A bit too rough for sensitive skin, not at all eco-friendly for the planet , cotton makeup remover pads are no longer popular in beauty rituals. Here are some simple alternatives to remove your makeup more eco-friendly.
Habits die hard. For years, we've been told that we should remove our makeup morning and evening, and most often with cotton. But for a few years now, the waste associated with this massive use of cotton pads has been a concern. After the revolution in solid cosmetics and the rapid arrival of reusable menstrual panties ... the era of disposable cotton seems to be coming to an end. To find the eco-friendly gesture that will suit you best, try one of the alternatives below for several days in a row. Indeed, as with everything, the first time is not necessarily the best, so persevere a little before getting used to a new gesture.
The big trend of washable cottons
They look like classic cotton pads, but a little less white and slightly larger. The difference? Their fabric (bamboo, eucalyptus or organic cotton) is designed to be machine washed and reused. To extend their lifespan, remember to rinse them well after each use to remove most traces of makeup . Reusable squares are now available almost everywhere in major retailers. Personally, we like the ones offered in their washable net from Tendances d'Emma.
The breakthrough of washable wipes
Like reusable squares, washable wipes are inspired by classic wipes, but in an updated eco-friendly version. In short, these are fabric wipes designed for multiple uses. Larger than cotton squares, they also have the advantage of offering a wide choice of fabrics.
You can find them on Etsy .
A very enjoyable zero waste version that will brighten up the edge of your sink. The best part? If you are good at sewing, you can make them yourself using soft and absorbent fabrics (like Tencel's double-sided bamboo micro-sponge).
The return of the simple washcloth
Long maligned, our grandmothers' cleansing accessory is making a comeback. Its plus? Very economical, it is also less irritating than cotton pads or wipes. We like the classic cotton one, to be rinsed well after each use and hung out to dry. Or, even better, the microfiber water makeup remover glove - more stamped beauty - which is used moistened without makeup remover. Order from Sephora or Yves Rocher stores.
A little more expensive, but just as effective, the silicone glove is appreciated for its dual cleansing and exfoliating action (around €20).
The minimalist finger version
Oil, foam, milk or milky micellar water makeup removers can easily be used without cotton, with fingers (obviously clean). Even better: 3-in-1 makeup remover gels, which turn into milk when in contact with water.
Place a little product in the palm of your hands and clean your face directly. The special textures of makeup removers will remove traces of makeup and impurities accumulated during the day. Rinse well, and if your skin feels a little tight, spray a spritz of floral water, thermal water, or any other type of beneficial water in a mist. Be careful, however, for waterproof eye makeup, you have to do it several times, massaging the eyelashes well to remove the mascara. A tip: start by removing eye makeup first and finish by removing complexion makeup.
The exotic Konjac sponge
Coming straight from Japan, this funny sponge (very hard at first glance) is made from a plant, Konjac. To soften it, pass it under water for a few moments and, once softened, use it on your face. The Japanese, true beauty queens, attribute many virtues to it: cleansing, revitalizing and anti-aging! Dry skin will love the Aloe Vera version, while oily skin will prefer the one with purifying charcoal.
