Taking off your makeup after a hectic day or a wild night of partying can seem like a daunting task. This chore can be made easier if you invest in the best micellar waters, a one-step solution to remove makeup without having to wash your face. It is made up of micelles that are tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water along with glycerin or any other essential oil. These micelles act like magnets, attracting and lifting away dirt, oil, and makeup without the need for harsh rubbing or rinsing. 

What makes micellar water so special is its gentle formula that suits all skin types and cleanses the skin without making it dry. Be it removing stubborn Halloween makeup or dirt — micellar water is a one-stop solution for all your skin cleansing needs. Even the most stubborn makeup and waterproof mascaras can easily be wiped by saturating a cotton pad with clean micellar water. Micellar water is a versatile skincare essential and can be used as a standalone cleanser, makeup remover, or pre-cleansing step before using your regular cleanser. To help you select the right one, we tested various products, and based on the results and reviews, we have curated a list that will help you choose the best one.

• 1
  Best Fragrance-free

  GARNIER SKIN ACTIVE Micellar Cleansing Water

  Buy on Amazon

Garnier Skin Active micellar cleansing water is an all-in-one product that has a soothing formula and is safe to be used on the face, neck, lips, and even eyelids. It effectively cleanses the skin, removes makeup, and provides a refreshing glow, and hydration. Plus, it is oil-free and doesn't have any fragrance or alcohol. The best part about this product is that it is suitable for all skin types. Furthermore, other than being gentle, it doesn’t cause any irritation or inflammation on sensitive skin, while being soft and soothing on rough and parched skin.

2

Best Hydrating Formula

BIODERMA Micellar Water Makeup Remover

Buy on Amazon

Bioderma micellar water is formulated with the help of the best dermatologists. The product claims to remove 99% of the makeup while soothing, hydrating, and purifying the skin. Talking about its gentle formulation, it has glyceride and cucumber fruit extracts. Plus, it has a non-sticky formula that is free from alcohol, oil, and parabens. Based on our research, this natural micellar water provides freshness to the skin and doesn’t do anything to irritate the skin’s natural barrier. It is indeed a perfect buy if you use makeup everyday.

 

3

Gentle Formula

ISDIN Micellar Solution 4-in-1 Makeup Remover

Buy on Amazon

The best feature about this micellar water by ISDIN is that it is devoid of three common nasties that cause skin irritation — alcohol, fragrance, and soap, making it an incredible investment for all skin types. Despite not containing any harsh surfactants, this micellar solution works effectively in getting rid of buildup, including that from waterproof makeup products, which leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean, and fresh. We recommend using this product to double-cleanse your skin before hair removal or after exposure to outdoor pollutants throughout the day.

4

GARNIER SKIN NATURALS Micellar Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

Deep cleanse makeup, dirt, and other impurities with just one swipe using Garnier Skin Naturals’  micellar water. It is affordable and can be used as a way to replenish your skin after being out in the sun and dirt all day. Moreover, it has a watery texture and doesn’t make your skin greasy or oily. The best part about this product is that it can be used to remove both heavy and subtle makeup. Still confused about adding it to your cart? Well, don’t be. It is indeed a must-have to cleanse your skin thoroughly. 

 

5

Best to Remove Dirt

GARNIER SKIN ACTIVE Micellar Water - Blue

Buy on Amazon

This all-in-1 Garnier Skin Active micellar water is both gentle and powerful on the skin. It is oil-free, fragrance-free, and removes even the most stubborn waterproof makeup while rejuvenating and refreshing your skin. Based on our observations, it is a multi-purpose cleanser that contains micellar technology to help you get rid of dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing, thereby leaving skin perfectly cleansed and refreshed without over-drying. To be noted, shake well before directly wetting the cotton pad with this micellar water.

