Johnson's Make Up Be Gone Refreshing Face Wipes

RRP: £2.50 for 25

--What does the promo say?--
"Provides skin with an instant fresh look and feel, removing waterproof mascara.

Dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive and normal skin types. Contains skin loving minerals and no alcohol.

A blissful cleansing experience."

--Packaging--

The pink and dark blue combination is calming yet authoritative. The peel-back opening allows easy access to the wipes, while sealing securely, meaning the wipes don't dry out.

--Usage--

Sweep over makeup to remove. Can also be used to refresh makeup-free skin.

--Appearance--

The white wipes are soaked in an invisible lotion that leaves no traces on the skin.

--Scent--

Clean and powdery without being overbearing or clinical.

--Texture and consistency--

The wipes themselves are sufficiently strong without irritating skin; equally, the lotion soothes while effectively removing makeup. 

--Effects on the skin--

Makeup is removed effectively (bar some stubborn mascaras, of which some traces still remain come morning) and skin feels moisturised too.

--Value for money--

Face wipes flood the market, meaning you can access a full range of packs of 25 wipes for diverse prices, from under £1 if you choose a shop's own brand to £3+ if you choose a more luxurious make, such as Body Shop or L'Oréal. However, for me these do the job: they remove makeup without stripping skin of its natural oils, and stay moist for months, making them the perfect travel companion.

perfect partners

Refreshing Cleansing Lotion, £4.99

Refreshing Gel Wash, £1.87

Clean and Clear Deep Action Facial Wipes

RRP: £3.79 for 25 wipes

--What does the promo say?--
"Each wipe gives you an unmistakable tingling sensation that tells you your skin is being thoroughly cleansed and in one easy wipe leaves it feeling cool, refreshed and clear."

--Packaging--
The blue and green colour scheme emphasises the menthol included in the wipes, as well as being quite unisex. The protective sticker also reseals effectively, meaning there's no risk of the wipes drying out (unlike, arguably, the cheaper packets of wipes).

--Usage--
Wipe over face to remove all traces of makeup and dirt. I often fold mine over once I have wiped using one side, and then keep folding and wiping until I've used as much of the wipe as possible.

--Appearance--
The white wipe is soaked in clear fluid that leaves no visible residue on the face.

--Scent--
The menthol included is definitely detectable, which I personally like.

--Texture and consistency--
The wipes are made of strong, sturdy material, which means not only that your face feels really clean after use, but also that it doesn't tear or stretch during use, which again, can be a problem with some cheaper wipes.

--Effects on the skin--
Thanks to the menthol, skin feels really cool and refreshed in the immediate moments during and after use. Furthermore, the inclusion of salicylic acid means skin condition is also improved in the longer term. Nevertheless, the use of a separate cleanser and moisturiser is still recommended, as there's always a risk that wipes will not remove *all* dirt and makeup, and these particular wipes do not contain a specific moisturising agent, so it's important to keep your skin balanced as well.

--Value for money--
While these may be slightly more expensive than some other wipes on the market, these are still affordable and high quality, and most refreshing to use, while cleaning your skin. Great for travel - or even just those nights when I can't be bothered. Clean & Clear's PR sent mine for free, but I'd still fork out.

perfect partners
Oil Control Cream Wash, £4.99
Dual Action Moisturiser, £3.25

Tesco Cucumber Facial Wipes

RRP: £1 for 25 wipes

--What does the promo say?--

"Tesco cleansing wipes facial have been enriched with soothing cucumber and aloe vera. They have been specially formulated to gently ease away make-up (including water-proof make-up), cleanse, tone and moisturise, without upsetting the skin’s delicate balance."

--Packaging--

The white and green colour scheme is clean and unisex, with the circles evoking the cucumber inclusion perfectly.

--Usage--

Sweep over face to either remove makeup or freshen up on the go. Alternatively, they could replace your usual cleanser - particularly useful if travelling on hand baggage only this summer and not wanting to encumber your suitcase with liquids.

