You're probably familiar with the dread of removing your makeup after a long night of partying. And let's face it – the whole process of going through your skin care routine seems like a big task. But what if we told you there's a product that works as a makeup remover and a cleanser at the same time?
We're used to washing our faces with a creamy cleanser. It's the formula that most companies tend to go for. But, nowadays, when there are more and more unconventional skincare products on the market (such as Misumi's Complete Clear 3-Step System), there might be an easier way when you're feeling too lazy or can't be bothered. If this is you, you need micellar water in your life.
This article will explore all the benefits of micellar water and how to use it.
What is Micellar Water?
First and foremost, let's find out what micellar water actually is and what it's made out of.
Micellar cleansing water is a liquid cleanser made of particles called micelles, which are small molecules suspended in water. That explains where micellar water gets its name from.
These particles work as a sponge and are very effective in removing all the makeup, dirt, gunk, and other impurities sitting on your face. And the best part is that you don't have to cleanse your skin afterward – micellar water does the job for you!
Now that you understand the structure of micellar water, let's move on to the benefits it has to offer and all the ways you can incorporate it into your skincare regimen.
The History Behind Micellar Water
How did this product go on the market in the first place?
It all started back in the 90s when Parisian women needed a water-based product. The tap water in Paris was too harsh, which caused damage to both their skin and hair health. In the making of micellar water, only soft water is used - this just means the water is low in magnesium and calcium ions. This ensures that your skin gets maximum protection while using the product.
Benefits of Using Micellar Water
If you're still not convinced you need this miracle product in your life, here's a list of all the perks you can experience if you try it out for yourself.
Micellar Water Cleanses the Skin
Probably the most obvious of all its benefits is its ability to clean the skin and remove dirt and oil. Unlike other face wash types, micellar water doesn't contain any soap, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals that might irritate sensitive skin, cause an allergic reaction, or worse, cause a breakout. (If you're suffering from breakouts, try Misumi's Complete Clear 3-Step System.)
It cleanses the skin perfectly. If you don't have a lot of time to dedicate to your skin care routine, micellar water might be a perfect fit.
When you clean your skin with micellar water, you'll be left with glowing and healthy skin, without the harsh and tight feeling which is often the result of using other types of cleansers.
And the best part is you don't have to do a double cleanse, and there's no rinsing required. Just follow up your cleansing with a gentle moisturizer, and you'll be all set. If you have dry skin, ensure your moisturizer contains hydrating ingredients.
You Can Use Micellar Water for Many Different Purposes
Another great benefit of this cleanser is that it works as multiple products at once. Not only will it remove dirt and makeup, but it doubles up as a cleanser. And, what's more, it can work perfectly well as a toner if your skin is in need of one. This takes simplifying your skincare routine to a whole new level.
You can also use micellar water to wash your make up brushes. This is especially useful for when you're traveling and want to save some space in your suitcase.
It's a Great Makeup Remover
The micelles present in micellar cleansing water make it an incredible tool for removing dirt, and any impurities you may have on your skin. And it doesn't just stop there. Due to its gentle formula, micellar water also works as an eye makeup remover. Your skin will be left perfectly clean without a tight or overly dry feeling that's sometimes left by makeup wipes.
The only thing you need to worry about if you're using this product as a make up remover is forgetting to wipe off any areas on your face which are easy to miss, such as in between the brows and above the upper lips. When removing makeup, don't forget to clean the neck.
Micellar Cleansing Water is Suitable for All Types of Skin
Have you ever come across a product you desperately want to try out, only to find that the label says that it's not compatible with your skin type? With this product, you won't need to worry about that sort of thing happening.
Micellar water is the holy grail. It has a formula that's compatible with almost every skin type and certain skin conditions, including acne-prone skin. You won't need to worry about reading any labels since it almost always comes with clean and straightforward ingredients. So whether you have dry skin, normal skin, or even sensitive skin, you can use this skincare product.
Micellar Water is Great for Traveling
The last thing you need when packing for a trip is forgetting to pack all of your skincare products. Luckily, as we mentioned, this multipurpose cleanser can function as multiple products at once. This will give you more space when packing and save you time when you've just returned from a long day of exploring.
Micellar Water is pH-Friendly
If you're really into skincare, then the question of whether cleansing with micellar water can disturb the skin's pH balance must've popped into your mind. You don't need to worry – in general, this product doesn't contain oil-stripping ingredients. Micellar water works wonders on the skin, without disrupting the natural moisture barrier.
Micellar Water is Easy to Use
Have you ever gotten home so tired that the last thing you want to do is spend at least 10 minutes removing your make up? If this is you, then micellar water might be the perfect product. It's much better for your skin health than a makeup wipe, and it will get rid of oil and dirt, too.
Simply keep a bottle and a cotton ball or pad on your nightstand and gently sweep over your skin's surface at least two times for a thorough cleanse.
How to Use Micellar Water
This water can be used in so many ways, which makes it the perfect product for those of you who don't want to spend extra time planning an extensive skincare routine. It's also perfect for people who travel often and like to save up space.
