Micellar water may be the next best thing to happen to your beauty routine – here’s why:
Micellar water is again becoming one of the most popular ways to cleanse away makeup, dirt and grime, giving your pores a good clean.
Though not new to beauty, micellar water has recently started making an appearance again as one of the most trending products to include in beauty and skincare routines across social media.
What is Micellar water?
Micellar water is a water-like cleanser which targets and removes makeup and dirt on the skin easier than the average cleanser.
It is primarily made up of purified water, hydrating ingredients and small amounts of mild surfactants. As cosmetic chemist Joseph Cincotta says, the mild surfactants “act like magnets for dirt and oil” and are what give the thorough clean.
Also present, are little oils called micelles which give the cleanser its name, targeting grime and dirt that a normal face cleanser might otherwise miss.
It is important to distinguish high-quality from poor-quality micellar waters. The past few years have identified cheaper brands incorporating harsh chemicals and ingredients that stripped the skin of its natural oils. So, it is in your best interest to know what you are looking for and how to spot the micellar water that will work for you.
Cosmetic dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting suggests finding a micellar water that has as little ingredients as possible. With grime traps present in the cleanser, chances are the wrong choice of micellar water will weaken the effectiveness of other products in your skincare routine or even cause breakouts.
Why make the switch to Micellar Water:
Used differently to face cleansers, micellar water is applied onto a cotton pad or cloth and wiped on the skin. Besides removing makeup, it can also be used after sweaty workouts to simply remove dirt and debris.
Either used on its own or with other products, adding micellar water to your skincare routine is so important. Pair it with a facial cleanser and moisturiser to soothe the skin after a long day of makeup wearing and grime build-up.
Effectively a cleanser where no water is necessary, it is perfect late at night when hopping into bed is your priority, as no rinsing is required.
Simply apply to a cotton pad and then generally swipe over face to remove makeup, dirt and grime. Repeat until there is no more makeup or dirt on the cotton pad. When remove eye makeup, gently press against the eye area and hold, wiping it away after a few seconds.
After removing makeup with micellar water, a skincare routine can be completed. There is no need for soap, any other cleanser, or even water.
Here are some dermatologist-approved micellar waters to get the best cleanse:
Bioderma Sensibio H2o (RRP $24.99) – For sensitive skin
Described by Gwyneth Paltrow as “the best make-up remover”, Bioderma’s micellar water is arguably the product that started the whole micellar water craze. Its fragrance-free formula protects the skin’s natural moisture barrier and is perfect for those with sensitive or dry skin. A celebrity favourite, it is budget-friendly and leaves the skin soft and clean.
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Drunk Elephant E-Rase Milki Micellar Water (RRP $43) – For all skin types
Fragrance and irritant free, this ceramide-based formula is suitable for all skin types. Unlike other brands, the soothing omega fatty-acids within the product target pollution and bacteria without stripping the skin’s acid mantle.
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Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water (RRP $9.99) – For all skin types
Being a more inexpensive micellar water, this hydrating cleanser doesn’t leave a sticky residue on the skin. Over the years, Garnier has extended their micellar water range, incorporating specific types targeting waterproof makeup, delicate eyes and oily skin.
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La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water (RRP $32.95) – For sensitive skin
Created using ingredients like glycerin and citric acid, La Roche-Posay’s cleansing water is highly recommended for those with oily skin. Its formula is ideal for multiple step skincare routines, effectively absorbing other products while fighting acne and not clogging the pores.
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Lancôme Eau Fraîche Douceur Micellar Cleansing Water (RRP $65) – For normal to combination skin
Having a light rose fragrance, Lancôme’s cleansing water conveniently comes in a pump bottle, requiring only 4 pumps to thoroughly remove all long-wear or waterproof makeup in the eye area. This high-end micellar water leaves the skin feeling pleasant and soft, with no need to rinse afterwards.
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TOP BEAUTY TIP: Drench the end of a cotton bud and lightly wipe across the lid to help remove eyeliner and eyeshadow from the more delicate areas of the eye. This tip can also be used to neaten up eyeliner after application which may have leaked out of line, to sharpen your makeup look.
