Deconstructing Makeup: The Right Way To Take Off Your Makeup
The Right Way To Take Off Your Makeup
You could be jeopardizing your whole skincare routine by not doing one step right. For the best skin, check out our expert makeup removal tips.
BY HANEEN ELMESWARIRight now your skincare routine might be as basic as it gets—just some makeup wipes and straight to bed. Maybe some moisturizer on those nights when you really need it, yet this could be the very reason you aren't getting the results you want with your skin.
Gone are the days of heavy complexion products and cakey makeup, and hello to dewy, glowing skin. From runway shows to viral Tik Tok videos, we’re seeing modern-day makeup trends turn away from an airbrushed, flawless look and embrace a more natural effect.
“Glass Skin,” a trend taking over beauty culture, refers to skin that looks flawless, poreless, and illuminated—so illuminated that it almost looks reflective. The term, originating in the K-beauty circuit, is often achieved through 10 to 13-step skincare routines. And influencers like Renee Chow and Sofia Grahn are embracing the glow by straying away from appearing perfect and loving their skin the way it is, naturally.
Although it may be seen as excessive and unnecessary to some people, when you break down these elaborate routines you find just three key steps: cleanse, treat, and moisturize. The most important of these steps? Thoroughly removing your makeup and cleansing your skin to leave your face with a clean canvas for your palette.
Every painting begins with a clean, smooth canvas, and your skin is no exception. In order to get the most out of your products, you need to have a solid foundation. This starts with making sure that last night's makeup came off.
Not taking your makeup off before bed can do more than just dirty your pillows, it can leave your complexion looking dull in the morning. Overnight, the makeup that helped you conceal those fine lines and blemishes can settle into your skin, making your complexion look dull and dry. It might even leave you appearing older!
Makeup left on during the night can also cause breakouts. You already have a protective layer of oil on your skin. When you add makeup on top of those oils and leave it on for prolonged periods of time, it can cause your pores to clog, leading to breakouts.
However, the effects of excessive makeup wear extend beyond your skin. People don't realize that makeup dries out everything on your face, not just your skin. Prolonged mascara wear can be detrimental to your lashes. When overused and not removed properly, mascara can dry out the lashes leaving them dry and brittle. Over time, this can also cause them to thin and even fall out.
If you’re internally freaking out because this is the first time you’re hearing this, don’t worry. The solution to your problems is the double cleanse.
The double cleanse is a relatively new idea in the skincare world. Originating in Japan and Korea, the purpose of the double cleanse is to remove dirt, cosmetics, and most importantly, sebum, which is a cause of acne. It can also help your other skincare products penetrate better. Because your pores are clean, they become better prepared to draw in your serums and moisturizers.
When double cleansing you first want to use a cleansing oil or oil-based balm. Don’t forget to always be gentle. While you may need to put in a little extra effort in some places, don't scrub your skin too hard, especially around your eyes.
After going in with your oil-based cleanser, you can then use a water-based one. These often come in either a cream or gel consistency. When removing your makeup, take your time! It’s better to leave the heavy lifting to your makeup removal product. Aside from that, skincare is an act of self-care, so enjoy the process.
The heavy lifting is all done, you now have your clean canvas, ready for all your skincare goodies. How you go about the rest of your routine is up to you and your skin's individual needs.
Your routine could be as simple as moisturizing or might include additionals, such as toners, treatments, and serums. If you’re experiencing dry skin, create a routine centered around hydration and moisture. Focus on ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and find a rich moisturizer to bring back your glow.
If your skincare concerns revolve more around treating breakouts, focus on using products with ingredients like salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and retinol. Be gentle with these as excess usage can result in dryness or more breakouts.
There’s no one-size-fits-all skincare routine, as someone’s routine can target several different concerns and include anywhere from 3 to 13 steps.
Getting your skincare routine right and mastering the basics can go a long way towards clearing up your complexion and giving you that ever-popular "glass skin" appearance. The most important thing you can take away from this? Implement the double cleanse into your routine and treat your skin as delicately as possible.
Skincare routines should be customized to the individual's needs, but all regimens should begin with a thorough cleanse. By implementing the double cleanse, you will not only look your best, but you’ll preserve your skin's health for years to come.
Originally Published in Blush Magazine
