Can I use Bioderma Sensibio H2O as my only cleanser?

When do I need a second cleanser?

Decide by what you need to remove, rather than treating two cleansers as a compulsory routine. Micellar water removes dirt, oil and most makeup, but general micellar water guidance calls for a gentle oil or water based cleanser afterwards when removing sunscreen or cosmetics. A second cleanser has a job when there is sunscreen or makeup to remove, not merely because the bathroom shelf has room for one. If you wear makeup and have acne, remove the makeup before bed and then wash with a gentle cleanser without scrubbing.12

Does it really count as cleansing?

Yes. Micelles are tiny clusters of cleansing molecules that attract and lift away dirt, oil and makeup. Sensibio H2O is a cleanser, not a toner with an unusually ambitious name. Plain water is different: removing dirt that sticks to skin and dissolves in oil requires a surfactant, a cleansing agent that loosens oil and dirt. A product does not need to feel like soap to perform that job.13

How should I use Sensibio H2O?

Bioderma's German directions for regular Sensibio H2O specify use in the morning and/or evening, every day, on the face and eye area. Sensibio H2O eye is a separate product.4

1. 1Soak a cotton pad with Sensibio H2O. Bioderma suggests a washable pad where possible.
2. 2Gently cleanse your face and remove makeup from your face and eyes. Avoid scrubbing.
3. 3If removing sunscreen or cosmetics, follow with a gentle cleanser. Massage that cleanser with your fingertips, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after cleansing. Finish your morning routine with sunscreen.

Do I have to rinse it off?

No. Bioderma tells you that Sensibio H2O does not require rinsing. That instruction concerns leaving the micellar water on your skin; it is separate from whether you need another cleanser to remove sunscreen or makeup. If you add a rinse off cleanser, rinse that cleanser completely. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, because hot water can strip the skin's protective barrier and increase dryness and irritation.46

What if my skin is dry or sensitive?

Sensibio H2O is fragrance free and designed for sensitive skin. Keep the technique gentle as well as the product: scrubbing irritates skin, and excessive washing can remove its surface oils and lead to dryness or dermatitis, meaning inflamed skin. Stinging during or just after cleansing is a feature of sensitive skin, not a reason to scrub more. Stop using a cleanser that causes redness, itching or swelling. See a dermatologist if cleansing repeatedly leaves your skin uncomfortable or inflamed. For a second cleanser, choose a gentle, fragrance free option rather than a scrub.3456

Will using it alone help acne?

Micellar water cleans skin; it does not treat acne or erase wrinkles. If you have acne, look for cleansers labelled "oil free," "won't clog pores" or "noncomedogenic." Do not assume a sensitive skin cleanser carries those claims. If you already use an acne treatment that stays on your skin, be careful about adding a medicated cleanser: too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. Keep cleansing separate from acne treatment, and ask a dermatologist for help if you cannot identify what is causing ongoing breakouts.123

How often should I cleanse?

Cleanse when you wake up, before bed and after sweating. Morning washing removes dirt and bacteria that settle on your face overnight; evening washing removes makeup and the day's grime. Whether you use Sensibio H2O alone or follow it with another cleanser depends on what is on your skin at that wash.5