The Difference Between Makeup Removers and Cleansers

Today, removing makeup and cleansing your skin can be done in a pinch — sometimes, even in one step — and we’re beyond thankful for that. But when it comes to differentiating between the various methods of face washing, there are two overarching categories that most products fall into: makeup removers and cleansers. While the terms are often used interchangeably, each formulation has its own benefits and you want to be sure you’re not mistakenly using one for the other. 

What Are Makeup Removers?

True to their name, makeup removers are beneficial in that they can remove foundation, blush, concealer, eyeshadow and other cosmetics from the surface of your skin. Makeup removers can be found in various textures and formulations, but the best ones are those which can remove your makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

What Are Cleansers?

Cleansers, on the other hand, serve the main purpose of removing dirt, sweat, sebum and other pore-clogging impurities from the skin before they have a chance to mix with bacteria and wreak havoc. Cleansers are available in all different shapes, sizes and textures, including foam, gel, oil, cream, balm and exfoliators. Your unique skin-care concerns can help dictate the type of cleanser you use, as some are better-suited to particular skin types than others.

The Difference Between Makeup Removers and Cleansers

While both makeup removers and cleansers are used to remove impurities, they are two different skin-care steps that should actually be used in tandem, with the double-cleanse method. This Korean beauty technique ensures all traces of dirt and makeup are effectively removed from the skin’s surface. To follow the technique, start by wiping away your makeup with either a liquid makeup remover or a makeup-removing towelette. Then, follow-up with your favorite cleanser, be it foam, cream or gel.

Ahead, find our favorite makeup removers and cleansers to use together.

Our Favorite Makeup Removers

Lancôme Bi-Facil Face Makeup Remover

To remove long-wear foundation at the end of the day, we recommend Lancôme’s Bi-Facil Face Makeup Remover. With the help of two powerhouse cleansing methods — oil and micellar water — this liquid makeup remover dissolves makeup and leaves skin feeling refreshed. For stubborn, waterproof eye and lip makeup, follow up with the brand’s beloved Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1

 Garnier’s all-in-one waterproof cleanser removes makeup — even waterproof mascara — as well as cleanses and soothes the skin. No need for rinsing or harsh rubbing. Just a few gentle strokes with a cotton pad or reusable cotton round will do the trick. Or, opt for the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Eco Pads.

L’Oréal Paris Complete Cleanser Waterproof Micellar Cleansing Water

Suitable for all skin types, the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water gently dissolves traces of eye makeup, long-wearing foundations and waterproof mascaras. The result? A luxuriously soft, fresh sensation with no greasy residue.

Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Enzyme Cleansing Balm

This sweet-smelling cleansing balm dissolves makeup in a flash and works to exfoliate the skin with papaya enzymes. It also contains blueberry extract, apricot kernel oil and camellia japonica seed oil to leave the skin silky and moisturized.

Billie Wonder Wipes

These plant-based wipes lift makeup, dirt and oil and also contain hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to give your skin a burst of hydration and glow. They’re a perfect first step when double-cleansing because they leave your skin refreshed and prepped for skin care.

Our Favorite Cleansers

SkinCeuticals Foaming Cleanser

Foaming cleansers start out as a liquid, then transform into a bubbly lather to help remove dirt and impurities. Our recommendation? SkinCeuticals Foaming Cleanser, a lightweight pore cleanser for all skin types.

CeraVe Cream to Foam Cleanser

This super creamy formula by CeraVe is ideal for all skin types. It removes makeup, dirt, excess oil and pollution to leave you feeling clean, soft and hydrated. It won’t strip your skin in the slightest.

Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment

Struggling with acne? Opt for a cleanser formulated with salicylic acid, like Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment. This foaming cleanser helps clear acne blemishes, blackheads and whiteheads and helps prevent new ones from forming.

La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub

Sloughing away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin helps reveal a softer and brighter-looking complexion. By using an exfoliating cleanser like the La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub, you can smooth and purify at the same time. It’s the ultimate multitasker.

INNBeauty Project Foam Around Clarifying Daily Cleanser

This light-as-air cleanser will help get rid of excess gunk and oil thanks to its combination of glycolic, gluconolactone and salicylic acid. The best part is that it also contains niacinamide and bilberry extract to help keep your skin supple and even.

Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Cleanser

For a yummy-smelling gentle cleanser, try Blueberry Bounce. It has blueberry extract, hyaluronic acid and AHAs to keep redness, discoloration and dryness at bay.

Design: Hannah Packer 

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