How To Remove Waterproof Mascara Without Damaging Your Lashes
Waterproof mascara is a must for long days and smudge-proof wear—but taking it off the wrong way can cost you lashes and irritate your delicate eye area.
At Banila Co, we believe your cleansing routine should be just as thoughtful as your makeup. That’s why we created our Clean It Zero Cleansing Balms and Clean It Zero Pure Cleansing Water—two gentle yet powerful options that dissolve even the most stubborn mascara without rubbing, stinging, or compromising your skin barrier.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to remove waterproof mascara the right way—and keep your lashes and eye area healthy in the process.
In This Article
Why Removing Waterproof Mascara Needs Extra Care
What Happens If You Don’t Remove It the Right Way
How To Get Waterproof Mascara Off Easily
The Banila Co Way: How to Remove Waterproof Mascara Gently and Effectively
Double Cleansing: Is It Necessary After Removing Eye Makeup?
Should You Use Natural Oils Instead?
Aftercare Tips to Keep Your Lashes and Eye Area Healthy
Final Thoughts from Banila Co
Why Removing Waterproof Mascara Needs Extra Care
Waterproof mascara is specifically designed to hold up against water, sweat, and humidity, making it a favorite for long days, special occasions, and active lifestyles. But with that impressive staying power comes a challenge—it’s far more stubborn to remove than regular mascara.
Unlike traditional formulas that break down with most oil- or water-based removers, waterproof versions contain film-forming agents and silicone-based ingredients, such as dimethicone copolyol, which form a tight seal around each lash. These ingredients repel water and create a smudge-proof barrier that clings throughout the day.
That’s why it’s important to approach removal with more than just a cotton pad and hope. Gentle, effective cleansing calls for products that can actually dissolve waterproof ingredients without irritating your eyes or damaging delicate lashes.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove It the Right Way
Skipping proper removal—especially with waterproof mascara—can lead to more than just leftover smudges. Mascara flakes may irritate your eyes, cause redness, or even lead to infection. Over time, residue buildup can clog follicles and affect lash growth.
Rubbing too hard doesn’t help either. It can cause lashes to break or shed and may lead to sensitivity or early fine lines around the eyes. That’s why using a gentle but effective remover is key to protecting the delicate eye area and maintaining strong, beautiful lashes.
How To Get Waterproof Mascara Off Easily
-
Oil-Based Makeup Removers
Waterproof mascara breaks down best with oil-based or bi-phase removers. These formulas help dissolve stubborn ingredients without excessive rubbing. Just soak a cotton pad, press gently on closed eyes for a few seconds, then wipe away. -
Micellar Water
Micellar water works by lifting away dirt and makeup with micelles. If you're going this route, choose a formula specifically designed for waterproof removal—like our Clean It Zero Pure Cleansing Water. Infused with Panthenol, Ceramide NP, and botanical extracts like Centella Asiatica and Acerola Fruit, it gently yet effectively removes makeup while hydrating and soothing the skin. Perfect for sensitive eyes or light mascara days. -
Makeup Wipes
Not all wipes are created equal—choose ones designed for sensitive eyes and heavy makeup removal. Look for hydrating, fragrance-free options, and always swipe gently to avoid lash damage. -
Cold Cream Cleansers
Cold creams are rich in oils and can effectively loosen waterproof mascara. Massage onto dry skin, then remove with a damp cloth or pad. -
Double Cleansing Method
Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down mascara, then follow up with a water-based face wash to rinse off residue and impurities. This method ensures a thorough, yet gentle, cleanse.
The Banila Co Way: How to Remove Waterproof Mascara Gently and Effectively
For waterproof mascara removal, we offer two gentle yet effective options to suit your routine.
-
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Our iconic balm starts as a soft sherbet, then melts into a silky oil that dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof mascara—no rubbing, no stinging. It’s made with skin-loving oils that cushion your lashes and eye area while melting away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
To remove mascara like a pro:
- Start with dry hands and scoop a small amount of balm
- Warm it between your fingertips, then gently apply to the eye area
- Use soft circular motions to massage along your lash line, working in the direction of your lashes
- Let it sit for 30–60 seconds to dissolve makeup and hydrate lashes
- Rinse with lukewarm water or wipe with a soft, damp cloth
-
Clean It Zero Pure Cleansing Water
Prefer a lighter option? Our micellar cleansing water gently lifts away waterproof makeup with no rinse required. It’s enriched with skin-soothing ingredients like Panthenol, Ceramide NP, and Centella Asiatica to cleanse and calm in one step.
To use:
- Lightly saturate a cotton pad with cleansing water
- Gently press onto closed eyes for a few seconds to loosen mascara
- Wipe softly across the lashes and lids—no tugging required
Whether you love a balmy cleanse or a quick micellar swipe, both options remove waterproof mascara while keeping your lashes nourished and your eye area calm and clean.
Double Cleansing: Is It Necessary After Removing Eye Makeup?
Even after removing your eye makeup, your skin needs a proper cleanse. That’s where double cleansing comes in. The first step melts away makeup and excess oil, while the second—using a gentle, water-based cleanser—sweeps away impurities like sweat, dust, and buildup from the day.
Whether you wore a full face or just mascara, this two-step ritual helps prevent clogged pores and keeps your skin calm, balanced, and ready for skincare. Pair your balm with our gentle Clean It Zero Foam Cleanser for the best results.
Should You Use Natural Oils Instead?
Natural oils like Jojoba, Sweet Almond, or even Coconut Oil can break down waterproof mascara, but they’re not without downsides. They lack the stability, hygiene, and balanced formulation of a properly designed cleanser—plus, residue is often left behind, which can lead to clogged pores or irritation if not removed thoroughly.
Cleansing balms, like our Clean It Zero collection, offer the best of both worlds. Enriched with skin-loving oils such as Shea Butter, Jojoba, Avocado, Olive Fruit, and Grape Seed Oil, these balms melt away stubborn eye makeup effortlessly. Plus, they’re formulated to support your skin barrier and leave the delicate eye area feeling clean, calm, and hydrated. It’s the smarter, mess-free upgrade your eye care routine deserves.
Aftercare Tips to Keep Your Lashes and Eye Area Healthy
Follow up with a hydrating eye cream to restore balance and prevent dryness. To soothe and replenish, try our Miss Flower & Mr. Honey Propolis Rejuvenating Eye Cream—a rich blend of Premium Honey, Shea Butter, Retinyl Palmitate, and Peptides. It’s made to replenish the delicate eye area, support collagen production, and smooth out early fine lines.
Bonus tip: Incorporating a lash serum into your nighttime routine can help maintain soft, fluttery lashes—even if you wear waterproof mascara daily.
Think of it as the final, calming step in your mascara ritual—because healthy lashes deserve just as much care as the rest of your skin.
Final Thoughts from Banila Co
Waterproof mascara doesn’t have to be a pain to remove. Whether you prefer the comforting melt of our cleansing balms or the refreshing swipe of our Clean It Zero Pure Cleansing Water, both are designed to cleanse gently, nourish your lashes, and protect your delicate eye area.
Explore the full Clean It Zero collection and melt—or swipe—away the day with ease. No stinging, no raccoon eyes—just happy, healthy skin and lashes.
