Is Micellar Water Good for Your Skin?
Written by
May Willis
Published
Wednesday, 13 Nov 2024
6 min. read
Why trust us?
1
CottonNow is incubated at the Harvard Innovation Lab.
2
Science & data-based approach to personal care. Numbers don’t lie.
3
With 10+ years struggling with acne & skin conditions, we understand what it’s like.
If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for the next best thing in skincare. One product that's been making waves lately is micellar water. But the big question is: "Is micellar water good for your skin?" Today, we're going to dive into the potential benefits and side effects of micellar water for skin health. Whether you're a skincare newbie or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you understand how to use micellar water and determine if it's right for your skin type. So, let's get into it!
Micellar water took the industry by storm around 2015. It was marketed as one of the miracle compounds that just cleanses your skin magically at a microscopic level.
What is Micellar Water?
Micellar water is a gentle cleanser that originated in France and has taken the beauty world by storm. It's made up of micelles, which are tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water. These micelles attract dirt, oil, and makeup, effectively lifting them off your skin without the need for harsh scrubbing.
Benefits of Micellar Water
Micellar water has gained a reputation for being a versatile and gentle cleanser. Here are a few benefits that make it a favorite among skincare lovers:
1.Gentle on the Skin
One of the biggest advantages of micellar water is its gentle formula. Unlike traditional cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils, micellar water maintains your skin's balance.
2.Effective Makeup Removal
Micellar water is highly effective at removing makeup, including waterproof mascara and long-lasting lipstick. The micelles work like magnets, attracting and lifting away makeup and impurities. Micellar water is as effective as traditional makeup removers but without the need for vigorous rubbing. (Biolin Scientific, 2023).
Potential Side Effects of Micellar Water
While micellar water has many benefits, it's important to be aware of potential side effects:
1.Residue Build-Up
Some micellar waters can leave a residue on the skin, which might not be suitable for everyone. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, this residue could potentially clog pores and lead to breakouts.
2.Not a Deep Cleanser
Micellar water is great for light cleansing or removing makeup, but it might not be enough for a deep cleanse, especially if you wear heavy makeup or have been exposed to a lot of pollution. For a thorough cleanse, it's best to use micellar water as the first step in a double cleansing routine.
3.Potential Irritants
While most micellar waters are formulated to be gentle, some brands may include fragrances or preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. It's always a good idea to check the ingredient list and opt for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula if you have sensitive skin.
How to Use Micellar Water
Using micellar water is simple and straightforward. Here's how you can incorporate it into your skincare routine:
1.Soak a Cotton Pad
Pour a generous amount of micellar water onto a cotton pad. Better use one of our disposable 100% cotton towels.
2.Gently Wipe Your Face
Gently swipe the cotton pad across your face, focusing on areas with makeup or impurities. There's no need to rub or scrub.
3.Repeat if Necessary
If you're wearing heavy makeup, you might need to use a second cotton pad to ensure all makeup is removed. I double-wipe every time thanks to PureNatura towel's size.
4.Follow Up with a Cleanser
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, or if you want a deeper cleanse, follow up with a gentle cleanser. This is called double cleansing.
5.Moisturize
Finish your routine with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Conclusion
So, is micellar water good for your skin? In my experience and based on the research, the answer is a resounding yes! It's a gentle, effective, and convenient option for removing makeup and cleansing your skin. However, it's important to choose the right formula for your skin type and be aware of potential side effects. Give it a try and see how your skin responds—you might just find your new favorite skincare product!
Although micellar water is generally a great product, make sure you double cleanse just to be safe, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. See you in the next blog!
Q&A
Yes, makeup wipes are bad for your skin because they often contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate and dry out your skin.
Makeup wipes are bad for skin because they can leave behind residue that clogs pores, cause micro-tears through physical abrasion, and strip away natural oils.
Better alternatives to makeup wipes include using PureNatura 100% disposable cotton towels paired with a gentle makeup remover for effective and gentle cleansing.
