What are the downsides of micellar water?
While micellar water is a great product for removing makeup, it can be used incorrectly—causing issues around the eye area where the skin is the most delicate and sensitive. Dr. Sommerlad refers to this as mechanical misuse. “Users who rub vigorously rather than following the soak-and-glide method negate its gentleness advantage entirely,” she says.
Though it can be tempting to aggressively scrub away any trace of makeup—especially at the end of the day, when you want to hop into bed—taking the time to gently remove makeup will not only protect your eyes but make the removal process much smoother.
When should I not use micellar water?
Generally, micellar water is well-tolerated. Those with very dry or sensitive skin may find that the formulas for sensitive skin are more suitable. While there are no issues with daily use, Dr. Sommerlad suggests avoiding micellar water if you have known sensitivity to any of the ingredients in the formulation.
She also notes that people who have recently undergone aesthetic procedures—including laser, microneedling, and chemical peels—also shouldn’t use it. “The disrupted barrier is more susceptible to anything topical,” she explains. “Use only what your clinician advises: Ask them directly what you can cleanse with.”
Do I need to wash my face if I use micellar water?
Knowing what you’ve learned about micellar water and how it works, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you can substitute it as a replacement for your cleanser. While you technically could, Dr. Sommerlad advises only doing this in certain circumstances. “Micellar water is an excellent first-step cleanser and makeup remover, but it is not a comprehensive substitute for an evening facial cleanse,” she explains. “A proper cleanser at the correct pH, applied to wet skin and emulsified before rinsing, actively lifts and removes sebum, pollutants, dead skin cells, and microbial debris.”
The few instances when it may suffice as a sole cleanser, she says, are for people who have very dry or sensitive skin and only on days where SPF or significant makeup isn’t worn—situations that apply to very few.
Can micellar water be overused?
Generally, no. However, while daily use (even twice daily) shouldn’t cause any issues, extreme overuse is possible. “Micellar water does contain surfactants and is not ‘just plain water’ alone, so overuse can lead to irritation and eventually disrupt the skin barrier leading to easy reactivity,” Dr. Sommerlad says.
A version of this story was previously published on Glamour UK.
