There’s been an explosion of micellar waters over the past year here in the USA. What the heck are these micellar waters that we’re seeing on shelves and why the explosion? Micellar Cleansing Water is defined as “a gentle fluid cleanser with an ingredient list that reads more like a gentle liquid makeup remover than a standard water-soluble cleanser. And not surprisingly, it’s applied exactly the same way, with a cotton pad that you wipe over the face, no need to rinse.”
Micellar cleansers are powerful yet gentle to the skin. They remove all of your makeup, clean the skin and leave you feeling refreshed. Some people use these waters as their only method of cleansing the face. I, however, choose to use a cleanser after removing my makeup with the water. The choice is personal.
These multi-purpose cleansers contain Micellar technology. Here’s the science behind them: Like a magnet, micelles capture and lift away dirt, oil and makeup without harsh rubbing, leaving skin perfectly clean and refreshed without over-drying. They come in several different formulas. Some are even designed to remove tough waterproof mascara formulas.
Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O was the first micellar water that I ever used. I had to purchase it online since it wasn’t available in the US yet. I even stocked up once on a trip to the UK before it was readily available in the US. I always have a backup bottle of this one in my stash. I have to be a bit careful not to get this one in my eyes because it tends to make them sting if I accidentally overdo it. They’ve come out with a few additional formulas. However, I haven’t tried those yet.
The Simple Micellar Cleansing Water is one of the first ones that comes to mind for me for people who have sensitive skin. This one is extra gentle. Like the rest of the Simple Skincare line, it is formulated for sensitive skin and is often recommended by dermatologists.
La Roche-Posay also makes a micellar water designed for sensitive skin. I like that this one is available at drugstores even thought it’s a higher end skincare line.
I picked up the Embyrolisse Micellar Water when I saw it at The Makeup Show in Dallas last June. Embryolisse is a very well-known French brand that has always gotten rave reviews by makeup artists. I’d used their cleansers and moisturizing creams in the past so I was excited to see if the micellar water lived up to the rest of their products. It didn’t disappoint. In recent months this brand has become available at a few US chains.
Sephora also came out with their own brand of Micellar Water. I went through theirs fairly quick. It’s on the lower end of the price points, compared to some of the others and performed great for me.
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water debuted in the US just a few months ago. It’s been well received. It’s a drugstore option that is one of the most cost effective and affordable of all of these cleansers. I’m working on my second bottle of it now. Garnier also has a second formula available that is designed to take off even the toughest of waterproof mascaras. I haven’t tried this one yet, although I’ve needed it on a rare occasion.
Verdict: I can honestly say that I love all of these Micellar Waters that I’ve spoken about above. I don’t feel like one out-performs the others. You can choose to be fancy and get an expensive one and you’ll be happy with it. However, you can get a drugstore formula and be just as happy, in my opinion.
Have you jumped on the Micellar Cleansing Water train yet? If so, which one is your favorite?
*I paid for all of these products with my own money
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I didn’t have great luck with Simple MW (stings my eyes, didn’t remove makeup all that well), but I’ve been doing very well with the pink Garnier. I’m excited to get to try Bioderma finally (hoping it’s on its way), but I can’t imagine it being better than Garnier that seems to be just about perfect for me.
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I guess we’re all different because the Bioderma is the only one that occasionally makes my eyes sting and turn red, no others. I agree that the Garnier is great. Best price point for sure! Stacie xo
Stacie recently posted…What is Micellar Cleansing Water?
I love Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O, it’s definitely my fav! I bought it when we went to Cambodia last year so I didn’t have to use the water to wash my face. I guess I got lucky as it doesn’t burn my eyes at all.
I still love the Bioderma as long as I don’t use too much to remove my eye makeup. I think I’m down to my last bottle now. Time to order more! Stacie xo
Stacie recently posted…What is Micellar Cleansing Water?
I’ve never tried one but I definitely need to get on this train!
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Oh yes, I think you’ll love it! Stacie xo
Stacie recently posted…What is Micellar Cleansing Water?
I’m so glad I jumped on the Micellar Cleansing Water wagon since I love using them. On mornings I don’t shower I use this to cleanse my face so I can start fresh with skincare. I’m almost finished with Simple and plan to pick up the Garnier next time I see it.
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I know, what did we do before this wonderful and convenient innovation!? Stacie xo
Stacie recently posted…What is Micellar Cleansing Water?
A perfect list! I need to try your number 4 and 5 options, but otherwise I’ve used (and really enjoyed) all of these.
It’s one of my favorite types of products to buy. Stacie xo
Stacie recently posted…What is Micellar Cleansing Water?
Simple and Garnier Micellar Waters are my favorites!
And those are the best priced ones, so you did good there! Stacie xo
I love using micellar water to take off my makeup before I cleanse. I use the Garnier one but really want to try Simple too x
I have yet to try micellar water. I’ve been tempted, but difficult to get past the cost of a touch of cleanser in water. The biggest draw for me is if it would effortlessly remove waterproof mascara compared to my carrier oil.
I just bought a jar of the Garnier with my CVS coupon. I can’t wait to see how it compares.
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Can’t wait to hear what you think of it! Stacie xo
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I really need to try one of these. I think it would be good for my skin.
I haven’t jumped on the bandwagon… yet. I wasn’t sure if micellar cleansing water was just a gimmicky fad, but it seems like it works and it’s here to stay! I think I’m going to have to try it out!
It’s becoming more popular as time goes on. I think companies are seeing that this type of cleansing has caught on. Thanks for stopping by! Stacie xo
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I’ve only tried the Garnier and use as you do, after the actual cleansing to remove final traces of makeup or dirt. I really like using it.