Methods for performing a photolithographic process are disclosed. The methods facilitate the removal of photosensitive from a wafer after the photosensitive has been used as an etch mask. The photosensitive may be a negative tone photosensitive that undergoes a cross-linking process on exposure to electromagnetic energy. By limiting the cross-linking through a reduced post-exposure bake temperature and/or through reduced cross-linker loading, the photoresist, or at least a portion thereof, may have a reduced solvent strip resistance. Because of the reduced solvent strip resistance, a portion of the photosensitive may be removed using a solvent strip. After the solvent strip, a dry etch may be performed to remove remaining portions of the photoresist.