The 5 Best Makeup Cleansers on Amazon in 2026

By TwelveTabs · Updated

Illustration: a clear pump bottle of amber liquid, a round cream jar with a navy lid and a stack of cotton pads on a cream shelf, drawn as a soft 3D render. Not a real product.

As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases. Our picks are independently researched, written by TwelveTabs AI and never sponsored.

The top picks

Our top pick is the Garnier Micellar Water, an all-in-one micellar water for the face, lips and eyes. We read 124 Amazon search cards for “makeup remover cleanser”, compared 13 finalists and kept five makeup cleansers of five different types.

For eye makeup and sensitive eyes, the e.l.f. Off Makeup Remover is a bi-phase remover, and it is Wirecutter’s pick in that type. The Neutrogena Micellar Wipes are the no-bottle option. For a balm, the JUNO & Co. Clean 10 keeps its ingredient list to ten, and for waterproof mascara and eyeliner, the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is the oil. Wirecutter’s top pick, a Bioderma micellar water, is in the comparison table next to ours.

The method

How this pick was made

Garnier Micellar Water Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover is the top pick. This is the work behind that choice.

  1. 96Amazon search results read, across 1 search
  2. 13finalist pages read in full
  3. 46shopper reviews read
  4. 2expert sources cross-checked: Wirecutter, Allure

Run on September 29, 2026. AI read the listings and what shoppers say, then wrote this guide. Full method and limits

Our picks in detail

The WinnerBest all-in-one micellar water
Garnier Micellar Water Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover

Garnier Micellar Water Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover

Best for: An all-in-one micellar water for face, lips and eyes

  • $8.39
  • 4.7 (75,226 reviews)5-star 85% · 1-star 1%
  • 50K+ bought last month
  • ★ Amazon's Choice
  • Pros Cleanses and removes makeup in one step
  • Cons Light formula, may need several passes on waterproof makeup

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026.

Run this search liveView on Amazon
Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing calls it an all-in-one cleanser and makeup remover that lifts makeup, dirt, sunscreen and excess oil in one step.
  • It is labelled dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested for the face, lips and eye area.
  • The formula is described as gentle enough for sensitive skin.
  • It is vegan and approved by Cruelty-Free International’s Leaping Bunny program, per its listing.
  • Wirecutter says micellar water is the lightest type of makeup remover, and that its micellar pick is the best multitasker of its three for removing makeup and cleansing.

Drawbacks

  • It is a light formula, so heavy waterproof makeup may need several passes (our inference from the type).
  • Micellar water is used on a cotton pad, so you need pads on hand.

Skip it if you wear heavy waterproof makeup every day and want it off in one swipe.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find this micellar water effective and appreciate that a little goes a long way. The product is gentle on sensitive skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed without drying out, and is suitable for both oily and dry skin types. They praise its makeup-removing capabilities, noting it gets everything off, and appreciate its clean scent and non-greasy formula.

Top AlternativeBest for eye makeup and sensitive eyes
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Off Makeup Remover

e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Off Makeup Remover

Best for: Eye makeup, sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers

  • $8.00
  • 4.5 (3,589 reviews)5-star 75% · 1-star 3%
  • 3K+ bought last month
  • ★ Amazon's Choice
  • Prime
  • Pros Gentle enough for contact lens wearers, per its listing
  • Cons No safety cap for travel

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026.

Run this search liveView on Amazon
Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing describes a non-greasy liquid makeup remover for the eyes and face.
  • It is called ophthalmologist-tested and gentle enough for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers.
  • It is enriched with hyaluronic acid, squalane and niacinamide, and made for normal, dry, oily and combination skin.
  • Wirecutter names it its best bi-phase makeup remover: it says the formula erases heavy mascara, long-wear eyeshadow and eyeliner in single swipes and wipes off without residue. Wirecutter’s own link for it goes to this listing.

Drawbacks

  • Wirecutter says it has no safety cap, and oil-forward bi-phase liquids can make a mess if spilled in a bag.
  • A bi-phase remover has an oil layer and a water layer, and Wirecutter shook it to combine before use.

Skip it if you toss your makeup remover loose in a bag without a case.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find this makeup remover effective, particularly for waterproof mascara, and appreciate that it's gentle on the skin, leaving it soft and moisturized. They consider it good value for money, with one customer noting it's better than high-end makeup brands.

