Does micellar water cause acne?

What does micellar water actually do?

Micellar water contains clusters of cleansing molecules called micelles, which lift away dirt, oil and most makeup. It cleans without stripping away much of your skin's natural oils and is a useful option for dry or sensitive skin. Micellar water removes more than plain water, despite a name that gives most of the credit to the least interesting part. It is a cleanser, not a toner, because even clear liquids have separate job descriptions.1

How should you use it?

1. 1Apply a small amount to your hands, a cotton pad or a reusable microfiber cloth.
2. 2Gently massage it over your face without harsh scrubbing.
3. 3Follow with a gentle cleanser when removing sunscreen or cosmetics, especially heavy or waterproof makeup.
4. 4Apply your usual spot treatments, then moisturizer. Finish with sunscreen in the morning.

You can use micellar water in the morning, before bed or both. It typically does not need rinsing off. Removing makeup and sunscreen thoroughly is a separate issue from whether the micellar water itself needs rinsing.1

What if you notice new breakouts?

Products applied to skin or hair can cause acne by clogging pores. Stopping a suspected product is general guidance for product related acne, not a diagnosis based on which bottle you bought last. Look for labels such as "oil free," "noncomedogenic" or "won't clog pores" when choosing a replacement; noncomedogenic means formulated not to clog pores.2

Check other products that reach your face, too. Oils in shampoos, conditioners and styling products can clog pores and cause whiteheads or tiny bumps along the hairline and forehead. Bumps at the back of the neck can also point toward hair products. Even someone who has never had acne can develop these breakouts. If hair products seem responsible, wash their residue from pillowcases, sheets, hats and headbands as well as stopping the offending product.2

How long should clearing take?

Acne caused by hair products can take 4 to 6 weeks to clear after you stop them. See a dermatologist if those breakouts have not cleared within 6 weeks. Micellar water itself does not treat acne. Acne friendly skincare and acne medication help prevent new breakouts, so changing your cleanser is not a substitute for treating ongoing acne.123