How to Get Stage Makeup Off Your Face

Theatrical makeup is designed to stay put.

Because it must be visible from a distance while surviving hot lights and strenuous activity, stage makeup can be more stubborn to remove than normal makeup. Whether you were in a play or show or just at a party, you’ll need the appropriate removal products unless you want to be wearing the makeup for the rest of the week. Items that effectively and gently remove stage makeup are available in almost every dollar store or supermarket.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizer or baby lotion
• Tissues
• Baby wipes

Instructions

1. Wipe a light moisturizer over your face. Baby lotion is cheap and fine for this purpose. Make gentle, circular motions with your fingers, but don't rub. Wipe the moisturizer and makeup away together with tissues.

2. Apply more moisturizer around the eyes and lips and wipe away, taking care not to drag the skin.

3. Use a baby wipe to remove the moisturizer residue and any last traces of makeup.

4. Rinse your face with tepid water and proceed with your normal skin care routine if you have one.

Tips & Warnings

• Commercial makeup removal products often also work on stage makeup. Generally, removers based on oil, rather than alcohol, are most effective.

• Check the labels on your makeup items. While baby lotion or makeup remover works for stage makeup in general, some brands might have specific removal instructions.

• Don’t rub at your skin while removing makeup. If something is stubborn, simply repeat the applications of lotion or remover until it is gone.

• Don’t sleep in stage, or any other, makeup. This blocks pores and can lead to breakouts.

References

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Novelty Makeup