13 Best Cruelty-Free Makeup Removers of 2022

1. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Era Organics Cleansing Oil And Makeup Remover

Cleansing, healing, and nourishing, that’s Era Organics Cleansing Oil and Makeup Remover for you. Packed with the goodness of argan oil, rosemary, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil, your skin will feel refreshed after every wash. On days when you are exhausted, this organic makeup remover acts as a moisturizer too, so you needn’t worry about natural oils being stripped after cleansing. Suitable for dry, acne, damaged, wrinkled, and sensitive skin, this cleansing oil and makeup remover promises to be tough on makeup and soft on your skin to help it replenish after a long day. Also, it has anti-aging properties! Pros

Gently removes makeup Nourishes with natural ingredients Rejuvenates skin and repairs natural barrier Suitable for dry to sensitive skin Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles Prevents premature aging Cruelty-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free

Cons

Not recommended for oily skin Not ideal for removing waterproof eye makeup

2. Best For Waterproof Makeup:InstaNatural Rose Makeup Cleansing Balm

Removing waterproof makeup, especially eye makeup can be extremely frustrating at times. But not with InstaNatural Rose Makeup Cleansing Balm. It promises to remove the stubborn makeup (waterproof or not), dirt, lipstick, and other impurities while leaving the skin hydrated. The other benefit of the balm is that it can be used on no-makeup days as well to nourish the skin with the natural ingredients such as rose extract, manuka honey, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and geranium oil. And not for once does the balm feel oily as it quickly dissolves into water and turns into a facial cleanser that repairs, rejuvenates skin, and soothes dryness. Here’s a video to help you know more about this product. Pros

Removes waterproof makeup easily Nourishes and hydrates skin Eliminates dryness and softens skin Leaves no oily or grease post-cleansing Doubles up as a moisturizer Suitable for normal to dry skin Cruelty-free and chemical-free

Cons

Not recommended for sensitive or oily skin Strong fragrance

3. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Be Fancy So, So Coco Makeup Remover Cream & Cleanser

This alcohol-free makeup remover is one of the best options if you have sensitive skin, eyes, and nose! Yes, it is fragrance-free, chemical-free, and hypoallergenic which means it is compatible with acne-prone skin as well. Enriched with organic ingredients like coconut oil, organic aloe, and Vitamin E, consider your skin cleansed, moisturized, and nourished. Dealing with wrinkles too? This natural makeup remover also contains grapeseed oil that eases wrinkles and fine lines. Ultra-hydrating and suitable for normal to oily skin, be prepared to feel the softest version of your skin and say goodbye to redness and irritation forever. Pros

Gently removes impurities and promote cellular renewal 70% organic and vegan product Hydrates and nourishes with natural ingredients Suitable for sensitive skin and acne-prone skin Prevents premature aging No redness or irritation Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and cruelty-free

Cons

Runny consistency

4. Best Gentle Formula:NYX Eye & Lip Makeup Remover

No matter how tough your makeup may act, it stands no chance against NYX Eye & Lip Makeup Remover! What about waterproof makeup? Consider it cleansed. But don’t let this tough act give you the idea that this makeup remover may irritate your skin. This water and oil high-grade solution contains all-natural elements like oils, rice, soy, papaya, and orange fruit extracts to give your skin a healthy and hydrated boost in every wash. Pros

Cleans waterproof makeup Does not irritate the skin Nourishes with all-natural ingredients Boosts hydration Gentle and effective Cruelty-free

Cons

The solution separates and has to be shaken every time before use.

5. Best Ultra-Nourishing:Beauty by Earth Makeup Remover

Do you end up over-scrubbing your skin while removing makeup? Stop and try this cruelty-free micellar water which is also a boon if you have oily skin. Free from all harsh chemicals and non-toxic, this makeup remover will not only remove all the impurities, dirt, sweat, and makeup but also enhance your complexion. Reducing the risk of breakouts and replenishing the natural barrier of your skin, the solution is mineral oil-free and more like natural beauty water with sweet orange essential oil. Also, this product is vegan, safe for the skin, and the Earth too. Pros

Non-toxic and soothing cleansing water Removes the toughest makeup gently Enhances complexion Ultra-nourishing with sweet orange essential oil Replenish and hydrates Mineral oil-free, cruelty-free, and chemical-free

Cons

Strong fragrance May not be effective enough on waterproof makeup

6. Best Fragrance-Free:Almay Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Not a fan of liquid makeup removers? Here’s a convenient and mess-free option for you. These Almay Makeup Remover Pads may look all soft and cushiony but they can work against the most stubborn makeup! All you have to do is gently wipe your skin with these makeup wipes and voila! You have soft, refreshed, and clear skin in seconds. Since these pads are infused with a botanical blend of aloe, green tea, and cucumber, they are effectively hydrating and nourishing. Need more reasons why you should pick these makeup removing pads? They are hypoallergenic, dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free. This video takes you through this product’s details. Pros

