The Best Ways To Remove Your Makeup Before Bed

After a long day, taking off our face is often the last thing we feel like doing. There are no ways to remove makeup that consist of simply snapping our fingers and having it instantly disappear, so we'll probably forever dread the process. Going to town on that stubborn mascara seems like such an obstacle in the road to a good night's rest when our tunnel vision sets all sights on our beds. Curse those waterproof products that just won't seem to budge from our eyelids!

However, removing your makeup properly should be a priority you make time for even when you're dying to catch some Z's. Makeup removers and wipes are easily accessible and often get the job done quickly, but aren't always the best solution, especially if you're trying to go the all-natural route with your beauty routine. Instead, there are plenty of great alternatives for removing your makeup that can be just as speedy as they are beneficial for your skin. The next time you're looking to remove your makeup in a flash, give those formulas and wipes a break and try one of these seven methods that'll make the process less of a pain.

1. Baby Wipes

Elements Baby Wipes, $16, Amazon

I'm sure we've all gone through the phase of using makeup remover wipes as our nightly go-to for taking off our makeup. Sure, they work for most people, but if you've noticed they dry out or irritate your skin, I've found that baby wipes can make for an ultra-hydrating alternative. They're gentle enough for a baby's tush, so it only makes sense that they're not too harsh for our skin.

2. Coconut Oil

Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil, $13, Amazon

There was no turning back once I began using coconut oil as my makeup remover. I instantly fell in love with how well it works. As cosmetic chemist Joseph Cincotta told Allure, coconut oil will break down your most stubborn, water-resistant makeup without a ton of scrubbing and pulling at your face. Plus, it's known for being a great moisturizer.

To get the most out of the stuff, massage a quarter-sized amount into your palms and gently rub it onto your face or use your coconut oil on cotton pads. When you live in 100 degree Atlanta weather like me and your coconut oil melts daily, it works even better (though it's totally okay to use it in its solid form). After getting rid of my makeup using this method, I usually wash my face with sensitive, unscented Dove soap to ensure I've removed all of the goop from my face.

3. Steam

It may sound silly, but when it comes to makeup removal, steam is your friend. Try filling your sink with steaming hot water (not boiling) and leaning over it for a few minutes. According to StyleCaster, the steam will unclog your pores, making it much easier for you to remove your makeup with your regular face soap. Alternatively, you can remove your makeup with an oil or baby wipes and steam your face afterwards. Simply soak a washcloth in hot water, let it cool off for a few seconds, and place it on your face. When the cloth has cooled, you'll notice how well all of the dirt and impurities on your face seem to melt away as you wipe your face.

4. Baby Oil

Himalaya Nourishing Baby Oil, $8, Amazon

DIY beauty mavens have long sworn by baby oil as a gentle makeup remover. Just like coconut oil, it can remove the makeup that just doesn't want to part ways with your face. As an added bonus, a little goes a long way, so you'll appreciate how much moola baby oil can save you in the long run.

5. Milk

Please refrain from laughter while reading this next tidbit. Yes, I did mean to say you can use milk to take off your makeup! Grab that last swig of milk from your fridge (R.I.P. to the Cocoa Puffs you were going to have in the morning), mix it with a few drops of sweet almond oil and you've got the perfect makeup remover. Apply the mixture to your face with a cotton ball, rinse your face clean and voilà! Though this method is inexpensive and naturally cleansing, you'll of course want to keep track of your milk's expiration date before you smear it on your cheeks.

6. Cucumber

Cucumbers are for more than just throwing them on your eyes when you're in full on spa day mode. Use a blender to mash a cucumber until it has become a paste. Add a little of your carrier oil of choice (I personally prefer olive), and it's ready to use as a cleanser. You'll love how well the mixture soothes the skin while taking off your makeup. Cucumbers also have powerful antioxidants that can help reduce irritation so you'll be impressed with how well the mixture combats inflammation on acne-prone skin.

7. Baking Soda & Honey

The combination of baking soda and honey makes a paste that is not only a cleanser beauty bloggers swear by, but an exfoliator too. Add a little honey onto your wash cloth and a dash of baking soda on top to take off your makeup. No need to scrub hard — the baking soda already exfoliates the skin as you rub it in. Complete the process by rinsing your face. You'll feel refreshed and your face will likely smell like a dream!

Removing your makeup before bed doesn't always have to be a complete struggle. These makeup removal remedies are budget-friendly, not to mention simple, super hydrating, and all that other jazz. I for one will be saving a few bucks and using coconut oil for a long time to come.

Images: Abi Porter, Meal Makeover Moms, Basti Hirsch ッ, The Style PA, Chiot's Run, Max Mallett, reb/Flickr

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