How to Remove Waterproof Mascara and Makeup

Waterproof mascara can be a great option for days when you can’t spare the time or energy for touch-ups. The only downside: How do you remove waterproof mascara at the end of the day? Truth is, when you’re applying H2O-proof mascara, you probably won’t be giving all that much thought to how you’ll get your mascara off later on. Then all of a sudden, it’s midnight, and you’re left with lashes that seemingly won’t come clean. But even if removing waterproof mascara and other waterproof makeup is difficult, don’t let that deter you from wearing it. Instead, ready yourself with waterproof mascara remover and the right removal tactics. Below, we’re sharing three options for how to remove waterproof mascara and other longwear makeup.

HOW TO REMOVE WATERPROOF MASCARA

Learning how to take off waterproof mascara isn’t as impossible as you thought. In fact, there are a number of ways, from micellar water to makeup removing towelettes to traditional waterproof eye makeup remover, to do just that. The best part: None of these options involve harsh rubbing, which is something you definitely want to avoid—especially when it comes to your delicate eye area!

HOW TO USE MICELLAR WATER TO REMOVE WATERPROOF MASCARA

Micellar water is a gentle cleansing option that can also be used to remove mascara—yes, even the waterproof kind. The L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types is powered by tiny micelles—oil molecules—that act like a magnet to help lift dirt, oil, and makeup up and away from the skin. It removes mascara, including waterproof formulas, cleans dirt and impurities, and intensely purifies—no rinsing or rubbing required! Aside from removing waterproof mascara, it can also be used on your face and lips. Not to mention, it’s suitable for all skin types—even sensitive skin.

How to use it: Hold the pad over closed eyes for a few seconds and then gently wipe to remove. To remove waterproof lip or face makeup, saturate a cotton pad with the micellar water and wipe the pad over your face until your skin is completely clean. You don’t have to follow up with any rinsing.

HOW TO USE MAKEUP REMOVING TOWELETTES TO REMOVE WATERPROOF MAKEUP

We get it: When you’re exhausted after a long day, the last thing you want to do is stand in front of your bathroom mirror scrubbing your lashes until you get every little last bit of waterproof mascara off. And it doesn’t have to be that way! Stash a pack of the L’Oréal Paris Ideal Clean™ Makeup Removing Towelettes, All Skin Types on your nightstand for easy access, and you can remove your mascara in bed. It doesn’t get much better than that! These ultra-soft, alcohol-free makeup removing towelettes gently cleanse and remove all traces of makeup, even waterproof mascara and long-wear makeup.

How to use it: All you have to do is take a towelette out of the packet and wipe away! Just make sure you close the pack afterward, so the other wipes don’t dry out. Follow up with moisturizer—keep your fave close to your bed as well so you can easily find it. Need a recommendation? Try the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Dry Skin, or L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Extra Dry Skin.

HOW TO USE TRADITIONAL EYE MAKEUP REMOVER TO REMOVE WATERPROOF MAKEUP

Are you a fan of traditional eye makeup remover? You know, a liquid in a bottle that can be poured onto a cotton pad or swab. If that’s the case, look no further than the L’Oréal Paris Clean Artiste Waterproof & Long Wearing Eye Makeup Remover. This double-action formula gently and easily removes waterproof mascara and long-wearing eye makeup without leaving behind any greasy residue.

How to use it: Saturate a cotton pad with the makeup remover, close your eyes, and gently sweep the cotton pad across your lids. Do this gently and you should be good to go!

Want to learn more about proper makeup removal? Here’s the scoop on The Right Way to Remove Eye Makeup.