Makeup removal isn't just an evening ritual, but the foundation of healthy, radiant skin. Improper cleansing can lead to dryness, clogged pores, and premature aging. In this article, we'll show you how to effectively remove makeup using natural products inspired by Ayurveda and Asian skincare rituals.
Why is effective makeup removal the basis of skincare?
Cleansing as a condition for healthy skin
Throughout the day, skin is exposed to environmental pollutants (smog, dust, heavy metals), sebum, sweat, and makeup. Leaving these substances on the surface of the epidermis promotes bacterial growth and the development of imperfections . As a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018) found, improper cleansing can lead to increased oxidative stress and accelerated aging.
Clogging pores and imperfections
Makeup residue, especially waterproof products, can block the sebaceous glands . This can result in blackheads , lumps , pimples , and even inflammation. This is especially important for oily and combination skin, which tends to overproduce sebum.
Weakening of the hydrolipid barrier
Lack of thorough yet gentle makeup removal disrupts the skin's natural protective barrier . The skin becomes more susceptible to irritation , dryness , and the aggressive effects of external factors such as wind and temperature changes. Clinical studies confirm this, showing that carefully selected cleansers can improve the epidermal barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Effectiveness of further care
Even the best-chosen serum or cream won't be fully effective if applied to contaminated skin . Clean skin absorbs active ingredients better . According to research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2015), applying cosmetics to uncontaminated skin increases their effectiveness by up to 30%.
Different makeup removal methods – which one to choose for healthy skin?
Makeup removal isn't just about removing makeup—it's the first and crucial step in facial skincare. If done incorrectly, cosmetic residue, sebum, and environmental pollutants will hinder skin regeneration and the absorption of active ingredients . Learn about the most popular makeup removal methods and why two-step cleansing—especially with oil—is the most effective.
Two-step facial cleansing – the best makeup removal method
What does it involve?
This method, inspired by Asian beauty rituals, consists of two stages:
Step 1: cleansing with oil (e.g. natural makeup removal oil) that dissolves oily impurities, makeup and SPF.
Step 2: Cleansing with a water-based product (e.g. gel or foam) that removes oil residue and dissolved impurities.
Advantages:
- Thoroughly but gently removes makeup (including waterproof makeup)
- Does not damage the skin's hydrolipid barrier
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin
- No rubbing of the skin required
- Supports microbiome balance
Defects:
It requires the use of two products – but the results definitely make up for it.
For whom?
For anyone who wants to take care of their skin thoroughly, but without irritation – especially recommended for dry, sensitive, mature skin and skin prone to impurities.
Micellar water – a quick solution, but not for everyone
What does it involve?
Micellar waters contain micelles—molecules that bind oil and water. After wetting a cotton pad with the solution and wiping the skin, the micelles dissolve makeup and impurities.
Advantages:
- A quick and convenient way
- No water required – perfect for traveling
- A good emergency solution
Defects:
- Requires rubbing of the skin, which may lead to irritation
- Leaves a layer of surfactants - always wash it off with water
- Does not cope well with heavier makeup and UV filters
- With prolonged use, it may dry out or disrupt the epidermal barrier.
For whom?
For those looking for a quick solution or needing a product for touch-ups during the day – but not as a daily makeup removal method.
Makeup remover milk – a gentle classic
What does it involve?
Makeup removers are emulsions that dissolve makeup and impurities. They are applied with your hands or a cotton pad, then rinsed off with water or a tissue.
Advantages:
- Gentle for skin, especially dry and mature skin
- Leaves a light protective film
Defects:
May be too heavy for oily and combination skin
I often don't remove waterproof makeup
May clog pores if not rinsed thoroughly
For whom?
For people with dry, atopic, very sensitive skin – but it is worth supporting them with a gentle gel in the second stage.
Gloves and makeup removal wipes
What does it involve?
These are reusable accessories made of microfibers that allow you to remove makeup using only water – without cosmetics.
Advantages:
- Ecological and economical
- Quick to use
- No need to use additional cosmetics
Defects:
They do not thoroughly remove UV filters and waterproof makeup.
They require frequent washing and may accumulate bacteria.
Mechanical friction can irritate the skin
For whom?
For minimalists, when traveling, for quick touch-ups – but they should not replace full-fledged makeup removal.
Makeup removal wipes – the least recommended method
What does it involve?
These are disposable wipes soaked in detergents and preservatives.
Advantages:
- Extreme comfort
- Good for emergency situations (e.g. plane flight)
Defects:
Strongly irritating to the skin - may contain alcohol, synthetic fragrances and preservatives
They leave behind remnants of makeup and impurities
They are not environmentally friendly
For whom?
For emergency use only. Not recommended for daily use.
Why choose two-step facial cleansing?
Two-step facial cleansing – preferably using a natural makeup removal oil and a mild gel – is the most effective and safe method of makeup removal.
