Clean skin lays the foundation for any skincare routine, which is why removing your makeup at the end of the day is essential.

Thoroughly removing all your makeup comes down to a great cleansing system—whether you double cleanse or prefer a one-and-done method, you need the right cleanser to effectively take off your makeup and prep your skin for the rest of your routine. 

Below, we’re covering the most common methods of makeup removal and how they help remove makeup properly.

Lancôme Bi-Facil

Cleansing Oils

The cleansing oil method has gained popularity in recent years and has become a regular step in countless skincare routines. If you’re new to oil cleansing, here’s the basic idea. Oil-based facial cleansers are used on dry skin to dissolve oil, break down makeup, and remove sunscreen. 

They’re then rinsed and followed by a water-based cleanser that ensures no remaining residue is left on the skin. Primarily made with plant oils, these cleansers help nourish the skin with vitamins, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids.

Dermalogica Double Cleanse Pack

Cleansing Balms

Similar to cleansing oils, cleansing balms are rich, oil-based cleansers that use emollients to elegantly remove even the most stubborn makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and grime. Compared to liquid cleansing oils, they have a thick, solid balm consistency that melts as you warm it between your hands. 

Like cleansing oils, cleansing balms are moisturising and gentle on the skin but are less messy than their liquid counterpart. The Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm is a classic cleansing balm formula that will quickly become your next favourite.

Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm

Micellar Water

If you’re not a fan of oil-based makeup removers, micellar water is the perfect go-to. This lightweight formula looks like water but has a more viscous consistency that helps clean more effectively than ordinary H20. Micellar water is made up of tiny micelles that trap and dissolve impurities (aka dirt, oil, and makeup) so you can easily wipe them away. 

Instead of makeup wipes, soak a cotton pad or two in micellar water to break down your makeup before going in with your second cleanse. Bonus? It’s incredibly gentle and great for dry, sensitive skin types. Reach for the Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Micellar Cleanser on days you need a quick, powerful clean.

La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water
This ultra-luxurious micellar water effortlessly sweeps away makeup while infusing your skin with the benefits of La Mer’s iconic Miracle Broth. The formula is packed with nurturing ingredients for skin that glows, even after makeup removal. 

Eye Makeup Remover

Eye makeup remover is a popular removal option for taking off heavy eye makeup, waterproof mascara, or matte lipstick. 

Most formulas are bi-phasic, meaning they’re a lightweight blend of water and oils that, when shaken, work together to break down even the hardest to remove makeup. Try the Clarins Instant Eye Make-up Remover to gently remove a black smokey eye.

Declaré Eye-Contour Sensitive Eye Make-up Remover

Avoid Makeup Wipes

Known as the ultimate “lazy girl” makeup removal method, makeup remover wipes are often seen as the quickest, fuss-free way to remove everything from the day. But don’t let this long-running sentiment fool you. 

The reality is makeup wipes don’t effectively clean your skin. While you may think you’re wiping away all the dirt, makeup, and oil from the day, you’re actually just smearing it across your face (yes, it’s as gross as it sounds). Those traces of makeup, dirt, oil, and dead skin then sit on your face overnight—a recipe for clogged pores and dullness.

Eve Lom Gel Balm Cleanser

The rubbing and tugging to get all your makeup off are also rough on the skin – especially the delicate eye area – leading to redness, inflammation, and premature ageing. 

Not only are these pre-moistened one-time use towelettes horrible for your skin, but they’re horrible for the environment too. Case in point? 

Ditch the makeup wipes and go with a gentler, more effective cleansing option. We promise micellar water, makeup remover, cleansing oils, and balms are also lazy girl-approved.

Declaré Anti-Pollution Cleansing Balm