Makeup Remover Cleansing Face Wipes
Makeup Remover Cleansing Face Wipes
Product Description
Product overview
By Neutrogena — pre-moistened ultra-soft micellar cleansing wipes that lift away up to 99% of dirt, oil, sunscreen, sweat and stubborn waterproof makeup in one easy step. The triple-emollient, alcohol-free formula conditions skin while it cleans — no rinsing required, no heavy residue, and gentle enough for the delicate eye area.
Lifts 99% of Makeup
Dissolves long-wear foundation, lipstick, and even stubborn waterproof mascara without harsh tugging on the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYLifts 99% of Makeup
Dissolves long-wear foundation, lipstick, and even stubborn waterproof mascara without harsh tugging on the skin.
Triple Emollient Blend
A trio of cushioning emollient esters helps melt away makeup while conditioning skin so it never feels stripped.
Safe Around the Eyes
Ophthalmologist-tested and gentle enough for the delicate eye area, including for contact lens wearers.
Plant-Based Cloth
The wipe itself is made from 100% plant-based fibers — soft on skin and home-compostable in around 35 days.
Travel-Friendly
Resealable packs in 7, 25, and 50 ct sizes — perfect for the gym bag, carry-on, or bedside table.
No Rinse Needed
One swipe replaces a full cleanse on lazy nights, post-workouts, or when traveling without a sink nearby.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered low-risk during pregnancy and lactation.
Contains PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, PEG-4 Laurate, Sucrose Cocoate, and emollient esters that may feed Malassezia. Avoid if you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
The classic version is lightly scented. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, choose the Fragrance-Free version of these wipes instead.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide — it's a cleansing step, so it won't interfere with the actives you apply afterward.
Ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for contact lens wearers. Designed to remove eye makeup without stinging.
No alcohol, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, soaps, or dyes. Allergy-tested for daily use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~50–60%Proven
The base solvent that suspends all the cleansing and conditioning ingredients in the wipe. Helps deliver actives evenly across the skin and gives that fresh, hydrating feel as you swipe.
- Function: Solvent and carrier — the foundation of nearly every micellar cleanser.
- Note: Cosmetic-grade water is purified and deionized for product stability.
Triple Emollient Ester Blend ~15–25%Proven
A cushioning trio ofCetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isostearyl Palmitate, andPentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate that grabs onto oil-based makeup (foundation, waterproof mascara, sunscreen) and lifts it away while leaving skin soft instead of stripped.
- How it works: Like dissolves like — these lightweight esters dissolve oil-based pigments far better than water alone.
- Skin feel: Rich and creamy but non-greasy after the wipe is applied.
Isononyl Isononanoate ~5–8%Proven
A velvety, silky emollient ester known for excellent makeup-dissolving power and a non-occlusive after-feel. It's a staple in micellar cleansing waters and balms because it removes makeup without leaving a heavy film.
- Source: Commonly cited as low irritancy (0–1) and low comedogenicity (0–2) on standard ingredient databases.
Cyclopentasiloxane ~3–5%Proven
A volatile (evaporating) silicone that gives the formula effortless slip across the skin. It helps the wipe glide rather than drag, then evaporates so it doesn't leave a silicone residue behind.
- Function: Slip agent — improves the gentle "no-tug" feel during makeup removal.
PEG-Based Surfactants (PEG-4 Laurate & PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides) ~3–5%Proven
Mild, non-foaming cleansers that help emulsify oil and makeup with the water phase, allowing them to be wiped away cleanly. They're the workhorses behind the "no rinse" claim.
- Function: Surfactant / cleansing agent — solubilizes oil-based makeup so it lifts onto the cloth.
Hexylene Glycol ~2–4%Proven
A multitasking glycol that thins the formula, boosts the effectiveness of the preservative system, and gently helps lift oils. It also contributes to a light, non-sticky finish.
- Function: Solvent, surfactant, preservative booster.
Preservative System ~<1%Proven
A blend ofPhenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, andIodopropynyl Butylcarbamate keeps the wet wipe environment microbe-free for up to 12 months after opening — important since wet wipes are a hospitable environment for bacteria.
- Why it matters: Wipes need stronger preservation than rinse-off products because they stay damp for weeks or months.
- Note: No parabens, formaldehyde donors, or MIT/MCI in this system.
17 ingredients
Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isostearyl Palmitate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Hexylene Glycol, PEG-4 Laurate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sucrose Cocoate, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Parfum.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as thefirst step in a double cleanse, or as a quick all-in-one cleanse for travel, gym, and on-the-go nights. For best results in your daily routine, follow with a water-based cleanser to remove any leftover residue.
How to use
HOW TO USEOpen & Pull
Open the resealable lid and pull out one wipe. Reseal immediately to keep the rest from drying out.
Press & Sweep
Gently press the wipe against eye makeup and waterproof mascara for 5–10 seconds to dissolve, then sweep across the eyelids, face, lips, and neck.
No Rinsing Required
Discard the wipe (in the trash or home compost — never flush). For everyday cleansing, follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any leftover residue.
Continue Skincare
Apply your usual toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, never skip SPF.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear daily makeup and need a quick, effective remover
- You travel often or live an on-the-go lifestyle (gym bag essential)
- You want to remove waterproof mascara without harsh rubbing
- You're looking for a fragrance-light, dermatologist-tested option
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a low-risk cleanser
- You wear contact lenses and need eye-area-safe makeup removal
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — the PEGs and esters can trigger it
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin — pick the Fragrance-Free version
- You only want a single-step cleanse (a water rinse is still recommended after)
- You prefer a 100% natural / clean-beauty ingredient list
- You have very dry skin and want a richer cleansing balm experience
- You're concerned about disposable wipe waste — try reusable cloths instead
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDissolves heavy makeup and excess sebum without overstripping. Great after sweaty workouts.
