Glov Beauty Review: Before You Buy, Read This Honest UK Verdict

Hello, lovely readers!

Let’s talk about one of the biggest trends in beauty: makeup remover cloths. They’re everywhere, right? They promise to take off your makeup quickly, easily, and with just water. No more messy bottles of cleanser, no more cotton pads piling up in the bin. It sounds like a dream, especially for those nights when you’re just too tired for a full skincare routine.

But do they actually work? And more importantly, are they good for your skin?

One of the most famous brands is Glov Beauty. You’ve probably seen their ads all over Instagram and Facebook. They sell these clever little mitts and cloths that you dampen with water to magically melt away your makeup. They look so easy and effective.

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But I’ve been a beauty blogger for years, and I’ve learned that not every viral product lives up to the hype. Some are brilliant, and some are a total waste of money. I get so many questions from you all about whether these cloths are worth it, so I knew I had to investigate properly.

So, I decided to put Glov to the ultimate test. I’ve been using the Glov Original Mitt and the Glov Rapid-Removal Cloth for the last six weeks. I’ve tested it with everything from a light tinted moisturiser to a full face of stage-worthy, waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation.

This is my comprehensive, honest, and detailed review from a UK perspective. I’ll tell you exactly how it works, what it’s good at, what it’s not so good at, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash. Let’s dive in.

What Exactly is Glov Beauty? The Science Behind the Hype

Before we get into my results, let’s understand what makes Glov different from just using a flannel from Primark. It’s not just a piece of cloth; it’s a piece of fabric technology.

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Glov products are made from a special, ultra-soft Tencel™ and cotton blend fabric. This material is designed with two distinct sides, each with a specific job:

• The Gentle Side (White): This is the super soft, smooth side. It’s designed for sensitive areas like around your eyes and for those with delicate skin. It’s meant for gentle wiping.
• The Exfoliating Side (Lilac/Grey): This side has a slightly textured, terrycloth-like surface. This texture is designed to help lift away makeup and provide a very gentle physical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells.

The principle is simple: you run the glove or cloth under warm water, wring it out, and then wipe your makeup away. The water activates the fibres, and the combination of warmth and texture is what helps breakdown and lift the makeup from your skin.

The brand is certified cruelty-free by PETA, and the products are designed to be reused hundreds of times, which is a fantastic step towards a more sustainable beauty routine.

First Impressions: Unboxing & Initial Feel

When my Glov order arrived, the presentation was sleek and modern. The products themselves felt high quality. The Glov Original Mitt is made from a stretchy, flexible material that fits snugly on your hand, giving you good control. The Rapid-Removal Cloth is larger, softer, and feels more plush and luxurious.

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They felt much more durable and well-made than I had anticipated. My immediate thought was their perfectio for two scenarios: travel and late-night fatigue. Throwing a single cloth in my suitcase is much easier than packing a bottle of cleanser that could leak everywhere. And on those nights when I can barely keep my eyes open, the promise of a one-step cleanse is incredibly appealing.

The Deep Dive: My 6-Week Testing Journey

I tested the Glov in every scenario I could think of to give you a complete picture. Here’s what happened.

The Resounding Successes: When Glov Absolutely Shines

1. For Light, Everyday Makeup: This is where Glov is an undisputed superstar. On days when I just wore a bit of concealer, cream blush, brow gel, and a tinted moisturiser (like my beloved IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream), the Glov worked perfectly. I dampened it with warm water, gently wiped my face in circular motions, and my makeup was gone in under a minute. My skin felt clean, soft, and not stripped or tight at all.
2. For Travel and Gym Bags: This is, without a doubt, its best use case. I took the Rapid-Removal cloth on a weekend trip to Cornwall, and it was brilliant. I didn’t have to worry about liquid limits at airport security or a bottle exploding in my bag. It’s the ultimate space-saver and a game-changer for anyone who travels frequently.
3. For Reducing Beauty Waste: I felt genuinely pleased about not throwing away a handful of cotton pads every single night. If you’re trying to be more eco-friendly, this is a fantastic and effective switch to make. Over a year, the amount of waste saved is significant.
4. As a First Cleanse in a Double-Cleanse Routine: I found it works best as a first step. It efficiently takes off the bulk of the makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime. I can then follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser like the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser to make sure my pores are perfectly clean and any final traces are gone. Used this way, it’s exceptional.

