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What is the Difference Between Medical Cotton Buds and Makeup Cotton Buds?

Although both medical and cosmetic cotton buds are sterilized at high temperatures, they are not the same cotton buds. Let's distinguish medical cotton buds from cosmetic cotton buds.


Ⅰ. Medical cotton buds


Medical cotton buds are made of natural birch wood and medical absorbent cotton. Cotton buds fibers should be soft, white, and odourless, free of maculas, stains, and foreign objects; the surface of plastic and paper sticks should be smooth, free of burrs, stains and foreign objects. The surface of wooden and bamboo sticks should be smooth, free of stains, and free of foreign objects.


Ⅱ. Makeup cotton buds


Round and oval-headed cotton swabs are the most commonly used makeup cotton buds. On the market-pointed cotton buds, the sharp head cotton bud is more versatile and effective. The medium-sized oval-headed cotton buds are ideal for smudging eyeshadow and correcting face makeup.


Because of the tip of the head, the pointed cotton bud can be used as a makeup tool for makeup details. It is appropriate for correcting smudged eyeliner, wiping away dirt on the eyelids when brushing the eyelashes, and modifying lipstick that draws the lips. Correct the nail polish on the nail's edge.


In general, medical cotton buds are more stringently manufactured due to the need to care for and treat wounds and ensure sterilization. It absorbs liquids better than regular cotton.


The main purpose of the cotton bud is to remove makeup. To ensure the requirements of makeup removal, the texture of the cotton swab is relatively softer. Even if you pour toner on it, it is comfortable to use and can easily clean the makeup.


It should be noted that most of the makeup cotton buds currently on the market are ordinary cotton swabs. Of course, it is not feasible to use a cotton swab to clean the wound, and it is very dangerous. Because the makeup cotton buds cannot meet the corresponding sterilization requirements, it cannot be used on the wound.


If a cotton swab is used to clean the wound without the disinfection equipment and conditions in the hospital, it is directly used for wound treatment, and the wound will likely be infected, and the wound will not be healed.


At ZHEJIANG B.I., we provide you with a variety of choices of sanitary napkins, pads, baby diapers, adult diapers, disposable underpads, wet wipes, makeup pads and cleaning fluids with good quality and competitive price. ZHEJIANG B.I. is the best innovative supplier for all your hygiene needs. ZHEJIANG B.I. has the largest selection of health and hygiene products and continues to expand its product categories. If interested, please consult.


FeatureMedical Cotton BudsMakeup Cotton Buds
MaterialMade of natural birch wood and medical-grade absorbent cotton.Typically made of regular cotton, sometimes with plastic or paper sticks.
Manufacturing StandardsStringent manufacturing processes for sterility and safety.Generally made with a focus on softness and comfort, but not sterilized to the same degree.
Head ShapeUsually straight or slightly rounded, with no sharp points.Available in round, oval, or pointed heads for various makeup tasks.
AbsorbencyHighly absorbent to handle medical needs such as wound cleaning.Softer and less absorbent, designed for makeup removal and correction.
Primary PurposeUsed for medical applications, such as cleaning wounds or applying medications.Used for makeup applications, such as removing makeup, correcting eyeliner, and smudging eyeshadow.
SterilizationSterilized at high temperatures to ensure safety for medical use.Typically not sterilized to the same level, may be used for cosmetic purposes only.
Safety for Wound CareSafe for wound care due to sterilization and absorbent properties.Not recommended for wound care due to lack of sterilization and suitability.
Comfort and SoftnessCotton fibers should be soft, white, and odorless, designed for medical use.Generally softer to the touch, ideal for makeup removal but not suitable for medical purposes.



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