(see also Micellar Water 101 and How do cleansers work?)
What is a micellar water?
Micellar waters are a very fancy name for a mild facial cleanser.
In theory, because their cleansing action is milder than a normal facial cleanser, they should inflict less damage to lipids and proteins in your skin. (Geek detail on how micellar waters and facial cleansers work is available at this BLOG).
Also, “technically” you don’t have to wash your face after using a micellar water, but PLEASE wash your face.
What did I road-test to arrive at my top 3 recommendations?
Micellar waters are commonly labelled as “all in one make-up removers.” I put to test this make-up removing ability by applying a patch of different make-up (waterproof and non-waterproof) and then used the test subject (i.e., the micellar water) to remove it.
My top 3 choices are based on the result of these tests .
What did I learn along the way?
No 1: Bioderma Sensibio H2O micellar water
Link to Product ReviewRepeated use of this product did not dry my skin out. It has a simple formula and it removes most make-up, except Pat McGrath’s lipstick, which I am beginning to think that no micellar water can remove!
No 2: Garnier Micellar Cleansing water
Link to Product ReviewThere are few or no reasons to not like this micellar water. It is the only micellar water that has not only got rid of most make-up but also, reduced the pigmented lipstick. Also it only has 7 ingredients, which is a rarity amongst micellar waters. Of these 7, there are only 2 mild surfactants (which is great for your skin) and there is one moisturising agent (Glycerin) that ensures your skin is not relieved of excessive water.
No 3: Uriage micellar water (for normal to dry skin)
Link to Product ReviewI like this product. It removed most of the make-up and made a serious dent on the pigmented lipstick, which I am beginning to think deserves an Oscar for its staying power. There is a slight fragrance to the product but its subtle.
A product that is brilliant but also contains BHT
La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra
Link to Product ReviewAs I explained in this blog, this product has superior performance and is second only to Bioderma’s Sensibio. But it also contains BHT (see this LINK for more information) and its entirely your call whether you purchase/use it or not.
Buy anyway…
Bioderma Pigmentbio H2O brightening micellar water
Link to Product ReviewI am intrigued about this product. It has an endless number of ingredients, which are not necessary for its construct as a micellar water. BUT…its supposed to also be brightening – it has 2 no nonsense ingredients (Azelaic Acid and Hexapeptide-2) – and if this product does work, then its a game-changer for my skincare routine.
I would not buy any of these products again:
(Each link will take you to an individual product review).
Avene Cleanance Micellar water
Boots expert skincare micellar water
Ducray Moisturising Micellar Water
Forest Essentials Micellar water make up remover
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil
Nivea micellar waer (make up remover)
No 7 Revitalising Micellar Cleansing Water