Makeup Removers
A good skincare routine starts with a clean canvas. Whether you're wearing a full face of long-wear foundation or just SPF and a tinted lip, removing every trace of makeup before cleansing is the single most important step you can take for healthier, clearer skin. Our makeup remover collection brings together micellar waters, cleansing balms, reusable face washers and gentle wipes - so no matter your skin type or makeup style, there's a remover here that works for you.
Types of Makeup Removers
Micellar water is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly makeup removers available. It uses tiny micelle molecules suspended in soft water to attract and dissolve makeup, oil and impurities on contact - no rinsing required. Micellar water is lightweight, non-irritating and works on all skin types, making it particularly well suited to sensitive or reactive skin. The Bioderma Sensibio H2O is a standout in this category a cult favourite among makeup artists and skincare enthusiasts that cleanses gently without drying the skin out. Micellar water is also a great option for quick morning refreshes or removing lighter makeup looks.
Cleansing balms offer a deeper, more thorough removal - especially for heavy or waterproof makeup, thick sunscreen and long-wear products that micellar water alone may not fully dissolve. Balm cleansers melt into the skin on application, breaking down makeup at a molecular level before emulsifying with water for a clean rinse. The Alpha-H Melting Moment Cleansing Balm is a great example - it transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil on contact, dissolving stubborn makeup and rinsing away without greasy residue. Balm cleansers tend to leave the skin feeling nourished and hydrated, which makes them a favourite for dry, mature or dehydrated skin types. Many people use a cleansing balm as the first step in a double-cleanse routine, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser.
Makeup remover wipes and reusable face washers are all about speed and convenience. Traditional disposable wipes are pre-soaked in cleansing solution and ideal for on-the-go removal, travel or nights when you need a quick option. Reusable face washers take this a step further - made from microfibre or other soft fabrics, they physically lift makeup from the skin using just water, cutting out the need for disposable wipes altogether. The Oz Essentials Reusable Face Washer is a popular pick in this space, removing foundation, mascara and lip colour with water alone and going straight in the wash for reuse. It's a more sustainable, cost-effective choice that works surprisingly well on even stubborn makeup.
Cleansing oils and liquid removers round out the category. Oil-based removers work on a similar principle to balms - oil dissolves oil - and are especially effective on waterproof eye makeup. Dual-phase liquid removers combine oil and water layers that you shake together before use, offering targeted removal for eyes and lips without disturbing the rest of your face.
How to Choose the Right Makeup Remover
The best makeup remover for you depends on what you're wearing and how your skin behaves. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, a fragrance-free micellar water is a safe starting point. If you wear heavy, long-wear or waterproof makeup daily, a cleansing balm or oil will give you a more thorough first cleanse. If convenience and sustainability are your priorities, a reusable face washer paired with water is hard to beat - and you can always follow up with a micellar water or second cleanser for a deeper clean.
Many skincare professionals recommend double cleansing in the evening - using a makeup remover first to dissolve surface-level makeup and sunscreen, then following with a water-based cleanser to clear out any remaining impurities and prep the skin for serums and treatments.
Shop Makeup Removers at Oz Hair and Beauty
Browse our full range of makeup removers from brands like Bioderma, Alpha-H and our own Oz Essentials line. Whether you prefer a quick micellar swipe or a luxurious balm melt, we have something for every skin type and routine. Enjoy free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $59, Afterpay available, and expert advice from our team.
Frequently asked questions(5)
What is the best type of makeup remover?
The best type of makeup remover depends on your skin type and what you're wearing. Micellar water is gentle and great for sensitive skin or light makeup. Cleansing balms are more effective at dissolving heavy, waterproof or long-wear makeup. Reusable face washers offer a sustainable, product-free option for daily removal. Many dermatologists recommend double cleansing - using a makeup remover followed by a water-based cleanser - for the most thorough results.
Is micellar water enough to remove makeup?
Micellar water is effective at removing most everyday makeup, including foundation, blush and light eye makeup. For heavy, waterproof or long-wear products, you may need to follow up with a cleansing balm, oil or a second cleanse to ensure everything is fully removed. Micellar water is best used as a first step or as a standalone remover for lighter makeup days.
What is a cleansing balm and how do you use it?
A cleansing balm is a solid or semi-solid makeup remover that melts into an oil when you massage it onto dry skin. The oil dissolves makeup, sunscreen and impurities, then emulsifies with water when you rinse so it washes away cleanly without greasy residue. Apply to dry skin, massage in circular motions to break down makeup, then add water to emulsify and rinse off.