Top Alternative
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Micellar Wipes, 2 Pack of 25 Count

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Micellar Wipes, 2 Pack of 25 Count

Best for: Quick removal that needs no bottle or pads

  • $9.97
  • 4.8 (122,021 reviews)5-star 87% · 1-star 1%
  • 100K+ bought last month
  • ★ Amazon's Choice
  • Pros Removes makeup including waterproof mascara, per its listing
  • Cons Single-use cloths make waste

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026.

Run this search liveView on Amazon
Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Pros

  • Removes makeup including waterproof mascara, per its listing
  • No bottle or cotton pads needed
  • Ophthalmologist-tested and hypoallergenic
  • Free of dyes, parabens, sulfates and alcohol

Cons

  • Single-use cloths make waste
  • Fifty wipes go quickly with daily use

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these makeup remover wipes effective, soft on the skin, and gentle enough for sensitive areas including eyes. They are easy to use, removing even waterproof mascara, and customers appreciate that they don't irritate skin and stay moist without leaving it dry. While many customers report no stinging or burning, some mention experiencing burning sensations.

Top Alternative
JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover, 3 oz

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover, 3 oz

Best for: A cleansing balm with only 10 ingredients

  • $14.99
  • 4.6 (18,183 reviews)5-star 78% · 1-star 3%
  • 10K+ bought last month
  • #1 Best Seller
  • Pros Only 10 ingredients
  • Cons Balms need wiping or rinsing

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026.

Run this search liveView on Amazon
Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Pros

  • Only 10 ingredients
  • Rinses clean, leaving no residue
  • Pearl barley extract
  • Fresh scent

Cons

  • Balms need wiping or rinsing
  • Small 3 oz jar

Amazon's review summary

Customers find the cleansing balm effective at removing makeup and appreciate its divine fragrance. The product leaves skin feeling moisturized without drying it out, and customers consider it good value for money, comparing it favorably to more expensive alternatives.

Top Alternative
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover, 6.7 oz

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover, 6.7 oz

Best for: Stubborn waterproof mascara and eyeliner

  • $23.62
  • 4.6 (24,386 reviews)5-star 82% · 1-star 3%
  • 9K+ bought last month
  • ★ Amazon's Choice
  • Pros Breaks down waterproof mascara and eyeliner, per its listing
  • Cons Oil-based, may need a second cleanse

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026.

Run this search liveView on Amazon
Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Pros

  • Breaks down waterproof mascara and eyeliner, per its listing
  • Deeply cleanses with no oily residue
  • Organic olive oil and vitamin E
  • Rosemary leaf oil

Cons

  • Oil-based, may need a second cleanse
  • Lists rosemary leaf oil

Amazon's review summary

Customers find this cleansing oil to be the best makeup remover, leaving skin clean and soft without drying it out. The product takes off makeup easily and is non-greasy, with customers noting their face has never felt or looked better. While some customers say it doesn't irritate their skin and has a mild scent, others report it stings their eyes and has a terrible smell.

Expert picks

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Wirecutter's top pick

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

Wirecutter's top pick, shown next to ours so you can compare. Our picks may differ from the experts'.

  • $16.79
  • 4.8 (34,260 reviews)5-star 86% · 1-star 1%
  • 20K+ bought last month
View on Amazon

Compare the picks

Prices and ratings as of September 29, 2026. They change often, so check today's price on Amazon.

Our picks and Wirecutter's top pick, side by side
PictureProductOutcome
1Garnier Micellar Water Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup RemoverGarnier Micellar Water Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup RemoverType: Micellar water · Good for: Sensitive skinPrice $8.3950K+ bought last monthRating 4.775,226 reviews5-star 85% · 1-star 1%Winner. Best for: An all-in-one micellar water for face, lips and eyes
2e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Off Makeup Removere.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration Off Makeup RemoverType: Bi-phase remover · Good for: Sensitive eyesPrice $8.003K+ bought last monthRating 4.53,589 reviews5-star 75% · 1-star 3%Best for: Eye makeup, sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
3Neutrogena Makeup Remover Micellar Wipes, 2 Pack of 25 CountNeutrogena Makeup Remover Micellar Wipes, 2 Pack of 25 CountType: Micellar wipes · Good for: Waterproof mascaraPrice $9.97100K+ bought last monthRating 4.8122,021 reviews5-star 87% · 1-star 1%Best for: Quick removal that needs no bottle or pads
4JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover, 3 ozJUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover, 3 ozType: Cleansing balm · Good for: Short ingredient listPrice $14.9910K+ bought last monthRating 4.618,183 reviews5-star 78% · 1-star 3%Best for: A cleansing balm with only 10 ingredients
5DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover, 6.7 ozDHC Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover, 6.7 ozType: Cleansing oil · Good for: Waterproof mascaraPrice $23.629K+ bought last monthRating 4.624,386 reviews5-star 82% · 1-star 3%Best for: Stubborn waterproof mascara and eyeliner
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar WaterBioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar WaterType: Micellar water · Good for: Sensitive skinPrice $16.7920K+ bought last monthRating 4.834,260 reviews5-star 86% · 1-star 1%Wirecutter's top pick

How to choose a makeup cleanser

The products in this category fall into a few types. Wirecutter describes the three it picked from, and Allure sorts its own picks by type and by skin, such as dry or acne-prone skin.

