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Understanding how to remove different types of mascara—whether it's water-based, waterproof, lengthening, or volumizing—can save you time and frustration. Removing mascara can feel like a chore; no matter how hard you try, it either smudges everywhere or doesn't come off at all. It's not surprising that many people opt to skip mascara altogether or even sleep with it on.
However, just like with all makeup, it's essential to remove mascara properly and avoid common makeup-removal mistakes. In this guide, experts share their best mascara-removal tips, recommend the ideal products, and explain how to keep your lashes healthy.
Expert Tips for Mascara Removal
"Mascara is a blend of water, pigments, oils, and waxes, making it tricky to remove," explains Ron Robinson, cosmetic chemist and CEO of BeautyStat. Choosing the correct cleanser for your skin and using the right technique can make all the difference in removing mascara effectively.
1. Opt for a Makeup Remover Designed for the Eyes
Avoid using regular cleansers that could irritate your skin. "Eye makeup removers are specially formulated to break down makeup while being gentle on the delicate skin around the eyes," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a New York City dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.
Makeup artist Katherine Dorn from New York City recommends using a beauty balm, like e.l.f. Cosmetics' Holy Hydration, to remove most of the mascara. "Micellar water works well, but for waterproof mascara, you might need a more powerful option, like Lancôme's Double Action makeup remover," Dorn suggests.
2. Choose a Biphasic Makeup Remover for Eyes
You might want to try a biphasic formula, which combines a cleansing oil to remove mascara and other makeup, followed by water to cleanse the skin. "These are effective because they remove all types of mascara, including waterproof formulas," notes Zeichner.
Dorn points out that if you're using lash primer, removing mascara can be even trickier, as primer extends mascara's staying power. A biphasic eye makeup remover may be especially effective in such cases.
3. Steer Clear of Products with Alcohol or Fragrance
While alcohol or fragrance-based products may be harmless elsewhere on your body, the skin around the eyes is particularly sensitive, and these ingredients can dry out your eyelids. "They can strip moisture from the delicate skin on your eyelids, resulting in irritation," says New York City dermatologist and DermTV.com host, Neal Schultz, MD.
4. Opt for a 100% Cotton Pad
The best makeup remover pads are those that won’t break apart during use, leaving fibers or synthetic materials in your eyes. "Go for a lint-free, shredding-resistant pad," recommends Zeichner.
It’s better to avoid cotton balls for removing mascara—reserve them for facial astringents and toners instead. "Loose fibers could end up in your eyes," cautions Angela Caglia, a master esthetician, celebrity facialist, and co-founder of Angela Caglia Skincare.
5. Press a Remover-Soaked Pad Against the Eyes
It often takes a few moments for makeup remover to set and be effective. "For the solvents to work, they need time to dissolve the polymers and pigments, breaking down the mascara," explains Caglia. "This step is essential to prevent rough rubbing or tugging on your lashes later on."
Allow the product to dissolve the mascara, then gently wipe. "The more time you let the mascara break down, the easier it will be to remove," says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and a dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue.
6. Wipe Along the Natural Direction of the Lash
Always try to keep makeup out of your eyes. "Work from the inside out to reduce the risk of mascara and bacteria being trapped in your eyes," advises Zeichner. Gently grasp the lashes with the cotton and roll it between your fingers to avoid unnecessary rubbing, says Schultz.
7. Use a Soft Touch
If you find it easier to be gentle, try using your ring finger (the weakest finger) to apply the lightest pressure possible. "The skin around your eyes is delicate and the thinnest on your body," says Kristina Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "Excessive pressure on your eyes could rupture blood vessels around the delicate eyelid area," adds Jeanine Downie, MD, a New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist.
"[Aggressive rubbing] can lead to low-grade inflammation, skin irritation, damaged collagen, and contribute to premature aging of the eyelid skin," says Zeichner.
