Acne-Prone Skin? Find the Best Makeup Remover for You

Acne-Prone Skin - smiling young girl with towel wrap
Photo by Cheyenne Doig / Unsplash

Makeup removers are effective, easy to use, and, most importantly, necessary to help prevent breakouts for people with acne-prone skin.

Well, you've seen all the commercials with celebrities swishing and swiping their way to glowing, radiant skin. This begs the question: Why aren't you using a product to remove makeup from your face? They're effective, easy to use, and, most importantly, necessary to help prevent breakouts.

For the sake of healthy skin, you're not allowed to sleep with facial products left on for the night! You need a quick and easy way to remove makeup off your face, after wearing it for the whole day or a night out on the town!

Hacks to Find the Best Makeup Remover for Blemished Skin

Healthy skin has its beginning in a good skincare route. Make sure you incorporate the following skincare hacks:

Cleansing power

Uncovering the perfect cleanser for acne-prone skin and sensitive skin is a journey worth taking. With the right product, your skin feeling refreshed and renewed after you have removed all traces of makeup, dirt, and impurities from the skin. It will also help prevent clogged pores, blackheads, and other types of acne.

Alcohol-free

Alcohol dries out your skin, which makes it more susceptible to irritation and breakouts. Choose a remover to clean off makeup that are specifically designed for acne prone skin, as they are gentle and help to reduce the risk of irritation and breakouts. Alcohol free removers is a must if you have sensitive skin!

Doesn't irritate the skin

Because acne-prone skin is hypersensitive to harsh chemicals, you must remove makeup with a product that won't irritate your skin when used regularly. The best options should contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or natural oils like jojoba or coconut to calm down any inflammation caused by acne.

Non-Comedogenic

Non-comedogenic means that the product to remove makeup does not clog pores. This is important because acne is caused by bacteria infecting pores that can't drain properly, which are inflamed and red.

Oil-free Formula

It might be better for acne-prone skin, to use an oil-free product to remove makeup and maintain clear, healthy skin. But it is also true that tan oil-based formula can be good for your skin! We will tell you which ones are helpful further in this article.

Contains active ingredients

Many great active ingredients in the removers or cleansers are specifically designed for acne-prone skin, such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, Vitamin E, and the like. Salicylic acid helps exfoliate dead skin cells on top of being antibacterial, so it helps prevent future breakouts.

Check for Fragrance-Free

You should also look for fragrance-free products with minimal scents because fragrances can irritate some people with acne-prone skin. You'll want carefully check the label to ensure it's formulated specifically for use on acne-prone skin!

Best Ingredients For Cleansing Acne Prone Skin

man's face - Acne-Prone Skin
Photo by Sunny Ng / Unsplash

Tea-Tree Oil infused Makeup Remover

Tea Tree formulation in makeup removers helps to cleanse acne-prone and/or oily skin without over-drying, thanks to its tea tree oil extract. The oil is anti-bacterial, which helps prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria and it's anti-inflammatory, which means that it can reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

Salicylic Acid Makeup Removers

If you're looking for a makeup remover that can cleanse acne-prone skin, look no further than the 0.5% salicylic acid content available in a makeup remover! Its ability to reduce inflammation due to acne breakout also helps unclog pores to keep your skin clear.

Hyaluronic Acid Makeup Removers

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a common ingredient in many of the best makeup removers. It's used because it's a great humectant, meaning it helps keep your skin moisturized whilst being effective to remove makeup from your face.

If you have the kind of skin that needs an extra-deep cleaning from stubborn makeup dirt and grime built up, you might consider using an plant derived oil-based cleanser with Hyaluronic acid, instead of a water-based one.

Makeup Removers with Zinc

If you're looking for the best makeup remover for acne prone skin, you'll want one with purifying ingredients like zinc. Zinc helps reduce sebum production and keeps your pores clean and clear. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin types when used regularly!

Safflower Seed Oil-Infused Removers

Safflower Seed Oil-Infused makeup removers make a good choice for acne-prone Skin. Safflower Seed Oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that helps regulate oil production by reducing sebum production. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm irritation on the skin.

These cleansers are gentle enough to use on sensitive skin and strong enough to break up excess sebum and heavy makeup without further irritating skin!

