Removing makeup according to your skin type

Wondering how to remove makeup by skin type? Some cleansers and makeup removers are formulated especially according to skin type, to not only remove makeup residue but to also address specific skincare concerns. First, find out your skin type, then choose a formula — those with dry skin often prefer a hydrating, soothing formula such as a cleansing milk, whereas those with oilier skin tend to stick with lightweight gel or foaming cleansers.

Infused with the very best nature has to offer, our cleansers for different skin types whisk away all traces of your day-to-day makeup, leaving skin clean and refreshed. So whether you’re looking for a makeup remover for oily skin, dry skin or normal/combination skin, Clarins has got you covered.

For normal/combination skin, we recommend reaching for Clarins Cleansing Micellar Water; a lightweight, fresh makeup remover that leaves skin perfectly clean. Enriched with micelles and packed full of powerful plant extracts — such as Golden Gentian and Lemon Balm for their hydrating and soothing properties — this dual affinity (hydric and lipidic) cleanser is perfect for effortlessly removing makeup to give you radiantly pure skin.

For normal skin types who favour more heavy-duty foundation, add Clarins Total Cleansing Oil to your routine. With a rich, oil-based texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin, this plant-based product is great for removing heavy, long-wearing foundation with ease, as well as melting away SPF. In fact, 93% of women tested agreed their skin was left velvety-soft and makeup-free.

For sensitive skin that needs added nourishment, try Clarins Velvet Cleansing Milk. This creamy cleansing lotion is enriched with a Gentle Complex from our farm 'Le Domaine Clarins' (Organic Yellow Gentian and Organic Lemon Balm) which cleanses and comforts the skin while respecting the balance of the microbiota. The gentle plant-powered goodness makes it perfect for sensitive skin types.

How to remove eye makeup

Whether you rock a signature smoky eye or favour a more natural day-to-day look, eye makeup can be the hardest to remove. You may be tempted to just use your normal cleanser, but the skin around your eyes is thin, delicate and can be prone to sensitivity when it comes to fragrances or heavier formulas, so it’s important to treat it with care.

Instead of using your usual cleanser or a makeup remover for sensitive skin, we recommend using a dedicated eye makeup remover. Applied to a cotton pad to gently wipe away any leftover makeup before bedtime, Clarins Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover with calming Cornflower and soothing Aloe Vera is designed specifically for sensitive eyes.

Unsure of how to remove eyeliner or how to remove mascara? These products tend to have long-lasting pigments or even waterproof formulas, which can be especially tricky to take off. Try simply applying a small amount of eye makeup remover to a clean cotton pad or muslin cloth and place over your closed eye. Gently hold it against your eyelid for 10 seconds to allow any eye makeup to dissolve, then sweep over the eyelashes from root to tip. Try not to rub or drag the skin; this can cause irritation, soreness and even cause a few eyelashes to fall out. Not the desired effect!

An oil-based makeup remover can work well for heavy eye makeup as the oil softens and breaks down makeup residue, moisturising the surrounding eye area and nourishing your lashes. Clarins Instant Eye Make-Up Remover is a bi-phase lotion with softening Rose and Cornflower waters, soothing Camomile to keep sensitivity at bay, and ultra fine oils to break down stubborn eye makeup. Best friend to makeup artists everywhere and a bestseller for a reason.

How to remove makeup — wipes vs. without wipes

There’s no denying their speed and convenience, but using baby wipes as makeup remover is not a long-term solution for your skin. These single use wipes are as unfriendly to the planet as they are to your complexion; often containing strong synthetic fragrances and drying chemicals that strip your skin of its natural oils, which may lead to inflammation or breakouts. The action of using a wipe also rubs and drags across your skin, which at best causes irritation and at worst results in a loss of elasticity and tone.

If you’ve got into the habit and you’re not sure how to remove makeup without wipes, we recommend finding a good makeup remover matched to your skin type as well as your busy lifestyle. And if you really want to supercharge your skincare routine, we recommend giving double cleansing a go.

Alternatively, our Clarins Cleansing Micellar Water is a quick and simple option, charged with brightening and detoxifying Yellow Gentian and Lemon Balm extracts. It nourishes and cleanses while respecting the balance of the skin microbiota to leave you with fresh, clean skin in seconds.