Shania Twain Uses Olive Oil And Sugar As A Makeup Remover - But Does It Actually Work?

Country star Shania Twain has an unorthodox beauty hack that she's integrated into her nighttime skincare routine. During a May 2024 video for Harper's Bazaar, Twain explained that she uses a combination of olive oil and sugar as a DIY makeup remover. "Anything oil-based does break down the makeup and flushes the pores out," Twain said. "So I don't use makeup remover per se. I really just combine the olive oil and the sugar. And I don't rub it in hard." Twain removed the mixture from her skin by wiping it off with a cloth wet with hot water, which she said helps with exfoliation. While olive oil could be the skincare product your routine is missing, it isn't for every skin type. Dr. Annette Czernik, a board-certified dermatologist based in Stamford, Connecticut, spoke with Glam exclusively about whether Twain's hack is really beneficial. 

Dr. Czernik explained that the main issue with Twain's DIY makeup remover is the sugar component. "Its crystals are rough and too harsh for your skin, especially near your eyes. Scrubbing with sugar can cause redness, irritation, and tiny damage to your skin barrier," Dr. Czernik said. "Adding oil might make it a bit gentler, but it won't make the sugar smooth enough for your whole face." Dr. Czernik believes that, if you've tried the remover hack before and had no issue, it should be fine to use at most once a week — if that. However, for those with sensitive skin, acne, or rosacea, it is best to steer clear of Twain's concoction. There are many viral beauty hacks that could be ruining your skin, and this one from the country singer may be another addition to that list. 

While Shania Twain's best hair looks prove she's never afraid to have fun, one of her beauty hacks may be a little too fun for our skincare routines. Twain's usage of olive oil and sugar as a makeup remover can potentially damage the skin by clogging pores and/or causing irritation through unnecessary friction. Glam spoke exclusively with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Annette Czernik to discuss what alternatives there are to Twain's go-to makeup remover hack. While Dr. Czernik affirmed that you can use olive oil to dissolve long-wearing or oil-based makeup, it shouldn't be a regular addition to your routine. "While it will leave your skin feeling soft, it is high in oleic acid which can weaken your skin barrier and lead to irritation for some. It also may feel too heavy for acne-prone skin and cause clogged pores," she says. 

Instead, she strongly suggests using a fragrance-free cleansing balm, cleansing oil, or micellar water followed by a gentle cleanser to preserve your skin's barrier. For those who are looking for all-natural alternatives for makeup removal, Dr. Czernik recommends jojoba or sunflower seed oil. "I would use only a small amount, massage it gently onto dry skin and remove it with a soft, damp washcloth," she says. "If there is still makeup or residue left behind, follow with a mild facial cleanser." Whether you choose a fragrance-free store-bought remover (her preference) or an oil, Dr. Czernik advises that you should stay away from the popular DIY ingredients advertised in viral hacks online like lemon juice, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils.