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A pack of cotton pads is a must-have in every beauty stash, whether your aim is to remove makeup or make your own DIY sheet mask. The shape of cotton pads, either round or square, is also a factor depending on your purpose. Aside from usual disposable ones, there are also reusable cotton pads that are environmentally friendly. If you have sensitive skin, organic pads are gentle on your skin.
With the numerous products available, you might be presented with a lot of different options when you search for "cotton pads" on your favorite E-commerce site. Worry not, as we've done all the work for you! Below is a top 10 list that includes cotton pads from Muji, Klairs, and Cleene, as well as Moby, which is suitable for babies. Further down, we also provided a comprehensive buying guide, with comments from dermatologist Dr. Katrina, to narrow down your choices.
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
When looking for cotton pads, you’d want them to glide smoothly, softly, and comfortably, on your face. Hence, you need to inspect the material. If you’re browsing online, check the available images on the product listing as well as the reviews from customers to get an idea of the quality and finish. Pure cotton pads and organic ones are preferred by most users.
Cotton pads that retain their shape even when you swipe it on your face or body are preferred. Plus, it should also be able to absorb just the right amount to prevent wastage. This is so that most of the toner or skincare solution that you pour ends up on your skin and is not just absorbed by the cotton pad.
People usually have mixed opinions about cotton pads. To use or not to use?
Some claim that cotton pads are more hygienic for applying skin-care products vs our bare hands. Not to mention, they help wipe away residue and even allow even application of the product. On the other spectrum, some claim that cotton pads are wasteful, and are too harsh for sensitive skin.
Now, what to do? Your best bet is to consult your dermatologist so that he/she can help you identify your skin needs and whether a cotton pad will work for you or not.
Although cotton pads are multifunctional, their shape is a factor in determining how they are best used. Cotton pads mostly come in either rounds or squares. Each variant has a specific purpose, with the former is for removing makeup, while the latter suitable for removing nail polish and making sheet masks.
Cotton rounds have several purposes but they are mostly known for removing makeup. They usually have seams along the sides to make them more durable. The round shape is perfect for the face due to the lack of sharp edges, preventing any accidental nicks. The round shape is perfect when you are in the process of exfoliation and do repetitive circular motions to take away dirt and grime.
Cotton squares are generally larger compared to round pads. Thus, they are suitable as makeshift sheet masks. You may pull apart a cotton square from its sides to create a larger mask so it can cover a wide area of your face. Furthermore, the straight and pointy corners and edges are practical to reach narrow crevices when you are removing nail polish.
Cotton pads can be 0.23 to 0.33 cm thick. If the exact number isn’t stated, read the description or reviews regarding its relative thickness. Thin pads are soft and gentle, while thicker ones don't break easily as you remove makeup and nail polish. A cotton pad should have the right thickness so that it is able to hold its shape even when you swipe it on your face or body multiple times.
Round cotton pads usually have a diameter of 5 to 7 cm, enough to cover a certain part of your face or body. This figure can go up to 8 to 10 cm for square or rectangular cotton pads. For daily use, smaller cotton pads are a perfect size. On the other hand, choose a bigger one if you’d like to cover a wider surface area or when you intend to make your own sheet mask.
Definitely, in terms of the size of the cotton pad, this one can be based on your preference.
Cotton pads can either have a plain or textured surface. The more common plain variant is your all-around cotton pad. These multi-purpose pads can be used to remove your makeup and nail polish, apply your skincare products, or even as a first-aid remedyーit's that versatile!
Meanwhile, for a deeper clean, choose textured cotton pads. The embossed grooves on the pads effectively remove dirt, grime, oil, and makeup on your face, thanks to the slight friction. These qualities make them great for exfoliation and give a bit of a massage to relax your skin.
As simple as cotton pads may seem to be, even they aren't created equal. Mind you, cotton pads act as an additional physical exfoliant. Therefore, the more textured the cotton pad's surface is, the more exfoliating ability it would possess. Thus, you should select the type of cotton pad based on your skin type and skin needs.
If you’re traveling a lot, disposable cotton pads are advantageous because you don’t need to worry about washing and drying. Just pull one out from your pouch or container and you’re good to go. Single-use pads are indeed budget-friendly but they produce a concerning volume of waste over time.
Reusable cotton pads are a good choice for skincare enthusiasts who want to reduce waste. They are convenient to use at home because you can wash them immediately after. Initially, these often cost more but in the long run, you will save both money and the environment because they can be reused for years, thus, your supply will not run out.
The choice between disposable or reusable cotton pads is primarily based on one's lifestyle and preferences with regard to contributing to the planet's waste. But keep in mind that the materials used for each is different! So they may have different effects on the skin as well.
