Lots of facial cleansers are soap-based and really good at removing dirt and powder-based makeup, but not so great at taking off mascara—especially if it’s waterproof. They’re also not all safe for use on eyes. (Ahem, burning!) Oil-based cleansers and eye-makeup removers work significantly better to remove mascara’s wax and preservatives, but try to make sure that the product you’re using is mineral-oil free. Mineral oils are inexpensive and common for cosmetic companies to use, and in theory, they’re not “bad,” but they create a barrier that traps acne-causing comedogenic products below your skin’s surface. You won’t need an eye-makeup remover if you cleanse with a product like M.A.C Cosmetics Cleanse Off Oil ($32 for 150 ml,maccosmetics.com). It purifies with botanicals like evening primrose and vitamin E, but it’s 100 per cent soap- and mineral-oil free.
