The Best Natural Makeup Remover (19+ Products Ranked)
Last Updated: August 12, 2023
Today we’ll be looking at…
- The importance of choosing a natural makeup remover.
- The hidden dangers of conventional makeup remover.
- Ingredients of concern in makeup remover.
- The different types of makeup remover.
- The best clean makeup removers, rated on ingredients.
Are you tired of sifting through countless makeup removers, only to wonder which ones genuinely live up to their natural and safe claims?
Better Goods is an independent organization focusing on ingredient safety and efficacy. We deeply analyzed the ingredients in 15+ makeup removers for safety to find those that are truly clean and safe to use.
As the skin on our face is some of the most delicate there is, it’s very important to use a makeup remover at the end of each day that’s safe, effective, and won’t damage your skin in the long run.
The Importance of Choosing a Natural Makeup Remover
In recent years, the clean beauty movement has gained significant momentum, as an increasing number of individuals choose natural and clean products for their daily skincare routines. While the benefits of clean makeup options are widely recognized, the importance of selecting a natural makeup remover may not be as clear.
However, the makeup removers you use can have a significant impact on the health of your skin.
Conventional makeup removers often contain potentially harmful ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and alcohol. These chemicals can not only compromise your overall well-being but also negatively affect your skin’s health, leading to irritation, dryness, and even premature aging.
The skin on your face is delicate and deserves the utmost care. By using a natural makeup remover, you help preserve the skin’s natural barrier, reducing the likelihood of irritation from harsh chemicals. This is particularly important for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to breakouts and inflammation.
By choosing a natural makeup remover, you not only protect your skin from potential harm caused by harsh chemicals but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable beauty routine.
PSA: Not All “Clean” Makeup Removers are Actually Safe
Not all makeup removers are created equal, and even if you’re using a clean makeup remover, there’s no guarantee it’s free of harmful toxic ingredients.
While many companies advertise their products as natural and clean makeup removers, although they contain toxic ingredients, some truly craft high-quality, non-toxic makeup removers made with nourishing ingredients.
In an unregulated industry, it’s hard to know which brands are genuinely producing quality products free from toxins and irritants.
At Better Goods, we dive deep into the ingredients and claims in specific products to find the actual best natural makeup remover products.
The Hidden Dangers of Conventional Makeup Removers
The beauty industry is riddled with products containing potentially harmful ingredients, and makeup removers are no exception. Many conventional makeup removers contain a variety of concerning components that may adversely affect not only our skin but also our overall health.
From artificial fragrances—made up from a mystery cocktail of chemicals—to endocrine-disrupting parabens, there’s a wide array of hidden nasties to be found in the beauty section of your drugstore.
Ingredients of Concern In Makeup Removers
In this section, we will provide an objective analysis of the ingredients commonly found in makeup removers that may be of concern. By understanding the potential risks associated with these ingredients, you can make informed decisions about the products you choose to include in your skincare routine.
Synthetic Fragrances
A prevalent cause of skin irritation is the presence of fragrances or fragrance-related allergens in skincare products. A 2008 research study discovered that 83% of drugstore creams contained at least one ingredient that someone with a fragrance allergy could react to.
The term “fragrance” in product formulations is quite broad, encompassing a staggering 3059 distinct chemical components that can be used to create scents. More concerning is the fact that manufacturers are allowed to simply list “fragrance” on labels without disclosing the specific ingredients that comprise the fragrance.
Given the uncertainty surrounding the composition of most synthetic and undisclosed fragrances, we advise against purchasing products containing fragrances.
Ethoxylated Ingredients
Ingredients that have undergone ethoxylation, including PEGs (polyethylene glycols) and certain polysorbates, serve as emulsifiers, solvents, and stabilizers in makeup removers. The ethoxylation process has the potential to result in contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen in humans. Although 1,4-dioxane is typically found in minimal quantities, prolonged exposure could present health hazards.
Synthetic Dyes
Fans of the beauty and personal care industry have long debated the use of synthetic dyes. While these colorants were once derived from coal tar, modern production methods primarily rely on petroleum.
A recent study showed the use of specific flower extracts have potential use as safer dyes for cosmetics.