Ladies and gents, you probably know that purchasing cosmetic products can cost a fortune, and it is for a reason. You’re paying for quality since you put it on your skin. The same goes for cotton pads. Scrimping on your cotton pads can result in breakouts, earning you a costly trip to the derma.
To keep your skin smooth and blemish-free, it’s best to purchase cotton pads from trustworthy brands. Better yet, look for brands that specialize in manufacturing cotton products or other skincare essentials. Customer reviews are also important when you are selecting between well-known brands.
Getting your skincare products and skincare tools from reliable suppliers is always advisable. After all, your skin deserves the proper, tender loving care it needs.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Muji Cotton Pads Ecru | ₱155 Mid | Thick and Dense for Removing Stubborn Dirt and Makeup | ||
2 | Klairs Toner Mate 2 in 1 Cotton Pad | ₱199 High Mid | Features 2 Different Types of Pads for Maximum Cleansing and Hydration | ||
3 | Posh Reusable Organic and Soft Bamboo Cotton Round Pads | ₱189 High Mid | A Set of Reusable Cotton Pads for Eco-Conscious Users | ||
4 | Koh Gen Do Organic Cotton | ₱450 High | 100% Pure Organic Cotton That's Perfect for Sensitive Skin | ||
5 | GreenPads Reusable Cotton Face Pads | ₱150 Mid | Locally-Made Reusable Pads That Are Great for Mild Exfoliation | ||
6 | The Body Shop Organic Cotton Pads Round | ₱200 High Mid | A Double-Sided Organic Cotton Pad for Mild Exfoliation and Effective Cleansing | ||
7 | Baby Moby Cotton Pads | ₱75 Low Mid | Gentle and Specially Designed for Babies | ||
8 | Cleene Maxi Oval Pads Aloe Vera | ₱89 Low Mid | Enriched With Aloe Vera for Softer and Smoother Skin | ||
9 | Miniso Combination Of Thick Thin Pure Cotton Pads | ₱119 Mid | A Combo of Thick and Thin Pads for Different Applications | ||
10 | Cuddles Cotton Rounds | ₱67 Low | Thin Yet Absorbent Cotton Pads for a Wide Range of Uses |
Wearing makeup that stays on the whole day is probably the best bang for your buck because regular touch-ups are minimal or not necessary. This is also the case for waterproof nail polish. However, some products may pose a bit of a challenge when you try to remove them and you end up using an excessive amount of tissue or pads especially if they are thin and brittle.
Thankfully, Muji has these cotton pads that are thick and heavy-duty to wipe away stubborn dirt, makeup, and nail polish without coming apart right away. In addition, they are composed of long and unbleached organic cotton fibers. Compared to bleached cotton, these pads are ultrasoft yet firm, and ultimately, safe to use even on sensitive and allergy-prone skin.
As for the size, each square-shaped pad measures 6 by 5 centimeters, so this can be an option if you intend to cover a wide area, particularly when you're buying cotton pads to make DIY sheet masks. This pack contains 180 pieces, which is already enough for a few months or so, all while being affordable at just PHP155.
Klairs is probably a go-to brand when it comes to skincare products from Korea. This box contains 60 pieces each of the compressed cotton pad and the sponge pad. The former has grooves on the surface that works best for exfoliation. Meanwhile, the latter absorbs toner and other liquids, perfect for sheet masks.
Here's how to use them; after cleansing, soak a compressed cotton pad with your toner to remove and scrub off any left-over residue and dirt from your face. Then, soak a sponge cotton pad in the same toner and gently pat it on your skin to increase absorption.
Adding these steps to your skincare routine will help you achieve the famous Korean glass skin, just like your favorite Korean celebs. By prepping your skin, you'll be able to achieve that kutis artista look that you've been dreaming about!
If you're concerned about the waste that disposable cotton pads make, your best option is to get reusable ones, just like these from Posh. Their cotton pads have finger pockets so you wouldn't accidentally scratch your skin when digging into tough stains and areas that are hard to reach.
The cotton pads are made of organic bamboo terry cotton fabric, providing a soft and velvety feel. These are suitable for sensitive, dry, and oily skin, and even near the eye area. Plus, these can be used for more than 2 years, saving you a lot of money while having significantly less waste.
Each 6-piece set costs PHP189, while the 12-piece variant at PHP339 - both of which have a free mesh bag. You can also purchase it per piece at PHP 30 and an extra mesh bag for the same price. This is the perfect gift for your friends and loved ones who are into skincare. When you wash these cotton pads, do not use bleach and other harsh chemicals.
If you have sensitive skin, these all-natural cotton pads from Koh Gen Do will do wonders for your skin! Made from 100% pure cotton, this product has not been treated with chemicals, nor has it been bleached or dyed. This product is certainly one-of-a-kind since it's difficult to find pure, organic cotton pads in the market.
