toner to remove makeup

15 OF THE BEST MAKEUP REMOVERS THAT DO NOT DISAPPOINT

Taking off your makeup shouldn’t feel like a chore. But let’s be honest, some makeup removers leave a greasy residue, struggle with waterproof mascara, or irritate your skin. Not ideal! Here’s where this list comes in. We’ve scoured the beauty world to find the 15 MVP makeup removers that effectively dissolve every trace of makeup, from long-wear foundation to budge-proof eyeliner, all while being gentle on your skin. Whether you’re a balm devotee, a micellar water enthusiast, or an oil cleansing aficionado, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover your new holy grail makeup remover that will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to breathe (without the stinging or dryness!).

OUR TOP PICKS 

BIODERMA SENSIBIO H2O – 16.7 OZ.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O in the 16.7 oz (500 ml) size is a popular choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover, especially for sensitive skin. This micellar water utilizes micelles, tiny oil molecules suspended in water, to attract and remove makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils. Known for its fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula, Bioderma Sensibio H2O soothes the skin and can be used on both the face and eyes. The larger 16.7 oz size is ideal for those who use makeup remover daily or prefer a more cost-effective option.

GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is a drugstore favorite known for its ability to cleanse and remove makeup gently. It utilizes micellar technology similar to Bioderma Sensibio H2O, with micelles capturing dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing. This Garnier micellar water is generally suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula. It’s a convenient option for those who want an all-in-one cleanser and makeup remover, leaving skin feeling refreshed and clean.

ELTAMD OIL-IN-GEL CLEANSE

EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser offers a unique cleansing experience, combining the power of an oil cleanser to melt away makeup and sunscreen with the gentle touch of a gel cleanser. This innovative formula effectively dissolves long-wearing makeup, water-resistant sunscreen, and everyday impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Unlike some oil cleansers that can leave a greasy residue, EltaMD’s oil-in-gel transforms into a lightweight lather that rinses clean, leaving skin feeling fresh and comfortable. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won’t clog pores).

ALGENIST GENIUS ULTIMATE ANTI-AGING MELTING CLEANSER

Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser is a luxurious option that promises to cleanse, remove makeup, and deliver anti-aging benefits in one step. This oil-based cleanser transforms into a milky emulsion upon contact with water, effectively dissolving makeup and impurities. The formula boasts Alguronic Acid, a brand-specific anti-aging ingredient, and Microalgae Oil, rich in nutrients, to visibly replenish and smooth the skin. However, keep in mind that oil-based cleansers might not be ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types, so it’s best suited for normal, dry, or combination skin.

SISLEY PARIS GENTLE MAKE-UP REMOVER

Sisley Paris Gentle Make-Up Remover is a high-end option designed to whisk away makeup while being kind to your skin. This 3-in-1 formula acts as a makeup remover, cleanser, and toner, eliminating the need for multiple products in your routine. It utilizes micellar technology to gently capture and remove makeup, even waterproof mascara, without harsh rubbing. Formulated with plant-based extracts like cornflower and chamomile, this Sisley makeup remover soothes and refreshes the skin, leaving it feeling comfortable and balanced. While it caters to all skin types, the gentle formula makes it particularly well-suited for those with sensitive skin. However, be prepared for a higher price tag compared to drugstore options.

CERAVE HYDRATING MAKEUP CLEANSING BALM

CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Cleansing Balm is a drugstore favorite known for its ability to gently remove makeup while moisturizing the skin. This balm-to-milch cleanser transforms from a solid balm into a milky texture upon contact with water, effectively dissolving makeup, dirt, and oil. Enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil, it cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling hydrated and comfortable. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

LA ROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER AND MAKEUP REMOVER FOR OILY SKIN

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water and Makeup Remover for Oily Skin is a targeted option designed to cleanse and remove makeup while catering to oily skin concerns. This micellar water utilizes micelles to capture dirt, oil, and makeup without harshly rubbing. The formula is specifically developed for oily, sensitive skin, incorporating La Roche-Posay’s prebiotic Thermal Water to soothe and Zinc PCA to help control oil and mattify the skin. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic makeup remover cleanses without clogging pores, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and less oily.

CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF MAKEUP REMOVER

Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover is a popular choice for its effectiveness in removing all traces of makeup, including long-wearing products and waterproof mascara. This oil-free formula utilizes a blend of cleansing ingredients to gently dissolve makeup without irritating the skin. Suitable for dry, combination, and oily skin types, it leaves a refreshed feeling without any greasy residue. This Clinique makeup remover is particularly beloved for its ability to cleanse the delicate eye and lip areas without causing stinging or dryness.

RHODE PINEAPPLE REFRESH CLEANSER

The Rhode Pineapple Refresh Cleanser is a revitalizing skincare product designed to gently cleanse and rejuvenate the skin. Infused with the natural goodness of pineapple enzymes, it effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities while promoting a brighter complexion. This cleanser is known for its refreshing tropical scent and its ability to leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. Suitable for all skin types, it balances cleansing with nourishment, making it a popular choice for those seeking a radiant and healthy glow.

IS CLINICAL CLEANSING COMPLEX

The iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is a powerful yet gentle facial cleanser formulated to effectively cleanse the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. This versatile cleanser is enriched with a blend of bio-nutrients, antioxidants, and mild resurfacing ingredients to deeply cleanse pores, remove impurities, and refine texture. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. With regular use, the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex helps to improve the overall clarity, tone, and smoothness of the skin, leaving it refreshed, balanced, and radiant.

EVE LOM THE CLEANSER

Eve Lom’s The Cleanser is a luxurious and iconic skincare product renowned for its effectiveness in thoroughly cleansing the skin while providing nourishment and hydration. This multi-award-winning cleanser is formulated with a unique blend of aromatic plant oils, including eucalyptus, clove, and chamomile, which work together to dissolve makeup, impurities, and pollutants, leaving the skin feeling deeply cleansed and refreshed. The rich, balm-like texture melts upon contact with the skin, allowing for a luxurious massage experience that promotes circulation and lymphatic drainage. Additionally, The Cleanser comes with a muslin cloth, which helps to gently exfoliate and polish the skin, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types, this cult-favorite cleanser delivers spa-like results from the comfort of your own home.

MAYBELLINE EXPERT EYES OIL FREE EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is a trusted product designed specifically for effectively and gently removing eye makeup. Formulated without oil, it efficiently dissolves stubborn eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and long-wearing eyeliner, without leaving behind any greasy residue. This gentle yet powerful formula is ophthalmologist-tested, making it safe for use around the delicate eye area and suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers. The Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover leaves the skin around the eyes feeling clean, refreshed, and free from makeup, allowing for a comfortable and soothing experience.

CETAPHIL GENTLE WATERPROOF MAKEUP REMOVER

Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover is a dermatologist-developed formula crafted to effectively remove stubborn makeup while remaining gentle on the skin. Specifically designed for waterproof and long-lasting makeup, this remover effortlessly lifts away impurities without causing irritation or drying out the skin. Its non-greasy and fragrance-free formulation makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With a blend of gentle yet effective ingredients, including aloe vera and soothing botanicals, Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed after each use. It’s a trusted choice for those seeking a reliable makeup remover that respects the skin’s natural balance.

TATCHA PURE ONE-STEP CAMELLIA CLEANSING OIL

Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil is a luxurious skincare essential meticulously crafted to gently yet effectively remove makeup and impurities from the skin. Infused with precious botanical oils, including camellia and rice bran, this cleansing oil effortlessly dissolves even the most stubborn makeup while nourishing and hydrating the skin. Its lightweight and silky texture glides smoothly across the skin, transforming into a milky emulsion upon contact with water, rinsing away without leaving any residue. This non-comedogenic formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and radiant, making it an indulgent addition to any skincare routine.

AVENE XERACALM A.D LIPID-REPLENISHING CLEANSING OIL

Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is a gentle yet effective skincare solution tailored for those with dry, itchy, and eczema-prone skin. Formulated with a high concentration of Avene Thermal Spring Water, this cleansing oil provides immediate soothing and calming relief to irritated skin. Enriched with a unique blend of lipid-replenishing oils, including evening primrose oil and ceramides, it helps restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier while gently cleansing away impurities and allergens. This soap-free and fragrance-free formula is specifically designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation, making it suitable for infants, children, and adults alike. Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil leaves the skin feeling nourished, comfortable, and replenished, promoting long-lasting hydration and relief from dryness and discomfort.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST MAKEUP REMOVERS

Choosing the best makeup remover depends on two main factors: your skin type and your makeup routine. Here’s a breakdown to help you find your perfect match:

CONSIDER YOUR SKIN TYPE

  • Dry Skin: Opt for oil-based removers, balms, or cleansing creams. These gently dissolve makeup without stripping natural oils, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. Examples include EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Cleansing Balm, or Eve Lom Cleanser.
  • Oily Skin: Micellar water is a great choice for oily skin. It effectively removes makeup and dirt without leaving a greasy residue. Look for formulas specifically designed for oily skin, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water.
  • Combination Skin: You might find success with a cleansing balm or oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas are key! Micellar waters or gentle cleansing balms are good options. Look for ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid for added hydration. Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover or Bioderma Sensibio H2O are popular choices.

THINK ABOUT YOUR MAKEUP ROUTINE

  • Heavy Makeup Wearer: If you wear a lot of makeup, especially waterproof mascara or eyeliner, an oil-based cleanser or balm might be more effective for complete removal. Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover is a good example.
  • Light Makeup Wearer: Micellar water or a gentle cleansing balm might be sufficient for a light makeup routine.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

  • Read Reviews: See what others with similar skin types are saying about different makeup removers.
  • Consider a Double Cleanse: For heavy makeup or oily skin, you can try double cleansing. First, use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, then follow with a water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin, always do a patch test on your inner arm before using a new makeup remover on your face.

CONCLUSION 

Washing away the day shouldn’t be a battle. With this diverse range of makeup removers, you can find the perfect solution to melt away every trace of makeup, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for the next step in your skincare routine. Whether you crave a gentle micellar water, a luxurious cleansing balm, or an oil-based cleanser that conquers waterproof mascara, this list has you covered. Remember to consider your skin type and makeup needs to find your ideal match. Happy cleansing!

15 BEST TONERS FOR DRY SKIN

Dry skin can feel tight, rough, and flaky. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather, genetics, and aging. Toners can be a great addition to your skincare routine for dry skin, as they can help to remove impurities, balance your skin’s pH, and prepare it for moisturizer. But with so many toners on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here’s a guide to the 15 best toners for dry skin.

OUR TOP PICKS 

CERAVE HYDRATING TONER

CeraVe’s soothing toner offers a refreshing dose of hydration and nourishment for your skin, thanks to its key ingredients including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. This 6.8 oz product is particularly well-suited for individuals with active skincare routines, as it replenishes moisture and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Despite some reports of stickiness by a few reviewers, its hydrating formula leaves skin feeling soothed and revitalized.

ELTAMD SKIN RECOVERY ESSENCE TONER

This toner from CeraVe is suitable for all skin types due to its gentle formula and high-quality ingredients. Free of alcohol and fragrance, it preserves the skin’s natural oils and features a patented blend of amino acids that soothe irritation and enhance the skin barrier. Reviewers praise its effectiveness in reducing pore size and improving wrinkles, with noticeable results from the first use. However, a few users found the formula to be too drying for their skin. Available in a 7.3 oz size, this toner offers gentle and calming benefits for a variety of skincare needs.

TOWER 28 SOS DAILY RESCUE FACIAL SPRAY

Tower28’s red spray bottle toner has garnered popularity for its gentle, non-irritating formula that improves skin tone and is suitable for all skin types. Free of fragrance and housed in a convenient spray bottle, this toner contains hypochlorous acid, known for its calming and purifying properties. Endorsed by the National Eczema Association, it effectively soothes eczema flare-ups, inflamed acne, and perioral dermatitis. While some users find the spray a bit harsh, the lightweight formula quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it hydrated, radiant, and refreshed. Despite the desire for a finer mist, the toner’s efficacy in calming irritation and promoting skin healing makes it a popular choice among skincare enthusiasts.

