How to Get Waterproof Eyeliner Off
How to Get Waterproof Eyeliner Off
You carefully applied that perfect cat-eye look hours ago. But now it’s time to remove your waterproof eyeliner before bed. Uh oh – it won’t budge! Don’t panic. This stubborn makeup has finally met its match with these pro tips.
Use an Oil-Based Makeup Remover
Oil breaks down oil-based products like waterproof eyeliner and mascara. Opt for a dual-phase eye makeup remover containing nourishing oils like:
- Mineral oil
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Jojoba oil
Shake the bottle vigorously to combine the oil and water phases. Saturate a cotton pad and press it against your lash line for 15-30 seconds. This gives the oils time to dissolve that long-lasting liner.
Gently wipe away in short strokes. Re-saturate the pad as needed until all traces of eyeliner have disappeared. Follow with your regular facial cleanser to remove any residual oils.
Try the Oil Cleansing Method
You already have everything needed for this natural makeup remover in your kitchen. Simply massage a blend of:
- 1 part castor, olive, or coconut oil
- 2 parts other plant oil like grapeseed or sweet almond
Directly onto your closed lids using small circular motions for 1-2 minutes. The oils will bind to and dissolve even the most stubborn waterproof eyeliner.
Rinse the oil blend away thoroughly with warm water. You may need to follow with a mild cleanser like Cetaphil to completely remove any residue. This double cleansing approach leaves skin feeling soft and clean.
Use Petroleum Jelly
Thick, greasy petroleum jelly is surprisingly effective at erasing waterproof eyeliner. Smear a thin layer over your closed lids. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the jelly to penetrate and break down that long-lasting formula.
Wipe away gently using a soft washcloth dampened with warm water. The combination of lubricating petroleum jelly and water friction will lift away every last bit of liner with ease. Cleanse your face afterwards to prevent future breakouts around the eyes.
Reach for Micellar Water
These gentle, soap-free cleansing waters contain tiny micelle molecules that trap and dissolve oil, dirt, and makeup like magic. Saturate a cotton round fully. Press it over your closed lids for 15-20 seconds.
Gently wipe outward using small strokes until all traces of liner have been erased. Re-saturate the cotton pad as needed and avoid pulling or tugging the delicate eye area. Stay persistent – micellar water eventually dissolves even the most waterproof formulas.
Use Cleansing Oils or Balms
Ultra-nourishing cleansing oils and balms effortlessly break down cosmetics like eyeliner and mascara while conditioning lashes too. Massage your favorite oil or balm directly onto dry skin using circular motions.
Let it sit for 30 seconds to allow the oils to penetrate and dissolve makeup. Remove by rinsing with warm water or using a soft, wet washcloth. Double cleanse to remove any remaining residue and you’re done!
Apply Coconut Oil
Nature’s oil-based eye makeup remover is sitting right in your kitchen pantry. Warm up a bit of solid coconut oil in your palms until it melts into an oil. Gently press and massage it over closed lids for 1-2 minutes.
The oily lubricant helps dissolve waterproof makeup while conditioning the delicate eye area. Wipe away fully using a damp, warm washcloth. Follow with your regular face cleanser to banish any residual oil.
Baby Shampoo Method
The gentle, tear-free formula makes baby shampoo a stellar eye makeup remover in a pinch. Simply massage a pea-sized amount directly onto dry skin around your lids and lashes.
Let it sit briefly, then gently wipe away using a warm, damp washcloth. The mild surfactants easily dissolve even stubborn waterproof liner and mascara formulas without stinging or irritation.
Stay Patient and Persistent
Removing every last trace of waterproof eyeliner requires some effort and patience. Take your time and avoid harsh rubbing which can damage the delicate eye area. Re-apply your oil-based remover or balm as needed until all liner is gone.
Hydrate and Rest Eyes Afterwards
All those oil cleansers can leave your eye area feeling a bit heavy or greasy. Rinse thoroughly with cool water when finished to refresh and awaken tired eyes. Then apply a hydrating, fragrance-free eye cream or serum before bed.
In the morning, you’ll wake up to smooth, bright, flawlessly clean lids and lashes – with zero remnants of yesterday’s eyeliner. With these pro tips in your beauty arsenal, waterproof makeup doesn’t stand a chance!
