What Is Micellar Water?
Micellar water is a skin care product that works as a gentle cleanser and makeup remover. It looks like regular water, but it contains tiny cleansing molecules called micelles. Each micelle has a water-loving outer layer that helps it blend with the water solution and an inner core that attracts dirt, oil, and makeup. When you apply micellar water to your skin, the core traps these impurities, while the outer layer makes them easy to wipe away without the need for harsh scrubbing.
Micellar water is milder than many soaps or cleansers, which can strip your skin of oil and make it feel tight or dry. Many people use it as a quick way to clean their face, especially if they don’t have access to a sink.
Micellar water ingredients
In its most basic form, micellar water is made from purified water and micelles. Susan Massick, MD, clinical associate professor of dermatology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that many brands also add hydrating agents like glycerin to moisturize your skin. Micellar water shouldn’t contain harsh chemicals or alcohol, but some brands do have extra additives — like charcoal, vitamin C, or oils — that are tailored to different skin types and concerns.
“You want something very simple that doesn't have a lot of additive fragrance or essential oils,” says Massick. “Try to get the most basic micellar water.”
How to Use Micellar Water
You can apply micellar cleansing water with your hands, a cotton pad, or a microfiber washcloth. If using your hands, pour a small amount of the product into your palms and gently rub it all over your face, including your eyelids, eyebrows, eyelashes, and lips. Alternatively, dampen a cotton pad, or washcloth (without soaking it) and swipe it across your skin. There’s no need to rub or rinse the product since micellar water lifts away dirt and makeup on its own.
Massick recommends using micellar water as the first step in your nighttime skin care routine. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it can work on its own. But if you wear heavy makeup or have oily skin, Massick suggests using it twice or following up with a second cleanser for a deeper clean.
Micellar water for hair
Hair and beauty influencers have claimed that you can use micellar water as a substitute for dry shampoo. It can be applied to the scalp using a spray bottle or with a cotton pad and is meant to absorb oil from your hair the same way it does on your skin. Since micellar water is lightweight and gentle, some people say it’s a better alternative to traditional dry shampoos, but there’s no scientific research to back up whether micellar water is a good solution for an oily scalp.
Massick cautions that since you’re not rinsing it out, micellar water will leave behind residue if you use it on your hair. Because it’s mainly water, it will also leave your hair wet. “If you're trying to remove oil from your scalp, I don't know if it's going to be the most effective option,” she says. “There are so many other effective products to use that are a little more scalp-friendly.”
Micellar water makeup remover
Micellar water acts like a magnet, lifting oil, dirt and other impurities off of your skin — including most makeup. But since it’s a gentle cleanser, it may not fully remove heavy foundation, stage makeup, or waterproof products. “Micellar water may not be as strong as some alternative makeup removers, but it’s actually fairly effective,” says Massick. “You may just have to use it more than once.”
For stubborn makeup or sunscreen, an oil-based cleanser may work better. Many beauty products, like foundation, mascara, and lipstick, contain oils or waxes. Since oil dissolves oil, a cleanser that contains more of it can break down these heavier ingredients more effectively, making them easier to remove from your skin. You can then follow up with micellar water.
Micellar water vs. toner
Micellar water and toner have different roles in a skin care routine. Micellar water is meant to be used first as a gentle cleanser, removing dirt, oil, and makeup. Toner is usually the second step in a skin care routine. Like micellar water, most toners are also water-based, but they’re meant to add additional moisture, remove any leftover residue, and prepare your skin for serums or creams. Depending on the formula, toner can also help with concerns like acne or aging.
Micellar Water Benefits
Many people use micellar water because of its gentle yet effective cleansing power. Here are some of the biggest benefits of using it as part of your skin care routine:
- Helps keep skin moisturized.Micellar water removes impurities while being gentler than many other cleansers, so it won’t strip away the natural oils your skin needs to staymoisturized. Some brands also contain glycerin for added hydration. But you should still follow it up with a face cream or moisturizer.
- No rinsing required.You don’t need to rinse off micellar water, which makes it a convenient option for travel or when you don’t have access to a sink. You can even apply it directly with your hands.
- Doubles as a makeup remover.Micellar water is essentially a two-in-one cleanser and makeup remover. For the best results, put some of the product on a cotton pad or microfiber cloth and swipe it across your face. If needed, repeat the process to make sure your skin is completely clean. If you wear heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen, consider using an oil-based cleanser, followed by micellar water.
- Works for all skin types.Because micellar water is gentle on the skin, it’s a great option for all skin types.
- Doesn’t cause skin irritation.Some face cleansers can irritate sensitive skin, but research shows that micellar water is less likely to cause itching, tingling, or burning. It’s also safe for people who have skin conditions like rosacea, atopic dermatitis, or allergic contact dermatitis.
- Safe for sensitive areas.Most brands of micellar water won’t irritate your eyes or lips, so you can use it all over your face. Make sure to read the label first.
Where to Get Micellar Water
Micellar water is available at most drugstores and department stores. Prices vary depending on the brand, bottle size, and whether it has any added ingredients for specific skin concerns, but typically you can expect to pay between $6 and $25.
“It's inexpensive and widely available,” says Massick. “It doesn't have to be something fancy.”
Takeaways
Micellar water is a gentle, easy-to-use cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and most makeup without the need to be rinsed off. Because it’s mild, micellar water is good for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It can be used as a standalone cleanser or as part of a double-cleansing routine, especially for those who wear heavy makeup or have oily skin. If you're interested in trying micellar water, look for a simple, fragrance-free formula at your local drugstore.
Micellar Water FAQs
What are the downsides of micellar water?
While micellar water works relatively well as a makeup remover, it may not fully remove heavy or waterproof makeup and sunscreen. If you don’t rinse it off, it can also leave behind a residue.
Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?
Yes, many dermatologists recommend micellar as an affordable everyday cleanser.
What's the difference between the blue and pink micellar water?
Skin care brands may offer micellar water in different colored packaging to target specific skin types or concerns. This includes formulas for all skin types, waterproof makeup removal or for sensitive skin.
Are you supposed to wash off micellar water?
No,micellar water doesn’t need to be rinsed off. But if you feel any residue on your skin, you can rinse it off if you prefer.
Is micellar water like witch hazel?
No, micellar water is not the same as witch hazel. Witch hazel comes from a plant and is often used in skin care products for its anti-inflammatory properties. Some people use it to treat breakouts, but it can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin. Micellar water, however, is much gentler and less likely to cause irritation.
