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One of the most tedious—and sometimes heartbreaking—parts of wearing a great eye look is the inevitable task of having to eventually wash it away. In addition to a hardworking cleanser, some of the best eye makeup removers can make it simple to whisk away lingering shadow, mascara, and liner with ease.
Plus, there are a number of gentle formulas—some even dermatologist and ophthalmologist approved—that are made specifically for those with sensitive eyes and won't sting or irritate as they cleanse. "The under-eye area is quite sensitive as it is some of the thinnest skin on the body," New York City–based board-certified dermatologist Anthony Rossi previously told BAZAAR.com.
To help you track down an effective essential to round out your skin care routine and speed up your cleansing one, we've pulled together 12 of the very best eye makeup removers to shop now.
Best Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Cleansing Water
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Best Eye Makeup Remover Towelettes
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Best Eye Makeup Remover Towelettes
Clinique Take the Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towelettes for Face & Eyes
Pros
- Travel friendly
Cons
This signature Take the Day Off cleanser is one of our holy grail favorites. In the form of towelettes, the remover seamlessly wipes away stubborn eye makeup without water.
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Best Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Eyes
MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens’Eyes Waterproof Sensitive Eye Cleanser
Pros
- Ophthalmologist tested
Cons
Those with sensitive eyes should consider adding this popular product to their skin care routines. One satisfied Sephora customer writes, "By far the gentlest yet most thorough makeup remover on the market! I smooth this over my entire face once I've focused on my eyes and doing so provides the perfect prep to my daily cleansing."
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Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
Here's an eye makeup remover that also works on your lips and features calming ingredients like chamomile to soothe skin and condition lashes.
Pros
- Ophthalmologist tested
Cons
This oil-free eye makeup remover is equipped to handle both water- and transfer-proof formulas. In addition to being noncomedogenic (meaning it won't clog pores), it's also dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested.
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Pros
- Editor's Choice
- Hydrating
Cons
We recently raved about the fast-acting power of EADEM's hydrating cleansing balm, which works in 60 seconds to remove all traces of makeup.
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Best Eye Makeup Remover for People Wearing Contacts
Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
Pros
- No-rinse formula
Cons
You won't need to rinse off this lightweight liquid- and water-phase remover, which features a gentle formula that's safe for both sensitive skin and contact wearers.
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Pros
- Vegan
Cons
If you're a fan of face misting, you'll love this makeup-dissolving option that contains ingredients like jojoba and rosehip oil to calm, hydrate, and brighten skin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in the best eye makeup removers?
Just like our skin types, the best eye makeup removers aren't one-size-fits-all, so you should look for one that suits your specific needs. Whether you have sensitive eyes or are in the market for an oil-free option, we're betting there's a formula on this list for you.
Should I rub my eyes to remove my makeup?
To avoid unnecessary tugging or pulling on the delicate eye area, let your remover of choice sit on your lid for a few minutes before gently buffing it away with a washcloth or cotton pad. Avoid rubbing—your lashes will thank you.
What are some common types of makeup removers?
- Cleansing balms: Typically have a hydrating, gel-like consistency that latches onto makeup while being gentle on skin.
- Dual-phase liquid removers: These makeup removers are usually used with a cotton pad and contain a blend of ingredients that works to break down makeup.
- Makeup remover tools: For an eco-conscious removal option, makeup removal tools can be used over and over again, some up to 1,000 times.
- Cleansing towelettes: Similar to a regular makeup remover wipe, some towelettes are specially formulated to remove eye makeup.
- Micellar water: Tiny micelles work to break down dirt, oil, and makeup while being gentle on sensitive skin and eyes.
Tiffany Dodson
Associate Beauty Commerce Editor
Tiffany Dodson Davis is the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar. Don't ask her to choose a favorite fragrance—it's like picking a favorite child. As one of the brand's resident shopping experts, she specializes in trend forecasting, testing the latest beauty and wellness launches, and curating bookmark-worthy commerce guides. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in SELF Magazine, Bustle, and Teen Vogue. She's also been tapped as a commerce and beauty expert for The Business of Fashion, NPR’s Life Kit podcast, and more.