Easy, Gentle Ways to Take Off Your Makeup without Makeup Remover

PDF download Download Article
10 DIY makeup removers you probably already have at home
PDF download Download Article

It’s been a long day, and when you reach for your makeup remover, you find that you’re out. You don’t have the energy to go out again, so what do you do? Can you just leave your makeup on? Well, no. That wouldn’t be very healthy for your skin. But luckily, there are plenty of other things you can use to remove your makeup, and many of them can be found around your house! Keep reading to learn how to remove makeup without makeup remover.

Can you remove makeup without a makeup remover?

Yes, you can remove your makeup without makeup remover or wipes with micellar water, a cleansing balm, coconut oil, aloe vera, or moisturizer. Gently massage the product into your skin, wipe away, and rinse. Repeat to make sure the makeup is fully removed and your skin feels fresh and clean.

Section 1 of 4:

What to Use to Remove Makeup

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Micellar water is the most common go-to way to remove makeup because it acts as both a cleanser and makeup remover. Simply dampen a cotton pad with the water and gently wipe your face. For stubborn makeup, hold the damp cotton pad over the area to loosen the product and wipe it away. [1]
    • Keep in mind that micellar water won’t remove all makeup. It may take longer to remove stage or waterproof cosmetics with it.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Jojoba oil is a great DIY makeup remover that’s naturally non-comedogenic and won’t clog your pores. [2] Place a small amount of the oil in your hands and gently massage it into your face in circular motions. Then, rinse the oil and loosened makeup away with warm water.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Coconut oil is an excellent natural DIY makeup remover (plus, it moisturizes your skin). All you have to do is place a bit of oil onto your hands and gently massage it all over your face, making sure to close your eyes when removing eye makeup. Rinse away the oil when you’re done, and pat dry with a towel. [3]
    • Coconut oil can clog your pores, so always wash your face thoroughly after using it.
    • Make sure your coconut oil is “virgin” or pure, as this product is the most organic and beneficial for the skin.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Aloe vera can be used directly from the plant or in a 100% pure product . Simply break off a piece of the plant and squeeze out some of the oil, or dab a small amount of product onto your hand. Then, massage the oil into your face in circular motions. Rinse off the oil to cleanse away the makeup.
    • Be careful when using aloe vera around your eyes, as it can cause irritation, stinging, and redness. [4]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Olive oil moisturizes the skin while removing makeup. So, if you’re out of makeup remover, head to the kitchen and grab the oil. Dab a few drops into your palm or fingertips and apply it to the skin. Massage it all over your face in circular motions. Then, wipe the oil off with a cotton round or washcloth and rinse. [5]
    • Olive oil can clog your pores, so make sure to wash your face thoroughly after using it to remove your makeup.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/40\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/40\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Baby oil is a great product to use to remove makeup around the eyes. Wet a cotton round or pad with a bit of baby oil, then gently wipe the eyes and surrounding skin. Make sure to rinse the skin and eyes thoroughly after using baby oil to ensure the product and makeup are removed. [6]
    • This product can dry out the skin, so use it in moderation.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cleansing balms are all the rage these days because they help remove makeup while purifying your skin. For most cleansing balms, all you have to do is scoop the product into your hand, gently massage it into your skin, and then rinse.
    • Always follow the instructions on your chosen product for the best results.
  8. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Your regular moisturizer can be used in a pinch to remove your makeup. Squirt a small amount onto your fingertips and massage it into your skin. Then, use a damp washcloth or cotton pad to wipe off the moisturizer and loosened makeup. Wash your face once all your makeup is removed to ensure no leftover product is on your skin.
    • Even though you’re using moisturizer to remove your makeup, it’s still important to moisturize as usual immediately after washing your face. [7]
  9. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Lip balm can help remove stubborn lipstick in a pinch. Simply apply a thick layer of your favorite lip balm to your lips, then rub your lips with a tissue. Keep applying layers of lip balm and rubbing until the lipstick is removed.
  10. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Believe it or not, you can use water (and soap) to remove your makeup. While using water alone won’t be as efficient as using an oil or cleanser, it can still get the job done. Wet a washcloth or cotton round with warm water and press it onto your face to loosen the makeup. Then, rinse, wash your face with soap, rinse again, and repeat as needed.
    11. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

General Tips on Removing Makeup

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    No matter how you remove your makeup, you should always be very gentle. [8] Your skin is delicate, and even if you don’t have sensitive skin, it’s fragile. So, always use a gentle, careful hand. Opt for massaging products with circular motions instead of scrubbing and patting your face dry with a towel. [9]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Even if you think you’ve removed all your makeup the first time, always use your chosen removal method twice. The first cleanse typically only removes the first layers of makeup, and there’s often still grime and product left on your skin afterward.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When in doubt, aid the makeup removal process and cleanse your skin with steam. The hot steam from a shower or boiling kettle can give you a deeper cleanse and help “melt” away makeup. Do a facial at home by turning on the shower before removing your makeup to heat the bathroom, standing over a pot of boiling water, or placing a hot towel over your face. [10]
    • Facials are also excellent ways to hydrate your skin and release acne-causing bacteria.
    4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 4:

Why is it important to remove your makeup?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Leaving makeup on overnight can irritate your skin and create pimples (especially if you have acne-prone skin). Even if you’re using non-comedogenic products (products designed not to clog pores), it’s always best to remove makeup to protect your skin, especially before going to bed. [11]
    • As professional makeup artist Katya Gudaeva says, “The number 1 rule is to never go to bed with makeup on.” She reiterates, “Your skin is an organ, and it needs to breathe after the whole day.” Gudaeva recommends removing your makeup and washing your face first thing when you get home for the day. This way, if you fall asleep, you won’t have to worry!
Section 4 of 4:

Are makeup wipes bad for you?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-Take-Off-Makeup-Without-Makeup-Remover-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While convenient, makeup wipes aren’t the best method to remove your makeup. These wipes often contain harsh ingredients like parabens and surfactant cocamidopropyl, which can irritate the skin. Dermatologists recommend only using makeup wipes in dire situations and always opt for a good facial cleanse or scrubbing. [12]
    2. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Apply White Makeup (Face Paint, Clown Makeup, & Foundation)
      How to
      Look Sick with Makeup
      16 Tips and Tricks for Applying Ageless Eye Makeup (For Women Over 50)
      What's the Right Age to Start Wearing Makeup? A Guide for Parents and Kids
      How to
      Fix Dried Out Eyeliner Gel
      The Viral TikTok Sensation “Siren Eyes” & How to Get Them
      What’s the Real Reason Women Wear Makeup?
      How to
      Keep Eyeliner on Your Waterline All Day
      How to
      Stop Eyeliner from Smudging
      How to
      Apply Mousse Foundation
      How to
      Apply Makeup as a Man
      How to
      Apply Illuminator
      How to
      Tell if a MAC Cosmetics Product is Fake
      How to
      Cover Acne Scars with Makeup
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-micellar-water
      2. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/jojoba-oil-benefits
      3. ↑ https://www.ipsy.com/blog/coconut-oil-makeup-remover
      4. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      5. ↑ https://www.self.com/story/can-you-wash-your-face-with-ol
      6. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/tips/a25885/baby-oil-beauty-uses/
      7. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/face-washing-101
      8. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/makeup
      9. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/face-washing-101
      1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-steaming-your-face-good-for-your-skin
      2. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/makeup
      3. ↑ https://www.today.com/health/skin-beauty/do-makeup-wipes-clean-face-rcna81205

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,479 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement