The Clean Slate: How I Remove Makeup Without Stripping My Skin

Let’s talk about makeup removal. For many of my clients, it’s the most rushed step in their routine. They’ll wipe their face with a makeup remover towelette and call it a night—or worse, sleep with it on. And while it might seem harmless, leftover makeup can wreak havoc on your skin over time.

Common Issues Caused by Poor Makeup Removal:

• Clogged pores and breakouts

• Irritated skin and inflammation

• Accelerated aging from environmental buildup

• A compromised skin barrier

The solution isn’t just removing makeup—it’s doing it gently and completely. That’s where the Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser comes in.

Why I Recommend Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser for Makeup Removal

I’ve tested dozens of cleansers in my clinic, especially on clients with sensitive or acne-prone skin. The goal is always to remove makeup, sunscreen, and buildup without over-cleansing—and this is one of the only formulas that consistently checks all the boxes.

1. Dual-Purpose Surfactants for Gentle Yet Thorough Cleansing

This cleanser uses coconut-based surfactants like Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, and Lauryl Glucoside, which work together to lift away oil, dirt, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

• Sulfate-free

• Doesn’t sting or leave a film

• Safe for eye makeup removal (no burning!)

2. Soothing Botanicals That Calm While You Clean

Every time you wash your face, you’re not just cleansing—you’re treating your skin. This cleanser includes green tea, licorice root, witch hazel, and mushroom extract, which are rich in antioxidants and help:

• Reduce inflammation from makeup wear and pollutants

• Soothe redness or irritation

• Provide light astringent benefits without tightness

3. Hydrating + Barrier-Loving Ingredients

What I love most: it never leaves the skin feeling tight. It includes:

• Glycerin and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) to hydrate

• Xanthan gum and butylene glycol to smooth and condition

• Radish root ferment for microbiome balance

This makes it perfect for daily use—even if you wear full-coverage foundation or long-wear SPF.

How I Recommend Using It for Makeup Removal

Here’s how I walk my clients through the double cleanse method:

Evening Routine:

1. First Cleanse: Massage 1-2 pumps of Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser onto dry skin. Focus on areas with heavy makeup.

2. Add Warm Water: Emulsify the cleanser into a light foam and continue massaging for at least 60 seconds.

3. Rinse & Repeat: Remove with lukewarm water, then repeat with a second cleanse to fully clear pores and prep skin for serums.

Pro tip: Use soft, clean hands or a microfiber cloth—no makeup wipes or harsh scrubbing.

Non-Product Tips to Improve Makeup Removal

Even the best cleanser works better when paired with smart habits:

• Always cleanse at night, even if you’re not wearing makeup

• Wash makeup brushes weekly to avoid transferring bacteria

• Don’t rush the process—give your skin the full 60-second massage

• Layer your skincare immediately after to lock in hydration

What My Clients Say

I’ve seen this cleanser transform routines. Clients who thought their skin was "sensitive" realize they were just over-cleansing. Others who battled breakouts saw improvements in texture and clarity within weeks just by switching to a gentle, complete cleanse.

Because the Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser doesn’t contain harsh acids or actives, it also plays well with any treatment serums or actives you may be using at night.

Still Struggling to Find the Right Cleanser?

Your makeup removal routine should never be the thing that holds your skin back. If you’re dealing with congestion, irritation, or stubborn breakouts and not sure where to start—this is it.

Book a virtual or in-person consultation at my NYC clinic, and I’ll help you build a home care routine that supports your skin’s real needs.

Let’s reset your routine and get your skin back to balanced.