Micellar water description. Bioderma micellar water, clean line, loreal, nivea, garnier. Micellar water from Bioderma

A new cosmetic product in the beauty industry – micellar water – is becoming increasingly popular among women all over the world. What kind of product is this, what is its composition and how to use it correctly in daily facial care - these are the key questions that interest women of all ages.

Micellar water (as this type of cleanser is lovingly called) or micellar water is a liquid that has a special composition and is intended for the delicate and at the same time effective removal of cosmetics and impurities from the skin of the face. The product does not contain alcohols, synthetic solvents, petrochemical derivatives and soap agents traditionally used in makeup removers.

Good micellar water contains no parabens, no alkalis, no silicones, no dyes, no fragrances. But cosmetics manufacturers, striving to produce high-quality products that maximally improve the condition of the skin, add extracts of flowers and medicinal plants to the product, which have a beneficial effect on the epidermis.

This versatile product is suitable for all skin types and ages and helps dissolve makeup from all areas, including the delicate eye area, without irritating the tear glands. According to the manufacturers' instructions, the product does not require rinsing after use, maintaining the balance of the hydrolipidic layer of the epidermis.

Composition and properties of micellar water

The main active ingredient of the makeup remover is micelles. According to information in chemical reference books, they are fine particles in colloidal systems ranging in size from 1 to 100 nm and contain microscopic nuclei insoluble in an aqueous environment, which are surrounded by a stabilizing shell of solvent molecules and adsorbed ions.

Micelles, which make up micellar water, are part of any solution. These complex fatty acids at a certain concentration in water are surfactants, the main effect of which is:

connection with the smallest particles of fat;
dissolving cosmetics (lipstick, mascara, foundation, powder, blush, pencil, etc.);
reducing the irritating effects of cleanser ingredients on the skin;
“binding” and removing dangerous chemical compounds and carcinogens.

According to experts in the field of creating cosmetics, micellar water is needed for gentle cleansing of the skin. Active micelles, like natural magnet, dissolve and bind particles of cosmetics and fat deposits on the skin, after which they are removed with the ease of a magic wand with a regular cotton swab or disk.

With proper use of the product, the lipid structures of the epidermis remain intact, and if the micellar contains additional natural components (plant extracts), the upper layer of the skin is saturated with nutritional compounds.

It should be noted that micellar is not intended for deep cleansing, including peeling, and removing waterproof cosmetics, such as mascara, as there are specially developed products for them.

What is the difference between micellar water and toner?

Using micellar water not only carries out a daily makeup removal procedure, but also to some extent tones the skin. However, this product cannot fully replace a tonic, since it normalizes the pH balance, and not only helps stimulate the tone of the dermis.

That is, the main difference between micellar and tonic is that the first product is a cleanser, and the second is a toner, and both products are used in comprehensive care behind the face. The only substitute for tonic is thermal water.

How to use micellar water correctly?

Before use, shake the bottle with liquid several times until bubbles appear on the surface. Next, a cotton pad is soaked in the composition (not too much), which is used to wipe the face along the massage lines.

To dissolve cosmetics on eyelashes and eyelids, apply a tampon to eyes closed, several times carried out from top to bottom and from the nose to the temples. If desired, the face is washed or treated with a tampon soaked in ordinary or mineral water.

Do I need to wash my face after using the product?

According to the manufacturers, as indicated on the packaging, this is not necessary. In most cases, after removing makeup using micellar, there is no need to additionally wash your face with water, especially if you are in unusual or field conditions, for example, on a train or on a picnic.

However, if after using the product there is incomplete cleansing or other discomfort associated with the individual reaction of the skin, then it is better to wash your face. Some ladies prefer to carry out additional cleansing with other products with the obligatory subsequent application of a cream appropriate to the skin type and time of day.

Contraindications and precautions

As practice shows, dry and normal skin responds best to the use of micellar. On an oily face, especially prone to breakouts, an invisible film may form that does not contribute to the feeling of freshness and cleanliness. Therefore, the product is used as the first stage of complete cleansing, after which foam or gel should be used.

If there are inadequate skin reactions, which are most often observed in those with oily skin type, you can replace micellar water with any cleanser that does not cause allergies and is good at removing dirt and makeup residues.

Always carefully read the ingredients of a cosmetic product. Budget versions of micellar water may contain various components that are not inherent in this product. Pay close attention to added extracts, especially if you have allergic reactions to herbal remedies. Give preference to proven product brands that you trust or consult with professionals.

Do you already use this product in your daily skin care? Share your feelings about using micellar water and tell us which cosmetic company product is most suitable for you, so that our readers have complete information on this issue. I wish you radiant beauty at any age!

Micellar water does not replace regular facial care, but can be a great addition to it. This is a universal cleanser, toner, and moisturizer for any skin type.

What are micelles

The chemical composition of micellar water provides its cleansing properties. It contains microscopic micelles - round molecular structures. When applied to the epidermis, micelles, due to their physical properties and surface tension act like a magnet and cleanse the skin of dust and other contaminants.

These are balls consisting of surfactant molecules (surfactants) that assemble into a special spatial structure. Surfactants are substances that reduce surface tension upon contact with solid particles and promote the rapid dissolution of contaminants. They are contained in small quantities in micellar water, so they do not form foam.

