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  4. 10 Best Eye Makeup Removers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed
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10 Best Eye Makeup Removers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed

Removing your makeup at the end of the day may be an essential part of your daily skincare routine, but most of us struggle to remove eye makeup. That waterproof mascara and eyeliner may have been a blessing during the day, but when you’re going to bed with stained panda eyes you may be regretting those choices!


Luckily, mybest has you covered. From simple micellar waters to oil cleansers, cleansing balms, wipes, pads, and cooling gels, to products for sensitive skin and for sensitive eyes, we have compiled a buying guide to make sense of all the different varieties that exist, as well as a recommended list of products available from your favourite online drugstores and retailers such as Boots, John Lewis and Amazon.

Last updated 22/03/2024
Claire Higgins
Expert
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

A qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist. I provide professional makeup services for all occasions, whether it be for a bride on their wedding day or backstage at a photo shoot. I also enjoy teaching through hosting live talks on my social media, masterclass events, and 1-1 training. My favourite style of makeup is most definitely vibrant. I love a colourful eyeshadow palette... or 10!

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A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

With Specialist Consultation From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

With Specialist Consultation From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

Claire is a qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist; she provides professional makeup services for all occasions, from bridal to backstage at photoshoots. Claire also teaches masterclass events as well as 1-1 training. She's a big fan of the vibrant style and loves a colourful palette... or 10!


Keep up-to-date with Claire through her Facebook and Instagram page, where you can learn the latest tips and tricks when it comes to makeup applications and also get inspired to try new looks! 

How to Choose an Eye Makeup Remover in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Select a Formula According to Your Skin Type
  2. Verify That the Eye Makeup Remover Is Suitable to Remove Waterproof Makeup
  3. Sensitive Skin-types Should Avoid Fragrance to Prevent Irritation
  4. Watch Out for Cruelty Free Products
1

Find a Formula That Suits Your Skin Type and Needs: Micellar Water Is Gentle on Sensitive Skin, Cleansing Balms Are Best for Removing Heavy Eye Makeup

Find a Formula That Suits Your Skin Type and Needs: Micellar Water Is Gentle on Sensitive Skin, Cleansing Balms Are Best for Removing Heavy Eye Makeup

Liquid Eye Makeup Removers Like Micellar Water, Oil-Based Cleaners and Lotions Are the Easiest to Use

Liquid formulas are usually the easiest and most straightforward to use – simply pour onto a cotton pad and wipe your makeup away, or use them in the form of a pre-soaked pad. Micellar water is a mild surfactant made up of cells called ‘micelles’ that surround oil and dirt cells, pulling them away from your skin in gently yet effectively. If you have dry or sensitive skin, this is the most gentle option available for you.


Discover the best micellar waters here.


Liquid formulas can also be oil-based, which is especially great for waterproof makeup, as oil is the most effective for removing stubborn makeup. But these can leave an oily residue which may require extra cleansing, and may not suit acne-prone skin types. There are also milk-based lotions which use a blend of emollients, a great option for those with dry or sensitive skin as they are very gentle and do not dry out the skin.


Look no further for your new favourite cleansing oil!

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Removers in the form of a liquid typically come in tubes or bottles designed to easily decant by pouring or squeezing. If you wear waterproof products, an oil-based remover breaks down makeup, enabling it to detach without harsh pulling of the skin. 


Milk and waters are lightweight and gentle, making them suitable for a dry or sensitive skin type. Massage the product into the skin and then remove with a reusable cleaning pad, a clean flannel or merely your hands with splashes of warm water.

Solid Cleansing Balms Are Good for Removing Dark Eye Makeup, Glitter and Lashes

If liquid formulas are not for you, how about a solid formula? These are usually solid oil-based and come in pots, which is great if you are travelling often as there’s no worry of spills in your cosmetics case. Simply scoop some of the solid cleanser and massage it into your face, allowing the massaging motion to melt the cleanser onto your skin while lifting makup and debris.


If you like to wear lots of heavy eye makeup with thick mascara and bold eyeliner, solid formulas are a great option for you as they are usually better for heavy-duty cleansing than liquids. They will also help keep your skin moisturised and give your pores a deep cleansing.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Solid balm to oil cleansers are practical for on the go use and will be found packaged in a tub or tin. They conveniently won’t spill but be sure not to leave them in hot conditions as they can be susceptible to leaking if melting occurs. 


With approximately a blueberry sized amount of product, massage the balm until it melts against the warmth of your skin. This formula will break down stubborn heavy makeup but can leave behind an oily film on the skin. This is why a second cleanse should be carried out to remove the derbies of your remover.