--Appearance--

The wipes are white and leave no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--

The cucumber aspect is definitely there without being overpowering.

--Texture and consistency--

The wipes are sufficiently abrasive to remove makeup or excess oil without being abrasive. Equally, they are soft without being ineffectual.

--Effects on the skin--

Seems to cleanse well, getting rid of dirt accumulated throughout the day. However, for makeup you might need 2 wipes depending on how thick your foundation is, if you use primers or not, and so on. For me, 1 wipe was not always enough.

--Value for money--

While not perfect, at £1 per pack these are excellent value, refresh the face, and are perfect for travel.

perfect partners

Cucumber Facial Wash, £1.50

Cucumber Softening Daily Moisturiser, £1.00

Cucumber Toner, £1.50

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleansing Wipes

RRP: £3.99

--What does the promo say?--
"Introducing NEW Neutrogena Visibly Clear® Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleansing Wipes, specially formulated to help prevent blemishes.

Each ultra-soft wipe clears dirt, excess oil and make-up to help to prevent breakouts without overdrying skin. The invigorating pink grapefruit fragrance uplifts the senses and gives skin a burst of freshness."

--Packaging--

The bright pink colour is uplifting and unusual, and the resealable flap closes securely for travel, even when the pack has been open for a while.

--Application--

Sweep over face to remove makeup, and then again to cleanse. One wipe is sufficient for both of these actions.

--Appearance--

The white wipe unfolds when you have extracted it from the packet, and is soaked in a transparent liquid solution that helps to dissolve makeup and clean off any excess dirt and oil. No visible residue is left on the skin.

--Scent--

A zesty pink grapefruit that acts as a real pick-me-up.

--Texture and consistency--

The wipes are sufficiently robust to remove both makeup and excess grime, and even when used thoroughly on both sides, they do not tear or stretch. Result.

--Effects on the skin--

Skin is not only thoroughly cleaned but looks calm and feels nicely refreshed as well as moisturised - so have no fear of these being too abrasive or stripping the skin of natural oils (which we all need to a certain degree!). Over time, an improvement in overall skin condition (i.e. reduction in spots) can also be noticed.

--Value for money--

At £3.99 these hardly break the bank, and some retailers regularly have special offers on Neutrogena too (such as buy one, get one free) to increase value further. Not only are they inexpensive, but they are also convenient, work well, and add that extra zing to your skincare routine. Brilliant.

perfect partners (click the links for reviews!)

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub, £4.69

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Facial Wash, £4.69

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Moisturiser, £4.99

Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Cream Wash, £4.89

Natracare Organic Makeup Removal Wipes

RRP: £3.99 for 20

--What does the promo say?--
"Rule number one of a good skincare regime is to cleanse the skin properly, removing all make-up and grime. The last thing you want is a product that could be putting more on to your skin than it is taking off. Unlike conventional wipes, we use only the best organic and natural ingredients, making them incredibly gentle on your skin. Infused with the organic essential oils of almond, apricot and chamomile, Natracare Cleansing Make-Up Removal Wipes leave your skin moisturised, cleansed and refreshed naturally. The soft and strong organic cotton cloth is gentle but effective, removing even waterproof mascara and lipstick. Formulated for sensitive skin, the wipes are dermatologically and opthalmologically tested and free from all the types of ingredients women have ever been concerned about putting on their skin."

--Packaging--
The blue, purple and white colour combination of the plastic pouch is refreshing and feminine. Furthermore, the pouch opens and closes securely throughout the product lifespan, not losing stickiness at all as time passes.

--Usage--
Sweep one wipe over face and neck to remove makeup, using both sides of the wipe to ensure thorough makeup removal.

--Appearance--
The wipes are white, and the lotion they are soaked in is invisible, meaning minimum fuss.

--Scent--
An overriding citrus scent thanks to the oranges, lemons and bergamot, which adds to the wipes' refreshing character.

--Texture and consistency--
The organic cotton wipes are smooth and non-irritating, yet have enough of a slightly raised texture to gently scrub skin, enabling makeup removal.