The best part? It's thick enough to swipe the impurities off your face without falling apart. At the same time, it's soft enough to be delicate on your skin. Use it for any of your skincare needs, from exfoliating to moisturizing. Trust us, it's sulit for the price!
Nothing's better than saving the environment while helping our kababayans. With these reusable cotton pads from local shop Green Pads, both are possible. The pads are made of recycled cloth that is sewn together on the seams. They are best used for removing makeup and applying toner to the skin.
Because the cotton fabric has slight roughness, it can aid in mild exfoliation as you apply skincare essentials. A set has 15 cotton pads at PHP150ーa little bit pricier compared to some disposable cotton pads, but trust us, these can be used for a long time! You can choose between plain or assorted prints. The shop also offers reusable sanitary napkins, baby wipes, baby diapers, bibs, masks, and more.
Trust us when we say that these cotton pads are worth your money. Indeed, they are on the pricier end but these have high quality and organic, made with natural fibers, best for those with sensitive skin. The sides are sewn together so that the cotton pad wouldn't fray in just a few wipes.
Not only that, each pad is double-sided, with one being textured, and the other is plain. The textured side's uneven finish contributes to an effortless scrubbing to remove makeup and nail polish. On the other hand, the smooth surface can be soaked with cleanser or toner for gentle yet effective exfoliation.
Looking for gentle cotton pads for your little one's delicate skin? Then check out this product specially designed for babies. With these extra soft, lint-free, and fluorescence-free cotton pads, nappy changing time will be fuss-free! Hence, you can use it even in delicate areas such as your baby's eyelids or bum.
What's more, is that it doesn't contain any adhesive, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin. Instead, water jet technology is utilized to strengthen the surface. Also, it comes with pressed sides, so you can use it without any worries about it disintegrating while using it. This product is also available in a jumbo size to cover wider areas.
Cotton pads should not only serve the purpose of being able to remove makeup, nail polish, and dirt - they should also leave your skin smooth and soft. Cleene is one of the popular brands in terms of cotton products that is why their cotton pads infused with aloe vera deserve a spot on our list.
Aloe vera extract is suitable to manage skin that is sunburnt, dry, and cracked. If you have sensitive skin, this product may be one of your options since it is hypoallergenic and moisturizes, soothes, and calms the skin. Most of all, quality and safety are guaranteed because they are dermatologically tested.
In need of a variety of cotton pads for different applications? Get this combination of thick and thin cotton pads from Miniso! For just PHP119, you already get 400 thin and 75 thick cotton pads, which can last up to a whole year depending on the frequency of usage.
There are indentations on the side facing upwards so you can easily pull a pad separately, avoiding the other adjacent ones from being drawn. Another major plus of this product is that it comes with a reusable container that you can refill cotton pads with, as a multipurpose storage box.
On your next Watsons haul, don't forget to add these cotton pads to your cart! For one, they're the perfect size to use for all your skincare needs; they're not too big nor too small. Also, these super soft cotton pads are gentle enough to be used for sensitive skin and even babies.
Plus, with the side seals and interweaved cotton fibers, you can be assured of the product's quality. However, the best thing about this item is that it's thin and absorbent, helping you get the most out of your skincare products. The pack is resealable so you don't need to transfer the pads to a separate container.
After choosing or buying your cotton pads, you also need to know how to use them properly and maintain reusable ones. Don't you worry as Dr. Katrina Luz will answer some of the frequently asked questions and provide a few tips regarding these concerns.
It's important to wash your cotton pads if you use reusable ones, primarily because the oil and dirt from your face can accumulate on them making it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. A quick tipーplace used pads in a mesh laundry bag, toss them into the washing machine with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent, and hang dry.
Apply the product (typically a toner) onto the cotton pad and swipe it gently with minimal pressure over the face.
This would depend on your skin type, skin needs, and the product you're applying. Remember, cotton pads act as a form of physical exfoliation. And while exfoliation is great for some, it's definitely not one you should overdo.
After a long and stressful day, one way to unwind is to do your skincare routine to keep your skin supple, smooth, and relaxed. If you need recommendations for alcohol-free toners, anti-aging serums, micellar waters, and skincare products for teens, check out these articles!
Author: Aprille Jarcia
Re-editor: Patricia Catimpo
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Muji|Cotton Pads Ecru
No. 2: Klairs|Toner Mate 2 in 1 Cotton Pad
No. 3: Posh|Reusable Organic and Soft Bamboo Cotton Round Pads
No. 4: Koh Gen Do|Organic Cotton
No. 5: GreenPads|Reusable Cotton Face Pads
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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