Micellar water has become a go-to in skincare routines – but what exactly is it and why’s it so popular? Here’s everything you need to know about this multi-tasking cleanser
Summary
1What’s micellar water?
It's made up of purified water, moisturisers and surfactants and is great at removing dirt, makeup and oil.
2How to use micellar water
Simply add it to a cotton pad (reusable is our preference) and let it wipe away the day.
3Benefits of micellar water
Depending on the type of ingredients you choose, it might help hydrate, soothe and cleanse.
Ever fallen asleep with your makeup on? You’re not alone, cleansing can feel like a chore after a long day or night out. But that’s where micellar water comes in. The gentle, no-rinse formula has quickly become a skincare hero, loved for how easy it makes removing even the most stubborn mascara and freshening up your face. But is it just a convenient cleanser or does it offer more? It’s time to clarify what micellar water really does beneath the surface.
What’s micellar water?
Micellar water is made up of purified water, moisturisers and surfactants. It’s the latter that provide the cleansing power, as these clever molecules attract dirt, makeup, oil and grime.1 Micellar water isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution – there’s a whole line-up of options on the market, with different formulas designed to target various skin types. It’s like a skincare treasure hunt – you might need to do a little experimenting to find the perfect match for your skin. Just remember, not all micellar waters are created equal and some might have ingredients that could irritate delicate skin.
Should I use micellar water?
Whilst the general rule of thumb is that micellar water is suitable for all skin types, let’s look at how it can help depending on your needs...
Is micellar water good for dry skin?
If you have dry skin, you might want to give micellar water a try. A small study found that participants with dry skin saw noticeable improvements in hydration and comfort after using it over time.2 While results can vary, it could be worth exploring – just make sure to pick the right one for your skin's unique needs.
Is micellar water good for oily skin?
Great news for those with oily skin… the same study mentioned above showed that micellar water works for oily skin too.2 It helps remove excess oil without stripping the skin, leaving it feeling clean but not overly dry.
What about micellar water for delicate skin?
Some micellar water can be a great option for delicate skin. Just make sure to pick one with gentle and soothing ingredients and, as well as cleansing, help to support your skin's moisture levels3. Try looking for ones that have been dermatologically tested with few calming and soothing ingredients such as chamomile extract.
Is micellar water good for normal and combination skin?
Even if you have normal or combination skin, micellar water can still be a great addition to your skincare routine. Studies show that it can be effective for balancing the pH of the skin, providing a refreshing cleanse.4
How to use micellar water in your routine
Simply put some on your reusable cotton pad and gently wipe across your face to remove the day. You might need to repeat and some people like to wash it away afterwards, but that's optional. Whilst it’s good at sweeping away makeup, dirt and oil in a flash, it might not always be your best bet for a deep clean. Some micellar waters can leave a little residue behind, which could end up blocking your pores – yikes...
So, for that fresh feeling, you might want to follow up with a face wash to give your skin a more thorough cleanse. But hey, some folks swear by micellar water as their main cleanser, whilst others love it as a toner after using a face wash. It really comes down to your skin type, the micellar water you choose and your personal preference.
What are the benefits of micellar water?
Depending on the type of ingredients in your chosen micellar water, it might help hydrate and soothe your skin. When picking your micellar water, just be sure to check the ingredient list. High alcohol content or heavy fragrances5 could make your skin raise an eyebrow, so choose wisely and let your skin reap the rewards.
When to avoid micellar water
While many micellar waters are a match for all skin types – even delicate ones – there are times when you might want to put the bottle down. If you start noticing any unwanted side effects, it’s time to hit the pause button. Some micellar waters can be a little too irritating, especially if they’re not specifically designed for the delicate eye area.
Always check the label for warnings and instructions to be on the safe side. If you’re not sure, it's better to keep it away from your eyes. And remember, micellar water is for external use only – so always give the product label a good read when trying something new.
The final say
In the world of skincare, micellar water is definitely the MVP we never knew we needed. Whether you're tackling makeup removal, refreshing your skin or just looking for a quick cleanse, it’s here to make your life easier. So, the next time you’re searching for a skincare shortcut that actually works, grab a bottle of micellar water and let it do its thing. Just be mindful of what’s in the bottle and your skin’s unique needs. Want to go deeper? Discover how your gut health affects your skin and the latest beauty products to try right now.
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
- Walters RM, Mao G, Gunn ET, Hornby S. Cleansing Formulations That Respect Skin Barrier Integrity. Dermatology Research and Practice [Internet]. 2012;2012:1–9. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3425021/
- Taieb C, Gayraud F, Dinet D, Sayag M. Interest in Micellar Solution to Reduce Unpleasant Skin Sensations. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2021 Aug;Volume 14:1017–22.
- Sensitive skin compatibility of micellar water. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology [Internet]. 2017 Jun 1;76(6):AB233. Available from: https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(17)31391-9/fulltext
- Dēna Skadiņa, Ināra Nokalna, Balcere A. Assessment of Micellar Water pH and Product Claims. Dermato [Internet]. 2024 Jul 11 [cited 2024 Aug 12];4(3):79–85. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2673-6179/4/3/9
- Kazemi Z, Aboutaleb E, Shahsavani A, Kermani M, Kazemi Z. Evaluation of pollutants in perfumes, colognes and health effects on the consumer: a systematic review. Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering. 2022 Feb 3;20(1):589–98.
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