Surfactant molecules consist of two parts: hydrophilic (tending to come into contact with water) and hydrophobic, repelling its molecules. When they enter a liquid, the hydrophobic ends of such molecules come closer together, “protecting” themselves from the aqueous phase by a hydrophilic layer. As a result, a spherical structure is formed - a micelle.

Micelles in an aqueous solution refract light, so micellar water is usually opaque or has a faint bluish color.

Manufacturers select the composition and amount of surfactants in such a way that they provide sufficient cleaning power without turning into a gel.

Micellar water components

It is better to choose brands containing thermal or floral water.

Micellar water may contain:

poloxamers (pluronics, proxanols, emuxols) – surfactants High Quality, which do not cause irritation and perfectly cleanse the skin, have digital designations, for example, 124, 188 or 184;
tensides (detergents) - mainly synthetic substances that can potentially damage the skin by destroying its surface lipid layer, are active surfactants, have good cleansing ability, and are also emulsifiers;
glycols (hexylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol) - substances containing 2 alcohol groups, but do not have the antiseptic properties of ordinary alcohol; used to retain moisture on the surface of the skin;
benzyl salicylate – part of UV filters, protects against exposure to sunlight;
panthenol – a drug that promotes the healing of microdamages, relieving inflammation and irritation of the skin;
glycosides – substances of plant origin that activate metabolism in cells;
plant extracts enriched with vitamins, various oils and other natural additives.

Beneficial features

Make-up removal

Microparticles-micelles have the property of attracting pollution. The liquid can be used regardless of skin type. Micellar water helps remove even waterproof makeup without rubbing or damaging.

Cleansing your face while traveling

Just like using hand sanitizer when traveling when there is no running water, using micellar to cleanse your face anytime, anywhere is also beneficial. After treatment, it dries very quickly, and dirt does not settle on the treated surface.

Daily care

You can cleanse your face morning and evening as a regular care routine instead of using toner or washing with soap. Use before bed helps rejuvenate the skin and cleanse it of all the impurities accumulated during the day. It also helps maintain the physiological balance of acids, lipids and other substances on the surface of the epidermis.

Matting

For oily skin, mcellar water eliminates excess sebum and shrinks pores, controlling sebum secretion.

Mode of application

How to use micellar water to preserve all its beneficial properties?

first you need to shake the bottle well, since many micellar waters have a two-phase formula;
then moisten a cotton pad with the solution and apply it to the surface to be cleaned for a few seconds, then gently wipe the skin.

Types of micellar water

When choosing, you need to pay attention to the main components.

The safest and most effective micellar water is based on Poloxamer. It very rarely causes skin irritation and is considered soft and non-aggressive. It does not need to be washed off after use. The following drugs are available on the market from Garnier, L’Oreal, and Vichy.
If the composition contains polyethylene glycol and tensides, such micellar water will cleanse the skin well and remove makeup almost instantly. However, glycol concentrations greater than 20% can potentially cause irritation. Therefore, it is better to wash off such products with clean water without soap, and then apply a caring cream to the skin.
There are also eco-cosmetics that practically do not contain surfactants, including glycosides and plant oils; it is not as effective as other representatives of this type of cosmetics and more often causes allergic reactions.

Possible side effects

Like any other industrially produced cosmetic product, micellar water can cause a negative skin reaction: dryness, a feeling of tightness, irritation, increased acne. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to study the composition and give preference to poloxamer-containing without propylene glycol, or wash it off after use.

Even with single use, some women experience symptoms such as swelling, redness and itching of the skin. In this case, you need to take an antihistamine and consult a dermatologist.

To avoid such a reaction, if you are prone to allergies, before using any new cosmetics, it is useful to conduct a sensitivity test: apply 2-3 drops of the drug to the area in the upper part of the forearm above the elbow, and evaluate the result after 48 hours. If redness or other negative symptoms appear, it is better not to use this micellar water.

Most popular drugs

Micellar water has become such a popular skin care product that it can be found in the lineup of almost every major cosmetics manufacturer.

With a “3-in-1” effect, it includes, in addition to micelles, almond oil particles and panthenol. Does not contain preservatives or perfume, so it is suitable even for the most sensitive and irritation-prone skin. Thanks to the oils in the composition, it nourishes the eyelashes. Characterized by good moisturizing, cleansing and softening effects.

Used to moisturize, cleanse, and remove makeup, including from the eyes. Suitable for any type of dermis, in particular those prone to inflammation, irritation, acne or excessive dryness.

The brand also produces two-phase micellar water, the peculiarity of which is the ability to quickly remove waterproof makeup without the formation of a greasy film and a sticky feeling.

L'Oreal

A line of products is produced for different skin types. Therefore, you need to take this into account when purchasing. Although micellar water is suitable for any dermis, if you use a product that matches the desired skin type, its effectiveness will be greater.

This manufacturer offers a traditionally high-quality product, designed to meet the needs of different dermal types, and has an anti-allergenic effect.

Premium products

Used for any skin type, including dry, sensitive, and allergy-prone. Tones, improving complexion and smoothing out unevenness.