--Effects on the skin--
Removes makeup just as well as any conventional makeup removal wipe I've tried, and maybe even better - it even does a great job on mascara.

--Value for money--
At £3.99 for 20 wipes, it therefore comes to around 20p per wipe, which is about standard (and even more commendable given the high-quality, organic provenance of these wipes' ingredients, as well as their robust packaging). It also competes favourably price-wise with high street brands (Boots, Simple, Soap & Glory, Clearasil and L'Oréal all charge about the same, for example). This product's only weak point is perhaps its lack of availability: with its main suppliers being online, you have to put in a little more effort to seek it out. Nevertheless, despite being sent mine for free this time, I would still spend my money on them in future. A great product that truly sets an example to others in terms of both quality and ethics.

Dr Organic Aloe Vera Wet Wipes

 RRP: £2.89 for 20 wipes

--What does the promo say?--
"A convenient way to remove make up, freshen up and maintain healthy skin. This 2 in 1 cleansing wipe combines the soothing properties of aloe vera in a refreshing wipe."

--Packaging--
The green and white colour scheme is bold and refreshing if unoriginal; it nonetheless also accurately reflects the ingredients used in the product. The sticky-back plastic window, which you peel back from the top of the pack to access the wipes, opens and closes easily and keeps the wipes fresh. In addition, the small pack size (20 wipes) means that this little bundle slips easily into handbags or hand baggage without being at all cumbersome.

--Application--
Wipe over the whole face, either to remove makeup, or to simply cleanse the face. Easy as.

--Appearance--
The white wipes are saturated with invisible cleansing lotion that leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Natural aloe vera smell as promised; nothing chemical, clinical or harsh about this.

--Texture--
The wipes are rough enough to cleanse well and smooth enough to remain gentle; however, I'd say that as holes appear in the wipes while you are using them, they are perhaps of slightly less high quality than others on the market (in this respect I preferred the Australian Bodycare wipes that I tested recently).

--Effects on the skin--
Skin feels cleansed, smoothed, soothed, and refreshed. Perfect for travel, summer, or just those nights when you CBA to wash your face properly.

--Longevity--
While one wipe will remove your makeup without trace and cleanse your face too, the pack still seems to run out rather quickly. Still, with 20 wipes in a pack, it'll happily do you for a long weekend or even a full week's break.

--Value for money--
These are inexpensive, cleanse and remove makeup well, and give you peace of mind thanks to the organic ingredients. Don't expect durability or for a pack to cover your whole summer holiday, though! Nevertheless, once my free pack runs out (thanks, Dr Organic PR!), I would consider repurchasing.

perfect partners
Aloe Vera Deodorant, £5.49
Aloe Vera Gel, £5.39
Aloe Vera Body Wash, £5.39
Aloe Vera Hand Wash, £5.19
Aloe Vera Lip Balm, £3.49
Aloe Vera Soap, £2.99
Aloe Vera Skin Lotion, £6.59
Aloe Vera Body Butter, £9.29
Aloe Vera Shampoo, £5.49
Aloe Vera Conditioner, £5.49
Aloe Vera Eye Gel, £9.29
Aloe Vera Travel Pack, £15

Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil Wet Wipes

RRP: £3.25 for 24 wipes

--What does the promo say?--
"The New Handy Pack Wipes by the Australian Bodycare Spa Range contain 24 wet wipes suitable for use anywhere. Formulated with 1% Tea Tree Oil, which works as a natural antiseptic, these wipes cleanse the skin and removes bacteria from surfaces. Effective and convenient, they're suitable for all the family."

--Packaging--
The white, blue and green colour scheme clearly identifies this product as being part of the Australian Bodycare range, and is also nicely unisex, allowing the product to appeal to a wide range of potential users. The peel-back opening and closing window is convenient, hygienic and practical, and the pack of 24 wipes is not too cumbersome to take in your suitcase, keep in the glove box, or carry in your handbag.

