The best make-up removers to wash away the day

Because sleeping with your make-up on is a major no-no

best make-up removers 2019
(Image credit: WWD/REX/Shutterstock)

Because sleeping with your make-up on is a major no-no

When it comes to make-up, there’s really only one golden rule: to take it all off with one of the best make-up removers (followed by your best cleanser) before you go to bed.

Yes we know it 's a chore. And how sorely tempting it is to just fall face-first into a pillow after a heavy night out. But while it may be OK to skip using the best night cream once in a while, sleeping with a full face on is not ok (even if Kim Kardashian has admitted to sleeping with her make-up on).

Why, we hear you ask? Because this is the time your skin repairs itself, shedding dead skin while renewing your cells. By going to sleep with your make-up on, you’re stopping this process from being effective.

This in turn increase the likelihood of clogged pores, irritation, inflammation and exposure to free radicals. A pretty high price to pay for not taking a couple of minutes out of your evening to take it all off, no? Investing in the best make-up remover will cost you far less in the long run.

Best make-up removers for eyes

Lancôme Bi-Facil Make-up Remover, £23, Fabled

best makeup removers 2019 Lancome

If you've had a heavy night accompanied with heavy eye make-up, you're going to want something that little bit stronger in your corner to take it off before bed. Enter Bi-Facil; strong enough to take off a heavy duty waterproof mascara, but won't sting your eyes in the process.

Buy now

Best make-up removers for sensitive skin

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water, £5.99, Boots

best make-up remover for sensitive skin Garnier

While there are many great, this is a frontrunner for us because it leaves no residue behind . It's got no scent whatsoever and is really gentle on even the most sensitive of eyes – if you're not keen on oil-based eye make-up removers, this makes light work of mascara, shadow and stubborn liner.

Buy now

Keep scrolling for the Marie Claire edit of the best make-up removers on the market.

Lucy Abbersteen
Beauty Contributor

Lucy is a freelance beauty editor and contributor at Marie Claire, and has written for titles including Glamour, Refinery29, Popsugar, woman&home and more. She was previously Marie Claire’s junior beauty editor. During her career, she’s covered everything from backstage beauty at fashion week to interviews with famous faces like Drag Race royalty and Little Mix. As for her beauty ethos, she’s a big advocate for not having to spend a fortune on beauty products to get good results, and when she’s not got beauty on the brain you’ll find her reading or hanging out with dogs.