7 Best Gentle Makeup Removers For Acne-Prone Skin – 2023
Gentle and safe formula for acne-prone skin that doesn’t leave any line behind.
Stephanie G-MMakeup Artist
Expertise: Makeup
Experience: 17 years
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 ... more
Baishali Bhattacharya Certified Image Consultant, Certified In Makeup Artistry
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
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 ... more
Image: Image: Shutterstock
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 makeup remover specially formulated for acne-prone skin not only draws out the 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. 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 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. 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 ingredients
- Smells good
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Artificial color-free
Cons
- May feel greasy
Quick Tip2. 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 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.
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. Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes
Image: Neutrogena 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 wipe is formulated with naturally-derived pink grapefruit, which removes all pore-clogging impurities. It leaves the skin feeling light, clean, and rejuvenated.
Key Ingredients: Pink grapefruit and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Allergy-tested
- Easy to carry
- Nice fragrance
Cons
- Contains alcohol
4. Almay Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes
Get clean, clear, and breathable skin with Almay Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes. These 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 are hypoallergenic, free from artificial fragrances, and dermatologically-tested.
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
- Promotes sebum control
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Not chemical-free
Pro Tip5. 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 keeps the skin calm and soothed. The remover is mild and spreads evenly and efficiently removes stubborn, long-lasting mascara and other eye products.
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. 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 cleanser minimizes 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. Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
Image: Paula’s Choice Upgrade your daily skin care routine with the Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser. This salicylic acid cleansing gel 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.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Pros
- Gentle
- Non-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-irritating
Cons
None
Acne-prone skin is sensitive to products, so here are some points to consider while buying a makeup remover for such skin types.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Makeup Remover For Acne-Prone Skin
- Skin Type: All 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.
- Ingredients: Some 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 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
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Download Infographic
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?
Yes, dermatologists recommend micellar water as a cleanser for acne-prone skin. It helps 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.
Recommended Articles
- Best Makeup Removers For All Skin Types
- Best Makeup Removers (Cleansers) For Sensitive Skin
- Best Makeup Remover Wipes You Should Try
- Best Makeup Removers For Oily Skin – A Helpful Buyer’s Guide
