7 Common Makeup Removal Mistakes

Removing all of your makeup at the end of each day is an essential part of your skin care routine, but are you doing it right? From oil cleansing to rotating facial brushes, even the simple task of makeup removal has gone through countless trends, and it can be frustrating trying to keep up with the latest advice. However, there are a few timeless rules that should be followed to ensure makeup is removed properly, thoroughly, and without causing undue stress to your skin. 

An ideal makeup removal practice, like the rest of your skin care routine, keeps your skin supple and allows it to regenerate overnight, keeping it radiant and fresh. It might seem like the least important part of your daily routine, especially at the end of a long, busy day, but in fact, doing it improperly can undermine the rest of your skin care efforts. Here are the most common makeup removal mistakes, and what you should be doing instead.

Using the Wrong Products 

The skin on your face and neck is the most delicate on your body, and unfortunately, it’s also the area most exposed to environmental damage and free radicals. This is the reason we tend to put so much emphasis on facial skin care in the first place versus the rest of the body. When it comes to makeup, it’s important to remove it without resorting to harsh or abrasive products that are too aggressive for the delicate skin of the face. The easiest way to change your approach to makeup removal products is to stop chasing that “squeaky clean” feeling. While we equate that feeling with cleanliness, it actually means that you may have affected the skin’s natural lipid barrier, which is there for protection and to keep moisture locked in. Instead, opt for gentler products like micellar water or cream cleansers that are designed to clean skin gently. If you can speak to a dermatologist about the best products to use for your skin type, even better. 

Not Cleansing Thoroughly Enough

Because we all tend to remove makeup at the end of the day, when we’re tired and just want to get it over with, there’s a chance for the process to be rushed. We suggest that you resist fatigue as much as possible and pay extra attention to this part of your nightly skin care routine. The main reason being, that if you aren’t removing your makeup thoroughly at the start, you’re undermining the rest of your skin care efforts. Products don’t sink in well if the skin is marred with dirt and impurities—and that includes makeup. Makeup removal wipes are one of the biggest offenders in this case, as they tend to leave a lot of product behind on the skin. Instead, opt for a cleansing cream or micellar water to wash makeup away, followed by rinsing with clean water.

Being Too Rough

This might seem to contradict the point above, but it’s important for your skin that you achieve the right balance of cleaning thoroughly, but gently. As we mentioned, the skin of the face and neck is delicate. Scouring it with abrasive cleaners, makeup removal wipes, and facecloths are both harmful, and unnecessary. If your makeup is being stubborn to remove, invest a few extra minutes to remove it gently, instead of scrubbing harder. Also, when it comes time to dry your face make sure you’re using a soft cloth and use patting motions. Above all, avoid using physical exfoliants, ie. facial scrubs with micro-beads or other abrasives, as these have been shown to tear the skin.  

Using Water That’s Too Hot

Speaking of water, a lot of people think that hot water is more effective when it comes to washing the face and the rest of the body. It’s not. Adversely, hot water can be damaging to the skin’s natural lipid barrier, resulting in skin that’s dry, dehydrated, and dull. Cold water also isn’t ideal for dissolving products with an oil or glycerin component, which a lot of makeup has. Dermatologists recommend using lukewarm water throughout your cleansing routine, since it’s the gentlest and most effective route to clean, refreshed skin.

Going the DIY Route 

Apple cider vinegar, olive oil, yogurt, dish soap—these are just a few of the ingredients we’ve seen in the DIY cleanser recipes on the internet. However, anyone who cares about the health of their skin should follow a strict “Don’t try this at home” policy when it comes to concocting their own. The truth is, even if these DIY cleansers aren’t outright harmful, they probably aren’t doing anything good, either. We all want fewer chemicals in our homes and our skin care routines, but makeup removal products have been formulated specifically to take makeup off without harming the skin, and have to pass rigorous safety trials that DIY cleansers don’t.

Mistreating the Eye Area

All of the above goes double when it comes to the sensitive eye area. Start by using the right product, preferably a cleanser specifically for use near the eyes. Remove makeup gently but thoroughly, using cotton pads or their equivalent, without pulling or rubbing the skin too much. Do a check in the mirror to make sure makeup has been completely removed, since sleeping with product remaining can cause irritation and risk of infection.

Forgetting the Neck

Many people apply makeup to their neck and jawline in the morning and then overlook it when it comes time to take it off. Because the skin there is delicate, cleaning it thoroughly and gently is essential, especially because it’s one of the areas that is most prone to showing signs of premature aging. So make sure you include your neck in your nightly makeup removal routine, and don’t skimp on other areas that are easy to overlook, like the chest, hairline, and ears.

Get Glowing With a Facial Rejuvenation Treatment 

These, and other common skin care mistakes, are best avoided if you want to keep your skin looking the best it possibly can. You can also take your skin care routine one step further with an facial aesthetics treatment designed to deep clean your skin gently but thoroughly. All while using advanced technology and under the supervision of a qualified professional. 

Venus Glow™ uses purified water to open pores and pull dirt, excess oil, and impurities from below the skin’s surface, resulting in a more radiant, refreshed complexion. The micro-massaging tip then stimulates nutrients to spread through the derma layer and restore nourishment to tired, stressed skin. These facial rejuvenation treatments can also help with removing blackheads and is a fast, safe, and effective way to leave skin feeling noticeably healthier, cleaner, and more hydrated.

Find out what else your skin care routine is missing by contacting a treatment specialist using the search field below: