The Best Way to Remove Makeup, According to a Dermatologist

If we’re being honest, the very last thing we want to do before bedtime is often our skincare routine. It can be hard to steer away from our cozy bed and Netflix shows and towards the sink to wash away our makeup—especially after a long day or night out. 

But sleeping with our makeup (or sunscreen) on is a major no-no according to the rules of skincare. With help of board-certified dermatologist we explain the importance of removing makeup and washing your face before bedtime—plus, the best alternatives to single-use cleansing wipes.

THE IMPORTANCE OF REMOVING MAKEUP 

Removing your makeup before bedtime isn’t just hygienic (no one likes spotting mascara streaks on their pillow), it can also help prevent many of the most common skin concerns—such as dark spots and premature fine lines. “When we sleep, the body as a whole, including the skin, undergoes cellular repair and replenishment. There’s also acne. Whether we realize it or not, oil, sweat, dirt, bacteria, and other gunk can accumulate and adhere to the skin throughout the day. Mix those impurities with makeup (even non-comedogenic formulas) and you’ve created the perfect recipe for clogged pores and breakouts.

Makeup remover wipes are a quick and easy option if you’re always forgetting to cleanse before bed (or you’re feeling lazy—something many of us can relate to once we’re in sweats). They don’t even require a sink, after all. But while convenient, many of the cleansing wipes on the market contain harsh ingredients such as formaldehyde, alcohol denat, and methylisothiazolinone that are rough on the skin and its acid mantle. This can leave your face prone to irritation and breakouts. 

1. Makeup Wipes Don’t Actually Remove Everything

Without a doubt, makeup wipes can be addictively satisfying.  You can easily pull a wipe out of the package and swipe it across your face to “remove” your makeup in a matter of seconds. Then, you can examine the wipe to find “evidence” that your makeup has been removed.  Here’s the sad truth, ladies:  makeup wipes don’t actually remove everything off of your face.  

Unfortunately, makeup wipes do not effectively cleanse the skin as well as facial cleansers and water do.  Makeup wipes do partially remove makeup and bacteria present on the surface of the skin.  However, makeup wipes do not thoroughly break down and cleanse oil, dirt, and makeup beneath the surface.  Instead of cleansing and removing the day’s grime, you can end up just smearing and redistributing it all over your face! 

By failing to provide a thorough cleanse, makeup wipes can leave behind makeup, dirt, and oil that can clog pores and cause breakouts.  In addition, many makeup wipes leave behind a film that can contribute to additional skin irritation.

2. Makeup Wipes Contain Harsh Ingredients

Sadly, makeup wipes contain harsh ingredients that are harmful to the skin.  Most makeup wipes contain alcohol, sulfates, fragrances, and chemical preservatives that will not be rinsed away with water.  These ingredients can be drying, cause allergic reactions, and be problematic to sensitive skin.  

One of the most common cleansing ingredients found in makeup wipes is sodium lauryl sulfate.  Unfortunately, this cleansing agent is known for being irritating to the skin and eyes. 

In addition, makeup wipes contain preservatives to extend the shelf life and stop bacteria from growing on premoistened wipes.   Anti-microbial preservatives such as Diazolidinyl urea can be very irritating and drying to the skin. 

Be sure to look out for problematic ingredients when purchasing makeup cleansing wipes! 

3. Makeup Wipes Can Cause Skin Irritation

Have you ever noticed that your face looks a bit red or rashy after using a makeup cleansing wipe? Makeup wipes contain harsh, drying ingredients that can cause redness and skin irritation.  

In addition to containing harsh ingredients, makeup wipes contribute to unnecessary skin exfoliation.  While exfoliation is important for healthy skin, too much of it is a bad thing!  The texture of most makeup wipes is harsh enough to be considered a mechanical exfoliant.  Over-exfoliation due to prolonged use of makeup wipes destroys the delicate surface layer of your skin.  

THE BEST INGREDIENTS TO REMOVE MAKEUP

According to Dermatologist, nothing truly compares to washing your face properly with a good cleanser. If you wear makeup (or simply sunscreen) look for a face wash that melts away makeup and impurities without stripping moisture from your skin. Our Cleansers- one of them is  infused with vitamin C and niacinamide and other one contains Salicylic Acid— do clean-rinsing and melts away every last bit of makeup, from mascara to foundation.

You can also sweep away any remaining impurities when armed with a  Hydrating Toner and Reusable Cotton Pad.