How to use makeup remover correctly

As it turns out, there's a right and wrong way to take off your makeup, and it's not just about what type of product you're using but how you're using it. Since makeup is long-lasting, budge-proof, and often waterproof, it's essential to use a makeup remover that can handle whatever makeup you use. If you use unhealthy or poorly made eye-makeup remover, you'll have to work harder (torture your skin more) to remove it. When you pull at your skin to remove makeup, it damages and causes breakage of delicate blood vessels (especially under your eyes). On the other hand, you can easily strip the thin, sensitive skin area around your eyes. Lucky for you we have narrowed it down to the top rules (or tips) to follow when removing makeup. 

Rule #1. Be gentle with your skin

Before touching your face, wash your hands to prevent transferring bacteria to your face and eye irritation. With your first step done, the technique you use to apply the remover is next. Avoid using scrubbing or rough rubbing motions. Instead, gentle dabbing and soft circular movements should be enough to lift the eye makeup off without traumatizing the skin. Also, while makeup cloths conveniently remove dirt, they leave behind residue. Next, wash your face with a gentle cleanser after disposing the cloth. Finally, to try to avoid irritation, use a fragrance-and-alcohol-free wipe.

Rule #2. Rinse thoroughly

Many people skip the step of washing their face, so remember that makeup remover contains many ingredients and chemicals that make it shelf-stable. You don't want chemicals or any residue left on your skin. The buildup of these preservatives and residue can lead to early skin aging. Instead, find a gentle cleanser and quickly rinse. Wallet-friendly cost with high-end payoff make drugstore cleansers a must-have for your daily skin routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. For example, the eye area is the thinnest skin on your face and is very sensitive. If you have to work with force to take off makeup, you should consider a new product.

Rule #3. Soak your skin

Soaking your eyes with cotton pads is a gentle way to remove eye makeup. First, cover your entire eye area with the remover, remembering to get your under-eye. Next, spray two cotton pads with "Essence" and place them over your eyes. Move the pads gently to help break down your makeup for about 15 seconds, and repeat if necessary. Any leftover makeup should be removed using Q-tips, especially around the lash line. Finish this process by placing lightly sprayed cotton pads with "Essence" over your eyes to help soothe them. Treat yourself to spa-level care on the days when you're tempted to skip washing your face. If you can't do the entire routine because you are too tired, use a makeup wipe, and call it a night if you have to.

Rule #4. Double cleanse

Sunscreen and waterproof makeup need more than just a cleansing oil; to remove all your makeup, soak a cotton round with oil and gently wipe outwards from the corner of your eye. Oil breaks down makeup and helps lift it from your skin and eyelashes. If you're using only a cleansing oil, the greasy residue may be a barrier and might not let your eye cream penetrate properly. You'll want the skin to be clean to allow the active ingredients from eye cream to penetrate within the skin and deliver the best results when you are finished.

Rule #5. Look for the right ingredients

The term "right ingredient" may sound like the product will have harsh effects, but it means that the ingredients address your skin concerns. For example, if you feel a burning sensation, your skin may be reacting negatively. To test how your skin will respond to new ingredients, clean the inside of your forearm and swatch the product, then wait 24 hours to see how your skin reacts. Here are some natural ingredients to look for in makeup remover:

• Coconut Oil
• Jojoba Oil
• Sweet Almond Oil
• Witch Hazel
• Argan Oil
• Grapeseed Oil

Rule #6. Be mindful of sensitive skin

Makeup remover for sensitive skin can protect your under-eye area as it is usually one of the first places to show signs of aging. However, it's essential to treat this area gently. It is subjected to wear and tear from smiling, squinting, and rubbing the eyes, which translates into wrinkles and fine lines. Use a liquid, oil-free, fragrance-free, no-sting eye makeup remover for eye makeup removal, as these don't contain irritants that can seep into the eyes and cause unnecessary under-eye puffiness. Apply eye makeup remover to a clean cloth and gently press down on the eye, holding for 20 seconds giving your eye makeup a chance to dissolve. Next, move the pad upward to get underneath the top lashes. Limit waterproof mascara, as it can be tough to remove, resulting in aggressive rubbing and tugging.

Rule #7. Don't waste a cotton pad

Fold each section over after each swipe to get the most use of your cotton pad. If you use the same side of the cotton pad, it will redeposit the makeup you removed. Next, wipe away your eye makeup and mascara in downward motions. Then, flip the pad or cloth and move upward to reach underneath the top lashes. Using this best practice will save you from going for multiple cotton pads.

Rule #8. Use moisturizer

After applying eye cream, your skin should feel a bit damp, but don't wait for it to dry. Instead of waiting and watching your face get drier as the hours go by (or possibly pulling an all-nighter), apply some moisturizer. The best way we've found is with one of our favorite products: "Facial mist," or hydrating toners that will bring back moisture in no time, especially if you forget this step during those hot summer days when life gets crazy busy.

Rule #9. Stick to a routine

The morning routine is your first step in ensuring that the other products you use can do their job correctly. The cleanser will remove any makeup from around the eyes, so it's essential not only for brighter-looking skin but also if there are some stubborn makeup spots. Once clean (and awake), apply eye gels before leaving home because beauty begins with good habits.

Rule #10. Pull your hair back

Pulling your hair back before washing your face is not just for keeping it out of your face. By putting your hair into a ponytail before cleansing, you expose the skin around your hairline, where makeup residue tends to accumulate. Instead, wash your face to the hairline for a thorough cleanse that will leave your skin looking and feeling fresh.

Rule #11. Use a steamer

When you need to do some severe deep-cleaning, use a steamer. Please fill up your sink with hot water and hover over it for about one minute while letting the room temperature heat penetrate each pore of your skin; this will make removing makeup easier because its pores become loosened by exposure (and thus more significant), making it possible that dirt can get trapped inside them without using too much force when wiping off melted waterproof eye dust, etc.). You could also add lavender essential oil if desired.

Our favorite makeup removing products:

Image Skincare Makeup Remover Cloth

Sothys Eye and Lip Makeup Remover

Bioelements Makeup Dissolver

Eminence Herbal Eye Makeup Remover

Babor Eye Makeup Remover