SORTED: The Best Micellar Water to Suit Your Skin Type

Whether you’re a fan of the double cleanse or not, micellar water is an essential step in every beauty aficionado’s skincare routine.

The magical elixir may look like ordinary water. But its ability to remove makeup—even hard-to-budge formulas like waterproof mascaras—is second to none.

In this guide, we share everything you need to know about micellar water:

• What is micellar water?

• How to use micellar water

• The best micellar waters for every skin type

First of All, What Is Micellar Water? Is Micellar Water a Toner?

Micellar water, also known as cleansing water, is a water-like solution that’s loaded with microscopic micelles.

Micelles are double-ended molecules that purify the skin (and hair) without drying.

What makes micellar water a must-have in a skincare routine is its ability to cleanse and remove even waterproof makeup without the need for rinsing afterwards.

So, although micellar water looks like toner, it’s really a cleanser.

Now Here Are the Best Micellar Water to Suit Your Skin Type...

The Best Micellar Water for Dry Skin

What it is: mesoestetic micellar biphasic 150ml

Why we love it: This micellar water is truly mesmerising as it features two layers that require mixing before use.

One liquid is the micellar solution. The other liquid is a sunflower seed blend that’s rich in omega-6 fatty acids to increase skin suppleness, elasticity, and smoothness.

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The Best Micellar Water for Acne Prone Skin or Oily Skin

What it is: Bioderma Sebium H20 Micelle Solution

Bioderma is *the* undisputed original micellar water brand. The Bioderma range of micellar waters caters to every skin type.

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a micellar cleansing water for oily skin, reach for Bioderma Sebium H20 Micelle Solution.

What makes this product unique is the added skincare benefits in the formula.

Purifying agents zinc gluconate and copper sulphate enhance the water’s cleaning action and limit your skin’s oil production.

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The Best Micellar Water for Combination Skin

What it is: A good micellar water to try for combo skin is Clinique All-in-One Cleansing Micellar Milk + Makeup Remover III/IV

Why we love it: A milky formula that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, this product is free from parabens, phthalates, and fragrance.

It’s a top choice if you have sensitive skin or you usually wear contact lenses.

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The Best Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin

What it is: Payot Crème No 2 Eau Lactee Micellaire is the perfect thing to use on sensitive skin types.

Why we love it: The gentle, soothing formula is one of the best micellar waters we’ve come across because it contains probiotics that can actually repair damaged skin.

This Payot micellar water can also remove makeup and grime without irritating or stinging.

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The Best Travel Micellar Water

What it is: Medik8 Eye & Lips Micellar Cleanse

Why we love it: Want something practical to throw into your gym or travel bag? Medik8 Eye & Lips Micellar Cleanse is just the thing.

This vegan, cruelty-free formula works hard to remove products and impurities while it nourishes skin with hyaluronic acid.

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Now that we've shared some of our fave micellar waters for the different skin types, let's get into some of your common questions around using micellar water...

Is Micellar Water Good for Your Skin?

Yes, micellar water is good for your skin.

Most formulas contain soothing and moisturising ingredients, making micellar water a true multitasker.

Many brands actually recommend that you *not* use a serum or moisturiser afterwards!

How to Use Micellar Water

Using micellar water is super-simple.

Just moisten a cotton pad with your chosen formula and swipe the cleanser straight onto your skin to remove foundation and the like.

To remove waterproof makeup, soak a cotton pad in micellar water and hold the pad in a particular spot (such as your closed eye to remove mascara) for a few seconds.

This gives those tiny micelles time to work their magic. Then you can wipe away your makeup easily.

Should You Use Micellar Water as the First or Second Cleanse?

You should treat micellar water like a makeup remover.

As such, you should use micellar water for the first cleanse. Then, use a cleansing gel, milk, or cream for the second cleanse.

And there you have it! Everything you need to know about using micellar water.

If you're still keen to find out more about the wide world of cleansing, check out these guides below...

• Everything You Need to Know About the Types of Cleansers (and How to Find the Best One for You)

• 3 Signs You're Over-Cleansing and What You Can Do Instead

• Meet the 8 Best Facial Cleansers for Those on a Budget (Under $35)

• But Seriously, Do I Really Need a Cleanser?

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