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How To Remove Waterproof Mascara In 4 Simple Steps

By Sophie Joaman • August 26, 2024 • 6 mins read

Waterproof mascara is an essential staple in any beauty kit. Whether you’re watching a tear-jerker, hitting the gym, or simply need a mascara that lasts without smudging or flaking, waterproof mascara is your best friend. On the other hand, the thought of painstakingly removing makeup is enough to put people off using it altogether. The mascara itself is completely safe for your eyes and skin. The problem, however, is with improper removal and this is where certain issues can arise. For instance, without the right techniques, you might end up pulling or tugging at your lashes, which can cause damage, or scrubbing too hard, irritating the delicate skin around your eyes.

Using a gentle eye makeup remover can help prevent this and make the process easier without damaging your lashes. If you’re wondering how to remove waterproof mascara without causing harm, you’ll need to use the right products, as traditional removers may not work as well. Fortunately, removing waterproof makeup is straightforward with the right approach and products. An oil-based makeup remover is particularly effective for breaking down stubborn formulas. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can maintain healthy lashes and keep your skin feeling good.

A waterproof mascara remover that’s oil-based ensures that the mascara and eyeliner come off smoothly, without excessive rubbing. Plus, we’ve also rounded up some of the best waterproof mascaras to help inspire you to add one to your collection.

How To Remove Waterproof Mascara From Eye Safely

The best way to remove waterproof mascara is to thoroughly cleanse your eyes with a product specifically designed for makeup removing. This includes eye makeup removers, cleansing oils, and cleansing waters. These products effectively lift and dissolve the makeup, minimizing irritation to the eyes and skin.

Makeup Removers: Formulated to target and lift makeup from the skin, makeup removers are gentle and often suitable for sensitive skin types.

Cleansing Oil: Cleansing oils help loosen the mascara and break down and dissolve makeup residue, leaving your skin clean. They are particularly beneficial for dry skin, as they help maintain the skin’s hydration. However, those with oily skin might find that oil-based cleansers can exacerbate excess oil.

Cleansing Water: Ideal for all skin types, cleansing waters are especially effective for oily skin. They remove leftover makeup without adding extra oil, making them a great option for easy daily cleansing and on-the-go makeup removing.

With these products, you can ensure that your waterproof mascara is removed effectively while keeping your skin healthy and fresh. Using gentle motions to swipe the product across your lashes will ensure you effectively loosen the mascara while avoiding irritation. Choosing the right makeup remover for your skin type is key to ensuring you get the best results without compromising your skin’s health.

The best way to remove even stubborn waterproof mascara is through a thorough double cleanse. This method ensures that all makeup is fully removed, leaving your face feeling fresher and cleaner. Always end your skincare routine by checking that no residue is left behind—this is especially important when working with waterproof formulas or stubborn products that cling to the lashes.

Here’s How To Perform A Double Cleanse Effectively:

Woman gently washing her face in the bathroom, using a cleanser to remove makeup, demonstrating tips for effective waterproof mascara removal.

Step 1 – Cleanse

Take a clean cotton pad and apply a small amount of makeup remover, cleansing oil, or micellar water. Gently place the pad over your closed eye without pulling or tugging. Hold it in place for a few seconds to allow the product to break down the mascara, making for easy mascara quickly removal.

Step 2 – Wipe

Carefully wipe away the pad across your lash line to remove mascara. Be gentle to avoid irritating the delicate skin around the eye area. Use circular motions if needed to ensure the product dissolves completely.

Step 3 – Rinse

Wash your face with lukewarm water to remove any residual product. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Step 4 – Repeat

For a thorough cleanse, repeat the process again to ensure all makeup is removed. This step is especially helpful to remove waterproof mascara easily without irritating your eyes.

Can You Remove Waterproof Mascara Without Makeup Remover?

It is never really a good idea to use anything other than a makeup remover/cleanser. These products are specifically targeted towards safe makeup removal and are intended for this purpose. Similarly, Vaseline is too thick and can clog pores, causing heaviness on the lashes, which may lead to issues further down the road. So save yourself the trouble and stick to makeup removal products for the best results. For an even gentler option, you can also use oil and baby oil to slide the cotton across the edges of your eyes to remove stubborn mascara.

Our Favourite Waterproof Mascaras:

We can’t live without our waterproof mascara and eyeliner, and once you discover the top choices, you won’t want to either. Here are a few of our favorites that we think you’ll absolutely love.

1. Mac Stack Waterproof Mascara

The Mack Stack Waterproof Mascara is perfect for anyone looking for volume. The product itself comes in two different brush sizes for every type of lash. The great thing with this mascara is you can build volume as desired, no matter whether you have long or short lashes. Whether you’re aiming for a natural look or a dramatic finish, you can achieve it effortlessly. The formula is buildable and non-clumpy, allowing you to layer as much as needed for your desired effect. Additionally, it feels weightless on your lashes, providing a lift and curl that lasts throughout the day without sagging.

2. Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Get your curl on with the Essence Lash Princess Mascara. Its curved ‘peanut-shaped’ brush lifts and curls your lashes from the base, while the product combs through each lash, coating them in lightweight mascara for dramatically glamorous results. Enriched with jojoba, sunflower, and almond oils, this mascara not only enhances your lashes but also keeps them healthy and in top shape.

3. Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara

The Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara lengthens and defines your lashes for up to 24 hours. Its precision wand allows for complete control, building up coverage for a fuller, volumized effect. You can easily customize your look, whether you prefer a natural style for everyday wear or a more dramatic finish for a glamorous, almost false-lash look. Waterproof mascara is definitely worth it, especially when you know how to clean waterproof mascara without irritating the delicate skin around your eyes. By using water on a cotton pad combined with makeup remover to help, you can effectively gently wipe away your mascara without causing any damage.

Waterproof mascara enhances your lashes beautifully, ensuring they look stunning and stay that way throughout the day. So don’t miss out on the many benefits of waterproof mascara. Instead, try out the double cleansing routine and get waterproof mascara off effortlessly for dreamy lashes!

Author Image

Sophie Joaman

Sophie Joaman is a freelance writer with a real love and focus for fashion, beauty, lifestyle and culture. With a Master's degree in Journalism and Media Communications, Sophie is ​​currently an ongoing contributing freelance writer for Cohorted Cult-sister website of beauty subscription box Cohorted. She was also a contributing writer during London Fashion Week and London Fashion Week: Men's from 2015-2018.

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