12 Best Micellar Waters, According to Dermatologists 2024
While wipes, balms, and oil cleansers are the usual choices for removing stubborn foundation, eyeshadow, or mascara, weâd love to introduce you to another makeup-removing format: the best micellar waters. These lightweight, water-based makeup removers use the power of tiny micelles (or balls of oil molecules) suspended in water to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
âMicellar water is a gentle cleanser that originated in France and is used to remove makeup and impurities,â says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey. They have a slew of different benefits, from cleansing to toning to makeup removal and hydration. One primary advantage is how gentle the cleanser is on the skin. âIt effectively removes pollutants and makeup without the need for harsh rubbing or rinsing, which can be particularly beneficial for sensitive skin,â says Marisa Garshick, MD, an New York City board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.
Although micellar waters are suitable for sensitive complexions, dermatologists agree that all individuals with various skin types (including dry, acne-prone, and mature) can benefit from adding it to their skin care routine. Ahead, we uncover the very best ones for various skin types and problems. TL;DR: Bioderma was by far the favorite among dermatologists and Glamour editors.
The best micellar waters, at a glanceBest Overall: Bioderma Sensibo Micellar Water, $25Best Drugstore: Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water with Rose Water, $9Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra, $18Best for Dry Skin: ISDIN 4-in-1 Micellar Solution, $39Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Odacite Blue Aura Cleansing Water, $39Best for Mature Skin: Eucerin Hydrating 3-in-1 Micellar Water, $11Best for Eye Makeup Removal: Vichy Pureté Thermale One Step Micellar Water, $20Your micellar water questions, answeredWhat does micellar water do?Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?Can you use micellar water to wash your face?What skin types should use micellar water?Meet our expertsAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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Bioderma Sensibo Micellar Water
Dendy Engelman, MD, and board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City, is a massive fan of this gentle micellar water thatâs a staple in pharmacies in and around Paris. âNot only does this micellar water effectively cleanse the skin, it also contains glycerides, which aid in moisture retention,â she says. Itâs also fragrance and alcohol-free, making it suitable for various skin types. New York City makeup artist Jonet Williamson loves this micellar water as well and uses it herself and on many of her clients. âI love using Bioderma Sensibo with a cotton round versus traditional makeup-removing wipes because it effectively removes waterproof makeup without leaving behind an oily residue,â she says. She also shares a pro hack: âThis formula is perfect for fixing the shape of eyeliner on the fly. Because Bioderma Sensibo is an oil-free formula, you can go right in with makeup without worrying about it causing any separation,â she adds. Danielle Sinay, Glamourâs associate beauty editor, is also a fan. âYou may think all micellar waters are created equal, but my experience with Bioderma has proven theyâre not! Other types have stung my eyes and even irritated my skin (yes, Iâm very sensitive), but Bioderma is gentle enough I can use it anywhere and several times a day with no problem at all. Whatâs more, nothing removes makeup as quickly and efficiently as it does. I canât live without it.â
Key ingredients: Glycerides, cucumber extractFragrance: NoWhat to note: Gentle on all skin types, doesnât leave the skin feeling stripped, and balances pH2/17
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water with Rose Water
For a micellar water you can pick up at your local drugstore, opt for this solution endorsed by Hadley King, MD, a New York City board-certified dermatologist. âThis micellar water contains rose water and glycerin for extra hydrating properties,â she says, and can be used to remove makeup, as well as tone and refresh the skin. Beauty editor and skin care enthusiast Shalwah Evans also loves using the Garnier Micellar Water in tandem with soap to clean her makeup brushes. âWhen paired with brush soap, a little goes a long way for both. The micellar water is great at breaking up dried makeup and letting the soap penetrate better,â she shares.
Key ingredients: Rose water, glycerinFragrance: YesWhat to note: Garnier has a vast collection of micellar waters that address different skin types and concerns, including the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Peeling Water, which Dr. King loves. âThis one is unique because it contains not only micellar water but also 1% polyhydroxy acid and glycolic acid, as well as pineapple fruit extract and papain, to gently exfoliate the skin,â she says.