 --Application--
The use of this product is both easy and versatile. Simply sweep across skin to remove makeup, cleanse, or disinfect. Could also be used to clean surfaces or as part of a baby's nappy-changing routine. Their generous surface area means that one wipe should also be enough for one complete use, with room to spare.

--Appearance--
The wipes are white and are pre-soaked with an invisible lotion that leaves no residue. They are also generously sized.

--Scent--
A unisex, natural, clean smell of pine, aloe and tea tree makes this suitable for the vast majority of people and situations.

--Texture and consistency--
The wipes have enough texture to make you feel like you are cleaning effectively, without being irritating or rough. Furthermore, the lotion in which the wipes are soaked is smooth without being too thick or overbearing.

--Effects on the skin--
These cleanse and remove makeup effectively, and their tea tree oil content means that over time conditions such as acne could potentially improve with long-term use.

--Value for money--
£3.25 for 24 wipes comes to about 13p per wipe. While perhaps a little on the expensive side, their overall reasonable price, anti-bacterial qualities and wide range of possible uses make them worth it, in my view.

perfect partners
Australian Bodycare Spa Range Facial Cleansing Gel (250ml) , £10.90
Happy Hands Antibacterial Instant Waterless Hand Gel (50ml), £5.00
Australian Bodycare Spa Range Gentle Toner (250ml), £7.92

Soap and Glory Off Your Face Cleansing Cloths

RRP: £4.50/25 wipes

--What does the promo say?—

"Soap & Glory Off Your Face™ contains 25 cloths in a handy resealable fliptop lid pouch. With a mix of skin softening glycerin, quick cleansing agent and PORESHRINK-RS, Soap & Glory Off Your Face Cleansing Cloths are your quickest route to clean." 

--Packaging—

The pink and white design featuring the Soap and Glory logo means this packet of wipes wouldn’t be out of place in a candy floss factory, and doesn’t give a terribly modern impression. And yet retro is ‘in’, so it somehow works. The peel-back lid is supplemented by a plastic outer casing that cleverly clicks closed. However, this doesn’t quite keep the wipes as moist as you would hope for. Perhaps it's thanks to this that it's recently been replaced by a more tightly sealing peel-back lid, with the plastic outer casing having been ditched.

--Application—

Wipe over face to remove makeup, and/or to cleanse. Easy as pie.

--Appearance—

The wipes are white, and the fluid they are soaked with is clear, which means no visible residue is left on the face. The wipes also have a slightly raised pattern on them to help with exfoliation.

--Scent—

A very clear, cotton-style scent. Not too perfumed or artificial.

--Texture—

As mentioned, the raised texture of the wipes is excellent for exfoliation, without being abrasive or irritating. The cloths are ultimately smooth, satisfying and effective.

--Effects on the skin—

In the short-term, makeup is removed, skin is exfoliated, and the face feels really clean and smooth, as if you’ve just been for a really expensive facial. Longer-term, it’s possible that I did see an improvement in my skin condition, noting slightly more radiance and calmness; however, as I was only using the wipes on an intermittent basis, this judgement may be slightly skewed.

--Value for money—

 At £4.50, this seems on par with other wipes, and given the results you get, it seems good value for money - especially at a price that's equivalent to 18p a wipe. Their multiple function also makes them perfect for travel: one pack of these means you don't need to take any separate bottles of makeup remover, cleanser, toner, moisturiser, or exfoliator. But sadly for me they don't go any further than a travel solution: with 25 wipes in a pack, and me using 2 wipes a day, one pack wouldn't last me any more than 2 weeks - and £9 a month seems to be a bit much to spend on a regular basis. However, this product did give me an excellent impression of the Soap and Glory brand, and it's even better value when bought as part of a gift pack. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend to friends.

perfect partners

No Clogs Allowed Deep Pore Detox Mask, £11

Scrub Your Nose In It Face Scrub and Mask, £7.40

The Fab Pore 15 Minute Facial Peel, £8

Clear Here 25 Cleansing Cloths, £4.50 

Dr Spot Invisible Spot Fighting Gel, £8 

Kleenex Eye Make-Up Removal Wipes Sensitive

RRP: £2.99 for 24

--What does the promo say?--

"Gently and effectively removes eye make-up including waterproof mascara. Made with ecoform natural fibres; lower environmental impact than standard wipe material."

