To remove make-up properly, First, remove make-up from your eyes and lips using a gentle make-up remover, then cleanse the rest of your face, and finish by rinsing with water and applying your moisturiser. Doing this properly every night is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine: not only does it remove make-up, it also washes away the oil, pollution and impurities that build up during the day and which, if left on the skin, can block your pores and make your skin look dull.
In this guide, you’ll find out which product to choose based on your skin type, the steps to follow to remove your make-up like a pro, how to deal with waterproof make-up, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
Why is it so important to remove make-up properly?
Going to bed with make-up on (or not removing it properly) has consequences. Throughout the day, make-up, sebum, sweat and particles of pollution build up on the face; if these are not removed, they can cause:
- Clogged pores, which lead to spots and blackheads.
- Dull skin due to a lack of oxygen and cell renewal.
- Premature ageing promoted by free radicals.
Spending a couple of minutes on a thorough cleanse allows your skin to breathe and regenerate overnight, and helps it absorb your creams and treatments much more effectively. In other words: removing your make-up properly ensures that the rest of your skincare routine works effectively.
How to remove make-up, step by step
Removing your make-up properly is easy if you follow these steps:
- Wash your hands. Before touching your face, make sure your hands are clean so that you don’t transfer bacteria to your skin.
- Start with your eyes and lips. These are the most delicate areas. Soak a cotton pad or reusable pad in make-up remover, hold it against your eye or lips for a few seconds, then remove it without rubbing, sliding gently.
- Remove the make-up from the rest of your face. Using the right product for your skin (micellar water, oil or balm), apply it using gentle movements to remove make-up and dirt.
- Double cleanse. First, an oil-based cleanser (to dissolve make-up and oil), followed by a water-based one (to remove any residue). This is the step that makes all the difference when it comes to deep cleansing.
- Apply a toner. It balances the skin’s pH, removes any residue and prepares the skin to better absorb the products that follow.
- Moisturises. Finish with your cream or serum, using upward strokes. If it’s daytime, don’t forget to apply sun cream as the final step.
Which make-up remover should I use?
Not all make-up removers are the same. Here are the basics and what each one is best for:
- Two-phase make-up remover. It combines an oil-based phase with a water-based phase. It is the most effective for removing waterproof and long-lasting make-up, and is very gentle on the eyes and lips. Shake well before use and apply with a cotton pad without rubbing.
- Micellar water. Lightweight and practical, it removes make-up and impurities without the need for rinsing. Ideal for sensitive skin or on days when you’re wearing minimal make-up.
- Make-up remover oil or balm. It melts away even the most stubborn make-up whilst nourishing the skin. Mix it with a little warm water until it becomes milky, then rinse off.
- Reusable make-up removal wipes. A sustainable alternative to disposable cotton pads; use them with your usual make-up remover.
- Facial cleanser. To complete your double cleanse and leave your face completely clean. Choose the one that suits your skin type.
How to remove make-up without make-up remover
If you’ve run out of make-up remover, there are some safe options to tide you over, although they’re no substitute for a make-up remover in your daily routine:
- Mild vegetable oils (olive, coconut, almond) on a cotton pad: they remove make-up thoroughly. Rinse off afterwards with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser to avoid leaving the skin feeling greasy.
- A cream or gel facial cleanser, when massaged onto damp skin, it removes light make-up.
- Warm water and a soft towel They help with very light make-up, although they do not remove waterproof make-up.
Avoid using baby wipes as a make-up remover on a regular basis (they can dry out your skin and do not cleanse thoroughly) and do not use harsh body washes on your face. For the eye area, always use gentle products and take care to prevent oil or soap from getting into the mucous membrane.
How to remove waterproof make-up
Make-up waterproof (mascara, eyeliner or long-lasting lip products) is formulated not to dissolve in water, so you’ll need an oil-based make-up remover:
- Use a two-phase make-up remover or an oil/balm.
- Place the damp cotton wool on your eyelashes or lips and Leave it to work for a few seconds so that the product can remove the make-up.
- Remove it with a gentle outward motion, without rubbing or pulling too hard.
- Repeat if there are any traces left, and finish with a double cleanse.
The key is the patience: Letting the product do its job means you don’t have to rub, which is what irritates and weakens your eyelashes.
How to remove make-up from your eyes and eyelashes without damaging them
The skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the face, so it deserves extra care:
- Always use a a specific, gentle product (two-phase or micellar water for the eyes).
- Press, don’t rub. Leave the cotton in place for a few seconds, then gently slide it out.
- It also removes make-up from the lash line and the tear duct, where eyeliner tends to build up.
- If you wear contact lenses, take them out before removing your make-up.
Common mistakes when removing make-up
- Sleeping with make-up on (even if it’s just once in a while): it’s a sure-fire way to end up with blocked pores.
- Rub vigorously, particularly around the eyes: it causes irritation and contributes to sagging and brittle eyelashes.
- Skipping the double cleanse when you’re wearing long-lasting make-up or water-resistant sun cream.
- Using the same cotton pad for your whole face: you’re just spreading the dirt around instead of removing it.
- Forgetting to rehydrate afterwards: freshly cleansed skin needs to replenish its moisture and lipids.
Conclusion
Skin care starts with proper make-up removal. Removing make-up in the correct order, using the right product and without rubbing, helps prevent blemishes, keeps your complexion radiant and ensures your skincare treatments are more effective.
Ready to improve your routine? Discover the best make-up removers and facial care products at Sam Parfums, with options for every skin type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove make-up properly?
First, remove make-up from your eyes and lips using a gentle make-up remover, then cleanse the rest of your face with micellar water, oil or a cleansing balm. Follow this with a double cleanse using water, and finish with toner and moisturiser.
Can you remove make-up without make-up remover?
Yes, from time to time, using mild vegetable oils or a facial cleanser. They are not a substitute for a make-up remover for daily use, particularly when wearing waterproof make-up.
Micellar water or make-up remover oil: which is better?
Micellar water is ideal for sensitive skin and days when you’re wearing minimal make-up; oil or balm is more effective for heavy or waterproof make-up. Ideally, you should combine them as part of a double cleansing routine.
How often should you remove your make-up?
Whenever you wear make-up, and at least every night before going to bed – even if you haven’t worn any make-up – to remove sebum and dirt.
How do you remove waterproof make-up?
If using a two-phase or oil-based make-up remover: leave it on for a few seconds to allow it to dissolve the make-up, then gently wipe it off without rubbing.