Removing Makeup Is the Bane of My Existence—These Under-$20 Options Make It Easy

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(Image credit: @maggie_mccormack)

I have a love-hate relationship with makeup removal. In theory, it's the best. I look forward to it after a long day of wearing foundation, concealer, blush, and mascara. It feels like I'm rinsing away the day. Plus, revealing fresh, clean skin is such a delight when I get to top it off with my favorite skincare products

In practice, though, I dread it. I'm often tired when it comes time to do it, and standing in front of the sink while scrubbing at my face sounds less than appealing, especially if I'm stuck with a product that doesn't do the job. There's nothing more annoying than putting in the time and effort to properly remove makeup, only to see streaks and smudges on white towels. 

However, don't be duped into thinking you have to spend a lot of money in order to find a makeup remover that, well, removes makeup. You don't. In fact, some of the best ones are from the drugstore. For proof, keep scrolling to see the 14 best drugstore makeup removers, according to me (a clean skin obsessed beauty editor) and the internet. 

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(Image credit: @naaomiross)

What to Look for in a Makeup Remover

First and foremost, you need to know what to look for in a makeup-removing product. Obviously, you want it to work, but you also want it to suit your skin type and your specific skin concerns. Here's a good rule of thumb to follow. Dry skin? Try an emollient cleansing oil or balm. These can dissolve makeup while giving the skin much-needed moisture. Oily or acne-prone skin? Ditch the oils and balms and reach for a lightweight, oil-free formula instead (such as micellar water). These can whisk away makeup without clogging pores. Normal or combination skin? Try both and choose whichever experience you like better. 

Ahead, see the 14 best drugstore options, regardless of skin type or texture. 

Overall Best: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

E.l.f. Cosmetics Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm

CeraVe Comforting Eye Makeup Remover

Bliss Makeup Melt Jelly Facial Cleanser

Byoma Melting Cleansing Balm

Neutrogena Oil-Free Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

The Inkey List Oat Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Makeup Remover Cleanser

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser Waterproof Makeup Remover

CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm

Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover

Acure Seriously Soothing Jelly Milk Makeup Remover

La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin

Kaitlyn McLintock
Associate Beauty Editor

Kaitlyn McLintock is an Associate Beauty Editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing . Although she covers a wide range of topics across a variety of categories, she specializes in celebrity interviews and skincare and wellness content. Having lived in Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, she recently relocated back to her home state of Michigan where she works remotely. Prior toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she freelanced for a variety of industry-leading digital publications, including InStyle, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Hello Giggles, and Coveteur. Before that, she held a long-term internship and subsequent contributor position at Byrdie. When she's not writing, researching, or testing Wholesale Replica Bag and greatest beauty products, she's working her way through an ever-growing book collection, swimming in the Great Lakes, or spending time with family.