Be honest—after a long day, do you grab a makeup wipe, swipe once, and call it a night? Same here. But dermatologists say this seemingly harmless habit does more harm than good: wipes only move makeup, oil and dirt around instead of lifting them away, leaving residue that can cause acne or irritation. Plus, friction and harsh ingredients in wipes can damage your skin barrier over time, making it sensitive.

Wipes are okay as a first step (like when you’re stuck without a sink), but never the final cleanse. Try dermatologist-approved alternatives like gentle cleansing balms or micellar water instead. Do you use makeup wipes nightly? Have you noticed skin issues? Share your go-to hack!