7 Natural Ways to Remove Makeup

The cost of conventional makeup removing pads or creams can get pricey fast, especially when you have ones for each area: eyes, lips, cheeks, etc. And, all those products take up precious space on bathroom and vanity shelves.

Personally, I have sensitive skin with occasional bouts of rosacea and like to be mindful of what I put on my delicate facial skin. I figured, if I can use a gentle single-ingredient product that fits with my desire to focus on natural cosmetic products, why not do it?

7 Natural Ways to Remove Makeup

As I've experimented with greening my skin care routine, I've done quite a bit of research on the nurturing effects of plant-based oils on the skin. Many plant oils, including those listed below, help to repair the skin barrier and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

I've discovered that these oils gently lift and remove makeup during my evening bedtime routine. First, I start with a warm bath to relax and unwind from my day. I wash my body and hair, then towel off and give my face some extra TLC with one of these makeup-removing and skin-moisturizing oils.

1. Almond Oil

You may have some of this on hand as a carrier oil for essential oils or as a cooking oil. I like to pour a small amount on a cotton ball and carefully wipe it over the makeup that needs to be removed. No rinsing required! For waterproof mascara, you may need to go over your eyelashes a few times, then follow up with a dry cotton ball to absorb excess oil.

2. Avocado Oil

This popular salad dressing base is also helpful for beauty applications. Add some oil to a washcloth or disposable cotton makeup pad, then apply a soft touch to remove mascara, lip color, or eye shadows. If using a washcloth, simply launder after use and store it for its next use.

3. Coconut Oil

This oil has a creamy texture at room temperature, making it less messy to use than liquid oils. I like to put coconut oil on a cotton ball or washcloth and smooth it over my entire face as a skin moisturizer, removing makeup as I go. The oil will soak into the skin in about ten minutes, leaving your skin soft and makeup-free.

4. Hemp Oil

This lightweight oil can be applied like the others. It does have a hint of natural earthy fragrance, which may not be suitable for those with sensitivities to odors. If this is you, no worries! There are so many other plant oils to try.

5. Jojoba Oil

I don't go a day without using jojoba oil on my face. In the evening, I use it on a washcloth to whisk away my makeup from that day. On the days I've gone with a natural look, sans cosmetics, I still use the oil to hydrate my skin after being in the sun and wind.

6. Olive Oil

I've used this cooking oil for shaving, but it also works well to break down foundations and eye colors, too. Sometimes, I keep a small bottle in the bathroom just for my beauty needs. Apply it with a cotton ball or washcloth and wipe the skin until the makeup disappears.

7. Rosehip Oil

This oil is new-ish to me. I have a blend of jojoba, rosehip, and citrus oil that I recently purchased that has a swoon-worthy natural fragrance. It works as calming aromatherapy when I dab it on my face to remove makeup.

After reading this list, you may wonder if it's really okay to put oil on your face, especially if you already have oily skin. If you're concerned about this, look for a noncomedogenic oil, which means it is less likely to clog pores. A quick call to your dermatologist can help you understand which oils are safe for your skin type and personal care routine.

Whether you want to try these natural ways to remove makeup, experiment with natural cosmetics, or go makeup-free on occasion, there are so many ways to green your beauty routine. For more ideas, visit the @tomsofmaine DIY Naturally Pinterest board for inspiration!

Image Sources: Unsplash | Angela Tague | Angela Tague

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