Does micellar water go before or after face wash?

Why does micellar water go first?

Micellar water contains micelles, tiny clusters of cleansing molecules that attract and lift away dirt, oil and makeup. That makes micellar water useful as the makeup removal step before your regular cleanser. Very heavy or waterproof makeup can need an additional cleanser rather than micellar water alone.1

Toner belongs after cleansing, on clean, dry skin. If you use toner, keep it separate from the micellar water step rather than treating the two watery products as interchangeable.1

How to use micellar water with face wash

1. 1Apply a small amount of micellar water to your hands, a cotton pad or a reusable microfiber cloth. Gently work it over your face without scrubbing.
2. 2Follow with a gentle face wash when removing makeup or sunscreen. Massage the cleanser gently over your skin.
3. 3Rinse the face wash off with lukewarm water, then pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Avoid hot water because it can dry your skin.
4. 4Continue with toner and any usual spot treatments, then moisturizer. In the morning, sunscreen goes after your other skincare products and before makeup.

Micellar water does not typically need rinsing when used on its own. If you are following it with face wash, the face wash still needs rinsing off. The two situations have different finishing steps.12

Do you need both every time?

No. For most people, one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is enough, and an extra bottle does not automatically earn a place in the routine. A separate makeup removal step is more useful when you wear makeup, particularly waterproof makeup, or water resistant sunscreen. If you are not removing those products, there is no need to make two cleansers your default.2

Traditional double cleansing uses an oil based cleanser followed by a water based cleanser. Micellar water before a water based face wash is an alternative makeup removal routine; you do not have to add an oil cleanser as a third step. Choose the cleansing method you need rather than combining every method.2

Should you use it morning or night?

Micellar water can be your morning cleanser or your evening makeup removal step. Remove makeup before bed. General face washing guidance is to wash when you get up, before bed and after sweating; that does not mean using two cleansers on every occasion. Choose a mild cleanser suited to your skin: a hydrating cleanser for dry skin, or a mild cleanser that removes oil for oily, acne prone skin.13

What if your skin is dry or sensitive?

Micellar water is generally a gentle option for dry or sensitive skin. For a following face wash, choose a gentle, unscented cleanser; cream cleansers are less drying than foaming cleansers. Extra cleansing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin barrier, your skin's protective outer layer. Do not scrub, and stop using a product immediately if it irritates your skin. If eczema or rosacea affects your quality of life, see a dermatologist rather than adding more cleansing steps.123