Which makeup remover cloth is best?
Whether you only wear a little lip balm and mascara or a full face of makeup on a daily basis, removing it at the end of the day can be an arduous multistep process. But makeup remover wipes and cloths are a fast, easy solution to the makeup-removal process.
Makeup remover cloths are washcloth-like products made of soft, gentle fibers. When these cloths are damp, the weave of the fabric magically lifts the makeup off your face without smearing it around, so you don’t need any cleanser. A great option is the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloths.
What to know before you buy a makeup remover cloth
Reusable vs. disposable cloths
Makeup remover cloths tend to be reusable, while makeup remover wipes are usually disposable. There are pros and cons to each type: Makeup remover cloths are machine-washable, cost-effective, nonirritating, gently exfoliating and deep cleaning, while wipes are hygienic, travel friendly, workout-ready and hassle-free.
Right size and shape for you
Makeup remover cloths usually differ in size from about 4-by-5 inches to 12-by-12 inches. Larger cloths tend to last longer before they need to be washed. Cloths also usually come in either a square or rectangular shape, but there are some mitts out there that offer more targeted control.
On the go
Makeup remover wipes are also a great option to bring along when you’re out and about. For example, you can take wipes to the gym to remove all of the sweat on your face after a tough workout. At the end of the day, you can use them to remove makeup, soothe and hydrate your skin, exfoliate and cleanse. Many makeup remover wipes also come in travel-friendly packages that you can put in your purse or carry-on bag.
What to look for in a quality makeup remover cloth
Material
Most makeup remover cloths are composed of synthetic fibers — usually polyester — which are less prone to bacterial growth than cotton. Microfiber cloths tend to be less soft than the cloths designed for makeup removal, but they are typically more exfoliating.
Micellar water
Many makeup remover wipes feature micellar water, which helps draw out oil, dirt and impurities without overdrying your skin.
Beneficial qualities
There are many makeup remover cloths out there that have soothing, hydrating or exfoliating qualities. Look for the cloths that will work best for you and your skin.
How much you can expect to spend on a makeup remover cloth
Makeup remover cloths and wipes start around $5 to $9 for a 30-count package, while individually wrapped cloths and wipes you would find at a boutique hotel or spa can cost up to $40 for the same number. You can also find packages with 25 to 30 high-quality, feature-packed makeup remover wipes for about $12 to $20.
Makeup remover cloth FAQ
Can you really remove long-wearing or waterproof mascara with a makeup remover cloth?
A. Yes, you can remove waterproof or long-wearing mascara with makeup remover cloths or wipes. While wipes will remove your long-wearing and waterproof eye makeup much easier and faster than cloths, you can still use makeup remover cloths with a little extra tugging and rubbing. If you find it difficult to remove your eye makeup with a makeup remover cloth, just apply a little extra eye makeup remover to the cloth.
What are your options for makeup remover cloths if you try to only use green, nontoxic beauty products?
A. Makeup remover cloths don’t include any harsh chemicals, so they are your best option when it comes to green and nontoxic beauty products for removing makeup. You can also find makeup remover wipes that are advertised as free of harmful chemicals like phenoxyethanol or parabens. You should search for makeup remover wipes or cloths that feature plant-based ingredients and are free of fragrance and dye, since those tend to be less toxic than other options.
What type of makeup remover cloths should you use for acne-prone skin?
A. Using makeup remover cloths or wipes of any kind will reduce your acne, especially if you use them before and after a sweaty workout. Make sure to find makeup remover wipes that are advertised as oil-free. Also, keep in mind that makeup remover wipes with micellar water might not be cleansing enough if you have oily and acne-prone skin, so you should look for wipes that are marketed as clarifying instead of hydrating.
What’s the best makeup remover cloth to buy?
Top makeup remover cloth
Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloths
What you need to know: These makeup remover cloths from Koh Gen Do use premium ingredients that nourish your skin.
What you’ll love: Soothing and refreshing, these makeup remover cloths leave a pleasant smell with light notes of ginger, rosemary and mint. They are also infused with lactic acid and lift off your makeup without irritating or stripping your skin.
What you should consider: These makeup remover cloths are fairly large and can be cut in half.
Top makeup remover cloth for the money
Danielle Enterprises Erase Your Face Makeup Removing Cloths
What you need to know: These travel-friendly and affordable makeup remover cloths are gentle enough for people with sensitive skin to use.
What you’ll love: These budget-friendly Danielle Enterprises makeup remover cloths come in a set of four and gently buff away your makeup, including any waterproof makeup you might be wearing.
What you should consider: Keep in mind that these makeup remover cloths might require you to do extra scrubbing to remove highly pigmented makeup.
Worth checking out
La Fresh Travel Lite Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes
What you need to know: These large makeup remover cloths from La Fresh are silky, nongreasy and perfect for those with sensitive skin.
What you’ll love: The La Fresh makeup remover cloths include vitamin E and other excellent ingredients. They are also biodegradable, not tested on animals, TSA-approved for carry-on bags and individually wrapped so that they don’t dry out.
What you should consider: Some customers reported a strong and unpleasant smell in these makeup remover cloths.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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