PAULA’S CHOICE SKIN PERFECTING 6% MANDELIC ACID + 2% LACTIC ACID LIQUID EXFOLIANT

If you’re looking for a toner that gently exfoliates while also hydrating dry skin, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant is a great option. This unique formula combines two alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) – mandelic acid and lactic acid – to remove dead skin cells without irritation. Mandelic acid is known for being gentler on skin than other AHAs, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin. Lactic acid, a naturally occurring AHA, helps to hydrate and plump the skin. This exfoliating toner can help to improve the appearance of dry skin by smoothing rough texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and brightening the complexion. It’s also formulated to be fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY DAILY GLOW TONER WITH NIACINAMIDE

Charlotte Tilbury’s lightweight solution is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t contain any harsh acids. It uses niacinamide, a type of vitamin B3, which helps to brighten the skin and has multiple benefits like calming, moisturizing, and strengthening the skin. Sephora customers love it because it’s gentle, clears pores, and improves skin texture, making it great for preparing the skin before applying makeup. It’s particularly good for people using strong retinoids, as it doesn’t contain drying or irritating ingredients like BHA or AHA. Even if you’re using retinol, you can safely use this product alongside it. It’s praised for its nice texture and hydrating formula, but it’s on the pricey side. You get 5 ounces of product in each bottle.

SK-II CLEAR LOTION SKIN TONER

The SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner is praised for its ability to deeply cleanse and exfoliate the skin without any fragrance. It’s suitable for all skin types. The main ingredient, Pitera™, along with AHAs, helps to improve skin texture by providing essential nutrients. Users find it hydrating and soothing, noticing immediate improvements in dullness and texture. It effectively cleans pores, even picking up dirt missed during face washing. However, some users note that the bottle can leak a bit, so caution is advised when pouring the slightly runny solution from the frosted bottle.

LA MER THE ESSENTIAL TONIC

La Mer’s The Essential Tonic is a luxurious choice for hydrating and refreshing your skin. Despite being on the pricey side, its key ingredients, including Miracle Broth and marine ferment, provide deep moisture and soothing benefits. It’s designed to complement La Mer’s Creme de La Mer moisturizer, enveloping your skin in hydration. With a perfect 5-star rating on Sephora, it’s hailed as the best splurge toner for those looking to indulge in high-quality skincare. Available in a 6.7 oz size, this tonic offers a lavish addition to your skincare routine.

CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ ESSENTIAL REFINING ESSENCE

Toners like this one, which contain alcohol and succinic acid, are adept at managing sebum production, thus diminishing surface shine and greasiness on the skin. The incorporation of hyaluronic acid and glycerin in this formula is applauded for preventing excessive dryness. Many individuals with oily skin regard this toner as a valuable investment, commending its capacity to regulate oil levels and impart a revitalizing radiance that lasts all day. Users appreciate its cooling sensation and its ability to enhance makeup application. Nonetheless, it is considered expensive, and some reviewers express dissatisfaction with the scent. Each bottle holds 5.7 ounces of product.

MURAD CLARIFYING TONER

Many people who care about their skin choose the Murad Clarifying Toner to help get rid of blemishes and make their skin clearer and healthier. This toner has special things like witch hazel extract, which makes pores smaller and reduces redness. It also takes away extra oil and dirt from your skin without making it too dry. There are good things in it like grape seed extract and vitamin E that protect your skin from things that can make it worse, like pollution. People like how it feels fresh and makes their skin clean and full of energy. It’s great for skin that’s oily or gets acne often. Using the Murad Clarifying Toner can be an important part of making your skin look better and clearer.

SKINCARE JUNKIE PORE THERAPY DAILY TONER PADS

People who love taking care of their skin really like using Skincare Junkie Pore Therapy Daily Toner Pads. These pads have a strong formula that helps make your skin look fresh, brighter, and less crowded with dirt and oil. They have important stuff like salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid that clean out your pores and make your skin smoother. They also have fruit enzymes and PHAs that make your skin look better and feel nicer, along with hyaluronic acid that keeps your skin hydrated. On Amazon, they got a perfect 5-star rating, and people say they’re the best for getting beautiful skin. Each pack comes with 50 pads, so you have plenty for your everyday skincare routine.

THE ORDINARY GLYCOLIC ACID 7% TONING SOLUTION

In the quest for clearer skin, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution steps up as a champion for blemish-prone and acne-faring complexions. This toner packs a punch with 7% glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that acts as a chemical exfoliant. By gently dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, it helps clear clogged pores, reducing the appearance of blemishes and preventing future breakouts. However, unlike some harsh acne treatments, The Ordinary’s toner boasts a formulation that prioritizes balance. Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative is included to lessen the potential for irritation that AHAs can sometimes cause on sensitive skin. This toner also aims to improve overall skin texture and tone, promoting a smoother and brighter appearance. 

