cleaning eye makeup. Other than eye makeup, you get to remove sweat, oil, dirt, and any kind of buildup off the face. With no harsh ingredients, this double-action makeup remover is gentle on the skin and keeps a good oil balance in the skin. Beauty by earth makeup remover is paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. It contains concentrated makeup-removing ingredients like sweet orange essential oil that is hydrating in nature and keeps the skin free from any sort of heaviness. This product is a perfect choice for effective eye makeup removal. It is also a good fur-friendly option as the brand does not conduct any animal testing for product development.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Free from mineral oils
  • High quality ingredients
  • Makes skin fresh

Cons

  • Slightly dries out the skin

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 979 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup Remover
Almay Makeup-free Zone
Beauty By Earth Makeup Remover
Skin Type Sensitive- All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal
Dimensions 1.89 x 1.89 x 5.59 inches 2.75 x 5.5 x 4 inches 2 x 2 x 3.85 inches
Weight 0.02 Ounces 8.8 Ounces 4.94 Ounces
Color- white-
Rating
Reviews19,8624,485979
Price$1485$6.14$32.99

4. Best Waterproof:La Roche-posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

4.6
La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover Image: La Roche-posay


This gentle waterproof makeup remover contains a bi-phase formula of water-based cleanser and oils that work astonishingly well for sensitive skin. It is one of the best eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes and is good at removing makeup instantly and effectively. It effectively removes waterproof & long-wearing eye makeup. It contains poloxamer which is a mild cleanser used in contact lenses. The dermatologist-tested formula works perfectly well and can be used in combination with a cleanser or by itself. Without indulging in rubbing or irritating the eyes, you can gently wipe off all your waterproof makeup with this remover for healthy-looking skin. La Roche-Posay waterproof eye makeup remover is perfect for normal and sensitive skin and helps get smooth skin. You just need to shake the product, apply it to a cotton pad and gently wipe across your face and eyes which easily removes eye and face makeup.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Artificial fragrance-free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Ophthalmologist-tested

Cons

  • Might be slightly oily for some

5. Best Affordable:Rimmel London Just Let It Go Eye Makeup Remover

4.3
Rimmel London Just Let It Go Eye Makeup Remover Image: Rimmel London

When looking for a fab go-to eye makeup remover that you can use regularly, this has to be your first choice. It cleans up line and stray mascara amazingly well without causing any discomfort or harm to the outer skin layer. With a cotton swab, it cleans up the face in a beautiful way. With no irritations at all, it is a suitable eye makeup remover for sensitive skin. The product gets high ratings for its effectiveness, pocket-friendly price and great packaging. You just need to place a cotton swab on the bottle and flip it to get the swab covered in makeup remover. Use the damp cotton swab across your eyes, and you get squeaky clean eyes. The brand does not test on animals, which makes this a good choice for ethically conscious consumers.

Pros

  • No irritation
  • Has no smell
  • Gentle formula
  • Greaseless formula

Cons

  • Might not suit sensitive skin

6. Best For All Skin Types:L’Oreal Clean Artiste Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

4.2
L'Oreal Clean Artiste Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Image: L’oréal Paris

The L’Oreal Clean Artiste Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is perfect for waterproof & long-wearing eye makeup removal without leaving any greasy residue. This liquid formula by L’Oreal refreshes your delicate eye area while cleaning it thoroughly. The makeup remover is loaded with high-quality ingredients that ensure to tackle all types of makeup, dirt, excess oil, and greasiness without irritating the skin or damaging the outer skin layer. It won’t dry out the eye area like other eye makeup removers. This oil-free option is very easy to use and also safer for contact lens wearers. This dermatologist-tested formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive eyes. Just close your eyes, sweep a cotton ball or pad over your closed eyelids and lashes, and your makeup will vanish in just seconds. This product also has multiple positive reviews on Amazon for delivering residue-free freshness to the skin.

