In recent years, we have seen an influx of makeup removing methods, from the magic makeup cloth that uses just water to cleansing oils that you massage in before you remove. Each product does have promises to removing your stubborn mascara and some do nourish your skin in the process.
Here, we speak with Amanda Von Hagen, lead product developer and skin specialist at Glo Skin Beauty, who has talked us through 7 tips to ensure you go to bed fresh faced instead of waking up with lipstick stains from the night before.
1. Don’t rub your eyes
Mascara can be a nightmare to remove, especially waterproof. The best way to get your eye makeup off is to soak soft cotton pads or balls in the eye makeup remover and let it sit on your eyes for a few seconds. This loosens your makeup up without scrubbing which will only create problems due to how delicate the area is. Always remember never ever rub your eyes, only pat as rubbing can speed up the process of developing fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Steam your face
Steam is your friend when it comes to makeup removal. You can fill your sink with steaming hot water (not boiling) and lean over it for a few minutes. The steam will unclog your pores which will make it a lot easier for you to remove your makeup with your regular routine. Alternatively, you can remove your makeup and then steam your face. Simply soak a washcloth in hot water, let it cool down for a few seconds and then place it on your face. Once the cloth has cooled, the dirt and impurities on your face will melt off.
3. Coconut oil
This is the most versatile of products available, the natural product works as a moisturiser, hair nourishment, cooking ingredient and yes you guessed it, an effective makeup remover. The most effective way is to massage the organic ingredient into your skin like a cleansing balm and rinse off with warm water before you wipe off the excess with a wet cloth.
4. Stubborn high pigment
Vaseline is your savior when it comes to high pigmented lipstick. Apply a pea size amount of Vaseline to your lips and leave it on for a few minutes. Once the time is up, use a damp towel and wipe your lips slowly to reveal a soft and clean pout.
5. No to baby wipes
Some women do tend to believe that because a baby wipe is suitable for babies, then it must be good enough for your face. This is wrong – babies do not wear makeup that requires special ingredients for an intense removal, so if you use this during any step then you are merely moving around the makeup on your face as opposed to removing it.
6. Cleanse the edges of your eyelids
The elusive edge of your eyelid, where your liner and mascara can build up over time is frequently neglected which is the major cause of eye irritation. If you line the top of your eyes with waterproof liquid liner, then you might need to use a more targeted tool to ensure every last bit is gone. Dip a side of a cotton bud into micellar water to wipe away any makeup residue in small areas.
7. Push all your hair back
If you don’t have your hair pulled back, this means you’re likely stopping a couple inches short of your hairline when washing your face. People do often accumulate makeup residue around the hairline when washing their face which leads to clogged pores and breakouts, so tie it back or stick on a hairband in order to remove every last drop.
