By I think it’s safe to say that many of of us love a good all-in-one makeup removing wipe; they’re just so easy and convenient! But whether it was just a phase or you still can’t seem to let go of them, it’s time for you to come to terms with a harsh reality: makeup wipes are bad for you. Yes, that’s the biter truth, but we have to accept it and ditch them asap. Keep reading to find out why:
They Don’t Really Clean Your Skin
When you’re using them, it seems like you’ve found the quickest solution to wipe away your whole night’s makeup; with a few swipes and no mess, you look as good as new! Unfortunately, it’s a scam and what’s apparent to the naked eye isn’t the same story as what’s actually going on. According to Glamour, makeup wipes just “smear around whatever makeup, dirt, and dead skin is hanging out on your face, leaving a trail of irritated skin”.
They Are Harsh For Your Skin
Repeatedly rubbing the wipes across your face and eyes can be abrasive and extremely rough on the skin. In some instances, they can even cause micro tears to the skin which can result in signs of ageing in the long run, including skin pigmentation and wrinkling.
Harmful Chemicals
Most makeup wipes are full of harmful ingredients that further irritate the skin. The strong chemicals strip the natural oils from your skin and disrupt its pH balance, resulting in redness and inflammation. The protective layer of your skin, known as the ‘acid mantle’, is compromised when makeup wipes are used, this layer is very important for your skin’s health.
Over Exfoliation
Exfoliating is great for the skin, but overdoing it can cause the complete opposite result. Using makeup wipes especially for those who apply makeup everyday or regularly, can result in the over exfoliation of the skin, particularly for those who may choose to exfoliate with another product afterward. The prolonged use of wipes can lead to increased sensitivity, inflammation and a rise in breakouts.
They’re Bad For the Environment
Single use makeup wipes are not only harmful for your skin, but also the environment. “According to the FDA, cleansing wipes are made of materials such as polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood pulp, or rayon fibres, many of which aren’t biodegradable” (InStyle). Additionally, most wipes simply end up accumulating in landfill over time, even if they claim to be “biodegradable” the product can take years and years to actually disintegrate. What’s worse is the packaging the wipes are placed in; this plastic is more often than not non-recyclable and non-biodegradable.
Do yourself (and the earth) a favour and double cleanse. Swap out your makeup wipes for a gentle balm or oil that nurtures your skin rather than harms it.
What do you think?
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