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12 Of The Best Make-Up Removers For When That Waterproof Mascara Won't Budge
Liquid lipstick be gone!
We know you’re taking your make-up off every night, like the exemplary skincare students you are, but the question is: what are you taking it off with?
A light BB cream or a touch of bronzer is easy enough to swipe away, but when it comes to waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation and matte-as-chalk lipsticks, you’re going to need to call on a seriously good make-up remover.
The products most up for the job are those that will break down make-up residue without requiring too much elbow grease: if you’re going at your delicate eyelids with the same force you'd use when scrubbing the kitchen counters, your make-up remover isn’t working hard enough.
From dermatologist-approved waters to the a balm that will melt even the most stubborn mascara, all ten of these editor-approved make-up removers will do the job perfectly. Simply take your pick…
There's nothing quite like the luxurious feel of a cleansing balm, so when you find one that doesn't break the bank and has the make-up melting properties to rid you of even your most clingy mascara, you pay attention. With a light, fresh scent, this rich balm left our skin feeling thoroughly soft and cleansed.
We can't be sure, but we think there's a good chance that the Glossier Milky Oil was the inspiration behind the phrase 'small but mighty.' The dual phase formula (consisting of micellar water and oil) is gentle enough for dry skin types while still doing the dirty work and getting rid of stubborn makeup.
REN Clean Skincare Perfect Canvas Clean Jelly Oil Cleanser
Squeeze a dollop of this onto your hand and massage into skin to watch it dislodge everything from waterproof mascara to lipstick. A generous dose of grape, sunflower and meadowfoam oil makes this the perfect make-up remover for those who are prone to parched patches.
Institut Esthederm High Tolerance Make-Up Remover for Eyes and Lips 125ml
Institut Esthederm High Tolerance Make-Up Remover for Eyes and Lips 125ml
Waterproof mascara, lip stains and even cream eyeshadow won't stand a chance against this impressive remover. It dissolves make-up in a single swipe, leaving skin feeling super-silky. Simply shake, tap on to a cotton pad and go.
La Roche-Posay Rosaliac Make-Up Remover Gel
Formulated with sensitive and breakout-prone skin in mind, this gentle gel-textured cleanser will sweep away make-up without the need for rubbing. Simply press and hold a product-soaked cotton pad over the eyes, before swiping gently downwards to remove mascara.
Caudalie Vinoclean Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
Caudalie Vinoclean Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
For something a little more spa-like (yet no less effective), look to Caudalie's sweetly scented cleansing oil. The 100% natural blend of grape seed, sunflower and sweet almond is safe for use around the eyes, and leaves skin feeling soft, not stripped.
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
This pretty-much legendary balm is still one of the best for melting a full face of make-up in seconds. Slather it on, massage it in, then remove with a warm, damp flannel.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-Up Removing Solution
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-Up Removing Solution
This cult cleanser is a make-up artist favourite – and for good reason. It cuts through cakey powder and mops up face oil, leaving skin feeling squeaky clean and perfectly balanced. Those prone to spots will love how it helps banish both impurities and excess sebum.
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
An oil-based cleanser will melt long-wear make-up and waterproof mascara quicker than a water-based remover, but you will need to commit to a thorough second cleanse afterwards. DHC's is brilliantly priced (there's really no need to spend a fortune on a make-up remover) and makes light work of layers of product.
This make-up-melting water is enriched with Avène's signature spring water. It's a great choice for all skin types (even the most sensitive).
Garnier Naturals 2-in-1 Eye Make-Up Remover
A quick swipe of this soothing arginine-based make-up remover will melt away mascara without drying out your lashes, which can lead to breakage.
Created in collaboration with Caroline Hirons, this two-in-one cleansing kit is (unsurprisingly) note-perfect. The vitamin E-rich oil balm will melt make-up and sunscreen, before the cream treats and balances the skin.
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