Best Makeup Cleansing Water of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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Makeup cleansing water is a popular product that helps to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities from the skin. It is a gentle and effective way to cleanse the skin without the need for harsh chemicals or abrasives. The formula is usually water-based and infused with natural ingredients such as aloe vera, cucumber, and green tea. Makeup cleansing water is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is easy to use. Simply apply the product to a cotton pad and gently wipe over the face and eyes to remove all traces of makeup. It is a must-have in any skincare routine and leaves the skin feeling clean, refreshed, and hydrated.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover Cover #TOP 1
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup Cover #TOP 2
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water Cover #TOP 3
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Makeup Cleansing Water

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover

I0094685
Skin
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover Cover
Garnier Micellar Water, Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 1 Count

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water is an all-in-one cleanser that gently cleanses, hydrates, and refreshes all skin types. It removes makeup, dirt, oils, and excess oil with its micelle technology without over-drying skin. The formula is soothing, gentle, and safe for use on the face, lips, and eye area. It is vegan and free from oils, parabens, fragrance, and sulfates. As the #1 Micellar Water Brand in America, it is approved by Cruelty-Free International under the Leaping Bunny Program.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective makeup removal
No greasy residue
Hydrating and non-drying
Convenient, no rinsing needed
What We Don't Like
May need extra effort for waterproof makeup
Multiple cotton pads for heavy makeup

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup

603084454693
Micellar Waterproof
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup Cover
Garnier Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup, Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 1 Count

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup is a powerful yet gentle makeup remover that effectively removes even waterproof makeup, cleanses and refreshes skin. It contains Micellar technology that attracts dirt, oil and makeup like a magnet without harsh rubbing. This all-in-1 cleanser and makeup remover is oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free, making it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. It leaves skin perfectly clean, refreshed, and never over-dried. To use, gently wipe all over until skin is completely clean from makeup and impurities, and there is no need to rinse.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective waterproof makeup removal
No greasy residue
Large, good value bottle
Multi-use product
What We Don't Like
May need face wash after
Possible breakouts if not rinsed

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

K2314301
White
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water Cover
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water, All-in-1 Makeup Remover and Facial Cleanser, For All Skin Types, 3.4 Fl Oz (100mL), 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water is an all-in-one makeup remover and facial cleanser that is suitable for all skin types. This micellar water gently cleanses, removes makeup, dirt, and oils from your skin, leaving it feeling healthy and hydrated. The soothing formula is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin and effectively removes makeup without drying out your skin. Powered by micelle technology, it works like a magnet to cleanse and remove impurities in just one step, without the need for rinsing or harsh rubbing. Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist tested for safety, this micellar water is safe to use on your face, lips, and eye area. Plus, it is cruelty-free, vegan, oil-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and silicone-free. With its convenient and effective cleansing properties, Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water is America's #1 Micellar Water Brand.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Removes makeup effectively
No greasy residue
Hydrating formula
Convenient, no rinsing needed
What We Don't Like
May need multiple swipes for heavy makeup
#TOP 4

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin

3401528506420
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin Cover
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Makeup Remover Cleanser, Gentle for Skin, Fragrance-Free & Alcohol-Free, Gentle Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, 16.9 Fl Oz

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleansing Water gently cleanses and removes impurities, fine particles, and makeup from the face and eyes. It also soothes the skin and preserves its balance. Available in 100 ml, 250 ml, and 500 ml formats, it is perfect for sensitive skin.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
No residue or greasy film
Removes makeup and sunscreen
No irritation or breakouts
Time-saving and convenient
What We Don't Like
May struggle with waterproof makeup
May require follow-up cleanser for heavy makeup
#TOP 5

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Vitamin C

603084578603
Vitamin C
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Vitamin C Cover
Garnier Micellar Water with Vitamin C, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Brightening & Hydrating, For All Skin Types, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 1 Count

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Vitamin C is a facial cleanser and makeup remover that contains micelles to lift away dirt, makeup and excess oil without harsh rubbing or rinsing. It also brightens dull skin with Vitamin C in just one step. This product is America's No.1 Micellar Water based on Nielsen sales data. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water has a gentle formula to leave your skin looking fresh and healthy, without greasy residue.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Removes makeup effectively
No greasy residue
Brightening, fresh feeling
Fragrance-free option
What We Don't Like
Glow effect less noticeable
Poor packaging in rare cases
#TOP 6

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover

603084560899
WHITE
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for All Skin Types, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover Cover
Garnier Micellar Water, Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 2 Count

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water is an all-in-one facial cleanser and makeup remover that gently cleanses, removes makeup, dirt, and oils. Its micelle technology works like a magnet to cleanse while leaving skin feeling healthy and hydrated. This micellar water is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested for safety and is vegan, oil-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and silicone-free. Garnier SkinActive is America's #1 Micellar Water Brand.*

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective makeup removal
No greasy residue
Hydrating, non-drying formula
Vegan and cruelty-free
What We Don't Like
Struggles with heavy waterproof makeup
May require multiple cotton pads

Garnier Micellar Water with Rose Water and Glycerin

603084569076
pink
Garnier Micellar Water with Rose Water and Glycerin Cover
Garnier Micellar Water with Rose Water and Glycerin, Hydrating Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, For All Skin Types, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 1 Count

Garnier Micellar Water with Rose Water and Glycerin is an all-in-one cleanser that gently removes makeup, dirt, and oils from skin. The soothing formula hydrates and refreshes skin, leaving it feeling healthy and hydrated. Powered by micelle technology, it works like a magnet to cleanse, without harsh rubbing or rinsing. Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist tested for safety, this vegan formula is gentle even on sensitive skin and safe for use on face, lips, and eye area.