La Roche-Posay

Designed specifically for oily skin. In addition to its general properties, it fights acne, removes excess sebum and prevents its secretion, thus eliminating oily sheen. The mattifying effect lasts throughout the day, and regular treatment allows you to gradually normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands on the face.

H2O-C-PURE has a significant tonic and whitening effect, well suited for women of average and middle age, fights pigmentation and dull complexion.

French preparation with black tea extract. Used for sensitive, irritated skin, has an anti-allergenic effect.

Based on thermal water. Nourishes the dermis with minerals and other beneficial substances contained in volcanic springs.

An excellent drug for girls who are concerned about oily skin on the face, it narrows, reduces the production of sebum and the tendency to form acne, removes oily sheen, and mattifies for a long time. Suitable not only for oily, but also for normal skin.

compliment

Provides a mattifying effect for up to 12 hours. Contains beneficial plant extracts.

Spring (MedicaMed)

Contains colloidal silver ions, which have antiseptic properties, as well as hyaluronic acid.

Belcosmex

“Ideal Fresh” guarantees perfect cleanliness. Designed primarily for removing makeup, gently cleansing the sensitive area around the eyes.

Ecotex

The manufacturer produces Eco-micellar water in the form of a spray. It contains plant extracts of sage flowers and leaves, chamomile, glycerin, citric acid, hydrogenated castor oil.

There are three types of product available under this brand:

two-phase for removing waterproof makeup, cleansing, nourishing and toning;
hypoallergenic;
matting – with a hypoallergenic effect.

Black Pearl

Has an anti-aging effect, contains up to 20% active caring serum. It destroys not only external pollution, but also helps remove toxic substances from the epidermis.

Aqua balance

This brand produces several types of micellar water: toning, moisturizing, rejuvenating. They include.

Natura Siberica

This micellar water from an already quite popular manufacturer in Russia is created on the basis of thermal springs of the Far East in combination with 5 oil extracts (sea buckthorn, lingonberry, cranberry, blueberry and stone fruit). It instantly removes waterproof makeup without intense impact, tones, and moisturizes. In addition, it has a mattifying effect, normalizing sebum metabolism.

Vitex

Belarusian-made cosmetics containing natural thermal water. Designed for dry skin prone to aging and age-related changes. Excellent for applying over makeup, it does not wash off, but sets it. Therefore, it can be used throughout the day by spraying it on the face. This is especially useful during long stays in rooms with insufficient air humidity.

Advantages

Regardless of which product a woman chooses, she can count on the following advantages of micellar preparations over regular washing and using other care products:

micelles help remove fatty stains without soap; in addition, their round molecules transport vitamins well, especially group B;
despite thorough cleansing, this product usually does not cause irritation or damage to the epidermis; it can be used instead of regular washing in the morning and evening;
Helps reduce enlarged pores daily use; its use leads to a significant reduction in oily shine; it can be used for care even after sports activities or on the beach, simply by spraying it on the face;
this product can be used as a toner, moisturizer, and makeup remover;
combines well with other cosmetic products without entering into chemical interactions with them, does not contain alcohol;
Great for mixed, sensitive or combination skin, and after treatment with high-quality micellar water, no additional care cream is required.

It is no longer fashionable to remove makeup with soap and water or even two-phase products. And all because today in the field of skin cleansing, two products with different textures, but a similar effect, rule the roost - hydrophilic oil (hello,) and micellar water. Let's talk about the latter. Is it true that micellar water can replace post-cleansing care? How does it work? And do you need to wash micellar water off your face after getting rid of makeup? The answers to these and other questions are in our material.

How micellar water works

You will be surprised, but micellar water has been around for hundreds of years. It initially gained popularity in France in 1913, so it can easily be classified as a time-tested product. “Micellar water consists of micelles - tiny oil molecules immersed in soft water. The idea is that the micelles attract dirt and oils to them like a magnet, so they can effectively cleanse the skin without damaging the skin barrier,” Hadley King explains to Huffington Post.

The micelles here act as emulsifiers, perfectly dissolving even insoluble compounds that are difficult to wash off with plain water (dirt, sebum, waxes, decorative cosmetics oil based). And due to the fact that micellar water hardly touches the skin itself, the product can really be used as a product for washing, removing makeup and moisturizing at the same time.

Who is micellar water suitable for?

“This product really is very similar to water. In particular, it is transparent and has the viscosity of water, but if you rub a little micellar between your fingers, you will definitely feel that it has a different texture,” cosmetologist Tabasum Mir comments on the Huffington Post.

It's good to know that micellar water won't necessarily handle heavy makeup that includes very heavy or professional foundation, makeup glitter, and waterproof mascara. In this case, you will most likely be helped by hydrophilic oil or - life hack - ordinary oil, which you already have in your kitchen.

Dermatologists especially recommend micellar water to girls with very dry skin, because this way you can provide it with truly gentle cleansing. “A typical foam cleanser can strip the skin of moisture, and the harsh chemicals in the formula will seal the effect,” adds Hadley King. “Plus, unlike many products aimed at cleansing the skin, you most likely will not find acids in micellar water, since its formula does not allow this.”

