Store-bought makeup removers can be expensive and full of ingredients that are hard to pronounce. Plus, they often irritate sensitive skin or leave an oily residue behind.

Many people want a natural solution that works just as well without breaking the bank.

This blog promises simple recipes using ingredients already sitting in the kitchen pantry.

These homemade options are gentle, effective, and budget-friendly.

Pros of Making a Homemade Makeup Remover

Making makeup remover at home offers several practical advantages. People save money, control what touches their skin, and reduce waste.

The following are key benefits of switching to homemade options.

1. Cost Savings

Homemade makeup removers cost significantly less than store-bought versions. A bottle of commercial remover can run $10 to $30 and last just weeks.

Meanwhile, ingredients like coconut oil or olive oil cost a few dollars and make multiple batches that last months.

2. Natural Ingredients

People know exactly what goes into their homemade remover. There are no mysterious chemicals, artificial fragrances, or preservatives.

These natural options work effectively without harsh additives that might irritate sensitive skin or cause breakouts over time.

3. Customizable for Skin Type

Homemade recipes can be adjusted to match specific skin needs.

Oily skin benefits from lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed. Dry skin does better with richer options like coconut or avocado oil.

People can experiment and find what works best for their unique complexion and concerns.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Making makeup remover at home reduces plastic waste from empty bottles.

Most ingredients come in recyclable glass containers or minimal packaging. Plus, people can reuse the same storage bottles repeatedly.

This approach cuts down on single-use plastics that end up in landfills and oceans.

5. Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Natural oils and ingredients tend to be milder than commercial formulas.

Many store brands contain alcohol, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances that strip skin and cause redness. Homemade versions clean effectively without the harsh ingredients.

They remove makeup while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier and pH balance.

6. Works as Well as Store Brands

Homemade makeup removers effectively break down even waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation.

Oil-based formulas dissolve makeup naturally without excessive rubbing or tugging.

Many people find that homemade versions work better than expensive commercial products. The results are just as good, if not better, at a fraction of the cost.

DIY Homemade Makeup Remover

Creating makeup remover at home is simple. Each method uses natural ingredients that are gentle yet effective. These recipes work for different skin types and preferences.

1. Witch Hazel and Jojoba Oil

This combination balances oil control with effective cleansing. Witch hazel acts as a natural astringent while jojoba oil dissolves makeup.

Together, they create a powerful yet gentle remover.

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

Collect one-fourth cup of witch hazel and two tablespoons of jojoba oil. Use a clean glass bottle with a tight lid for storage.

Make sure the bottle is completely dry before adding ingredients. Glass containers work better than plastic for storing oil-based products over time.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Pour the witch hazel into the glass bottle first. Add the jojoba oil on top.

Seal the bottle tightly and shake vigorously for about thirty seconds. The mixture should look slightly cloudy but well combined.

Shake before each use since the ingredients may separate naturally over time.

Step 3: Apply to Face

Shake the bottle well before using. Dampen a cotton pad with the mixture and gently wipe across the face.

Focus on areas with heavy makeup, such as the eyes and lips.

The oil dissolves makeup while witch hazel tones the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.

2. Honey & Rosewater Solution

This gentle formula works well for sensitive or dry skin types. Honey provides natural antibacterial properties while rosewater soothes and hydrates.

This homemade makeup remover combination removes makeup without stripping natural oils.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Measure out one-fourth cup of pure rosewater and one tablespoon of raw honey.

Choose organic honey if possible for better quality. Grab a small mixing bowl and a clean storage container.

Having everything ready makes the mixing process quick and easy. Room temperature ingredients blend together more smoothly.

Step 2: Combine and Blend

Pour the rosewater into the mixing bowl first. Add the honey and stir slowly with a spoon until fully dissolved.

This may take a minute or two since honey is thick.

Keep stirring until the mixture looks uniform with no honey clumps. Transfer to a clean bottle for storage.

Step 3: Use on Skin

Apply a small amount to a cotton pad or directly to fingertips.

