Micellar water for different skin types

What does micellar water do?

Micellar water is a liquid cleanser and makeup remover with mild cleansing agents. Micellar water can replace a face wash in some routines, so the sink does not need a supporting role in every cleanse.1

Which formula suits your skin?

Dry skin: Keep cleansing gentle

A hydrating micellar formula is one option for dry skin. If you prefer a wash off cleanser, creamy formulas tend to provide more hydration than foaming or gel cleansers, which can dry skin out. Apply moisturizer after cleansing if your skin is dry or itchy. A cleanser's job is to remove what is on your face; a hydrating label does not replace the moisturizer step.123

Sensitive skin: The formula and the wiping both matter

Choose a gentle, nonabrasive cleanser without alcohol. Mild products and products marketed for sensitive skin are useful starting points. A pH balanced label is another useful clue: pH describes how acidic or alkaline something is, and adult skin is normally slightly acidic. Avoid using ordinary body bar soap as a substitute for facial cleanser, because its higher pH can strip natural oils and disrupt that balance.35

For example, CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water contains glycerin, three ceramides and niacinamide, and is fragrance free. CeraVe lists it for all skin types, including sensitive and eczema prone skin, and for contact lens wearers.1

Oily and combination skin: Do not chase a stripped feeling

For oily skin, look for oil free, noncomedogenic products and avoid alcohol based cleansers. If you use a separate face wash, a mild foaming formula is an option. Stronger is not automatically better: an overly harsh wash can irritate skin and increase oil production. Apply moisturizer after cleansing to maintain hydration. For combination skin, use the same gentle cleansing approach and apply moisturizer to dry areas; these are general cleansing principles rather than a special micellar technique.4

Keep routine face washing to morning and evening, plus after heavy sweating. Resist adding extra cleanses whenever shine appears. Blotting papers can absorb oil during the day: press gently, leave the paper against your face briefly, and do not rub it around.34

Acne prone skin: Separate cleansing from treatment

Removing makeup and surface oil is different from treating acne. Acne face washes commonly contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide fights bacteria and clogged pores and reduces inflammation; salicylic acid helps with inflammation and dries out pimples. Do not choose a harsh exfoliating cleanser simply because you have breakouts. Excess exfoliation can leave skin dry and irritated and make acne worse. If an acne product causes irritation, stop using it or use it less often.24

How do you use micellar water?

Follow your bottle's directions. For CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water:

1. 1Shake the bottle well.
2. 2Saturate a cotton pad.
3. 3For eye makeup, hold the pad over a closed eye for a few seconds, then wipe gently.
4. 4Continue with your routine; CeraVe says rinsing is unnecessary.

If you follow with a face wash, wet your face with lukewarm water and apply cleanser with your fingertips. Massage gently without scrubbing, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a soft towel. Washcloths and mesh sponges can irritate skin. Be gentle around your eyes rather than pulling on the skin.3

Do you need to rinse or cleanse again?

Follow the formula's directions rather than treating every micellar water identically. Some can replace face wash; CeraVe's is rinse free and designed to remove longwear makeup. Heavy makeup can need a dedicated remover, because longwear makeup takes its job rather literally.1

When should you change course?

Ongoing dryness, flaking, itching or irritation deserves a review of your cleansing habits and products with a dermatologist. Do not assume these symptoms identify a pH problem. If acne does not improve with products available without a prescription, seek medical advice. Deep, cystic acne usually needs medical treatment rather than a different makeup remover.25