After a long day or a late-night party, it's tempting to skip removing your makeup before hitting the bed. But leaving makeup on overnight isn't ideal for your skin. It can lead to dry lashes, clogged pores, and breakouts. Luckily, we've compiled an effortless makeup removal routine for you to wake up with rejuvenated skin.
Easy Steps
How to Remove Eye Makeup
1. Use an Eye Makeup Remover: Opt for a dual-phase eye makeup remover that combines the power of oil-based cleansers with the gentleness of cleansing water. Shake the bottle well before use to ensure the formula is mixed properly.
- If you wear waterproof mascara or stubborn eye makeup, an oil-based cleanser will effectively dissolve it without harsh scrubbing.
- For sensitive skin, cleansing water is a gentle option that removes lighter makeup and liquid liner effortlessly.
- If you're without makeup remover, a mild soap and water can suffice.
Hold the cotton pad against your closed eye for approximately 20 seconds with gentle pressure. Avoid scrubbing and instead allow the makeup remover to dissolve your makeup. This method facilitates easy makeup removal with minimal rubbing.
Use a downward motion to softly wipe off makeup. Being too harsh on the delicate skin around your eyes can contribute to wrinkles and fine lines. Employ gentle strokes with light pressure.
- Place the fingertips of your free hand against your eyebrow and gently pull up as you sweep downward with the other hand. This prevents excessive pulling on the eye area.
Flip the cotton pad over and utilize the clean side to wipe your eye in an upward direction. This ensures thorough cleaning beneath your lashes.
- If stubborn mascara remains on your lashes, try using a clean mascara wand to brush through them.
Removing Foundation and Blush
Apply a quarter-sized amount of your regular cleanser to dry skin. Massage in a circular motion, spreading the cleanser evenly across your face, including your hairline. This process should take approximately 45 seconds.
- Ensure your hair is pulled away from your face using a ponytail, headband, or bobby pins.
- Remove long-lasting or liquid foundation before cleansing your face.
- Opt for a mild makeup remover oil, water-based makeup remover, or natural options like coconut oil. Look for formulas that rinse away cleanly without leaving residue.
- If your skin can tolerate it and is prone to oiliness or breakouts, consider using makeup remover wipes. These provide gentle exfoliation while removing makeup.
- Avoid using baby wipes, as they are formulated for infant skin and not designed to effectively remove makeup.
Gently wipe your face using a wet facial sponge, washcloth, or cotton ball. Most of your foundation and blush should be removed, visible on the washcloth.
- Ensure thorough coverage including your hairline, under your chin, and around your ears.
If struggling with stubborn makeup residue, try using cold cream. Particularly beneficial for those experiencing breakouts along the hairline or those wearing heavy makeup for performances like cheerleaders or actors. Apply a thick layer of cold cream, leave it for a few minutes, then wipe off with a warm washcloth.
- This method effectively removes stubborn makeup.
Removing Lipstick
Apply a generous layer of petroleum jelly onto your lips using your finger. This not only aids in one-step lipstick removal but also provides moisture to your lips.
- An inexpensive drugstore brand is sufficient for this purpose as you'll be using a considerable amount of product.
- Alternatively, olive or coconut oil can be used, though they may be messier to apply.
Allow the petroleum jelly to work its magic for about five minutes. The oil in the jelly effectively dissolves the lip color, drawing it out of your lips for easy removal.
Hold a cotton pad against your lips briefly. You can gently wipe your lips in small circular motions, but be cautious not to spread the jelly onto your face excessively.
Remove the cotton pad, wiping away the petroleum jelly (and lipstick) from your lips. Most, if not all, of the lipstick should transfer onto the pad.
- Repeat if needed. Avoid excessive rubbing, which can lead to chapped lips.
Exfoliate and hydrate your lips. Exfoliation eliminates any remaining color or flakes, while hydration maintains lip softness and health, ensuring a perfect canvas for lipstick application in the morning.
- You can use a lip-specific exfoliator, a wet toothbrush, or a homemade blend of brown sugar and honey for exfoliation.
- Apply gentle, circular motions during exfoliation to avoid irritation and chapping.
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Recommendations
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If you have highly sensitive eyes, inquire about the pH level of your makeup remover before purchasing. Opt for a cleanser with a pH similar to your tears (6.9-7.5) for gentle use.
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The delicate skin around your eyes requires a gentle, effective cleanser specifically formulated for this area.
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When removing waterproof mascara, consider using tea tree oil face wipes.
Cautions
- Avoid using cotton balls to remove eye makeup as their fibers can separate and cause irritation. Similarly, avoid using a washcloth, which can be too harsh for the delicate eye area.
- Avoid getting oil-based makeup remover in your eyes, as it may cause temporary blurring of vision.
Essentials
- Rubber bands, bobby pins, or cloth headband
- Cotton pads
- Eye makeup remover
- Makeup remover
- Facial wash
- Facial moisturizer
- Petroleum jelly
- Washcloth, cotton ball, or facial sponge