How to Properly Use Face Cleansers to Remove Heavy Makeup

Alexandra Beth
by Alexandra Beth

If you’re anything like me, you love the process of putting on makeup — getting all glammed up and experimenting with different looks... but then it’s time to take it all off again!


In this tutorial, I’ll talk you through the process of how to properly use a face cleanser and how to thoroughly remove your makeup so you don’t wake up to breakouts and dry skin. Grab your favorite skincare products and let’s get into it. 

Tools and materials: 

  • Oil cleanser 
  • Cotton pads
  • Face cleanser
  • Silicone brush head or exfoliating tool (optional)
  • Lash serum (optional)
  • Skincare products (moisturizer, etc.)

1. Removing false lashes

First things first — let’s talk about how to remove false lashes. I know they look fabulous, but they’ve got to come off before you start cleansing.


Gently pick off the glue from your false lashes and then gently pull them loose. You can generally reuse them several times, so make sure to store them away for another day.

How to remove false lashes

2. Choose your oil cleanser

The key to removing heavy makeup is using an oil cleanser. Seriously, it’s a game changer.


Whether you're dealing with waterproof mascara or full-coverage foundation, an oil cleanser will melt it all away with ease. And here's the best part—it doesn't have to be expensive! I’m a big fan of affordable oil cleansers.


3. Applying the oil cleanser

If you’re using a liquid oil cleanser, take a few pumps into your hand. If it's a balm, scoop out a little bit and rub your hands together until they’re fully coated.


The key here is technique: use large, even sweeps from the base of your palm to your fingertips to apply the oil all over your face.

How to properly use face cleanser

Start on the largest parts of your face, like your cheeks and forehead, and then work around your nose and into your eyebrows. Make sure to get in between those tiny hairs to lift off every last bit of makeup.


4. Focus on the eyes

When it comes to your eyes, I recommend saving them for last. Why? Because eye makeup is the most visible, and if you start there, you might miss other spots on your face.


Once the oil is evenly spread, gently massage your eyelids and lashes, making sure the oil dissolves all that stubborn eye makeup.

How to properly use face cleanser

5. Rinse off the oil

Here’s a cool thing about oil cleansers—they don’t stay oily. Once you add water, they magically transform into a milky liquid that rinses off easily, leaving your skin clean and soft.


If you’re new to this and worried about missing a spot, you can follow up with a cleansing water or just some water on a cotton pad to double-check.

Skin after first cleanse

6. Double cleanse

Now, onto the face cleansing routine. After you’ve removed your makeup, it’s time for the second cleanse. This step is super important because it ensures that your skin is treated with whatever ingredients your cleanser has to offer.


You can use your fingertips to work the cleanser in, or if you’re like me and love a little extra exfoliation, grab a silicone brush head. It’s perfect for making sure your cleanser does its job thoroughly.

How to properly use face cleanser

7. Apply your skincare

Once you’ve double cleansed and rinsed everything off, your skin is a clean canvas, ready to absorb your skincare products.


Whether you’re using a lash serum (like the one I’m loving right now!) or your favorite moisturizer, you can rest easy knowing they’re working effectively — not fighting through leftover makeup or dirt.

How to properly use face cleanser

How to use a face cleanser and properly remove heavy makeup 

And that’s it! That’s how I remove my makeup perfectly, keeping my skin clear and glowing.

Clean and moisturized skin

If you’re new to this, don’t worry—it’s all about finding the right products and techniques that work for you. 


If you found this tutorial helpful, drop a comment down below. 


Next, check out this post on Face Shaving 101: The Benefits of Shaving Your Face and How to Do It.

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