Best Face Wipes for Oily Skin: Why You Need a Special Kind

Face wipes are a type of beauty product that can offer a different experience for each person. Some people may instantly fall in love with facial wipes that contain natural ingredients like plant essences and are formulated to be hypoallergenic (non-irritating), while others might find them just average or not particularly useful.

This was also the case for a beauty product user who initially felt that face wipes were unnecessary. Before discovering Dickinson’s Witch Hazel Wipes—known for their refreshing effect—she believed that washing her face with soap and water, followed by moisturizer, was enough for proper skincare. In her routine, using facial wipes seemed like an extra step that didn’t really matter.

However, after trying the wipes, her perspective began to change. The product felt very refreshing and gave a clean, comfortable sensation, especially when used in specific situations, like after spending time outdoors.

Dermatologists’ Perspective on Facial Wipes

According to Dr. Maryam Zamani, a dermatologist, it’s not entirely wrong to think that washing your face with soap is more important than using facial wipes. She explains:

“Facial wipes should not be used as a replacement for thorough facial cleansing.”

In other words, while facial wipes can be helpful for quick cleaning, washing your face with water and a proper cleanser is still the recommended method for truly cleaning the skin.

Dr. Zamani also warns that most facial wipes contain ingredients such as makeup removers, mild detergents, alcohol, and other chemicals. If not rinsed off, these substances can remain on the skin’s surface and may cause irritation, dryness, or increase skin sensitivity.

When Can Facial Wipes Be Used?

Although facial wipes are not a substitute for proper facial cleansers, they still play an important role in certain situations.
Dr. Zamani explains that facial wipes can be very useful when you don’t have access to water and soap, such as:

• After a workout
• While traveling
• When exposed to heavy pollution, such as vehicle exhaust or smog
• When you need a quick refresh in the middle of a busy day

In these situations, facial wipes can help lift away makeup, dirt, and pollutants from the skin’s surface, while also providing an instant refreshing sensation.

Face Wipes for Oily Skin

For people with oily skin, choosing the right facial wipes is important. Oily skin needs wipes that not only clean the face but also help control excess oil without making the skin too dry.

A good facial tissue for oily skin should have the following features:

• Moisturizes without making the skin feel heavy
• Contains oil-controlling ingredients like witch hazel or tea tree oil
• Free from harsh alcohol that can trigger excess oil production
• Gentle on the skin and does not cause irritation

Using the wrong facial wipes can actually make the skin oilier, as the skin may feel dry and respond by producing more sebum as a natural protection.

7 Best Makeup Wipes for Oily Skin

RMS Beauty The Ultimate Makeup Remover Wipes

These facial wipes are from RMS Beauty, a natural beauty brand known for its clean, skin-friendly formulas. Each wipe is soaked in organic coconut oil, which has antibacterial properties and effectively cleans the face of dirt and makeup residue without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. Coconut oil is also known for being gentle, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

These wipes are also free from alcohol and artificial fragrances, two ingredients that often cause irritation or allergic reactions. According to dermatologist Dr. Maryam Zamani, this is important for maintaining the skin’s natural balance and preventing issues like dryness or excessive sensitivity.

However, the way you use the wipes is also important. Many people tend to rub their faces too harshly, especially around the eyes. The skin in this area is very delicate and easily damaged. If pulled or rubbed roughly, the skin can sag and fine lines can appear more quickly.

Therefore, use these wipes with gentle, slow movements. This way, you can achieve optimal cleansing without compromising the long-term health of your skin.

Yes To Cucumbers Facial Wipes

If you have oily skin and often struggle with acne, Dr. Maryam Zamani advises avoiding facial wipes altogether. She explains that facial wipes can actually worsen acne-prone skin.

“If you have oily or acne-prone skin, I recommend not using facial wipes at all because they can spread bacteria across your face,” says Dr. Zamani.

Frequent or improper use of wipes can spread bacteria to other areas, triggering inflammation and new breakouts. However, if you still want to use facial wipes for convenience, look for products that contain salicylic acid.

One recommended option is the drugstore brand Yes To, known for being budget-friendly yet effective. These facial wipes not only help cleanse and soothe the skin but also contain salicylic acid—an active ingredient that penetrates pores, reduces excess oil, and fights acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.

By choosing the right facial wipes and using them wisely, you can keep your skin clean without worsening acne.

Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes

Honest Beauty, the beauty brand owned by actress Jessica Alba, is known for its commitment to safe, natural, and skin-friendly products. One of its standout products is the soft facial wipe, specially designed to cleanse without irritating the skin. These wipes are free from alcohol and artificial fragrances, two common irritants, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Another advantage is the hypoallergenic formula, which means the wipes are designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Additionally, the wipes have a balanced pH, which is crucial for keeping the skin’s natural protective layer healthy. These wipes are also entirely vegan, making them a great choice for those concerned about sustainability and avoiding animal-derived ingredients.

