While I love having a skincare routine, sometimes the last thing I want to do at the end of a long day is a lengthy cleansing ritual. Yet leaving my makeup — and everything else my skin has accumulated during the day — on my face overnight is bound to make me break out. Luckily I discovered a one-step cleansing solution that removes my makeup and refreshes my skin all at once: micellar water.
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water easily washes away my makeup and other impurities in a flash, so whether I’m preparing for bed or getting my day started, my skin feels clean and refreshed. If you’re looking for a simpler way to keep your complexion clear and hydrated, here’s what you need to know about this skincare multitasker.
In the realm of skincare products, micellar water is probably most similar to toner in that it helps remove excess makeup, dead skin and oil, and hydrates skin. However, micellar water also acts as a cleanser thanks to the cleansing compounds that give micellar water its name: They form “micelles,” spherical molecules that clear dirt, effects from pollution and debris from your pores. Micelles make such effective cleansers that they can even erase makeup mistakes and wipe away hair color stains or excess self-tanner.
Garnier’s micellar water is formulated without parabens, sulfates, silicones or fragrance, so it’s gentle yet effective. The formula is tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists to ensure it’s safe for both skin and eyes. It’s also oil-free, making it suitable for oily and combination skin types.
I use Garnier micellar water at the end of the day to wash away my makeup — even mascara — and prep my skin for a traditional facial cleanser. I use a cotton pad moistened with micellar water to gently wipe away eye makeup, then wipe a second moistened pad all over my face to remove the rest of my makeup.
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water works as a one-step cleanser, but I often follow it with a mild toner and a cleanser to make sure my face is completely clean. Micelles can help make skin more permeable, so it actually helps my other skincare products work more effectively. Also, some micellar water users find that the product feels like it leaves an oily residue, so depending on your skin type, you may want to use a cleanser afterward.
I’ve sometimes found that I still need to use a specialized eye makeup remover if I’m wearing waterproof mascara. When you use Garnier micellar water to remove eye makeup, it’s important to hold the soaked cotton pad against your eyelid for a few seconds to give the formula time to start breaking down your eye makeup. This will make it easier to remove and prevent you from having to scrub at the delicate skin of your eye area.
The Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is a multipurpose cleanser that is powerful yet gentle on sensitive skin. You can purchase it at Ulta for only $4.99.
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water & Waterproof Makeup Remover
If you regularly wear waterproof makeup or liquid lipstick, this micellar water can easily wash it away. Garnier also offers other micellar water options formulated for different skincare concerns, such as mattifying, brightening or hydrating.
Sold by Ulta
La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water
This midrange option is great at removing waterproof makeup and it’s gentle on sensitive skin. The brand’s Thermal Spring Water contributes minerals and antioxidants.
Sold by Ulta
Lancôme Eau Micellaire Douceur
Formulated with French rose water, this luxurious micellar water leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed. Unlike some micellar water formulas, this one leaves no feeling of residue or tightness.
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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