How to apply and whether to rinse off

You, of course, can apply micellar water to your face with your hands, but it is best to do this with the help of a cotton pad or piece of cotton wool - this way the “magnetic” properties of the water will manifest themselves to the maximum. And keep in mind that if you have fairly oily skin, then micellar water may not work as well as you would like. Experts recommend that owners of oily skin and skin prone to acne use micellar water together with a classic cleanser.

And finally, the main thing: to rinse or not to rinse? When micellar water first took over the beauty market, everyone (including specialists) was sure that washing it off was not only unnecessary, but not even necessary. However, time has passed, and timid attempts by individual dermatologists to remind us that micellar water can sometimes contain surfactants - surfactants such as amino acids, soap and even alcohols, which, in theory, should not be there, have turned into large-scale statements on the topic of.

Among beauty experts, by the way, this issue still remains controversial. But they all agree that you can refuse to rinse off only if the composition of the product does not cause any suspicion in you. But even then, you have every right to use ordinary water to complete the procedure if you feel discomfort without this step. To summarize: theoretically, of course, you can not wash off the micellar water, but it’s better to do it.

Last update: 06/30/2019
Date of publication: 08/07/2017

Can micellar water replace regular washing and how safe is it for the skin - the opinion of cosmetologists and my rating with real reviews of the 11 most popular manufacturers of micellar water from pharmaceutical, professional and budget cosmetics brands in one review: Bioderma, Garnier, La Roche Posay, Vichy, Academie, Venus, Diademine, Avene, Yves Rocher, Black Pearl, Melvita.

I hope this review, based on my personal testing of cosmetics on myself, will help you understand and choose the best micellar water for daily use.

Makeup remover milk, soap, cleansing foam, hydrophilic oil and now micellar water is what cosmetic manufacturers offer for cleansing the skin. It would seem that you have to choose - I don’t want to! But if everything was that simple, beauty bloggers would have nothing to talk about. 8)

Micellar water from this entire arsenal is the most innovative product and, although it seems like an ordinary cosmetic product that any girl has used at least once in her life, ten years ago there was no trace of this thing in stores. And not everyone still understands what it is and why micellar water should be used.

Why not? Due to the fact that the product is completely new, even cosmetologists and manufacturers on the topic of micellar water have so many conflicting recommendations on the use of this cosmetic product, that it is no wonder that among us consumers there are even more myths and confusion around this facial cleanser.

First, I’ll dispel the most important myth and tell you what micellar water is?

Micellar water is not a toner or lotion and cannot replace them- the main thing that is worth learning in this matter. Although, I admit, I MYSELF used it this way for a long time, because I believe what they write on the bottles.

Our mothers and even grandmothers began to “wash themselves with lotion.” Well, remember how the heroine of the Soviet film “Carnival” said that she “doesn’t wash her face with water, but only wipes her face with lotion, because... protects the skin." This was one of the main beauty recipes of Soviet ladies that have survived to our time.

Our mothers bought cucumber lotion in the store, and even I still have an old Soviet book with homemade beauty recipes, where it was suggested to make such a lotion yourself by pouring vodka over chopped cucumbers and leaving it for several days.

Now everyone is smart and knows what harm alcohol does to skin, even to oily skin with acne and pimples, where it would seem that God himself ordered to “cauterize everything.” But alcohol-dried skin and healthy skin are not the same thing. So lotions are, dare I say it, just yesterday. Well, in any case, the lotion is definitely not an alternative to micellar. Different composition, different technology, different operating principle.

In general, I will summarize.

Micellar water is a soft cosmetic product based on micelles, the main task of which is to cleanse the skin of fat, cosmetics, and dust.
Lotion- a water-alcohol based skin cleanser.
Tonic- a toning product and the first stage of skin moisturizing, which is used before applying serum or face cream.

So the difference between micellar solution, toner and lotion is FUNDAMENTAL, even though they all look the same in the store. And manufacturers are not shy about writing on the bottles that they have a “3-in-1” product that combines the qualities of micellar and tonic, simply, only on the basis that they have added caring components to their product, and thereby further mislead consumers misleading.

But first we need to understand the theory.

What is micellar water:

Mushroom micelles have nothing to do with micellar solution; this is another myth.

Micelles are microparticles consisting of fatty acids or surfactants (surfactants), designed in such a way that, like a magnet, they attract sebum, dust and cosmetics without irritating or damaging the skin.

So that all excess remains on a cotton pad soaked in micellar. Fast, easy, effective. No greasy film or skin dried out by alkali or alcohol.

Why and who needs micellar water:

As I said above, micellar water is a gentle cleanser for the skin. With its help, you can easily and quickly wash off makeup or remove grease, dirt and dust of city streets from the skin; by the end of the day they can be found on any face, even the most barefaced one.

Initially, micellar water was generally an exclusively medicinal product, which dermatologists prescribed to people suffering from eczema and dermatitis with increased skin sensitivity. It was also used to care for the skin of newborns. And subsequently, pharmacologists conducted the necessary research and launched the production of micellar water for widespread use in cosmetology.

Today, micellar water can be found both in the form of liquid water and in the form of wipes soaked in a micellar solution, designed for quickly removing makeup where it is needed, for example, on the road.

