Makeup Remover
After all has been said and done, this is the most important part of the makeup process. While makeup should be applied with the primary purpose of keeping it on, it shouldn’t stay on at the end of the day, no matter how elaborate and detailed the work that went into it. Makeup removal is done particularly for hygienic purposes, especially if the makeup is oil-based. An improperly removed makeup ends up as a breeding ground for dirt during the night, resulting in clogged pores and bacteria infestation, and the horror of early-morning breakouts.
Those who choose water-based makeup may remove all of it with the same face cleanser or astringent they use every morning. Oil-based makeup is stubborn and difficult to remove without leaving residue, so a special makeup removal product is necessary for the purpose. Like regular makeup, removers differ in terms of compatibility with skin type, so be sure you pick up a product which effectively complements yours. Use cotton balls in application, and make sure you let the solution set in before wiping it off. If the makeup seems stubborn and won’t wipe off, don’t be frustrated and practically scrape your facial skin in the process; try applying more amounts of the remover, and if this doesn’t work, you’ll need a stronger formulation altogether. Removal will significantly be hassle-free if waterproof mascara is avoided; the same goes with liquid eyeliners. If you feel that these variants are worth the trouble when it comes to removal, then by all means go with them.
Aside from the usual astringents which may contain alcohol and fragrant additives to irritate the skin, there are mild alternatives which are also effective, without the adverse side effects. Mineral oil is probably the best natural makeup remover. Baby oil is a good alternative to mineral oil, and it also has an added moisturizing effect during removal. Olive oil and almond oil are unconventional alternatives, but nonetheless efficient. For those with particularly oily skin, raw milk is a great option, since you won’t have to deal with more oil on your skin. It’s a no-frills makeup remover: just dip the cotton ball in a dish of raw milk and wipe away.