Essential Vitamins Infused Makeup Removers

It's important to use makeup removers that are non-irritating and contain essential vitamins B5 and B3. These vitamins help the skin regenerate itself, which makes acne-prone skin less likely to develop new blemishes and scars.

Removers with Micellar Cleansing Water

It's super easy to remove your eye makeup with micellar water, which is a special blend of alcohol-free, purified water, glycerin and mild surfactants that works wonders for your skin.

Not only is micellar water gentle on your skin, but t he micelles in micellar water is also highly effective at removing dirt, makeup and oil from your pores, leaving a refreshed and toned feeling on your skin. By the way, the glycerin in micellar water is a great moisturizing ingredient for those with dry skin, so it's definitely worth adding to your skincare routine!

Embrace the power of micellar water and enjoy glowing skin. This powerful cleanser is a favorite with beauticians because it works to hydrate, reduce irritation, and reduce inflammation.

Top 12 Finds: Under $20 Best Makeup Remover

For Acne-Prone Skin 

1. Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes with Grape Seed & Olive Oils | Paraben Free, Synthetic Fragrance Free, Dermatologist Tested, Cruelty Free | 30 Count


2. CeraVe Face Wash Acne Treatment | Salicylic Acid Cleanser with Purifying Clay for Oily Skin | Blackhead Remover and Clogged Pore Control | 8 Ounce


3. EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser, Gentle, Oil-free, Sensitivity-free, Dermatologist-Recommended Enzyme & Amino Acid Face Wash & Makeup Remover | 7 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)


4. IUNIK Calendula Complete Deep Cleansing Oil 94% Plant-based Oils Makeup Remover Mascara Sunscreen | 6.7 Fl Oz


5. Almay Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes, Biodegradable Clear Complexion Wipes for Oily and Acne Prone Skin, Hypoallergenic, Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, 25 Count


6. Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Face Wipes, with cucumber extract, aloe vera , and green tea.


7. Epielle Charcoal Makeup Remover Cleansing Makeup Wipes Tissue


8. Dickinson's Micellar Water with Witch Hazel Makeup Remover


9. Neutrogena Micellar Water Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelette


10. Farmacy Natural Makeup Remover - Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm Cosmetic


11. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm to Oil with Vitamin E, Gentle and Nourishing Makeup Removing Balm


12. JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm 10 Ingredients Makeup Remover

Shortlist of Top Rated Makeup Removers for Acne Prone Skin

According to Expert Reviews

Explore the highest-rated makeup removers carefully selected by our expert team from a list our list of 12 above, all curated just for you! Try them now!

1. BEST FOR ACNE CONTROL

CeraVe Face Wash Acne Treatment

Buy on Amazon

What's great about it?

No more breakouts with this Acne Control Cleanser with an extra gentle, 2% salicylic acid cleanser. Not only helps to clear acne, but reduces blackheads and improve the appearance of pores.

Purifying clay helps to absorb excess oil for a refreshed and renewed appearance!


2. BEST OVERALL CLEANSING WIPES

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelette

Buy on Amazon

What's great about it?

This makeup remover dissolves all traces of dirt and bacteria, remove impurities, oil, pollution, sweat and sunscreen with this amazing facial cleansing towelettes.

The powerful 'on the go' formula with micellar water provides superior cleansing power. Yes, will remove 99% of waterproof makeup, including eye makeup, with no remaining product residue. If you have dry skin, you'll love how well this moisturizer works!


3. BEST MAKEUP FOAMING CLEANSING WASH

EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser

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What's great about it?

Studies have even shown that your skin cleansed with EltaMD can reduce skin damage caused by pollution by up to 48%!

Effectively removes face makeup, this foaming action cleanser, enzyme and amino acid blend is the best! This amazing combination lifts even heavy make up, oil and impurities from your skin and pores, leaving your face feeling clean, soft and balanced, no matter your skin type!


4. BEST NATURAL & VEGAN CLEANSER

IUNIK Calendula Complete Deep Cleansing Oil based makeup removers

Buy on Amazon

What's great about it?

