Micellar water: skincare benefits and uses

What is micellar water?

Dr Aneesha Ahmad, GP, dermatologist and medical director of Skyn Doctor, Huddersfield, Leeds, explains that micellar water is made up of very small balls of cleansing oil molecules (micelles) suspended in soft purified water which removes impurities from your skin.

Where can you get micellar water?

Micellar water is widely available online, in pharmacies, high street stores, and supermarkets.

Is micellar water good for your skin?

Micellar water is effective at removing everyday sweat, dirt, and oil from the skin surface, which will help to clear your pores while also toning. This means it will revitalise your skin without stripping it of any natural moisture, irritating sensitive skin, or causing excessive dryness.

Ahmad adds that, as micellar water doesn't contain alcohol, it can reduce irritation and inflammation while offering hydration and keeping your skin soft.

Other benefits of micellar water

How to use micellar water in your skincare routine

"Micellar water can be used either in the morning or night, or even both," explains Ahmad. "It's recommended that micellar water be used first and then followed with your normal skincare routine. You don't need to rinse your face after using the micellar water."

It is recommended to pour micellar water on to a cotton pad or ball and then gently rub it over your face.

If you are using it as a make-up remover, sweep the cotton pad over your eyes, lips, and face, pausing briefly over areas with the heaviest make-up - such as waterproof mascara. You might be tempted to scrub aggressively, but you should take extra care to avoid pulling your skin.

"Micellar water can even remove waterproof products," adds Ahmad. "However, some make-up products are oil soluble, and only oil cleansers can lift the make-up without you having to over rub the skin."

If you are using micellar water as a wash or toner, it can also be applied in between skincare steps and throughout the day if you feel like your skin needs a boost. This can feel especially soothing on hot days when your face gets sweaty.

Since you do not need to rinse your face after using micellar water - you can just leave it to dry - this makes it perfect for travel, using after an intense gym session, or while working in a hot office. You can buy micellar water in mini sizes, which will fit in a bag or pocket.

Can you use micellar water on your hair?

So, if micellar water is so gentle and supposedly brilliant for your skin, does that mean you can also use it on your hair? Ahmad says "Yes."

"Micellar water is unlikely to strip your hair of moisture," she explains. "Using it can help with the overall balance of your hair, meaning it will look shiny and bouncy. There are various hair products on the market which are infused with micellar water. This might be worth trying if you have an oily scalp or you are looking to encourage more volume in your hair."

While shampooing your hair is necessary, the frequent scrubbing and foaming can leave your locks dry. Therefore, micellar water can bring the dirt and product in your hair to the surface for you to rinse off. Using micellar water on your hair over an extended period of time can reduce wear and tear and give it a break from the harshness of washing it and the scratching of your scalp with your nails.

Does micellar water cause breakouts?

So far, micellar water appears to be a universally effective product. If you are prone to blemishes and breakouts, micellar water can help, as it lifts dead skin cells that could be trapped and clogging pores, while also acting as a gentle facial cleanser to remove dirt.

Is micellar water good for acne?

Like most products, micellar water is not suitable for everyone. So, if you are acne prone and pursuing treatment for it, Ahmad says it might be a good idea to chat with your dermatologist to ensure the micellar water doesn't contradict any other products that have been prescribed.