Why use reusable makeup pads over single-use ones?

Cotton is the main material in single-use makeup wipes and is notorious for its negative impact on the environment.

A large amount of water is required to produce such a small amount of cotton, which damages animal habitats due to the use of land for agriculture and pesticides. It is, undoubtedly, much better for the environment to use reusable cotton pads, often made with sustainable cotton blends, over conventional cotton pads or make up wipes.

Even if your single-use makeup wipes aren’t cotton based, they are often made from synthetic plastic fibres and packaged in a plastic sleeve. Neither these nor cotton pads are recyclable, meaning they will end up in landfill – adding to the already out-of-control amount of waste.

Reusable cotton pads can last up to 1000 washes when washed weekly, but they'll last even longer if you simply rinse them out after use a few times before popping them in the wash.

Not only can they be used to remove makeup, but nail varnish too – making it a versatile investment. Use the smooth pads to remove makeup to avoid irritation, and rough ones to remove stubborn nail polish.

They aren’t just limited to removal, but application too. You can use the soft textured pads to apply toners and creams to any skin type.

You can apply whatever product you want to reusable cotton pads, as well as avoiding the harsh chemicals and fragrances found in single-use makeup wipes. Avoiding irritation is so much easier with this simple swap.

Other alternatives include the EraseYourFace and FaceHalo makeup remover pads – perfect for if you're off on holiday and have limited luggage space. These soft pads need to be rinsed with water before use to remove your makeup with ease. They are kind to skin, easy to use and convenient, as you don’t need to bring any makeup remover.

Where to buy reusable cotton pads

Zero waste shops

Local zero waste shops are the best place to buy your reusable cotton pads, as you can support sustainable local businesses in your local area. But if there isn’t one nearby, try an online shop such as &Keep, which sells 10 Bambaw reusable cotton pads for £8.95. A bargain if you ask me. While you’re there, check out other ways you can make eco-friendly changes, such as investing in reusable period products or stainless steel straws.

Boots

Boots sell a set of 16 reusable cotton pads from Bambaw, which includes four rough and 12 soft bamboo velvet ones. With both textures in one pack, you can find out which work best for you. The pack contains plenty, allowing you to grab for a clean one if you forget to slip your used one in the wash. You can check them out here.

Beauty Bay

Online beauty giant Beauty Bay offers the LastRound reusable cotton pads. They can last over 1750 uses and come with a cute, travel-friendly case. They may be considered even more eco-friendly than their counterparts as they can be composted at home when you no longer want them. At £11 for a set, they are a great option for sustainability and convenience.

Whether you’re ready to commit to sustainability or want to make small changes, reusable cotton pads are a great place to start.

Edited by Amy Mullen-Brown