Does micellar water work?

How does micellar water work?

Micellar water contains surfactants, meaning cleansing molecules that help oily material mix with water so it can be removed. These molecules have a water attracting end and an oil attracting end. In water, they gather into tiny clusters called micelles, with the water attracting parts facing outward and the oil attracting parts tucked inside. The clusters capture oily material, including skin oil and makeup. Wiping with a soaked pad transfers that material off your face and onto the pad. Plain water cannot do the same job with oily residue.23

Micelles also form in other cleansers, so the name does not give micellar water exclusive custody of cleansing. Gentleness depends on the whole formula, including how the cleansing molecules interact with skin. Surfactants can remove some of the skin's own protective components as well as unwanted grime. Cleansers designed to limit those interactions help preserve the skin barrier, the outer layer that protects skin and holds moisture in.3

How should you use micellar water?

1. 1Apply a small amount to your hands or a cotton pad. Fingertips are a useful option if wiping tools irritate your skin.
2. 2Gently massage or sweep it over your face. Do not scrub or keep rubbing to force makeup off.
3. 3If you are removing sunscreen or cosmetic products, follow with a gentle oil or water based cleanser. Rinse that cleanser with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
4. 4Apply your usual treatments after cleansing, then moisturizer. Finish your morning routine with sunscreen.

Double cleansing means using two cleansers in sequence, not giving the same job a more impressive title. Micellar water can be the first cleanser when removing makeup. If you are not wearing makeup, routinely adding another cleanser is unnecessary and can make skin drier.5

Do you have to rinse it off?

Micellar water typically does not need rinsing. That is separate from whether you need another cleanser to finish removing makeup or sunscreen. A no rinse format also does not mean cleansing molecules never interact with skin: surfactants can remain in the outer skin layer even after rinsing.13

How often should you use it?

Use micellar water in the morning, at night, or both. Most people should cleanse twice daily and after heavy sweating. Dry or sensitive skin can suit a morning wash with water alone and cleanser at night. If you only cleanse once daily, choose the evening to remove the day's buildup. More washing is not automatically better: each wash removes some natural oils, and overwashing can leave skin drier. There is no universal requirement to cleanse for a full minute.45

Who does it suit, and what should you expect?

Micellar water is a useful option for dry and sensitive skin because mild cleansing agents remove less of the skin's natural oils. Expect cleansing, not acne treatment or wrinkle removal. Choose a gentle cleanser without alcohol. If cleansing leaves skin dry or irritated, switch to a gentler cleanser or use a thicker moisturizer.145

For Bioderma Sensibio H2O specifically, a 28 day survey followed 400 users, 82% of whom reported sensitive skin. Users reported fewer unpleasant sensations, including itching, tightness, tingling and burning, from day two, with further improvement at days 14 and 28. The measurements were users' questionnaire responses during their usual face care routines. For concerns about caring for sensitive or uncomfortable skin, a dermatologist can help you choose an appropriate cleansing routine.46