The Truth About What's Really In Makeup Remover Wipes

Makeup wipes can appear to be a miracle product at times. It's so convenient to shove them in your gym bag to wipe away the sweat, post-spin class. They appear to be lifesavers when we're completely out of our facial cleanser. And there really is no more satisfying feeling than looking at all the makeup on the wipe after rubbing your face. While they may appear to be the quick and easy way to clean our faces of makeup, not all experts agree makeup wipes are ideal to use. "They are formulated to break down makeup," explains Dr. Tijion Esho, an aesthetic doctor based in London to Insider. "The chemicals in some cases can be harsh to your skin causing microtears or push makeup and debris deeper into your pores leading to further problems, " he adds. "Even simple water alone is better than using a wipe."

According to the FDA, makeup wipes are made from materials such as polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood pulp, or rayon fibers formed into sheets — mostly synthetic materials which aren't biodegradable. And what the wipes are soaked in — sometimes formaldehyde-releasing chemicals — is not beneficial for your skin either (via Glamour).

"Makeup wipes are quick and convenient but not optimal for overall skin health," says Dr. Craig Kraffert, dermatologist and president of Amarte to HuffPost. He further explains saying that any residue left behind may expose your skin, having a drying and irritating effect on some people. In addition, InStyle claims that the aggressive rubbing many of us do to remove all of our makeup off with a wipe can result in microtears and further irritation of our skin.

Makeup wipes were made to remove makeup from your skin. Microtears, clogged pores, and a negative impact on the environment, unfortunately, trump their quick and convenient selling points. If you continue to use makeup wipes, HuffPost recommends avoiding the wipes that have fragrances, as it could increase your chances of additional skin irritation. You can also look for wipes that are made out of biodegradable materials to give your post-spin class cleansing regimen a green thumbs up.