Healthy skin needs clean skin. Since this rule is considered a basic and widely agreed-upon principle, you need to apply it correctly by knowing what suits you best: water-based or oil-based makeup remover?
The importance of removing makeup
Healthy skin needs continuous cleansing to allow the pores to breathe, absorb the beneficial ingredients in skincare products, and renew itself, especially at night. The buildup of dirt, pollutants, and cosmetics can clog pores, cause breakouts, and make the skin look dull.
Removing makeup is indirectly linked to collagen productivity in the skin. It supports the skin’s natural repair cycle by helping cells breathe and renew, which can improve collagen production. Cleansing is not only limited to the skin; it also helps protect sensitive areas such as the eyes from inflammation and eyelash loss. [1]
The difference between oil-based and water-based makeup remover
The difference between oil-based and water-based makeup remover is very simple and clear. Oil-based makeup remover relies mainly on oils in its formula, which are effective at removing oil-soluble dirt and impurities such as sunscreen, makeup—especially waterproof makeup—and excess sebum. Water-based makeup remover, on the other hand, contains water and lighter ingredients that are more suitable for simple impurities and sweat. [2]
What skin type is suitable for oil-based makeup remover?
All skin types can use oil-based makeup remover, provided the right formula is chosen. This means selecting non-comedogenic oils, which are oils that do not clog the pores, and ensuring the makeup is removed effectively and correctly to prevent the buildup of any residue or impurities. [3]
Some people think that oil-based makeup remover is not suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. However, what they may not know is that choosing an oil-based makeup remover with effective yet lightweight cleansing oils, such as almond oil and argan oil, is what matters. These oils can support skin health even if the skin is oily.
However, if an oil-based makeup remover contains heavy oils on the skin, such as coconut oil, it is not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin. It may be more suitable for dry skin only.
What skin type is suitable for water-based makeup remover?
L’Oréal Paris experts indicate that water-based makeup remover is usually used for oily, acne-prone, combination, and normal skin. However, it is not recommended for dry skin, which needs more hydration and may benefit more from an oil-based formula. [4]
What are the disadvantages of oil-based and water-based makeup removers?
When discussing how to choose a makeup remover, you should first learn about the main disadvantages of each type so you can choose what suits you best. Therefore, we at Dermazone have identified the most common disadvantages based on user opinions and skincare experts as follows.
Disadvantages of oil-based makeup remover
Some types of oil-based makeup removers contain silicone and glycerin, which may clog pores and cause acne. Some users also point out that not rinsing the face well with warm water may leave makeup remover residue, which can build up and clog pores. In addition, some oil-based removers leave an unpleasant sticky or greasy feeling on the skin after use.
Disadvantages of water-based makeup remover
Some types of water-based makeup removers contain alcohol, which can increase dryness in dry skin and cause irritation in sensitive skin. Therefore, it is recommended to choose alcohol-free products to protect the skin. Some people also find that water-based makeup remover cannot fully remove makeup such as lipstick and mascara, which may lead to using a larger amount of product and increasing both cost and makeup removal time.
Does the way makeup is removed affect skin health?
Yes. Dermatologists indicate that using makeup removers incorrectly can affect skin health, whether through harsh rubbing, leaving makeup remover residue, or using products rich in alcohol. These practices may disrupt the skin’s pH balance and natural oils, leading to dryness, damage to the skin barrier, irritation, and premature aging. [5]
Coxir Ultra Hyaluronic Cleansing Oil
The Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Oil is characterized by the fact that, despite its oily texture, it is rich in some of the best lightweight oils that help purify the skin from impurities and moisturize it without weighing it down or clogging pores. It is suitable for all skin types.
Coxir Cleansing Oil does not only remove impurities and makeup residue; it also helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to soothing redness and irritation.
