Natural makeup removers have become increasingly popular as people seek gentler, more skin-friendly alternatives to traditional cleansers. These products, often oil or balm-based, offer an effective way to dissolve and remove makeup without harsh chemicals or excessive rubbing. They’re particularly useful for removing long-wearing or waterproof cosmetics that can be stubborn to wash off with regular face wash.
Oil and balm-based makeup removers work by breaking down the oils and waxes in makeup, allowing them to be wiped away easily. Many of these products are formulated with nourishing ingredients like plant oils, butters, and vitamins that can benefit the skin while cleansing. They’re especially suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin, as they tend to be less stripping than water-based removers.
When choosing a natural makeup remover, it’s important to consider your skin type and any specific concerns you may have. Look for products with high-quality, organic ingredients and avoid those with potential irritants or synthetic fragrances. The texture and ease of application are also key factors to consider.
We tested a range of natural makeup removers to find the ones that effectively remove all traces of makeup while being gentle on the skin. Our testing focused on a variety of formulations, from oils and balms to micellar water, ensuring that each product could effectively lift away even the most stubborn makeup. We specifically sought out nontoxic makeup removers for sensitive skin, as gentle ingredients are crucial for avoiding irritation. Ultimately, we discovered several standout options that not only cleanse thoroughly but also leave the skin feeling refreshed and nourished.
Best Natural Makeup Removers
We’ve scoured the market to find the most effective and gentle natural makeup removers. Our curated list features oil and balm-based options that melt away even stubborn makeup while nourishing your skin. These pure, organic formulas are perfect for those seeking a more eco-friendly and skin-loving approach to their beauty routine.
CeraVe Makeup Melting Balm
We think this balm is a game-changer for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover.
- Melts away stubborn makeup effortlessly
- Nourishing formula with ceramides and jojoba oil
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Small container size
- Slightly greasy texture for some
- May not remove all waterproof mascara in one go
We’ve been using this CeraVe Cleansing Balm for a while now, and it’s become our go-to for removing makeup at the end of the day. The balm-to-oil texture feels luxurious on the skin, and it does an impressive job of breaking down even long-wearing foundations and eye makeup.
What sets this product apart is its skin-friendly formula. The inclusion of ceramides and jojoba oil means our face feels nourished and soft after cleansing, not stripped or tight. We appreciate that it’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it a safe bet for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
One thing to note is the container size – at 1.3 ounces, it’s on the smaller side. However, a little goes a long way. We found that it removes most makeup easily, though we sometimes need a second swipe for waterproof mascara. While some might find the texture slightly greasy, we think it’s a small trade-off for such an effective and gentle cleanse.
Neutrogena Melting Balm
We believe this balm-to-oil makeup remover is a must-have for anyone seeking an effective and gentle solution for stubborn makeup.
- Effortlessly removes waterproof makeup
- Nourishes skin with vitamin E
- Convenient travel-friendly packaging
- May leave a slight oily residue
- Somewhat pricey for drugstore brand
- Jar packaging isn’t the most hygienic
We’ve been using this Neutrogena Melting Balm for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The balm transforms into a silky oil upon contact with our skin, making short work of even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and long-wearing lipsticks.
The vitamin E in the formula leaves our skin feeling soft and nourished, not stripped or dry like some harsh removers can. We appreciate that it’s unscented, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities.
We love how travel-friendly this product is. The compact jar easily fits in our makeup bag, and being a solid balm, we don’t have to worry about liquid restrictions when flying. It’s become our go-to for quick and easy makeup removal on the go.
JUNO Clean 10 Balm
We think this balm is a game-changer for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover.
- Simple, clean ingredient list
- Removes stubborn makeup effortlessly
- Leaves skin soft and nourished
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
- May not suit extremely oily skin types
- Slightly pricier than drugstore options
We’ve fallen head over heels for this JUNO Clean 10 Balm. It’s a dream come true for those of us who love a fuss-free skincare routine. With just 10 ingredients, it’s refreshingly simple yet incredibly effective.
The texture is divine – it starts as a solid balm but melts into a silky oil as we massage it onto our skin. We’re amazed at how easily it dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and long-wearing foundation. No tugging or rubbing required!
After rinsing, our skin feels clean but not stripped. The Japanese Pearl Barley extract leaves our face feeling soft and nourished. We appreciate that it doesn’t leave any greasy residue behind. It’s perfect for our double-cleansing routine or as a standalone makeup remover on lazy nights.
Farmacy Green Clean Balm
We highly recommend this makeup-melting marvel for its gentle yet effective cleansing power.
