How to remove waterproof mascara
Waterproof mascara is a beauty essential for lashes that last and don’t smudge. If you’re headed to the beach, to a wedding or just want your mascara to stay put all day long, waterproof formulas are a great option. But many people ask themselves an important question: how do you remove waterproof mascara without pulling out lashes or irritating sensitive eyes.
The good news: removing waterproof mascara doesn’t have to be hard. The right products and techniques allow you to flush your lashes without harming them, keeping them healthy and strong.
Why is waterproof mascara so hard to remove?
These are ingredients you won’t find in regular mascara. Waterproof mascara contains waxes, silicones and water-repellent ingredients that push water away. These ingredients help the mascara to resist tears, sweat, humidity and rain.
But that also means the formula can’t be broken down by regular face washes or just water alone. Rubbing harder often does more harm than good, causing:
- Broken or Brittle Lashes
- Annoyed eyes
- Red, teary eyes
- Loss of eyelashes early
It is important to know how to properly remove waterproof mascara for your natural lashes as well as the delicate skin around your eyes.
What do you need to remove waterproof mascara?
Before you start, arm yourself with a few gentle skincare basics:
- Oil-based makeup remover
- Waterproof makeup remover
- Cleansing balm
- Soft cotton squares
- Cotton swabs for detailed cleaning
- Gentle face wash
Oil-based products are particularly good because waterproof mascara dissolves in oils much more readily than in water.
Step 1: Soak a Cotton Pad
Apply a large amount of your favourite makeup remover to a cotton pad. Do not use it dry, as a fully soaked pad will enable the remover to dissolve the mascara without excessive rubbing.
Step 2: Place the cotton pad on your closed eye
Close your eye and hold the cotton pad on your lashes for 20-30 seconds.
This is a crucial waiting period. This gives the remover enough time to do its job and break down the waterproof ingredients, so it’s a lot easier to remove.
Step 3: Wipe Downward Lightly
Allow the remover to soak in, then gently wipe down, following the direction of your lashes.
Don’t rub back and forth as this can weaken lashes and irritate your skin.
Repeat the process if necessary until the cotton pad comes away clean.
Step 4: Remove the rest of your mascara
Sometimes there is a little mascara left at the roots of the lashes.
Soak a cotton swab with your makeup remover and gently wipe along the lash line. This helps prevent build-up of product, and also avoids unnecessary rubbing.
Step 5: Wash Your Face
Once you’ve taken all your eye makeup off, wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
Removes all traces of residual oils, makeup residue and impurities, leaving your skin feeling fresh.
Mistakes to Avoid
Many people damage their lashes by using the wrong removal techniques. Don’t make these common mistakes:
Excessive rubbing
Aggressive rubbing can irritate the delicate eye area and pull out natural lashes.
Using Water Alone
Water alone doesn’t do a good job breaking down waterproof formulas.
Not Taking Off Your Makeup Before Bed
Over time, sleeping in waterproof mascara can cause lashes to become brittle and break more easily.
Harsh Cleansers
Harsh soaps or alcohol-based products can dry out your skin and cause irritation around the eyes.
Natural Alternatives to Remove Waterproof Mascara
If you don’t have a dedicated makeup remover, some natural oils can help dissolve waterproof mascara safely.
Popular choices include:
- Coconut oil
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Almond oil (sweet)
- Jojoba oil
Dab a little on a cotton pad, press lightly on the lashes, remove before cleansing your face.
Always do a patch test with any natural oil if you have sensitive skin.
How often do you use waterproof mascara?
Waterproof mascara does stay on well but is generally best left for special occasions when you need that little bit extra staying power.
Waterproof formulas need stronger removers and more work to cleanse, so using them everyday may dry out your lashes over time.
Switch between regular and waterproof mascara to keep your lashes healthier.
How to Keep Your Lashes Healthy
Proper care is the foundation of healthy lashes.
To keep your lashes in tip top shape:
Take off all your makeup every night.
Do not pull or tug on your lashes.
Use mild eye make-up removers.
Change your mascara every 3 months.
Don’t share eye make-up.
If your lashes feel dry, reach for a nourishing lash serum.
You can cut down on breakage and keep your natural-looking fullness with consistent care.
How to Pick the Best Waterproof Makeup Remover
All removers are not created equal.
Look for products that:
- Oil-based
- Ophthalmologist examined
- Good for sensitive eyes.
- Unscented if you have sensitivity issues
- Waterproof makeup . . . Works on waterproof makeup
These quality removers require less rubbing and are much safer for everyday use.
Final thoughts on how to remove waterproof mascara
One of the easiest ways to protect your lashes and keep the skin around your eyes healthy is knowing how to properly take off waterproof mascara. Don’t scrub or pull, but rather let an oil-based remover melt the makeup, then gently wipe it away.
You can get waterproof mascara that lasts, and you can apply it properly without harming your natural lashes.
FAQs
How do you remove waterproof mascara the fastest?
The best makeup removers are oil-based and cleansing balms, which are the quickest and easiest to use as they dissolve waterproof ingredients with minimum rubbing.
Does coconut oil take off waterproof mascara?
Yes. Coconut oil is good for removing waterproof mascara. Apply a little onto a cotton pad and leave on your lashes for a few seconds before gently wiping it off and washing your face.
So, is it bad to wear waterproof mascara everyday?
Occasional use is fine, but wearing it every day can dry out your lashes because waterproof formulas need stronger removers. Switching between regular mascara and lash conditioners can help keep lashes healthy.
How do you take off waterproof mascara?
Most of the time the remover hasn’t been left on the lashes long enough. Apply an oil-based remover to your closed eye for 20–30 seconds, then wipe gently.
Will Micellar water take off waterproof mascara?
Yes, but you need to select a micellar water designed for waterproof makeup. Standard micellar water might have a hard time with highly water resistant formulas.
Is it bad to rub mascara off eyelashes?
Yes. Rubbing vigorously can cause lash breakage, irritation and even lash loss. Let the remover eat away at the mascara first, then wipe gently.
Contact WOW Cosmetics for more information.
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