Makeup wipes contain high concentrations of solublizers, surfactants, and emulsifiers, and many contain alcohol to thoroughly cut through thick foundations, which also removes the skin's natural oils and dries out the surface.
Cleansing lotions in makeup wipes are typically mild, meaning clients use a considerable amount of rubbing to get stubborn eye makeup off, which can irritate and prematurely age the delicate eye area. Clients should leave the makeup wipe on the eye for several seconds prior to wiping to make it easier to remove.
In some situations, using a makeup wipe is unavoidable when the alternative is not washing the face at all – like when traveling, camping, or at the gym – and using one is better than nothing. If this is the case, professionals should tell their clients to be sure to cleanse their face as soon as possible, and to follow up with a moisturizer.