What Is Lyocell and Why It’s Better for Your Skin (and the Planet)

You may have heard the name before - maybe on a label, maybe from a clean beauty blog - but what exactly is Lyocell?

Put simply, it’s one of the cleanest, softest, and most skin-safe fabrics available today. And if you're serious about skincare, hygiene, and sustainability, it’s a material worth getting to know.

What is Lyocell?

Lyocell is a plant-based fiber made from wood pulp, typically sourced from eucalyptus, birch, or beech trees grown in sustainable forests. It’s produced through a closed-loop manufacturing process, meaning nearly all the water and non-toxic solvents used during production are captured and reused.

It’s soft like cotton, absorbent like a sponge, and as gentle on the earth as it is on your skin.

What Makes Lyocell Skin-Friendly?

✔ Naturally Hypoallergenic – No harsh dyes, no fragrances, and no irritating textures. Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone, or post-treatment skin.

✔ Silky Soft Texture – Gentle enough to use around the eyes or after treatments like retinol or chemical exfoliants.

✔ Breathable & Moisture-Wicking – Helps keep skin balanced—not too dry, not too damp.

✔ Strong When Wet – Unlike cotton pads or paper towels, Lyocell maintains its integrity and softness even when saturated.

Dermatologists increasingly recommend Lyocell-based towels and fabrics for those seeking a cleaner, safer skincare routine.

"Lyocell is ideal for patients with eczema, rosacea, or acne because it reduces friction and won’t trap bacteria the way reusable cloths can," says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist.

How Lyocell Compares to Other Materials

Material	Skin Benefits	Environmental Impact	Feel
Lyocell	Hypoallergenic, breathable, ultra-soft	Biodegradable, sustainably sourced	Silky & smooth
Cotton	Natural but can be abrasive	Water-intensive, pesticides in conventional farming	Rougher texture
Bamboo	Soft, antimicrobial	Often marketed as green, but involves chemical-heavy processing	Soft & stretchy
Polyester	Traps bacteria & heat	Synthetic, non-biodegradable	Slippery/rough

Lyocell strikes the perfect balance between performance, purity, and planet-friendliness.

How We Use It at The Clean Co.

At The Clean Co., our face towels and cleansing pads are made using premium, non-woven Lyocell. That means:

• No bacteria buildup from reusing old towels

• No harsh textures to aggravate delicate skin

• No laundry or guesswork—just clean, every time

• No guilt—our Lyocell breaks down naturally in weeks, not decades

We believe a clean product starts with a clean material—and Lyocell is at the heart of ours.

Why It’s Better for the Planet, Too

• Biodegradable – Our Lyocell towels don’t leave a trace.

• Low Water Usage – The closed-loop process dramatically reduces water waste.

• Non-Toxic – No harmful solvents or finishes.

• Ethically Sourced – All pulp comes from responsibly managed forests.

If you care about your skin and your impact, Lyocell checks every box.

The Bottom Line

Your skin is your largest organ—and the first line of defense. Why dry it off or cleanse it with anything that could irritate or harm it?

Lyocell gives you the best of both worlds: luxury-level softness with earth-friendly responsibility.

The Clean Company - Single-use, skin-safe, and sustainable.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For skincare concerns, always consult with a licensed professional.