Removing makeup is one of the most important parts of any skincare routine.

Leaving makeup behind can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, dull-looking skin, and irritation. I learned this the hard way after relying only on wipes or just a cleansing oil, which turned out to be not enough for my skin. Everyone’s skin is different, and too much pressure or over-cleansing can also cause irritation. That’s why I prefer a gentle, slow approach!

1. Wipe with a makeup remover

This first step helps lift off most of the makeup sitting on the surface of the skin. I use makeup remover wipes gently and avoid rubbing too hard, since that can irritate the skin. The goal here isn’t perfection—it’s simply to remove the top layer of makeup and prep the skin for deeper cleansing.

2. Makeup oil remover

After wiping, I go in with a makeup oil remover to target anything that’s still left behind. This step works especially well for stubborn products like foundation, sunscreen, or eye makeup. Because most of the makeup is already gone, the oil can focus on breaking down what remains without needing too much friction.

3. Cleanser

The final step is cleansing. A face cleanser helps wash away any leftover residue, dirt, and oil that the wipes and remover couldn’t fully eliminate. This step leaves my skin feeling clean, fresh, and ready for the rest of my skincare routine.

Taking a few extra minutes to remove makeup properly can make a big difference in your skin’s health. A gentle, step-by-step process helps keep pores clean while minimizing irritation. For me, these three steps create the perfect balance between effective cleansing and skin comfort.