How to Properly Remove Your Makeup Before Bed

If your pillow could talk, what would it say about your makeup removal routine? Are you guilty of skipping a few nights (or more) per week? If so, you’re not alone. One in three women surveyed by the Daily Mail admitted to going to bed without faithfully removing their makeup.

The problem with skipping this important step in your skincare routine is that it’s one of the leading culprits for skin dullness, acne, eye irritation, and premature aging. Truth be told, you can actually reverse all the benefits of your morning routine by failing to follow through with a faithful evening routine.

Did you know?

Dermatologists say sleeping in your makeup interferes with the skin’s natural nighttime process of shedding and exfoliating. It also keeps the environmental pollutants that cause premature aging trapped in your skin overnight.

The good news is your makeup removal routine doesn’t have to be an exhausting affair. By following our minute-by-minute advice, you can prep your skin for bed in five short minutes. Okay, the clock is ticking! Let’s go.

Minute 1: If you wear falsies, remove those first. Then, grab your favorite eye makeup remover to remove your eye makeup. We love our Facial Cleansing Wipes for this step because they quickly remove waterproof makeup like mascara with a single wipe. If you like to layer your eye makeup, you can leave the wipe on the eyes for 10 to 15 seconds to loosen up the mascara. Avoid rubbing or tugging. Instead, gently swipe along the lash line from the inner corner of the eye outward. You don’t want to pull out your eyelashes during this step. Also, take care to remove any makeup on the waterline and bottom lash line.

Minute 2: Turn the wipe to an unused section, and repeat the same process on the other eye.

Minute 3: Now that your eye makeup is removed, use the wipe to remove your foundation, concealer, blush, lip color and any eyebrow gel. Work methodically from the middle of your face outward. Next, flip the wipe over to the unused side and take another quick pass at your entire face. Don’t forget your hairline or jawline.

Minute 4: Splash your face with warm water. Grab your favorite cleanser (opt for one formulated for your skin type and preferably without sodium lauryl sulfate, which causes skin to feel dry and tight). Place a dime-sized amount in your hand and rub it between both hands to create a light lather. Apply the cleanser all over your face in circular motions. Be gentle. This step only takes between 45 and 60 seconds. Any longer and you risk stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Thoroughly rinse your face and pat dry with a clean towel.

Did you know?

Towels are the ultimate bacteria traps according to Time magazine. A recent study found that nearly 90% of bathroom towels were contaminated with coliform bacteria and about 14% carried E. coli. Do your skin a favor and use a fresh towel to dry your face after cleansing.

Minute 5: Apply your favorite serum and nighttime moisturizer.

That’s it! Committing to setting aside these five short minutes every night will make a world of difference for your skin. And, if you need help remembering to do your nighttime routine, set a reminder on your phone to alert you right after dinner. Moving your routine up to a time slot that’s earlier in the evening (before you get too tired) can help ensure it’s always a priority.