When it comes to skincare, beauty experts and brands are approaching self-care in the simplest way. Think “more is less” and functional minimalism which allows for proper self-care while being quick and seamless. We’re talking about quality over quantity when it comes to skincare. SKIN Functional, a South African brand highlights Micellar Water as one beauty product for this year that will change how you do your skincare.
Micellar water might be a relatively new skincare staple, but the refreshing liquid cleanser and makeup remover has quickly taken the beauty world by storm and garnered endorsements from makeup artists and dermatologists alike. While it’s most often used as a facial cleanser, the clear, watery liquid can be used in several other ways.
What is Micellar Water?
Kevin Khosa, a skin expert at SKIN Functional explained that: “Micellar water is a purified water that contains micelles, which are tiny cleansing molecules that break down dirt, oil and impurities, cleansing the skin without the need to rinse with water after. These bi-functional micelles are attracted to water and the other to oil, allowing them to draw out impurities, including makeup and pollution, without stripping the skin’s natural oils.”
How does it work?
Due to the gentleness of micellar water, it is the perfect choice for people who suffer from dry, inflamed or irritated skin that might be further exacerbated by traditional cleansing. It also helps lift impurities that can remain on the skin even after cleansing due to its intelligent structure which attracts dirt.
“Studies show that micellar water is one of just a few cleansing formulations that actually help maintain and protect the skin barrier while it works,” added Khosa.
Different ways to use it:
- To cleanse your face;
- As a leave-on tonic
- To remove your makeup and mascara;
- To clean your makeup brushes
Why should you use Micellar Water?
Not only is it a great way to cleanse your skin while still protecting your barrier, but makeup artists swear by it for effectively lifting away makeup rather than smearing it around the skin. In addition, its gentle formulation promotes a healthy skin pH and prevents water from irritating the skin. The micellar water effectively hydrates and soothes even the most inflamed areas, helping the complexion look plump and smooth while also reducing redness.
If you want to even out and brighten your skin tone: look for one that contains brightening vitamin C. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it is advisable to avoid extra ingredients that could further irritate your face, like fragrances. Try a formula with a gentle add-in like soothing aloe that will calm inflammation or irritation.
How to use micellar water as a cleanser?
“The standard way to use micellar water as a cleanser is to wipe the face with a cotton pad soaked in this liquid magic. Then, continue wiping the face with additional micellar water-soaked pads as needed until the last one remains white. The water works by breaking down and removing any makeup, oil and impurities from pores, while the pads whisk it away,” explained Khosa.
If you’re a double cleansing believer or if you have oily and combination skin, Khosa recommends completing an additional cleansing step with a water-soluble foam or gel cleanser to ensure no unwanted residue remains and compromises your skin. “Simply wet skin and wash your face as normal with your preferred cleanser. Then, rinse fully and pat skin dry before applying your moisturiser and SPF to lock in hydration,” added Khosa.
