The Most Hygienic Way To Remove Eye Makeup

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These days, eye makeup has come such a long way, being more long-lasting and containing super-strong pigments. While that's great for our repertoire, removing makeup isn't as simple as washing your face with water and your handy-dandy bar of soap. It's important to thoroughly remove waterproof eyeliner and mascara, as you don't want errant flakes to creep into your eyes, especially while you get your beauty rest. 

So, what's the best way to preserve your eye health? "In my practice, I always emphasize that the most hygienic way to remove eye makeup is using a gentle, oil-based cleanser or micellar water applied with clean hands or disposable cotton pads," Dr. Hannah Kopelman, dermatologist and founder of DermOnDemand, exclusively tells Glam. She adds, "Personally, I'm not a fan of disposable makeup wipes — they might seem convenient, but they often leave residue behind and can contain irritating preservatives or fragrances."

Dr. Kopelman also warns those who use washcloths to make sure to launder them frequently, as they can harbor bacteria. "What I often recommend to patients is keeping it simple: wash your hands thoroughly, use a gentle cleanser that effectively breaks down makeup, and rinse completely. It's about getting the job done without overstripping or introducing bacteria," she advises us. With the wide array of makeup removers out there, you may be confused about which to get, but according to our expert, there's one you'll definitely want to have on hand to safely cleanse your eyes.

When it comes to a safe and effective way to remove eye makeup, micellar water is a great alternative to makeup remover. Dr. Hannah Kopelman exclusively tells us that one of her favorites is Bioderma's Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, which is great for those with sensitive skin. The dermatologist adds, "Another great option I recommend is La Roche-Posay Respectissime Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover. It's formulated specifically for sensitive eyes, and it does the job without tugging or rubbing." She shares, "Just be sure to use a clean cotton pad or freshly washed hands with each use to keep things hygienic." With this combination of products, your skin should stay happy and healthy.

Another gentle product that will remove eye makeup is baby oil, which will do in a pinch if you're out of micellar water. Add a few drops onto a cotton ball or pad, and rub it onto your eyes until you've wiped off all your makeup. Once you've taken all the product off, wash off any baby oil residue with warm water and your preferred cleanser. If you're going to bed, you can also treat yourself to an under-eye mask to minimize dark circles and puffiness, which can help you wake up looking refreshed and ready to take on the day.