Makeup Wipes Aren't Real Cleansers, Dermatologists Say—Try Gentler Alternatives

Dermatologists say makeup wipes don’t actually cleanse the skin; they move makeup and debris around and can irritate the skin with friction, preservatives and fragrance, potentially weakening the skin barrier over time. For a proper cleanse, use a gentle makeup remover or cleansing balm/oil, then double-cleanse with a mild cleanser, and consider eye-makeup removal with a gentle lotion on a cotton pad. Alternatives include micellar water, reusable cloths, cleansing balms, and plant-based cleansers. Environmentally, wipes are single-use and often nonbiodegradable or nonrecyclable; choose alcohol-free/fragrance-free or biodegradable options when possible.