--Packaging--

A slender 'roll' with a sticky peel-back opening that's easy to open and close and protects the wipes well. Wipes don't dry out at all inside the roll, and the image of a masquerade mask gives a distinctly female impression (even though other products in this range, such as the cotton cloths, are equally likely to be used by men). I also love how the ingredients' purposes are explained on the back, in brackets next to the scientific terms. All companies should do this! In short, good-looking, user-friendly, and functional.

--Usage--

Wipe over eyes (or indeed whole face, although they are perhaps a tad small for this) to remove makeup. Simple.

--Appearance--

White wipes that glisten slightly with makeup remover. Makeup remover itself is invisible on the face, leaving no residue.

--Scent--

Like clean washing; not at all chemical or clinical.

--Texture and consistency--

Face feels smoother and calmer after use, and while you could get away with not using moisturiser afterwards, you would probably prefer to use one.

--Effectiveness--

Definitely removes makeup brilliantly without you have to rub too hard or irritate your skin or eyes. Yes, even waterproof mascara as promised! No complaints.

--Value for money--

I don't buy wipes in general as I feel traditional makeup remover represents superior value for money. However, I do take wipes on holiday with me, and would definitely use these again: they're effective, inexpensive, and from a brand you can trust. Could not ask for more; Kleenex is to be applauded for making this (albeit totally natural) move so successfully.

perfect partners

Extra Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes, £2.99 for 24

Cotton Touch Facial Cloths, £1.99 for 30

Shine Absorbing Sheets, £2.99 for 50

Kleenex Extra Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes

RRP: £2.99 for 24

--What does the promo say?--

"These soft, quilted wipes contain natural fibres and provide a gentle and effective cleanse, removing your "mask" at the end of the day. They are suitable even for sensitive skin. You can also feel good about using them as they have a lower environmental impact than a standard wipe material."

--Packaging--

Standard face wipe size pack with standard peely-back opening. Everything works as it should: the peel-back opens and closes correctly and wipes don't dry out inside the pack. The purple mask is also a beautiful illustration that appeals to me, and as mentioned in my other Kleenex reviews, I love the fact that Kleenex explains on the pack why they have used every single ingredient in a way that's concise and understandable.

--Usage--

Wipe across face to cleanse; can also be used to remove makeup.

--Appearance--

A plain white wipe whose cleansing liquid cannot be seen either on the wipe or on the face. Nonetheless, it does its job.

--Scent--

A clean, refreshing, unisex smell.

--Texture and consistency--

Moist without being sticky or overly wet.

--Effects on the skin--

Makes your skin feel really clean, although you'll probably still want to use moisturiser afterwards. It also removes makeup really effectively despite not claiming to be able to do this. Feel the multitasking love.

--Value for money--

The price is right for a strong, user-friendly and environmentally friendly product that really works. Brava!

perfect partners

Sensitive Eye Makeup Removal Wipes, £2.99 for 24

Cotton Touch Facial Cloths, £1.99 for 30

Shine Absorbing Sheets, £2.99 for 50

Kleenex Cotton Touch Facial Cloths

RRP: £1.99 for 30

--What does the promo say?--

"These gentle, cotton sheets are not only larger but softer, and are designed to be more effective at cleansing than cotton wool due to their quilted texture and natural fibres. They are soft and strong when wet or dry, so you can use them not only while applying cleanser and toner, but also while removing facemasks and even nail varnish."

--Packaging--

Not as robust as the packaging used for the wipes and blotting sheets: this cardboard box was falling apart by the time it reached me in France (although to be fair, I suspect that this was La Poste's fault, and not Kleenex's). Nonetheless, the setup seems both handy (with openings on various sides for easy access) and attractive (with the same masquerade mask theme being used here as on other products).

