Here's why you should ditch the make-up wipes

After a long day of work or a night of partying, most women reach out for make-up wipes to remove cosmetics and built-up bacteria. But while they offer a quick fix, wipes don’t properly clean the skin. Many of them contain harmful ingredients that cause  irritation and even lead to breakouts over time. The rubbing motion can further cause ageing as well.Experts weigh in...  

Use correctly

Make-up wipes are used mainly for removal of make-up and dirt. The technique of using these is crucial to their effectiveness. Dr Batul Patel, medical director and dermatologist, The Bombay Skin Clinic explains that such wipes should be used in small strokes on the face while every time using a different section of the wipe which helps to absorb the product and dirt as much as possible. “Previously wipes had a very high alcohol content, and while using these it is important to splash water on the face and moisturise thereafter. Whereas the newer wipes are more hydrating. The best alternative to wipes are micellar water solution. They can also be used for the under eye area as well. There are thermal spring water cleansing solutions too which are very hydrating and gentle on the skin.”

Look at ingredients

Stephanie Schedel, skin care expert and director training, Malu Wilz opines that make-up wipes do help to remove make up. “The problem is the ingredients contained. As they are cheap, they contain cheap ingredients too such as a high content of mineral oils which stick to the top layer of the skin. As a result, ingredients used in a skin care product afterwards cannot penetrate into the skin. So from a long term perspective they can cause irritation and even breakouts.”

Make-up wipes do not clean the face thoroughly and usually leave some residue behind. They mostly move dirt around the face, however as a last resort they can be used occasionally when one is tired or travelling says Dr Apratim Goel, laser surgeon and dermatologist, director  Cutis Skin Studio. “Most wipes are saturated with formaldehyde releasing and other chemicals, solubilisers, surfactants and emulsifiers that allow for easy removal of make-up, which means they can leave chemical residue on the skin. If used incorrectly, they can smear make-up into the skin instead of removing the particles completely. Plus,if they contain alcohol, they can be irritating and cause dryness. Excessive rubbing may also lead to premature wrinkles and lines,” she warns.

Don’t skip a second cleanse

Dr Aneesh Sheth, dermatologist and founder of Dr Sheth’s, suggests opting for make-up wipes that are micellar (which means they have a cleansing agent in them) and not simply water or alcohol-based. “Breakouts will happen when you use this as your only source of cleansing. Make sure to do a second cleanse with a good face wash post make-up removal,” he adds.

Although make-up wipes are helpful, they shouldn’t replace a regular cleansing routine says Sangita Vij, head — beauty and make-up, VLCC Wellness Services. “Remember to follow up with a proper face wash or cleansing milk. More than following up, it’s best to use cleansing milk or oil-based makeup removers for those smudge-proof eyeliners and lipsticks.”