 

6

Best Skin-friendly

CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water

Buy on Amazon

Developed with the help of dermatologists and accepted by National Eczema Association, CeraVe Hydrating micellar water cleanses and hydrates your skin while removing stubborn makeup, impurities, and other microbes effortlessly. It is formulated with glycerin to retain the skin’s moisture, niacinamide to soothe inflammation, and 3 essential ceramides to help restore the skin barrier. And, as per our research, the product is non-comedogenic, paraben-free, and suitable for sensitive eyes owing to its non-irritating formula. 

 

7

Brightens Dull Skin

Simple Micellar Water

Buy on Amazon

Good skin starts with Simple micellar water that effectively blocks irritants, fights impurities, and retains moisture. It claims to be the most advanced yet the most gentle micellar facial cleanser. In addition to that, it is formulated with skin-loving ingredients like vitamin B3, vitamin C, citric acid, niacinamide, and other essential nutrients. When we tried this product, we found out that it is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t have any artificial fragrances or colors that can damage the skin.

 

8

Best for Contact Lens Wearers

BURT’S BEES Micellar Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

With Burt's Bees non-comedogenic oil-free micellar water, you can improve the appearance of your dull-looking skin. It is dermatologically and ophthalmologically-tested while being formulated with the currently hyped bakuchiol along with hyaluronic acid, squalene, aloe vera, coconut, and lotus water extracts that help in removing lingering makeup and unclogging the pores from dirt and oil. To note, this facial water is of 99.5% natural origin and is formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or SLS. Lastly, it is designed to suit all skin types and conditions.

 

9

Best Oil-free formula

L’OREAL SKIN EXPERT Micellar Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

The L’Oréal Skin Expert micellar cleansing water has been tested by dermatologists. It safely removes makeup, dirt, and impurities in one simple step without drying out the skin. The product is also carefully created to give you the perfect cleansing solution for your unique skin needs. In addition to that, it is cost-effective and minimizes the appearance of redness, and leaves your skin supple and hydrated. So, why wait? Give this alcohol-free product a try and you will be surprised at how easy it is to remove your makeup.

 

10

Best Exfoliation

sukin Micellar Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

Sukin’s micellar cleansing water is thoughtfully crafted with the goodness of aloe vera, rosebud oil, chamomile, and cucumber to refresh and calm your skin. These natural components also help in nourishing the skin, while providing an aromatic scent of vanilla and lavender to refresh your senses. Plus, the product is free of all harsh chemicals, colors, and mineral oils. Last but not the least, this lightly hydrating and gentle face cleanser can also be left on the skin as it is. There is no need to wash it off.

 

11

Best Natural Ingredients

ELEMIS Cleansing Micellar Water

Buy on Amazon

Elemis cleansing micellar water is a luxury product that is derived from handpicked English roses to provide a soothing and refreshing sensation. Plus, it is infused with apple amino acids, rosehip seed oil, and Indian soapnut to purify your skin while getting rid of impurities and maintaining your natural skin barrier. On top of that, it removes both oil-based and water-based dirt without leaving any greasy residue. 

 

12

Bioré CHARCOAL Cleansing Micellar Water

Buy on Amazon

Deep clean your pores with Bioré Charcoal cleansing micellar water that is specifically formulated for oily skin. It dissolves even the heaviest of makeup while maintaining your skin’s moisture. In addition to that, the product boasts two ingredients, charcoal, and baking soda, that you won’t usually find in other regular micellar waters. Furthermore, to be noted, these two ingredients are very beneficial in fighting acne. What’s more is that it is dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested, pH balanced, and an oil-free product. lly tested, pH balanced, and an oil-free product. 

 

13

epielle Micellar Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

Epielle’s micellar cleansing water comes with hyacinth, chamomile, glycerin, and a unique ingredient — cornflower extract that is gentle and comes with a pH balance similar to that of tears. To note further, the dermatologically-tested product doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, animal-derived surfactants, or artificial dyes, which makes it safe for everyday usage. Talking about its packaging, it comes with a spill-proof pump dispenser. And, it keeps your skin hydrated and can be used by oily, sensitive, and allergy-prone skin as well.

