Taking off makeup can be a very involved process without the assistance of a good makeup remover. Many opt for makeup remover wipes because it eliminates the need to scrub and rinse. However, these one-use wipes are harmful to the environment and can be harmful to your skin.

There is an alternative, reusable makeup remover pads, which are a win all around for the environment, your health, and your wallet. Here’s why you should make the switch now.

Environment

Reducing waste is always a good idea, especially when it’s an easy change. Makeup wipes can be more harmful than you think, and though they haven’t been around for more than a few decades, their popularity and mass production are wreaking havoc on the environment.

Clogging sewer systems

In general, wipes shouldn’t be flushed because they cannot be removed during wastewater treatment, therefore they are ending up in oceans. Additionally, they can clog plumbing systems, causing a higher risk of bursts and spills that leak harmful bacteria into the ecosystem.

Not biodegradable

Makeup wipes are not biodegradable because they are mostly made of synthetic plastics and fibers like polyester and rayon. It can take up to one hundred years for one makeup remover wipe to break down. 

Wasteful plastic packaging

Those convenient wipe packages that allow you to pull and reseal aren’t so convenient sitting in a landfill as plastic waste. Synthetic plastic never breaks down, but turns into smaller particles called microplastics, which won’t turn into soil or organic material.

Health

Even though they may seem moist, light, and refreshing, makeup remover wipes aren’t necessarily effective at removing makeup and cleansing skin. 

Harmful chemicals

Some makeup wipes contain chemicals in a group known as “endocrine blockers,” which prevent your endocrine system from producing the correct amounts of hormones needed for normal functioning. This can have long-term effects on estrogen levels.

Ineffective at removing makeup

Your face may feel refreshing and clean after wiping, but that’s only because it feels moist to the touch. Makeup wipes tend to simply push dirt and makeup around your face, spreading it and giving the illusion that it’s gone when all you’ve done is spread and push it into your pores.

Not meant for all skin types

The most common way to use makeup wipes is to scrub it across your face. The issue with scrubbing a makeup wipe across your face is that they are highly abrasive, causing irritations and microtears in your skin—this can age your skin faster.

Other options

The most popular brand of makeup wipes, Neutrogena, costs approximately $9 for a 25 pack. If you were to use one pack a month, that’s $108 a year.

Convinced you should make a change? Here are options that are better for your skin and the planet. Reusable makeup remover pads use microfiber cotton, bamboo, or other organic materials that trap dirt and makeup with water. The best part? To clean, all you have to do is throw it in the laundry!

Store-bought

• MakeUp Eraser: Rated the best long-lasting reusable makeup remover, MakeUp Eraser can last three to five years, saving the environment from approximately 3,600 makeup remover wipes.

• Greenzla Reusable Makeup Remover Pads: These 100% organic bamboo cotton rounds are affordable, safe for all skin types, and come with a convenient laundry bag to keep your rounds from getting lost.

Homemade

• Tshirt: Take a t-shirt that’s not too old, but one you can part with. It should be 100% cotton. Wet it, and add a dab of your favorite face cleanser. Rinse thoroughly, and wash at least once a week!
• Natural ingredients: If you prefer natural ingredients, try washing your hands thoroughly and, with a dab of coconut or olive oil, rub your face like you’re washing it. Rinse thoroughly. Pat your face dry with a soft facecloth.

Beauty is subjective, but it’s a fact that makeup wipes can be damaging for the earth and your health. Make the switch to one of these alternatives!