Best Waterproof Makeup Removers
Waterproof makeup deserves a remover whose instructions explicitly address it. This shortlist compares a dedicated bi-phase eye remover with a cleansing oil that the manufacturer describes for waterproof makeup, rather than assuming every cleansing water has the same job.
Research-led selections, not hands-on test results. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Compare the shortlist
The selection order follows this guide’s criteria. Mention counts describe the archive; they are not performance scores.
| Product | Format & finish | Who mentioned it |
|---|---|---|
 LancômeBi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover | Bi-phase eye removerShake-to-mix liquid | View all 10 mentions |
 DermalogicaPreClense | Cleansing oilEmulsifying oil | View all 4 mentions |
Charli XCX
Sandra Lee
Charlotte Tilbury
Katharine McPhee
Jada Pinkett Smith
Lili ReinhartThe selections, with their sources
Lancôme
Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover
Choose the eye-specific direction when mascara and liner are the main removal problem.
10 people mentioned this product in the archive
Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.
Lancôme’s Bi-Facil uses two phases and is specifically intended for waterproof eye makeup. The instructions say to shake, saturate a pad, hold over closed eyes, and gently remove the softened makeup.
Before you choose. The ingredient list includes fragrance. Sensitive-skin marketing does not make it fragrance-free or guarantee individual tolerance.
Dermalogica
PreClense
Compare a full-face oil-first routine when you want to remove makeup before a second cleanser.
4 people mentioned this product in the archive
Selected historical mentions below. A formula-level mention does not establish a shade match or use of a later reformulation.
Dermalogica describes PreCleanse as an oil applied to dry skin, emulsified with water, and rinsed before a cleanser. Its explicit waterproof-makeup instructions make it a useful comparison for a full-face removal routine.
Before you choose. The brand recommends a second cleansing step. Factor that extra step into your choice if you want the shortest possible evening routine.
How to choose
Match the area as well as the claim
Waterproof eye makeup and a full complexion routine may call for different application methods. Check intended areas, contact instructions, and rinsing directions on the exact product rather than transferring a face-cleansing claim to every eye use.
Keep the formula specific
An original balm, a charcoal edition, a fragranced version, and a fragrance-free version can differ even within one familiar product family. The archive preserves historical mentions; current manufacturer links help you check the version available now.
Your questions, answered
Is a tubing mascara removed the same way as waterproof mascara?
Not necessarily. Some film-forming formulas specify warm-water removal. Follow the mascara instructions rather than choosing removal solely by how long it wears.
Are these Glisserati-tested products?
This is a research-led comparison of current manufacturer information and sourced archive mentions. We have not conducted a comparative removal test.
How we chose
Glisserati’s selections combine the criteria explained in this guide with current manufacturer information and documented historical product mentions. We compare the product’s stated role, format, finish, and practical limitations. We have not performed a comparative hands-on test, and manufacturer performance claims are not our test results.
We count distinct people with linked mentions, not the number of times a product appears. Source links retain the recorded publisher, context, and commercial disclosures where known. A person’s mention is a discovery lead, not proof of suitability for a skin type, shade, age, or background. Named variants are kept separate; source links may describe an earlier formula or shade.
Our organization is responsible for these guides; no individual testing or expert-review byline is implied. Prices and availability are not tracked. Retailer links may earn a commission. Read our approach or send a correction.