10 Best Makeup Removers in 2022 (Makeup Artist-Reviewed)

The danger with certain makeup removers and oily skin is the possibility of increasing oil production which leads to clogged pores and breakouts. Imagine makeup, pollutants, dirt, and oil getting stuck within the pores and causing acne when you are simply trying to clean your skin. 

There are oil-free makeup removers specifically for oily skin types. If you have sensitive skin and want to steer clear of any oil, you can opt for these formulas. Be aware of drying ingredients like sodium laureth sulfate which can strip your skin and increase oil production; just be sure to pair your remover with a hydrating cleanser. 

So you may be wondering, should cleansing oils be used for oily skin? Unfortunately, there is no right answer as everyone's skin is different and can react to oils in many ways. However, there are some factors about oils that you'll want to consider as you start on your trial and error journey with finding the best solution for your oily skin.

The main benefit of using cleansing oils is that the oil attracts debris and dirt from your pores without stripping your skin and instead, maintains your skin's PH and hydration. Yet, using an oil-based makeup remover may not suffice in getting a thorough cleanse, so be sure to use a second cleanser to penetrate and exfoliate your pores.

There are some oils you will want to use with caution as they are known to clog pores such as cottonseed, coconut, and wheat germ. However, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba, hemp, and hazelnut are possible options you can try out! Just keep in mind that even if you are oily, cleansing oils are not off-limits. 

Moisture is key for dry skin maintenance. Therefore, makeup removers with that added nourishment are a must. Whether it's aloe vera or cucumber extract, dry skin types need that moisture boost especially after the face has been stripped of makeup and natural oils.

It is also advised for those with dry skin types to go for oil-based products to ensure that makeup gets removed quickly without leaving the skin parched and tight. 

Those with combination skin types have both oily and dry areas on their face. Combination-skinned folks could really go for any form of makeup remover at first to test them out and see what kind of formula works best. 

Depending on your preference and needs, you'll still want to maintain your skin's PH and keep your skin moisturized so that it has a good barrier for your next product. There are also brands that cater to combination skin with their micellar water-based makeup removers that have the ability to dissolve makeup across different skin complexions.

Cleansing oils and balms are great options to use that are low on tissue or cotton ball waste. However, if those do not work well for your skin, there is an alternative choice of wipes. Just note that the act of wiping your face can be detrimental, in that the wipe, tissue, or pad may smear makeup back onto your face or be too rough for the skin. Use with caution and not every day.

Normal skin types are those who do not have excessively dry or oily skin and may be able to use most makeup remover products on the market. However, do keep in mind that skin types change depending on many factors such as aging, stress, and hormone levels. 

Much like a combination skin type, you still want to maintain your skin's healthy balance by using gentle and lightweight makeup removers to be assured there won't be any surprise breakouts or unwanted irritation.

Oil-, micellar water-, or cream-based makeup removers are often recommended for sensitive skin types because it gets the job done fast without tugging the skin or causing irritation. 

Because these skin types are prone to redness and other reactions to certain ingredients, it is best to go for products formulated for sensitive skin, and always check the ingredients list to make sure you're not putting any known allergens on your skin.

Another consideration to keep in mind when choosing a makeup remover is its power. Micellar water and oil-based creams and balms often work like magic with their thick texture on waterproof, long-lasting, energy-consuming makeup.

It is recommended to go for a double-cleanse for heavy makeup. A good rule of thumb is to match your remover to the kind of makeup you use; for example, if you use oil-based makeup, use an oil-based remover and cleanser. After, you can go in with micellar water and a light exfoliant to completely remove any caked trace of makeup. 

Lastly, we have makeup removers that tackle specific areas, because let's face it, not all cosmetics are created equal. 

One of the hardest areas to remove makeup from are the eyes, whether it's waterproof mascara or lash primer. Another sensitive feature is the lips. Certain lipsticks, especially the liquid-matte types need extra power to be fully removed but too much cleaning power may dry them out.

Therefore, oil-based removers are most likely your best choice because of their ability to break down the waterproof properties in your mascara and dissolve the most stubborn formulas in matte lipsticks. Yet, they do this without drying out your lashes or lips. It's the best of both worlds!

This ingredient is most used as an antibacterial agent found in household cleaners. It is also used in antibacterial hand wipes and anti-itch ointments. Don't be alarmed when the chemical appears in a makeup remover, though, because they usually don't come in the same amount or potency as cleaning liquids.

Benzalkonium chloride in makeup removers kills microorganisms and bacteria, specifically those that clog pores and lead to acne. However, it is advised for those with sensitive skin to conduct a patch test before using a product with benzalkonium chloride to avoid skin irritation. 

You may be thinking that all alcohols should be avoided when looking at ingredients in skincare and cosmetics. However, you should be aware that this isn't the case and there are varying types of alcohol that provide certain benefits in low concentrations. 

Ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, alcohol denat, and methanol are ones you should be cautious of and that can disrupt the skin barrier and create more oil and lead to breakouts if used at high levels. 

However, benzyl alcohol, if used at a low concentration is actually essential in preserving natural skincare products and making sure they're free from bacteria. If you know you have sensitive skin or just want peace of mind, it's recommended to speak to a professional or perform a patch test when using products formulated with alcohol. 

This substance is commonly added to cosmetics and skincare products as an effective preservative because it prevents the growth of bacteria. Although cosmetics cannot be passed if the substance is over a certain percent, tests and evidence still show users can be allergic. Just be aware and, like most of these ingredients, perform a patch test to stay on the safe side. 

Foamy and bubbly makeup removers often have sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) which we can associate with the squeaky clean finish. What many are not aware of is that the ingredient can strip your skin of natural oils and lead to dry skin and overall skin irritation. Going for sulfate-free products is one option for those with sensitive skin. 

There are plenty of oil-based removers, but it is good to know which ones that will provide benefits without clogging up your skin. A word you will want to keep in mind is "non-comedogenic," which means the product will not clog but instead clarify your pores. 

Hempseed oil is a great option that also contains vitamin C and E. Grapeseed oil can help improve the skin barrier and reduce the appearance of acne scars and dark spots. 

Sunflower oil that is cold-pressed and unrefined is another great choice that is incredibly gentle on the skin and can help with breakouts. Olive oil is also a great moisturizer for the delicate eye area and adds a nice glowing touch all over the face.

If we put cucumber slices over our eyes to calm and nourish the area, how much more effective could it be if applied all over the skin as a makeup remover? 

Cucumber extract is known as the superfood for the skin because of the Vitamin C, proteins, minerals, and lipids it contains. Be rest assured that a makeup remover with cucumber extract has that boost of moisture we long for. 

Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and relieving properties for a bad sunburn; additionally, it has multiple benefits as a skincare product and is a wonderful ingredient to keep in mind for removing makeup. It contains antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and is highly anti-inflammatory, which is great for treating acne and dry skin. 

Another makeup remover component to look out for is Vitamin E. It's a powerful antioxidant that nourishes and protects the skin from free radicals and UV damage. While it is the job of cosmetics to make us look awesome, we should not forget the skin lying underneath by using products that are rejuvenating.