Buzz
Image: Liudmila Chernetska/Getty Images1. Olive Oil
By now, you’re likely aware that olive oil is a miracle in a bottle, but did you know it also works as a fantastic DIY makeup remover? It’s the top choice for Marie Watkinson, beauty expert and founder of NYC’s Spa Chicks On The Go.
“It’s a great and simple way to remove your eye makeup,” she explains. “I dampen a cotton round with water, then add a generous amount of olive oil. I then gently swipe it across my eye area to effortlessly remove makeup, including mascara, in an instant.”
Olive oil is a typically pure and unrefined oil, making it gentle on the skin without causing breakouts. It also has a softening and conditioning effect.
2. Coconut Oil
Rachel Lozina, esthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa in New York, mentions that oil in general is an excellent option. “Oil helps dissolve dirt and makeup on the skin, and when you apply a cleanser afterward, everything comes off cleanly,” she notes.
Her preferred choice is olive oil, but if you're in the mood for a tropical touch or simply have coconut oil on hand, that works too. Just keep in mind that coconut oil is better suited for those with dry skin rather than oily or acne-prone skin, and be sure to rinse it off thoroughly.
3. Jojoba Oil
Another excellent oil for makeup removal is jojoba oil, which effectively breaks down makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
“Jojoba oil is very similar to the natural sebum the skin produces, which makes it non-comedogenic,” explains Alexis Pfropper, esthetician and founder of asthetik skincare. “It’s unlikely to clog pores or cause acne, making it suitable for all skin types, even oily or acne-prone skin.”
4. Oil & Tiny Pinch of Baking Soda
"If you’re dealing with a stubborn silicone-based or traditional foundation, try mixing any oil with a small pinch of baking soda," suggests Elina Fedotova, aesthetician and founder of Elina Organics. "This combination helps remove more of the silicone residue. However, I wouldn’t recommend using baking soda near your eyes—just for the rest of your face." Oils like jojoba, coconut, or olive oil can all work. Be sure to cleanse and rinse thoroughly afterward.
5. Micellar Water
If you have micellar water on hand, you’ve got an easy and effective makeup remover ready to go! Lozina highlights it as a fantastic alternative, perfect for a quick fix. "Micellar water is oil suspended in soft water, and it effortlessly picks up any leftover makeup, oil, or dirt from your skin," she explains.
6. Aloe Vera
For a gentle, calming DIY makeup remover, aloe vera from your plant is an excellent choice. Ideal for sensitive skin, this natural ingredient works surprisingly well on light, non-waterproof makeup.
To remove makeup, simply apply a small amount of aloe vera gel onto a cotton pad or your fingertips, and gently massage it into your face. Once done, rinse with water. While it may not be as effective for removing waterproof makeup as other options, it works wonders for light makeup and leaves your skin feeling rejuvenated,” suggests Pfropper.
7. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is an easily accessible option. As an astringent, it works best for individuals with oily skin, according to Lozina. However, if you have dry or normal skin, it may not be ideal unless you follow up with a hydrating serum and moisturizer.
8. Oat Flour, Water, and Honey
Fedotova recommends a DIY makeup remover in the form of a gentle scrub by combining oat flour with water and honey. This method is particularly beneficial for those with congested or oily skin. Mix ¼ cup of water with ¼ cup of oat flour, then add a teaspoon of honey and blend until smooth. “Apply the mask for up to 10 minutes,” Fedotova advises. “When rinsing, massage your skin thoroughly so the oat particles can scrub away impurities. Honey has an anti-inflammatory effect, helping to decongest pores.”
