The 11 Best Micellar Waters That You Must Try In 2024
Cleanse your face with ease with the most suitable solutions that enhance your skin.
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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If you thought washing your makeup off with a face wash would get you glowing skin, well, you are wrong. You need the best micellar waters to better your skin. Micellar water is a popular french skincare secret that removes stubborn waterproof makeup, cleanses accumulated dirt in your pores without irritating your skin. This gentle formula works great for all skin types. With so many options of micellar waters out there, it is quite challenging to choose the best between a high-end and a drugstore brand. Hence, we have listed the 11 best micellar waters available for you. Have a look!
In This Article
What Is Micellar Water?
Micellar water is a multipurpose skin care product and was developed in France during the ’90s. It is made of tiny micelles (cleansing oil molecules) suspended in soft water. These micelles attract dirt, impurities, and pollution from the skin, leaving it squeaky clean. Micellar water may also contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, purified water, moisturizers, and mild surfactants for thorough cleansing.
Micellar water is mild and skin-friendly and is specially formulated for dry, sensitive, and combination skin types. It cleanses without clogging the pores or drying and irritating the skin. Although micellar water cleanses the skin, it is different from the usual cleansers.
How Is Micellar Water Different From A Normal Cleanser?
A cleanser and micellar water differ in multiple ways.
- Cleansers have a cream-like formula, while micellar water is oil suspended in a water-like cleanser.
- Cleansers provide deep cleansing and remove heavy makeup, while micellar water is good for soft makeup and general cleansing.
- Cleansers may strip the natural oils and leave the skin dry. Micellar water cleanses the skin without drying as it contains hydrating ingredients.
- Cleansers are rinse-off products and may come in forms like lotions, balms, and foam. Micellar water does not need to be washed off.
Let’s now check out the top 11 micellar waters available online.
Top 11 Micellar Waters For Clean Skin
1. Best Gentle Formula:Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-up Removing Micelle Solution
The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-up Removing Micelle Solution is an oil-free cleansing water. It can remove waterproof makeup easily without much struggle and is best suited for sensitive skin. It effectively cleanses the skin by gently removing pollutants, while its soothing ingredients provide a calming and refreshing sensation. This product has proven efficacy in maintaining your skin’s hydrolipidic film and contains active dermatological ingredients close to your skin’s composition.
The extra-gentle formula gives your skin instant freshness and does not hamper your skin’s natural moisture barrier. The presence of natural and active ingredients makes it an ideal choice for everyday use. It is easy to use and gentle on your skin. It shows immediate visible results. Take a look at this reviewer’s experience in this video for an honest opinion and demo of the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-up Removing Micelle Solution.
- Dermatologically tested
- Maintains skin balance
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
None
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 6,914 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
2. Best For Contact Lens Wearers:Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water
Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water is an all-in-one option for cleansing, removing make-up, soothing, and fortifying. The product is free from alcohol, parabens, and soap. It is dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested and has proven safe for your face and eyes. It leaves your irritated skin feeling calm and comfortable. You don’t need to rinse your face, just take the product on a cotton pad and apply in a sweeping motion. The dermatologically tested product has proven to deliver visible results.
- Dermatologist Tested
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Soap-Free
- Refreshing fragrance
- Allergy tested
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Some people may not like the fragrance
"This micellar water is really gentle on my skin. It removes makeup without causing irritation. It spreads easily on the face and soothes it while removing stubborn residues. It can also be used as a refreshing toner during the summer months."
3. Best Exfoliation:Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water
The Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water has a no-rinse formula that cleanses your skin without making it greasy. It contains thermal mineral water and botanical extracts that can take off the most stubborn makeup with ease. This product is a blend of six essential oils, including lavender, rosemary, and sage, which nurture your skin. It is infused with Japanese skin care technology and also contains lactic acid that provides gentle exfoliation. It is an excellent choice for post-workout cleansing, as it efficiently removes sweat and impurities, while also prepping the skin for further skincare routines. Click this video to check the clear demo of the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water.
