Oil cleanser or micellar water for removing makeup?

What the two cleansers do

Micellar water is a liquid cleanser made with purified water, humectants and mild surfactants. Its micelles, tiny clusters of cleansing molecules, attract and lift away oil, dirt and makeup. It is commonly applied with a cotton pad or cloth and wiped over the skin. Micellar water looks like plain water, and the word 'water' is doing fairly convincing undercover work for a liquid made with cleansing molecules. Oil based cleansers use oils and emollients to break down makeup, sunscreen, sweat and excess sebum. A cleansing balm is one format: it is solid or buttery, and a little water turns it into a milky texture. Balms are designed for heavy makeup without scrubbing, while micellar water is a convenient fit for light makeup.13

The formula matters as much as the format. CeraVe's US page says its Hydrating Micellar Water removes longwear makeup, but that product specific detail does not mean every micellar water removes waterproof makeup. Check the directions for the bottle you have.4

Which should I pick for my makeup?

Choose micellar water for a light layer of makeup, a quick cleanse, or a no rinse option. It usually calls for a cotton pad, so it is less convenient if you do not have one nearby. It removes most makeup, but very heavy or waterproof makeup can need another cleanser. Choose an oil based cleanser when you wear heavy makeup, waterproof makeup or sunscreen. Massage it over the skin to loosen the residue, then rinse. If makeup remains after micellar water, you can use an oil based cleanser or a gentle water based cleanser afterward. You do not need to use both formats every night just because they fit together in a routine.12

What if my skin is sensitive or acne prone?

Micellar water is a reasonable first choice for dry or sensitive skin because it is a gentle cleanser and does not require emulsifying an oil or balm. Some people with very sensitive or acne prone skin may also prefer it if that process feels too harsh. If you have acne prone skin, an oil based cleanser can cause breakouts, especially when used alone. Rinse it thoroughly and follow with a gentle water based cleanser if needed. If you suspect makeup is causing breakouts, the American Academy of Dermatology advises stopping the suspected makeup, using an oil free makeup remover and avoiding scrubbing. A dermatologist can help if the cause is unclear.1235

How do I remove makeup with either one?

1. 1Remove makeup before bed, including eye makeup. Use gentle pressure; scrubbing is not needed to make a cleanser work harder.
2. 2For micellar water, put some on a cotton pad or reusable cloth, then wipe gently over the face. You can also apply it with your hands and massage it over the skin.
3. 3For waterproof or heavy makeup, massage an oil based cleanser over the skin, then rinse with lukewarm water. For a balm, add a little water to emulsify it into a milky texture before rinsing.
4. 4If you still have makeup or sunscreen to remove, follow with a gentle water based cleanser. Rinse that cleanser off and pat your skin dry.
5. 5Use the exact product directions for a named formula. Micellar water is usually no rinse, while oil cleansers and balms are generally rinsed away.

How often should I use one?

Use makeup remover in the evening before bed. Micellar water can also be used in the morning; CeraVe directs people to use its Hydrating Micellar Water morning and evening. Follow the directions on your own product, especially if it is a specific formula. Double cleansing means using an oil based cleanser first and a water based cleanser second; it is useful for removing makeup or sunscreen, but one thorough cleanse with a gentle cleanser is enough for most people.245

Is cleansing oil better than micellar water?

Neither is better for every job. Micellar water is the simpler pick for light makeup and a quick no rinse cleanse; an oil based cleanser is better suited to heavy or waterproof makeup. Choose based on what you need to remove, then use a second cleanser only if makeup or sunscreen remains.1

Which is better for waterproof makeup, cleansing oil or micellar water?

An oil based cleanser is usually the better first choice for waterproof makeup. Some formulas have broader claims: CeraVe's US Hydrating Micellar Water page describes its product as effective on longwear makeup.24

Do I need to rinse micellar water off?

Usually, no. Micellar water is commonly made as a no rinse cleanser, and CeraVe says there is no need to rinse its Hydrating Micellar Water. If you are removing sunscreen or heavy makeup, follow with a gentle cleanser that you rinse off rather than repeatedly wiping the skin.34