Mar
“Your skin is your best outfit—take good care of it.” That quote might sound a little Instagram-inspo, but there’s truth buried in it. We’re constantly layering products on our faces: primers, foundations, concealers, powders, creams, gels, setting sprays. But at the end of the day, the most important step isn’t what you put on—it’s how you take it off.
Here’s where the plot thickens: many commercial makeup removers, even those branded as “gentle” or “natural,” contain preservatives, surfactants, and synthetic fragrances that can irritate skin or strip its moisture barrier. For anyone with sensitive skin, acne, or a passion for clean beauty, this is a real problem. Luckily, the solution might be sitting in your kitchen cabinet.
Natural makeup removers aren’t just a Pinterest trend. They’re a simple, effective, skin-loving alternative to store-bought options—and you can make them yourself with minimal effort and cost.
Let’s talk about how to do it right.
Why Go Natural?
The average woman applies around 168 chemicals to her body every day, according to research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Makeup remover is a prime contributor, especially when used daily.
Many over-the-counter removers use alcohol-based solvents and synthetic emulsifiers that can dry out your skin. They might remove makeup fast, but they often take your natural oils with them. This can leave your skin red, flaky, tight, or even reactive. If your face feels squeaky-clean after cleansing, that’s not a win—it’s a warning sign.
Going natural isn’t about being anti-science. It’s about choosing ingredients that work with your skin, not against it. And in most cases, natural oils, plant waters, and botanical extracts can remove makeup just as effectively as their synthetic counterparts—without the irritation.
What to Look for in a Natural Makeup Remover
Not all natural ingredients are created equal. Some oils clog pores. Some botanicals cause allergic reactions. And some ingredients just don’t do the job well enough to bother with. So before whipping up your DIY blend, you need to understand what makes a natural makeup remover work.
First, it needs to dissolve both oil-based and water-based products. This includes everything from waterproof mascara and cream blush to mineral sunscreen and long-wear foundation.
Second, it should be gentle enough for the eye area, since that skin is thinner and more delicate.
Third, it must balance skin—not disrupt it. That means ingredients should support hydration, help maintain the skin’s acid mantle and avoid stripping sebum or altering your microbiome.
Your remover should ideally have:
- A base oil to dissolve makeup
- A humectant to attract water
- A botanical or hydrosol to tone and refresh
- An optional emulsifier to allow water and oil to mix
Let’s break it down.
Choosing Your Base Oils
Oil is the hero in natural makeup removal. It binds with the oils and waxes in makeup and lifts them away from the skin without friction.
Here are some top choices for different skin types:
Jojoba Oil
Closest to human sebum in composition. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and works for all skin types.
Sweet Almond Oil
Great for dry or sensitive skin. Rich in vitamins E and A and has mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Grapeseed Oil
Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. It’s high in linoleic acid and antioxidants, making it balancing without being greasy.
Coconut Oil
Effective at breaking down waterproof makeup, but comedogenic for some. Best used sparingly or on dry skin types.
Olive Oil
A classic, though heavier in texture. Works well for stubborn makeup but may not suit acne-prone skin.
Sunflower Oil
Another good all-rounder, especially for sensitive skin. It’s light, nourishing, and affordable.
Add a Humectant
To ensure your makeup remover doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily or heavy, add a touch of hydration. This helps the remover glide over skin and encourages moisture retention.
Aloe Vera Gel is the go-to here. It’s calming, water-based, and gentle enough for even the eye area. Bonus: it soothes irritation and redness.
Vegetable Glycerin is another excellent option. It’s colorless, odorless, and pulls water into the skin. Use sparingly—too much can make the formula sticky.
Hydrosols and Botanicals
Adding a water-based plant ingredient helps balance the skin’s pH and can elevate the formula from basic to beautiful.
Rose Water adds a light floral scent and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Lavender Hydrosol calms stressed-out skin and pairs beautifully with jojoba or grapeseed oil.
Chamomile Tea (cooled and strained) works well for reducing redness and is eye safe.