Ideal for removing waterproof eye makeup Unique blend of natural ingredients Mess-free and fragrance-free Ophthalmologist and dermatologist-tested Leaves no oily residue Cruelty-free

Cons

Not recommended for acne-prone skin Can be a bit greasy

7. Best Non-Drying Formula:Beauty Without Cruelty Creamy Eye & Face Makeup Remover

Get rid of eye and face makeup, the “extra gentle” way! More like TLC for your skin, this creamy solution soothes with the richness of herbal extracts as it wipes away all the impurities. Be it water-resistant, waterproof or those stubborn mascaras, this fragrance-free makeup remover promises clean and refreshed skin with no irritation, even around the eye area. 100% vegan, organic, paraben-free, and cruelty-free, it is a worthy option for all those who want their makeup-free skin to look flawless too. Pros

Extra gentle makeup remover Removes waterproof eye makeup effortlessly Soothes and moisturizes skin Non-irritant and non-drying formula Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and paraben-free 100% vegan product

Cons

It may sting if you have very sensitive skin.

8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Paula’s Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover

Confused which natural cruelty-free makeup remover to choose for sensitive skin? Try Paula’s Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover. True to its name, it is ultra-gentle, leaves no oily residue or dryness, only hydrated and happy skin. What’s the secret? The exceptionally soothing aloe vera that along with green tea, allantoin, and glycerin gently enriches as you clean the skin. Irrespective of how long-lasting and adherent the makeup maybe, this solution will work its magic, even if you have acne-prone, fine lines, or sensitive skin. With no synthetic fragrances or parabens to worry about, this product was also never tested on animals. Pros

Non-irritating, non-drying, and skin-softening solution Cleans, hydrates and soothes skin Suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin Eases fine lines and wrinkles Leaves no oily residue or redness Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free

Cons

Not ideal for removing waterproof mascaras

9. Best Non-Greasy:Bliss Makeup Melt Never-Greasy Eye Makeup Remover Gel

When it comes to oily skin, trust a gel formula to do the magic for you. Other than being non-sticky, this makeup remover gel by Bliss has a gentle, cool, and effective formula that removes the makeup completely, thus leaving your skin glowing fresh. The solution contains hydrogel which is ultra-soothing and mild cleansing agents derived from coconut oil that ensures your skin’s natural oils stay intact. Give your skin a mega-boost of hydration during the cleansing process, and also, with this gel makeup remover, your EOD makeup routine will always be hassle-free! Pros

Non-greasy, non-sticky, and refreshing gel formula Removes the makeup gently and thoroughly Does not disturb the natural oils Hydrates and softens skin No toxic chemicals Peta-certified

Cons

It may sting around the eyes.

10. Best Chemical-Free:Dr. Bronner’s Regenerative Organic Coconut Oil

Keep it classic and organic with this makeshift makeup remover that can also be used for other hair and skincare purposes. Dr. Bronner’s Regenerative Organic Coconut Oil is expeller-pressed from fresh coconut kernels. It is virgin, unrefined, and extremely beneficial for the skin. Also, using coconut oil is a time-honored technique to remove any type of makeup (ask your mom or grandma!). So, if you are looking for an all-natural, chemical-free, and gentle option to remove makeup and nourish the skin, this could be it. Pros

Organic, virgin and unrefined coconut oil Gently removes any type of makeup Extremely nourishing and soothes skin Chemical-free and cruelty-free It can be used for other skincare, haircare, and edible purposes.

Cons

It may not work on waterproof makeup.

11. Best Moisturizing Formula:Maple Holistics 100% Pure Coconut Oil

It is no secret that coconut oil is packed with highly moisturizing and hydrating benefits. Maple Holistics 100% Pure Coconut Oil can be used as a makeup remover and cleansing solution too. Not only does it lift off the makeup from your skin but delivers a boost of nutrition that prevents redness and softens the skin. Renewing the skin’s natural barrier and promising a therapeutic experience, this coconut oil is rich in vitamin E and has anti-aging benefits too. Pros

100% pure and organic coconut oil Hydrates skin with the richness of vitamin E Gently cleans makeup Prevents redness or irritation Suitable for sensitive skin Prevents aging Non-toxic and cruelty-free

Cons

Not suitable for waterproof makeup

12. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Alba Botanica Even Advanced Eye Makeup Remover

