Though makeup does fade during the course of the day, you still need to remove it thoroughly at night, especially if the makeup is oil based. If you don't completely remove your makeup daily, it can attract dirt, clog pores, and cause breakouts. Women who use water based products may be able to remove all of the makeup with the same cleanser used on the face in the morning. However, oil based makeup used on dry or combination skin will need. to be removed with a makeup removal product. One brand to try is Dermablend Remover/Nettoyant.

Makeup removers are formulated for skin type. Once you've selected one for your skin, apply the product according to instructions. You may need to leave it on your skin for several minutes to give it time to dissolve the cosmetics. Use tissue or cotton balls to gently wipe away the residue. Cotton swabs may be more useful for the sensitive eye area (but avoid cotton if you wear contact lenses). Take care not to tug or pull at your skin. If makeup does not come off, you may need to apply additional remover or switch to a more effective product. Women with sensitive skin should avoid products containing irritants such as alcohol and fragrance.

To make makeup removal easier and less time consuming, you may want to avoid using "waterproof" products like mascara. "Water resistant" mascara does not last as long and may smudge more readily, but it is more easily removed than a waterproof product. (Also, how often do you go swimming with mascara on?) Pencil and powder eyeliner or eyebrow makeup will be easier to remove than liquid products. (If you wear contact lenses, look for eye makeup labeled "for contact-lens wearers" to avoid irritation.) Your choice of makeup formulas depends, of course, on personal preference, but consider the time you're willing to devote to makeup removal before you buy.

Makeup and Allergies

Occasionally, makeup ingredients can trigger allergic reactions. These reactions most commonly occur on the upper and lower eyelids from eye makeup such as eyeliner and mascara because of the preservatives these products contain. Signs you may have a makeup allergy may also include a rash, swelling, or excessive wrinkling of the skin around the eyes. Also, you may develop a sudden breakout on the skin or a rash around the lips (owing to dye in some lipsticks). If you notice a reaction, stop using the product immediately. Take an antihistamine to relieve symptoms if the reaction persists. If reactions continue no matter what product you use, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or an allergist. The physician can administer an allergy patch test to determine what specific ingredient your skin may be reacting to. One way to avoid potential triggers of allergic reaction is to patch test the product on your skin before use. If you are allergic to your mascara, you might try applying a small amount of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to lashes for a fuller, thicker appearance.