7 Best Makeup Removers For Acne-Prone Skin, As Per A Makeup Artist – 2025
Gentle and safe formula for acne-prone skin that doesn’t leave any line behind.
Stephanie G-M is a green makeup artist. She has worked at Fashion Weeks in London and New York and boasts of a clientele including Alexa Chung, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cara Delevingne, Elle Macpherson, Labrinth, Little Dragon, Morcheeba, and Suki Waterhouse.
Read full bio of Stephanie G-M
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
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While you may be careful about what makeup you use to cover up your acne, scars, and blemishes, You will also need a good makeup remover for acne-prone skin to prevent future breakouts. Along with letting your bare skin breathe at the end of the day, acne-prone skin needs that extra bit of cleansing and balancing of your natural facial oils as well. A gentle makeup remover specially formulated for acne-prone skin not only draws out the heavy makeup, dirt, and grime but also helps unclog your pores and soothe your skin after the cleansing process. Stephanie G-M, a celebrity and fashion makeup artist says, “When dealing with acne-prone skin you want to be sure you use a product with ingredients that will focus on balancing and cleansing pores without stripping your skin. Very astringent products that strip your skin can mean your skin will start overproducing sebum and can lead to more breakouts.” To help you choose one, we have shortlisted the 7 best options for you.
In This Article
7 Best Gentle Makeup Removers For Acne-Prone Skin
1. Best For Double Cleansing:Banila Co Clean It Zero
The Banila Co Clean It Zero is a purifying cleansing balm that removes makeup for a clean face. It emulsifies with water and dissolves makeup from your skin without stripping its natural moisture balance. It offers double cleansing with a sherbet-like balm to oil texture. This effective formula is infused with balancing ingredients that soothe and calm sensitive skin The blend of seven natural stress-relieving herbs offers stress relief and comfort to acne-prone skin. It helps reduce the chances of breakouts, redness, and blemishes on sensitive and acne-prone skin. A A reviewer’s experience featured in this video will give you more insights into the product.
Key Ingredients: Centella asiatica extract, Licorice root extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Rosemary leaf extract, Scutellaria baicalensis root extract, Chamomile flower extract, and Polygonum cuspidatum root extract
Pros
- All-natural purifying ingredients
- Smells good
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Artificial color-free
Cons
- May feel greasy
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 7,784 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best Antioxidant Rich:DHC Pore Cleansing Oil
The DHC Pore Cleansing oil melts away stubborn makeup, unclogs pores, and gets rid of sebum. It cleanses leftover makeup making your complexion bright, balanced, and revitalized. The soothing calendula flower extracts in this lightweight formula protect the skin against free radicals, while the antioxidant-rich citrus extracts brighten the skin tone. The cleansing oil efficiently dissolves dirt, dead cells, and other impurities on the skin without leaving behind an oily residue. This multiple award-winning formula has numerous positive reviews on Amazon and other trusted e-commerce platforms.
Key Ingredients: Calendula and Citrus extracts
Also Recommended By: The DHC Pore Cleansing Oil has also made it to the lists by Bustle.[1]The 5 Best Makeup Removers For Acne-Prone Skin. Bustle. https://www.bustle.com/p/the-5-best-makeup-removers-for-acne-prone-skin-18798231
Pros
- Lightweight
- Smells good
- No oily residue
- Non-irritating
Cons
- May sting the eyes
3. Best Affordable:Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes
Thoroughly cleanse your face with the Neutrogena Oil-free Cleansing Wipes. These facial cleansing towelettes remove impurities, dirt, and makeup from the skin. They are ideal for acne-prone skin and come in a pack of easy-to-store 25 pre-moistened wipes. Each facial wipe is formulated with naturally-derived pink grapefruit, which removes all pore-clogging impurities. It leaves the skin feeling light, clean, and rejuvenated. So don’t wait anymore and grab these dermatologist-tested cleansing wipes at an affordable price today!
Key Ingredients: Pink grapefruit and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist-approved
- Allergy-tested
- Easy to carry
- Nice fragrance
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes | DHC Pore Cleansing Oil | Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Acne Prone,Oily | Sensitive |
| Dimensions | 3.15 x 3.15 x 2.76 inches | 7 x 1.88 x 1.88 inches | 1.58 x 6.53 x 4.86 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 Ounces. | 0.64 Ounces | 1.92 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 7,784 | 208 | 753 |
| Price | $23.25 | $27 | $6.67 |
4. Best For Daily Use:Almay Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes
Get clean, clear, and breathable skin with Almay Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes. These effective and convenient beauty towelettes are safe and soft on your skin as they remove makeup, get rid of impurities, clean pores, and also exfoliate dead cells from the skin. They are made of biodegradable fibers and are safe for the environment as well. They are gentle on the skin and ideal for daily use without causing rashes or irritation.
These cleansing wipes are great for oily and acne-prone skin as they remove excess dirt and sebum from the pores. This helps improve breathability and elasticity of the skin while offering a youthful glow. These towelettes are non-comedogenic as they do not clog pores. They keep the skin supple, hydrated, and free from breakouts. The wipes have a clean formula and are hypoallergenic, free from artificial fragrances, and dermatologically-tested. The brand does not conduct animal testing, which makes these great fur-friendly options for all.
