Clinical dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman said, "I like oil based cleansers. The oil will help to break down the makeup, making it easier to remove. Use a clean cotton pad to limit pressure applied on the lashes." Akridge and Kennedy agreed, with Kennedy noting that makeup wipes are too harsh on the skin and should be avoided. "In chemistry, there is and expression: 'like dissolves like,'" said Akridge. "Meaning, if you have makeup that is oil-based you should use an emollient and solvent that is also oil-based to melt it away." My current favorite oil cleanser is the Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil ($48).
Darden also added that micellar water and gel cleansers can be very effective. However, you should be aware of the formulation of your makeup before deciding what makeup remover works best. Micellar waters can be great makeup removers if you're wearing something gentle, but tougher formulations call for more aggressive removers. For micellar water, I always recommend Garnier's SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & Makeup Remover ($9), and for a gentle gel cleanser, I've been loving the Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser ($34).
