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Reduce your plastic use with these organic and reusable makeup remover pads.
| Items in this article are hand-selected and vetted for their commitment to minimizing their impact on the environment. If you purchase one of these items we may or may not earn a commission. |
Makeup remover pads have become an essential step in almost every woman’s nighttime routine – quick, easy, and efficient. But, although they do the job, these pads may not be the best thing for your skin or for the environment. And, chances are you’re not thinking about the long-term effects of this small step in your nighttime routine. The truth is, most single-use wipes are made from non-biodegradable materials such as polypropylene that pollute the environment.
If you’re one to flush these plastic wipes down the toilet, wastewater treatment plants are at risk of blockages. Unfortunately, even when they’re put into waste bins polypropylene is a type of plastic waste that can leech into our water sources and soil when it’s dumped into landfills. And, in 2018, landfills received over 26 million tons of plastic alone. Adding to the environmental impact is how makeup remover pads can impact our health. Some wipes contain high levels of preservatives that can lead to irritations or allergic reactions on the face.
Now for the good news. If you’re looking for a way to help lessen the impact from your your beauty products, here are some more eco-friendly makeup removal options for a more sustainable nighttime routine.
Eco Roots Organic Cotton Rounds
Made from organic cotton and bamboo these makeup remover pads are larger in width than other brands making them ideal to use on the face and neck. EcoRoots’ pack of ten can be used for cleansing, applying serums and of course removing makeup. Once you’ve gone through your rounds, you can easily reuse and rewash them.
Environmental Impact: These are made of cotton and bamboo allowing them to be reused and composted instead of being throw away. Since EcoRoots is a zero-waste brand, these are shipped in plastic-free recyclable packaging.
Seek Bamboo Organic Makeup Remover Pads
Another organic cotton option, Seek Bamboo’s makeup removal pads are soft, chemical-free and contain natural antibacterial properties. As an added perk this set of twenty makeup removing pads comes with an organic bag you can use for easy travel and simple washing.
Environmental Impact: Bamboo is one of the world’s fastest growing plants and requires little to no pesticides. It also has antibacterial and antifungal.
The Organic Pharmacy Muslin Cloth
This muslin cloth is all natural and gluten, sulfate and fragrance-free. You can use it as a gentle exfoliate and even pair this cloth with your favorite cleanser. Made from 100% cotton, it’s suitable for all skin types to help achieve a fresh glow.
Environmental Impact: The Organic Pharmacy offers a range of natural and organic products for the face, body and hair. Their muslin cloths are made from natural cotton that is grown without pesticides and is processed without the use of fragrances and chemical dyes.
Marley’s Monsters Organic Cotton Rounds
Double-layered and 100% organic cotton, these facial rounds from Marley’s Monsters are super soft and exceptionally durable – bound to withstand any makeup products. The best part is that cotton is hypoallergenic – meaning it rarely causes an allergic reaction. Sold in a pack of twenty, these rounds can be bought in either a white or natural tone. And, of course they’re reusable and safe for washing.
Environmental Impact: Marley’s Monsters cotton makeup remover pads are only shipped in recyclable and compostable materials. All of their core products are made with rounded corners to reduce scraps, and new products are often designed from scraps of existing ones. All fabric scraps are donated to St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County and ENIVA Fashion where they are upcycled into new products.
Jenny Patinkin Organic Bamboo Luxury Pads
Jenny Patinkin’s pure luxury pads are naturally hypoallergenic, antibacterial and antimicrobial. Their reusable bamboo rounds have a soft terry texture that also works to gently exfoliate the skin. And, they come in a faux croc pouch that’s perfect for travel or organized storage.
Environmental Impact: Jenny’s products each feature eco-conscious elements, whether it’s sustainably sourced, vegan, organic, non-toxic, or recyclable. All products and packaging are hand-made and designed to be reusable or repurposable keepsakes, rather than disposables.
Eve Lom Muslin Cloths
If you’re looking for another lux cleansing experience consider these Eve Lom muslin cloths. Sold in a pack of 3, they’re gently exfoliating to leave your skin not only clean, but also exceptionally smooth and soft. As an added bonus, the fabric gets softer with every use.
Environmental Impact: Eve Lom blends naturally derived ingredients and essential oils to create products that are free from harmful additives such as parabens and sulfates, as well as synthetic fragrances and dyes.
Now more than ever, it’s easier to find sustainable alternatives that help reduce our overall environmental footprint. Remember, it takes a minimum of about 100 years for plastic and other cosmetic materials to break down in a landfill. If we want to be a part of minimizing our environmental impact and contributing to the solution, we can start by simply switching to a more sustainable makeup removing method.