Applying makeup is time-consuming yet fun while removing makeup can leave you in literal tears, especially if you have sensitive eyes, not because of how hard it is but because of your makeup remover. So, what your makeup routine needs and deserves are the best eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes that can take off the most stubborn makeup without tugging, pulling, and most importantly crying.

These are specially formulated products that take care of the sensitive skin around the eyes and take off debris and makeup without any fuss. They are a must-have in your makeup routine, especially since waterproof and smudge-proof formulas have become the go-to choice for many. From oil-based makeup removers to water-based ones, there is a wide variety available in the market. They are tested and approved by ophthalmologists and dermatologists alike to be safe for your eyes. They are free of possible irritants, such as fragrance and alcohol, and keep your sensitive eyes protected. 

We tried and tested several products to bring you our top recommendations for makeup removers for sensitive eyes so that you can make safe choices for your eyes. They are tender, soothing, and offer a thorough cleanse with some additional skin benefits. Join us as we explore the best options for various skin types and needs.

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  Best for Sensitive Skin

  Grande Cosmetics GrandeVANISH Makeup Remover

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The only thing more important than a sunblock in your vanity is a makeup remover. This remover by Grande Cosmetics is extremely luxe and skin-friendly. Working true to the concept of less is more, all you need to do is dab a little liquid on a cotton pad and swipe it across your face. It removes long-lasting and waterproof makeup without any fuss. It's also has a non-greasy and non-irritating formula, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Moreover, it doesn't pull your lashes while you’re trying to get rid of mascara. 

2

Best Drugstore

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

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Help your skin and double cleanse with the cult-favorite Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water. Its non-irritating and non-drying watery formula is a holy grail for sensitive skin types. From dermatologists to celebrities, this drugstore eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes has received approvals from many for its effective yet gentle cleansing prowess. There is a good reason it has gone viral on TikTok. Drawing from our experience, we suggest holding the micellar water-soaked cotton pad against your eyes for a few seconds to get optimal results.

3

Pocket-friendly

Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

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To be shaken before use (and not stirred!), this ophthalmologist-approved eye makeup remover from Neutrogena gets the job done. It is specifically formulated to be used on the delicate skin around your eyes. Infused with a skin-friendly blend of ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and cucumber extracts, it effectively removes even the most stubborn makeup without causing any irritation. You can get the desired results without being harsh to your skin as no tugging or pulling is required with this makeup remover. As indicated by our tests, it works well for those who wear contact lenses.

4

Best for Dry Skin

Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Moisturizing Micellar Water Makeup Remover

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When we talk about sensitive skin, we have to talk about Bioderma because no other brand makes products for sensitive skin as well as they do. Their Micellar Water Makeup Remover is a class apart with its hydrating and moisturizing formula, making it a fan-favorite for dehydrated skin types. No wonder many claim it to be the best eye makeup remover for dry eyes. Our team discovered through using this product that it doesn't disturb the skin's pH balance as it is infused with fatty acid esters.

5

Best for Stubborn Makeup

La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

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Now you can remove your waterproof eye makeup without it taking forever with this effective eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes from La Roche-Posay. With its gentle formula, you can expect clean and fresh skin in just one or two swipes. It combines a mild water-based cleanser and gentle oils that get activated when shaken and removes waterproof makeup effectively. After putting it to the test, we discovered it can remove even the most stubborn mascara without stinging your eyes, making it one of the best liquid eye makeup removers. Moreover, it is safe for skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.

6

Best Splurge

TATCHA The Camellia Cleansing Oil

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Refresh your skin but with care, thanks to this sensitive eye makeup remover from TATCHA. Inspired by Japanese rituals, this oil-based cleanser is enriched with the goodness of camellia seed oil which not only cleanses but also nourishes the skin. It glides on the skin and removes makeup and excess oil without feeling heavy. When rinsed with warm water, it turns milky and melts away the remaining impurities. Based on our firsthand experience, we found this luxury eye makeup remover to be an incredible first-step cleanser for a double-cleansing routine.

7

Best for Daily Use

L'Oreal Paris Skin Expert Micellar Cleansing Water

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Go big or go home with this effective makeup remover for sensitive eyes from L'Oreal Paris. It comes in a huge bottle that will last you a long time. It has a powerful cleansing action that will melt away makeup, dirt, pollution, and other impurities in just one swipe. Its texture may feel similar to baby oil, however, it has an oil-free formula. When we trialed this product, we found that it may feel oily initially, but the feeling subsides after a few minutes.

8

Best Overall

Rimmel London Just Let It Go Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

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A gentle eye makeup remover that gets the job done without irritating, stinging, or burning your eyes—this is what you will get with the Rimmel London Eye Makeup Remover. No scrubbing or tugging is required to remove eye makeup, whether it is light or heavy. From eye shadows to brow tints, you can remove it all efficiently and effectively in just a few swipes. After conducting experiments with it, we found it suitable even for contact wearers.

9

Most Vegan

Beauty by Earth Erase Your Face Makeup Remover

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End your day with the best eye makeup remover for sensitive skin from Beauty by Earth. It has a gentle but powerful cleansing action that will remove all the dirt, pollution, grease, and makeup from your skin without causing any harm to the skin barrier. Formulated with key ingredients like organic green tea, cucumber extract, witch hazel, and organic aloe vera, it not only cleanses but also prevents breakouts. Our investigation demonstrated that it leaves your skin looking and feeling refreshed.

