Waterproof mascara can be tricky to remove but with the right techniques and products, you can effectively get it all off without irritation. I will provide tips on finding the right waterproof mascara for your needs and methods for removing waterproof mascara safely and thoroughly.
What makes mascara waterproof?
Waterproof mascara contains polymers that create a water-resistant film over the lashes. Common polymers used include vinyl pyrrolidone and trimethylsiloxysilicate. These polymers bond to the lashes and withstand moisture, making waterproof mascara ideal for activities like swimming, working out or when you don’t want your makeup running or smudging. However the polymers also make waterproof mascara more difficult to remove than regular mascara.
How to remove waterproof mascara?
The key to removing waterproof mascara is an oil-based cleanser or dedicated waterproof makeup remover. Oil dissolves oil, so it can effectively break down the water resistant polymers in waterproof mascara.
Here are some effective removal methods:
- Makeup remover wipes: Look for pre-moistened wipes formulated to remove waterproof makeup. Gently wipe the lashes and lids until the mascara comes off.
- Oil-based cleanser: Apply a small amount of oil cleanser directly to dry lashes and lids. Massage it in for 1 minute then dampen a cotton pad with water and wipe away the mascara. Repeat if needed. Effective oils include mineral oil, coconut oil and jojoba oil.
- Micellar water: Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water, a cleansing water formulation containing surfactants that lift makeup. Gently sweep over lashes and lids until the mascara is dissolved.
- Eye makeup remover: Apply an oil-based eye makeup remover to lashes and lids using a cotton pad or your fingers. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp cotton pad.
- Coconut oil: Melt coconut oil between your fingertips and massage it into lashes and lids for 1-2 minutes. Wipe away the residue with a warm, damp cloth or cotton pad.
Be thorough but gentle when removing waterproof mascara. Pulling and tugging at the lashes can damage them.
How to remove waterproof mascara from your lashes?
Here are step by step instructions for removing waterproof mascara:
1. Cleaning up mascara residue
Once you’ve removed the bulk of the mascara with your preferred remover or oil, there may still be residue clinging to the lashes. Take a cotton swab dipped in warm water or eye makeup remover and gently wipe each lash from base to tip.
2. Never skip skincare
To soothe eyes and prevent fallout, apply a hydrating eye cream or gel after removal. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants. This helps eyes recover from the tugging and pulling of removal.
3. Eyelash aftercare
Finish with a coat of water-based mascara, lash serum or clear brow gel to keep lashes separated, conditioned and defined. This protects lashes overnight from damage and breakage.
Find a waterproof mascara that works for you
While polymer heavy formulas make mascara waterproof, certain formulations may be easier to remove than others depending on your needs and lash type. Consider these factors when choosing a waterproof mascara:
- Wax content: Mascaras with more wax tends to be softer and easier to remove. Look for wax higher in the ingredients list.
- Brush fibers: Stiffer bristles may deposit more formula on lashes, increasing removal difficulty. Softer brushes apply a lighter coat.
- Lash type: Thin, fragile lashes fare best with gentle formulas. Thick, coarse lashes can tolerate heavier mascaras.
- Activity level: High impact water sports require maximum resistance. Low key activities like errand running need less indestructible formulation.
How to remove waterproof mascara the right way?
Proper technique is just as important as using the right remover when taking off waterproof mascara.
Here are some tips:
- Work in small sections for better control while rubbing remover in.
- Massage it into lashes with light, circular motions instead of pulling or tugging.
- Allow oil-based removers 30-60 seconds of contact time before wiping off for maximum effectiveness.
- If needed, do a second cleanse with a fresh cotton pad or fresh remover on tough spots.
- Wipe away from the inner to outer corners to avoid spreading mascara around.
- Clean under lashes and lash lines thoroughly where the formula collects.
- Lean forward over the sink for easy access and to catch falling flakes.
How to remove regular mascara?
For many, regular or water-resistant formulas remove just as smoothly with a few swipes of makeup remover:
- Apply eye makeup remover, oil or cleansing balm to a cotton pad and swipe over closed eyelids.
- Gently wipe your eyes open to dissolve and remove mascara in one sweep.
- No need for elbow grease let the remover do the work. A light touch avoids tugging lashes.
- For stubborn spots, re-saturate the pad and apply more remover before wiping again.
- Finish with splashing cool water or a moisturizer to refresh and soothe skin.
Regular mascara can usually be dissolved and removed quickly without fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Using an oil-based or waterproof makeup remover designed for your eye area is key. Massage it into lashes for 30-60 seconds before gently wiping away residue.
Good substitutes include mineral or olive oil, coconut oil, petroleum jelly or cold cream cleansers applied gently to lashes and wiped away.
Soap and water alone are usually insufficient to break down the waterproof polymers in most mascaras. The latters’ formula is designed to withstand water, so mild cleansers may not fully dissolve the makeup.
Final Thoughts
With the right techniques and products, you don’t have to dread removing waterproof mascara at the end of a long day. Approaching it with patience allows time for lashes to safely dissolve and conditioners to soothe. Finding a waterproof formula that performs well without irritation makes the whole process simpler. Regular mascara removal requires even less elbow grease. With practice, you’ll be a pro at getting mascara off while keeping lashes healthy and happy.