Not only does it thoroughly cleanse the skin of makeup and SPF , but it also supports the hydrolipid barrier and prevents imperfections . This daily skincare ritual truly improves the appearance and condition of the skin.
Natural oils and makeup removers
Orientana offers natural makeup removers that combine traditional plant ingredients with modern biotechnology. Their formulas are inspired by Ayurveda and Asian facial cleansing rituals.
Recommended products:
Golden Orange Makeup Remover Oil – dissolves makeup, soothes and protects against dryness.
Facial cleansing foam - cleanses the skin of residual oil and sebum, moisturizes the skin
Tonic – restores the proper pH and prepares the skin for the next stages of care.
Step-by-step steps for effective makeup removal
Makeup removal oil
This first step helps dissolve makeup (even waterproof), sunscreen, and impurities. Massage the oil onto dry skin, then rinse with water or blot with a damp cotton pad.
Why is it worth it?
- Does not disturb the hydrolipid barrier,
- Contains natural oils and extracts from Ayurvedic plants,
- Strengthens the skin and has a soothing effect.
Cleansing foam or gel (water stage)
This is the second, crucial step in cleansing, which removes residual oil, sweat, and water-soluble impurities. Choose products with natural ingredients, free of SLS/SLES, that cleanse without drying the skin.
What should you look for in the composition?
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Mild plant-based cleansing agents (e.g. Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside),
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Plant extracts (e.g. aloe, rose, ashwagandha, cucumber),
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Moisturizing humectants (e.g. glycerin, betaine, trehalose),
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Soothing additives (e.g. panthenol, allantoin).
Why is it worth it?
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Removes remnants of makeup and oil,
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Refreshes and prepares the skin for the next stages of care,
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Does not disturb the hydrolipid barrier,
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Helps cleanse pores without causing any tightening effect.
Tonic
Finally, it's worth restoring the skin's optimal pH. Orientan Rose Tonic not only tones, but also soothes, moisturizes, and supports the regeneration of the skin's microbiome.
Why is it worth it?
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Restores the skin's pH balance,
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Contains rose water, hyaluronic acid and natural prebiotics,
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It soothes and prepares the skin for further care steps.
What to avoid when removing makeup?
Makeup removal isn't just the first step in your evening skincare routine, but the foundation for healthy skin. However, if done incorrectly, it can do more harm than good. Here's what you should absolutely avoid to avoid worsening your skin's condition:
Strong detergents (SLS, SLES and their derivatives)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are cheap and effective surfactants that produce high levels of foam. Unfortunately, their intense cleansing action leads to:
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removal of the skin's natural lipid barrier,
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dryness, irritation and even micro-damage to the epidermis,
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intensification of problems with sensitive and vascular skin.
Also avoid:
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Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate,
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TEA-Lauryl Sulfate,
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PEGs in large quantities.
Instead, choose: mild cleansers such as Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate.
Rubbing the skin with a cotton pad or towel
Mechanical friction, especially when using dry or rough cotton pads, leads to:
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microdamage to the stratum corneum of the epidermis,
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irritation and redness,
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stretching the skin – especially around the delicate eye area.
Instead of rubbing:
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gently apply the cotton pad soaked in the product to your eyelid and wait until the makeup dissolves,
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use oils that easily emulsify dirt without the need for scrubbing,
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Dry your face with a cotton or microfiber towel, applying it point by point, without rubbing.
Skipping toner or toning essence
Tonic is not just an “optional” step – it has an important function:
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restores the proper pH of the skin after cleansing,
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calms the skin after contact with water,
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moisturizes and prepares the skin to receive serum and cream.
Effects of skipping tonic:
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feeling of tightness and dryness,
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microbiome disorders,
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weakening the effect of subsequent cosmetics.
Washing your face with hot water
Water temperature too high:
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dilates and weakens blood vessels,
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promotes the formation of redness and permanent spider veins,
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dehydrates the skin and intensifies dryness.
Instead:
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use lukewarm or cool water – especially for vascular and sensitive skin.
Using makeup removal wipes
Although convenient for travel, they are not suitable for everyday use:
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they often contain alcohol, preservatives and fragrances,
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they only smear dirt and makeup on the skin's surface,
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may cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Alternative:
You can remove waterproof makeup more effectively and without irritation by using oil and a mild gel/foam.
Makeup removal with only one product (no oil or water step)
A common mistake is to use only micellar water or only gel, which results in:
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inaccurate removal of makeup, SPF and impurities,
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accumulation of cosmetic residues in pores,
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increased risk of blackheads, inflammation and dryness.
The best approach?
Two-phase cleansing: first oil (or balm), then a gentle water-based product – foam or gel.
Recommended Orientana cosmetics:
Golden Orange Makeup Remover Oil
Have questions about natural makeup removal? Drop us a line or leave a comment below!
