Hello, it’s me again with another skincare rant. If you read the last article I wrote, then you already know I’ve been on top of my skincare game lately. One thing I’ve learned throughout my extensive research (that’s what I call stalking dermatologists’ accounts on TikTok) is just how harsh makeup wipes are on your skin. It makes sense, but I let the convenience of makeup wipes blind me from the bitter truth that they’re just a skincare scam. Up until a few months ago, I was vigorously scrubbing my face with makeup wipes, which got the job done but always left my face sticky and irritated. No doubt this was another contributor to my already inherently dry, red, and irritated skin. Needless to say, a change in this step of my skincare routine was long overdue.

So, I broke up with my makeup wipes and fell head over heels for my rebound: Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micellar Water. This micellar water is just $15 on Amazon, which is a tad more expensive than makeup wipes, but I promise it’s worth every penny. Micellar water is a magical skincare product that cleanses, moisturizes, and removes makeup all in one single step. The micelle particles in micellar water behave as magnets that attract and remove dirt and other impurities, while gently cleansing, moisturizing, and soothing your skin. Additionally, this solution respects the skin’s hydrolipidic film and prevents dirt build-up in your pores. It is suitable for any skin type, but it is especially ideal for those with sensitive skin, since it prevents the irritation and dryness exacerbated by makeup wipes. My experience with Bioderma Sensibio H20 has been nothing short of wonderful. It feels so soft against my skin, and after each use I can confidently say that my face always feels clean, smooth, and hydrated. I’ve also noticed a significant decrease in irritation and redness, especially around my eyes. I solely use this product as a makeup remover, but given its natural cleansing, hydrating, and soothing properties, it can be used as a standalone facial cleanser, although the skincare gods and goddesses might condemn you for it. 

Bioderma – Sensibio H2O – Micellar Water – Cleansing and Make-Up Removing – Refreshing Feeling – for Sensitive Skin — $14.99

For a while, I was using disposable cotton pads with the micellar water to remove my makeup, but I recently came across a much better and more sustainable alternative. I now use Lunelle Charcoal Bamboo Reusable Makeup Remover Pads, which are just $12 on Amazon. This includes 12 reusable charcoal bamboo pads, a mesh laundry bag, and a 100% sustainable charcoal konjac sponge for exfoliating your skin. These all-natural face pads are made with five layers of cruelty-free and ultra-soft charcoal bamboo as compared to other makeup remover pads, which are typically made with one or two layers of regular bamboo. The charcoal bamboo provides additional benefits to the skin due to its dehumidifying and strong absorption properties. Charcoal bamboo helps remove impurities and absorb excess dirt and oil from the skin, and it is suitable for any and every skin type. Not only will you be saving money with these charcoal bamboo pads, but you will also be reducing waste in oceans and landfills, as each one of these pads can replace 1,000 disposable cotton pads. That’s right, one whole thousand. 

Lunelle Charcoal Bamboo Reusable Makeup Remover Pads 12 Pack – Reusable Face Pads with Laundry Bag + Charcoal Konjac Sponge Bamboo Makeup Remover Pads – Sustainable Reusable Cotton Pads Face Gift Set — $11.88

Regardless of how satisfying it may be, taking my makeup off is by far the most dreaded step in my nightly skin care routine. Or so it used to be. Now that I’m basking away in skincare paradise, I genuinely look forward to each and every step, including taking off my makeup. Back in the day, I was going through two or three disposable cotton pads a night just to get all the makeup off my face, which not only was a royal pain, but it also generated a lot of unnecessary waste. Fortunately for both myself and the environment, the charcoal bamboo pads have completely transformed the nature of makeup removal. The first time I used them, I nearly put on a whole new face of makeup just so that I could take it off again. Not to be dramatic or anything—but yes, they are that amazing. They are luxuriously soft against my fragile skin, and they remove my makeup more effectively than any disposable cotton pad or makeup wipe ever did. The color of the pads is a benefit in and of itself: They don’t noticeably stain, and washing them is more convenient than ever with the accompanying mesh bag. Aside from the aforementioned reasons for this purchase, it was the finger pocket that prompted me to choose these pads above the rest. This unique attribute undeniably makes the pads easier to grip and maneuver as you clean your face. All in all, they’re easy, breezy, and they’ll make you feel beautiful. 

These skincare products come in rare form and, together, they are a force to be reckoned with. Sustainable and suitable for everyone? Say less. Glow up and go green.