What is the difference?
| Feature | Micellar water | Toner |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Cleans dirt, oil and most makeup. | Adds hydration or targets concerns, depending on the formula. |
| Formula | Water, moisturizers and micelles: tiny clusters of cleansing molecules. | Usually water based, with hydrating ingredients or actives such as exfoliating acids. |
| Texture | Lightweight liquid that feels much like water. | Usually a watery liquid; some come as sprays. |
| Routine position | At the cleansing step. | After cleansing and before moisturizer. |
| Makeup removal | Designed for removal, though heavy or waterproof makeup can need another cleanser. | Can remove leftover traces, but does not replace cleansing. |
| Rinsing | Usually unnecessary; follow the product directions. | Leave it on after applying. |
Which should you choose?
- Choose micellar water for gentle cleansing, particularly if your skin is dry or sensitive. It removes grime without stripping away much of the skin's natural oil.
- Choose a hydrating toner for extra moisture after cleansing. Look for glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
- Consider an acid toner for clogged pores or uneven texture. Glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids can help unclog pores and make them look smaller, but they do not change genetically determined pore size.
- Use both only if each has a job in your routine. Neither replaces moisturizer or daily sun protection.
How do you use them together?
- 1Apply micellar water with your hands or a saturated cotton pad, following the label. Move gently rather than scrubbing.
- 2Follow with a gentle cleanser when removing sunscreen or cosmetic products, particularly heavy or waterproof makeup.
- 3Apply toner to clean, dry skin by gently swiping it on or misting it over your face. Do not rinse it off.
- 4Follow with your usual treatments and moisturizer, then sunscreen in the morning.
Micellar water can be your morning cleanser, evening cleanser or both. Limit face washing to twice daily and after heavy sweating. A gentle toner can be used once or twice daily; start strong acid toners every other day and increase only as your skin tolerates them.124
Does micellar water need rinsing?
Many formulas are designed to stay on. CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water has no rinse directions: shake it, saturate a cotton pad and gently wipe. For eye makeup, CeraVe tells you to hold the pad over a closed eye for a few seconds first. Bioderma Sensibio H2O is also designed for cleansing without rinsing.56
What results should you expect?
Micellar water cleans during use; it does not treat acne or erase wrinkles. Toner changes are usually subtle and take six weeks to three months. Formulas targeting acne or dark patches can take about two to three months.12
For sensitive skin, avoid heavily fragranced toners and formulas with lots of dyes. High alcohol formulas can be drying and irritating. Be careful about adding toner if you have rosacea and use prescription products. If you have concerns about irritation or caring for your skin, see a dermatologist.24
Products do not need to be expensive to be effective. Buying fewer products reduces costs and avoids stacking products that can irritate skin. Prioritize a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before adding toner.3
Where this answer comes from
- 1Micellar Water: What It Is and How To Use Ithealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 2What Does Toner Do for Your Face? 5 Benefitshealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 3Skin care on a budgetaad.org
- 4Face washing 101aad.org
- 5Hydrating Micellar Watercerave.com
- 6Sensibio H2O: The Original Micellar Waterbioderma.us
