Looking for cruelty-free & vegan cleansers and toners available in the UK? Here’s a roundup of gentle, high-performing options. Balms, creams, milky cleansers, and toners that clean, soothe and support healthy skin without harassing animal welfare. Compare textures, ingredients, pros & cons, and pick what fits your skin type best.
This guide brings together a mix of affordable everyday cleansers from budget-friendly brands alongside luxury options from higher-value names. Whether you want something simple and effective that won’t break the bank, or a more indulgent ritual cleanser, you’ll find a well-rounded selection here.
Charlotte Tilbury | Take It All Off
- What is it / Texture: A bi-phase liquid makeup remover designed specifically for long-wear and waterproof formulas around the delicate eye and lip area. Shake before use to combine the oil and water phases.
- Key ingredients & feel: Contains chamomile extract and cornflower water to soothe, along with gentle oils to break down makeup. Lightweight, non-greasy finish compared to many removers.
- Best for: Anyone who wears stubborn or waterproof eye makeup, liquid lipsticks, or false lash glue. Perfect as a targeted remover before a full-face cleanse.
- Potential drawbacks: As a bi-phase remover, it may leave a slight film if not followed up with a cleanser. Higher price point than drugstore alternatives.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes! It’s specifically designed for that purpose. It even removed my favourite, no budge Eyeko Beach Mascara.
Superdrug | B. Melting Cleansing Balm
- What is it / Texture: Balm that melts into oil, excellent for removing makeup and sunscreen.
- Key ingredients & feel: Rich butter/oil elements, fairly thick balm texture, melts down. Has scent (some people like it, some note it’s strong, personally I barely notice it).
- Best for: Removing heavy/waterproof makeup; those who want a more indulgent feel; those with dry/normal skin.
- Potential drawbacks: Need to ensure thorough rinsing/non-residue might be something to watch; not ideal if you dislike strong fragrance.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes, though you may need a warm cloth to lift residue completely. It took a little longer than some cleanser to remove my Eyeko Beach Mascara, but it did remove it.
Superdrug | B. Eye Makeup Remover
- What is it / Texture: Eye makeup remover, lighter than a balm, likely oil or dual-phase (or micellar) format.
- Key ingredients & feel: Gentle oils/surfactants safe for delicate eye area; lightweight feel so less rubbing.
- Best for: People who don’t want to use a heavy balm around the eyes; those who want a separate eye remover step.
- Potential drawbacks: May require follow-up cleanser if you wear heavy waterproof makeup; sensitivity depending on formulation.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes, it’s designed for this, but you may need to hold the soaked pad on lashes for a few seconds. It took longer than I would have liked. If you’re looking for a waterproof mascara that actually stays put, I recommend the Eyeko Beach Mascara.
Trinny London – Be Your Best Enzyme Balm Cleanser
- What is it / Texture: A balm-to-cream enzyme cleanser that melts down into a silky texture when massaged onto the skin.
- Key ingredients & feel: Contains fruit enzymes (for gentle exfoliation), oils, and soothing botanicals. It delivers a balance of cleansing + polish without irritation.
- Best for: Those who want a bit of exfoliation along with cleansing (especially gentle exfoliation), suitable for normal, combination, or dull skin needing a boost.
- Potential drawbacks: Enzymatic action may be too mild for heavy waterproof makeup on its own; for very sensitive skin, test in a small area.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? It can help, but for truly stubborn waterproof formula, you might still prefer a separate balm or oil step first. Looking for a great vegan waterproof mascara? Read this blog post!
The Body Shop | Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter
- What is it / Texture: A rich, buttery balm-type cleanser that melts upon application. Starts thick/solid in the tin but softens with warmth and transforms into more of an oily texture.
- Key ingredients & feel: Camomile extract (soothing), with a lightweight buttery texture. Smells soft and floral. Leaves skin feeling nourished rather than stripped.
- Best for: Those who wear makeup regularly and want something indulgent and effective for removal; people with normal to dry or sensitive skin likely to appreciate its soothing properties.
- Potential drawbacks: Contains fragrance, so might not suit extremely reactive skin. Some users find it a bit greasy or heavy if too much is used.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes! This broke down my extremely waterproof Eyeko Beach Mascara very quickly.
The Ordinary | Squalane Cleanser
- What is it / Texture: A balm-to-oil style cleanser that starts as a cream and melts into an oil when warmed in the hands.
- Key ingredients & feel: Squalane for lightweight hydration, emulsifying agents for rinse-off. Minimalist, fragrance-free.
- Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive or dehydrated. Excellent starter cleanser for those new to balm/oil formulas.
- Potential drawbacks: May struggle with very heavy waterproof makeup unless you double cleanse.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? It can, but usually requires a second pass. If you’re looking for a waterproof mascara that actually stays put, I recommend the Eyeko Beach Mascara.
