We always say that sunscreen is the most important part of your skincare routine. We are not lying; Daily SPF is crucial. But when it comes to the skincare steps that really matter, sunscreen is fiercely contested for the first place. After all, what’s the use of protecting your skin if it’s not clean? It may not be the sexiest step, but proper cleaning is an absolute necessity – and it becomes even more important when it comes to makeup.
While makeup removal may seem relatively straightforward, there are definite ways to do it right and wrong. The wrong way can have some long-term effects. We went straight to the experts – board-certified dermatologists Margarita Lolis, MD, Teresa Song, MD, and makeup artist Daniel Martin – to learn how to remove makeup like a pro. Read on for what they told us.
Why Makeup Removal Is so Important
“It’s important to have a nightly routine that includes thorough makeup removal to support overall skin health,” Loris explains. “It promotes skin renewal and prevents clogged pores, which can lead to the formation of acne and blackheads.”
Clogged pores aren’t the only problem. Cosmetics may leave dirt, debris, and environmental pollutants on the skin. Over time, if not removed properly, they can lead to congestion, surface damage, premature aging, and dryness.
Of course, makeup that remains on the skin can hinder the absorption of nighttime skincare products, making them almost ineffective. In short, there is no point in moving on with the rest of your skincare routine if you don’t remove your makeup properly and thoroughly.
Can Makeup Remover Wipes Really Remove Makeup?
When it comes to makeup remover, the issue of makeup remover wipes is bound to be mentioned. While they can technically work in a pinch(something is better than nothing!), but all three experts advise against using them. “They don’t work well at removing makeup, and rubbing hard to remove makeup can irritate the skin,” Loris explains. “In addition, perfumes and other hidden ingredients can sensitize your skin.”
Song points out that makeup remover wipes often contain acid or alcohol, which can wear down the skin barrier and dry out the skin. In short, don’t waste time on makeup remover wipes or harm your skin when micellar water is just as simple.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Makeup
Hand Washing
Both Song and Lorisy stress that they should wash their hands before removing makeup or touching their faces. This will help you avoid transferring dirt and bacteria to your face.
Remover
When it comes to actual makeup remover, there are two expert-approved options: an oil-based cleanser (or cleansing balm) or micellar water. Both options are good enough to remove makeup effectively, but gentle enough not to peel the skin. Micellar water is often a better choice for those who are prone to acne or sensitive skin, while oil-based cleansers are better for removing heavy makeup or full-face makeup. Many rotate between the two based on the specific focus of the day.
For those using micellar water, first dip the product with a cotton pad or reusable cloth and gently wipe off the makeup. Be sure to remove all makeup thoroughly, paying special attention to areas such as the hairline, eyelids, and jawline. There is no need to rinse. Click here to learn about some of our favorite micellar waters.
Martin, meanwhile, prefers oil-based cleansers like Tatcha’s Camellia One Cleansing Oil ($50), or gentle cleansing balms like the brand’s Indigo Cleansing Balm ($38) “because they adequately dissolve makeup, oils and residue from the skin,” he explains. Cleansers and makeup wipes can be a short-term repair, but they can’t completely remove makeup from pores. Check out our selection of cleansing balms here.
If you choose an oil-based cleanser, apply a few pumps (or a scoop) to your dry face and gently massage over your entire face and eyes. Use the product slowly, preferably for a minute or so. This dissolves makeup, so when you rinse, the water activates the oil lotion and flushes away makeup and dirt from your face.
Remove Eye and Lip Makeup
You may need a specialized mini cleanser to deal with stubborn eye and lip makeup. For waterproof mascara or eyeliner, Martin recommends using some cleansing oil or micellar water on a cotton pad. Gently place the soaked eye pads on the eyes for about 15 to 20 seconds and then wipe them off. (This also applies to long-lasting lipsticks and lip gloss.) You can also opt for a dedicated eye makeup remover, which is especially suitable for long-wearing, waterproof formulas; You can find some of our favorites here.
Clean
While some people debate whether a double cleanse is really necessary, there’s no doubt when it comes to makeup: the first cleanse (whether using an oil-based cleanser or simply applying some micellar water) acts as a makeup remover, while the second cleanse is actually about removing makeup. Cleanse the skin.
After most makeup removal (no matter how hard you try, there may be some makeup left on your skin, so a double cleanse is required) then use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser or formula that suits your skin type and special concerns. Gently massage the cleanser in circular motions for about 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Care for the Skin After Removing Makeup
Once you’ve removed your makeup, it’s time to focus on hydrating and caring for your skin. Both Lorisy and Martin recommend using a moisturizing serum or toner to draw moisture into the skin immediately and help prepare the skin for any active ingredients that may be used subsequently. Follow your regular skincare routine as you see fit, and always end with a moisturizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While removing makeup may seem very simple, there are some common mistakes you need to avoid:
- Rub the skin vigorously: All three experts warn against rubbing and pulling on the skin when removing makeup. Rubbing the skin, especially around the eyes, can cause irritation and premature wrinkles, Loris explains.
- Use of irritating products: Products that are too irritating or not suitable for your skin type (e.g., alcohol-based makeup removers, exfoliating cleansers, etc.) may cause irritation, dryness, and sensitivity, Lollis says.
- Incomplete makeup removal: Residual makeup, especially in often overlooked areas such as the hairline, eyelids, and chin area, can cause clogged pores and acne.
- Skip Double Cleansing: According to Martin, a double cleanse is necessary to remove full-face makeup. For heavy or waterproof makeup, double cleansing is especially important.
- Use dirty or rough tools: If towels and makeup remover sponges are used heavily, Song says, the skin can be excessively frayed. At the same time, dirty hands, cotton pads, towels, face towels, sponges, etc., can bring bacteria back into the skin, causing inflammation and aggravation.
- Neglect of the eyes and lips: Lolis recommends carefully removing all traces of makeup from the eyes and lips, as the residue can cause irritation or infection.
At Last
Let’s face it: casually trying to remove makeup won’t solve the problem. Not only does it not really remove all the makeup, but it also lays the foundation for future skin problems, clogging pores and preventing any subsequent use of the product from really penetrating the skin.
We get it – when you stumble home at 1:48 a.m. after a long night out, the last thing you want to do is mess up your ten-step skincare routine. And you don’t have to! If nothing else, try removing makeup with micellar water, cleansing with a gentle, simple cleanser, and then applying a thick moisturizer before bed. Pro tip: Before leaving for the evening, place micellar water, cotton pads, cleanser, and moisturizer on the bathroom counter. When you walk into the bathroom, they will be the first thing you see, and you won’t even need to think about it.
