4 super efficient ways to remove your makeup

best makeup removers

Maximum makeup removal, minimum time commitment

Beauty Crew Editor / September 26 2017

Makeup removal is hands down the most annoying part about wearing makeup. From ensuring you wipe away every inch of foundation from your hairline and neck, to still waking up to panda eyes despite some very dedicated efforts at removing your mascara, it’s a process that often seems all too hard. 

So, in an effort to ensure a) you’re not ditching the makeup removal process altogether because it’s too tedious, and b) you remove every single morsel of makeup with minimum effort, here are four super efficient makeup remover options to try before you follow with a cleanser.

1

Microfibre makeup removers

They look like discs of material you’d use to wipe a table top, but microfibre makeup removers are the real deal when it comes to effectively erasing signs of foundation, blush, lipstick and even mascara. When soaked in water (yes, just water), the microfibres grab onto every inch of your makeup, without redepositing it onto your face as you keep wiping. Not only do they do a stellar job when it comes to cleansing your skin, but they’re washable and reusable, so you’re also saving money and the environment in the long run.

Face Halo

Try: Face Halo. The generously sized discs make for a speedy removal process, while the microfibres feel soft and gentle on skin as they work hard to lift dirt and makeup.

2

Micellar water

Micellar water has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. The tiny micelles in micellar water attract dirt, grime and makeup like a magnet, while still being gentle and nourishing on your skin. The water-like formula needs only a soft cotton ball or pad to work its magic to remove your makeup and cleanse your skin – just remember you will likely need a bit more dedication when focussing on removing a bold lip or mascara.

Bioderma Micellar Water

Try: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution. One of the original micellar waters, this product has earned cult status for its fast makeup removal that doesn’t compromise skin health.

3

Cleansing oil

Don’t be alarmed at us suggesting an oil to remove your makeup. A cleansing oil is actually an excellent option for those who tend to wear quite a bit of makeup, as the oil works to shift and breakdown makeup (even long-wear, full coverage formulas), making cleansing so much easier. The trick is to apply the oil onto dry skin (with dry hands), then massage it into skin in circular motions to remove the day’s dirt and makeup. Once you rinse your face with water, the oil emulsifies and washes away with ease (along with your foundation and mascara).

burts bees cleansing oil

Try: Burt’s Bees Cleansing Oil. A favourite amongst Beauty Crew members, the coconut and argan oil formula dissolves makeup while nourishing skin.

4

Cleansing balm

The younger sister of a cleansing oil, a cleansing balm works in much the same way to dissolve makeup. A cleansing balm usually starts off semi-solid (think coconut oil if it’s just been in the fridge), and gradually melts from the warmth from your hands and face as you massage it in, becoming more oil-like. Again, your best bet is to do this on dry skin with dry hands.

Dermalogica precleanse balm

Try: Dermalogica Precleanse Balm. Ideal for those with normal to dry skin, this balm-to-oil will shift makeup and impurities, leaving skin soft and supple.

A word to the wise: Just because you’ve found an efficient and effective way to remove your makeup doesn’t mean you can skip cleansing afterwards. By doing a good job of removing your makeup, you’re actually allowing your cleanser to work harder and do a better job of keeping your skin healthy.

Want to know how to get more from your cleansing routine? Here are six ways you can improve your cleansing routine

Do you have an efficient makeup removal solution? Please share with us in the comments section below

Image credit: @lucyhale 

Carli was BEAUTYcrew’s Editor from launch in 2016 until May 2020. You can find her words right here on BEAUTYcrew, and previously on beautyheaven.