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 Are Makeup Wipes Bad for Your Skin?

A significant improvement I have made to the condition of my skin involves diligently adhering to my nightly cleansing regimen. This practice has contributed to the alleviation of my hormonal acne, and I frequently receive compliments regarding the radiance of my skin. Nevertheless, there are occasions when I feel dissuaded from cleansing my face due to the presence of makeup. For those who also utilize makeup, the challenge of its removal is well understood. It is conceivable that this substantial endeavor contributed to the development of makeup wipes. These facial wipes, which are frequently single-use, are designed with surfactants, solubilizers, and emulsifiers to eliminate makeup, excess oil, and dead skin cells. However, the question remains: are these products beneficial, or do makeup wipes have detrimental effects on skin health?


This article will provide an in-depth discussion with respect to makeup remover wipes. In particular, we look at some common ingredients found in such and their possible effect on the skin. After this review, one might find it best to stop using them altogether. If you decide that route is best for you, well also offer some alternatives to using a makeup wipe.

Continue reading for the answers to all of your burning questions about makeup wipes. Spoiler alert: They shouldn't be part of your skincare routine.

Are Makeup Wipes Bad for the Skin? 

While there are certainly people who will continue to use-and swear by-makeup wipes, they're actually bad for your skin. You might feel like your face is clear of makeup and grime, but makeup wipes tend to move that stuff around instead of cleaning it off. It's worth mentioning that if you've found these are the only things that work for your skin, do you.

Indeed, makeup wipes can also irritate sensitive skin, like cases of dry skin or even those who suffer from acne. In such cases, and for similar skin conditions, it can be suggested that a person use a gentle cleanser, like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser. Indeed, this cleanser suits every skin type. Moreover, it is surely better than letting impurities stay above the skin.

What are makeup remover wipes composed of?


The U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains, "cleansing wipes, [like makeup wipes], are sheet materials impregnated with an aqueous solution of fragrances, preservatives, emollients, and humectants, comprising any of the following: polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood pulp, or rayon fibers." This can be said to be less than perfect for skin health. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes rank among the most well-known makeup removal products available. To hammer this home, we would review the ingredients that comprise this product selection. According to INCI Decoder, a tool that helps individuals understand what is in their skincare products, a lot of the low-quality ingredients are included in these makeup wipes. Included in those are fragrance and hexylene glycol. Fragrance can seriously irritate the skin, which is not what one would want. The only active ingredient that actually cleans the skin is hexylene glycol; all other ingredients simply move dirt around on the skin.

However, this ingredient can irritate your skin or clog your pores. And that is why makeup wipes are bad for skin.


Instead of Makeup Wipes: What to Use I gave up makeup wipes in 2019 because they were ineffective in removing makeup or impurities from the skin, particularly in the case of heavy makeup users. Now, regarding makeup removal, there are a few better options compared to makeup wipes.

I have two favorites: micellar water with a face cloth or cleansing balm as part of a double cleanse. For anyone wondering, double cleansing is an initial oil-based cleanser, followed by washing up with a water-based cleanser. Below, find five of our favorite options to cleanse your skin. And yes, we’ve tried them ourselves!

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water Infused with Vitamin C

Micellar water gets its name from the micelles present in the solution. The micelles act like magnetic particles and help in the effective removal of dirt, residues of makeup, excess oil, and sunscreen. This type of micellar water is chosen as it cleans and brightens the skin. Along with micelles, Vitamin C acts as the active ingredient in this product. This product is further free from oil, alcohol, and fragrances, making it apt for sensitive skin.
Also available on Amazon




Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

Another great option when it comes to micellar water is the one provided by Bioderma. The formula is ideal for sensitive skin, but it works for many other skin types, as well. I purchased this in Mexico when I realized that I had forgotten my cleanser and was really happy with it. As a matter of fact, I used it instead of my cleanser for two weeks, and it worked great. It effectively cleansed my skin while preserving an adequate level of my natural oils.
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Farmacy Green Clean

This product has become a necessity in my skincare routine. I just can't seem to emphasize enough how much I love this cleansing balm. Green Clean has been paramount in keeping my skin healthy, pulling the dirt out and taking away makeup residues. It creates a nice lather when water is added to it; therefore, one can feel the cleaning effect on the skin step by step. I appreciate that this product is accompanied by a spatula housed in a dedicated container, which enhances its hygienic attributes.


Also available on Amazon

Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm

I also really like that this balm is available at a ton of drugstores nationwide. Other than in an adorable, pink container, this pick is dermatologist-tested and clinically tested, as well as cruelty-free. It's formulated with vitamin E and eucalyptus oil, which are respectively great for hydrating skin and supporting the skin barrier.

Also available on Amazon

Krave Beauty's Makeup Re-Wined

Whenever I fly anywhere, this oil cleanser is one of the items I make sure to pack in my toiletry bag. It comes in 3.4 ounces-perfect for carry-on baggage. And yes, I have worn very highly pigmented eyeliner that's very hard to remove and this did an excellent job. Although not a balm because it is in a liquid state, still does wonders for stripping off dirt, grime, sebum, and cosmetic products. It is also vegan, cruelty-free, has no fragrance or essential oil added, and recyclable.

Also available on Amazon



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