The wipes are highly versatile and suitable for various situations—whether you’re in a rush, want to refresh your face midday, or need to clean your face after a workout. One user even mentioned that she alternates between these wipes and witch hazel wipes, always keeping them in her gym bag for their gentle yet effective ability to remove sweat and dirt.

With all these benefits, Honest Beauty facial wipes are a practical, gentle, and eco-friendly cleansing solution—ideal for anyone looking for a safe, everyday product that’s also comfortable to use.

Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes

Josee Leduc, a professional makeup artist, is a loyal fan of these classic facial wipes. While simple, these wipes have qualities that make them a favorite among professionals: their natural ingredients.

According to Leduc, one of the most important factors in choosing skincare products, including facial wipes, is the ingredient list. She emphasizes paying close attention to what’s in the product, as too many synthetic ingredients can harm the skin. Her approach to skincare is similar to how she chooses food: it must be clear, clean, and natural.

Leduc especially likes facial wipes that contain grapefruit extract, lemongrass extract, tea tree oil, and witch hazel. These ingredients are known for their great benefits to the skin, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin:

• Grapefruit extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it helps brighten the skin and fight free radicals.
• Lemongrass extract: Has antibacterial properties and soothes irritation.
• Tea tree oil: Famous for ts antimicrobial properties, it effectively fights acne-causing bacteria.
• Witch hazel: Helps shrink pores and control excess oil.

Facial wipes with these natural ingredients can be a smart and safe choice, especially if you want to keep your skin clean, fresh, and free from excessive chemicals.

Blum Naturals Daily Combination/Oily Skin Towelettes, Tea Tree Oil

Daniela Gozlan, a makeup artist from the renowned agency Honey Artists, recommends these facial wipes as the best choice for oily skin. She mentions that these wipes contain tea tree oil, a natural ingredient known for its effectiveness in treating oily and acne-prone skin.

According to Gozlan, tea tree oil penetrates the pores and dissolves excess oil that can clog them and cause acne. In addition to thoroughly cleansing, this ingredient helps keep pores clean, preventing the formation of blackheads and new breakouts.

Not only is it effective, but these wipes also provide a refreshing and gentle sensation on the skin after use—making them perfect for anytime, especially after outdoor activities or workouts. For those with oily skin, these facial wipes can be a practical solution to control sebum, maintain face cleanliness, and care for the skin gently.

Kaia Naturals The Vitamin Cleanse Wipes

Although Joanna Vargas, a renowned facialist who treats many celebrities, admits she’s not a big fan of facial wipes—because these products often don’t clean thoroughly and leave residue—she has one exception that she recommends: Kaia Naturals Juicy Bamboo Face Wipes.

According to Vargas, these wipes are different from most others. Kaia Naturals Juicy Bamboo is made with natural ingredients, is biodegradable (environmentally friendly), and is also cruelty-free, meaning it’s not tested on animals. For users who care about sustainability and ethics in skincare, this is a major plus.

These wipes are enriched with vitamin E and C, amino acids, and honey. This combination provides dual benefits:

• Vitamin E and C act as antioxidants, helping protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
• Amino acids help strengthen and repair the skin’s layer.
• Honey provides moisturizing and soothing effects, making it ideal for all skin types, especially dry or sensitive skin.

In addition to the rich nutritional content, Vargas emphasizes that these wipes don’t leave much residue on the skin—one of the main reasons she usually avoids facial wipes. This product is also effective at gently removing makeup without causing irritation.

With its natural ingredients and gentle yet effective performance, Kaia’s facial wipes offer a practical solution that also nourishes the skin, perfect for travel or when you don’t have time for a full cleansing routine.

Ole Henriksen So Nurturing Cleansing Cloths

Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, founder of Capital Laser & Skin Care and clinical assistant professor in dermatology at George Washington University, emphasizes that thorough cleansing with a traditional cleanser remains the most important step at night. According to her, facial wipes should not replace the main cleanser but should only be used as a supplement, such as to remove stubborn makeup residue or simply to refresh the skin when needed.

Dr. Tanzi also stresses the importance of choosing facial wipes specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Products like these usually contain gentler chemicals and carry a lower risk of irritation, making them safer to use, especially for skin that is prone to reactions.

One product she recommends is So Nurturing Cleansing Cloths by Ole Henriksen. These wipes are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Their strength lies in the formula, which not only cleanses but also hydrates and soothes the skin, thanks to the inclusion of gentle, nourishing ingredients.

With its safe, multifunctional formula, these facial wipes are an ideal choice for use while traveling, after a workout, or when you want to refresh your skin in the middle of the day—without worrying about dryness or irritation. However, keep in mind that facial wipes should still be considered a supplement, not a replacement for a thorough cleansing routine at night.