What is Micellar Water and Why Should You Try It?
You probably know micellar water as a makeup remover, but we’re about to make that refreshing bottle of goodness go even further for you.
In this article, we go in-depth on all things micellar – what is micellar water, how it works, how to use it and, most importantly, how micellar water can benefit your skin type.
What is Micellar Water?
Micellar water looks and feels like water but most have additional properties including purified water, moisturisers like glycerin and compounds used for cleansing. The molecules from these ingredients join to form what is known as micelles. These molecular structures help pull dirt and excess oil from your skin. The result is one go-to product that does three essential skincare tasks in one – removes makeup, cleanses your skin and leaves it feeling hydrated, moisturised and soothed.
Let’s look in a little more detail how this benefits your skin and why giving micellar water a try is worth your while. You skin will thank you for it.
Micellar Water Benefits
Removes Makeup and Cleanses Your Skin
While you may be using micellar water to remove your makeup as part of your nightly routine, it can double up as a soothing cleanser as it has properties that draw out impurities from deep within your skin. If you are looking for a micellar water which guarantees a thorough cleanse, Bifesta Micellar Cleansing Water is formulated to remove impurities such as PM 2.5 particles, dust and pollen, as well as excess sebum, which can cause clogged and enlarged pores. The micelles in micellar water also help to increase your skin’s permeability, which allows subsequent skincare products to reach the deeper layers of your skin.
Promotes Skin Hydration
What is micellar water if not a tonic for your complexion? Most micellar water formulas contain hydrating compounds that help to hydrate and soothe the skin. Protecting your skin in this way means that it can work harder to increase skin cell production since it is no longer fighting for hydration. This leads to a smoother, plumper more youthful-looking complexion.
Gentle on Skin
If you have sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea, micellar water is the ideal cleanser. Most micellar water come in a gentle formulation free from ingredients that typically irritate the skin, such as soap, fragrance and alcohol. And because it is able to draw out impurities without you having to rub and drag on your skin, it’s also incredibly gentle on your skin.
TIP: Remember to always pay attention to the ingredient list when picking up a new micellar water!
No Rinse Formula
Use micellar water on the go. Simply use it to cleanse and leave it on to keep your skin moisturised. The ingredients are gentle enough to remain on your skin without rinsing, meaning you can use it anywhere to keep your skin refreshed and cleansed all day long, wherever you are.
How to Use Micellar Water
As a Makeup Remover
- Soak a cotton pad with 3-5 pumps of micellar water
- Leave the cotton pad to rest for a few seconds on areas with heavier makeup and then gently wipe away.
- Cleanse the rest of your face in gentle upwards motions until the cotton pad is clean, and follow with your normal skincare routine.
- TIP: To remove tough waterproof makeup, try using a separate eye & lip makeup remover or an oil infused micellar water.
As a General Cleanser
You don’t have to wear makeup to benefit from micellar water. It’s equally as beneficial for your skin as a refreshing cleanser morning and night.
In the morning: Use micellar water as a replacement for your facial wash to remove impurities and dirt while moisturising your skin. This also helps to protect dry or sensitive skin, which can be stripped of moisture with other cleansing products and over washing.
At the end of the day: Use micellar water to remove sebum and dirt build-up which tends to accumulate on the skin throughout the day, even if you stay indoors. It can even remove sunblock, which normal facial cleansers can’t.
After wearing a face mask: Avoid the dreaded “maskne” that your skin may be prone to following an entire day of wearing a protective face mask. Simply apply micellar water to cleanse and protect your skin after removing your
Pre and Post Workout: Workouts can get sweaty! Pop your micellar water bottle in your gym bag for a quick cleanse before and after your workout to remove impurities which can cause clogged pores. With no rinsing required, you can simply cleanse and go.
To Double Cleanse or not to Double Cleanse?
As micellar water contains a no-rinse formula, there’s no need to double cleanse. Not double cleansing also allows for the moisturising ingredients in the micellar water to remain on your skin to boost hydration. However, if you still prefer to, opt for a gentle facial wash or foaming wash.
What Type of Skin is Micellar Water For?
Ready to experience the wonder which is micellar water but worried about whether it will suit your skin type? Here we will break down the benefits micellar water can bring to each skin type.
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, cleansing can be quite tricky. Using normal cleansers and soaps can be aggravating, but not having a thorough cleanse and leaving impurities on your skin is the last thing you want to do. A much gentler cleansing option is micellar water, which helps to remove impurities while protecting your skin barrier. For greater soothing properties, choose a micellar water with moisturising and skin protecting ingredients such as aloe extract.
Dry to Combination Skin
Similar to sensitive skin, dry skin can get aggravated by normal cleansers and soaps. With its no rinse formula and hydrating ingredients, micellar water works great for dry skin as it can help to retain moisture even after cleansing.
Oily to Combination Skin
A common mistake that people with oily skin tend to make is over washing their faces to remove the additional sebum. Ironically, this can be counterproductive and lead to more oil production as your skin tries to make up for the loss in moisture. A better alternative when it comes to cleansing your face will be to choose a micellar water with a formula tailored towards oily skin. The refreshing yet hydrating formula can help to keep your skin feeling fresh and balanced without drying it out.
Dull Skin with Clogged Pores
The micelles in micellar water help to lift and remove dirt and impurities from your pores. Furthermore, the gentle swiping motions used when you cleanse with a well soaked cotton pad also helps give your skin a gentle exfoliation each time you cleanse. Over time, this leads to clearer and brighter skin. For a stronger brightening effect, look for a micellar water with brightening ingredients such as Vitamin C and Lactic Acid.
Acne Prone Skin
Micellar water helps to cleanse away impurities and bacteria that might cause further breakouts. On top of that, it is a gentler way to cleanse which is important for acne prone skin which might already be irritated. Opt for a formula with anti-bacterial and hydrating ingredients to keep future breakouts at bay.
What Is Micellar Water If Not Adaptable?
The benefits are many and the really good thing about choosing micellar water is that it replaces your existing cleanser, makeup remover and moisturiser because micellar water does it all. And with its no-rinse formula, you can apply it anytime, anywhere for skin that is always clean, hydrated, moisturised and soothed.
