One of the worst things about waking up in the morning with dirty skin is regretting those few minutes before you fell asleep when you convinced yourself that it would be okay. Your skin had been through worse and if it came down to it, a quick pimple treatment might do trick. But let’s be honest, sometimes those days end up happening one after the other and before you know it your skin just feels too congested. 

Save yourself from having to pay for a facial and take care of your skin before it’s an issue with this list of the best makeup removers and cleansers recommended by professional Estheticians and Celebrity Makeup Artists. From working backstage at runway shows and collaborating with brands like Stila Cosmetics, to having celebrity clients such as Lady Gaga, these Pros have dedicated their careers to making sure their clients have the right tools for maintaining beautiful skin.

For Light, Everyday Makeup 

When it comes to removing makeup every day, it’s important to find something that’s gentle but effective. Esthetician Monika Tarnowski recommends the Root Science Botanical Facial Cleansing Bar because it’s perfect for cleaning pores without losing too much moisture. It contains organic botanical oils and nutrient-rich plant extracts that nourish and soften skin. The highly concentrated formula is also free of irritating chemicals and artificial fragrances making it perfect for anyone with sensitive skin. Monika loves that the buttery-soft bar is eco-friendly and can be easily recycled if needed. 

"Once this dissolves it’s done," she says in her review. "You could recycle and voila." It’s a perfect solution for anyone who wears little to no makeup every day but still needs a light cleanse to keep skin maintained.

An added benefit of keeping skin clean and balanced is it provides a better foundation for makeup. Throughout her career as a professional Makeup Artist, Erica Johnson found that clean skin is the key to a good makeup base. For a deeper cleanse that thoroughly removes any makeup you might be wearing, Erica recommends the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser. It's a cult favorite for a reason: this cleanser has a pH-balancing formula that gently breaks down all kinds of makeup while soothing even the most sensitive skin. Although other makeup removers and cleansers irritate her eyes, this cleanser is the only one that allows Erica to remove eye makeup comfortably and effectively. The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser is recommended for anyone who wears makeup on a daily basis and is looking for a gentle cleanser that also exfoliates the skin.

For Waterproof and Tough Makeup 

Once you find makeup that stays on all day, you also need to be on the lookout for a makeup remover that can take it off at the end of the day too. Makeup Artist Suzie Moldavon always packs Neutrogena Makeup Wipe Minis because they break down even the toughest makeup without stripping skin. The small package allows the makeup remover to really soak the wipe and it never leaves behind a sticky residue. It’s an effective, low-maintenance solution that softens skin as it cleanses. Suzie even keeps extras by her bed, trusting them to be the only thing to take her makeup off at the end of a long day.

Makeup Artist Nancie Rooney also opts for makeup remover wipes most of the time. While her first go-to method of removing makeup is using soap and water, the Facique Makeup Cleansing Wipes get the job done and more. They’re great for acne-prone skin and clear out pores effectively which can help you avoid over-exfoliating in the future. While Neutrogena Makeup Wipes take the cake for removing tough makeup, Facique Facial Wipes help target skin concerns such as pore care, acne care, and more. They can be used to give your skin a much-needed quick cleanse even if you’re not wearing makeup.

But before you add makeup wipes to your routine, make sure you’re using them correctly to avoid spreading bacteria around your face or being too rough on your skin. Check out Suzie’s tips for removing makeup with her go-to Neutrogena Wipes. 

For a Deeper Cleanse

While it's not a makeup remover, the Ultrasonic Shovel has a cleansing setting that picks up any debris and dirt clogging up your pores. It's a solution that works for anyone who feels like their skin is too congested. Esthetician Monika Tarnowski always uses this tool in her at-home facial routine because it cleanses and lifts skin gently but effectively. It's also more affordable compared to other facial cleansing tools out there while providing results just as good.

Taking care of your skin should never feel like a chore and you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars to keep your skin healthy and balanced. All you need are the right products that fit your skin type and your lifestyle. Whether you're looking for makeup remover wipes on the go or your next favorite organic cleanser, these recommendations from our Pro Estheticians and Makeup Artists will help your skin get to where you want it to be.