Buzz
While you might be consistent with your skincare routine, one common error could be the contamination of your freshly washed face with bacteria from your washcloth.
“Be cautious when using cleansing tools like washcloths, sponges, or loofahs, as they can irritate the skin,” dermatologist Joshua Zeichner previously shared with us. “Washcloths can host microorganisms if left wet and reused.” Zeichner is also an associate professor of dermatology and the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.
One way to avoid bacteria buildup in washcloths is using the highly recommended Clean Skin Club towels. Made from plant-based materials and disposable, they ensure a germ-free drying process for your face after cleansing, providing an optimal surface for your products to work their best without the presence of additional bacteria.
At the time of this report, the towels ranked as the #1 bestseller on Amazon for facial cleansing cloths and towelettes, and #3 in the beauty and personal care category. Reviewers say, 'You won’t realize you need it until you try it,' with over 24,000 5-star reviews praising the product.
Reviewers rave about these towels for their exceptional ability to cleanse skin, thanks to their ultra-soft, lint-free cellulose fabric. One user, Kaysta, shared: 'Nothing compares to these towels. They remove makeup, oil, and dirt from my face with just a few swipes. I invest heavily in skincare products, but nothing works as well as these towels.' Customers also highlight the towels' size and thickness: 'Other reviews were right—these towels are huge and thick. Would I say they feel luxurious? Absolutely!' Furthermore, these towels help reduce skin irritation. Avery Renfro pointed out, 'I didn't realize how much disposable towels could impact my skin. After learning that bathroom towels carry bacteria and chemicals from detergents, my skin showed a noticeable improvement within days. Totally worth the investment.'
People are convinced these towels are now a key part of their beauty routines: 'These towels have worked wonders for my skin, leaving my face clean and clear. They're incredibly soft and gentle—I never want to use a regular towel again,' said ChellyD, a user who was recommended these towels by her esthetician.
Reviewers also emphasize how ideal these towels are for travel and camping.
You can find the Clean Skin Club towels on Amazon, available in a variety of pack sizes. Here are more reviews:
'I’ve been using these towels for years now. I won’t use anything else to dry my face. They’re lint-free, bacteria-free, and very absorbent. They remove makeup too. I use them once and throw them away. My face feels so clean after use. These towels are now a daily must-have for me.' —Liz
'After learning that e. coli can be found on towels just minutes after use, and having sensitive skin, I tried these. After using them for two weeks, my acne has improved and my skin feels less dry. I was concerned about the waste, but I’ve found ways to use them for cleaning, reducing my need for paper towels. I’ll keep using these towels and am excited to try more products from the brand.' —Sofia
'I love these towels! I use them both at home and when traveling. Regular towels collect bacteria, so I love the one-time use of these. They keep my other towels free of makeup stains.' —Janice
'I adore these towels! I use them to dry my face instead of a regular towel, which collects bacteria. They also work great for removing makeup remover balm. I’ll be buying these forever. My skin has cleared up since I started using them!' —Staggfury
'These towels are the best for sensitive skin. They’re perfect for makeup wearers who are tired of ruining their cloths and pillowcases. They remove all traces of products and leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated.' —Jennifer Carelli
'I was skeptical about disposable washcloths being better than my regular face cloths, but these make my skin look and feel much better. I try to be eco-friendly, so I use them in the shower or to clean my sink. They’re durable and reusable for other cleaning tasks.' —Colleen
If you’re seeking milder methods to cleanse your skin, be sure to check out Tessa Flores’ roundup of gentle face washes and cleansing products that won’t leave your skin feeling parched.
1. A face wash that preserves your skin's natural oils without stripping them away
2. A non-foaming, hydrating cleanser perfect for daily use
3. A nourishing cleansing balm infused with omegas, perfect for sensitive skin types
4. A hydrating foaming cleanser designed for acne-prone skin
5. A mild micellar water for makeup removal before cleansing
6. A face wash that helps support and protect the skin barrier
7. A cleansing oil that removes dirt and impurities without leaving your skin feeling overly tight
“Moderation is key in terms of time, intensity, and temperature,” explained Arianne Shadi Kourosh, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. Starting with a hydrating, oil-based cleanser to attract and dissolve impurities can save you time, reducing the need to scrub excessively with your face wash. This lightweight oil by Shiseido features cleansing agents from a moisturizing compound that effortlessly melts away dirt, leaving the skin feeling smooth and free from residue. One user noted that it effectively removes their sunscreen and even waterproof mascara without leaving skin tight or dry.
Available at Target for $35.
8. A silicone facial brush for gentle exfoliation without irritation
Board-certified dermatologist Jennifer David shared that she personally loves manual silicone scrubbing pads as a more affordable and hygienic alternative to automatic face brushes. These pads are gentler on the skin compared to harsh scrubs, which can create micro-tears. This dual-textured exfoliating brush offers a massage-like cleansing experience, and its teardrop shape allows for easier access to the harder-to-reach areas of your face.
Available at Sephora for $8.
9. An antimicrobial towel that is exceptionally gentle on the skin