What We Like
Gentle and non-irritating formula
Effective makeup removal
Hydrating and non-drying
Light rose water scent
Great value size
What We Don't Like
May struggle with heavy waterproof makeup
Adds less hydration than advertised
#TOP 8

Garnier Micellar Water with Hyaluronic Acid

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Garnier Micellar Water with Hyaluronic Acid Cover
Garnier Micellar Water with Hyaluronic Acid, Facial Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Hydrating and Plumping, For All Skin Types, Vegan, Cruelty Free, 13.5 Fl Oz (400mL), 1 Count

Garnier Micellar Water is a versatile facial cleanser and makeup remover designed for all skin types. It gently cleanses while effectively removing makeup, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and plumped thanks to the inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe. This product acts like a magnet, effortlessly lifting away dirt, oil, and makeup without the need for harsh scrubbing. Plus, there's no rinsing required after use, making it a convenient option for your skincare routine. With its cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested formula, you can trust that your skin will look fresh and healthy.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective makeup removal
Hydrating with hyaluronic acid
No oily or sticky residue
Convenient, no rinsing needed
What We Don't Like
May not remove waterproof mascara
Slightly oily finish for some
#TOP 9

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water Gift Set

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Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water Gift Set Cover
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water Gift Set, Face Cleansing Holiday Skin Care Kit with Travel Size Micellar Facial Cleansers, Includes Original, Waterproof and Vitamin C Formulas, 1 Kit

The Garnier Micellar Water Trio is a handy skincare kit that offers three travel-sized micellar water formulas, perfect for keeping your skin clean and fresh on the go. You get a gentle formula designed for sensitive skin, so you can cleanse without irritation. The waterproof formula is great for easily removing stubborn makeup, including waterproof products, saving you time and effort. Plus, the Vitamin C micellar water helps brighten dull skin, giving you a radiant look without harsh scrubbing. This set is ideal for holiday travel or as a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves simple and effective skincare.

What We Like
Perfect travel size bottles
Effective makeup removal
No irritation or heavy residue
Refreshing and smooth skin
Great for gifting
What We Don't Like
Limited edition availability
#TOP 10

Dickinson's Micellar Witch Hazel Makeup Remover

Clear
Dickinson's Micellar Witch Hazel Makeup Remover Cover
Dickinson's Micellar Cleansing Witch Hazel, An All-in-1 Makeup Remover, Pore Refiner, Skin Cleanser and Toner; Alcohol Free with Aloe, for Sensitive Skin, 16oz

Dickinson's Micellar Witch Hazel Makeup Remover is a multitasking makeup remover that purifies and refines pores while removing makeup. The micellar formula is combined with 100% natural distilled witch hazel that makes it unique and never-watered-down. It is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, non-greasy, and doesn't require harsh rubbing. The formula is free of alcohol, added fragrance, dyes, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and gluten. Being vegan and cruelty-free, it has an earthy botanical scent from witch hazel.

What We Like
Effective makeup removal
Soothes redness and irritation
No skin dryness or tightness
Cost-effective value
Improved skin appearance
What We Don't Like
Unpleasant witch hazel scent
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does cleansing water remove makeup?

Yes, makeup cleansing water is effective at removing makeup. For heavier makeup or sunscreen, it is recommended to use micellar water as a makeup remover, followed by a gentle cleanser. Soak a cotton pad in the micellar water and gently sweep it over the areas with makeup to remove it effectively.

2. What is the disadvantage of micellar water?

One disadvantage of micellar water is that it may not effectively remove waterproof makeup. This can lead to over-rubbing or leaving behind more residue compared to oil-based makeup removers. Additionally, micellar water may not have ingredients to address specific skin concerns, such as salicylic acid for breakouts or AHA for exfoliation.

3. Who should not use micellar water?

People with congested skin prone to breakouts may want to avoid using micellar water. The ingredients in micellar water can leave a surface residue on the skin, acting like a film and potentially blocking pores and disrupting oil production.

4. Do you have to rinse off cleansing water?

In most cases, there is no need to rinse off cleansing water. Simply pump the micellar water onto a cotton ball or pad and lightly swipe or dab away dirt and makeup. There should be no oily residue left behind. However, if you are doing a double cleanse, you may choose to rinse with water after using cleansing water.

5. Should you wash off cleansing water?

There is generally no need to rinse off cleansing water. After using it to remove makeup and cleanse the skin, you can continue with the rest of your skincare routine. Micellar water can also be used to wipe off sweat after a workout or fix makeup mishaps.

Editor's Notes

During our makeup cleansing water research, we found 48 makeup cleansing water products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,457,859 customer reviews through our big data system to write the makeup cleansing water list. We found that most customers choose makeup cleansing water with an average price of $13.51.

The makeup cleansing water are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of makeup cleansing water, including Garnier, Bioderma, Dickinson's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Makeup Cleansing Water Comparison Table

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Brand Garnier Garnier Garnier Bioderma Garnier Garnier Garnier Garnier Garnier Dickinson's
Scent Unscented Unscented Unscented Fresh Unscented Unscented Unscented Unscented Unscented -
Item Weight 0.97 Pounds 13.5 Ounces 0.1 Pounds 200 Grams 0.97 Pounds 100 Grams 400 Grams 13.5 Ounces - -
Item dimensions L x W x H 2.73 x 2.17 x 2.73 inches 2.73 x 2.17 x 2.73 inches 3.5 x 5.8 x 11.6 inches 2.76 x 2.76 x 8.27 inches 2.68 x 2.2 x 7.15 inches 4.4 x 2.68 x 7.15 inches 2.16 x 2.75 x 7.15 inches 2.68 x 2.2 x 7.15 inches - -
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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