At Better Goods, we recommend steering clear of products containing artificial dyes as a general precaution.
Synthetic Parabens
Parabens serve as a means to inhibit microbial growth in products. However, parabens are considered potentially harmful chemicals as they have structural similarities to estrogen.
These compounds are often found on product labels as methyl-, butyl-, ethyl-, or propylparaben. Commonly utilized as preservatives in cosmetics, they can be absorbed through the skin and have been associated with cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity. Numerous studies have also connected parabens to breast cancer.
Since 2014, the European Union has prohibited using five parabens in cosmetics: Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Phenylparaben, Benzylparaben, and Pentylparaben. Reducing use of paraben containing products is definitely recommended to reduce exposure to these chemicals, but be aware of alternative preservatives as well.
Triethanolamine (TEA)
TEA is mainly utilized as a surfactant, a substance for balancing pH levels, or as a preservative. Both the European Union and Canada have imposed limits on the concentration and further regulations for incorporating TEA in cosmetics.
Some research suggests that triethanolamine could have carcinogenic properties. While tests on oral carcinogenicity showed that TEA did not cause cancer in rats or mice, it was found to be harmful to the kidneys of rats, particularly female rats.
Preservatives that Release Formaldehyde
Certain makeup removers incorporate preservatives that gradually emit small quantities of formaldehyde, a recognized human carcinogen. Some examples of these preservatives are DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15.
Formaldehyde has been associated with irritation and respiratory issues; it has also been connected to cancer. Additionally, it has been found that high dose exposures to formaldehyde and another preservative, benzalkonium chloride, can irritate your eyes. As a result, it is advisable to steer clear of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in makeup removers.
The Different Types of Makeup Remover
Navigating the realm of makeup remover can be daunting, especially with the myriad of options available. Whether you’re a makeup aficionado or simply enjoy a touch of mascara, finding the right makeup remover that works for you is essential to maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
Let’s explore the different types of makeup removers, from micellar water to cleansing balms and everything in between.
Micellar Water
At its core, micellar water is a blend of:
- Purified water: Micellar water uses purified water as its base to ensure it’s free from impurities and contaminants. The purified water also helps dilute the other ingredients, creating a gentle, effective cleanser.
- Mild surfactants: Surfactants are the active cleansing agents in micellar water, responsible for forming the micelles that capture and remove makeup, dirt, and oil from the skin.
- Hydrating ingredients: Micellar water often contains hydrating ingredients to help moisturize and soothe the skin while cleansing. Glycerin is a common ingredient you’ll find in this category, which is naturally produced by the body and can even help those with various skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis etc.).
The surfactants are key to understanding the magic behind micellar water. When these molecules come together, they form tiny, spherical structures called micelles. Imagine each micelle as a microscopic magnet with two ends – one end is hydrophilic (water-loving) and the other is lipophilic (oil-loving).
When you apply micellar water to your skin using a cotton pad, the hydrophilic ends of the micelles are attracted to the water in the formula. In contrast, the lipophilic ends are drawn to the oils and impurities on your skin, such as makeup, sebum, and dirt. As you gently swipe the cotton pad across your face, the micelles effectively envelop and lift away these impurities, leaving your skin clean, refreshed, and hydrated without the need for rinsing.
Much like with any product, not all micellar waters are created equal. Some may contain harsh chemicals or strong artificial fragrances.
Pros of Micellar Water:
- Gentle on the skin: Micellar water is mild and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, as it does not contain harsh chemicals, alcohol, or strong fragrances. Its gentle nature makes it less likely to cause irritation or strip the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
- Easy to use: Micellar water is convenient and easy to incorporate into your skincare routine. Apply it to a cotton pad and gently wipe your face to remove makeup and cleanse the skin. No need to rinse afterward, making it perfect for on-the-go or late-night use.
- Hydrating: Micellar water often contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin, which help maintain the skin’s moisture balance and prevent dryness.
- Multipurpose: This versatile product acts as a makeup remover, cleanser, and toner, streamlining your skincare routine and saving you time and effort.
- Travel-friendly: Micellar water is perfect for travel, as it doesn’t require water for rinsing and is often available in small, portable sizes. It’s also great for a quick refresh during long flights or road trips.