Key Ingredients: Aloe leaf extract, Benzoic acid, and Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Pros
- Oil-free formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Improves skin elasticity
- Offers deep cleansing
- Controls sebum production
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-approved
Cons
- Not chemical-free
Pro Tip5. Best For Waterproof Makeup:Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Eye Make-up Remover
The Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Eye Make-up Remover has an aqueous gel formula devoid of any oil content. It is specially crafted to remove makeup gently from the delicate area around the eyes. The deep cleanser offers hydration and soothes and calms the skin without drying it out. The eye makeup remover is mild and spreads evenly and efficiently removes stubborn, long-lasting mascara and other eye products. Reviewers have highly praised how effectively this product works to offer exceptional results.
Key Ingredients: Avene thermal spring water and Sorbitol
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle
- No scrubbing
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Does not work well for waterproof mascara
Pro Tip6. Best For Ph Balance:Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser
The Algenist Genius Ultimate Melting Cleanser melts into a milky emulsion with water to gently lift away all traces of makeup and dirt from the face. It is infused with avocado, microalgae oil, and hyaluronic acid that nourish the skin and replenish its pH balance. This oil-based cleanser minimizes signs of premature aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, and makes the skin smooth, bright, and youthful.
Key Ingredients: Avocado, Hyaluronic acid, and Microalgae oil
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle
- Nice scent
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
Cons
- Less quantity
7. Best For Redness:Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
Upgrade your daily skincare routine with the Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser. This salicylic acid cleansing gel is ideal for acne and blemish-prone skin and leaves it feeling clean, refreshed, and comfortable. The salicylic acid in the formula dissolves impurities that clog pores and cause breakouts without drying the skin or causing flaking. It smoothens uneven skin tone and reduces dullness. The facial cleanser gently removes makeup, dirt, and sebum from the skin with a soothing gel-like texture that calms irritation and redness. This product is not tested on animals and is a good choice for ethically conscious consumers.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Pros
- Gentle
- Non-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-irritating
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 4,777 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Acne-prone skin is sensitive to products, so here are some points to consider while buying a makeup remover for such delicate skin types.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Makeup Remover For Acne-Prone Skin
- Skin Type: All beauty and skincare products are formulated with specific skin types in mind as one-suits-all does not work. Check your skin type – dry, oily, sensitive, or combination – and pick a makeup remover specific to it. This will reduce the chances of allergies and irritation. For example, if your skin is oily, go for a water-based or oil-free cleanser. If it is sensitive, check out expert-recommended products to avoid irritation.
- Ingredients: Some regular cleansers may contain chemicals that may irritate the skin. This could also be harmful to the skin in the long run. For example, a cleanser with carcinogens may eliminate accumulated bacteria but could also have various side effects. Hence, it is always advisable to go for natural formulas or clean makeup products as they are less likely to cause breakouts and allergies.
- Alcohol-free: Alcohol is a common ingredient in makeup removal wipes or cleansers due to its antibacterial properties. But it can dry the skin out. Hence, look for alcohol-free products to maintain its moisture balance.
Infographic: Types Of Makeup Removers For Acne-Prone Skin
Acne-prone skin is highly sensitive. Therefore, it is important to use the right skin care products that do not aggravate the condition. But with so many makeup removers available online, how do you choose the right one? Check out the below infographic that breaks down the types of makeup removers best suited for acne-prone skin.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Acne-prone skin needs a special cleansing process and products to clean the makeup. Specially formulated makeup removers can thoroughly remove the impurities, dead skin cells, and makeup effectively without triggering a breakout. Also, alcohol-free, dermatologically-tested, non-irritating, and oil-free makeup removers can work phenomenally on the skin. However, you must consult a dermatologist if your acne worsens due to makeup. They help you choose the best makeup remover that matches your skin and makeup needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?
Yes, dermatologists recommend micellar water as a cleanser for acne-prone skin. It penetrates deep into the layers of the skin to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin without clogging the pores or causing greasiness. It also reduces the chances of acne and keeps the skin healthy.
Can makeup removers cause acne?
No, makeup wipes will not directly cause acne. However, makeup removers might leave a residue, clogging pores and triggering acne, especially for people with sensitive skin types.
Can I use micellar oil water to remove makeup if I have acne-prone skin?
Yes. Micellar water is gentle on acne-prone skin and does cause irritations while cleansing. Also, oil-based micellar water leaves good microbes and bacteria that help prevent skin infections like acne.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Baishali Bhattacharya, is certified in makeup artistry. She has curated this list of the best makeup removers for acne-prone skin after carefully browsing through online reviews on several e-commerce websites. She picked only top-rated products that will help you control dirt and grime on your skin. These makeup removers are made with natural ingredients, soothe your skin, and don’t leave any oily residue.
Read full bio of Stephanie G-M
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Asmita De
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