How to Remove Mascara from Clothes

Mascara Stains: Act Before It Dries

Mascara is one of the trickiest makeup stains because it's designed to be waterproof and long-lasting — exactly the properties that make it hard to remove from fabric. But with the right approach, even waterproof mascara stains can be fully removed. The key is acting fast and using a proper makeup remover rather than just water.

What You'll Need

• Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
• Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes
• 99% Isopropyl Alcohol (for waterproof mascara)
• Dawn Ultra Dish Soap
• Carbona Liquid Stain Devils
• Microfiber cloths
• Cotton pads

Step-by-Step: Regular Mascara on Clothes

1. Don't rub — let it dry slightly first. Wet mascara smears easily. If it's very fresh and wet, blot gently with a dry cloth to absorb excess before treating.
2. Apply micellar water. Soak a cotton pad with Bioderma Micellar Water and press onto the stain. Let sit 2–3 minutes — the micellar formula dissolves mascara pigments and oils.
3. Blot from outside in with a clean microfiber cloth. You'll see the black mascara lifting onto the cloth.
4. Apply Dawn dish soap for any remaining residue. Work in gently and let sit 5 minutes.
5. Rinse with cold water and check. Apply Carbona Stain Devils if pigment remains.
6. Machine wash cold. Check before drying.

For Waterproof Mascara on Clothes

Waterproof mascara is oil-based and needs a stronger solvent:

1. Apply isopropyl alcohol first. Dab 99% Isopropyl Alcohol onto the stain with a cotton pad. This breaks down the waterproof formula.
2. Blot thoroughly with a clean cloth.
3. Follow with micellar water to lift remaining pigment. Apply Bioderma Micellar Water and blot again.
4. Apply Dawn dish soap, rinse, and machine wash cold.

Quick Fix On-the-Go

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes are perfect for treating mascara stains immediately when you're away from home. Blot gently — don't rub — to prevent spreading, then do a full treatment when you get home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does micellar water remove waterproof mascara from clothes?

Bioderma Micellar Water works well on regular mascara. For waterproof mascara, start with isopropyl alcohol first to break down the waterproof formula, then follow with micellar water.

Can mascara stains be removed after drying?

Yes, though dried mascara is harder to remove. Apply micellar water and let soak for 5–10 minutes to rehydrate the dried mascara, then follow the full treatment method. Multiple rounds may be needed.

Will mascara stain white clothes permanently?

Not if treated correctly. The black pigment in mascara can look alarming on white fabric, but micellar water and Carbona Stain Devils are very effective. For white fabrics, add OxiClean White Revive to the wash for extra stain-fighting power.