  • Micellar water. Wirecutter calls it the lightest type: water, hydrating ingredients and micelles that attract makeup and oil, which the water rinses away. Its micellar pick is, it says, the best multitasker of its three for removing makeup and cleansing.
  • Bi-phase remover. Wirecutter says these have an oil layer and a water layer that you shake together, and they suit stubborn eye makeup. Some leave a greasy feel that calls for a face wash afterwards.
  • Balm. Wirecutter says balms dissolve waxy products like mascara and eyeliner but may need wiping and rinsing, because they have no watery phase.
  • Waterproof makeup. Wirecutter explains that waterproof makeup, water-resistant sunscreen and long-wear foundation are often oil-soluble, so a micellar water, bi-phase remover or balm can break them down where a face wash struggles.
  • A face wash is not a remover. Wirecutter says facial cleansers may irritate the eyes and need extra rubbing to remove cosmetics fully. That is why the face washes in Amazon’s results are not here.

What we left out, and why

We read 124 search cards, 105 different products, and the pages of 13 finalists. We kept five and left out:

  • CeraVe, La Roche-Posay and Vanicream face washes. Four of our finalists were face washes that list makeup removal as one use among several. Wirecutter says a facial cleanser may irritate the eyes and need extra rubbing to remove makeup fully.
  • Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm. Wirecutter picks the Fragrance-Free version. This listing’s title does not say Fragrance-Free, so we cannot tell it is the same product.
  • Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser & Makeup Remover. A fragrance-free cold cream that does the same job as pick 4.
  • Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil. A second cleansing oil next to pick 5.

Wirecutter’s top pick, Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, is in the comparison table. Its own link goes to this Amazon listing, and our search found it on the first page of results. We kept it out of the numbered picks so it shows once, labelled as Wirecutter’s, next to the micellar water we picked, the Garnier Micellar Water.

How we researched

On September 29, 2026 we read 124 Amazon search cards for “makeup remover cleanser”, 105 different products. AI compared them, set aside sponsored repeats and kits, read the pages of 13 finalists and chose five makeup cleansers of different types: micellar water, a bi-phase remover, wipes, a balm and an oil. AI wrote this guide from that research.

Listings change: we read them on September 29, 2026, and a size, formula or seller may differ today. Formulas and claims are the listing text as we read it, which the collector cut to about 200 characters per bullet. Skin reacts differently to every product, so a patch test on a small area is a sensible first step.

Prices, ratings and review counts come from Amazon and were read on September 29, 2026.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

What is the best makeup cleanser for waterproof mascara?

An oil, a balm or a bi-phase remover. The DHC Deep Cleansing Oil lists waterproof mascara and eyeliner among what it breaks down, and Wirecutter says the e.l.f. Off Makeup Remover erases mascara in single swipes.

Can you use a face wash to remove makeup?

For light makeup, some face washes list it as a use. Wirecutter says facial cleansers may irritate the eyes and need extra rubbing to remove everything, so it recommends a micellar water, bi-phase remover or balm for eye makeup.

Micellar water or cleansing balm?

Micellar water is lighter and needs a cotton pad, like the Garnier Micellar Water. A balm, like the JUNO & Co. Clean 10, is richer and rinses off. Wirecutter says the balm route may need wiping and rinsing. For more balms, see our cleansing balm guide.

Do makeup wipes work as a cleanser?

They remove makeup, and the Neutrogena Micellar Wipes list waterproof mascara among what they take off. They are single-use, so they are more about convenience than a full cleanse.

How did TwelveTabs choose these makeup cleansers?

TwelveTabs read the first two pages of Amazon results for “makeup remover cleanser”, set aside sponsored repeats and kits, and read the pages of 13 finalists. We kept five that cover different types of remover and checked the advice against Wirecutter and Allure. AI wrote this guide from that research. To see what TwelveTabs picks today, run the search yourself with the button on this page.

All Beauty guides