The triple emollient blend conditions while it cleans. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer.
Balances oil-removal with conditioning across the T-zone and drier cheeks.
Allergy-tested but contains parfum. Sensitive types should opt for the Fragrance-Free version.
Low comedogenic risk overall, but rinse after use to avoid residue buildup. Not for fungal acne.
No tugging required, which is ideal for delicate, thinning skin around the eyes.
Results timeline
AFTER 3+ MONTHSClean, Makeup-Free Skin
Up to 99% of makeup, dirt, oil, sweat, and sunscreen lifted away in one wipe — even waterproof mascara dissolves with a 5–10 second press.
99% noticedEasier Evening Routine
Most users report sticking to their nighttime cleanse more consistently because the wipes remove the friction of a full sink-cleanse routine.
85% noticedCleaner Pillowcases & Less Mascara Smudging
Daily users notice fewer makeup transfers onto bedding and clearer-looking lashes from never sleeping in mascara.
78% noticedEstablished Travel/Gym Habit
Becomes a long-term staple in gym bags, suitcases, and bedside tables. Skin texture remains consistent when paired with a follow-up cleanse.
82% noticedRatings by platform
111K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Removes 99% of makeup including stubborn waterproof mascara
- Won Allure Best of Beauty Awards multiple times
- Affordable (under $0.40 per wipe)
- Travel-friendly resealable packaging
- Plant-based, home-compostable cloth
- Dermatologist, ophthalmologist, and allergy tested
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Free from parabens, sulfates, alcohol, phthalates, dyes, and soap
Criticized
- Contains parfum — not ideal for very sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Disposable single-use product creates waste
- Light residue may need a follow-up cleanse to fully remove
- Wipes can dry out if pack isn't sealed properly
- Mechanical wiping is harsher than a balm or oil cleanse
- Contains PEG ingredients some clean-beauty users avoid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical micellar formula at a lower price per wipe. Plant-based cloth, dermatologist-tested, alcohol-free, removes waterproof mascara. Less brand recognition but very similar performance.
Adds ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it a stronger pick for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
More natural ingredient list with cotton extract and aloe. Less effective on heavy waterproof makeup but gentler for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
European drugstore alternative with a similar micellar approach. Slightly less effective on long-wear matte foundations but excellent for everyday makeup.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening — wipes use a strong preservative system to stay safe in a damp environment.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always reseal the lid tightly to prevent the wipes from drying out.
Resealable plastic flip-top pack with a sticker lid (multi-pack), or individually wrapped singles for travel.
Yes — TSA-approved as a non-liquid solid. The 7 ct travel pack and 20 ct singles are perfect for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the categories typically restricted during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The cleansers (PEG-based surfactants), emollient esters, and preservative system are all considered low-risk for use during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB-GYN if you have specific concerns about any ingredient.
No, they are not fungal-acne safe. The formula contains PEG-4 Laurate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, and Sucrose Cocoate — all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger pityrosporum folliculitis ("fungal acne"). If you have fungal acne, choose a stripped-back micellar water (e.g., Bioderma Sensibio H2O) or oil-cleanse with MCT or squalane instead.
Yes — completely compatible. These wipes are a cleansing step that comes before your serums and treatments, so they don't interact with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. For best results with any active, finish with a water-based cleanser to remove any leftover emollient residue, then apply your toner and active treatments to clean, dry skin.
They suit most skin types — oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin score "excellent" because the triple emollient blend dissolves makeup without overstripping. Dry and mature skin do well too, thanks to the conditioning esters. Sensitive skin should choose the Fragrance-Free version of these wipes since the standard formula contains parfum. Avoid altogether if you have fungal acne.
Immediate — this is a cleansing product, not a treatment. After one wipe, up to 99% of dirt, oil, sunscreen, and makeup (including waterproof mascara) is lifted away. Long-term benefits, like more consistent nighttime cleansing and less mascara smudging on pillowcases, become noticeable after about 1–4 weeks of daily use.
Use them as the very first step at night to break down and lift away makeup, sunscreen, and the day's grime. For a complete cleanse, follow with your regular water-based cleanser (a "double cleanse"), then continue with toner, serum, and moisturizer. On lazy nights, travel days, or post-gym, they can be used as a quick all-in-one cleanse.
The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 2/5 — low risk. Individual ingredients like Cetyl Ethylhexanoate and Isostearyl Palmitate sit between 0–2 on standard comedogenic scales. The wipes are also marketed as non-comedogenic by Neutrogena. To minimize any pore-clogging risk from leftover residue, follow up with a water-based cleanser, especially if you're acne-prone.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Because the wipes stay damp inside the pack, the formula uses a layered preservative system (Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate) to stay microbe-free. To get the full shelf life, always reseal the lid completely after each use to prevent both dryness and contamination.
Verdict: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Face Wipes remain the gold standard of drugstore makeup removal — and for good reason. The triple-emollient micellar formula reliably lifts up to 99% of makeup (yes, even waterproof mascara) without harsh tugging or stinging eyes. They're pregnancy-safe, dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, plant-based, and astonishingly affordable. The trade-offs: they aren't fungal-acne safe, the standard version is fragranced (so reach for the fragrance-free if you're sensitive), and they work best as the first step of a double cleanse — not a full replacement. For travel, gym, late nights, and post-makeup days, they earn their permanent spot in your routine.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Isostearyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isononyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antistatic Agent
|
|