Clean and green

The set comprises four up-cycled cotton-blend and terry cloth pads

Let's get one thing straight: we know that sustainability is important, but are all methods and practices, rooted in this concept, practical? Well, we're on the fence about that answer. In our pursuit of attempting to switch to sustainable, clean beauty alternatives in our daily lives, we came across indie brand Ruby Organics' latest drop, a set of upcycled cotton reusable cleansing pads, and decided to give it a shot.

Called Take It Off! this set of four pads is made with a zero-waste approach and created entirely with leftover factory scraps of cloth. Over the period of a week, we tested out all four pads, three made of a cotton blend and one of a terry cloth material, with different skincare and makeup removal products, to make sure we had a clear picture of the product's potential.

Right off the bat, we believe the price point (R 500 per set) for the product is a little expensive for what it offers. While the cotton-blend pads come in the perfect size to pair with toning products, the texture is rough, and often tugs on your skin as you swipe. We don't recommend using it for serums or moisturisers, as it doesn't add any value to the process. You're better off using your hands for these routines. The saving grace of the set was the terry cloth pad, which was much softer and less harsh on the skin, and worked as a good make-up remover when paired with cleanser or balm. We recommend this product to be used only for removing heavy eye-makeup since it reaches all the crevices.

Overall, despite its eco-friendly plus point, the hole it burns in your pocket might warrant a rethink. Single upcycled terry-cloth blends or non-toxic cleansing balms would serve as better sustainable options, and might leave your skin happy too.

Other sustainable products to check out

>> Plum's E-Luminence Simply Supple cleansing balm.
Log on to: nykaa.com

>> Earth Rhythm's Cleansing Balm with propolis.
Log on to: earthrhythm.com

>> Greenzla reusable organic, bamboo and eco-friendly and waste -free cotton pads
Log on to: Etsy