Foundation, mascara, or evening makeup: when you get home, a short routine is easier to follow than a series of improvised steps. The starting point is to distinguish makeup removal, facial cleansing, and eye area care. Here is how to prepare these steps while respecting the intended use of each product.
Plan makeup removal before bedtime
In its advice on makeup for acne-prone skin, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends removing makeup, including eye makeup, before going to sleep. It then describes washing with a mild cleanser without rubbing the skin.
Start by reading the directions on your makeup remover: authorized areas, application method, and any rinsing. If you wear waterproof makeup, check that the chosen product is intended to remove it. The word "cleanser" on a bottle does not document this use on its own.
To make coming home easier, prepare your products and a clean towel before the evening. There is no need to choose several new products to organize this time: first identify the role of those you already use.
Reserve products intended for the eye area for the eyes
The FDA reminds not to use a cosmetic near the eyes that is not intended for that use. It also advises being careful not to scratch the eye or sensitive areas during the application and removal of makeup.
This distinction matters when choosing a facial cleanser. The current precautions of the SMZ Dr Sophie gel and foam presented below require avoiding contact with the eyes. Follow this instruction, even if your makeup is difficult to remove. For the eyes, follow the directions of a specifically adapted makeup remover.
Settle in to perform this step carefully. In the event of irritation caused by an eye cosmetic, the FDA recommends stopping its use and consulting a professional if the irritation persists.
Cleanse the face with gentle motions
For washing the face, the AAD recommends wetting the skin with lukewarm water and applying the cleanser with the fingertips. It advises against rubbing vigorously: a mitt or sponge can also irritate the skin. Rinsing is done with lukewarm water, then drying by blotting with a soft towel.
Keep these guidelines in mind when switching to the chosen cleanser. Do not increase pressure to compensate for a product that does not match the makeup worn. Instead, go back to its instructions and those of the makeup remover.
Gel or foam: read the directions for use of the chosen product
The aloe vera facial cleansing gel — 200 ml, featured on the cover, is a rinse-off gel. According to the label transcribed on its current sheet, it is applied in a pea-sized amount to a previously moistened face, morning and/or evening. The massage is delicate and followed by a water rinse.
The aloe vera facial cleansing foam — 150 ml also calls for application on a moistened face, a delicate massage, then a rinse. These are two distinct products to compare; their presentation here does not invite you to use them successively.
Their current directions of use do not document a waterproof makeup removal use. They therefore do not justify applying them to the eyes or inventing a protocol on dry skin. Always consult the label on your own bottle.
Your list for an evening with makeup
- Identify: which product removes the makeup worn and on which areas?
- Distinguish: the face and the eyes, according to the precautions of each product.
- Cleanse: follow the directions for use, with a gentle massage and the intended rinse.
- Finish: dry delicately, then resume the usual care adapted to your skin.
To compare textures and instructions, browse the Face selection and open the sheet of the product that interests you.
Sources and credits
Sources consulted on October 31, 2026:
- American Academy of Dermatology — I have acne! Is it okay to wear makeup?
- American Academy of Dermatology — Face washing 101.
- FDA — Eye Cosmetic Safety.
- SMZ Dr Sophie — current sheets of the 200 ml cleansing gel and the 150 ml cleansing foam, information from the provided labels.
Photographs: SMZ Dr Sophie store catalog. General advice, without personalized medical recommendation.