How to Remove Waterproof Mascara In 3 Simple Steps

Let’s face it: waterproof mascara is a lifesaver for many occasions. Whether it’s a wedding, where the tears just won’t stop, or a hot summer day where sweat is unavoidable, this type of mascara ensures your lashes stay perfectly curled and coated. It’s basically the superstar of the makeup community, offering a performance that endures various conditions with grace.

However, when the day comes to an end, and you’re ready to tune down the volume on your dramatic eyes, you might find yourself in a little predicament. You see, while waterproof mascara is great at resisting smudges throughout the day, it can be quite stubborn when it comes to taking it off. Your regular face wash just won’t do the trick.

Luckily, we’ve got the golden tickets to keep your eyelash game strong without the stress of removal. The key is to be gentle and patient — giving your lashes the same VIP treatment as your favorite spa treatment. Below, we’ll be discussing how to remove waterproof mascara!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Prepare Your Space

Before we start the detailed process of removing waterproof mascara, it’s important to have the right tools on hand to make the procedure effective yet gentle on your delicate eye area.

First and foremost, invest in a high-quality makeup remover formulated to take off waterproof makeup. There are several options to choose from: oil-based removers, which are known for their efficiency in breaking down stubborn mascara; micellar water, praised for being gentle on the skin while still doing a great job; or makeup remover wipes, which are convenient and travel-friendly. Always choose a product that is suited to your skin type to avoid any irritation.

Next, have a stash of soft cotton pads or rounds ready. When used in combination with your chosen remover, these pads facilitate a gentle, non-abrasive way to wipe away mascara. It is always better to use these over regular tissues or towels, which can be harsh on the sensitive skin around your eyes.

Before you begin, ensure that you are in a well-lit space where you can clearly see what you are doing. Having a good mirror will also be beneficial, as it will allow you to see all angles and ensure that you remove all traces of mascara without hurting your eyes.

Step 2: Starting Off Gently

The key to removing waterproof mascara successfully is to do it gently and patiently. The skin around your eyes is incredibly sensitive, and a harsh approach can lead to irritation and damage. Here, we will guide you step by step to initiate the process carefully and effectively.

To start with, wash your hands clean to avoid transferring any dirt or bacteria to your eyes. Then, shake your makeup remover well to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. Pour a good amount of it onto a cotton pad, enough to wet it but not so much that it’s dripping.

Hold the wet cotton pad against your closed eyelid for about 15-20 seconds. This step is crucial as it helps in softening the mascara, making it easier to remove. Avoid rubbing your eyes harshly; instead, gently press and hold to start breaking down the mascara.

Next, with delicate strokes, start wiping the mascara off, moving the pad downward toward your lashes’ tips. It’s a good practice to use one side of the pad to wipe off the majority of the mascara and then flip it to the clean side for a final gentle sweep to remove any residues.

After you’ve removed a significant amount from one eye, repeat the process with a fresh cotton pad for the other eye. This helps in preventing any cross-contamination and ensures that each eye is given fresh, clean attention.

At this stage, most of the mascara should be off your lashes. However, it’s not uncommon to have some residues left.

Part 3: The Fine-Tuning Process

The primary removal phase is completed, but to ensure that not a trace of waterproof mascara remains, a fine-tuning process is warranted. This part of the process concentrates on the meticulous removal of the residues to ensure a clean and refreshing result, where your lashes return to their natural state, unburdened by any leftover makeup.

Begin with getting hold of a few Q-tips and your choice of eye makeup remover that is specifically formulated to remove waterproof makeup. Dip a Q-tip into the remover, shaking off any excess liquid before approaching your lashes. The idea here is to use the Q-tip as a precision tool, targeting spots where mascara stubbornly clings on.

Use the Q-tip to softly sweep along the base of your lashes, paying special attention to the roots, where mascara tends to accumulate. This not only helps in removing the makeup but also gets rid of any potential irritants that might be left clinging near your eyes, offering a deep clean that ensures the health of your lashes and the sensitive skin surrounding your eyes.

Post-Removal Care

After working through the careful procedure of removing waterproof mascara, post-removal care steps in as the finale, offering your eyelashes the nourishment and recovery they merit. This stage is a soothing encore, providing that extra touch of care to preserve the natural health of your eyelashes.

Start by rinsing your face with lukewarm water to remove any residual makeup remover products that might still be lingering on your skin. Gently pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel, avoiding any harsh rubbing that might irritate your eyes or skin.

Next, it’s time to nourish those lashes. Apply a nourishing serum or a simple castor oil using a clean eyelash brush or a Q-tip, working it gently from the root to the tip of your lashes. This step not only nourishes your lashes but encourages healthy growth, ensuring they remain strong and beautiful. When choosing a product, opt for one that is rich in vitamins and nourishing agents, giving your lashes a healthy, rejuvenated appearance over time.

The final step is to hydrate the sensitive skin around your eyes. Dab a tiny amount of a lightweight, hydrating eye cream around your eyes, gently massaging it in with your fingertips using outward circular motions. This will help in reducing puffiness and keeping the delicate skin supple and well-moisturized.