Cons of Micellar Water:
- Not as effective for heavy or waterproof makeup: While micellar water works well for removing light makeup, you may struggle with heavy, waterproof, or long-wear makeup. In these cases, you might need to use a more robust makeup remover, like an oil-based cleanser, or incorporate double cleansing to ensure thorough makeup removal.
- Requires cotton pads or reusable makeup remover pads: To use micellar water, you’ll need cotton pads or reusable makeup remover pads, which can be an additional expense and may not be the most eco-friendly option, especially if using disposable cotton pads.
- Potential for residue: In some cases, micellar water may leave a slight residue on the skin, which could lead to a sticky or uncomfortable feeling. If you experience this issue, you may need to follow up with a water-based cleanser to ensure all traces of the product are removed.
- Not always fragrance-free: While some micellar waters are fragrance-free, others may contain added fragrances or essential oils, which could potentially cause irritation for those with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities. It’s essential to read the product label and choose a micellar water that meets your specific needs.
Oil-Based Makeup Removers
These removers use natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, olive, or sweet almond oil to dissolve and lift away makeup.
The secret to the effectiveness of oil-based makeup removers lies in the principle that “like dissolves like.” Oils have a natural affinity for other oil-based substances, such as makeup, sebum, and sunscreen.
When applied to your skin, the oil-based makeup remover works its magic by breaking down and dissolving these oil-based impurities, making them easy to wipe away.
Pros of Oil-Based Makeup Remover
- Effective makeup removal: Oil-based makeup removers excel at breaking down and dissolving various types of makeup, including long-wear and waterproof products. They are particularly useful for removing stubborn eye makeup, such as waterproof mascara and eyeliner.
- Nourishing and hydrating: These removers often contain natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or olive oil, which not only remove makeup but also nourish and moisturize the skin. This can leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and hydrated after use.
- Suitable for dry and sensitive skin: Oil-based makeup removers are generally gentle on the skin and can be an excellent option for those with dry or sensitive skin, as they help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Cons of Oil-Based Makeup Remover
- Not ideal for oily or acne-prone skin: Oil-based makeup removers may not be suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as they could potentially contribute to clogged pores or exacerbate existing skin issues. In such cases, using a lighter, water-based makeup remover or micellar water may be a better option.
- Can leave a greasy residue: Some oil-based makeup removers may leave a greasy or oily residue on the skin, which may require additional cleansing with a water-based cleanser to remove. This could be a concern if you prefer a “squeaky clean” feeling after cleansing.
- Rinsing may be challenging: Oil-based makeup removers may be harder to rinse off than water-based alternatives. You might need to use a washcloth or cotton pad to remove the oil, or follow up with a water-based cleanser to ensure thorough removal of the product.
Cleansing Balms
These solid, oil-based cleansers melt into an oil upon contact with the skin, effectively breaking down makeup, dirt, and oil. Scoop a small amount of balm with your fingers, and massage it onto your dry face. Emulsify with a little water, then rinse thoroughly or wipe away with a warm, damp cloth.
Pros of Cleansing Balms
- Less messy than liquid makeup removers: Compared to liquid cleansing oils, cleansing balms are less messy and more convenient to use.
- A little goes a long way: When it comes to cleansing balms, a little goes a long way. Unlike some other cleansing products that require a generous amount to cleanse the skin effectively, cleansing balms are highly concentrated and only a small amount is needed to get the job done.
- Travel-friendly: Cleansing balms are generally solid or semi-solid at room temperature, which makes them an excellent travel option. They are less likely to leak or spill in your luggage than liquid makeup removers.
Cons of Cleansing Balms:
- Contamination: It’s important to exercise caution when utilizing cleansing balms to prevent product contamination, which is why many come with a spatula for scooping out the balm.
- They don’t emulsify as well: While cleansing balms are a great option for gentle and effective cleansing, they may not emulsify as well as liquid cleansing oils.
Cleansing Wipes
These are pre-moistened, disposable towelettes that can be used to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Coming in single-use form, they can be convenient to use, but not eco-friendly.
We don’t recommend cleansing wipes at Better Goods as we feel they have more cons than pros.
