Whether you’re just starting to get back into the makeup game or have been keeping up with your makeup routine throughout this pandemic, now is a good time to make the switch to more natural products that are gentle on your skin. When it comes to makeup removers, there are wipes, oils, cleansers, and more on the market to choose from. But there are also all-natural alternatives too!

When it comes to skincare, clean and simple is our motto. We always steer clear of parabens, phthalates, harsh ingredients, and toxic chemicals in the products we use to keep our skin happy. That’s why sometimes, it’s best to make your own beauty treatments with pure, single ingredient products! Without further ado, here are 3 all-natural DIY makeup removers that your skin will love.

Most oils work great for removing makeup using the oil cleansing method. Our top picks for oil cleansing include Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Argan Oil, and Jojoba Oil. Be aware that different oils work better for different skin types! If you are worried about clogged pores, steer clear of coconut oil which is more comedogenic than the other oils listed above.  

To use the oil cleansing method as a DIY makeup remover:

1. Use about a quarter-sized amount of oil and massage over your face, including your eyes, for one to two minutes. (No need to pre-wash or wet your skin.
2. Soak a clean washcloth in hot water and wring it out before placing it over your face.
3. Using the washcloth, gently wipe the oil from your skin. Repeat, if necessary, until all makeup is fully removed.

Rose water is cool and hydrating, and often used as a toner before moisturizing. But, it also works great as a natural makeup remover! Since it’s so gentle, it’s suitable for applying all over your face, including your sensitive eye area. Try this simple DIY recipe that pairs rose water with silky, soft fractionated coconut oil to gently remove your makeup without any friction or irritation.

DIY Rose Water Makeup Remover Recipe

Ingredients:
1 tbsp fractionated coconut oil
3 tbsp rose water

Directions:

1. Mix ingredients together in a small bowl or jar.
2. Take a cotton pad and soak it in the liquid.
3. Use a soaked pad to gently wipe off your makeup.

Micellar water has been all the rage for a few years now, touted as an all-in-one toner, makeup remover, cleanser, and moisturizer. Essentially, it’s water with oil particles suspended in it. When applied to your face, the oil helps to remove makeup and dirt, while the water hydrates your skin. You can make your own version of Micellar water, using Vegetable Glycerin, with this recipe:

DIY Micellar Water Recipe

Ingredients:

8 oz distilled water

½ tsp Vegetable Glycerin

½ tsp oil (Argan, Sweet Almond, or Jojoba)

Directions:

1. Mix ingredients together in a clean glass bottle or jar.
2. To use, soak a cotton pad with the mixture until fully saturated, then wipe across your face until you see no residual dirt or makeup on the pad.
3. Then, press and hold - press the pad gently to your eyelid and hold it in place for a few seconds, before softly wiping away. This method helps the oil act like a magnet to lift away makeup, dirt, and impurities from your skin.

If you’re trying to make the switch from conventional beauty products to clean and sustainable beauty, trying out simple DIY recipes with single ingredients is a great (and affordable) place to start! What do you typically use to remove your makeup? Are you looking for more natural options for your skincare routine?

Disclaimer: Always do a patch test when using a new product or formula. This helps you determine how your skin will react to a new substance before using it fully. If you experience any redness or skin irritation, discontinue use.