Taking into account the characteristics of the skin, today you can buy micellar solutions designed for different skin types: oily or dry and sensitive. Of course, it won’t solve all these problems, but it most likely won’t add new ones, which is good.

Micellar water has become a special salvation for those with sensitive and dry skin. Yes, whatever. Even I know from my own experience how chlorinated water in our city apartments can tighten and dry the skin, so that, willy-nilly, you don’t want to wash your face in the mornings and evenings, as the great Moidodyr bequeathed. And I would be glad to at least sometimes give my skin a break.

But micellar water, alas, is by no means a panacea and it is unlikely that you will be able to escape from tap water with its help. And all because the compositions of micellar water are not as simple and safe as they say on the labels. More precisely, not all and not always.

And in order for there to be more benefit than harm, you should choose high-quality cosmetics and follow the rules for its use. And what harm micellar water can cause, we’ll figure it out in the next part of my article.

How to use micellar water:

In cleansing the skin, micellar water is the first step from which you should start washing your face, in the evening, before bed, or when you want to remove makeup from your skin.

The method of using micellar water is quite simple - apply it liberally to a cotton pad and gently rub your face along the massage lines. Eyes, forehead, nose, cheeks and even neck. There is no need to rub or apply any effort, the cotton pad will absorb all the excess by itself. You may have to use more than one or two cotton pads to completely remove makeup from your face.

My life hack for budget-conscious people is that I wipe one side of my face with one side of a cotton pad with micellar, and the other side with the back side of the same pad. Usually this is enough for me to remove day makeup from the face, and the discs and micellar water itself consume half as much.

In any case, after using micellar water, the second stage of skin cleansing will follow - traditional, with water, or if you really want to wash your face with cosmetics - a large number facial tonic. And only a two-phase makeup remover can completely remove stubborn eye makeup.

And now we have come to the question, which to this day is the main stumbling block about which cosmetologists and micellar water manufacturers cannot agree.

Cosmetologists say micellar water should be washed off; manufacturers write on the bottles: “does not require rinsing.” Who is there to believe?

Do I need to wash off micellar water, how and with what?

Allergies, skin irritation and acne are what anyone who took the manufacturers' word for it and limited their washing to micellar water could have encountered. The skin can still forgive this once or twice, but if the washing regime is violated for a long time, the system fails. How does this happen and why does it happen?

Micellar water is absolutely safe for the skin and can be doused with it from head to toe at any time when you want to “refresh yourself” - also a myth, albeit a partial one.

It’s all about the composition of the micellar, as we will look at in more detail below. Firstly, the micelles themselves in solutions come in different origins, in addition, propylene glycols that enhance the effect of surfactants and preservatives themselves can become sources of skin problems. No morning rose extracts will help much here.

In addition, in their reviews of micellar different manufacturers I noted that one way or another, stickiness remains on the skin after any micellar products, from the categories of expensive and cheap, natural or pharmacy cosmetics.

So, it’s safer to wash micellar water off your face with regular water, so as not to encounter a riot of your skin in the form of peeling, redness and even allergic reactions. This is especially true for micellar water from those brands that initially cause you ANY discomfort - burning, sticky film on the skin after use. This is definitely not a reason to experiment.

Micellar water does NOT replace traditional washing with water.- this is another myth. Theoretically, such tricks can be carried out, but on a regular basis, even with the safest brands, you should not abuse them.

And I believe, and cosmetologists support, that micellar water cannot replace traditional washing.

According to Tiina Orasmäe-Meder: The principle of micellar cleansing is, by definition, more gentle than the traditionally used saponification of fats, which always leads to disruption of the skin barrier function. However, even the substances used to create micellar products are not completely neutral in most cases.

Standard recommendations “do not rinse off” micellar products after use imply mechanical removal of the product from the skin using a cotton pad or napkin, and then additional treatment of the skin with an aqueous solution (tonic) to remove product residues and impurities.

However, it is technically very difficult to completely remove the product in this way: to do this, you need to wipe the skin very carefully, and then use tonic much more generously than most consumers are used to - almost no one uses more than 0.5 ml of tonic, whereas for cleansing it would be good to use at least 5 ml.

And a useful video about the correct and safe use of micellar water from a cosmetologist:

Safety, compositions and categories of micellar water based on them:

Is there a difference between cheap micellar water for three rubles or, like with face cream, is it not worth skimping on?

Let's try to figure it out first at the category level of micellar water, which is divided based on the origin of those same micelles.

Micellar water based on poloxomers:

Poloxamer is a relatively safe cleansing ingredient for the skin, however, in some cases it can exhibit toxic properties. In the composition, this ingredient is designated as (Poloxamer 188, 407, 124, 338, etc.).

Poloxamer is an emulsifier, dispersant and wetting agent. Used in the production of shampoos, makeup removers, and oral care products. Has antimicrobial activity.

The micellar Venus and Avene from my review have a combined composition, which in addition to poloxamers also contains PEG. This is also a fairly common combination.

