Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($5.79 for 3.8 fl. oz.) is a dual-phase remover, which means there are two layers of product and once the bottle is shaken, it can be used.  You can put a little bit on a cotton pad or cotton cloth, then press against the eye area, and gently swipe away the makeup.  Whenever I use a product like this, I like to press against the lid, wait a couple of seconds (not long at all, just not instantly attempting to remove), and then proceed to remove.  This remover nearly removes all traces of eye makeup for me, but it does struggle a bit against waterproof mascara.

I found that it can and will remove waterproof and long-wearing products, but if you’re wearing a full eye of makeup, you’re going to need to go back a second time and focus on removing the waterproof mascara.  It seems to take a little longer for the remover to breakdown waterproof mascara, and I’ve been able to eliminate the second step if I press the cotton pad against the lashes for about 5-10 seconds and then move to the eyelid.  I also like dipping a cotton swab in this formula and rolling it along the lash line to get every last trace of eyeliner off (it’s more effective than rubbing a cotton pad against the lash line, which often causes excess remover to get into the eye).  This can also work to remove lipstick and lipgloss (if I have bolder lip color or thick lipgloss on, I always remove lip products separate!).

Despite the claim “no oily residue,” there is a definite oily film left behind.  It’s not a full-on oiliness, akin to that of using jojoba or olive oil as a remover, but there’s something there.  On the flip side, it is better than a tight post-cleanse feeling that can often leave skin feeling stretched and dry.  I’m not bothered enough by it that I feel a second cleanse is necessary, but I suspect that some will.  I would recommend this product as an eye or lip makeup remover followed by a facial cleanser.