6 Makeup Removal Mistakes You're Probably Making, According to Dermatologists

You can spend hours perfecting your makeup, but if you're not taking it off the right way, you could be undoing all that work while you sleep. Dermatologists share the most common mistakes people make when removing makeup, and how to actually fix them.

On days when you’re tempted to rush through your makeup removal routine, think again. This can do more harm than you think.

When makeup is not properly removed, what’s left, such as oil and pollutants, can clog your pores, trigger acne, and speed the process of skin aging. If you’re doing any of these six makeup removal mistakes, then you’re not doing it right.

Woman cleansing her face | Source: Pexels

1. Skipping the Double Cleanse

The most effective method for removing makeup, recommended by dermatologists, is double cleansing. This involves using an oil-based cleanser first, or micellar water, to break down makeup and sunscreen. To remove any remaining dirt or sweat, washing with a gentle water-based cleanser should be the next step. These two steps are important, and you can’t skip either one.

Woman washing her face with a cleanser | Source: Pexels

2. Relying Only on Makeup Wipes

One common mistake is assuming makeup wipes alone can do the trick. Wipes may be convenient, but they aren’t enough to remove everything, resulting in a buildup, according to dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD.

Woman rubbing her eye with makeup wipes | Source: Pexels

3. Using Cotton Balls Instead of Pads

Another mistake is using cotton balls instead of flat cotton pads. While both are soft and made of cotton, balls have a tendency to break apart, leaving fibers on the skin or lashes, explains dermatologist Rebecca Kazin, MD.

Hand picking from a bowl of cotton balls | Source: Pexels

4. Scrubbing Too Hard

Dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, warns against scrubbing aggressively, which can leave the skin "unnecessarily inflamed and irritated." This leads to redness and dryness instead of clean, healthy skin.

Woman making a face while washing it | Source: Pexels

5. Rushing the Process

Another no-no is rushing through the process, especially when removing makeup around the eyes, where skin is thinner and more delicate. Experts recommend letting makeup removers sit for a minute or two before wiping, rather than relentlessly scrubbing off stubborn mascara or liner.

Woman using a cotton pad to wipe around her eye | Source: Pexels

6. Forgetting the Hairline and Jawline

Woman cleaning her jawline | Source: Pexels

Removing makeup properly each night isn't about scrubbing harder. It's about using the right products, in the right order, with a gentle touch.