Why is mascara so stubborn? It seems like no matter how many times you wash your face with a cleanser and washcloth, there’s still some left behind. Meanwhile, you could be potentially damaging your lashes and drying out your skin. 

One of the main reasons makeup is so stubborn, especially mascara, is because it’s oil-based. Have you ever tried to mix water and oil? They separate. That’s what happens when you try to wash off your makeup as well. The cleanser you use actually needs to dissolve the makeup molecules or debris so that it can be washed off with water. Thus, you would need an oil-based cleanser to completely remove makeup.

Can I use oil to remove makeup?

Makeup contains silicone, and this is what helps it stick to the face. Unlike coconut or jojoba oil, silicone is not as easily removed with soap and water. However, you can use something like coconut oil because it will bind with the silicone, allowing you to wash it off more thoroughly. Then, upon adding soap and water, you can completely remove makeup with oil. But, it depends on the oil, and you’ll also want to take into consideration any skin sensitivities. 

Plus, you’ll want to follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining and potentially pore-clogging oil. 

My skin breaks out easily, or using pure oil doesn’t really appeal to me. Can I use something else to remove my makeup?

Korean cleansing oils are a great option for this. Korean cleansing oils emulsify (bubble up) into a milky texture when you add water. Then, it rinses off easily without leaving behind oily residue. Additionally, Korean cleansing oils are great because many emulsify meaning they become sudsy upon adding water. So, a second cleanser may not always be necessary. 

Using Korean cleansing oils alone are not only great for removing makeup, but they are great for dry skin. But, as for using it in a Korean skincare routine, it should be followed up with a water-based cleanser, meaning it should be a part of a double-cleansing routine.

How do I use a Korean cleansing oil?

To use a Korean cleansing oil, apply a small amount to dry skin, gently massage it in circular motions to dissolve makeup and impurities. Then, add a little water to emulsify the oil into a milky texture. Next, it can be rinsed off with lukewarm water. As mentioned before, you can follow it up with a water-based cleanser for a complete "double cleanse." You can also use these to remove blackheads.

Why Korean pore cleansing oils?

Korean pore cleansing oils focus on sourcing high-quality botanical ingredients that maintain the skin barrier and prevent skin concerns rather than temporarily treating a concern that already exists.  

What are the best Korean cleansing oils?

These are some of Cassandra’s favorites.

Vegreen Rice Cleansing Oil: $24

Highlights:

-The oil turns milky upon contact with water to ensure thorough cleansing without stripping essential moisture. This oil-based cleanser effectively dissolves impurities so you can have a clean and refreshed complexion.

-This Korean cleanser is enriched with a blend of 7 oils including ricebrand, grapeseed, jojoba, sunflower, and sweet almond oil. These botanical ingredients deeply moisturize and provide antioxidants within a cleansing formula. 

 

 

Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil: $27