If you’re wearing eye makeup regularly, removing it properly is essential — especially mascara and eyeliner, which can irritate the skin if rushed or rubbed.

How to do it properly:

 1. Soak a cotton pad with eye makeup remover or micellar water

 2. Press two pads together so they’re evenly damp

 3. Close your eyes and gently press the pads onto your lashes

 4. Hold for a moment to dissolve mascara

 5. Gently wipe away — never rub or drag

 6. Repeat if needed

 7. Lightly wipe underneath the eyes (this skin is thin and delicate)

Your eyes should feel clean and comfortable, never irritated or sore.

Cleansing is one of the most important steps for trans feminine skin — especially if your skin is naturally thicker or oilier.

The aim is to cleanse thoroughly without stripping the skin, which can worsen sensitivity or breakouts.

Option A – Using Pads (Micellar or Cleansing Water)

 1. Soak a cotton pad with cleanser

 2. Start in the centre of the face and wipe outwards towards the hairline

 3. Always sweep towards the temples to avoid dragging the skin

 4. Don’t forget the jawline and neck

Option B – Using Your Fingers (Cream, Gel or Balm Cleanser)

 1. Massage cleanser into the skin using your fingertips

 2. Use gentle, upward circular motions

 3. This helps dissolve makeup, SPF and excess oil

 4. Rinse with lukewarm water — never hot

Your skin should feel clean, comfortable and calm, not tight or squeaky.

Toner is optional — not essential.

Older-style toners were designed to counteract harsh cleansers. If you’re using gentle products, your skin’s pH is usually already balanced.

Some modern toners can help by providing:

 • Light hydration

 • Calming or soothing ingredients

 • Gentle exfoliation

 • A refreshing feel

If you enjoy using toner, you can apply it with a cotton pad or mist lightly over the skin.

Exfoliation can be especially helpful for trans feminine skin, which may be thicker or prone to congestion.

However, over-exfoliating is one of the most common mistakes, particularly during hormonal changes.

How to exfoliate safely:

 1. Apply exfoliator with your fingertips

 2. Use gentle circular movements

 3. Avoid harsh scrubbing or pressure

 4. Rinse with lukewarm water

Your skin should feel smooth and calm afterwards — never red or sore.

The eye area is delicate and often one of the first places to show dryness or sensitivity.

How to apply:

 1. Use your ring finger to apply a small amount

 2. Dot under the eyes along the natural orbital bone

 3. Gently tap or massage using small circular movements

 4. Optional: use a cooling eye roller to de-puff and soothe

Avoid applying too close to the lashes.

Moisturising is essential — especially as hormones can change how your skin holds onto hydration.

Skipping moisturiser can lead to increased oil production and sensitivity.

How to apply:

 1. Apply to clean hands

 2. Press into the skin using upward and outward motions

 3. Patting is gentler than sweeping and avoids pulling the skin

Tip:

 • Day moisturiser = lighter texture, comfortable under makeup

 • Night moisturiser = richer, supports overnight skin repair

Your skin should feel soft, supported and balanced, not greasy.

Morning Routine – SPF

SPF protects the skin from sun damage, pigmentation and sensitivity — all of which can be heightened during hormone changes.

Apply every morning, even on cloudy days.

Evening Routine – Serum

At night, serums help support hydration and skin repair.

Gentle ingredients to look for include:

 • Hyaluronic acid

 • Ceramides

 • Niacinamide

How to apply:

Press gently into the skin using upward motions — never drag.