Micellar water for sensitive skin

What does micellar water actually do?

Micellar water contains purified water, moisturizers and micelles, which are tiny clusters of cleansing molecules. These lift dirt, oil and makeup from the skin.1

A surfactant is a cleansing ingredient with one part that attaches to oil and another that interacts with water, allowing oily dirt to be removed. Cleansing performance depends on the combination of surfactants and the material being removed. Different oils do not all lift away in the same way, so the formula matters more than the word "micellar" alone.34

How do you choose one for sensitive skin?

Start with a cleanser made for sensitive skin. Fragrance can cause reactions, and some botanical ingredients, including lavender and rose oil, can cause contact allergy. "Hypoallergenic" products can still irritate skin.3

Sensitive skin often stings during or just after cleansing and is more likely to be dry. Sensitivity can also accompany conditions such as eczema, rosacea or psoriasis. Treat stinging as a reason to reconsider the cleanser or how you use it, not as a sign that cleansing is working.3

How to use micellar water

1. 1Apply a small amount to your hands or a cotton pad.
2. 2Spread it gently over your face. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing sensitive skin.
3. 3Follow with a gentle oil or water based cleanser when removing sunscreen or cosmetic products, especially heavy or waterproof makeup.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after cleansing, and finish with sunscreen in the morning.

You can use micellar water in the morning, before bed, or both. Avoid repeated cleansing simply to chase a stronger clean feeling: excessive washing removes the skin's oil film, increases water loss and can leave skin dry and irritated.13

Should sensitive skin rinse micellar water off?

Micellar water usually does not require rinsing. Rosacea changes that decision: cleanser left on the skin can cause irritation, so rinse gently and thoroughly with warm water using your fingertips. Skip washcloths and facial sponges, and pat dry with a clean cotton towel.12

What results should you expect?

The benefit is cleansing during use, not a treatment result after weeks. Micellar water removes everyday grime and most makeup, but it does not treat acne or erase wrinkles. It is a cleanser, not a toner.1

What if you have rosacea?

Choose fragrance free rather than unscented products, and test new skincare before applying it across your face. Avoid formulas containing alcohol, camphor, fragrance, glycolic acid, lactic acid, menthol, sodium lauryl sulfate or urea. Do not add an astringent or toner to the routine.2

Cleanse gently when you wake up and before bed. Use your fingertips without rubbing, scrubbing or massaging. Apply rosacea medication before moisturizer. Wait until your face is dry before applying moisturizer to reduce burning or stinging. A cream is preferable to a lotion or gel, and moisturizer is useful whether your skin feels dry or oily. If finding a tolerable cleanser is difficult, ask your dermatologist for specific product suggestions.2

What if your sensitivity comes with psoriasis?

For psoriasis, use a gentle, moisture rich cleanser made for sensitive skin. Avoid deodorant soaps and scrubs, wash with your hands, and rinse thoroughly with warm rather than hot water. After a bath or shower, blot gently, leave skin slightly damp and apply fragrance free moisturizer within five minutes. A thick cream or ointment works best; a fragrance free lotion is an option if those feel too heavy.5

Can you use it alongside acne treatments?

Be cautious about combining an acne treatment cleanser with acne products that stay on your skin. Too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. When cleansing is already uncomfortable, adding treatment ingredients to the cleansing step is not automatically an improvement.3

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a cleanser that triggers irritation, itching or swelling. Cleansers can cause irritant reactions or contact allergy, and changing bottles will not necessarily address an underlying skin condition. For itchy skin, use an unperfumed moisturizer regularly and avoid perfumed soaps and moisturizers. A pharmacist can help you choose suitable products.36

See a doctor if itching:

• Is severe, affects daily life or occurs all over your body.
• Does not improve with self care or keeps returning.
• Comes with a new rash, lump or swelling that worries you.
• Occurs during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor or midwife because pregnancy itching sometimes has a cause that needs medical assessment.