10

Best for All Skin Types

Klorane Eye Makeup Remover

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Experience a thorough but gentle cleansing with this hypoallergenic eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes from Klorane. It is infused with organically harvested cornflower, which is known to have skin-soothing properties. It makes skin soft and will last a long time as you only require a small amount. It has an oil-free formula that can be used with both cotton pads and Q-tips. Moreover, our findings show that it is made of clean ingredients and is free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and fragrances.

11

Eau Thermale Avène Gentle Eye Make-up Remover

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Eau Thermale Avène is a cult favorite skincare brand known for its gentle yet efficient products. Its eye makeup remover is no different. Made from spring water and cleansing oils, it is known to be the best mascara remover for sensitive eyes. Though, you may need a little more than usual for removing heavy makeup, rest assured that the job will get done. We have found from using this product that it has a gel-like texture that doesn't sting the eyes no matter how close to the waterline it may get.

12

Clarins Paris Instant Eye Make-Up Remover

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Remove all of the mascara completely, even the waterproof ones, without letting your eyes become a red, irritated, and watery mess with the best waterproof eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes from Clarins. It has a bi-phase formula that will not only cleanse but also moisturize the delicate skin around your eyes. There is no need for any tugging or rubbing. Our research indicates that it does not leave behind any residue and will keep your eyelashes intact and conditioned.

13

AHAVA Time To Clear Eye Make-up Remover

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Replenish the skin around your eyes with the help of this eye makeup remover from AHAVA. Its formula combines a mix of Dead Sea water and botanical oils that work together to remove even the most stubborn of makeup without causing any irritation, making it the best eye makeup remover for contact lens wearers. Based on our observations, this product is infused with skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber extract and will leave your eyes feeling refreshed.

14

SEPHORA Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

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Take away all the traces of your day with the SEPHORA Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover. It boasts an incredible line-up of ingredients, including cornflower extract and pro-vitamin B5. It takes off every bit of makeup with gentle swiping while soothing and softening skin. Moreover, it protects the skin's barrier and keeps it hydrated all day long, making it the best eye makeup remover for mature skin. After trying out this product, we found out that thanks to the presence of Procapil in its incredible ingredient list, this makeup remover also helps with the growth of eyelashes, making it a must-have in your skincare routine.

Finding the best eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes is no rocket science though it can feel overwhelming. We have tried to make things easier for you with our comprehensive guide. It will help you make an informed choice that best suits your routine and requirements. Here are some aspects you must consider to make that choice:

Skin Type and Concerns

Consider your skin type, whether it is normal, dry, combination, or oily, as different skin types have different requirements. For instance, a cream eye makeup remover or even hydrating cleansing balms work best for dry skin types as they help remove the makeup and leave the skin moisturized. Oily skin types should get an oil-based cleanser as it will also effectively remove the sebum. Though, you must be careful as not oil-based formulas may suit you. That's not all. You must also consider if you have certain skin issues like rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, or skin sensitivity.

Ingredients 

Check for the ingredients carefully and ensure that they are non-irritant and non-allergens. Look for natural and skin-soothing ingredients like chamomile, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, ginseng, cucumber extract, jojoba oil, and rose water. Avoid phthalates, sulfates, and mineral oils.

Formula 

Typically, eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes are oil-based, water-based, or a culmination of both. Choose the one depending on your skin type and needs.

Other Features

Look for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, pH-balanced, and ophthalmologist-tested products and claims. This will ensure that the makeup cleanser of your choice is ideal for your sensitive eyes.

Consult a Professional

You may also consult a dermatologist or an ophthalmologist. If you have a serious history of allergies and sensitivities, particularly around the eye area, seek recommendations and advice from these professionals.

Customer Reviews 

Check online reviews from other individuals with sensitive eyes. These real-life experiences will provide valuable insights into the product's effectiveness and suitability.

Here is a step-by-step guide (that’s also recommended by dermatologists) on how to gently and effectively remove makeup around the eyes:

• Start with washing your hands. This will prevent the transfer of dirt, oil, bacteria, and other impurities to the eyes.
• Read the instructions given on the makeup remover. If it is a two-phase remover, i.e., both water-based and oil-based formula, you must shake it gently to mix the components.
• Take a cotton pad and moisten it with the eye makeup remover. It should have enough to saturate the pad but not so much that it drips.
• Close your eyes and place the eye makeup remover-soaked cotton pad over your closed eye. Hold it in place gently for about 30 seconds. This will give enough time for the makeup to dissolve.
• Now, gently swipe the pad downward and away from the eye.
• Repeat as needed. Don't rub or tug at your delicate under-eye skin. You may increase the duration for which you press down the soaked cotton pad against your eyes for efficient removal.
• Press the soaked cotton pad on your lashes for about 30 to 40 seconds to remove the mascara and other traces of makeup on the eye.
• You may also use a Q-tip cotton swab to remove the liner along the waterline.
• Repeat the same for the other eye.
• Depending on the makeup remover, rinse it out with warm water. Follow up with a face cleanser to complete your double cleanse routine.
• Pat your skin dry with a clean and soft towel.
• Follow up with your regular skin care

Your eyes and the skin around them require special care, particularly when you have sensitive eyes. You must look for the best eye makeup removers for sensitive eyes as they are approved by ophthalmologists and dermatologists. They are thorough at makeup removal but gentle on the eyes and surrounding skin. They have skin-soothing properties as well and don't require you to scrub, tug, or pull at your skin. Just like your eyes, the process of choosing the right eye makeup remover also requires utmost care. And with our complete guide on makeup removers for sensitive eyes, you can find your ideal cleansing partner with ease.