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These 8 Ipster-Approved Micellar Waters Are the Ideal Skincare Solution for Lazy Days

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Repeat after us: The foundation of every great skincare routine is always, always, always a great cleanser. Whether you have oily skin, acne-prone skin, or sensitive skin, the face wash formula you choose should effectively remove all traces of makeup, dirt, and bacteria while still leaving your skin's delicate moisture barrier intact. Over the past few years, there's one cleansing product that dermatologists, makeup artists, and skincare lovers all seem to swear by for its ability to do just that. Enter: micellar water. The multitasking, water-based, no-rinse cleanser (which originated in French pharmacies) contains soft water and micelles, tiny balls of oil that act like magnets to remove dirt and makeup on the surface of your skin. This skincare product applies like a toner but works as a cleanser, effectively wiping away dirt, excess oil, and waterproof makeup.

While micellar water works like a charm for almost all skin types (sensitive skin, proceed with caution!), certain micellar cleansers are designed to target specific skin concerns like brightening, acne, redness, and more. If you're wondering which formula is right for you, continue reading below to learn more about the eight best micellar water formulas for every skin type. P.S.—seven of these products have already been given rave reviews by Ipsters who received these cleansers in past Glam Bags.

DERMA E Vitamin C Micellar Cleansing Water
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DERMA E Vitamin C Micellar Cleansing Water

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This multitasking micellar will cleanse your skin while also brightening up your complexion, thanks to an added dose of vitamin C. It also contains probiotics to keep your skin balanced and can even help to promote collagen production to improve your skin's texture. Love, love, and love.

Ipsters rave about the way this skincare product simplifies their routine. “I LOVE THIS. It is so super nice for a lazy person like me. Gets rid of all my makeup and makes my skin feel super clean and refreshed,” says one Ipster. “I loved the fact that it made the appearance of my face brighter and refreshed,” says another.

SIMPLE Water Boost Micellar Makeup Remover Pads
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SIMPLE Water Boost Micellar Makeup Remover Pads

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Need a quick cleansing solution for your gym or travel bag? These convenient wipes easily remove waterproof makeup, dirt, and excess sebum without stripping your skin of moisture. In this formula, you'll also find pentavitin extract which, like squalane, mimics natural substances found in your skin to provide super-effective, fast-absorbing moisturizing benefits.

“These are great. My skin is easily irritated when rubbing and these wipes don't do that,” says one Ipster. Another adds: “Removed my makeup without leaving residue or my face red. I loved this!!“

EAU THERMALE AVÈNE Micellar Lotion Cleanser and Make-up Remover
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EAU THERMALE AVÈNE Micellar Lotion Cleanser and Make-up Remover

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This must-have product effortlessly removes makeup while also acting as an effective cleanser and toner. After lifting away dirt and grime, you're left with clean, smooth, super soft skin. This gentle formula is specifically made with sensitive skin types in mind—so if you’re on the hunt for a gentle micellar solution, opt for this cleanser to minimize your risk of irritation.

Ipsters love the way it tackles stubborn makeup. “Works really well on smeared mascara and lipstick,” says one fan. “Really nice on my sensitive and dry skin,” shares another.

BIODERMA LABORATOIRE DERMATOLOGIQUE Sensibio H2O
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BIODERMA LABORATOIRE DERMATOLOGIQUE Sensibio H2O

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Not only will this OG cleansing water dissolve dirt and makeup from your skin, but it will also absorb nasties impurities from pollution, making it the perfect no-nonsense, no-rinse cleanser. "This water is a miracle magic eraser," says one Ipster. "It makes it so much easier to remove makeup, and I don't have to spend much time scrubbing at my face, either."

This formula can be especially great for breakout-prone or irritated skin as it includes soothing cucumber extract, which not only helps to tame inflammation but also acts as a natural moisturizer.

Want to streamline the makeup removal process? This powerful micellar water removes your eye makeup (and even that extra longwear lipstick you love) without irritating your skin. This is mainly thanks to soothing cica, an antibacterial ingredient with anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. It's the perf companion for anyone who suffers from redness, rosacea, or irritation.

NEOGEN DERMALOGY Real Flower Cleansing Water - Calendula
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NEOGEN DERMALOGY Real Flower Cleansing Water - Calendula

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Look closely and you'll find real calendula petals suspended in this gentle formula. The natural, botanical ingredient is an ideal skincare companion for anyone with acne-prone skin, oily skin, combination skin, or redness. It helps to balance sebum production to keep your skin breakout-free and hydrated while it works as a natural cleansing agent. When paired with a micellar water base, you can feel confident that all impurities, makeup, and grime are effectively wiped away.

"Very gentle and removes waterproof makeup with a single swipe," one Ipster says. "AND no oily residue is left behind!"

ZIAJA Natural Olive Micellar Water
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ZIAJA Natural Olive Micellar Water

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This hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested formula combines glycerin, olive oil, and provitamin B5 to create a gentle, no-rinse formula that removes makeup, cleanses skin, and soothes irritations in one fell swoop. Glycerin is a tried-and-true humectant that draws moisture from the air into the upper layers of the skin for much-need hydration; olive oil helps to lift away dirt and sebum while also providing antioxidant benefits, and vitamin B5 helps to soothe and heal irritated skin.

"I used this to clean my face after I took off my makeup and it was amazing," Ipster jwow331 writes. "It got off dirt and oils that I couldn't even see...and it has no odor and no alcohol smell or feel."

PURIFECT BY SYMPHONY BEAUTY Micellar Cleansing Water in Coconut
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PURIFECT BY SYMPHONY BEAUTY Micellar Cleansing Water

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The hero ingredient in our final micellar cleanser is coconut extract, a skin-loving ingredient that comes with a long list of benefits. It's moisturizing, antibacterial, and it even helps to improve the texture of the skin. Plus, the extract naturally gives this cleanser a delightful, subtle tropical fragrance.

"Love this," says Ipster TSBEQUETTE. "Was great for a mid-day clean. Left my dry skin feeling soft and clean."

Want to refresh your skin and banish the days of dry, dull complexions? Then it's time you add micellar water to your skincare routine. This on-the-go remover and cleanser is a hydrating alternative to harsh facial cleansers and tap water. Trust us, your skin will thank you.

Want in on all the IPSY Glam Bag fun? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started. Already an Ipster? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.

About the author
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Cortney Clift
Cortney is a New York-based freelance writer who has written about beauty and wellness for more than six years. She was previously the senior writer and special projects editor at Brit + Co where she covered a wide range of news and lifestyle topics.
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Article Last Updated July 24, 2023 12:00 AM