As I gradually work my way through using last year’s Christmas gifts, I was super eager to try the MakeUp Eraser. The irresistible cactus print was enough to catch my eye. This reusable, machine-washable cloth apparently cleans off almost all make-up. And its biggest claim is that it is the #1 Sustainable MakeUp Remover, equaling 3,600 disposable wipes. Does the the product live up to expectations? How does the MakeUp Eraser work, and are there other sustainable make-up remover alternatives?
So many questions, so let’s jump right to it.
IS THE MAKEUP ERASER TRULY SUSTAINABLE?
I take most marketing claims with a grain of salt because not all have been scientifically verified. This one in particular states that the MakeUp Eraser is the #1 Sustainable Make-Up Remover. In short, I believe the statement is a stretch. However, the eraser is a significant improvement to using disposable makeup wipes. While I am still in my first month of using the MakeUp Eraser, it claims to last 3-5 years.
This duration is still longer than how much a bottle of Neutrogena MakeUp Remover would last for me.
Why do I believe the sustainability claim is a stretch? The MakeUp Eraser needs to be washed pretty frequently. It’s a fuzzy fabric that gets moistened often, making it prone to releasing microplastics. Finally, the MakeUp Eraser is made from virgin plastic. If they ever come out with a recycled polyester version one day, I would be eager to try.
Related Posts: Is Recycled Polyester Good for the Environment?
HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO REGULAR MAKEUP REMOVERS?
Since college, I’ve used Neutrogena. But to stay frugal, I now buy Target’s Up & Up version that works just as well. How do these popular options compare to the MakeUp Eraser?
From my perspective, both worked equally well and felt gentle on the skin. The main difference is that the MakeUp Eraser only needs water, and does not leave behind an oily or slick residue on the skin. Because my fabric is light in color though, I do fear dirtying it over time with eyeliner and other dark-colored makeup. Tip: Definitely hand wash with warm water after each use.
Their prints vary throughout the year, but here are some classic colors you can choose from:
HOW DOES THE MAKEUP ERASER WORK? THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE MATERIAL
Part of the magic is surface area. The tiny fibers accumulate to create incredible surface area that can thoroughly penetrate your skin pores and lift off makeup residue. Another reason is that the MakeUp Eraser is made from 100% polyester.
Polyester is a hydrophobic (or conversely, oleophilic—oil-loving) material. In many contexts, this property would not be so great. However, for a make-up remover, it is perfect! Most cosmetics are formulated with oils and waxes. Our skin itself also generates a ton of oil. So you can think of this high surface-area, oil-loving material to remove makeup and dirt quite effectively.
As an added bonus, the MakeUp Eraser has dual functions. The front (short-fiber) side is used for cleansing, while the back for exfoliating. Personally, I don’t believe the MakeUp Eraser should replace a cleanser or exfoliator. It works best as a makeup remover, and I don’t plan on replacing other parts of my skincare routine with it. However, if you end up buying one, give both sides a try to see how you like them!
OTHER SUSTAINABLE MAKEUP REMOVERS YOU CAN DIY AT HOME
If you’re not convinced you need to spend money on a new product and prefer to create your own makeup remover at home, I am please to share that there are many recipes out there!
Disclaimer: I researched a handful of recipes that were created by others, though I have not tried them myself. However, they use common ingredients that I have heard worked well from friends. Excited to pass along a few eco-friendly alternatives!
Recipes for DIY Make-Up Remover:
- This simple recipe uses a combination of castile soap and coconut oil
- A few additional homemade recipes from Byrdie (most require 3 ingredients are less)
Last year, I purchased a bottle of Dr. Bronner’s castile soap for cleaning. Since then, I have learned there are plenty more uses for it, including as a facial cleanser. So I was not surprised to hear other sources sharing of its use as a makeup remover as well.
THE FINAL VERDICT
The MakeUp Eraser is a fun product that I do recommend if you are looking to stop using disposable wipes. The price (around $20) is super affordable, considering the material can last a few years.
However, if you are trying to be more conscious of plastic (e.g. polyester), there are a ton of other affordable options out there that you can make on your own. If all you are missing is the cleaning fabric, you can also purchase reusable cotton rounds.
Again, no ‘right’ way to live sustainably. It all comes down to our effort, and acting upon what we know. I hope you found this guide helpful for your skincare routine! Please leave a comment below on your thoughts 🙂
I enjoyed reading this so much, Vianna! Thanks for sharing your experience with and research into this MakeUp Eraser! So intriguing…do you find that using just water with it removed all traces of makeup? I LOVE reading your posts 🙂 Keep them coming!
Aw thank you so much for reading! And yes, it works perfectly with just a bit of warm water. Crazy how well it works! Makes me happy that you found it insightful!