Micellar Water Is The Facial Cleanser You Never Knew You Needed

The water-based cleanser was invented by Jean-Nol Thorel, the French founder of the skincare line Bioderma. Micellar water was created to cleanse and hydrate because the naturally hard tap water was too harsh on skin, leading to dry, dull complexions.

"Hard tap water is charged with a high quantity of dissolved minerals," says Julie Russak, MD, of Russak Dermatology Clinic in NYC. "These can affect the protective barrier of the skin and even deteriorate it, making skin vulnerable and susceptible to environmental damage and pollution."

Who can use cleansing water?

Today, micellar water is readily available and is considered a hero product because it's perfect for all skin types, (even those with sensitive complexions swear by it). It's also ideal for packing when youre on-the-go because you can use it to remove makeup and wash your face without having to rinse it off, which is a total game-changer.

So how does micellar water work?

Dont let the word water fool you-this magic elixir is way more powerful than what's coming out of your bathroom sink. Micellar water is an extraordinary alternative for cleansing the skin because it contains soft water along with micelles, which are tiny balls of oil naturally attracted to the debris on the skin, says Dr. Russak.

The micelles act like tiny magnets and attract impurities on the skins surface-think: dirt, oil, and makeup. This allows them to remove all the gunk without stripping your skin or throwing off its natural balance. Surfactant micelles have been shown to be less aggressive on natural skin lipids and essential for healthy skin, says Dr. Russak.

Wait-whats the difference between micellar water and toner?

"Toners can contain alcohol," says Yoon-Soo Cindy Bae , MD, a dermatologist in NYC. It's the alcohol in the toner that can strip your skin or leave you with some side effects, which is why micellar water is a great alternative that can also be used like a toner after you cleanse. "Its complex formula offers the same properties as a toner without the harsh, oil-stripping ingredients," says Dr. Russak.

Watch this for some major skincare inspo:

How to use micellar water.

It's best applied on a cotton ball. The micelles adhere to the cotton and remove the dirt and makeup on your face as you swipe it across your complexion. Since the formula is both gentle and hydrating, there's no need to rinse it off once you're done cleaning. Instead, allow your skin to soak in all the goodness as it continues to work its magic throughout the day.

Pro tip: Instead of relying on makeup wipes that can contain a variety of irritating chemicals, keep a bottle and some cotton pads in your gym bag and use it before and after your workout to clear out your pores and keep your skin hydrated.

Some micellar waters to try

Ready to reap the benefits of having soft, clean skin without any harmful residue? Try these powerful-yet-gentle micellar waters below and get ready to experience a deep clean like no other.

Bioderma Make-Up Removing Micelle Solution

This OG micellar water (the brand literally invented the stuff) has been a makeup artist secret for years. They use to pick up bottles and bottles when they visited France. Now, luckily, you can get your hands on it here.

Olay Sensitive Calming Water Facial Cleanser

Inspired by Hungarian water essence, this calming formula from Olay's brand-new sensitive skin line targets dry, stressed skin, offering a soap-free clean that'll remove daily buildup and fortify the skin's surface with much-needed hydration.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

Not only can you pick up this 13-ounce bottle at your local drugstore, but the formula is powerful enough to remove makeup yet gentle enough to hydrate your skin. "It really does take off eye makeup well without burning your eyes or smearing it everywhere," says one Amazon user.

Mustela No Rinse Cleansing Water

Gentle enough for newborn babies, this hypoallergenic, paraben, phthalate and phenoxyethanol-free formula works wonders for sensitive skin, yet it's powerful enough for the whole family to use. It's made up of 98 percent plant-based ingredients, including aloe vera leaf extract, which softens, soothes, and cleanses all in one.