Make-up removers

Leaving make-up on the face overnight wreaks havoc on the skin. It makes the pores appear more pronounced. The skin needs to breath and, therefore, make-up should be removed completely to avoid blackheads. Proper usage of make-up remover is essential for best results. Look for a remover that is suitable for your skin.

Eyes: Start with the eyes because it is the most sensitive. You can use almond oil or olive oil. They are the best suited to remove hard traces of make-up and are good conditioners. Baby oil is also a mineral oil, good moisturiser and also good for removing make-up around the eyes.

Mascara: Should be removed using cotton buds. Close the eyes, rub the cotton bud gently over the eyelashes to remove the eyeliner and shadow pigments. Do not stretch the skin while at it.

Lips: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly on your lips and keep it on for a few minutes then wipe off with tissue paper. Natural rose water is also effective. Soak cotton balls in olive oil or coconut oil. This is a good option for people who might be allergic to certain ingredients.

Sensitive skin: This tends to get irritated easily. Olive oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil are some natural make-up removers good for these skin type. If you are going for commercially available products, make sure it is free from alcohol and perfuming agents. Alcohol dries the skin and makes it itchy. Herbal cleaners, which are enriched with natural substances, are a good option.

Oily skin: Oil-based make-up removers are effective but are too greasy and may clog your pores leading to more acne. If you must use, always wash off these products from your face. Alcohol based make-up remover are best for oily skin.

Dry skin: Cleansing milk is one of the most effective. Most cleansing milks are made of a combination of water, oils like grape seed or castor oil. Dry skin also benefits from using natural removers like olive oil.

Make-up removers are also available in pads and towelettes, two for the price of one. These pads are saturated with cleanser. They are also convenient to use while travelling.

Make-up removers should be used carefully at the corners of the nose, chin, mouth, cheekbones and eyes to effectively dissolve all dirt.

Splash plenty of water on your face for a rejuvenating and refreshing feel.

If your products run out, mix some rose water, lemon juice and a few drops of baby oil. This is very effective for all skin types.

Toners can be used optionally to reduce pores and eliminate oil. Apply a moisturiser after removing your make-up.

Keep your routine simple so that you are likely to follow it. Do not use any make-up remover without first testing it on a small area of the skin.