isitbannedintheuk.co.uk

Plastics question

isitbannedintheuk.co.uk · Answer card

Are plastic make-up wipes being banned?

A one-page summary to pin up for clients.

The answer

Ban scheduled across the UK

Yes. Wet wipes containing plastic, including make-up removal wipes, are being banned from sale to the public across the UK. Wales goes first, on 18 December 2026, then Northern Ireland on 18 May 2027, England on 19 May 2027 and Scotland on 11 August 2027.

Where you live matters

Wales

First to ban

Ban starts 18 December 2026

Wales has its own law, with its own exception for wipes made for medical care or treatment.

Northern Ireland

Own law

Ban starts 18 May 2027

Exceptions for pharmacies, medical use and supply between businesses.

England

Own law

Ban starts 19 May 2027

Businesses must not supply, or offer to supply, wet wipes containing plastic to the public. Government guidance says this includes face and make-up removal wipes and cosmetic sheet masks.

Scotland

Own law

Ban starts 11 August 2027

Exceptions for pharmacies, medical use and supply to businesses and public bodies.

Who can still sell them (England)

  • Medical use: healthcare professionals can still use and supply them for medical purposes.
  • Business to business: wholesalers and manufacturers can still supply businesses, charities and public bodies, but not for selling on to the public.
  • Pharmacies: can still sell them, but in the shop they must be kept out of customers' sight and reach and handed over on request. Pharmacies can still list them on their website or app.

Scotland and Northern Ireland have similar exceptions. Wales's exception is narrower: it covers wipes made for medical care or treatment. The laws we checked give no extra time to sell old stock after the ban dates.

What this doesn't tell you

A wipe being plastic-free doesn't mean it's flushable or compostable. Check the packet.

Last checked:

Sources

isitbannedintheuk.co.uk/rules/plastic-wet-wipes/ · Last checked 1 November 2026

General information from official sources, checked on the date shown. Not legal or medical advice. © The Contract Studio UK Ltd