The Best Way to Remove Makeup Properly This Party Season

Are we all in agreement that taking your makeup off at the end of a regular day is some kind of therapy, whereas removing makeup after a night out can be a real slog? We’ve all learnt the hard (and spotty) way, that sleeping with your makeup on comes at a real cost, because removing makeup properly comes with endless skincare benefits like hydration, less blemishes, and less texture.

So forget the dusty, crusty, dried out and dull next-day skin. It’s time to look forward to that post-night out makeup shed with the best and most efficient makeup removers and a full step-by-step guide from yours truly and Glow Up Season 6 Winner, Shania Parris. She’s here to share her top tips and products so you can find your best makeup remover for your glowiest, cleanest morning skin yet. That next morning mascara clump? No more.

The answer to the best way to remove makeup isn’t quick wipe of makeup wipes. The most efficient, and deep cleaning way to remove makeup is by following a double cleanse routine and then going in with dedicated eye makeup removal products.

Shania told why she swears by double cleansing and its benefits: “Always double cleanse! Firstly use an oil based cleanser, as this will melt away the makeup and break down any build up of oils sitting in your pores. Follow this with a gentle foaming cleanser which will remove any residue and thoroughly clean the skin. I promise you won’t regret adding a double cleanse into your routine.”

Firstly, go in with a cleansing balm, cleansing milk, or cleansing oil. Rather than a quick wash, you should gently massage the makeup remover into the face using circular upward motions for at least 60 seconds. Before washing off, wet your hands and massage the cleansing balm into your skin once again to emulsify the formula and allow the product to more effectively break down any stubborn makeup and SPF by penetrating deeper.

Our favourite first cleansers

1. By BEAUTY BAY Cleansing Balm

The By BEAUTY BAY Cleansing Balm went viral on TikTok for a reason, as it breaks down and melts away makeup quickly and effortlessly. It leaves skin clean, comfortable, and nourished, which is why Shania told us “it’s my favourite makeup removal product.” And thanks to its moisturising formula that features 86% naturally derived ingredients, it replenishes and leaves skin feeling calm. Top tip: Pair with the By BEAUTY BAY facial cleansing pads if you aren’t a fan of washing products off with just your hands.

2. The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm

Another gentle yet effective cleansing balm formula, The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm dissolves makeup and cleans the skin whilst soothing irritation and redness. It’s made with colloidal oatmeal and kernel oil, which are both suitable for even the most sensitive skin thanks to their moisturising and soothing properties.

3. Dermalogica PreCleanse

Honing all the benefits of a cleansing oil, including how effective they are at breaking down makeup, the Dermalogica PreCleanse is a first cleanse must-have. It sinks deep into skin to sweep away excess oil, sunscreen, environmental pollutants, and daily product build-up. If you have oily skin, this formula helps to nourish, unclog pores and prevent breakouts.

A second cleanse ensures your skin will be deeply cleaned, not just on the surface. It penetrates deeply into skin to unclog pores and remove makeup and impurities that your first cleanse hasn’t. By clearing your pores more effectively, you’ll reduce the chances of breakouts and with time, you should notice a brighter, smoother complexion depending on your skin type. But every skin type can benefit from double cleansing with a gel cleanser or water-based cleanser.

Shania told us that “removing your makeup correctly will allow your skin to breath, and a double cleanse routine will remove even the most stubborn makeup and break down any oils and bacteria that have built up during your busy plans. This will keep your skin in tip top condition ready for your next party.”

Our favourite second cleansers

1. AXIS-Y Quinoa One-Step Balanced Gel Cleanser

This AXIS-Y Quinoa One-Step Balanced Gel Cleanser works to remove environmental toxins and support the skin’s protective barrier, making it the perfect second cleanse. It’s enriched with coconut oil and corn-starch derivatives, this gentle formula cleanses your complexion without stripping the skin to leave it supple and moisturised.

2. Laneige Hyaluronic Cleansing Foam

Gently clean the skin and remove any makeup residue and dirt with the Laneige Hyaluronic Cleansing Foam. Described as a “bouncy foam cleanser”, skin is left smooth and soft after this second cleanse. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid, which is arguably the most effective ingredient for hydration, as it draws moisture into the skin and helps keep it hydrated.

3. Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash

As the name suggests, this Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash is a great option for your second cleanse if you have acne-prone skin. It washes away dead skin cells, dirt, and excess oils that clog the pores and cause breakouts. And it helps to further remove makeup and build-up whilst deep cleaning your pores and purifying skin using salicylic acid. It also features eight botanicals including tea tree, lavender, and camellia sinensis to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Your eyelid edge missed a lot in the makeup removal process, and it’s an area prone to build-up of eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara, so it needs some TLC. It’s important to take the time to remove makeup specifically from the eye area to avoid eyelash breakage and skin irritation. Simply dab your favourite eye makeup remover onto a cotton pad and hold it to your closed eye before gently wiping downwards. To be extra thorough on those heavy eye makeup days and night, sweep along the lash line too.

Our favourite eye makeup removers

1. Clinique Take The Day Off™ Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips

The Clinique Take The Day Off™ Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips is a one-swipe wonder. It features a kind-to-skin formula that doesn’t irritate or sting, and it effortlessly lifts and removes even longwear makeup, including waterproof mascara.

2. Florence by Mills Eye Makeup Remover

This Florence by Mills Eye Makeup Remover uses oil and water to break down stubborn eye makeup effortlessly. This way, you can gently and effortlessly remove any winged eyeliner, cut crease, or waterproof mascara without causing damage to your delicate eye area.

3. Avène Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover

Formulated with anti-irritant Avène Thermal Spring Water, the Avène Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover carefully removes makeup and other impurities around the eye area without causing any discomfort. Featuring a gentle, gel-texture, it doesn’t leave behind a greasy effect or irritate, so it’s the best eye makeup remover for sensitive skin.