Should I rinse off Bioderma Sensibio H2O?

What does Bioderma tell you to do?

Bioderma's US, UK and German directions all say that standard Sensibio H2O needs no rinsing. The UK version explicitly describes a formula intended to be left on, while the German directions finish after gently wiping the face and eyes. Leaving it on is the intended use, not an unfinished face wash, which is a rare case of skincare giving you less homework.134

How should I use Sensibio H2O?

1. 1Soak a cotton pad with Sensibio H2O. Bioderma's UK directions suggest a reusable pad.
2. 2Gently wipe your face and remove makeup from your face and eyes. The US directions also include your neck.
3. 3For heavy or longwear eye makeup, let the soaked pad sit on your eyelids for a few seconds before gently removing the makeup.
4. 4Leave standard Sensibio H2O on after wiping. No water rinse is required.
5. 5If you are removing sunscreen or cosmetics, follow with a gentle oil or water based cleanser as general cleansing guidance.
6. 6Continue with your usual skincare after cleansing. Finish with moisturizer, and use sunscreen in the morning.

You can use Sensibio H2O in the morning, evening or both. Bioderma's US and German directions allow daily use, seven days a week. Its job in the routine is cleansing and makeup removal; micellar water is not a toner, even though both arrive looking suspiciously like water.234

When should I use a second cleanser?

The reason to add a cleanser is what you are trying to remove, not a requirement to wash away Sensibio H2O itself. Micellar water removes dirt, oil and most makeup, but heavy or waterproof makeup can need an additional cleanser. General guidance also puts a gentle second cleanser after micellar water when removing sunscreen or cosmetic products. For a simple morning cleanse, micellar water can be the cleansing step on its own.2

What if I have sensitive skin?

Sensibio H2O is marketed for all skin types, specifically including sensitive skin, and for adults and teenagers. The standard product is unfragranced. Micellar water generally uses mild cleansing agents and removes grime without stripping away much of the skin's natural oils, making it an option for dry or sensitive skin. Sensitive skin alone is not a reason to add a rinse to Bioderma's directions.12

What should I expect if I leave it on?

Bioderma describes the UK product's finish as neither greasy nor sticky. Cleansing happens during use; the longer term soothing results are a separate benefit. In a clinical study of 21 participants over 28 days, 81% reported more soothed skin without rinsing. Keep the purpose clear: micellar water cleans skin, but it does not treat acne or erase wrinkles.12

Is Sensibio H2O Eye different?

Sensibio H2O Eye is a separate two phase makeup remover for waterproof eye and lip makeup, but it also needs no rinsing. Its directions are to shake well, soak a cotton pad and remove makeup. Use the Eye product daily for those areas; do not substitute its shake first directions or waterproof makeup claims for the standard face product.5