Specially enriched with Calendula extract and no harsh ingredients, this soap free liquid makeup remover contains 94% plant-based oils . This excellent liquid cruelty free cleanser in a handy pump bottle simply melts away blackheads and works effectively to remove makeup, dirt and other impurities.

Its mild formula is a good makeup remover for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It will leave your skin feeling refreshed, leaving no greasy residue or trace of heavy makeup or stubborn, waterproof makeup.


5. BEST HYPOALLERGENIC CLEANSER

Epielle Charcoal WipesEpielle Charcoal Wipes

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What's great about it?

For the deep cleansing benefits this activated charcoal hypoallergenic and alcohol-free formula removes makeup gently. Perfect for all skin types, this remover also works for sensitive, oily dry or combination skin!

This makeup remover is perfect for all skin types - it's a must-have beauty product! Its sulfate-free, mineral oil-free wipes that gently removes makeup dirt and oil purifying your skin’s pores for a softer, smoother complexion. Its a great cleanser for any skin type.


6. BEST VITAMIN E CLEANSER

JUNO & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm 10 Ingredients

Buy on Amazon

What's great about it?

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help you combat the signs of aging. This cleaning balm is an excellent solution for sensitive skin types or those who need a great option for sensitive eyes.

This remover will take off all your makeup, leaving your complexion feeling refreshed and clean! With regular use, it can also refine skin texture, making you glow with radiance!


7. BEST CLEANSING OIL WITH SAFFLOWER SEED OIL BASED

KOSE Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

Buy on Amazon

What's great about it?

Experience a luxurious transformation to your skin with Japanese inspired oil based makeup remover! This amazing product contains a blend of 5 certified organic oils (olive oil, jojoba oil, sesame oil, safflower oil, and shea butter) that will make your skin feel like silk. This amazing oil blend effectively removes makeup and it works wonderfully on dry skin too!

This foaming oil cleansing will not only quickly remove your makeup up, but will leave your skin feeling silky and smooth - yes!, it will even remove your stubborn makeup, foundation, eyelash extensions, and mascara with ease!



How to use makeup removers for acne-prone skin?

To remove your cosmetics when you have acne-prone skin is essential to your skincare routine. It's the first step in cleansing the skin and helps you remove any dirt and grime accumulated during your day.

Here are some tips for how to best use makeup removal products:

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Wash your face with warm water before applying the product to remove your cosmetics from your face. This helps open up pores and make it easier for you to remove all of that stubborn makeup such as waterproof mascara.
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Use a cotton ball or pad when applying the product. If you have dry patches on your face or sensitive skin, try using a soft cloth instead of cotton balls, so you don't irritate them further.
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Makeup wipes is a great way to cleanse off makeup when you are dealing with stubborn waterproof makeup. Depending on the product content, it can even help to control acne breakout or the surface texture of your skin.
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Everyday items like Vaseline and sweet oil can be great and affordable oil-based solutions for soothing active acne when removing makeup. If you're looking for a budget-friendly, all-purpose skincare solution, Vaseline is a must-have for your beauty stash!
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Make sure to use good acne face wash after removing makeup to make sure all debris is thoroughly cleansed and you'll be on your way to achieving beautiful, radiant skin!
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Soothing blends of natural ingredients like aloe and green tea can help reduce redness and provide calming comfort for your skin when you cleanse makeup off your skin.


Last Thoughts

Makeup remover is inexpensive and easy to effectively remove all traces of any makeup type, including eye makeup.

Hopefully, we've made our case. You've got plenty of options when it comes to acne-safe products to remove makeup every day. The heavier the makeup type you use or the more lasting the formula, the more powerful the remover you'll need.

Only experience will teach result in you which is your personal favorite makeup type, whether you choose an oil-based cleanser or a water-based one, you want to make sure it's gentle and formulated for acne-prone skin. It is always a bonus if you can buy them for the best budget!

FAQs

Is micellar water really the best makeup remover?

Micellar water is a favorite among beauty professionals and makeup artists, due to its remarkable ability to deeply hydrate, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation whilst effectively removing your makeup.


June Stafford

June Stafford

Hi everyone! I'm a communications and business graduate, love people, exploring new places and shopping. I always read reviews to evaluate my purchase options. I hope my review helps you too!