I love pretty clothes, fragrant candles, and a good makeup routine. Staying a girly-girl in a house full of men and boys is a challenge I happily accept. I’m selective about what I put on my skin — it doesn’t have to be expensive, but it must be gentle. After I stopped using shampoo a few years ago, my skin improved and became more reactive to irritating products. I couldn’t find any commercial makeup removers or wipes that didn’t either a) dry my skin until it itched, b) leave an oily film that caused breakouts, c) trigger redness or rashes, or d) require a full face wash afterward. I’d been using Cetaphil to remove makeup, but sometimes soap alone wasn’t enough to remove stubborn mascara and waterproof products.
Because I’d made baby wipes for our sensitive-skinned children, I adapted that idea to make my own makeup-removal towelettes. I start with Viva paper towels — specifically the regular Viva roll. These towels are sturdy and soft, closer to cloth than the typical paper towel, and they hold liquid without falling apart. They’re strong enough to remove makeup or clean a baby’s bottom without shredding.
Viva makes two varieties; I prefer the regular soft rolls rather than the Vantage version, which feels a bit scratchy and isn’t as durable. The regular rolls don’t come in select-a-size, so I cut the roll lengthwise to create narrower sheets. A sharp serrated knife works well; if you have someone handy with tools, ask for help to make the cut neat and safe.
After cutting the roll in half lengthwise, remove the wrapper from one half and slide it over the exposed end of the other half to keep it clean. I tear off about 14 sheets, fold them in half, and set them aside. Wrap the remaining towel roll in a zipper bag or plastic wrap to protect it until next time.
In a small, tight-lidded container, combine alcohol-free witch hazel (important because alcohol stings the eyes), pure aloe vera (not a thick green gel), a few drops of lavender essential oil, and a drop or two of liquid Castile soap. Swirl the mixture gently.
Place the folded half-sheets into the container, seal it, and invert for about five minutes so the liquid saturates the stack. Flip it back upright and your wipes are ready.
They remove mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, foundation, blush, and lipstick effectively without drying or irritating my skin. Here are a few notes on the ingredients and method:
Some notes on why and how:
- Witch hazel: Use an alcohol-free version. It helps balance the skin and can be suitable for acne-prone, dry, and oily skin types. Alcohol-containing formulas sting and can be harsh, especially near the eyes.
- Aloe vera: Choose 100% pure aloe vera rather than inexpensive thickened gels with dyes and additives. Pure aloe soothes and hydrates without unnecessary ingredients.
- Liquid Castile soap: A small amount of gentle liquid soap provides cleansing power without stripping. Pure Castile formulas are typically free of harsh ingredients and are well tolerated by sensitive skin when used sparingly.
- Lavender essential oil: Lavender oil has mild antibacterial and antifungal properties and adds a pleasant scent. Use a small amount to help preserve the wipes and improve the fragrance.
- Batch size and shelf life: Making about 14 wipes at a time limits the risk of bacterial growth. Fresh batches every 10–14 days (depending on usage) keeps them safe and effective. It’s quick to prepare a new batch, and the convenience is worth the effort.
Do you have any favorite DIY beauty tips to share?
Ingredients:
1/2 cup alcohol-free witch hazel
1/8 cup 100% pure aloe vera
5 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops liquid Castile soap
15 half sheets Viva paper towels, folded in half lengthwise
Instructions:
Combine the witch hazel, aloe vera, lavender essential oil, and liquid Castile soap in a container with a tight-fitting lid. Swirl gently to combine. Place the stack of folded paper towels into the container, seal it, invert for several minutes so the liquid soaks the sheets, then return it upright. Use within 14 days.
This was originally posted as part of a personal challenge to write daily for a month. It’s a simple, effective DIY that worked well for my sensitive skin.