Micellar water with eco-composition:

This water contains environmentally friendly cleansing ingredients (Lauryl Glucoside, Coco Glucoside, Disodium Coco-Glucoside Citrate, Sodium Coco-Glucoside Tartrate), most often used in natural cosmetics. These ingredients are non-toxic and do not cause skin irritation, but cosmetologists still recommend not to overuse even them.

Lauryl Glucoside A cleansing and surfactant extracted from glucose and coconut oil.

This surfactant has very mild cleansing properties and is completely non-toxic. Despite this, recently there have been discussions about the safety of this substance. There is a grading system for lauryl glucoside based on purity and quality. If the purity and quality of lauryl glucoside are violated, there is a high probability of allergic reactions.

Brands in this category: NUXE, Melvita from my review, as well as micellar solutions from the iherb website - MyChelle Dermaceuticals and DermaE

PEG based micellar water:

PEG is a large group of components that is often found in cosmetics, medicines and even food products as a preservative.

The abbreviation PEG stands for Polyethylene Glycol. Most often it is isolated from castor oil, or even more often - from oil. Due to the fact that poorly purified PEG is toxic and carcinogenic, and because of this, PEG can increase the absorption by the skin and mucous membranes of more dangerous co-ingredients in cosmetics, therefore PEG can often be seen in lists of dangerous ingredients in cosmetics.

In general, manufacturers consider this ingredient safe provided that a certain level of concentration of the ingredient in a cosmetic product is observed and cosmetics containing it are used on healthy skin without damage. Because a properly manufactured PEG will not contain a single molecule of Dioxane and will not be dangerous to humans (if the polymerization went as expected).

What conclusions can be drawn from information about the composition of cosmetics?

In my opinion, here we need to maintain a balance of common sense - between trusting brands that do not have the deliberate goal of destroying humanity through micellar water, but still keeping abreast of it in order to minimize possible risks or troubles. Trust, so to speak, but check.

The main thing is to remember that just by reading PEG or Coco Glucoside on the label, we will never know how safe the cosmetics REALLY are. The composition, alas, does not reveal the quality of the ingredient used by the manufacturer of the cosmetic product, nor what degree of purification it has, nor what concentration it has in its composition, nor how it interacts with other ingredients; not every chemistry department graduate will be able to figure it out right away.

This means putting them on a par and comparing them at the consumer level. cosmetical tools Unfortunately, it won’t work just based on the main working ingredient in the composition, but it is advisable to know all this.

Well, it’s still better to wash micellar water off the skin, just in case, so to speak. 8)

Is it possible to do without micellar water in care:

High-quality cleansing of facial skin is undoubtedly one of the most important guarantees of its beauty and health. But, in my personal opinion, the importance of micellar water in this matter is somewhat exaggerated. And not only because the question of its absolute safety is in question. (if you start digging into other cosmetics, things are no better with this one)

But because, having tried a lot of different brands from different categories of composition, I was able to verify the personal experience and I declare with all responsibility - micellar water is NOT able to completely remove makeup, especially persistent. Therefore, it is definitely impossible to call it a truly universal cleanser that can replace and cancel other cosmetic products in this category.

And micellar water, facial wash or hydrophilic oil, in my opinion, are only good if they are properly combined. First, I wash off my makeup with micellar water, and then, whatever it doesn’t remove, I wash off with foam cleanser and water. The only way.

And this is currently the most reliable method for me to effectively remove makeup that exists.

My ranking for the title of “Best Micellar Water” out of 11 well-known brands:

And finally, I will finish with the theoretical part of my review and write my reviews of the micellar water that I have tried or use in my daily life.

Because theory is theory, but even a chemical specialist is not enough to make a verdict. Experience, experimentation and observation are required.

And I, as the owner sensitive skin and especially the eyes, in these cosmetic tests I encountered unpleasant consequences from some brands of micellar water.

Thank God I didn’t develop a real allergy, but if the micellar stung my skin and corroded my eyes, for me this was the very wake-up call that made me decide to give up this micellar water and write down the brand from my rating as an outsider.

And since I have almost a scientific experiment here, I’ll tell you not just some theoretical speculation based on reviews from the Internet, but about my own observations based on practical experience in using them. Fortunately, sometimes one or two applications were enough to reach a verdict.

Does micellar water cause irritation (allergies)
How well does micellar remove makeup?
my general sensations after washing with a micellar solution (fragrance, feeling of stickiness, tightness, etc.)

Review of Bioderma micellar water:

Ask on any cosmetic forum which micellar water is the best - and Bioderma Sensibio H2O will definitely be in the top three.

It was with Bioderma micellar water that my acquaintance with this product category began; numerous positive reviews for it and the 2 for the price of 1 promotion left no choice. And I bought myself a double pack twice. Needless to say, I have used 2 liters of micellar water for more than one year and I still use this water to this day. Although, hand on heart, now I do not consider it the best.

Bioderma micellar water composition:

First, I don't really like the fact that Bioderma smells like iron. We can say that it is odorless, but for some reason I feel it is iron. And the main feeling from it is that I wash my face with hard water. In general, I definitely do not have enough caring components in it. And thirdly, it handles makeup well, but worse than even some of the cheap participants in my review.

On the other hand, I used this micellar water for quite a long time (just like a toner, without rinsing it off) and never had any unpleasant moments that I could complain about. As you will understand later, this in itself is a big plus.