Gel Makeup Removers Provide a Cooling Sensation for Those With Sensitive Eyes

Gel makeup removers aren’t as common, but are slowly rising in popularity due to the benefits they offer. Namely, the fact that they are nice and light and provide a lovely cooling sensation whilst soothing redness and irritation. They are used by pouring the gel on a cotton pad and wiping around your eyes – with the gel surrounding your makeup to help pull it away from your skin. 


Falling somewhere in between a liquid and a solid formula, they are a good choice for those with dry skin who hate the feeling of oil cleansers, as well as oily, combination and sensitive skin types. Gel-type removers are effective at removing makeup without stripping your skin of essential oils or causing irritation.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Gel removers are light, refreshing and have a cooling effect on the skin. This is why they’re commonly suited to sensitive skin and dry types; and those who experience redness. The non-sticky formula glides on effortlessly, leaving the skin feeling rejuvenated and calmed with a low risk of experiencing any burning sensations.

2

If You Wear Waterproof Mascara or Eyeliner, Check Whether the Eye Makeup Remover Is Compatible

If You Wear Waterproof Mascara or Eyeliner, Check Whether the Eye Makeup Remover Is Compatible

An essential thing to look out for is whether the eye makeup remover can remove waterproof makeup. Formulas for sensitive skin are usually very gentle and unable to remove all waterproof makeup, which means you can potentially be left with dark stains around your eyes! If you can't live without your waterproof eye makeup, make sure to check that the cleanser is waterproof compatible.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Ensure to select the most compatible consistency when removing heavy duty makeup, such as waterproof mascara, long-wear lipsticks or full coverage foundation. Water, milk or gel-based removers are on the delicate side so they can still leave behind traces of stubborn makeup. Opt for a cleanser that works in conjunction with waterproof formulas for best results.

3

Choose an Ophthalmologist-Tested Eye Makeup Remover for Use With Contact Lenses

Choose an Ophthalmologist-Tested Eye Makeup Remover for Use With Contact Lenses

Another vital factor to check for some shoppers would be whether your eye makeup remover is ophthalmologist tested. This means it has been tested and approved by an eye doctor so it is safe for your eyes. If you wear contact lenses, this is absolutely essential, as otherwise, your eyes may sting and become irritated every time you remove your makeup. 

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

If you are conscious about experiencing discomfort when removing your makeup, check on the product packaging for the following claims: Ophthalmologist-tested, suitable for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. These specific products should reduce the risk of irritation, stinging sensations and further sensitivity for contact lens users.

4

If You Have Sensitive Skin, Pick a Fragrance-Free Product to Avoid Irritating Your Eyes

If You Have Sensitive Skin, Pick a Fragrance-Free Product to Avoid Irritating Your Eyes

If you are conscious about experiencing discomfort when removing your makeup, check on the product packaging for the following claims: Ophthalmologist-tested, suitable for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. These products should reduce the risk of irritation, stinging sensations and further sensitivity for contact lens users.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

If you’re someone who loves a scented product, ensure all the scents you’re using harmonise and won’t be overpowering. For example, if your foundation or powders have a perfumed or sweet smell, choose a lighter scent in your skincare products, such as florals. If you favour synthetic fragrance-free products, you can still enjoy beautiful scents from natural ingredients instead. For example, coconut or aloe vera or almonds.

5

Look For the Leaping Bunny Logo to Make Sure Your Eye Makeup Remover Is Cruelty-Free

Look For the Leaping Bunny Logo to Make Sure Your Eye Makeup Remover Is Cruelty-Free

Finally, something that is becoming an increasingly important issue nowadays is whether products are cruelty-free or vegan. Contrary to popular belief, these are not the same thing as cruelty-free means the product has not been tested on any animals, whereas vegan means there are no animal-derived ingredients in the product.


This is very important to consumers who may be trying to live a cruelty-free and environmentally-conscious lifestyle, which is why we have labelled all our makeup removers as such so you can make an ethical choice if you wish to.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Many consumers are becoming increasingly aware of what is in their products and how it has been tested. If you’re unsure whether a brand is cruelty-free, keep an eye out for the internationally recognised logo of the leaping bunny. This means no animal testing has been carried out to develop the product.