Pros

  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Oil-free
  • Refreshes the eye area
  • Non-drying
  • Gentle formula
  • For all types of skin
  • No greasy residue

Cons

  • Bit expensive

7. Best Travel Size:Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

Sephora waterproof eye makeup remover is a top-notch vitamin-infused makeup remover with relaxing properties. It instantly lifts off the eye makeup from the skin and leaves the skin fresh. With an effective formula of cornflower extract and pro vitamin B5, this eye makeup remover keeps your skin and eyelashes protected. It works fast and easy,  just like a magic potion. It is most suitable for contact-lens wearers or people with super sensitive eyes. The two-phase liquid formula removes waterproof makeup without any skin irritations and offers exceptional results. The best part is that it is available in many packaging formats, classic or mini, for everyday or travel use.

Pros

  • No greasy effect
  • Has soothing properties
  • Ophthalmologically tested formula
  • No sulfates and parabens

Cons

  • A lot of product is required

8. Best Fragrance Free:La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

4.6
La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover Image: La Roche-posay

The La Roche-Psay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover is highly effective at eye makeup removal that instantly and effectively removes makeup without irritating sensitive eyes. It is one of the best eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes and is good at removing makeup instantly and effectively. It allows you gently remove all the face and eye makeup without irritating the skin and is ultra-gentle for sensitive skin. This product works well on all kinds of makeup, including waterproof liner, flaky mascara, and shadow. You can remove your makeup quickly and easily without pulling or rubbing and get skin that looks healthy with a gentle feel.

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • No residue
  • Non-greasy
  • Gentle for sensitive skin
  • Value for money
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • No pulling or rubbing required

Cons

  • None

9. Best Ph Balance:Klorane Eye Make-up Remover

4.3
Klorane Eye Make-up Remover Image: Klorane

If you are someone who has sensitive eyes an an oily skin type, then this is the suitable eye makeup remover for you. Klorane eye makeup remover is free from parabens, sulfates and silicones. With no harsh ingredients in it, the formula treats the skin gently. Induced with organically farmed cornflower, this soothing eye makeup remover effectively works on all types of makeup and keeps the skin clean. The pH value of the remover is similar to tears which keeps irritation, burning and sting sensation at bay. Ophthalmologist tested, this unique formula keeps your skin free from greasy residue. Another way of using this makeup remover is to apply it on a cotton pad and place it on your eyes like an eye compress.

Pros

  • Vegan formula
  • Fragrance-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Oil-free formula

Cons

  • It’s a bit runny.

10. Best Oil – Based:Lancome Bi Facil

4.7
Lancome Bi Facil Image: Lancôme

The Lancome Bi Facil eye makeup remover is safe for sensitive eyes and people who wear contact lenses. This gentle waterproof makeup remover is suitable for all skin types and removes without being greasy. The lipid content of the formula lifts eye makeup, while the water content with emollients removes waterproof mascaras or smoke-eye makeup. This makeup remover makes your skin feel refreshed and preserves youthful eye contours.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • No residue
  • Grease-free
  • Non-sticky
  • Long-lasting
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Contains alcohol

11.  Avene Gentle Eye Make-up Remover

4.1
Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Eye Makeup Remover Image: Aveneusa

Avène gentle eye makeup remover is an all-time favorite of people who get easily irritated by makeup products. It is specifically formulated to take off makeup with care and without making the skin irritated. The pH-balanced formula is ophthalmologist-tested and is also safe for contact lens wearers. Its soothing watery formula makes the application easy. In fact, unlike harsh makeup removers, it can be used directly over your eyes with a cotton pad or fingers. The pH level of this makeup remover is like that of tears and does not cause harm to the skin barrier. It doesn’t burn the eyes and prevents any dryness post-cleaning. With the presence of sorbitol and thermal spring water, the makeup remover is super hydrating in nature. Multiple reviewers have praised the gentle formula of this product.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Water-gel formula
  • Paraben-free

Cons

  • Slightly less quantity
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Hope after going through this article, you get the best eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes. Before heading to purchasing one, have a look at the points mentioned below that might assist you in making a better buy.

