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There are many tried-and-true beauty rules we actually aim to follow and going to bed with a clean face is one of them. Don’t get us wrong; there are definitely nights when we come home from a long day at work or night out and would rather face-plant into the bed. But somehow, some way, we’re able to gather just enough energy to blindly grab makeup removers that actually work and run them across our face.
Come morning, our pillowcase will let us know if that waterproof mascara or lipstick came all the way off (fingers crossed). And over time, we come face-to-face with an unfortunate truth: makeup wipes kind-of suck. Hear us out. We’re not saying you need to swear them off forever, but everyday use of even the gentlest cloths can leave the skin red, chapped and irritated; especially if you wear heavy makeup.
Though other forms of makeup removal aren’t as convenient, they do feel a lot nicer on the skin and usually come with cleansing benefits too, so you can cut your routine down a few steps. Ahead, 20 balms, oils, sticks and micellar waters that get the job done and won’t cost a lot either.
Tony Moly.
This gentle cleansing water is infused with peach extract to remove makeup; no rinse required.
Bliss.
A cooling, oil-free gel that won’t pull at the lashes.
Physician’s Formula.
Unlike coconut oil, coconut water isn’t nearly as greasy and gentle enough to apply on and around the eye.
Biore.
An all-in-one makeup remover and cleanser that doesn’t require rinsing.
Burt’s Bees.
A blend of natural oils, including argan and coconut, that can be used as a makeup remover and/or cleanser.
Formula 10.0.6
A lesser-known, but equally effective cleansing oil that smells like vanilla and best serves as the first step in your routine.
Pacifica.
A rinse-free cleanser made with a unique mix of lemongrass, quartz and watermelon.
Derma E.
Organic argan oil, organic jojoba seed oil and vitamin E combine to make this rinse-free makeup remover the key to dewier-looking skin.
La Roche-Posay.
Formulated for sensitive skin, this micellar water (best applied with a cotton pad) removes makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Boots No. 7.
Gently smoothes away makeup, thanks to a healthy dose of grapeseed oil.
SheaMoisture.
After a day of wearing heavy makeup, the charcoal will work to deeply penetrate the skin and remove seen and unseen grime.
Neutrogena.
Shake, pour and rub this water onto the eyelid to remove even waterproof makeup.
Cetaphil.
Made with aloe vera, ginseng and green tea for the most sensitive skin.
Soap & Glory.
Peach extracts, ginseng and jojoba oil included in this lightweight milk to wipe away makeup in one full swoop.
Botanics.
The natural hibiscus extract in this remover makes it especially gentle on the delicate eye area.
St. Ives.
Dermatologically-tested and made with natural coconut oil, this travel-friendly stick makes makeup removal way more bearable.
Almay.
If you’re not into micellar water, this heavier formula promises to remove makeup and cleanse the skin all at once.
Pond’s.
Unlike the classic cold cream, this balm is a solid formula that dissolves into a silky texture that melts makeup and other grime away.
Vichy.
A makeup remover, cleanser and toner in one, so you can skip a few steps of your normal routine.
Yes To.
Shake to activate the charcoal in this water, which gets rid of makeup in a few swipes without leaving black residue behind.
20 Under-$20 Makeup Removers That Aren’t Wipes, But Still Get the Job Done | @stylecaster
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