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10 Best Eye Makeup Removers in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Elemis

White Flowers Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover

Elemis White Flowers Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover 1

£21.04

High Mid

Gentle yet Effective Solution That Dissolves Longwear Makeup

2

Clinique

Take The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips

Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips 1

£19.00

Mid

Water-Based Cleanser for Removing Stubborn Eye Makeup

3

Lancôme

Bi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Cleanser Sensitive Eyes

Lancôme Bi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Cleanser Sensitive Eyes 1

£19.20

High Mid

Dual Formula That Won’t Leave an Oily Residue

4

Garnier

Skin Naturals 2-In-1 Eye Make-Up Remover

Garnier Skin Naturals 2-In-1 Eye Make-Up Remover 1

£2.54

Low Mid

Garnier’s 2-In-1 Remover for Waterproof Eye Makeup

5

The Body Shop

Camomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

The Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover 1

£8.99

Mid

A Soothing Lotion With Chamomile Extract

6

La Roche Posay

Respectissime Eye Make-Up Remover

La Roche Posay Respectissime Eye Make-Up Remover 1

£11.00

Mid

100% Hypoallergenic and Enriched With Thermal Spring Water

7

Sisley

Triple Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser Face & Eyes

Sisley Triple Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser Face & Eyes 1

£88.00

High

Nourishing Oil-Based Eye Makeup Remover Balm for Dry Skin

8

Simple

Kind to Eyes Eye Make-Up Remover

Simple Kind to Eyes Eye Make-Up Remover 1

£1.50

Low

An Oil-Free Formula That's Tough On Waterproof Makeup

9

Nivea

Daily Essentials Double Effective Eye Make-up Remover

Nivea Daily Essentials Double Effective Eye Make-up Remover 1

£1.94

Low Mid

Eye Make-up Remover With Two-Phase Extra Strength Formula

10

Clarins

Instant Eye Makeup Remover

Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover 1

£21.00

High Mid

Ultra-effective Instant Eye Make-up Remover Lotion

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

ElemisWhite Flowers Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover

White Flowers Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£21.04
High Mid
Reference price
£21.04
High Mid

Gentle yet Effective Solution That Dissolves Longwear Makeup

This elemis White Flowers Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover is a gentle yet effective solution that removes all your eye and lip makeup easily, including the most stubborn and waterproof ones. More than just a makeup remover, it is also enriched with nourishing skincare ingredients.


Peony flower petals soothe tired and irritated eyes while moisturising the skin. White tea is high in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from UV rays and pollutants. Vitamin B5 is utilised for its conditioning effects, which aid in the relief of sensitive, dry, or irritated skin.

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No.2

CliniqueTake The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips

Take The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£19.00
Mid
Reference price
£19.00
Mid

Water-Based Cleanser for Removing Stubborn Eye Makeup

Clinique's Take the Day Off makeup remover is more than just a fast acting, cleansing eye makeup remover, as it's also able to remove stubborn, long-lasting lipstick formulas too, even those that stain!


With a two-way formula, simply shake to activate and soak a cotton pad to gently wipe away at your eyes and lips. Its unique and powerful formula ensures that you won't have to rub hard to remove even the most stubborn types of makeup, suitable to use on delicate areas.

No.3

LancômeBi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Cleanser Sensitive Eyes

Reference price
£19.20
High Mid

Dual Formula That Won’t Leave an Oily Residue

Lancôme's eye makeup remover is another cult beauty favourite, even winning InStyle's Best Beauty Buys Award as one of their top-rated favourites for eye makeup removers. It's suitable for sensitive eyes and is ophthalmologist-approved for contact lens wearers.


The bi-phase oil and water-based formula is activated when shaken, allowing you to gently and easily remove even your waterproof makeup. Better yet, this formula doesn't leave an oily residue so you can skip straight to the next part of your skincare routine!

No.4

GarnierSkin Naturals 2-In-1 Eye Make-Up Remover

Skin Naturals 2-In-1 Eye Make-Up Remover 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£2.54
Low Mid

Garnier’s 2-In-1 Remover for Waterproof Eye Makeup

This Garnier Express 2-in-1 Eye Makeup Remover is a good, inexpensive and accessible choice that is both waterproof makeup friendly and contact lens friendly. It's formula will not leave any residue or give you a sticky, greasy feeling.


Not only does it remove all makeup but it is enriched with arginine, meaning it helps to protect your skin and lashes. In fact, it even works to strengthen lashes whilst reducing fall-out and adding shine after just 4 weeks of use. 

No.5

The Body ShopCamomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

Camomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.99
Mid
Reference price
£8.99
Mid

A Soothing Lotion With Chamomile Extract

The Body Shop's Chamomile eye makeup remover is a soothing milk formula that provides a gentle clean with a lovely cooling sensation on the skin. With no added fragrance, colour or alcohol, this formula is suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers.


With chamomile extract from Norfolk, this eye makeup remover also moisturises your lashes and lids, leaving them feeling softer than ever before. It can also be used to remove lipstick. It's delicate formulation makes it suitable for sensitive skin-types and contact lens wearers.