The Limitations & Deal-Breakers: What You Need to Know

1. Waterproof Mascara is a Major Challenge: This is the biggest letdown and the most common complaint. Glov claims it can remove waterproof mascara, but it really, really struggles. It took a lot of very gentle pressing and holding on my eyelids to get it mostly off. This kind of prolonged tugging and rubbing is not good for the delicate eye area and can contribute to wrinkles and sensitivity. I ultimately always had to use a dedicated waterproof makeup remover, like the Garnier Micellar Water Waterproof, first.
2. Heavy, Long-Wear Foundation: My heavy-duty, long-wear foundation (like the Estée Lauder Double Wear) also put up a fight. The Glov removed the top layer, but I could still see noticeable residue around my hairline, jawline, and nose. I always needed a second cleanse to feel completely clean and avoid breakouts.
3. It Can Feel Abrasive if Used Incorrectly: The exfoliating side has a noticeable texture. If you are tempted to scrub at stubborn makeup (which is a natural reaction), it can feel too rough and cause redness, especially on sensitive skin, rosacea, or if you have active breakouts. A super gentle hand is non-negotiable.

How to Use It Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide for Best Results

Technique is everything with Glov. Doing it wrong can lead to skin irritation and poor results. Here’s how to get the best experience:

1. Use Warm Water: Not hot, not cold. Warm water helps to melt and break down makeup effectively.
2. Wring It Out Thoroughly: The cloth should be damp, not dripping wet. Too much water will dilute its effectiveness.
3. Be INCREDIBLY GENTLE: This is the golden rule. Do not scrub. Press the cloth onto your skin and hold it for a few seconds (5-10 for the eyes) to let the warmth break down the makeup. Then, use gentle, circular motions to wipe it away.
4. Rinse and Repeat: After you’ve wiped one section, rinse the cloth under running water to get the makeup out, then continue. This prevents you from just smearing makeup around your face.
5. Follow Up with a Second Cleanse: For a truly deep clean, especially if you are acne-prone, always follow up with a second cleanser. This ensures all dirt, bacteria, and residue are gone.
6. Wash It Immediately After Use: Rinse it thoroughly under warm water until the water runs completely clear.

The Real Talk: A Balanced Pros and Cons List

After six weeks of use, here’s my balanced and detailed assessment.

The Pros (What Truly Impressed Me):

• Unbeatable Speed & Convenience: It makes removing light makeup a 30-second job. Perfect for late nights.
• The Ultimate Travel Companion: No leaks, no liquids, no fuss. An absolute game-changer for holidays and gym bags.
• Eco-Conscious Choice: Drastically reduces your reliance on disposable cotton pads and wipes.
• Gentle Formulation: No chemicals, alcohols, or perfumes, making it suitable for sensitive skin (when used correctly).
• Cost-Effective Long-Term: The upfront cost is quickly offset by not having to constantly repurchase disposables and liquid removers.

The Cons (Important Considerations):

• Fails with Heavy Duty Makeup: It is not effective at removing waterproof mascara or very heavy, transfer-proof foundation on its own. This is its biggest weakness.
• Not a Complete Cleanse: You should absolutely use a second cleanser to ensure all dirt and residue is gone and to properly clean your pores.
• Hygiene Maintenance: You must wash it thoroughly after every single use to prevent bacteria and mould from growing in the damp fibres.
• Upfront Cost: The initial purchase price is higher than a bottle of cleanser, which can be a barrier.

Final Thoughts: So, Should You Actually Buy One?

So, after all that testing, is a Glov Beauty product a smart buy?

Yes, but only if you have realistic expectations and understand its specific purpose.

Glov is an absolutely brilliant investment if you:

• Primarily wear light, non-waterproof, cream-based makeup.
• Are a frequent traveller or are constantly on the go.
• Are actively trying to reduce your beauty waste and use fewer disposable products.
• Are looking for a quick and effective first step in your double-cleaning routine.
• Want a product that is simple, chemical-free, and gentle (when used correctly).

You should probably save your money if:

• You always wear waterproof mascara and heavy, transfer-proof foundation.
• You expect it to be a complete, one-step cleansing solution that replaces your entire routine.
• You have highly sensitive, rosacea-prone, or acne-riddled skin that may react to any physical texture.
• You know you won’t commit to washing and drying it thoroughly after every single use.

For me, it has become a permanent part of my routine. I use it almost every night as my first cleanse. It’s made that step faster and more eco-friendly. But I always follow it with a second cleanse, and I always keep a bottle of dedicated eye makeup remover on hand.

It’s a fantastic tool, but it’s not a magic wand. It won’t replace your entire skincare routine, but it can make a part of it much more efficient.

Have you tried Glov Beauty? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Glov Beauty Queries Answered

Since publishing my review, I’ve received so many brilliant questions about Glov. It’s clear many of you are intrigued but want to know the specifics before investing. Here, I’ve answered the most common queries in depth to give you a clear, honest picture.

Q1: Can the Glov really remove waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation?
A: This is the most important question. The honest answer is it struggles significantly. While marketing may suggest it can, my testing showed it requires a lot of prolonged pressing and gentle wiping, which isn’t ideal for the delicate eye area. For budge-proof mascara like Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof or foundations like Estée Lauder Double Wear, you will almost certainly need a dedicated, oil-based makeup remover first. Relying on Glov alone for these products will lead to unnecessary rubbing.

Q2: Is it suitable for very sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea?
A: Proceed with extreme caution. While the Glov contains no irritating chemicals, the physical texture of the exfoliating side can be a trigger for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or inflamed skin. If you have these concerns:

• Use ONLY the soft, gentle side of the cloth.
• Employ a strict press-and-hold technique. Hold the warm cloth against your skin for 20-30 seconds to dissolve makeup, then gently wipe away. Avoid any scrubbing or rubbing motion.
• Always do a patch test on your jawline first. A great gentle alternative is the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser, which requires no rubbing.

Q3: How do I properly clean and dry it to prevent bacteria and mould?
A: Hygiene is paramount with reusable cloths.

• After Every Use: Rinse it thoroughly under warm, running water until the water runs completely clear of all makeup residue.
• Weekly Deep Clean: Machine wash it on a gentle, cool cycle inside a delicates/lingerie bag. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Do not use fabric softener, as it can coat the fibres and reduce effectiveness.
• Drying: Always let the air dry completely before storing it. Hang it over a tap or on a dryer rack. Never put it away damp, as this will promote mildew growth. Never tumble dry.

Q4: Where is the most affordable place to buy Glov in the UK?
A: Glov is thankfully readily available from major UK beauty e-tailers, so you can often find it on sale.

• Lookfantastic: Glov Beauty at Lookfantastic – often has promotions and discounts.
• Feelunique: Glov Beauty at Feelunique – also frequently runs sales.
  It’s worth signing up for their newsletters to get alerts on promotions, which can significantly reduce the initial cost.

Q5: How does it compare to using a regular flannel or muslin cloth?
A: The difference is in the specialised fibre blend (Tencel™ and cotton). A regular flannel is often made from rougher terrycloth that can be more abrasive and less effective at grabbing makeup. The Glov’s fibres are engineered to be more effective at lifting makeup with less effort. However, if you are on a tight budget, a soft muslin cloth used with a cleansing balm can offer a similar experience for less money.

Q6: Is it truly a one-step solution, or do I still need a cleanser?
A: For the health of your skin, you should not use it as a one-step solution. It is best used as a first cleanse to remove makeup and surface debris. You should always follow up with a second cleanse using a gentle water-based facial cleanser, like the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, to remove any final traces of makeup, bacteria, and pollution that the cloth might have missed. This two-step method is crucial for preventing breakouts.

Q7: How long does a single Glov product actually last before it needs replacing?
A: With impeccable care, a Glov product is very durable. The brand states it can last for over 500 washes. In practical terms, that’s well over a year of daily use. You’ll know it needs replacing when the fibres start to break down, become permanently stained, or lose their effectiveness at removing makeup.

Q8: Will it save me money compared to buying makeup remover and cotton pads?
A: Yes, but only in the long term. The initial cost (£12-£20) is higher than a bottle of micellar water. However, if you currently use disposable cotton pads every day, the savings quickly add up. A packet of 100 pads costs around £2. Over a year, that’s至少 £7.30, meaning the Glov could pay for itself in a few months and then start saving you money.

Q9: What’s the difference between the Glov Original Mitt and the Rapid-Removal Cloth?
A: The main difference is size and design.

• Original Mitt: Fits on your hand like a glove. Some people prefer this for the control it offers, feeling they can get a better grip on contours like the nose.
• Rapid-Removal Cloth: Larger and softer. Many find it faster for covering more surface area on the cheeks and forehead and prefer the feel of the cloth. Both use the same two-sided fabric technology.

Q10: Can I use it with an oil or balm cleanser, or just water?
A: You can absolutely use it with a cleanser! While designed for water, it makes an excellent application tool for cream or oil cleansers. Applying your cleanser with the cloth and then adding water can help it emulsify and can make the cleansing process even more effective. This is a great way to boost the power of your existing products.