Green Tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-aging polyphenols, especially great for mature or dull skin.
Natural Emulsifiers
Most oils don’t rinse clean with water alone. If you want your remover to be rinseable—leaving no greasy residue—add a natural emulsifier.
Castile Soap (like Dr. Bronner’s) can work in small amounts to make an oil cleanser foamy. Be cautious around the eyes.
Polysorbate 80 or OliveM 300 are more cosmetic-grade emulsifiers derived from natural sources. They’re optional, but great if you want a professional-feeling DIY.
DIY Recipes for Natural Makeup Removers
Let’s get into the fun part: making your own.
Simple 2-Ingredient Remover
For the minimalist.
- 2 tbsp jojoba oil
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
Shake before use. Apply with clean hands or a cotton pad, massage gently, and wipe clean.
Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin
- 2 tbsp sweet almond oil
- 2 tbsp rose water
- 1 tsp vegetable glycerin
Combine and shake well before each use. Use a reusable pad to swipe away mascara and liner.
Deep Clean Oil Cleanser (Double Cleansing Compatible)
- 3 tbsp grapeseed oil
- 1 tbsp castor oil (a deep cleanser)
- 1 tsp olive-derived emulsifier (optional)
Massage onto dry skin, then rinse with warm water or follow up with a gentle second cleanser.
Soothing Herbal Remover for Redness-Prone Skin
- 2 tbsp chamomile tea (cooled)
- 2 tbsp jojoba oil
- 1 tsp aloe vera
- 2 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
This formula is ideal for evening use, especially after wearing SPF and full-face makeup.
Tips for Using Your DIY Remover
Always patch-test a new blend on your wrist or jawline to rule out irritation. Use a cotton round or, better yet, a reusable bamboo pad to apply and wipe. Shake oil-water blends before each use to re-combine layers. Store your remover in a clean glass bottle or pump and use within 1–2 weeks unless using preservatives. Keep refrigerated if using hydrosols or tea.
Want to extend shelf life? Add a natural preservative like Leucidal Liquid SF or use only oil-based ingredients. Keep your tools (hands, containers, utensils) clean. Even natural products can harbor bacteria without proper hygiene.
Why Oil Works (and Why You Shouldn’t Fear It)
If you’ve been taught that oil causes breakouts, it might feel counterintuitive to smear it all over your face. But when applied topically, the right oils can actually balance excess sebum, support the skin barrier, and prevent over-drying.
Many acne-prone people have skin that’s actually dehydrated, not oily. When the skin is stripped, it compensates by producing even more oil. Using natural oils to cleanse can break that cycle and restore harmony.
Plus, oil dissolves oil. So instead of scrubbing off foundation with harsh surfactants, you’re gently coaxing it away.
FAQs
Is coconut oil safe for all skin types?
Not really. Coconut oil is comedogenic for many people, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. It’s great for dry patches or waterproof eye makeup but test it first.
Can I store my remover at room temperature?
If it’s oil-only, yes. If it contains water, aloe, or tea, it should be refrigerated or used within a week. Preservatives can help extend the shelf life.
Will oil-based removers work on waterproof mascara?
Absolutely. Oils like castor, coconut, and jojoba are especially effective at breaking down waxy or long-wear formulas.
How often should I use a natural remover?
Daily! It’s safe and nourishing enough to be your everyday go-to, especially if you’re wearing makeup, sunscreen, or both.
Do I still need to cleanse after using a natural makeup remover?
Yes—especially if you’re using a pure oil blend. That’s where double cleansing comes in. Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
Natural Doesn’t Mean Ineffective
Making your own makeup remover is one of the easiest ways to simplify your skincare routine without sacrificing results. It’s empowering to know what’s going on your face—and even better when that stuff smells amazing, works beautifully, and costs pennies compared to name brands.
You don’t need a chemistry degree, a pantry full of exotic oils, or even a lot of time. Just a few thoughtful ingredients, a clean bottle, and five minutes can get you closer to a skincare routine that feels as good as it looks.
