Expert Makeup Removal Tips, Just in Time for Holiday Parties

From Halloween to New Year’s Eve, the most festive time of the year is just around the corner, and while you’re pinning the beauty looks you want to try this season, it’s worth giving a bit of thought to your skincare routine as well.

Whether you’re the type to go bold with an emerald sparkly eye and perfectly glossy lips, or you prefer a red lip and a bit of highlighter, washing it all off (not to mention Halloween face paint!) can be a feat in and of itself. To ensure every last speck of shimmer, foundation, mascara, and blush are removed this holiday season, prep your skincare regimen now with this easy expert advice.

Pre-Cleanse with an Oil-Based Cleanser

Oil-based cleansers are a gentle, effective way to clean your skin — especially if you’re in need of serious makeup removal.

“Oil is excellent at dissolving waterproof and otherwise resistant makeup, as well as excess oils, dirt, and buildup from throughout the day,” says Brianna Delesparra, who works as both a licensed esthetician and makeup artist. “The key is to emulsify the oil in your hand and then apply it to a dry face with your makeup on. After massaging it into your skin for 1-2 minutes, you can then rinse it off with warm water.”

It may sound like a mess, but oil cleansers — including our OIL OBSESSED Total Cleansing Oil — are formulated specifically to quickly emulsify, break down product, and then rinse away cleanly. They also help with hydration, which is a bonus in winter weather.

Use Soft Fabric on Your Eye Area

Even if you didn’t opt for a full-blown smoky eye, there’s a good chance you’re wearing mascara and/or eyeliner to your holiday parties. Just before rinsing away the oil-based cleanser, use a gentle cotton round or soft fabric to gently remove eye makeup.

“I personally prefer a soft facial flannel because it can be rinsed, washed and re-used, but the most important feature is that it’s not abrasive,” says Geoffrey Rodriguez, a celebrity makeup whose clients include Gigi Hadid, Padma Lakshmi and Emma Watson. “The last thing you ever want to do is over scrub your skin with a rough towel — which may be tempting when wearing heavy makeup — because this can cause irritation.”

Follow Up with a Foam or Gel Cleanser

Washing your face twice may seem unnecessary, but the double cleanse is a part of many peoples’ skincare routines. Just think of the extra effort as a spa-like gift to yourself, all season long.

After completing the above steps, grab your favorite gel or foam cleanser to help remove any residual traces of product, grime and dirt. Delesparra says, “Wet your face with water again, then apply the cleanser to your hands and rub it a bit so it’s evenly dispersed. Massage the cleanser into your skin using circular movements all around your face until every area is covered, then wash off with cool water.”

We’re partial to PURE PLUSH Gentle Deep Cleansing Foam, which is rich in minerals such as Magnesium, Potassium and Calcium that help nourish, purify and refine skin. If you have any trace amounts of eye makeup left after double cleansing, you can also use Mineral Cleansing Water, a no-rinse micellar water, to gently sweep stubborn product away.

Exfoliate for a Natural-Looking Glow

Exfoliating your skin every single night isn’t mandatory, but it can help keep skin vibrant, glowing and healthy-looking. It can also come in handy after a night of heavy makeup.

“Proper exfoliation removes the barrier of dead skin cells that clog the skin and uncovers fresh new cells. This allows products such as serums, oils and moisturizers to penetrate deeper into the skin, making them more effective,” says Delesparra. You can use either a physical exfoliator or a chemical exfoliator like PORELESS Exfoliating Essence, which acts as a gentle fruit acid micropeel.

Tone Like You Mean It

Toner is often overlooked in a daily skincare regimen, but it’s an important step that rebalances your skin’s pH level and sets it up for products. It’s especially beneficial after a more aggressive cleanse. Rodriguez says, “After all your makeup has been totally removed, take your favorite hydrating toner and pat it onto your skin. This method stimulates circulation and allows the product to thoroughly absorb.”

Treat Yourself with Extra Hydration

Once skin is thoroughly cleansed and toned, it’s time to go big in the moisture department. Start with a serum, like our favorite SKINLONGEVITY Vital Power Infusion.

“Serum essentially acts as a lightweight moisturizer, and because of the way it’s formulated it allows active ingredients to penetrate deeper than regular moisturizer,” says Delesparra. “Also, using a serum regularly can improve the tone and texture of your skin, and give you an overall more radiant complexion. When applying, press or pat the product into the face instead of rubbing it.”

After applying your serum, double down on hydration with your preferred cream. This step is super important because it helps prevent dry or dehydrated skin, protects sensitive skin, and improves overall tone and texture. Delesparra says to think of moisturizer as a temporary barrier that helps hold in water while plumping and nourishing.

This skincare regimen works for all seasons and reasons, but it’s especially important to follow a makeup-removing skincare routine when you’re dialing up your look with lots of layers of product. The more thorough you are when cleansing post-party, the happier your skin.

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