How to Use Micellar Water, According to Dermatologists

We’re endlessly fascinated by French It girls thanks to their natural, effortless, approach to beauty. Their secret—other than good genes, of course—is none other than micellar water. This humble drugstore product is at the core of nearly every French woman's beauty routine thanks to its simplicity, versatility, and effectiveness. But how do you use micellar water and what are its purported benefits? We spoke with dermatologists Debra Luftman and Rachel Nazarian to find out everything there is to know about this magical water and why it's a beauty game-changer.

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What Is Micellar Water?

Micellar water is a skincare product that contains an ingredient called micelles, which attract dirt and debris, making micellar water a common choice for makeup remover or toner. According to Luftman, micellar water is so popular in France because of the notoriously hard water in Paris, which may be extremely harsh on the skin. “Micellar waters are super-gentle, so they won’t strip or irritate the skin while cleansing,” she says.

How It Works

“Micellar water contains small particles called micelles,” Luftman explains. “They work like a miniature sponge, mopping up dirt and makeup while hydrating your skin. Micelles have an oil-loving ‘tail’ that traps dirt, oil, and makeup and a water-loving ‘head’ that allows the micelles to dissolve impurities so they can easily be wiped away.” So that all sounds way, way better than the regular water we use to wash our face—and it is.

Who It's For

“All skin types can benefit from micellar water, but I especially recommend it for those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin," says Luftman.

“Oil droplets in soft water are actually quite hydrating to dry skin and don’t disrupt the natural pH of skin like foaming cleansers,” says Nazarian. “It’s also great for people who travel a lot and don’t always have access to water. Micellar water will clean most makeup, oil, and dirt with just a swipe of a cotton ball.”

The Benefits of Micellar Water

• Gentler than traditional cleansers
• Easily removes makeup
• More hydrating than makeup wipes
• Most formulas are alcohol-free
• Micelles draw out pore-clogging oils

How to Use Micellar Water

Makeup Remover

If you're wearing heavier makeup or sunscreen, we recommend using micellar water as a makeup remover, then following up with your favorite gentle cleanser. To use as a makeup remover, soak a cotton pad in your favorite micellar formulas and gently sweep where you have makeup.

Cleanser

To use micellar water, you simply pour it into a cotton pad and rub it over your face, like a toner. Then, just carry on with your skincare routine as normal—no need to rinse afterward. “Micellar water can replace any daily cleansing routine,” Luftman says. “I recommend using it in the morning, followed by an SPF moisturizer, and again in the evening followed by a night cream.”

Toner

To use micellar water as a toner, first start by using a gentle cleanser on the face. Then, pour some micellar water into your hands and pat the formula on the skin.

Should Micellar Water Be Rinsed Off?

While it is not essential to rinse off micellar water, if you are someone that struggles with sensitive skin, then it won't hurt to do an extra rinse to ensure that you're skin is completely clean and prepared for any additional product. It's important to note that micellar water does not replace a cleanser because it does not contain the same active ingredients that many cleansers contain to target acne or other skin concerns.