Here are all the ways you can use micellar water.
Micellar Water as a Cleanser
If you don't have overly problematic skin, then you can get away with using micellar water as a facial cleanser in the morning. After all, it's more important to wash your face before you go to bed and remove impurities that have accumulated on your skin barrier during the day than it is to clean your face in the morning, right after you get up.
If you want to save some time in the morning, switch your regular cleanser with micellar for a few days and see how your skin responds.
Micellar water is easy to absorb, and it only takes seconds to cover your face with a cotton pad. Make sure you follow this step up with a moisturizer or a serum. You might also use a product that contains a type of acid in the morning, so it's important to remember that all of those products come right after micellar water.
If you have problematic or acne-prone skin, you might need a different product, such as a deep cleansing solution. Try Misumi's Complete Clear 3-Step System! This routine attracts dirt and oil, helping to unclog pores. They soothe skin irritation and inflammation, leaving you with glowing skin.
Micellar Water as a Toner
Speaking of products that you use in the morning, toner is likely to be on that list. There are many different reasons why you'd use toner, and it's especially popular among people who have oily skin.
You can use this super gentle product right after you cleanse your face at night to ensure all your makeup is removed from the skin.
Micellar Water as a Makeup Remover
This is probably the most famous use of micellar. If you want clear and healthy skin, always remove makeup before you go to bed. Now you don't have any excuse to miss this step, since micellar water is so easy and fast to use. Let's face it – nobody likes to wake up with panda eyes.
All you need is a cotton pad (or two) and a few seconds to spare. It's one of the best and easiest ways to remove makeup (as well as dirt and excess oil.)
The best part is it won't irritate your skin in the process or cause any redness or breakouts. Not to mention, the way micellar water is formulated allows for thorough cleansing of even heavy and waterproof makeup. What's not to love?
The Perfect Tool to Freshen Up After the Gym
If you wear makeup while working out, and you want to remove it as soon as you're done sweating, gently wipe it off with micellar. Then you'll be good to go, whether you want to apply a new layer of makeup or walk out of the gym makeup-free.
But what if you don't wear makeup while working out? The same thing applies. When you're done sweating, there's dirt, bacteria, and other nasty things that sit atop the skin and can cause congestion.
It's a good idea to wash your face after you work out, but if you don't have the time to do that, or you want to avoid the fuss of carrying around a bunch of skin care items in your gym bag, cleanse your face with micellar post-workout. Simply pour the water on a cotton pad. You'll be good to go!
Clean Your Makeup Brushes Using Micellar
And last, but certainly not least, micellar is the perfect substitute for baby shampoo when cleaning your make up brushes. Micellar water is easier to use than baby shampoo - not to mention more time-efficient. It removes makeup, bacteria, dirt, and oil from the brushes without causing any damage to them.
And, what's more, it's an all-around product that you can use for multiple purposes. It doesn't get any better than that.
Micellar Water as Hand Sanitizer
Yes, you read that correctly. Some people claim that micellar water works as a hand sanitizer, but without the negative side effects such as dry and irritated skin.
There isn't enough evidence that micellar cleansing water is strong enough to actually kill the bacteria on your hands, but it doesn't hurt to try. All you need to do is put a drop or two of micellar water on your palms and rub them together.
Is Micellar Water Suitable for Everyone?
In terms of skin types, micellar water is safe to use for all, regardless of whether you have dry skin or oily skin. It won't cause irritation like another, harsher face wash might.
However, if you like to wear heavy or waterproof makeup (such as lip stains or strong waterproof mascara), then micellar cleansing water might not be for you. Although it functions perfectly well as a makeup remover, it doesn't work that well with heavier makeup.
If you need to take lots of face makeup off, opt for something on the oilier side. Alternatively, you could also try jojoba oil or coconut oil.
Things to Keep in Mind When Purchasing Micellar Water
The good news is that it's a pretty straightforward product to use, and it doesn't contain that many ingredients. On the other hand, there are some companies that put alcohol and humectants inside, which is definitely something to be wary of if you have sensitive skin.
The Side-effects of Using Micellar Water
Due to the fact that micellar water contains a pretty simple and mild formula, it agrees with all skin types. It's uncommon for people to have adverse reactions when using this purified water, such as itchiness, irritation, redness, or breakouts. Since it isn't oil-based, it also won't clog pores.
That being said, not all micellar water is created equal, and there are many different micellar waters available. Pay attention to the brands of micellar water you use, and, along with that, which ingredients go into the product. It's the only way to ensure you're getting the best bang for your buck.
Final Thoughts
Micellar water is one of the most versatile skin care items available on the market. It can be used for so many purposes – toning the skin, cleansing the skin, refreshing after a long day or a sweaty gym session, washing your makeup brushes, or even sanitizing your skin!
If this sounds appealing to you, go ahead and try it out yourself. You need to pay special attention to which brand you're picking up, along with the ingredients list, but beyond that, you don't need to worry about any possible side effects.
Happy cleansing!