No.6

La Roche PosayRespectissime Eye Make-Up Remover

Reference price
£11.00
Mid

100% Hypoallergenic and Enriched With Thermal Spring Water

La Roche-Posay are a cult beauty favourite, favoured for their ingredients that are tailored for sensitive, redness-prone and ageing skin. Their products are all fragrance, parabens and colourant-free, as well as being non-comedogenic and following strict standards to ensure a 100% hypoallergenic product.


Their eye makeup remover is enriched with thermal spring water and is able to effectively remove all your waterproof makeup whilst being gentle on your delicate eye area and skin with no need for excessive rubbing. 

No.7

SisleyTriple Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser Face & Eyes

Triple Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser Face & Eyes 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Triple Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser Face & Eyes 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£88.00
High
Reference price
£88.00
High

Nourishing Oil-Based Eye Makeup Remover Balm for Dry Skin

A solid cleansing balm that is ophthalmologically and dermatologically tested, this is the perfect product for those with particularly dry skin or who prefer to wear thick and heavy waterproof cosmetics.


After massaging, watch your makeup melt off your skin with a variety of nourishing and softening oils from babassu and shea to macadamia. Though a definite splurge, this cleanser leaves your skin soft and supple and completely makeup-free without any greasy or oily residue.

No.8

SimpleKind to Eyes Eye Make-Up Remover

Reference price
£1.50
Low

An Oil-Free Formula That's Tough On Waterproof Makeup

Simple is a great cruelty-free and vegan brand focused on simple, natural ingredients that are kind to all skin types, but especially sensitive skin. This eye makeup remover is an oil-free liquid formula, with ingredients such as micellar water and Pro-Vitamin B5 that are gentle on your skin.


Better yet, despite being oil-free and good for sensitive skin, this makeup remover still manages to remove waterproof makeup without much rubbing or tugging which could irritate the delicate skin around your eye area.

No.9

NiveaDaily Essentials Double Effective Eye Make-up Remover

Reference price
£1.94
Low Mid

Eye Make-up Remover With Two-Phase Extra Strength Formula

This makeup remover from Nivea is a bi-phase product that's perfect to use at home or on-the-go. The oil phase is formulated to remove even the most stubborn waterproof eye makeup, quickly and easily without rubbing or tugging, and leaving no oily residue behind.


Meanwhile, the aqueous phase is a special formula infused with Cornflower Extract to efficiently cleanse the sensitive eye area while protecting the lashes. We love this vegan and cruelty-free product that is both dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested.

No.10

ClarinsInstant Eye Makeup Remover

Instant Eye Makeup Remover 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£21.00
High Mid
Reference price
£21.00
High Mid

Ultra-effective Instant Eye Make-up Remover Lotion

Instantly remove long-wearing and waterproof eye makeup with The Clarins instant eye make-up remover. Enriched with rose and cornflower, they moisturise and soothe the skin, while ultra-fine oils soften the skin and improve the cleanser's ability.


This make-up remover lotion is suitable for all skin types and leaves skin clean and radiant day after day. It is suitable for contact lens wearers and does not hurt even the most delicate of eyes. It is, however, one of the more expensive options on this list.

Tips on How to Remove Eye Makeup Correctly

Pour some eye makeup remover onto a toning cloth or cotton pad and gently press down on each eye for around 20 seconds to let it dissolve. Doing this will allow the makeup to come off without excessive rubbing or tugging. If there are still some stains or mascara left, gently wipe them off with a downward motion.


Check out these reusable cotton pads that will help you do the trick while being eco-friendly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Eye Makeup Remover Cause Dry Eyes?

Yes! The eye is a very delicate area as it's the thinnest skin in the body, so using a scrub can cause micro-tears or broken blood vessels, which in some cases, can also lead to infections. So, go with a makeup remover with low water content, as most liquid ones have preservatives that can lead to dry eyes. 

Can I Use Eye Makeup Remover With Eyelash Extensions?

You can, but avoid doing it often as it could damage your eyelash extensions, making them fall sooner than they should. Also, avoid using makeup remover wipes and heavy, oil-based removers. Micellar waters aren't suitable for extensions either. If you wish to remove your makeup while wearing eyelash extensions, opt for oil-free or water-based solutions.

Written and researched by Dodo Wang

Top 5 Eye Makeup Removers

No. 1: ElemisWhite Flowers Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover

No. 2: CliniqueTake The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips

No. 3: LancômeBi-Facil Non-Oily Instant Cleanser Sensitive Eyes

No. 4: GarnierSkin Naturals 2-In-1 Eye Make-Up Remover

No. 5: The Body ShopCamomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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