It’s safe to say that we’re all fans of the humble cotton wool pad. They’re so versatile that they not only tend to be overlooked, but they’re likely to be used a lot more often than many of us realise.

Whether they’re drenched in micellar water to get rid of make-up, used to swipe toner around your face after cleansing, to wipe away smudged mascara after a badly-timed sneeze or to remove nail varnish, they’re the underrated skincare staple that we all no doubt feel lost without when we realise we’ve used the last one.

The problem, however, is that because they’re so versatile they tend to be used mindlessly and, along with face wipes and cotton buds, they’re one of the worst offenders when it comes to having a negative impact on the environment.  

So, unless you’re already using 100% organic cotton wool pads – which are a lot harder to come by than you’d think – the pesticides used in the non-organic cotton farming industry is actually a huge source of environmental pollution. The chemicals used during the production of cotton wool pads are not only poisoning wildlife and rivers, but they can be harmful to humans, too.

All is not lost though, and as usual we have the Koreans to thank for their clever skincare innovations. Jinmee’s Hydrapuff Super Absorbent Skincare Sheets, £6.50 for 60 pairs, are the cotton pad alternative the planet needs. 

Described as ‘innovative sponge-like sheets’, they’re super-thin, super-absorbent, and specially designed to soak up liquid skincare – like serums, toners, oils and lightweight moisturisers – in order to improve hydration. Once liquid is added they transform into the texture of a sheet mask and will adhere perfectly to your face, helping skin to soak up the product exactly where it’s needed. Clinical research has proven them to increase the absorption rate by up to 50%.

What’s also good is that Hydrapuff sheets are made from compressed, plant-based pulp and rayone (a manufactured fibre that imitates the feel and texture of natural fibres, like cotton) which makes it completely bio-degradable. The packaging is 100% recyclable, too, as well as being both vegan and cruelty-free. 

It’s a win-win situation really: good for the environment and even better for your skin.

Image credit: courtesy of brand