Gently massage onto the face in circular motions, paying attention to makeup-heavy areas. The honey helps lift makeup while rosewater refreshes the skin.

Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow up with a regular facial cleanser if needed.

3. Coconut Oil & Aloe Vera Blend

This recipe combines moisturizing coconut oil with soothing aloe vera gel. It’s perfect for removing stubborn waterproof makeup.

The blend leaves skin soft and hydrated after cleansing.

Step 1: Collect Materials

Get two tablespoons of coconut oil and one tablespoon of pure aloe vera gel.

If the coconut oil is solid, warm it slightly until liquid. Use a clean jar or bottle for storage.

Make sure all containers and utensils are completely clean and dry. This prevents bacterial growth in the mixture.

Step 2: Mix

Pour the liquid coconut oil into a bowl. Add the aloe vera gel and whisk together until smooth.

The mixture should look creamy and well-blended without lumps.

If it separates, keep whisking for another minute. Transfer the blend into a storage container and seal tightly for freshness.

Step 3: Remove Makeup

Scoop a small amount onto fingertips or a cotton pad. Massage gently over the face using circular motions.

The coconut oil breaks down makeup while aloe soothes the skin. Pay extra attention to waterproof mascara and eyeliner.

Wipe away with a damp cloth and rinse with lukewarm water afterward.

4. Rose Water and Jojoba Oil

This fragrant combination offers gentle cleansing with a lovely scent. Rose water refreshes while jojoba oil mimics skin’s natural sebum.

The homemade makeup remover formula suits most skin types and removes makeup effectively.

Step 1: Collect Supplies

Measure three tablespoons of rose water and one tablespoon of jojoba oil.

Find a clean glass bottle with a secure cap for mixing and storage. Have a small funnel handy to avoid spills.

Keep a cotton pad ready for testing the mixture. Ensure all supplies are clean before starting.

Step 2: Create the Mixture

Pour rose water into the bottle using a funnel if needed. Add jojoba oil slowly on top.

Close the bottle tightly and shake well for thirty seconds. The liquids will mix but may separate when sitting. This is normal for oil and water combinations.

Always shake before each use.

Step 3: Apply and Cleanse

Shake the bottle thoroughly before each application. Soak a cotton pad with the mixture and sweep across the face gently.

Start with the eyes, then move to the lips and the full face. The oil lifts makeup while rose water tones.

Finish by rinsing face with water and patting skin dry completely.

Carrier Oils as Natural Makeup Remover

Carrier oils work exceptionally well for removing makeup naturally. These oils break down even stubborn waterproof products without harsh chemicals.

Each oil offers unique benefits that suit different skin types and needs.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy film behind.

It contains vitamins E and A, which nourish skin while removing makeup effectively. This oil works particularly well for sensitive skin types because it rarely causes irritation or allergic reactions.

The gentle formula dissolves mascara, foundation, and lipstick easily without excessive rubbing or tugging on delicate facial skin.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a kitchen staple that doubles as an excellent makeup remover for most skin types.

It’s rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that moisturize while cleansing. Extra virgin olive oil works best because it’s less processed and retains more beneficial properties.

The thick consistency breaks down heavy makeup, including waterproof formulas, with minimal effort.

People with very oily skin might find it too heavy for daily use.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the most popular natural makeup removers because it’s affordable and widely available.

It melts instantly on contact with skin and dissolves makeup quickly and efficiently. The oil has natural antibacterial properties that help prevent breakouts while cleansing.

Virgin or unrefined coconut oil works better than refined versions.

Note: People with acne-prone skin should use it cautiously because it can clog pores for some individuals.

Shea Butter

Shea butter provides intense moisture while removing makeup, making it perfect for dry and mature skin types.

It has a thick, creamy texture that melts when warmed between the fingers. The butter contains vitamins A and E, which help repair and protect skin.

It removes makeup thoroughly while leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated.

People need to warm it slightly before application because it’s solid at room temperature.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.

