Are You Removing Your Makeup Correctly? The Skincare Step That Is Too Often Misunderstood
Every evening, a simple oversight in the choice or application of your makeup remover can throw your entire skincare routine off balance. Dull skin, redness, discomfort, blemishes... These signs may not be caused by your creams, but by an unsuitable makeup remover. Let's take an objective look at the different types of makeup removers, their real benefits, their limitations, and the good and bad ingredients to watch out for.
Makeup Removal: Much More Than Just a Cosmetic Gesture
The function of makeup remover is not limited to removing makeup. It also helps eliminate impurities. lipophilic (sebum, pollution, sunscreen) and hydrophiles (sweat, dust). Inadequate or incomplete makeup removal can lead to clogged pores, bacterial growth, and poor absorption of skincare products. It is therefore crucial to choose a cleanser that is suited to your skin type.
Overview of Makeup Removers: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Precautions
1. Micellar water: practical, but sometimes drying
Micellar water contains micelles, tiny structures that can capture makeup and impurities without rinsing. It is popular for combination to oily skin types because of its light texture. However, some formulas may contain harsh or dehydrating surfactants. Rinsing is often recommended to avoid irritating residue, especially on sensitive skin.
Please note: Not very effective against waterproof makeup.
2. Cleansing oil: an effective solution for all skin types
Cleansing oils perfectly dissolve oils and are ideal for removing heavy foundation or stubborn mascara. Their effectiveness is based on the lipid affinity between makeup and oil. For oily skin, it is recommended to choose a non-comedogenic oil (jojoba, hazelnut, etc.).
Caution Rinsing with hard water can irritate very dry or sensitive skin.
3. Cleansing milk: softness and comfort for dry skin
The cleansing milk gently cleanses while providing moisturizing action. It is suitable for sensitive, dry, and even mature skin. Its formula, enriched with nourishing agents (glycerin, shea butter), helps restore the hydrolipidic film. It does not require rinsing, which reduces exposure to irritants such as hard water.
Limit: Texture too rich for oily skin, risk of occlusive film sensation.
4. Cleansing/makeup remover gel: gentle cleansing for combination to oily skin
Gels contain cleansing agents that thoroughly remove impurities. Some modern gels include soothing or moisturizing ingredients (aloe vera, hyaluronic acid). Their effectiveness remains moderate on long-lasting makeup. Perfect for secondary cleansing (as part of a double cleansing routine).
Understanding Labels: Ingredients to Look for
Non-comedogenic vegetable oils
Choose light oils that are well tolerated and easy to rinse off, such as jojoba, sweet almond, or sunflower oil. They are highly compatible with the skin and have good cleansing power without clogging pores.
Plant esters
Derived from the light fraction of vegetable oils (caprylic/capric triglyceride), they provide a fluid texture that is easy to rinse off, while preserving the skin's softness.
Mild surfactants
In micellar waters or gels, certain mild surfactants such as polyglyceryl-4 oleate or the PEG-6 caprylic/capric glycerides are preferable to minimize the risk of irritation.
Ingredients to Avoid at All Costs
- Sulfates : detergent agents that are too harsh for the face.
- Silicones : clog pores in the long term.
- Parabens : preservatives suspected of being endocrine disruptors.
- Phthalates : often present in perfumes, should be avoided due to their toxic potential.
- Mineral oils : occlusive, derived from petrochemicals, with no dermatological benefits.
