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Removing lipstick might sound simple, but anyone who’s worn a bold red or a deep berry shade knows the struggle, especially when you wear a matte lipstick that lingers even after cleansing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to remove lip stain from lips naturally and safely, which products actually work, and how to keep your lips soft and healthy after cleansing.
Why Removing Lipstick Gently Matters
We know lips are particularly gentle and sensitive. Though your lip skin is also composed of three layers of skin just like the rest of your body, the protective stratum corneum is much thinner, making your lip skin prone to cracking and damage. Additionally, your lip also doesn’t have sebaceous glands (oil and sweat glands) to keep the skin moisturized.
Do you remember the last time when your lips got cracked and even bled when you were dehydrated?
That’s why you must be extremely careful when wiping the lipstick off your lips. If you rub too hard or use the wrong products, your lips can end up dry, flaky, irritated and even damaged, especially for long-lasting or highly pigmented lipsticks.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove lipstick gently and effectively, no matter the formula, while keeping your lips healthy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Lipstick Gently and Safely
Step 1: Find a Microfiber Cloth
Using the right tool is the first step in learning to remove lipstick from lips naturally.
Before you apply any remover, always remember to use microfiber cloth. A microfiber cloth is one of the best options for taking off lipstick because it’s soft, non-abrasive, and reusable. Always press the cotton gently against your lips when applying remover and avoid scratching the delicate skin.
Step 2: Start with an Oil-Based Cleanser
Oil is one of the most effective ways to remove matte lipstick pigments. Whether it’s a cleansing oil, coconut oil, or olive oil, oils dissolve makeup without stripping off moisture from your skin.
- Apply the oil to a cotton pad or any microfiber cloth.
- Hold it on your lips for 20–30 seconds.
- Wipe away gently until the lipstick lifts away.
This step helps melt away even long-lasting matte lipstick while hydrating and nourishing your lips without irritation.
Step 3: Try Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin
If your lips are easily irritated, micellar water is a great alternative. It attracts dirt and pigments like a magnet while staying gentle on delicate skin. Look for formulas designed for waterproof makeup.
- Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water.
- Hold it over your lips for a few seconds.
- Swipe off slowly and avoid rubbing aggressively.
This is another gentle approach to removing lipstick without causing dryness.
Step 4: Wipe Gently from Outer to Inner
Pay attention to your gestures when removing the lipstick. Keep in mind that you should wipe gently from the outer edges toward the center of your lips, in a vertical motion. Avoid rubbing side-to-side or scrubbing harshly because this can irritate delicate skin.
A bonus tip：
It helps to keep a slight smile while doing this. It opens up the natural creases of your lips so the remover can fully penetrate and allow you to clean any residue left in the fine lines.
Step 5: Don’t Forget to Moisturize and Protect
After removal, don’t forget to rehydrate your lips. Matte formulas can be drying, so restoring moisture is essential.
- Apply a nourishing lip balm with shea butter, jojoba oil, or hyaluronic acid.
- For extra care, use an overnight lip mask to lock in hydration.
Consistently caring for your lips ensures they stay smooth and ready for your next matte lipstick look or any lipstick you wear.
Special Note on Matte Lipsticks
Matte lipsticks are beautiful but notoriously long-lasting. They often contain more pigment and less oil, which makes them cling to your lips. To remove them safely:
- Always start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve the color.
- Be extra gentle. Avoid scrubbing or peeling.
- Re-hydrate generously afterwards since matte formulas can be drying.
Quick Do’s and Don’ts
√ Do use oil-based cleansers or gentle micellar water.
√ Do exfoliate once or twice a week.
× Don’t scrub harshly because it can damage delicate lip skin.
× Don’t skip moisturizer after removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I remove matte lipstick with just water?
Not really. Matte lipsticks are designed to be long-lasting, and plain water won’t break down the pigments. For best results, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water.
2. How to remove lip stain from lip without makeup remover?
If you don’t have makeup remover, try natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or even petroleum jelly. Apply a small amount, let it sit for 30 seconds, then wipe away with a soft cotton pad. This is one natural method for removing lipstick from lips naturally.
3. Is Vaseline good for removing lipstick?
Yes! Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is effective for softening lipstick pigments, especially with matte formulas. Apply a thin layer, let it melt the color, and then gently wipe off.
4. Why does matte lipstick leave a stain even after cleaning?
Unlike creamy or glossy lipsticks, matte formulas are designed to stick. They usually contain fewer oils and more pigment that cling to your lips. If a faint stain remains, press an oil-soaked cotton longer to your lips and try to keep a slight smile while scrubbing, so that any residue left in your lip creases can be cleaned up. Then reapply balm to prevent dryness.