Losing those precious lashes every time you remove your eye makeup? Switch to a gentler and effective solution like this ever-advanced eye make-up remover by Alba Botanica. With a powerful marine complex formula packed with botanicals like aloe leaf juice and sea algae, consider those lashes cleansed and nourished at the same time! Gently dissolving waterproof eye makeup without triggering any irritation around the eyes, the solution is oil-free and hypoallergenic. Pros

Gently cleans and nourishes lashes Power-packed with natural ingredients Conditions the lashes Oil-free and hypoallergenic formula 100% vegan makeup remover Chemical-free and cruelty-free

Cons

Waterproof eye makeup may require more effort to remove Not suitable for very sensitive skin

13. Best For All Types Of Makeup:Embryolisse Micellaire Lotion

If your skin turns red or stings every time you remove makeup, then you need an ultra-gentle formula like Embryolisse Micellaire Lotion. Enhanced with gentle cleansing agents (micelles) along with cornflower, chamomile, witch-hazel, and glycerin, the solution promises to gently wipe the impurities, even waterproof makeup and leave the skin radiant, soft, and toned. Suitable for sensitive skin, it is easy-to-use, handy, and leaves a pleasant fragrance on your skin. Pros

Ultra-gentle makeup remover Ideal for sensitive skin Enhances complexion Eliminates all types of makeup Paraben-free makeup remover cruelty-free

Cons

Not suitable for those who are sensitive to smell It may feel sticky.

Go chemical-free and cruelty-free with these gentle and nourishing makeup removers! And if you are not sure which one to pick, read our buying guide below:

How To Choose The Best Cruelty-Free Makeup Remover?

Most of the cruelty-free makeup removers will have either “not tested on animals”, “no animal-produced ingredients”, “100% vegan”, or “Peta certified” included on their labels or features. Also, most of the cruelty-free makeup removers are made of natural products, so it’s a clear win-win for your skin and you. Besides this, here are some points you must look out for to pick the best makeup remover:

It should suit your skin type.

Choose a makeup remover that can work gently yet effectively on waterproof makeup so you don’t have to purchase one separately.

A makeup remover should be non-drying, non-irritating, and nourishing to give your skin the dual benefits.

Pick a hypoallergenic formula so you don’t have to worry about skin irritation or breakouts.

Types Of Make Removers

There are three types of makeup removers:

Liquid Makeup Removers – Ideal for dry to normal skin, liquid makeup removers have a thin consistency and are used with cotton balls or pads to remove the makeup diligently. However, it is not necessary that liquid makeup removers will be as moisturizing as the cream-based removers.

Cream Makeup Removers – A more luxurious and nourishing option that will swiftly cleanse the skin from impurities and leave it feeling soft and hydrated. Cream-based makeup removers are ideal for very dry to normal skin.

Gel-based Makeup Removers – If you have combination or oily-skin, gel-based makeup removers are the best option. Most of them are oil-free and will leave no oily or greasy feeling after cleaning.

Makeup Remover Wipes – Hassle-free and mess-free, makeup remover wipes are available for different skin types. These are ideal for those who are always on the go or not a fan of solution-dispensing products. Also, there are brands offering wipes packed with enriching natural ingredients making them the most preferred choice amongst makeup lovers.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Chaitra Krishnan, the author of this article, is a makeup enthusiast who recommends cruelty-free products. She keeps studying and reviewing new products in this range. Her strong knowledge of makeup trends and products helped her curate this well-researched article on cruelty-free makeup removers for her readers. The products mentioned here help keep your skin hydrated and well-balanced without the guilt of harming innocent beings. What Micellar Water Is Cruelty-Free? Beauty by Earth Makeup Remover’s solution is enhanced with micellar water which also makes it a great choice for oily skin. Is Cetaphil Cruelty-Free? No, Cetaphil is not cruelty-free. Why Should I Buy Cruelty-Free Cosmetics? Cruelty-free cosmetics should be an ideal choice because testing cosmetics on animals is inhumane and barbaric. Hence why animal lovers and PETA are working towards banning animal testing worldwide. Another reason is that cruelty-free cosmetics contain natural and more beneficial ingredients. How Do You Use A Balm or Oil To Remove Makeup? To remove makeup with cleansing balms: Avoid using water or washing your makeup before using a balm. Take a scoop enough to cover your entire face and neck area. Warm it on your palm for a few seconds and then apply it on your face while massaging in circular motions. After a minute, wash it with a warm cloth or lukewarm water. To remove makeup with cleansing oils: Before applying cleansing oil, rinse your face with warm or lukewarm water. Pat dry with a towel and then proceed to apply the cleansing oil with a cotton ball. Gently massage all the areas, especially the T-zone in circular motions. Wipe it gently with a warm cloth.

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