My rating: 4 out of 5 points

Buy Bioderma micellar water You can do it like other pharmacy cosmetics, the best deal now is at Pharmcosmetics (like I have, 500 ml of Bioderma micellar can now be bought here for 1,412 rubles)

And don’t forget that using the promotional code CUP17 you can get an additional discount at Pharma - 17% on your order.

Review of La Roche Posay micellar water:

In 2017, La Roche Posay released their micellar water in a “sensitive skin” format. I tried both new and old and even regularly bought Toleran eye makeup remover, which had one drawback - the packaging format.

I don’t know who recommended that they release an eye cleanser in ampoule format. Maybe it’s hygienic and all that, but it’s absolutely not budget-friendly. No wonder it was discontinued. Because of which I suffered for some time, until I tried the new micellar LRP Ultra.

Composition of La Roche Pose Ultra micellar water:

In general, the standard La Roche Posay micellar did not cause me great delight. Good, but nothing outstanding. The updated La Roche Posay Ultra is definitely my favorite.

Removes makeup easily and effortlessly, simply a champion in speed of makeup removal! I just applied a cotton pad and that’s it. Or almost everything. If the makeup is too persistent, then even this miracle product won’t do the job on its own.

I will join numerous positive reviews of La Roche Pose micellar water, it is sooo soft and gentle, absolutely no worse than my favorite Toleran ampoules for removing makeup from sensitive eyes. In general, among pharmacy brands, La Roche Posay has the coolest micellar product - that's for sure!

My rating: 5 out of 5 points

The most profitable place to buy La Roche Posay micellar water is now on the Pharmcosmetics website - RUB 1,423. for a large bottle.

Last year Lumen updated the design, packaging and... prices of their cosmetics, which increased noticeably. I somehow didn’t have a good relationship with the old skincare products of this brand, so it was doubly interesting for me to try and understand what has changed since then.

And again, without much prelude, I’ll tell you that Lumene micellar water simply didn’t suit me, causing irritation from the first use. I tried it twice and the reaction was exactly the same. Well, for the third time I did not mock my body. Am I a monster?

And by the way, again phoenixethanol in the composition. So that you understand, phenixethanol is a derivative of formaldehyde, and it is a strong carcinogen that can cause tumors. It is clear that micellar alone will not poison you, but it is better to minimize this dangerous ingredient in your cosmetics bag, fortunately, there is something to replace it with.

In general, Lumene's design has changed, but my skepticism towards the brand has not yet.

My rating: 2 out of 5 points

Price for Powder from 495 to 855 rubles. depending on volume

Review of micellar water DIADEMINE:

Micellar water Diademen is quite a good budget product, which I rarely use, because... I have better makeup removers in my arsenal.

And so, everything in it is quite average for a hospital, without any special cleansing properties and still with the same annoying stickiness as a result of use.

My rating: 4 out of 5 points

My rating: 5 out of 5 points

The cheapest micellar water in my review, you can buy it in just for 149 rub.. on the website of the Podruzhka online store

Results of my rating:

Well, I suppose, in order to summarize such a long post, I’ll put everything in its place.

Micellar water La Roche Posay
Micellar water “Black Pearl”
Micellar water NUXE

“Good guys”: micellar water Bioderma, Vichy, Aven, Diademin, Venus

“Outsiders”: micellar water Yves Rocher, Academy, Lumene, Garnier

Micellar water is a gentle cleanser. It is able to dissolve makeup and impurities, preserving the hydrolipidic film of the skin.

Compound

Micellar water is similar in appearance to ordinary water, but it contains micelles - microscopic particles of surfactants with a special structure. It consists of a hydrophilic “head” (stretched towards water) and a hydrophobic tail (repels water molecules). The micelles absorb fat, dust particles, dead cells, makeup and other micro-pollutants and are then easily removed from the skin surface.

The micellar water formula contains no soap, and the peculiarity of its formulation allows you to avoid the use of parabens, silicones and fragrances. Manufacturers often include useful auxiliary components in its composition, such as plant oils and vitamins.

Development history

Micellar molecules were discovered at the University of Bristol back in 1913, but the history of micellar water began in France only in the early 2000s. The new product was designed to help French women suffering from hard tap water, and marked the beginning of the trend for waterless washing. Very soon it became a must-have item in the beauty arsenal of girls with dry and sensitive skin.

Now such products can be found in any supermarket, but at first they were sold only in pharmacies. The trendsetters for micellar water were: pharmacy brands, for example, La Roche-Posay and Vichy.

How to choose micellar water

Now this is one of the most popular categories of products in the “cleansing” section. Almost all brands have micellar water - from those that specialize in care to professional brands for makeup artists. Products from a more expensive price category contain more valuable components, but you can also find an excellent product at an affordable price. Focus on the active ingredients and aroma - it can be natural floral, lightly perfumed or completely absent.

Types of micellar water

Universal

Micellar water labeled “for all skin types” is a real godsend for makeup artists, but for you and me it’s a great option for every day. Suitable for almost everyone for removing makeup (including around the eyes) and washing.