How To Choose Eye Makeup Remover For Sensitive Eyes

Consider the following points before investing in an eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes-

  • Skin Type

It is important to understand your skin type before you pick an eye makeup remover for your sensitive eyes. An oil-based makeup remover formula can create havoc on oily skin type, so it is best to invest in an oil-free option to keep oily greasiness away from your eyes and skin. In case you have dry skin, then invest in a water-gel or hydrating formula that not just removes makeup easily without being rough on your skin but also soothes your dry skin areas, especially around the eyes, and protects the skin barrier. For people with sensitive skin, look for tried-and-tested expert-recommended products that contain no harsh chemicals like parabens, silicones, or fragrances to avoid any kind of skin irritations around the eyes.

  • Formula

Formulas that are loaded with herbal ingredients like cucumber and aloe are super hydrating in nature. You can also look for products with ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, chamomile, or witch hazel to avoid irritating sensitive eyes and also to soothe the soft skin. In case you hate oily makeup residue on your eyes, look for formulas that contain purified water, micellar water, or a blend of ingredients that are less oily. For people who hate sting or burning sensation in their eyes, eye makeup removers with pH similar to that of tears would be great. In case you are a contact lens wearer, then choose a formula that is tested by ophthalmologists and considered safe for sensitive eyes. If you are someone who has very sensitive eyes, then always opt for a hypoallergenic eye makeup remover.

How To Remove Eye Makeup For Sensitive Skin

  • Choose a gentle eye makeup remover.
  • Make sure it is free from harsh chemicals and is hypoallergenic in nature.
  • Take a cotton pad or ball.
  • Put some eye makeup remover on this cotton pad or ball. Take enough of the product to avoid rough dragging of cotton pad on the skin.
  • If you have to rub too hard to take off your makeup, this formula may not be ideal for your skin and makeup type. Switch to a new formula that does the job easily without any harsh rubbing.

Infographic: Tips To Remove Eye Makeup

The cosmetics world offers different makeup removers (oil-based, cream-based, or water-based) to remove makeup products, dirt, and grime. While removing eye makeup is not quite difficult, not using the right products or techniques can leave behind residue or cause irritation in the eyes. Below is an infographic with some tips to remove eye makeup. Check it out!

Tips To Remove Eye Makeup (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Taking care of your eyes isn’t easy! We must be extra cautious about everything when it comes to our eyes. You should choose eye makeup removers that are certified by ophthalmologists and dermatologists so that your makeup remover is devoid of harmful chemicals and toxins. But at the same time, it should remove all eye makeup thoroughly. It is advised to never excessively scrub your eyes or the area around your eyes. Choose products that are gentle on your eyes and the sensitive skin around your eyes. The Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup Remover is a reliable choice suitable for sensitive skin types as well as those who wear contact lenses, while the La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover is a perfect choice for those looking for a fragrance-free option. If you are looking for an ophthalmologist-tested product, then Klorane Eye Make-up Remover is the best bet. Eye makeup removers that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and other toxic chemicals must be avoided at all costs. Steer clear of eye makeup removers that are sticky, greasy, and feel heavy on the skin. Removers that make the skin feel fresh are the best ones!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is eye makeup remover bad for your eyes?

Generally, eye makeup removers are not bad for your eyes. Still, one should consider using a gentle eye makeup remover with no harsh ingredients.

Can you use eye makeup remover on your face?

Yes, you can use eye makeup remover on your face, depending on your skin type. If your makeup remover is free from oils, then it can be used for oily-acne prone skin, else not.

Why does eye makeup remover irritate my eyes?

Eye makeup remover might be irritating your eyes because you are not using the makeup remover in the right way. Ensure there is no pulling or rubbing of eyes while you remove makeup. Also, if there are harsh toxic ingredients in your makeup remover like parabens, sulfates, it can irritate your eyes.

How often should you use eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes?

Try to remove eye makeup with organic ingredients like milk, baking soda, and honey to prevent any skin irritations. If using drugstore eye makeup removers, do not use them more than twice a week. Always do a patch test before trying out products around your eye region.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Srijita De, is a makeup enthusiast who loves trying out different products. She has curated a list of the best eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes after carefully researching and browsing through online reviews. According to her, even minor mistakes can irritate the eyes, which is why investing in a powerful yet delicate eye makeup remover is always a good choice. The products listed are marked safe, certified by ophthalmologists and dermatologists, and free of any fragrance or irritants.

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