If there’s one non-negotiable rule in beauty, it’s this: never go to bed with your makeup on. After rocking a full-glam look all day with waterproof, bold eye makeup and lipstick — the true secret to clear, glowing skin lies in proper removal. That’s where the best makeup remover steps in.
Whether you prefer wipes, a cleansing balm, micellar water, or cleansing oil, the right formula not only sweeps away every trace of makeup but also shields your skin from breakouts. Fear not— we’ve got you covered with the best ways to melt away your makeup while keeping your skin healthy. Keep reading!
Why It’s Important to Remove Your Makeup Before Sleep?
We’ve all been tempted to hit the bed after a long day without touching our face, but trust us — it’s essential for your skin’s long-term health. Here’s why you should never skip this step:
- Prevents clogged pores and breakouts – leftover foundation and powders can trap dirt and oil.
- Keeps skin youthful – sleeping with makeup can accelerate fine lines and dullness.
- Allows skin to repair – your skin rejuvenates at night, and a clean base helps it heal and absorb nutrients better.
- Reduces irritation – mascara or eyeliner left on can cause eye infections or lash breakage.
So, before you crawl under the covers, take those few minutes to remove your makeup — your skin will thank you in the future!
5 Best Makeup Remover for Stubborn Makeup
Here we’ve rounded up the 5 best makeup removers (dermatologist recommendation and fan favourites) that melt away even the most stubborn formulas while restore your skin:
1. Cerave Hydrating Wipes Makeup Remover
- Suitable for: All type of skin
- Type: Best waterproof wipes makeup remover
Cerave Hydrating Makeup Removing Wipes can easily melt away waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and long-wear lipstick without harsh rubbing. Infused with ceramides and glycerin, it hydrates while cleansing, leaving skin soft, fresh, and plump. Fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, and ophthalmologist-tested, making it suitable even for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
2. Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
- Suitable for: All type of skin
- Type: Best Korean makeup remover
The magic of Korean skincare, Man:yo’s Cleansing Oil deeply cleanses while targeting blackheads and whiteheads without clogging pores. it contains 14 plant oils, including argan kernel oil to support skin regeneration, it gives your skin hydration for a smoother complexion. Suitable for all skin types — this product offers a thorough cleanse without irritation.
3. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
- Suitable for: Sensitive Skin
- Type: Best High-end makeup remover
The Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm is a fragrance-free remover designed to be extra gentle on sensitive skin and eyes. Powered by safflower seed oil, it works like magic to break down natural oils and melt away even the most stubborn long-wear or waterproof makeup. With its luxe balm-to-oil texture, it glides on smoothly, dissolves impurities in seconds, and leaves your skin feeling fresh and soft.
4. Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micellar Water
- Suitable for: Sensitive Skin
- Type: Best Drugstore makeup remover
Invented by a pharmacist and biologist from from France, Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water is a cult-favorite especially for sensitive skin users. It gently lifts away makeup and impurities from both face and eyes while soothing the skin and reducing the risk of irritation. Its fragrance-free and with its non-rinse formula it highly tolerable even for sensitive types.
5. LANCOME BI-FACIL Non-Oily Instant Eye Makeup Remover
- Suitable for: All skin type
- Type: Best Eye Makeup Remover
The Lancôme Bi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Eye Makeup Remover taking off waterproof eye makeup effortlessly. Its gentle bi-phase formula, combining an oil phase to lift stubborn makeup and a water phase to cleanse away residue, leaves the skin refreshed without any greasy feel. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Steps to Remove Makeup Correctly
Want to avoid clogged pores, dryness, or irritation? Here’s the right way to do it (dermatologist approved):
- Step 1: Wash your hands. This is to avoid bacteria from your face.
- Step 2: Remove your face makeup (micellar water, cleansing oil, or balm) to dissolve makeup.
- Step 3: Do a mini cleanse for waterproof eye and lip makeup (using micellar water or cleansing oil) to avoid infection.
- Step 4: Follow with a gentle facial cleanser to wash away residue. (This is called double cleansing.)
- Step 5: Pat dry—never rub harshly.
- Step 4: Finish with your regular skincare routine; toner, serum, and moisturizer.
When removing makeup, keep in mind to always double cleanse , and if you’re using cotton pads, avoid rubbing harshly as it can irritate your skin. Make sure to pay extra attention when cleaning around the eye and lip areas to avoid infection and irritation.
Your skin deserves love, not stress! Remember that not every product suits everyone. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, always consult a dermatologist to find what works best for your concerns.
Say goodbye to stubborn mascara — find your perfect makeup remover at ZALORA.