--Usage--

As mentioned in the promotional material, this is a very multi-functional product. I used them to remove makeup by soaking them in my usual makeup remover, and my husband and I both used them to apply toner after cleansing. However, the notion of being able to use them to remove cleansers, face masks and nail varnish is equally believable.

--Appearance--

Each cloth looks like a very thick standard white tissue that's folded over a couple of times. In short, it's not quite a tissue, flannel or wipe, but something in between. 

--Scent--

None...it is basically a tissue, after all.

--Texture and consistency--

Soft, thick and luxurious; not at all irritating. They hold liquids well without absorbing them so quickly that they're gone before you're able to get them to your face. In short, perfect for the purpose.

--Effects on the skin--

The cloths perform multiple tasks without irritating skin in the least. However, they are passive facilitators rather than active agents, so don't have an effect on the skin per se in the way that the wipes in the same range do.

--Value for money--

May seem initially expensive, but are so soft, strong and large that they can be used not only for loads of things but also over a day or two if you desire (use one side for toner in the morning and evening, then the other edge for makeup removal at night for instance). So even though you only get 30 in a pack, you could easily make it last more than 30 days. Would definitely consider buying again.

perfect partners

Extra Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes, £2.99 for 24

Sensitive Eye Makeup Removal Wipes, £2.99 for 24

Shine Absorbing Sheets, £2.99 for 50

No7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes

RRP: £6.50

--What does the promo say?--
"Speedy Skincare with No7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes. Be good to your skin, even when you're short of time with these gentle, fragrance-free wipes. Specially created for your busiest days, they sweep away impurities, tone your skin, remove waterproof eye make-up and moisturise, quick as a flash. With pro vitamin B5 to moisturise and soften, plus natural extracts of witch hazel and fennel to clear pores and leave your skin feeling smooth and fresh. Fragrance free and hypo-allergenic. This product is best used in conjunction with any No7 Moisturiser."

--Packaging--
A cool blue, nicely sized rectangular plastic package with a white lid made from hard plastic. The white lid bears the No7 logo and product information in black and gold, so all very simplistic and in keeping with the No7 brand. You then lift the lid and peel back the protective film to reach the face wipes. The lid seems unnecessary: I didn't find it kept the wipes any more moist than usual and I'm sure that given the extra materials used it must drive the price up, so I'm not really too impressed with that.

--Usage--
Take out one wipe from the packet, close the lid, and sweep over your face, neck and eyelids to wipe away impurities and remove makeup. This product claims to cleanse, tone, moisturise and remove makeup simultaneously, so you shouldn't need to do anything else before or after. I'd only recommend moisturising afterwards as the Boots website tells you to if you have really dry skin.

--Scent--
The scent was just really clean and clear. Reminded me of freshly laundered towels.

--How does it feel on the skin?--
The wipes are cool and refreshing and the stuff they're soaked in isn't at all harsh or abrasive.

--Does it do what it says it will?/How does your skin feel afterwards?--
It removes makeup perfectly and you really feel like your face has been cleansed, toned and moisturised. Your face feels clean and smooth and it really gets rid of excess sweat after a workout too. The only thing I didn't notice was any improvement in my skin, which was slightly surprising given the presence of witch hazel in the product.

--Value for money--
While this product was pleasant to use, it's a LOT more than I would normally spend on face wipes. You only get 25 wipes or so in the pack and that's not really very much for the money paid. One good thing this product did was introduce me to the concept of 4-in-1 wipes, and I will definitely be on the lookout for other 4-in-1 wipes that do the same thing just as well for a nicer price.

perfect partners
No7 Smooth and Soothed Gentle Cleanser, £7
No7 Beautifully Balanced Purifying Toner, £7
No7 Intelligent Balance Day Fluid, £9.25
No7 Intelligent Balance Night Fluid, £9.25