- No artificial colors
- No synthetic fragrance
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Perfect for sensitive skin
None
Pro Tip4. Best In Skin-Friendly Ingredients:Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
Simple is a brand that is known for its no-fuss and skin-friendly products. This Micellar Cleansing Water by Simple is no exception. It hydrates your skin while clearing all the dirt and gunk from your face. This product is made with triple purified water and contains a blend of natural ingredients that your skin will love. It can boost your skin by up to 90%. Micellar water aids in deep pore cleansing by purifying the skin and effectively removing excess oil. If you have acne-prone skin or fungal acne, the Simple Micellar Cleansing Water is your best choice. The brand does not conduct animal testing to determine the product’s efficacy.
- Gentle
- No synthetic fragrance
- Hydrating formula
- No dyes
- No harsh chemicals
- Does not irritate your skin
- Dermatologically tested
- Ophthalmologist tested
None
Did You Know?5. Best Hydrating Formula:Oriental Botanics Aloe Vera, Green Tea & Cucumber Micellar Water
The Aloe Vera, Green Tea & Cucumber Micellar Water by Oriental Botanics can remove dirt and waterproof makeup. It effectively clears residue from your skin without stripping the natural oils. This micellar water contains aloe vera, green tea, and cucumber that keep the skin hydrated, refreshed, and healthy. It offers anti-aging benefits through its antioxidant properties, leaving the skin rejuvenated with its refreshing scent. It has a gentle yet potent formula, so you do not need to rub vigorously to remove makeup. This product minimizes skin damage and irritation resulting from constant rubbing and rinsing. A patch test is recommended.
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-irritating
- Perfect for everyday use
None
6. Best Gentle Formula:Lancome Eau Fraiche Doucher Micellar Cleansing Water
The Lancome Eau Fraiche Doucher Micellar Cleansing Water suits all skin types and is best suited for combination skin. The gentle formula of this micellar water takes your CTM (cleansing-toning-moisturizing) routine to the next level. It contains soothing rose extracts that improve the radiance of your skin. It is effective in balancing the pH levels of the skin and delivers exemplary brightening effects.
- Gentle
- Non-greasy
- Does not dry out your skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Expensive
7. Best Dermatologically Tested:Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
The Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water can effectively remove makeup and skin impurities and is suitable for all skin types. It is enriched with skin-friendly ingredients and leaves your skin feeling refreshed. This micellar water is incredibly gentle on your skin and can also be used for removing eye makeup and waterproof makeup. Its calming effects make it a perfect choice for gentle cleansing without rinsing. This product is dermatologically tested and will not irritate your skin and has not undergone testing on animals.
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Affordable
- Silicone-free
- Sulfate-free
- Does not dry out your skin
- May make oily skin oilier
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 45,820 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
8. Best pH-balanced Option:Christian Dior Hydra Life Micellar Water
The effective formula of the Christian Dior Hydra Life Micellar Water removes all your makeup instantly and tones your skin. This product contains soothing Echinacea flower extract. It improves skin elasticity and maintains its natural balance. The product also brightens your skin tone. It effectively cleanses the skin with its hydrating properties, while also improving its texture.
- Alcohol-free
- No artificial fragrance
- pH-balanced
- A little goes a long way
- Expensive
9. Best Toning Product:La Roche-Posay Micellar Water
Remove dirt, makeup, and impurities with the La Roche-Posay Micellar Water. It is infused with glycerin humectant and La Roche-Posay thermal spring water that helps to keep your skin hydrated and refreshed due to its excellent exfoliating properties. You can also use this water as face wash, toner, and makeup remover. In addition, the alcohol-free solution helps to soothe the skin and maintain the skin’s pH.
- Dermatologist recommended
- Dermatologist-tested
- Allergy tested
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 4,986 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
10. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Klorane Micellar water
Remove makeup and other impurities gently with the Klorane Micellar water. You can use this 3-in-1 product as a makeup remover, toner, and cleanser. This water effectively removes any traces of makeup from lips, eyes, and face making the skin soft and hydrated. It has organic cornflower water, a very gentle ingredient with a pH similar to that of tears. It does not irritate the skin and is ideal to be used on sensitive, allergy-prone skin. Moreover, it has been dermatologically and ophthalmologically-tested.
