This $6 Cleanser Removes Every Ounce of Makeup Without Pissing Off My Eczema-Prone Skin

A miracle!

Photo: Elf Cosmetics/ InStyle

The skin around my eyes has always been super sensitive and prone to eczema. So, I have to be super picky about what I apply around that area and how I remove it. That said, although I love the look of mascara, getting it off can be a pain — both literally and physically.

Typically, I'll use a cleansing balm, then follow up with a gel cleanser. But last week, I was tired in every sense of the word and only had enough energy to wash my face once (shut up, don't judge me).

Anyway, I decided to give e.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser a whirl, since it promised to not only wash away oil and impurities, but also makeup in one go. And since it's infused with both hyaluronic acid and ceramides, I figured it was worth giving a try since chances were it wouldn't set my skin off.

Lucky for me, I was right.

"For eczema-prone skin, the skin barrier is often not as effective at sealing in moisture and thereby at higher risk of water loss through skin, leading to dry, flaky, dehydrated, and inflamed skin," explains Dr. Jenny Liu, board-certified dermatologist and ambassador for e.l.f. "A gentle cleanser like Holy Hydration! uses more gentle surfactants to cleanse, which reduces the harshness of cleansing. Furthermore, ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides can help to soothe and buffer against irritation from face washing."

CLEAN SLATE: e.l.f. cleanser TBD
Elf Cosmetics

To shop: $6; elfcosmetics.com

After my initial trial run of using Holy Hydration! as a makeup remover, I've relied on it ever since to remove any mascara I have on. And I have yet to deal with an eczema breakout.

Plus, with a formula free of phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol ethoxylates, triclosan, triclocarban, and hydroquinone, that is also vegan and cruelty-free, even the biggest skincare skeptic can feel comfortable giving this one a try.

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Oh, and at only $6 a pop, can you blame me for being obsessed? Certainly not in this economy.

From non-toxic makeup and skincare to sustainability practices, Clean Slate is an exploration of all things in the green beauty space. Find out what's really in your products — and what's being left out.

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