How to Remove Makeup Properly: A Beauty Editor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Clean, Glowing Skin

How to Remove Makeup Properly

Removing your makeup properly is one of the most overlooked — yet most important — steps in any beauty routine. As a Beauty Editor with combination skin, I can confidently say this: no serum, facial, or expensive moisturiser will work to its full potential if your skin isn’t truly clean at the end of the day.

In an era of long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, and SPF-laden bases, a quick swipe of a face wipe simply doesn’t cut it. Improper makeup removal can lead to congestion, dullness, breakouts, and premature ageing even if the rest of your skincare routine is impeccable.

The good news? Removing makeup properly doesn’t need to be time-consuming or complicated. Below is my tried-and-tested, editor-approved method for a clean, calm, and glowing complexion even on nights when time is short.

Step One: Start With an Oil or Balm Cleanser

The most effective way to remove makeup is to begin with an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm. Oil dissolves oil meaning it effortlessly breaks down foundation, mascara, sunscreen, and pollution without stripping the skin barrier. Massage your cleanser onto dry skin using gentle circular motions.

Take your time around the eyes and along the hairline, where makeup tends to linger. This step should feel indulgent, not rushed — it’s where the real makeup removal happens. Once the makeup has fully melted away, add warm water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly.

• Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (especially effective for winter skin)
• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Cleansing Balm
• ESPA Optimal Skin Pro-Cleanser

Step Two: Double Cleanse for a Truly Clean Base

Double cleansing isn’t a trend it’s a professional standard. After removing makeup with an oil or balm, a second cleanse ensures that residue, sweat, and impurities are fully removed. Choose a gentle cream, gel, or milk cleanser that suits your skin type.

This step cleans the skin itself, rather than just removing surface makeup. If you’re short on time, focus your second cleanse on the T-zone and around the nose, where congestion builds fastest. Your skin should feel clean, soft, and comfortable never tight.

• La Mer The Cleansing Foam (for deeper evening cleanses)
• Laneige Cream Skin Cleanser
• Rodial Pink Diamond Cleansing Balm (can double as a second cleanse)

Step Three: Remove Eye Makeup Gently

The eye area is delicate and prone to fine lines, so harsh rubbing is never the answer. If you wear heavy eye makeup or waterproof mascara, use a dedicated eye makeup remover before cleansing or as part of your first cleanse.

Soak a reusable cotton pad, hold it over the eye for a few seconds, then gently wipe downward. Let the product do the work. This prevents tugging and protects the fragile skin around the eyes.

• Estée Lauder Take It Away Eye Makeup Remover
• Lancôme Bi-Facil
• Clinique Take The Day Off Eye Makeup Remover

Step Four: Tone (Optional but Beneficial)

Toning is optional, but I personally find it invaluable for restoring balance after cleansing — particularly if you live in a city or wear SPF daily.

Choose a hydrating or calming toner rather than an astringent formula. Apply with clean hands or a cotton pad, pressing gently into the skin.

• La Mer The Tonic
• Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner
• ESPA Hydrating Floral Spa-Fresh Tonic

Step Five: Finish With Night Skincare on Clean Skin

Once your skin is properly cleansed, your evening skincare can finally do its job. Apply serums, eye cream, and moisturiser to slightly damp skin to lock in hydration. This is where you’ll see the difference over time fewer breakouts, brighter skin, smoother texture, and makeup that sits better the next day.

• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum
• Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate 
• Sarah Chapman Skinesis Overnight Facial 

• Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Firming Night Cream
• Elemis Superfood Midnight Facial 
• Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

The Chic Style Collective Edit

Proper makeup removal is the foundation of great skin not a luxury, but a non-negotiable. Invest in one excellent cleanser, take an extra minute each night, and your skin will reward you with clarity, glow, and resilience. In beauty, consistency always outperforms complexity.

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