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Suitable for all skin types
- Ophthalmologist tested
- None
11. Best For Skin Refreshing:L’Oreal Micellar Cleansing Water
The L’Oreal Micellar Cleansing Water is a waterproof formula infused with tiny micelle molecules that remove even the most stubborn makeup. It effectively removes trapped dirt, excess oil, and makeup without any harsh rubbing. It hydrates the skin, minimizes the appearance of pores, and calms redness, leaving your skin feeling fresh and purified. Click this video about the L’Oreal Micellar Cleansing Water to learn more about the product.
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for all skin types
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- May leave an oily residue on the skin
These are the 11 best micellar waters that you can buy online. Micellar water suits all skin types. However, check the label before picking a product to find out the suitable skin type.
What Skin Types Can Use Micellar Water?
All skin types can use micellar water. It is ideal for dry, irritated, and sensitive skin and proven to deliver visible results. However, there are formulas available for different skin types. You will also find products specifically formulated to remove heavy makeup. Micellar water comes in handy when you have limited access to water while traveling and camping.
Micellar water can be used to tone the skin before you start your CTM routine and remove makeup residue. Here are the ways to use it effectively.
How Do You Use Micellar Water?
- To Cleanse And Tone Your Face In The Morning
Before applying your skin care products or makeup, use micellar water to remove any dirt and residue. Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water, wipe it all over your face, and then follow up with your skin care products.
- To Remove Makeup
Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water and wipe your face clean. To remove eye makeup, press and hold a saturated cotton pad on your eyelids for a few seconds and wipe.
- To Touch Up Makeup Mistakes
Messed up your winged eyeliner or smudged your kajal? You do not need to remove it entirely to correct the mistake. Use a cotton swab saturated with micellar water to fine-tune makeup mistakes.
- To Double Cleanse
If you want to deep-clean your face, use micellar water as the first step for a double cleansing routine. Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water and wipe away dirt and makeup. Follow up with a rinse-off facial cleanser.
You can use micellar water whenever you feel the need to cleanse your skin. However, before you buy one, consider the following points.
How To Pick The Right Micellar Water: Buying Guide
- Skin Type
Know your skin type before buying micellar water. There are products available for different skin types. Test and pick a formula that suits your skin.
- Formula
Go through the list of ingredients. Before picking a product, ensure that it does not contain any ingredient you might be allergic to.
- Quality
A good quality micellar water can improve the appearance of your skin. Go for products from a reputable brand and make sure the formula is enriched with high-quality ingredients to offer you the best results.
The Bottom Line
Micellar water is easy to use, gentle, and keeps your skin soft, supple, and smooth. There is no doubt that the products on the list will be a great addition to your beauty box. Try the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-up Removing Micelle Solution to help remove makeup and impurities without irritating the skin. The Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water gives you a refreshed cleansing experience by removing make-up, while soothing and fortifying your skin as well. Go for the Lancome Eau Fraiche Doucher Micellar Cleansing Water for its pH-balancing properties that enhance your skin texture. Go ahead and make this cult French skincare must-have a part of your beauty routine.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. Her skills and extensive knowledge of the topic have made her understand people’s requirements and needs regarding different skin care products. After extensive research, she compiled this list of the best micellar waters providing complete information on each one. She has also added a buying guide section to help you choose the best product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use micellar water to wash my face?
No, micellar water is not a good supplement for your cleansers. It cannot be used to wash your face.
Is it OK to use micellar water every day?
Yes, it is okay to use micellar water every day to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
Should micellar water be rinsed off?
Although it is not necessary to rinse off micellar water, it is good to rinse it off to get rid of any residues. People with sensitive skin should rinse it off to avoid irritation caused by the surfactants used in the micellar water.
Can micellar water damage your skin?
Micellar water is generally safe for all skin types, but the surfactants in the formula can irritate dry and sensitive skin types if not rinsed properly.
Is micellar water recommended by dermatologists?
Yes, dermatologists recommend micellar water for its gentle cleansing action.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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