DIY Nourishing Makeup Remover: A Simple Oil Cleanser
At the end of the day, sometimes you just want to wash your face, get into your pajamas, and call it a night. The last thing you need is to be rubbing at stubborn mascara with a makeup wipe that leaves your skin feeling irritated.
One of the things I love about making products at home is being able to keep the ingredient list simple. This DIY oil-based makeup remover uses just four ingredients and takes a few minutes to make.
It’s an easy addition to your evening routine, especially if you prefer a simple, oil-based way to loosen makeup and sunscreen before cleansing your face.
DIY Nourishing Makeup Remover Recipe
This recipe makes a 100-gram batch.
Ingredients
-
30 g castor oil — helps loosen makeup and gives this blend its cleansing properties.
-
50 g apricot kernel oil — a lightweight plant oil that helps leave skin feeling soft.
-
18 g jojoba oil — a liquid wax that helps give the formula a smooth, conditioning feel.
-
2 g vitamin E oil (tocopherol) — an antioxidant that helps slow the oxidation of oils.
You’ll also need:
-
A digital scale that measures in grams
-
A clean glass beaker or small mixing bowl
-
A clean spoon or cosmetic mixing tool
-
A clean, dry amber glass bottle with a pump or suitable dispenser
If you’re making DIY skincare regularly, a digital scale that measures in grams is one of those little tools worth having. Measuring by weight makes it much easier to repeat a formula accurately.
How to Make It
This is a simple blend—no heating or complicated equipment required.
-
Weigh your ingredients. Use your digital scale to measure each oil in grams.
-
Combine the oils. Add the castor oil, apricot kernel oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E to your clean mixing container.
-
Mix well. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
-
Bottle your remover. Transfer the finished blend into a clean, completely dry bottle.
-
Label it. Include the product name and the date you made it.
A 100 ml amber glass bottle with a pump is a practical option for storing your remover. Amber glass helps reduce light exposure, and a pump can make dispensing easier without having to pour the oil into your hands.
Keep the bottle closed and stored away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
How to Use Your Oil-Based Makeup Remover
-
Dispense a small amount into clean, dry hands.
-
Gently massage it over dry skin to loosen makeup and sunscreen.
-
Remove the oil with a soft, warm, damp washcloth.
-
Follow with your usual facial cleanser if you prefer to double cleanse.
A few soft, reusable makeup-removing cloths are handy to keep with your skincare supplies. Just wash them regularly.
A note about eye makeup: Be careful around your eyes, and avoid getting the oil directly in them. Oils can temporarily blur vision or irritate the eyes, and individual sensitivities vary. If you wear waterproof mascara or have sensitive eyes, use a remover specifically suited to your eye area.
A Few Tips for Making and Storing It
Because this formula contains oils and no water-based ingredients, you don't need an emulsifier to blend it. The oils mix directly.
A few things are worth keeping in mind:
-
Keep water out of the bottle. Use dry hands and clean, dry equipment when making and dispensing the product.
-
Choose your packaging thoughtfully. Amber glass is a good option for limiting light exposure. A glass pump bottle can also be convenient for everyday use.
-
Pay attention to freshness. Vitamin E helps protect oils from oxidation, but it is not a broad-spectrum preservative. The usable life of the finished blend depends on the freshness and stability of the oils, handling, and storage. Don't assume it will automatically last six months; follow the oil suppliers' shelf-life guidance and discard it if its smell, appearance, or texture changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute other oils?
You can experiment with other cosmetic-grade plant oils, but substitutions can change the feel and performance of the formula. Sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil are possible alternatives to apricot kernel oil. Make changes carefully, especially if you have known sensitivities.
Is this suitable for acne-prone or sensitive skin?
It depends on your skin. Even plant oils can cause irritation or breakouts for some people, so I wouldn't promise that this formula is suitable for every skin type. Patch test a small area first, and discontinue use if you notice irritation.
Do I need to double cleanse?
Not necessarily. Some people prefer to follow an oil cleanser with a gentle facial cleanser to remove any remaining oil, makeup, or sunscreen. Choose a routine that leaves your skin comfortable and clean without feeling stripped.
Can I use this as a facial oil?
This recipe is designed as a makeup-removing blend, not specifically formulated as a leave-on facial oil. I would use it to loosen makeup, remove it, and then follow with your regular skincare routine.
Keep Your Skincare Routine Simple
One of my favorite things about making your own products is learning how a handful of ingredients can come together to create something useful for everyday life.
This oil-based makeup remover is a straightforward recipe to try if you enjoy DIY skincare and want an alternative to disposable makeup wipes. As always, pay attention to how your own skin responds, keep your ingredients and tools clean, and make small batches you can use while the oils are fresh.
Sometimes a simple routine is all you need to end the day feeling a little more put together.
With Love, Jayme