INNISFREE GREEN TEA HYALURONIC ACID TONER

Innisfree’s Green Tea Facial Toner is praised for its ability to calm and soothe irritated skin, thanks to its key ingredients: panthenol, hyaluronic acid, and green tea tri-biotics™. Green tea is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can effectively alleviate skin irritation, redness, and swelling. This toner harnesses the balancing benefits of green tea leaves in a lightweight liquid formula that feels gentle on the skin. With a size of 6.8 fluid ounces, this product offers ample supply for daily use. Keep in mind that Innisfree’s Green Tea Facial Toner is not cruelty-free.

HARUHARU WONDER BLACK RICE HYALURONIC TONER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

The Haruharu Wonder’s Black Rice toner is made especially for sensitive skin, giving it a gentle but good treatment. It has ingredients like rice extract and hyaluronic acid that calm and hydrate your skin. With fermented black rice extract and other good stuff, it helps sensitive skin. K-beauty is famous for using ingredients that soothe the skin without causing irritation, and this toner does just that. But, some people say it can sometimes make your skin feel a bit dry. Each bottle has 5.1 ounces of product, so you have enough for your skincare routine.

PIXI GLOW TONIC

For those with combination skin, which can be oily in some areas and dry in others, finding the right balance is key. Pixi Glow Tonic might be your perfect match. This toner contains 5% glycolic acid, a gentle yet effective AHA that exfoliates to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. This can help to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores in oily areas, while also promoting smoother texture and a brighter tone overall. Pixi Glow Tonic goes beyond just exfoliation, though. It’s formulated with soothing ingredients like ginseng and aloe vera to calm and hydrate, addressing dryness concerns. This balance of exfoliation and hydration makes it a good option for combination skin, helping to regulate oil production without stripping away essential moisture.

RENEE ROULEAU ELDERBERRY SOOTHING TONER

Infused with elderberry fruit extract, sodium PCA, and biosaccharide gum-1, this alcohol-free toner offers anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, perfect for sensitive skin. Users appreciate its ability to balance and relax the skin, preventing post-cleanse discomfort and promoting a healthy glow. Additionally, it’s noted for reducing hyperpigmentation and is suitable for sensitive, breakout-prone skin due to its minimal ingredient list. With anti-aging benefits packed in, this toner offers a comprehensive solution for skincare needs. Each bottle contains 6 fluid ounces of product, and it’s cruelty-free.

WHAT CAN FACIAL TONER DO FOR YOUR SKIN?

In the past, toners were mainly used to control oily skin and acne, especially in teenagers. But now, they’ve changed a lot. Toners today are made for different skin types and problems to help you take better care of your skin.

Usually, toners are used after washing your face to prepare it for other skincare products like serums and moisturizers. They work quickly to get into your skin and remove any leftover makeup or dirt. Some toners have acids that help remove dead skin cells and make your skin smoother. Others focus on hydrating your skin to keep it moisturized. Basically, the type of toner you use decides what it does for your skin.

HOW DO YOU APPLY FACIAL TONER?

Applying facial toner is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps:

Start with a freshly cleansed face: Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face and pat it dry with a clean towel.

Pour or spray the toner onto a cotton pad: Shake the toner bottle if needed, then pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad. Alternatively, some toners come in spray bottles, allowing you to mist it directly onto your face.

Swipe the cotton pad across your face: Gently sweep the saturated cotton pad across your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. Focus on areas that may be oilier or have more impurities, such as the forehead, nose, and chin (T-zone).

Allow the toner to dry: Let the toner absorb into your skin for a few seconds to a minute before moving on to the next step in your skincare routine.

Follow with moisturizer: Once the toner has dried, apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration and complete your skincare routine.

CONCLUSION

Do you really need toner? Yes, toner is really necessary for the skin. And finding the best toner for dry skin is important for maintaining hydrated and healthy skin. With many options available, it is essential to consider factors such as ingredients, hydration levels and skin sensitivity when choosing the right toner for your needs. From alcohol-free formulas infused with hyaluronic acid to soothing toners infused with plant extracts, there are toners designed to address specific dry skin concerns. (rewrite this)