Valledor recommends opting for lighter formulations that won’t leave heavy residue behind and says to look for oils such as jojoba, camellia, or rice bran oil in formulations to enjoy skincare benefits (such as hydration for dry skin) as you’re removing product. If you want to go the all natural route for your waterproof mascara remover, Tiller recommends using coconut oil as it will be gentle on your skin and lashes.
Makeup Wipes
While they do get a bad rap, makeup wipes provide a super quick solution for removing waterproof makeup with just one swipe. Tiller likes the classic Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes, which does a good job of removing these long-lasting formulas and being gentle on the skin, while Bhatty recommends Sofie Pavitt’s Micellar Cleansing Pads.
Double Cleanse
For those heavy-duty smudge-proof waterproof mascaras, using a makeup remover or wipe alone might not be enough. That’s where a double cleanse comes in. “A double cleanse is your friend when it comes to [waterproof] makeup,” says Bhatty. “It’s the most effective and protective way to remove it.”
“I always love to double cleanse,” adds Tiller. You’ll first want to use an oil-based cleanser like the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm to break down product. Then follow with either a gel or cream-based cleanser, like the Tatcha The Matcha Cleanse Daily Clarifying Gel Cleanser or Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser, to remove any excess.
Micellar Water
With classics such as the French girl favorite Bioderma Sensibio H20 Cleansing Micellar Water, micellar water has long been a staple for removing dirt and impurities. It also becomes quite handy when wanting to clean off makeup without irritating the skin. Bhatty says you’ll want to soak a cotton pad and gently place it on the eye for a few seconds so that it loosens up the mascara. Then you can gently wipe product off.
But Valledor says micellar water might not be strong enough to remove some really tough waterproof formulas, so it may be best to consider it as the first part of a double cleanse.
Press and Roll, Don’t Rub
Regardless of which cleansing option you go for, all experts agree that you’ll want to be very gentle with your lashes—especially if you have sensitive skin. “The less rubbing the better,” says Tiller.
With makeup remover, Valledor says to soak soft cotton pads or soft reusable cloths with product and press them against the lashes for a couple of seconds. She explains this will dissolve the makeup so you can gently wipe it away. With your oil-based and cream cleansers, you’ll want to use circular motions with your fingers to gently roll the product off for a thorough cleanse.
Find Gentle Waterproof Mascara Formulas
Half the battle in taking off waterproof mascara takes place even before you put any makeup on. Being mindful of which type of to use will help tremendously in the removal process. Bhatty recommends a tubing mascara, which contains polymers that create a tube around the lash for easy removal. Her pick is the Victoria Beckham Vast Lash Mascara, which she calls a “dream to remove,” while we love the Milk Makeup Kush High Roll Tubing Mascara for a water-resistant formula that’s also super easy to take off for even the most sensitive eyes. For gentle formulation, Tiller likes Chanel’s Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof to give your lashes long-lasting color and lift.
