Even if it’s the last thing you want to do after a long night, your skin—and your morning self—will thank you for learning how to remove makeup properly. Sometimes no matter how thoroughly you lather up, it seems like you just can’t get all your makeup off. We’ve been there. But trust us, the answer is not scrubbing harder.
Below, dermatologists share their best tips for safe, effective makeup removal, tailored to your skin type and concerns. Read on to learn how to get every last bit of makeup off your face without irritating your skin—plus, some common mistakes to avoid.
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How to remove makeup step-by-step, according to dermatologists
Step 1: Wash your hands.
No matter how thorough your cleansing process, it’s all in vain if you’re not starting with clean hands. Scrub up before you touch your face to “avoid introducing more bacteria and grime to your skin,” says double board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD.
Step 2: Use a makeup-removing cleanser (or a two-step system, depending on your skin type).
If you’re weaning off of makeup wipes, skipping straight to cleanser might feel strange. But according to Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, “a single-step cleanse is often best,” especially for oily or acne-prone skin. Just keep in mind that not all cleansers are created equal. “I recommend using a gel cleanser that truly removes makeup, like Skincare Junkie Gentle Jelly Cleanser,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. “It’s an ideal all-in-one makeup remover and cleanser that effectively lifts makeup, sunscreen, and long-wear products without clogging pores or stripping the skin.”
For dry skin (or if you’re noticing makeup residue after cleansing), Dr. Murphy-Rose says that a two-step approach might be more effective. Try using micellar water on a cotton pad to remove makeup from the surface of your skin before using cleanser. To avoid unnecessary friction or dryness, you can use a cleansing oil or balm as a first step instead; Dr. Camp recommends Farmacy Beauty’s Green Clean Cleansing Balm and Dieux’s Ethereal Cleansing Oil to help melt away stubborn eye makeup and sunscreen. However, these types of products might clog pores or lead to breakouts in acne-prone skin, Dr. Murphy-Rose notes.
Step 3: Use a gentle technique—no rubbing or scrubbing.
The most stubborn makeup tends to settle into the most delicate areas of your face, especially around the eyes, “where skin is thinner and more prone to fine lines,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. As a general makeup removal rule: Gentleness is key. She recommends using your hands or a very soft washcloth and applying light pressure only. Scrubbing won’t make your cleanser more effective, but it can lead to some serious irritation.
Step 4: Pat your skin dry and replenish hydration.
Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends rinsing away your cleanser with lukewarm water, then gently patting your skin dry with a clean towel. Hydration is essential after makeup removal, but moisturizer might not be the next step in your skin care routine. In that case, “restore moisture to the skin with a hydrating toner or essence to prepare it for the application of active ingredients,” Dr. Camp says.
How to remove makeup from sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, there are a few additional considerations to add to the process above. As a general rule, “sensitive skin does best with gentle formulas, minimal friction, and fewer steps,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says.
For best results (and as little irritation as possible), she recommends choosing fragrance-free, nonstripping products, and avoiding harsh wipes or exfoliating pads. “Use a soft washcloth rather than scrubbing with fingers, and let the products do the work,” she says. “Patience matters more than pressure.” Restoring moisture is especially crucial after removing makeup from sensitive skin. After a heavy-duty cleanse, consider using a rich overnight formula.
How to remove stubborn eye makeup
When it comes to removing eye makeup in particular, the slower you go, the better. “Let the technology do the work,” says dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD. If you’re still noticing residue after a thorough cleanse, call in an oil-based makeup remover to help break down the products before washing your face. “Apply makeup remover and let it sit, and sit some more,” Dr. Hirsch says. “Give it a couple minutes, say, while you brush and floss.” This will soften mascara, liner, and shadow so it slips off easily and thoroughly once you finally wipe—and keep those morning makeup smudges away.
If there’s one zone that’s frequently neglected during makeup removal, it’s the elusive edge of your eyelid, where liner and mascara can build up over time—and lead to eye irritation. Especially if you tight-line your eyes with waterproof liquid, you might need to get in there with a more targeted tool and make sure every last speck is gone. “For detail work, I love the DHC cotton swabs with olive oil,” says makeup artist Nick Barose. “They break everything down so you don’t have to scrub, which would result in lashes breaking off and falling out.”
Speaking of lashes falling out, you also should never tug stubborn mascara chunks off with your fingers. To coax clumps off without doing harm, make sure you give your remover enough time to penetrate, and then press down gently with a flat cotton pad, moving slowly in the direction your lashes grow, to slide the mascara off.
Common mistakes to avoid when removing makeup
Neglecting the jaw and hairline
While it’s natural to focus on the eyes, lips, and cheeks when removing makeup, it’s just as important to throughly cleanse the periphery of your face. Make sure to push your hair back when cleansing: “People often accumulate makeup residue around their hairline, which leads to clogged pores and breakouts,” says celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas. Similarly, make sure to pay special attention to cleansing your jawline—another common breakout zone if makeup is left behind.
Using cotton balls
“Cotton balls can leave behind residue or break down during usage and leave fibers on your lashes or skin,” says dermatologist Rebecca Kazin, MD. That can lead to irritation at a time when you’re trying to detox and soothe. Always opt for flat cotton pads instead of balls, ideally with a quilted texture.
Rushing the process
Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to safe, effective makeup removal. Fight the urge to scrub at your eyes or speed through your cleansing process. Instead, “allow the removers to gently dissolve makeup,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says.
Relying solely on makeup wipes
Trust us, we get the draw. Makeup wipes feel effective, and better yet, you can use them from the comfort of your bed. But if you’re relying on them to get the whole job done, you’re likely to deal with residual product buildup and tight, irritated skin.
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