8. Keep Your Eyes Closed While Removing Mascara
It's crucial to keep both mascara and makeup remover away from your eyes. "Certain mascara formulas and removers contain ingredients that can cause severe irritation if they come into contact with the eyes, and it may take more than 24 hours to resolve that irritation," explains Goldenberg. For those with sensitive eyes, Maybelline Colossal Curl Bounce Washable Mascara is a great option.
9. Use a Makeup Wipe for a Second Cleanse
Zeichner suggests using a gentle makeup wipe to remove any remaining mascara after you've used a cotton pad. "Using a wipe first could cause excessive rubbing and irritate the skin," he says. "This double-cleanse method ensures all makeup and residue are fully removed," Dorn adds.
10. Finish with a Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Some makeup removers contain oil, which can accumulate if not properly removed. "If you're using an oil-based makeup remover, you'll want to eliminate any oily residue from the skin around your eyes," advises New York City-based makeup artist and cosmetics consultant Alison Raffaele Tatem.
Avoid using eye makeup remover for your entire face. "An eye makeup remover is not a substitute for your cleanser. It's important to wash your face after removing mascara with a gentle cleanser to clear your pores and eliminate pollutants," says Goldenberg.
11. Apply Moisturizer After Cleansing
Removing mascara can put your skin's protective barrier at risk. "Eye makeup itself can be irritating, even with the best removers," explains Zeichner. "If you skip moisturizing afterward, it may lead to dryness and irritation, so make sure to apply a thin layer of cream on the upper lid and beneath the eyes before bed."
A retinol-based eye cream can stimulate collagen production and help prevent premature fine lines and dark circles, according to Goldenberg. For those with sensitive skin, a light layer of cosmetic-grade petrolatum ointment, like Aquaphor, can act as a protective barrier, notes Zeichner. Additionally, an eyelash growth serum can help strengthen and repair damaged hair protein.
12. Avoid Pulling Mascara off with Your Fingers
While pulling mascara off might feel harmless, it's actually damaging. "You'll just lose lashes," says Schultz. "Your fingertips lack the sensitivity to detect what's coming off, so you risk pulling out eyelashes too." Eyelash regrowth can take anywhere from several weeks to six months.
13. Condition Your Lashes
After you've removed all your makeup, apply a lash conditioner. "This can moisturize your lashes and help them grow longer, thicker, and fuller," suggests Dorn. "Be sure to apply the conditioner only to clean lashes, not over mascara." Consider LiLash Purified Eyelash Serum, a paraben-free product designed to nourish follicles and promote lash growth.
14. Notify Your Doctor if You Notice Excess Lash Loss
There are various reasons for lash loss, including stress, allergic reactions, health issues, or sleep masks. Your mascara removal routine may also be to blame. "It could result from harsh rubbing, but it might also signal an autoimmune condition like alopecia," says Zeichner. If gently removing mascara doesn't solve the issue, consult your doctor for further advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the most effective way to remove mascara?
Water-soluble mascara can be removed using micellar water or a mild makeup remover, and sometimes a simple wash with soap and water is sufficient. However, waterproof mascara needs a more powerful remover. Oil-based makeup removers like cleansing oils and balms are more efficient at dissolving the stubborn formulas of waterproof mascaras.
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Can Vaseline be used to remove mascara?
Yes, Vaseline can work to remove mascara and other makeup, though a product specifically designed for makeup removal or mascara is usually more effective. Since Vaseline is an occlusive agent, it could be too heavy for oily or combination skin. If you choose to use it, apply a very small amount to avoid any complications.
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What are the consequences of not properly removing mascara?
If mascara isn't removed thoroughly, it could potentially harm your skin and eyes. Mascara flakes can irritate the eye, leading to redness and possible infection. Additionally, leftover makeup on your skin can contribute to breakouts if left for too long.
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What alternatives can I use to remove mascara if I don't have makeup remover?
If you're without makeup remover, natural oils like olive oil or coconut oil can be effective at breaking down mascara while hydrating your lashes. You can also try baby shampoo, micellar water, or petroleum jelly as alternatives to remove mascara.
