Five of the best: waterproof make-up removers

Five of the best: waterproof make-up removers

These products will shift even the toughest waterproof summer make-up

1. DermatoCLEAN

They say: This dual-phase eye make-up remover gets rid of even the most resistant mascara whilst being gentle on the sensitive eye area. Suitable for contact lens wearers. Contains: APG complex, a nature-derived, extra mild cleanser; gluco-glycerol, a moisturising active clinically proven to help maintain the natural moisture level of skin; and hyaluronic acid, a skincare active with a high moisture binding capacity.
We say: As the cheapest of the group, Eucerin won’t burn a caustic hole in your bank balance, though what you’re not paying for is cosmeticised packaging. As someone who has had their other half use anything sinkside as handwash, I’d advise to pack this one away as it has a listerine coolmint quality. Best for doing the job sans fuss.
DermatoCLEAN Eye Make-up Remover, £9, Eucerin,boots.com

2. Elemis White Flowers

They say: This gentle yet effective bi-phase make-up remover instantly cleanses the delicate eye and lip area of all traces of make-up, including stubborn waterproof mascara. Formulated with white peony extract to hydrate, cooling white tea to soothe and vitamin B5 to help condition lashes. It leaves skin feeling fresh and revitalised. Ophthalmologist tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
We say: This remover feels nourishing, yet light and cooling, like water it leaves no astringent sting or redness, which means you can wipe over stubborn eye make-up as often as necessary. Don’t be put off by the name, which suggests a strong scent — though the formula contains white peony extract and white tea, the blend is actually odourless.
White Flowers Eye and Lip Make-up Remover, £20, Elemis, elemis.com

3. Vichy Purete Thermale

They say: Vichy’s first waterproof eye makeup remover that protects the eyes’ sensitive skin. Eliminates all traces of even waterproof makeup. Enriched with: arginine, taurine. Tested on sensitive eyes under ophthalmological control. With Vichy thermal spa water. Suitable for contact lens wearers. Non-comedogenic. No parabens.
We say: The lightest of the group, Vichy’s formula has a higher percentage of water so would work well for oilier skin types, and/or those with a troublesome t-zone. This leaves the least in the way of finish on the skin so may require a moisturiser or base before make-up re-application.
Purete Thermale, £11, Vichy, boots.com

4. Elizabeth Arden

They say: This two-phase formulation easily and gently removes even transfer-resistant, waterproof makeup without irritation. Softens and comforts, leaving skin perfectly smooth and clean.
We say: I’ve yet to find something this doesn’t vanquish. With the highest oil content of the group, this remover requires only a blot or two per eye (on a good cotton pad). There is an evident, greasy residue which can cause make-up debris to slide about the face, I recommend a whiz over with micellar water to avoid panda cheeks.
All Gone Eye Make-up Remover, £21, Elizabeth Arden,elizabetharden.co.uk

5. BareMinerals

They say: This dual-action formula lifts away impurities without any tugging, pulling or stinging. A unique mineral complex plus naturally derived emollients keep skin moisturised while cucumber soothes the delicate eye area. Ophthalmologist tested.
We say: BareMineral’s remover sits as a happy medium. The cucumber leaves a refreshing bite on the fragile lid area — but not unpleasant. Great for everyday use without the fear of chemical reprisal to the eye. If you are a contact lens wearer, always check for the “ophthalmologist tested” label.
Waterproof Eye Make-up Remover, £15, BareMinerals,bareminerals.co.uk