One surprising and highly effective use of coconut oil—such as Dr. Bronner’s Regenerative Organic Certified Coconut Oil—is removing stubborn makeup. Coconut oil works exceptionally well, even on waterproof mascara. It’s both safe and efficient, which matters because many commercial makeup removers rely on preservatives and chemicals that raise safety concerns.
Some conventional removers do a good job at dissolving makeup but fall short on ingredient safety. Certain products contain parabens and other preservatives that have been flagged by safety databases for potential hormone disruption or other hazards. For something applied near the eyes, choosing a gentler option makes sense.
While conventional makeup removers can remove makeup effectively, most totally flop when it comes to ingredient safety.
Soap isn’t a great alternative for eye makeup removal. Getting soap in your eyes is uncomfortable and risky, especially when trying to remove waterproof products. That’s where oil-based cleansers shine.
Why oil works
Makeup—especially many eyeliners, mascaras, and colored cosmetics—is often oil- or wax-based. Oils are lipophilic, meaning they attract and dissolve other oils. In short: like dissolves like. Coconut oil penetrates and loosens oil-based makeup, lifting it away from skin and lashes without the stinging and irritation that can come from soap.
Coconut oil reaches into crevices where water-based cleansers can’t, effectively dissolving pigments and waxes so they can be wiped away gently.
Only Coconut Oil?
Any plant-based oil will generally remove oil-based makeup. Olive, hemp seed, and jojoba oils are excellent alternatives; mineral oil—derived from petroleum—is best avoided. Many people prefer coconut oil for its pleasant scent and texture. Whatever oil you choose, look for a clean, minimally processed option.
Directions
- Place a small amount of coconut oil on your fingertip—about half a pea-sized amount of solid oil or a thin coating if it’s liquid.
- Gently massage the oil into the makeup, working along the lash line and over liners.
- Allow the oil to dissolve the makeup, then use a cotton swab or soft tissue to wipe it away.
- Finish by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any residue.
Two of our staff members tested coconut oil as a sole remover for full-face makeup, including waterproof products, and the results were impressive.
The makeup came off cleanly and easily.
After removal, skin appeared clean and refreshed.
Coconut oil alone can remove even heavy makeup when used correctly.
Testimonial
Jessica W., a marketing project manager, shared her experience: she found coconut oil gentle on her eyes and likened the process to a soothing facial. After switching to oil cleansers, Jessica noticed clearer, healthier skin and fewer breakouts. For her, coconut oil helped simplify her routine and improve skin confidence.
Many people find that using a simple natural oil for makeup removal reduces irritation, clears pores more effectively than some harsh cleansers, and supports healthier-looking skin over time.
Further reading
- Coconut Oil Cheat Sheet for Kitchen & Body Care
- Bar Soap Dilutions Cheat Sheet
- Cleaning Makeup Brushes with Castile