- Dissolves stubborn makeup effortlessly
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated
- Made with natural, farm-fresh ingredients
- Pricier than some alternatives
- May not fully remove waterproof mascara
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
We’ve been using Farmacy’s Green Clean Balm for a while now, and it’s become a staple in our skincare routine. The moment we scoop out a bit of this sorbet-like solid, it transforms into a silky oil that glides smoothly over our skin. It’s truly satisfying to watch our makeup melt away, even those long-wearing formulas we struggle to remove.
What sets this balm apart is its blend of natural ingredients. Sunflower and ginger root oils work their magic, breaking down makeup without leaving our skin feeling stripped or dry. We love how the moringa extract tackles stubborn sunscreen residue, while papaya enzymes gently lift away impurities.
After rinsing, our skin feels incredibly soft and supple. It’s like we’ve treated ourselves to a mini spa experience right at home. While it’s a bit on the pricey side, a little goes a long way. We’ve found it to be a worthy investment for maintaining healthy, clean skin. Just keep in mind that it might not completely remove every trace of waterproof mascara, so you may need an extra step for those stubborn lashes.
UCANBE Natural Cleansing Balm
We think this cleansing balm is a fantastic choice for those seeking an effective, gentle, and affordable makeup remover.
- Melts away stubborn makeup effortlessly
- Nourishes skin with natural plant oils
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive
- Lemon scent may not appeal to everyone
- Texture can feel oily initially
- May require extra rinsing for complete removal
We’ve been using this UCANBE cleansing balm for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The balm-to-oil formula feels luxurious on our skin, effortlessly dissolving even the most stubborn waterproof makeup. We love how it doesn’t leave our faces feeling tight or dry after use.
The natural ingredients in this product are a huge plus. It’s packed with plant essential oils and vitamin E, which leave our skin feeling soft and nourished. We appreciate that it’s free from harsh chemicals and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.
One thing to note is the lemon scent. While we find it refreshing, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The balm does have an oily texture at first, but it emulsifies nicely with water. Sometimes we need to rinse a bit extra to ensure all residue is gone, but overall, it’s a small price to pay for such an effective and skin-friendly makeup remover.
Buying Guide
When shopping for natural makeup removers, we recommend considering a few key factors:
Skin Type
Choose a formula that suits your skin:
- Dry skin: Look for nourishing oils like avocado or argan
- Oily skin: Opt for lightweight options like grapeseed or jojoba oil
- Sensitive skin: Seek gentle ingredients like chamomile or calendula
Ingredients
We suggest prioritizing organic, plant-based ingredients. Avoid synthetic fragrances, parabens, and other harsh chemicals.
Texture
Consider your preference:
- Oils: Lightweight and easy to spread
- Balms: Thicker consistency, great for travel
Removal Method
Think about how you’ll remove the product:
- Washcloth: Works well with both oils and balms
- Cotton pads: Better suited for liquid oil formulas
Packaging
We prefer eco-friendly options:
- Glass bottles: Recyclable and reusable
- Metal tins: Durable and travel-friendly
Multi-use Options
Some natural makeup removers double as moisturizers or facial massage oils, offering extra value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about natural makeup removers? We’ve got answers to some common questions about oil and balm-based options.
What’s the best natural oil for gently removing makeup?
We love jojoba oil for makeup removal. It’s gentle, non-comedogenic, and mimics our skin’s natural sebum. Coconut oil is another popular choice, but it may clog pores for some people.
Can you recommend a great cleansing balm everyone’s been talking about?
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm is a fan favorite. It melts away makeup effortlessly and leaves skin feeling soft and nourished.
Are there any benefits to using an oil-based makeup remover?
Absolutely! Oil-based removers can dissolve stubborn makeup without harsh rubbing. They’re often more moisturizing than traditional removers and can help maintain our skin’s natural barrier.
What’s the scoop on cleansing oils versus balms for acne-prone skin?
For acne-prone skin, we recommend lightweight cleansing oils like grapeseed or hemp seed oil. Balms can be effective too, but look for non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogging pores.
For combo skin, which rocks more: cleansing balm or oil?
For combination skin, we find cleansing balms often work best. They tend to be less messy and can provide a good balance of cleansing power without over-drying or over-oiling the skin.
Why might someone pick a cleansing balm over a traditional makeup remover?
Cleansing balms are often more travel-friendly and less likely to spill. They can also be more concentrated, meaning a little goes a long way. Plus, applying a balm can feel luxurious and relaxing due to the massaging action.