How does a biphasic makeup remover work?

Marketed since the 1950s, the two-phase lotion is increasingly establishing itself as a staple among traditional makeup removers. It combines the effectiveness of micellar water, without its drying aspect, with the gentleness of makeup removing oil, without its occasional film-forming effect.

This performance is derived from its two separate phases : aqueous and oily. The aqueous phase is typically formulated with hydrosols (of rose, cornflower, lavender...), while the oily phase is rich in vegetable oils (of sweet almond, jojoba, avocado...).

Biphasic makeup removers enable the removal of all types of makeup, even the most stubborn ones. These treatments are very gentle and are well tolerated by individuals with sensitive skin. They are also suitable for sensitive areas of the face, such as the eyes or lips.

The mechanism of action for a biphasic makeup remover relies on the ability of oils to dissolve hydrophobic components of makeup, such as pigments, waxes, and oils, but also sweat and sebum, while the aqueous phase allows for the dissolution of hydrophilic components, such as water, salts, and sugars. Each phase therefore has its own role in the removal of makeup. These are the principles of lipophilicity (fat dissolution) and hydrophilicity (aqueous compound dissolution) upon which the functioning of a biphasic makeup remover is based.

"Classic" cleansers, or non-biphasic ones, often utilise a simple water-in-oil emulsion. Although this type of emulsion is also capable of dissolving oil-based makeup, it lacks efficiency when it comes to water-based products, such as mascara, eyeliner or lipstick. Indeed, the oily phase of these emulsions tends to form a thin layer on the skin which prevents the aqueous phase from completely dissolving the water-based makeup.

The method of use for a biphasic makeup remover is straightforward: it simply requires vigorous shaking of the bottle to mix the two phases. This results in a product capable of effectively lifting all impurities and makeup residues present on the skin's surface, even the most stubborn ones. Once the mixture is prepared, apply a small amount of the product onto a makeup removal cotton pad, and hold it for a few seconds on the area to be cleansed before gently sliding it over the rest of the skin.