ETUDE PPOYAN Lip & Eye Remover 250ml

ETUDE PPOYAN Lip & Eye Remover 250ml: The Dual-Phase Workhorse Makeup Remover

The PPOYAN Lip & Eye Remover is ETUDE's longest-running makeup remover and a staple in Korean teen and early-twenties routines for over a decade. At $21.84 for 250ml (more than double the bottle size of the typical bi-phase remover), it's one of the better value buys in the category. The formula is a classic two-phase system: an oil layer floating on a water layer that you shake together before each use, creating a temporarily emulsified remover that dissolves both oil-based and water-based makeup in a single wipe.

ETUDE built PPOYAN around a straightforward job: remove Korean long-wear lip tints and waterproof mascara without rubbing the skin raw. The "PPOYAN" in the name comes from the Korean onomatopoeia for smooth softness, and the remover is specifically tuned to be non-stinging around the eyes. Most bi-phase removers pass the mascara-removal test; few feel this gentle on the actual eye area.

What It Does

The oil phase dissolves waterproof mascara, long-wear liner, and stubborn lip tints through direct solvent action. The water phase (with mild surfactants) lifts away water-based makeup and sweeps everything clean in the wipe-off step. Shaking the bottle before use creates a temporary emulsion that lets one product handle both makeup types. After a 20-second sit on a cotton pad, you can wipe most Korean makeup off without scrubbing.

Who It's For

• Waterproof mascara wearers: Dissolves the film base without tugging lashes.
• Long-wear lip tint users: Lifts pigment without dry-rubbing the lips.
• Sensitive eye skin: Gentler than pure oil cleansers in the eye area.
• Daily heavy makeup routines: 250ml lasts 3 to 4 months of daily use.
• Pre-oil-cleanse users: Handles point makeup before the full double cleanse.

Key Specs

• Volume: 250ml
• Price: $21.84
• Format: bi-phase (oil + water)
• Hero ingredients: caprylic/capric triglyceride (oil phase), mild surfactants (water phase)
• Fragrance: very mild, almost unscented

How to Use

Shake the bottle vigorously for 3 to 5 seconds to emulsify the two phases. Saturate a cotton pad (the pad should be fully wet but not dripping). Press onto closed eyes for 15 to 20 seconds to let the remover dissolve the mascara, then gently swipe outward. Repeat on the lips for tint removal. Follow with a full cleanse (oil cleanser, then foam) for a complete double-cleanse routine.

For lash extensions: the oil phase can degrade extension adhesive over time. Use with caution or switch to an extension-safe micellar water if you're currently wearing extensions.

FAQ

Is this the same as micellar water?

No. Micellar water is a single-phase product that uses micelles (surfactant clusters) to lift makeup. Bi-phase removers like PPOYAN have a dedicated oil layer that's more effective on waterproof and long-wear products. Bi-phase is stronger for heavy makeup; micellar is gentler for light makeup days.

Does it replace my oil cleanser?

No. PPOYAN is a point-makeup remover for eyes and lips. A full oil cleanser handles full-face sunscreen, foundation, and remaining point makeup residue. Use PPOYAN first (eye and lip), then oil cleanser (full face), then foam cleanser.

Does it sting if it gets in my eyes?

Mildly, less than most bi-phase removers. The surfactants in the water phase are chosen for low eye irritation. If you accidentally get some in your eye, rinse with water for 30 seconds. No long-term harm.

How long does 250ml last?

3 to 4 months of daily heavy-makeup use, 6 to 8 months of lighter use. The large bottle is one of the better value propositions in the remover category.

Can I use it for nail polish?

No. Bi-phase makeup removers don't contain enough acetone to dissolve polish. Use a dedicated polish remover.

Related Products

Pair with ETUDE SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser as the second cleanse step after PPOYAN. For eye-specific makeup looks that need heavy removal, PPOYAN handles ETUDE Dr. Mascara Fixer fiber formulas cleanly.

Browse the full ETUDE collection or related: Korean makeup removers, Korean cleansers.