Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Depending on the product, there are some that also provide hydration or moisture. Keep in mind, though, that these wipes are mainly for removing makeup, so it’s still recommended to go through your whole skincare regimen.
To effectively use a makeup remover wipe, gently press it against your face for around 10 seconds and allow the product to work its magic. Start from the middle of your face, moving outwards in a gentle swipe. Don’t skimp on the wipes–if one sheet isn’t enough, use as many sheets as necessary.
Makeup remover wipes consist of cloths soaked in micellar water. These are convenient to remove makeup, sunscreen, or moisturizer at the end of the day, especially when you are on the go.
When choosing which makeup remover wipes are right for you, there are a few key factors to take into consideration. This includes your skin type, moisturizing properties, material, and the overall ingredients. Get more information on these essential pointers below.
There are two primary types of makeup remover used in wipes: oil-based and water-based. If you're trying to decide on one but don't know where to start, continue reading below to know more about them:
If you're someone who frequently wears full-glam makeup, you might be better off choosing oil-based makeup remover wipes. These sheets are powerful enough to remove even heavy and waterproof makeup. They might also be a better pick for those with delicate skin since they melt off impurities easily and gently without requiring any harsh scrubbing or tugging.
However, if you have acne-prone skin, they may not be the best choice for you. This is because their formulation needs to emulsify on your skin to completely remove any dirt, makeup, or impurities. Hence, if it doesn't thoroughly emulsify, the oil residue can eventually clog your pores.
Water-based makeup remover wipes are more suitable for removing light makeup. Contrary to common misconceptions, they are not made of water. Instead, they contain surfactants that allow them to remove water-soluble residues like dirt and makeup on the outermost layer of the skin. But it is worthy to note that not all surfactants are the same.
The cult-favorite micellar water contains mild and gentle surfactants that can gently cleanse without drying your skin, making it suitable for those with dry and sensitive skin. However, other water-based removers can contain tough surfactants like sulfates that can provide you deep cleansing but may strip off your skin's natural oils.
Micellar water contains surfactants, purified water, and conditioning agents. Surfactants are made of two parts: a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. The oil-loving tails dissolve the oil, dirt, and makeup. Micelles form when surfactants arrange themselves with the water-loving heads facing toward the water in the solution. The oil-loving tails are then hidden away from the water.
Alcohol is a common ingredient found in many beauty products. Although it gives that slightly cool and refreshing feeling after wiping, it has the tendency to strip off the skin's natural moisture. When that happens, it can cause your skin to dry or feel a stinging sensation. This is especially the case for those who have sensitive skin.
To find out whether the wipes contain alcohol or not, see the ingredients list and avoid SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol. To make sure that your skin is not sensitive to a particular product, also make it a habit to do a patch test.
Alcohols are added in skincare products because they act as solvents, and they facilitate the penetration of skincare products. They also improve the product texture, making them easier to spread and apply.
Simple alcohols like SD alcohol, ethanol, methanol, and denatured alcohol have lower molecular weights than fatty alcohols. They tend to be drying on the skin, especially when there is a high percentage in the formulation, so it's best to patch test the product first, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Aside from removing your makeup, there are wipes that also moisturize and refresh the skin. These typically contain hydrating ingredients, like vitamin B, aloe vera, glyceryl caprate, Centella Asiatica, olive oil, birch sap extracts, and argan oil. Since cleansing with wipes can be harsh on the skin, these ingredients can combat the drying effect that usually comes with makeup removal.
However, keep in mind that they are not supposed to replace your moisturizers. Apart from hydrating ingredients, you can also find ones infused with antioxidants, like vitamin E, skin-soothing elements, like allantoin, rosemary, and sage extracts. And there are also a few with cleansing and exfoliating ingredients, such as triple purified water and bamboo charcoal.
Makeup remover wipes that are packed with extra ingredients like these give you a bang for your buck. They can also come in handy when you’re traveling, and you don’t have the room to pack all your cleansers, creams, and lotions. But always remember that it’s still very important to cleanse and moisturize your skin properly.
Makeup remover wipes also contain ingredients like glycerin and fatty alcohols that moisturize the skin. Take note that they should not be used constantly especially for those with allergies to preservatives like methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone.
They can also come in handy for emergenciesーsuch as unforeseen sleepovers or times we end up a sweaty mess after a workout or a hot summer day. After all, it’s better to take off your makeup and completely redo it, instead of retouching it while you’re sweaty.
Using makeup remover wipes depends on one's preference and budget. For those who are always on the go, it's more cost-effective to compute the price per sheet so that you will be able to get the product that has more value for money.
Sensitive skin needs extra care, which is why the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths will be your new favorite. You won't ever have to worry about flare-ups or breakouts, as these facial wipes promise a gentle cleansing experience minus all the harsh chemicals. Its mild, fragrance-free, and soap-free formulation removes makeup and dirt without causing any irritation.
On top of that, it has an optimal pH level of 5.5, so you can rest assured that these wipes eliminate impurities without disturbing the skin's natural oils. Moreover, this product is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and sensitive types.
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Aloe vera, Vitamin B3, Pro-Vitamin B5 |
Sheet Count | 25 |
Type | Water Based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Sakura Extracts, Rye Seed Extract |
Sheet Count | 20 |
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin |
Sheet Count | 30 |
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | Yes |
Key Ingredients | Micellar Water, Niacinamide, Tea Tree Oil, Witch Hazel |
Sheet Count | 30 |
Type | Water Based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | Yes |
Key Ingredients | Micellar Water, Triple Purified Water |
Sheet Count | 25 |
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera, Green Tea, Vitamin E, Collagen |
Sheet Count | 30 |
Type | Oil-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | Yes |
Key Ingredients | Hydrating Beauty Essence |
Sheet Count | 10 |
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Tetraselmis Micro-Alga |
Sheet Count | 20 |
Type | Water Based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Tomato Essence, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Arbutin |
Sheet Count | 15 |
Type | Water-based |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | No |
Key Ingredients | Plant Essence |
Sheet Count | 1 |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Meg Sison.
Be careful not to tug on your skin when using makeup remover wipes, and do not scrub the product on the skin, especially on the delicate eye area.
It is best to use them only as needed because these contain preservatives that could cause contact dermatitis, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Makeup remover wipes should not be reused because these are designed only for single use.
Yes, because makeup remover wipes may not be enough to remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen, moisturizer, sebum, and sweat on the face at the end of the day.
End your day and face the next one with clear and bright skin with other face cleansing products apart from makeup remover wipes. Click the links down below to see more of our recommendations!
Re-editor: Katreen David
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cetaphil | Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloth
No. 2: Céleteque® DermoScience™ | Dermo Science Hydration Make Up Remover Wipes
No. 3: blk | Skin Brightening & Soothing Makeup Removing Wipes
No. 4: Luxe Organix | Miracle Solutions Acne Derm+ Micellar Cleansing Wipes
No. 5: Simple | Micellar Cleansing Wipes
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation