What is micellar water? And how do I use it?

Models love them. Make-up artists won’t go anywhere without them. And you’re sure to find a bottle sitting in every single beauty editor’s bathroom. Yes, micellar waters are possibly the best skin care invention yet.
But what actually is micellar water? Are its ingredients a superdrug, and what makes it such a highly valued beauty product? Let’s find out…
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WHAT IS MICELLAR WATER?
Originating in France, micellar water gained its name because of the micelles oil molecules in its water-like formula of ingredients. When applied to the skin, these molecules latch onto the dirt, make-up and other impurities sitting on your skin, removing them in an effective and gentle matter. They feel – and look – like a toner, but excel at cleansing the skin, while also leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. There’s no need to rinse after using micellar water, making it a skin-loving version of the traditional face wipe. They’re great for all skin types, too, but particularly those with oily or sensitive complexions as micellar waters efficiently clean the skin without causing irritation.
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HOW DO I USE MICELLAR WATER?
Simply squirt some of the product onto a make-up remover pad (not tissues – they’re no where near as effective) and gently wipe it across your eye area and face until all make-up is removed. Micellar waters aren’t designed to be rinsed off, however if your skin type requires a deeper clean, follow up with your regular cleanser. Micellar cleansing water can be useful for oily skin and acne.
RELATED: Which cleanser should you be using?
5 OF THE BEST MICELLAR WATERS
- Garnier Skin Naturals Micellar Cleansing Water
This bad boy is a steal at $12.99 for 400mL. Its formula is exceptional for removing make-up, impurities, and sebum without the need for rubbing.
- BIODERMA Sensibio H20
You’ll spot more bottles of this micellar water than models backstage at Fashion Week. It’s cult status is all thanks to its super-gentle, fragrance-free formula, which easily removes the grime on your face while also leaving your skin soothed and nourished.
- NIVEA Gentle Caring Micellar Water - Sensitive Skin
NIVEA's magnificent micellar water was a hit with our Trial Team, with 80 per cent of triallers saying they would recommend it to remove make-up. There's also no need for a toner after use!
- Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
Free from artificial fragrances and colours, this formula contains multi-vitamins and triple purified water to help boost hydration and reduce irritation.
- Sukin Micellar Cleansing Water
Natural beauty enthusiasts rave about this cleanser, which boasts soothing aloe vera and calming chamomile and cucumber ingredients. It's also sweetly scented with a hint of vanilla extract.
Have you heard of micellar water? Do you currently use it? Are you keen to try it?
Have you tried any of the products mentioned above?
Review them now to earn points that you can swap for free beauty products in RewardsRoom.
225 Member Comments
I honestly love micellar water for so many reasons.
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Micellar water is such a blessing! I use a Bioten one and this works wonders for me (I prefer this over some of the bigger brands).
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micellar has so many different uses, especially great for when you are camping at a place with no or limited water. Also good for cleaning your face in the winter - spend less time in a cold bathroom
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Not totally impressed with micellar water.
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Can anyone recommend a cruelty free micelles waterplease? Or any of the tried & tested from the beauty heaven staff? as Garner is certainly not , and I can’t use the Sukin as daily use over a week gave me atopic dermatitis,
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Ok.. That's settled.. I'm going to buy some tomorrow!!! Only problem is, which one? Hmm..
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Amazing at how fast makeup is removed
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I love how fast these work and are so effective at removing all makeup
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I prefer cleansing milk to takeoff my makeup. I have bought the Garnier Micellar water but haven't used it yet.
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I just love the Garnier Micellar cleansing water . It really is incredibly gentle on my skin and cleans really well. Highly recommend it!
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Micellar water is the best invention ever!!!!
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micellar is just the best!!!
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I've tried a few different micellar waters including garnier but my absolute favourite is the Suhkin micellar water. It gives a good but gentle clean.
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This is the same as a face toner but l rather stick with the one l got.
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Haven't been too sure on buying it yet but after this read i'm convinced, sounds like a god send
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This was an interesting article. I love my cleansing oil and from I can tell it is a similar product.
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I heard so much about micellar water so one day I brought the garnier one and I love it. I use to remove my make up, sometimes I use it as a toner after I use a scrub. I also use it to clean mt face before I wax, it removes any dirt/residue off my face and my result with waxing has improved so much. Such a versatile product and it is so gentle on my skin
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The Simple one is my daily makeup remover - love it!
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i use micellar for my day routine, quick and easy
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I've been contemplating using the Micella Water but after reading other peoples comments I'm sold. Sounds perfect for me
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This is the best product
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I use one of the Garnier Micellar waters every day - and even have my son using it now.
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I use this all the time. It's so quick and easy especially when I'm tired and just want to get to bed.
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Micellar water is every lazy girl's dream product.
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Oh I love this!! I have to buy some now!!
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