Pros of Cleansing Wipes
- Convenient & travel-friendly: Being in disposable, single-use form, they’re great for travel and easy to use.
Cons of Cleansing Wipes
- Not eco-friendly: Because wipes are single-use, they’re not an eco-friendly option. They are not easily degraded in the environment as well so they contribute to increased landfill.
- Not always effective: While convenient, they don’t always work effectively. Many people complain that wipes simply push makeup around the face and don’t actually remove it.
- Can irritate the skin: Many makeup remover wipes use harsh preservatives to keep the wipes free from pathogens and bacteria. The harsh texture of many cleansing wipes can also be rough on the skin.
The Double Cleanse: Your Skin Will Thank You for It
The double cleanse technique is a two-step skincare ritual that originated in South Korea and has since become popular worldwide. The method is hailed for effectively removing makeup, dirt, and impurities, leaving the skin clean, refreshed, and perfectly prepped for the rest of your skincare routine.
Let’s dive into the captivating world of double cleansing and explore how this technique can revolutionize your skincare regimen.
Step 1: Oil-based cleanse
The first step in the double cleanse method involves using an oil-based cleanser or a pure oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or olive oil. The science behind this step lies in the age-old principle that “like dissolves like.”
Oil-based cleansers can dissolve and break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum on the skin’s surface, making them perfect for the initial cleanse.
To perform this step, massage the oil-based cleanser onto your dry face in gentle, circular motions. Take your time, focusing on areas with heavy makeup or stubborn dirt.
This soothing massage not only lifts away impurities but also promotes relaxation and better blood circulation in your skin. When you’re ready, rinse the cleanser off with lukewarm water or gently wipe it away with a warm, damp cloth.
Step 2: Water-based cleanse
After the oil-based cleanse, you might think your skin is already squeaky clean. However, traces of oil, makeup, and impurities may still linger.
That’s where the second step comes in. Using a water-based cleanser, such as a gentle foaming or gel cleanser, helps remove any residual debris left behind by the oil-based cleanser.
Apply the water-based cleanser to your damp face, working it into a gentle lather. Massage the cleanser into your skin, focusing on any areas that might need extra attention.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring that you’ve washed away all traces of the cleanser. Your skin should now feel refreshed, purified, and primed for the rest of your skincare routine.
Benefits of double cleansing
The double cleanse technique provides several benefits that elevate it above a single cleanse:
- Thoroughly removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without over-stripping the skin.
- Ensures a clean canvas for the rest of your skincare products, allowing them to penetrate more effectively.
- Reduces the likelihood of clogged pores, breakouts, and skin irritation.
- Promotes a healthy, radiant complexion with improved texture and clarity.
By incorporating the double cleanse technique into your evening skincare routine, you’ll treat your skin to a luxurious and comprehensive cleansing experience. Not only will you be unveiling a cleaner, healthier complexion, but you’ll also be indulging in a calming, self-care ritual that can help you unwind after a long day.
Our Methodology
Brands are rated on the three pillars as follows:
This ranking is for the best of the best. Only exemplary brands will receive a ranking of best for any category.
This ranking is for brands that are typically quite good, but don’t go above and beyond like our best choices.
This ranking is for when we find something we find iffy. Not a good sign.
This ranking is reserved for the worst of the worst.
The Best Natural Makeup Removers
Of the makeup removers we looked at, these has the cleanest and safest list of ingredients. Any one of these is a great choice if clean ingredients are a priority for you.
Pai Skincare
This oil-based makeup remover has 90% organic ingredients, and none that are toxic. For its great list of ingredients, it gets a top rating.
Citronellol is naturally occurring but can also be made synthetically. This ingredient falls into the list of allergens under the EU legislation. It may cause pigmentary anomalies, known as melanosis faciei feminae. This ingredient may also cause contact allergy. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 8*
OSEA
Osea’s Ocean Cleansing Milk has a great list of ingredients. There’s no concerning ingredients here, and the main ingredients (in particular, the oils) are all organic.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Tata Harper
This cleanser consists of a majority of organic ingredients, all of which are clean. The only ingredients to look out for are the four ingredients at the end of the list, all of which are derived from essential oils and can be potentially irritating to sensitive skin.
