Makeup removers come in numerous forms, but few are as popular as micellar water. If anything, it may be one of the most recommended products for beginners. However, there is a lot of gray area on whether micellar water is good for your skin or not. Learn more about this stellar product, its pros, cons and more. 

What Exactly Is Micellar Water?

Micellar water is marketed as a gentle facial cleanser that doesn’t require rinsing off. The base typically consists of purified water infused with oils, moisturizers and mild solvents. It’s meant to soak up makeup and dirt away to make it easier to wipe off. 

This cleansing product has been around for quite a while, coming in and out of trends. The global micellar water market grew from $112.3 million in 2017 to $184 million in 2023. It can grow even further in the future depending on the demand.   

Benefits of Micellar Water

Part of micellar water’s popularity can stem from its effectiveness as a skin care product. Check out these reasons why it’s a must-have for many people’s cleansing routine. 

1. Gentle Cleansing

Micellar water can be one of the more gentle skin care products in terms of formulation, as it mainly consists of water. However, it still has relatively good cleansing power to remove dirt and makeup without harsh rubbing. The watery consistency should also provide a boost of hydration to the skin. 

2. Removes Water-Resistant Products

While micellar water does contain water, it still has solvents that can help dissolve makeup. It can be powerful enough to take off water-resistant mascara, eyeliner and other cosmetic products. For the best results when removing makeup from the eyes, leave the cotton pad soaked for a good minute before trying to wipe everything off. A Q-tip can provide precision. 

3. Simple and Straightforward to Use

Certain skin care products can seem rather complex, as they require multiple notes on storage and application. Some, like self-foaming wash, may also have more challenging components that may not be beginner-friendly. Micellar water comes in pretty standard packaging and is easy to understand—dispense, apply, and wipe off the gunk. Saves plenty of time. 

4. Suits Different Skin Types

The combination of gentle application and a water-based formula generally makes micellar water compatible with different skin types. Those with oily skin will particularly benefit since the product can also help deal with excess sebum. However, people with dry, combination and normal skin will also enjoy its makeup removing effects. 

Disadvantages of Micellar Water

With the pros above, micellar water certainly sounds good for your skin. However, its formulation can have some cons. Consider the following disadvantages. 

1. Typically Uses Up Cotton Pads

One caveat with using micellar water is that it tends to use up cotton pads or balls. You can go through quite a pack of these when trying to remove a full face of makeup. Plus, these aren’t compostable, especially with makeup on them. If you’re trying to save up or practice sustainable skin care, it may be a step back for your routine. 

2. May Irritate Sensitive Skin

While micellar water can be gentle, people with more sensitive skin may experience some irritation. The friction of repeatedly rubbing a cotton pad against your face can be a little too much. There’s also the matter of more chemical-like solvents mixed into the skin care formula of your chosen product. 

3. Can Leave Some Residue

While micellar water is great at tackling water-resistant makeup, it can be more ineffective when dealing with waterproof makeup and oil-based makeup. There are still chances of it removing, but it can take a few extra swipes. And even then, there may be the lingering feeling of micellar water on your face.

So, Is Micellar Water Good for Your Skin?

In conclusion, micellar water is good for your skin. However, depending on their routine and type of cosmetics, some people may not find it particularly effective. It may be better to opt for more powerful cleansers like a cleansing balm or oil. 

Best Tips for Using Micellar Water 

There are several techniques that can help make micellar water work for your skin. Here are a few things you can keep in mind for your skin care routine:

• Read the ingredients: Check the ingredients of your chosen micellar water to ensure that you aren’t allergic to anything on the list. You also want to aim for a more gentle formulation to minimize irritation to your skin.

• Practice a patch test: Once you’ve sorted everything out on paper, it’s time to actually test it on the skin. Watch out for any redness after using it on areas like the cheek or chin. If there’s a reaction, it’s back to hunting at the skin care aisle. 

• Rinse well: Even if your skin already feels clean after using micellar water, make it a point to wash with water. This extra step will remove any excess dirt and oil while also removing all of that skin care product. 

• Double cleanse: Use a micellar water as the first step of your double cleanse. Have a face wash that you can rely on to get rid of the rest of what’s on your skin. You can also bring in a toner to really have a clean slate. 

• Experiment with the application: Consider using softer and organic cotton pads, or some reusable ones. There was also a trend where people would put the micellar water in a spray bottle and just rub it with their fingers.

• Listen to your skin: Some like to use micellar water day in and day out. Other people prefer just to use it when they’re running out of their regular cleansing balm. Check how frequently you tend to use it and whether it jives with your skin. 

Use Micellar Water Wisely

Micellar water is good for your skin if it matches your skin type and you practice gentle application. Otherwise, many other products can get the job done. Share with us what works for you and what your favorite makeup remover is!