 

14

One Step Cleansing Water

Buy on Amazon

One Step’s non-toxic micellar water has a probiotics complex that protects the skin and strengthens the barrier. Moreover, made from natural plant-based derivatives like fermented beans, willow, cinnamon, oregano, cypress, portulaca, and skullcap root, it helps in calming the skin if you have inflammation or redness. Furthermore, if you are looking for a multipurpose product that not only removes the makeup but also exfoliates and hydrates the skin, then this is the one to go for.

 

Now that you know how useful and beneficial micellar waters are, you need to know how to select the best one from the list, based on a few key factors. Check out our buying guide below and find your perfect match. 

 

Micellar water originated in France in 1913 and was used by French women to wash their faces. As the name suggests, it's packed with tiny molecules called micelle that remove dirt, impurities, grime, oil, and makeup from the skin without stripping it off its natural oils. The hydrating ingredients, water, and gentle surfactants in the micellar water come together to remove dirt, grime, oil, and makeup from your skin. 

It's a highly popular product among makeup enthusiasts and skincare experts because of its versatility and gentle cleansing properties. And we are sure that once you start using it, you'll never say no to micellar water!

1. Micellar water helps cleanse the skin gently, leaving you with fresh and clear skin without making it dry. 

2. The hydrating formula of micellar water helps provide intense moisturization and promote the skin's natural barrier function, thereby improving skin elasticity and firmness. 

3. One of the major benefits of using micellar water is that it is suitable for all skin types. It doesn't matter if you have combination skin or deal with skin sensitivities — you need not think twice before adding micellar water to your skincare regimen, as it's gentle for all skin types. However, it's always advisable to do a patch test before using one to avoid side effects and allergies.

Here are some key points to help you make an informed decision:

• Skin Type: Analyze your skin type when selecting a micellar water. For instance, if you have oily skin, you may benefit from a mattifying or oil-controlling formula. And for people with dry or sensitive skin, micellar waters that are gentle and hydrating are a good option. Our contributor Dr. Rekha Singh, who is a dermatologist with a specialization in Aesthetic Dermatology, says, “One of the main selling points of micellar water is its gentleness, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, it's essential to check the ingredient list and make sure it doesn't contain any potential irritants. As a dermatologist, I always recommend patch-testing new products on a small area of skin before incorporating them into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin.”
• Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for any potential irritants or allergens, especially if you have sensitive skin. You need to avoid micellar waters with alcohol, fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals that can damage the moisture barrier or irritate your skin.
• Specific Concerns: Determine if you have any specific skin concerns, such as acne, dullness, or uneven skin tone. If so, you must look for micellar waters that address these issues and contain ingredients like salicylic acid for acne-prone skin or brightening agents for dull skin.
• Performance: Read the reviews and notice how effectively it gets rid of makeup, dirt, and impurities. 
• Additional Benefits: Some micellar waters offer added skincare benefits like moisturization, even skin tone, and smooth skin. Hence, if you are looking for specific benefits, choose a micellar water that aligns with your desired skincare goals. Adding to that, clearing certain myths about the wonder product, our contributor Dr. Rekha Singh, says, “One common concern about micellar water is that it may strip the skin of its natural oils or moisture. This fear stems from the fact that traditional cleansers often contain harsh ingredients that can be drying for the skin. However, micellar water is formulated to be gentle and non-stripping. Micelles have a unique structure that makes them effective at removing impurities without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier. They also have a neutral pH, which means they won't disrupt the skin's acid mantle – a protective layer that keeps bacteria and environmental irritants out.”

Conclusion:

Overall, the best micellar waters are versatile and can be a valuable addition to your skincare regime. They are easy to use and gentle on the skin. So, go ahead and select the one that suits your needs and demands the best. Yes, no more rubbing and scrubbing once you purchase this item. And, it’s a perfect alternative to fragranced wet wipes and directly washing your face to remove makeup.

Contributor: Beth Anundi, Expert of pre-owned luxury goods, CEO and Co-Founder at Capital Pawn