Citronellol is naturally occurring but can also be made synthetically. This ingredient falls into the list of allergens under the EU legislation. It may cause pigmentary anomalies, known as melanosis faciei feminae. This ingredient may also cause contact allergy. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Badger
With all organic ingredients and no irritants, this cleanser has the best ingredients of all of the makeup removers we looked at. For this reason, we give it a top rating.
Ingredients
Andalou Naturals
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 3*
Makeup Removers Rated: Good
These natural cleansers are good, but have one or two ingredients that stop us from giving them a “best” rating.
BYBI Beauty
This cleanser has a total of 8 oils, and no concerning ingredients nor potential irritants.
Ingredients
Kopari Beauty
The only ingredient in this product is organic coconut oil. User reviews state that it applies more smoothly than store-bought coconut butter, but this product does come at a significant markup versus regular coconut oil.
Ingredients
Drunk Elephant
While the ingredients of this Drunk Elephant cleanser aren’t all-natural, none of them are of concern. For this reason, we give a “good” rating to this popular cleanser.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Mad Hippie
With a clean list of ingredients, some of which are organic, this popular cream cleanser gets a “good” rating.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Desert Essence
This product is 100% jojoba oil. While it’s not organic, it is a clean product and therefore gets a good rating.
Ingredients
Purito
This product contains 5 natural oils and no toxic ingredients. It does contain one potential irritant to note, however.
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Biossance
This makeup remover from Biossance has no ingredients of concern and is safe to use. It does contain 4 potential irritants, which may be a concern for those with sensitive skin, however.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Glow Recipe
Pentylene glycol has shown evidence of being an irritant. Studies show that it can cause contact dermatitis, which indicates that Pentylene Glycol is a sensitizing ingredient and can be considered as an allergen. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Acure
This micellar water makeup remover has a clean list of ingredients, with only one worth pointing out.
Sodium benzoate is a chemical preservative. Reports show that people with sensitive skin should not use products which contain sodium benzoate as it may induce contact allergy. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Sukin
While most of the makeup removers on our list are oil-based, this is a micellar water cleanser. There are two ingredients worth mentioning, neither of which are concerning enough to warrant less than a “good” rating.
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Benzyl alcohol is listed by the The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) as a well-recognized consumer allergen. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Makeup Removers Rated: Iffy
These cleansers have a few ingredients that we consider iffy, making these products some we wouldn’t recommend.
Drunk Elephant
This popular micellar water gets an iffy rating because of its inclusion of polysorbate-20.
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Polysorbate 20 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Farmacy Beauty
While this makeup remover is often considered a clean beauty staple, the inclusion of the following ingredients make us unable to recommend it over other cleansers on our list.
Glyceryl Triisostearate (PEG-20) can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
PEG-10 Isostearate can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 6*
One Love Organics
This product reports to have fragrance/parfum, which we always consider an ingredient to avoid. However, since it’s not clear if this fragrance is natural or synthetic, we give this product an iffy rating.
The ingredient “fragrance” means that there is a mixture of several essential oils or synthetic or natural chemicals that makeup the scent of the product. According to European and US legislation, the ingredients of the fragrance do not have to be revealed on the product’s ingredients list. Because these ingredients are not disclosed, we always consider this a “bad” ingredient.
Ingredients
Derma E
Retinol is a controversial ingredient and there are a number of conflicting studies on the ingredient. Read our full description on retinol above to see why we give it a bad rating.
There is some concern that tocopheryl acetate is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone, a known human carcinogen. While we believe this risk to be small, we consider tocopheryl acetate an iffy ingredient. (source)
Polysorbate 20 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
We consider “natural fragrance” to be an “Iffy” ingredient simply because it is a blanket term for unknown fragrance ingredients. Because these are natural fragrances, the main concern is skin irritation or allergic reaction, but this shouldn’t be a concern if you aren’t prone to these issues.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Conclusion
All of the products we looked at are marketed as being clean and natural. Like many other product categories, just because a product claims to be clean, it doesn’t mean it actually is.
For a simple choice in a cleanser, look at any of the products we gave a rating of “best”—any of them are a great choice.
