Learn how to make a super-simple, natural homemade makeup remover using just a few pantry ingredients. This gentle makeup remover not only dissolves makeup effectively but also leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated.
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I keep my skincare routine simple, natural, and budget-friendly. This homemade makeup remover hits all three marks: it’s easy to make, uses natural ingredients, and costs far less than commercial products.
Since switching to this DIY remover I noticed my skin became softer and more balanced. If you’re new to natural skincare and unsure where to begin, this recipe is one of the easiest and most effective changes you can make.
Many of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. I started making my own products years ago to save money, and over time I’ve kept and refined the ones that actually work.
Why It Is Important To Use Natural Products
Skin is the body’s largest organ and absorbs a significant portion of what we apply to it. Choosing cleaner skincare and makeup reduces exposure to unnecessary chemicals. Some regions regulate many more ingredients than others, so opting for simple, recognizable ingredients can lower the risk of exposing your body to potentially harmful additives.
Many conventional products contain ingredients that are linked to hormonal disruption and other health concerns. Switching to natural, minimal-ingredient options can be a small but meaningful step toward healthier skin and overall wellness.
Homemade Makeup Remover Recipe + Video
This homemade remover is essentially oil—one ingredient that does the job beautifully. I prefer avocado oil for its nourishing properties, but many oils work well depending on your skin type and preference.
Best Oils To Use For Natural Makeup Remover
- Avocado oil – Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it absorbs well and deeply hydrates skin.
- Olive oil – Readily available and very moisturizing; hazelnut oil is another good option for dry skin.
- Jojoba oil – Mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin; it absorbs without leaving a greasy feeling.
- Sweet almond oil – A light, gentle oil that contains vitamin E and works well on most skin types.
- Coconut oil – Effective for removing makeup and commonly found in kitchens; choose liquid fractionated coconut oil if you prefer a non-solid texture.
If you like, add a few drops of skin-friendly essential oils for fragrance and extra benefits. Geranium and frankincense can support mature skin, tea tree can help acne-prone skin, and lavender or chamomile add a calming scent that’s nice for an evening routine.
How To Use This Homemade Makeup Remover
- Wet your face with warm water.
- Put a small amount of oil in your palms and massage it across your face, paying extra attention to areas with heavy makeup like the eyes.
- Rinse with water and gently wipe away oil and makeup with a soft washcloth or towel.
In the shower: wet your face, massage about a quarter-size or slightly less amount of oil into skin, rinse, and pat or wipe away with a washcloth or towel. Note: makeup may transfer to towels, so use darker towels you don’t mind staining.
Many people worry oil will cause breakouts. In my experience, oil cleanses impurities without stripping the skin’s natural barrier the way many soaps do. If you have acne-prone skin, expect a short transition period as your skin adjusts—usually about a week—before it calms and improves.
Need More Natural Skincare Ideas? Check these out!
Try pairing this oil cleanser with other simple DIY products such as homemade face lotion, a nourishing night cream, or a natural repairing serum to build a minimal, effective routine.
- Homemade face lotion
- Miracle night cream
- Natural repairing serum
Have you tried an oil-based makeup remover before? It’s an inexpensive, effective alternative to many store-bought cleansing oils—often using ingredients you already have at home.
This post was updated March 2019