Cotton pads are pads made of cotton which are used for medical or cosmetic purposes. For medical purposes, cotton pads are used to stop or prevent bleeding from minor punctures such as injections or venipuncture. They may be secured in place with tape.

The wrong cotton pad can irritate sensitive skin and become a counterproductive part of your skin-care routine. Pads with a rough texture or those made from a material that has been bleached or treated with other chemicals can be too harsh on the skin and trigger allergic reactions.

The materials of cotton pads In general, cotton pads are small pieces of cotton about 5-6 centimeters made of cotton or paper pulp, which plays a very important role in skincare. There are three main types of cotton pads, pure cotton pads, cotton pads with mixed materials, and non-woven fabrics cotton pads.

• White Rabbit Premium Cotton Pads. Best overall.
• Q-tips Cotton Rounds. Best textured.
• Muji Makeup Facial Soft Cut Cotton. Best for sensitive skin.
• Amazon Basics Cotton Rounds. Best bulk.
• Greenzla Reusable Makeup Remover Pads. Best reusable.
• LastRound Reusable Cotton Pads. Best for travel.

The world of cotton pads Similar to a gentle exfoliator, cotton pads are great at getting rid of dead skin cells and stopping excess oil and sebum from accumulating, but can be used everyday and without the hassle of massaging in and washing away another product into the skin.

Some of the best fabrics for reusable makeup pads include microfiber, terry cloth, bamboo velour, brushed cotton, jersey knits, and fleece. If you don't want to buy new fabric for this project, you can just upcycle an old towel. I made my cotton rounds with a couple of microfiber cloths that I received from a friend.

Organic cotton pads don't contain fragrance, perfume or deodorant, which keeps the skin free from irritation. You can find out more about fragrance in period care here. Organic cotton is naturally soft and breathable.

Best Sanitary Pad Brands

• Whisper.
• Stayfree.
• Nua.
• Plush.
• Paree.
• Sofy.
• Bella.
• PeeSafe.

Healthline's picks for the best period pads

• Natracare Ultra Pads Super with Wings.
• Claene Organic Cotton Cover Pads.
• U by Kotex Fitness Ultra Thin Pads with Wings.
• L.
• August Pads.
• U by Kotex Security Feminine Maxi Pad with Wings.
• Always Infinity Feminine Pads for Women.
• Organyc Feminine Care Pads.

The production of cotton itself requires a lot of water and pesticides, which can have negative environmental impacts. Additionally, most cotton pads are not biodegradable and end up in landfills, where they can take a long time to break down and release harmful chemicals into the environment.

Organic cotton sanitary pads offer more sustainable, non-allergenic, and eco-friendly choices. Whereas, regular pads, which are widely available at cheaper prices, impact the environment and cause irritation, rashes, and other skin related issues.

• White Rabbit Premium Cotton Pads. Best overall.
• Q-tips Cotton Rounds. Best textured.
• Muji Makeup Facial Soft Cut Cotton. Best for sensitive skin.
• Amazon Basics Cotton Rounds. Best bulk.
• Greenzla Reusable Makeup Remover Pads. Best reusable.
• LastRound Reusable Cotton Pads. Best for travel.