It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a heavy residue after use. The oil is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t block pores or cause breakouts.

It removes makeup effectively while balancing the skin’s natural oil production.

Read the ingredients before buying any recommended products. To check if they are comedogenic or not by just Google “comedogenic products checker.”

How to Store Natural Makeup Remover?

Proper storage keeps DIY makeup remover fresh and effective for longer periods.

Glass containers work best because they don’t absorb odors or leach chemicals into the product. Dark amber or cobalt blue bottles protect the mixture from light damage, which can break down natural oils over time.

Always use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent contamination and evaporation.

Store the remover in a cool, dark place like a bathroom cabinet or drawer away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Most homemade makeup removers last two to four weeks when stored correctly.

Tip: Label each bottle with the date it was made to track freshness and know when to make a new batch.

DIY Make-Up Remover Wipes

Making reusable makeup remover wipes at home saves money and reduces waste from disposable products.

These wipes are soft and can be used as a DIY eye makeup remover.

1. Bring all the Materials Together

Collect soft cotton cloths, flannel squares, or old t-shirt fabric cut into small squares measuring about four by four inches.

Find a clean, airtight container with a lid that can hold all the wipes.

Glass jars or plastic containers with secure tops work well. Make sure everything is washed and completely dry before starting.

2. Prepare the Solution

Mix half a cup of distilled water with two tablespoons of coconut oil and one tablespoon of witch hazel in a bowl.

Stir the ingredients together thoroughly until they blend well. Add a few drops of tea tree oil for extra cleansing properties if desired.

The solution should look slightly milky when properly mixed together.

3. Soak the Wipes

Fold each cloth square neatly and stack them inside the container.

Pour the remaining prepared solution over the folded wipes slowly and evenly. Make sure all wipes absorb the liquid equally. Press down gently to help them soak up the mixture.

The wipes should be damp but not dripping wet when finished.

4. Store Properly

Close the container tightly to keep the wipes moist and prevent them from drying out.

Store the container in a cool place away from direct sunlight. The wipes stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Shake the container occasionally to redistribute the solution. Make a new batch when the wipes start to smell off.

5. Use and Clean

Pull out one wipe at a time and gently wipe makeup off the face using circular motions.

The cloth removes makeup effectively without harsh rubbing. After use, toss the dirty wipe into a laundry bag. Wash the used wipes in hot water with mild detergent.

Let them air dry completely before making a new batch.

Are these Removers Suitable for All Skin Types?

Homemade makeup removers can work for all skin types when the right ingredients are chosen carefully.

Oily skin benefits from lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed that won’t clog pores. Dry skin needs richer options such as coconut oil or shea butter for extra moisture.

Sensitive skin does well with gentle ingredients like sweet almond oil and chamomile. Combination skin can use witch hazel mixed with light oils to balance different zones.

Precaution: Always patch test new ingredients on a small area, like on the elbow or behind the neck, first to check for reactions

Which Homemade Makeup Remover is People’s Favourite?

According to a Reddit thread, the best homemade makeup remover, which is simple and effective, is Johnson’s Baby Oil.

Users love how it gently breaks down makeup, even stubborn waterproof formulas, by massaging it in for a minute, especially around the eyes. It’s affordable, widely available, and leaves your skin soft without harsh chemicals.

Besides baby oil, ingredients like jojoba oil, aloe vera, witch hazel, and rose water also make great DIY gentle removers.

A mix of oils and soothing liquids helps remove makeup while nourishing your skin. These natural removers are easy to make at home and are kind to sensitive skin, too.

Wrapping It Up

So, the recipes shared here use simple, natural ingredients that work just as well as expensive store brands. Each method can be adjusted to fit individual skin needs and preferences.

Plus, the cost savings add up quickly over time.

Starting with just one recipe is enough to see the difference. Try the witch hazel and jojoba oil combination first if unsure where to begin. The ingredients are easy to find, and the process takes less than five minutes.

Give these recipes a try tonight and see how clean, refreshed skin can feel without harsh chemicals.