TBH, the French know a whole lot about beauty. From the perfect red lipstick to the cleanest, most effective skincare money can buy, there’s something so desirable about a French gal's beauty routine. But there’s one skincare product hailing from France that we can’t get enough of—micellar water. It’s the no-rinse cleanser that simultaneously removes makeup, tones, purifies, and softens the skin. And the best part? You can use it to cleanse your skin no matter where you are because no water is needed. That's why we’ve used our data-driven algorithm that factors in best-selling buzz, editorial selections, and real user reviews to create a vetted list of the best micellar cleansers on shelves. Trust us—these options are so impressive, we won’t blame you if you buy more than one (or all of them). Ahead, find the Top 10 micellar cleansing waters to date. Opening image: sephora.com
Love our 10 Best Micellar Cleansing Waters? Check out our 10 Best Body Exfoliators next!
July 24, 2020
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The Rankings
IT Cosmetics Miracle Water Micellar Cleanser
FROM THE EXPERTS: In a clinical study, 100% of users showed improved hydration and 91% saw brighter, clearer skin when using Miracle Water.
ABOUT THE BRAND: IT Cosmetics teams up with plastic surgeons and dermatologists to create each of their clinically-tested formulas.
Drunk Elephant E-Rase Milki Micellar Water
BEST FOR: Dry skin
WHAT IT DOES: This milky micellar water is formulated with a ceramide blend that helps maintain moisture balance and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s also infused with wild melon seed oil, which is rich in fatty acids, to help protect and hydrate dry skin.
Eau Thermale Avene Micellar Lotion Cleansing Water
BEST FOR: Removing makeup and cleansing sensitive skin
USERS SAID: “I have very sensitive skin, so it's hard to come by products that I really really like. And I really, really like this. I use it mostly on nights when I'm too lazy to wash off the makeup and dirt in the bathroom. [...] Whenever I use this product, my skin feels very soft and deeply moisturized. It never breaks me out, and in the morning, I notice that my skin feels much better than usual.”
L'Oreal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water
BEST FOR: Those who are new to micellar water or those looking to try the skincare trend without breaking the bank
HELPFUL TIP: When using this micellar water to remove waterproof makeup, try soaking a cotton pad in the solution and holding it on the area (lashes, lips, eyelids) for a few seconds before rubbing. This will help remove stubborn makeup without irritation or redness.
Youth To The People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser
LOVED FOR: This antioxidant cleanser is like a green juice for your skin. It’s formulated with super greens like kale, spinach, and green tea to make skin glow like never before. It’s even safe for sensitive skin and existing skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
USERS SAID: “This is my favorite cleanser. I don’t even want to try other cleansers because immediately after trying this one, my rosacea went down, and my skin was visibly smooth and felt like silk while also feeling hydrated and plump. It smells so good to me and makes my skin feel clean without stripping it. I love this.”
Simple Kind To Skin Cleansing Water
LOVED FOR: This micellar cleanser uses triple purified water and no harsh ingredients, making it safe for even the most sensitive skin.
FUN FACT: All Simple products are free of dyes, perfumes, and harsh chemicals that cause irritation.
La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water
USERS SAID: “I have ordered this a few times. I heard about micellar water years ago and did a lot of research to pick the best brand for a good price, and ended up with La Roche-Posay. I love this item. I wear light makeup, but even after removing it with my Neutrogena makeup remover wipes each night, I'll put this micellar water on a cotton pad and it will still pick up makeup, dirt, and oil that the wipes didn't get.”
ABOUT THE BRAND: Did you know La Roche-Posay is recommended by 90,000 dermatologists worldwide?
Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water
WHY YOU NEED IT: To give micellar water a little skin-loving boost, Caudalie adds chamomile and organic grape water. The combination of these two ingredients helps soothe irritation and adds an extra dose of moisture.
HELPFUL TIP: Instead of pouring it into your palms and cleansing with your hands, apply the micellar water to a cotton pad or cloth before using it on the face.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
WHAT IT DOES: This fan-favorite micellar water is best-selling for a reason. The micelles in this formula are one of a kind and very close to the natural composition of the skin. These micelles also help to soothe and calm irritation.
AS SEEN ON: Gwenyth Paltrow
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
BEST FOR: People with acne, dryness, sensitive skin, and allergies
USERS SAID: “I have found my fountain of youth. I have had hormonal acne since age 43. It’s HORRIBLE. I have tried product after product. I've tried medications. Nothing has worked [other than] this micellar cleansing water! I love it! All I have been doing is washing my face with a cotton pad and this water every single night, and I cannot believe how clear my face is. It’s amazing. If acne is an issue, I highly recommend you buy some.”
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