Makeup wipes are basically the two minute noodles of the beauty world: we know they’re not the best choice (for a total cleanse), but they’re often what we end up reaching for in moments of exhaustion. And though we’ve long turned to them in times of need (AKA those nights we’re unable to muster enough strength to make it to the sink), we think it’s time we weaned off the wipes…
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Why you may need to be wary of wipes
Some wipes can actually be pretty harsh on skin. In fact, just the amount of pressure required to take your makeup off using a wipe (that isn’t drenched in a particularly effective solution) is far more intense (and potentially irritating) than other options. All the dragging and rubbing that goes on during the process can trigger an increase in redness, blemishes and fine lines; you’ll feel like you need more makeup to conceal them and the vicious cycle will kick off again.
Secondly, they’re not really getting the job done. You know that feeling when you’ve been wiping away for what feels like an eternity and still more smudge-y stains show up with every swipe? Well, the reason it looks and feels like you’ve never really taken your full face off is because you haven’t, as the whole rinsing process is pretty essential to an effective cleanse.
Thirdly, anything disposable that fits into the ‘one use only’ category obviously isn’t doing the environment any favours. And even if your own bathroom bin is filled to the brim with makeup wipes, just think about the damage they’re doing landfill wise (where they take years to break down).
Now don’t get us wrong, wipes are still damn handy and we’d rather you swab one across your mug after a night out than head to bed with a full smokey eye in tow. But when it comes to everyday cleansing, for the sake of your skin, consider these alternatives instead…
What to use instead of face wipes
Makeup Eraser
Makeup Eraser The Original MakeUp Eraser ($32, sephora.com.au)
Warm water is all you need with this clever cloth–it’ll even nix waterproof eye makeup (no easy feat). Each cloth also lasts up to a thousand washes, which seems like a pretty decent deal for a $32 investment.
Green+Kind
Green+Kind Reusable Make Up Remover Pads Mixed 10 Pack ($25, floraandfauna.com.au)
Meet the ultimate cleansing combo: micellar water and bamboo makeup remover pads. Washable, reusable and made from bamboo and cotton, they’re even double-sided with one texture for general cleansing and one to aid with gentle exfoliation.
FOREO
A cleansing tool you can keep for years? Sounds like a sustainable option to us. This silicone device effectively cleanses without triggering irritation, and even helps to relax muscle-tension points in your face as it goes–one step, multiple benefits.
The Body Shop
The Body Shop Luxury Facial Flannel ($9, thebodyshop.com/en-au)
After a particularly gentle cleanse? Pair this facial flannel with a soothing cleansing balm. The super soft flannel fabric feels ultra-luxurious, and won’t leave your skin feeling dry or tight post-wash. It also makes precision-cleansing a cinch–the inner corners of your eyes will feel fresher than ever.
Wotnot
Wotnot Natural Face Wipes ($8.99, wotnot.com.au)
If you can’t cope with the thought of breaking up with your trusty towelettes completely, promise us you’ll opt for a biodegradable pack. These gentle gems are kinder to your skin and the environment than regular wipes, using luxuriously soft (and 100 per cent biodegradable) cloth.
I agree that wipes don't do a thorough job of removing make up. They are handy when travelling though and using toner afterwards on a reusable pad, bamboo or otherwise should take any residue off