For sensitive skin

Does your skin turn red quickly, react to wind, frost and hard water, and does not work well with every cream? Pay attention to the label “for sensitive skin”. Skin-friendly products are fragrance-free and include: large quantity softening components.

For oily and problem skin

As a rule, such water has an additional matting property due to absorbent and sebum-regulating components (for example, salicylic acid). These products are not recommended for use in the area around the eyes, and they are generally not suitable for those with dry and sensitive skin.

Application features

Despite the fact that this is almost the easiest cleanser to use, it raises a lot of questions among users.

Do I need to wash it off?

Manufacturers try to make the composition of their products as delicate as possible, but cosmetologists advise rinsing off micellar water. The product is safe to use, but its particles can form a film on the surface of the skin, which can cause discomfort and lead to irritation.

If you travel and, for example, travel on a train, you can safely prefer waterless washing to regular washing - nothing bad will happen just once. Just don’t forget, if possible, to use a tonic or moisturizing lotion after micellar water.

Can it be used instead of toner?

It is worth distinguishing between these categories, since they solve different problems, although they have the same form factor (which is why buyers are often confused). Any micellar water, despite the presence of vitamins and softening components in the composition, is a cleanser. And for pronounced caring properties, it is better to turn to lotions and creams.

Tonic is an important step in care. It should complete the skin cleansing procedure by restoring the pH level disturbed during washing.

Is it suitable for removing makeup?

Yes. Moreover, this product was popularized by makeup artists who use it as a means for quickly removing makeup and preparing the skin for makeup application. Micellar water will not remove stage and film makeup - oil-based products will come to the rescue here. But it will cope with daytime and even evening makeup with a bang.

Micellar water is ideal for correcting mistakes when applying makeup. It does not leave a greasy film, which means you can correct an arrow or an uneven lip contour in just one movement, as if erasing with an eraser.

How to use micellar water correctly

To remove light daytime makeup (loose foundation, unstable pencils, liners and mascara), just lightly wipe the skin with a cotton pad soaked in micellar water, then rinse your face with water or use a tonic.

To remove stubborn eyeshadow and lipstick or dissolve a thick layer foundation, micellar water will also work, but the process will take a little longer. If the product does not give a 100% result, use a cleansing gel or foam.

Looking for a gentle morning cleanser? Take a closer look at this product. At night, our skin actively produces sebum and sweat, its glands do not stop working for a minute.

In the morning, washing with plain water is not enough, since it is unable to dissolve the fatty components of the skin sebum. Only special cleansers containing surfactants can do this. For example, micellar water.

Limitations of use

If you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, do not rush to give up micellar water. Find the right one: look for the label “for sensitive skin” on the packaging, avoid fragrances. Be sure to rinse off the micellar water. If you feel discomfort, don’t tempt fate and give the bottle to a friend with less sensitive skin.

Alternative formats

Micellar water in its pure form has already become a classic of the genre. Improved formulas and new formats are now appearing in this category.

Micellar water with oils

Being the heirs of popular two-phase products, these products took from their predecessors the ability to effectively dissolve even super-resistant cosmetics without irritating the skin. Such products do not leave a greasy or sticky film and have more pronounced caring properties, which is nice.

Micellar gel

A very delicate product with a more gentle effect compared to regular gels and foam formula. Ideal for morning cleansing and works great as part of a two-step evening wash. Lather a little gel in your palms, apply with massaging movements and rinse your face with water.

Rating of the best funds

At first glance, micellar water is a simple and universal product for everyone. In fact, among the new products in this category, many products have appeared for different type skin, including sensitive.

For dry skin

The best micellar water for dry skin according to the site

Biosource, Biotherm softens the skin, removes makeup from the face and eyes.

Micellar water L "Oréal Paris for dry and sensitive skin: The hypoallergenic formula contains glycerin for added hydration.

For combination and oily skin

The best micellar water for combination and oily skin according to the site

Effaclar Ultra, La Roche-Posay: zinc controls sebum production, and glycerin moisturizes the skin.

Balancing micellar lotion, L'Oréal Paris: The hypoallergenic formula does not contain alcohol or fragrance.

Micellar lotion Normaderm, Vichy – has a calming and sebum-regulating effect due to zinc in the composition.

For sensitive skin

The best micellar water for sensitive skin according to the site

Ultra Reactive Skin, La Roche-Posay Provides gentle cleansing and moisturizing thanks to glycerin.

Micellar water " Clean skin", Garnier removes makeup residue and soothes.

Micellar water with essential oil roses Aroma Cleanse, Decléor cleanses and softens the skin.

For all skin types

The best micellar water for all skin types according to the site

Cleansing water for makeup removal Eau Micellaire Douceur, Lancôme Removes makeup quickly and effectively, leaving you feeling fresh.

Biphasic micellar water L"Oréal Paris– the alcohol-free formula does not dry out the skin, does not leave a greasy film, and washes off waterproof makeup.

Micellar water with oils, Garnier provides a cleansing effect. The 400 ml volume is enough for 200 uses.

Micellar lotion Pureté Thermal 3-in-1, Vichy: Thanks to Gallic rose extract and panthenol, it delicately cleanses the skin without disturbing the natural protective barrier.