Antipodes | Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser & Makeup Remover
- What is it / Texture: A silky cream cleanser designed to remove impurities while calming stressed or sensitive skin.
- Key ingredients & feel: Avocado oil, marigold flower, and Vinanza Oxifend (grape extract) for antioxidant benefits. Creamy, non-foaming texture.
- Best for: Dry, mature, or sensitive skin. Works well as a morning cleanser or second cleanse at night.
- Potential drawbacks: Not ideal if you prefer a foaming or gel texture.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Gentle, but not the strongest for waterproof formulas. It is better paired with an oil/balm first. Alone it didn’t fully remove my Eyeko Beach Mascara.
Revolution Pro – Miracle Vegan Collagen Cleansing Balm
- What is it / Texture: A rich balm cleanser that melts into oil on the skin, formulated to dissolve makeup and impurities.
- Key ingredients & feel: Features vegan collagen to support skin suppleness, alongside nourishing oils for a smooth, hydrating cleanse. Luxurious texture without a luxury price tag.
- Best for: Makeup wearers, dry or combination skin types, and anyone who loves the ritual of a balm cleanse at an accessible price point.
- Potential drawbacks: Heavier balm feel may not appeal to those who prefer lightweight gels. May need a cloth for full removal.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes, it performs well against stubborn makeup, though a second cleanse may still be needed. Need a mascara for small or hooded eyes? Check out this blog post.
Pai Skincare | Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil
- What is it / Texture: A silky oil cleanser designed to dissolve SPF, pollution, and makeup.
- Key ingredients & feel: Rosehip oil (rich in omegas and antioxidants) plus gentle plant oils. Lightweight, emulsifies with water, leaving skin soft.
- Best for: All skin types, especially dry or sensitive. Particularly good for removing daily SPF and base makeup.
- Potential drawbacks: Price is mid to high range. Oil texture may feel too rich if you prefer foaming cleansers.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? Yes, it performs well, though holding it over lashes for a few seconds works best. It did remove my stubborn Eyeko Beach Mascara with no irritation.
Toners & Additional Gentle Toners
Here are a few gentle toners / mists that complement the above cleansers nicely.
Charlotte Tilbury | Glow Toner
- What is it / Texture: Acid-free toner; fruit / plant extracts; lies between balancing / glow boosting; lightweight watery formula.
- Key ingredients & feel: Niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, prickly pear flower extract; gives natural glow, refines pores; gentle exfoliation without acid.
- Best for: All skin types that want to brighten, reduce uneven texture and pore appearance, without strong acids.
- Potential drawbacks: Mild fragrance / some botanical extracts that could be sensitising for very reactive skin.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? No – toners aren’t designed for makeup removal.
UpCircle | Face Toner with Hyaluronic Acid & Chamomile
- What is it / Texture: Spray-type balancing face toner; light / hydrating mist style.
- Key ingredients & feel: Hyaluronic acid + glycerin + chamomile to soothe; uses upcycled ingredients which is a plus. Feels refreshing and light without drying.
- Best for: Sensitive, dry, or combination skin; as a hydration boost / mist; great after cleansing / during day.
- Potential drawbacks: Spray nozzle might not be ideal for everyone; essential oil / botanical content (mandarin etc) may cause sensitivity in few cases.
- Does it remove the toughest waterproof mascara? No – this is purely for hydration and balance.
Overall Conclusions & Tips
| If you… | Pick… |
|---|---|
| Wear heavy/full coverage or waterproof makeup | Use a balm or oil (e.g. Superdrug B. Cleansing Balm, Charlotte Tilbury Take It All Off, The Body Shop Camomile Cleansing Butter, or Pai Rosehip Cleansing Oil). |
| Have dry or sensitive skin | Choose creamy or balm textures (Antipodes Grace Cream Cleanser, Pai Cleansing Oil) plus soothing toners (UpCircle Toner). |
| Want brightening / even skin tone without acids | Try Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner. |
| Prefer budget-friendly everyday cleansers | The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser and Revolution Hydration Boost Cleanser are excellent options. |
My Rating / Ranking (out of 5) Personal Feel
| Product | Strength | Gentleness | Value* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Tilbury Take It All Off | 5/5 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Superdrug B. Melting Cleansing Balm | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| B. Eye Makeup Remover | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| The Body Shop Camomile Cleansing Butter | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Antipodes Grace Cream Cleanser | 3.5/5 | 5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Revolution Pro Miracle Vegan Collagen Cleansing Balm | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Pai Rosehip Cleansing Oil | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Trinny Be Your Best Enzyme Balm | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner | N/A | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| UpCircle Face Toner | N/A | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
*Value for Price takes into account size, availability and how long the product seems to last vs price.
These are my favourites, but everyone’s skin tells a different story. Which cleanser or toner do you swear by? Let me know in the comments. I’m always excited to discover new gems.
Nx