How to Make Natural Makeup Removers: 3 DIY Recipes to Try

Removing makeup shouldn’t mean stripping your skin of moisture or using harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a natural, affordable way to cleanse your face, DIY makeup removers are a gentle, effective solution. These homemade blends are made with skin-loving ingredients you likely already have.
Here’s everything you need to know about making your makeup removers at home—plus three easy recipes tailored for healthy, glowing skin.

Why Go Natural? The Hidden Perks of DIY Makeup Removers

Store-bought removers often contain alcohol, fragrance, or preservatives that irritate mature, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. Homemade alternatives are:

• Gentler on skin – no harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances
• Budget-friendly – most ingredients are pantry staples
• Customizable – adjust for your specific skin type
• Eco-friendly – reduce packaging waste and environmental impact

The Science Behind the Ingredients

Each ingredient in a DIY makeup remover serves a unique role. Here’s why they work:

• Coconut oil (1) breaks down waterproof makeup and hydrates (Rich in medium-chain fatty)
• Aloe vera soothes and calms the skin with anti-inflammatory properties (Indian Journal of Dermatology, 2008)(2)
• Witch hazel removes excess oil and tightens pores naturally (Journal of Inflammation, 2010) (3)
• Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s sebum, making it suitable even for oily skin (International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018) (4)

These ingredients work synergistically to cleanse, moisturize, and protect the skin barrier.

Know When to Skip It

Stop using DIY removers if you notice:

• Breakouts or clogged pores
• Increased sensitivity or redness
• Excessive oiliness or dryness

Discontinue use and patch-test before applying new recipes to your entire face.

Custom Blend: Adjust to Your Skin’s Needs

Don’t be afraid to tweak recipes:

• Add more oil for dry skin
• Use less oil or switch to aloe for oily skin
• Include a few drops of tea tree oil for acne-prone skin
• Use rose water or green tea in place of plain water for extra benefits

Start small and test what works best for your skin type.

Who Can Use These DIY Makeup Removers?

Homemade makeup removers are generally safe for:

• Dry and sensitive skin – use oil-based blends
• Oily and acne-prone skin – try aloe, witch hazel, or non-comedogenic oils
• Mature skin – add nourishing ingredients like rosehip or jojoba oil
• Combination skin – balance oil and water phases based on your needs

Are DIY Removers Safe? What You Need to Know

Yes, when made and used properly. Tips to ensure safety:

• Use clean, dry containers for storage
• Avoid essential oils unless diluted properly
• Always patch-test new ingredients
• Refrigerate recipes with aloe or water-based components and use within 7–10 days

3 Best DIY Makeup Remover Recipes You Can Make at Home

1. Coconut & Witch Hazel Dual Cleanser

This recipe is ideal for removing heavy or waterproof makeup while balancing oil and soothing inflammation. Coconut oil melts away makeup effortlessly, and witch hazel tones and calms the skin.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (preferably virgin, unrefined)
• 2 tablespoons alcohol-free witch hazel
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional, for hydration and aroma)
• Clean a glass jar with a lid

Directions to Use

• Warm the coconut oil slightly if solidified—do not overheat.
• Combine coconut oil, witch hazel, and rose water in the jar.
• Stir or shake well to blend.
• Store at room temperature for up to 10 days. Shake before each use, as ingredients may separate.

How to Apply

• Shake the jar to mix the oil and liquid phases.
• Soak a cotton pad with the mixture.
• Gently swipe over your face and eyes in circular motions.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat skin dry.

Pro Tip

Use this remover at night to dissolve makeup and follow up with a gentle cleanser for double cleansing.

2. Aloe Vera & Jojoba Oil Soothing Remover

This is a lightweight, non-comedogenic remover that’s great for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Aloe calms and hydrates, while jojoba oil mimics your skin’s natural oils.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons pure aloe vera gel (no added fragrance or color)
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (for nourishment and preservation)
• Small airtight container (preferably glass)

Directions to Use

• Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl.
• Transfer the blend to a clean, sealed container.
• Refrigerate to preserve freshness.
• Use within 7 days, as aloe vera can spoil quickly.

How to Apply

• Scoop a small amount onto your fingertips.
• Massage gently over dry skin, including eyes and lips.
• Let it sit for 30 seconds to dissolve makeup.
• Wipe clean with a warm, damp washcloth.

Pro Tip

Use this after sun exposure or during breakouts to remove makeup while calming redness and irritation.

3. Olive Oil & Green Tea Nourishing Cleanser

Perfect for dry or mature skin, this antioxidant-rich blend hydrates while cleansing. Green tea fights oxidative stress and soothes the skin, while olive oil softens and dissolves makeup residue.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons strongly brewed green tea (cooled completely)
• 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (optional for added hydration)
• Small glass bottle or jar

Directions to Use

• Brew a green tea bag in 1/4 cup hot water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Cool completely.
• Mix olive oil, green tea, and glycerin in the container.
• Shake well before each use, as oil and tea will naturally separate.
• Store in the fridge and use within 5–7 days.

How to Apply

• Shake the bottle thoroughly.
• Apply to a cotton pad or cloth.
• Press gently on the skin and wipe makeup away slowly.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and follow with toner or mild cleanser.

Pro Tip

Use this on nights when your skin feels tired or dull—olive oil and green tea together give a noticeable glow boost.

DIY makeup removers are not just cost-effective—they’re skin-friendly and customizable. With the right ingredients and proper care, you can cleanse your skin gently while preserving its natural balance. Try one of these simple recipes and enjoy clean, nourished skin without the chemicals.