Sensitive skin can really get the rough end of the deal when it comes to makeup removers. Between the stinging and the drying, it might seem like nothing can get your makeup off gently without leaving your skin irritated.
And if you are a fan of long-wearing waterproof makeup like me, it can be even more difficult to get rid of your favorite waterproof mascara or liquid lipstick without giving your skin a hard time. That’s where these best makeup removers for sensitive skin come in!
From micellar waters to cleansing balms, here are the best drugstore makeup removers for sensitive skin that are gentle, contain no irritants, and tackle even hard to remove makeup while being easy on your skin…and wallet (they are all under $15!)
Garnier Nutritioniste SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water ($7)
This is undoubtedly one of the best drugstore micellar waters (and a great drugstore dupe for Bioderma Sensibio H2O!). The water-light liquid effectively removes oil, dirt, and non-waterproof makeup without harsh rubbing. It doesn’t leave behind a residue, nor does it leave skin feeling dry and tight.
Thanks to its gentle, fragrance-free formula that leaves skin perfectly clean & refreshed, it’s a true drugstore find—even for extra-sensitive skin. For more heavy duty long-wearing makeup, especially waterproof mascaras and eyeliners, Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water for waterproof makeup is a great option.
Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil ($8.99)
Made with 100% pure grapeseed oil, this fragrance-free cleansing oil works beautifully removing all makeup – whether it be waterproof mascara, foundation or ultra matte lipstick. It also rinses off easily with water, leaving skin thoroughly clean, hydrated and soft…no dryness at all.
This cleansing oil is a great option especially for dry, temperamental skin that’s easily irritated. And at just under $10 for a 4.2 oz bottle, the price is hard to beat! You can read my detailed review here.
Simple Dual Effect Eye Make-Up Remover ($8.25)
When it comes to eye makeup removers, this one is my favorite! The dual-phase formula quickly sweeps away all eye makeup, even waterproof mascara, requiring no unnecessary rubbing.
No stinging, no irritation, and no greasy feel! With no artificial perfumes, colors, or harsh chemicals, it’s gentle yet effective, and for a reasonable price, too!
Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Remover ($8.49)
Infused with skin-soothing aloe vera, ginseng and green tea, this is a bi-phase makeup remover that wipes off all types of makeup (even stubborn waterproof makeup) in just a couple of passes. It has a water-like “liquid” portion and an oil-like portion (silicone in this case) that you mix together by shaking the bottle.
The gentle oil-free formula is an excellent option for all skin types, and the price for its generous size makes it a beauty bargain!
Simple Radiance Cleansing Wipes ($4.43)
Makeup removing wipes are a busy girl’s staple — they’re portable, fast, and easy. But what’s a girl with sensitive skin gotta do? Simple Radiance Cleansing Wipes to the rescue! These wipes are a good size, soft, and well-saturated to get the job done quickly. One wipe is enough to remove dirt, oil and even heavy waterproof makeup!
Not only are these gentle cleansing towelettes fragrance-free but also contain soothing vitamin E, panthenol, and mango extract. I like to keep a pack of these on my nightstand for those days when I’m just too exhausted to wash my face before my head hits the pillow!
Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Melting Cleanser ($9.99)
Designed to cleanse dry skin without stripping it, this luxuriously rich cleansing balm instantly melts away even the most stubborn makeup, while leaving skin soft and supple. It can be mixed with a little water to create a creamy emulsion or slathered directly onto dry face for a decadent cleansing experience!
Either way, it melts right in, effortlessly dissolving a day’s worth of makeup and grime while leaving skin nourished with virgin coconut oil and moringa seed oil. Although great for sensitive and normal to dry skin types, those with oily skin might find this cleansing balm a bit too rich for their liking. Here’s my full review.
L’Oreal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Normal to Dry Skin ($7.89)
Another great drugstore micellar cleansing water that does a great job of removing dirt, oil, and makeup easily while being gentle on skin. It dries quickly and leaves skin clean, soothed and hydrated. Free of oil, soap, alcohol, or fragrance, the formula is a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Oil ($15)
This all-natural cleansing oil combines a unique blend of natural moisturizers, including coconut and argan oil. It removes any kind of makeup (waterproof too) quickly and without an oily residue. It leaves skin feeling soft and comforted, not greasy or slick.
It also rinses off quite easily. This cleansing oil is actually a great drugstore dupe for Josie Maran Argan oil at half the price! Although 100% natural with no parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS, it’s not fragrance-free which makes this iffy for use around the eyes.
What’s your favorite drugstore makeup remover?
Shop this post…
I tried one of the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Waters a couple of months ago. It did a really good job of getting all my makeup off. The downside was after using it for awhile I would have pimples pop up in a few places. Once I stopped using the Micellar Cleansing Water I didn’t have that happen anymore. I’m not sure if it’s the particular formula I used or if my skin doesn’t like Micellar Water period.
Oh ok…I really like Garnier’s micellar water for regular makeup but prefer using a cleansing oil or balm for waterproof makeup. Maybe you can try one of those!