When it comes to skincare, it is important to start skincare routine with removing makeup at the end of the day, people choose makeup remover as first step to remove their makeup then move on to next cleansing process. However, you have probably heard about micellar water. Some people suggest take micellar water as an alternative way to remover their makeup. But, what is the difference between micellar water and makeup remover? And, what is the ideal products to remove makeup in a gentler and lower harm way to your skin?
Before that, Let’s take a look of each!
What is Micellar Water?
Micellar water is a gentle, water-based cleanser that contains cleaning molecules (known as micelles). Micellar water is a commonly used skin care product, and act like a magnet, in terms of helping to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Some people may use micellar water as cleansers, toner and light makeup remover. However, some people may doubt that micellar water may not be strong enough to remove heavy makeup or waterproof cosmetics.
Benefits of Micellar Water
Gentle on the skin: using micellar water with cotton pads can help removing any impurities and dirt
More hydrating than makeup wipes: many makeup wipes contain alcohol and fragrance that may dry out or causing irritation to the skin
Micelles draw out pore-clogging oils: micelles are proven to prevent oil from stripped of the skin, leaving skin feeling tight and dry
Quick Guide: How to use Micellar Water?
- Step One: Use soft cotton pads and gentle washcloth to apply micellar water, pour an adequate amount of micellar water onto the pads and washcloth, do not skimp as the micellar water needs to fully soak in the pads and washcloth
- Step Two: Then, use the cotton pads or washcloth to remove cosmetics or sunscreen gently for the whole face. Remember to start with the eyes because it takes a few seconds to dissolve eye makeup, also avoid rubbing too harsh to prevent irritation (no need to rinse it off!)
- Step Three: If you have been wearing long-last makeup or sunscreen, follow with regular cleanser to ensure all impurities or dirt are removed from the skin and make sure your skin us fully prepared for skincare products to absorb
What is Makeup Remover?
Makeup remover is a skincare product that specifically formulated to remove makeup from the skin. Most of the makeup remover products are designed to remove cosmetic products effectively, including foundation, lipsticks and even waterproof mascara. Most importantly, makeup remover is designed to cause lower irritation and harm to the skin. Besides, makeup remover has many different forms, such as oils, gels, balms, and creams base.
Types of Makeup Removers:
- Oil-based: suitable for removing waterproof makeup, deeply cleaning skin when wearing makeup all day
- Gel-based: gentle on the skin. hydrating components including aloe vera, glycerine, and hyaluronic acid used in many makeup remover gels, these components help in moisture and provide hydration to skin
- Cream/Balm-based: ideal for dry and mature skin, mitigate the friction of the skin (lower the rubbing of the skin)
Benefits of Makeup Remover
Powerful cleansing ability: Makeup remover is formulated to break down various types of makeup, including waterproof mascaras, long wear foundations and pigmented lipsticks
Easily to remove heavy makeup: makeup remover like cleansing oil, cleansing gel and cleansing balm are specifically designed to break down makeup without aggressive rubbing
Fully prepare skin for skincare products: cleansing is the first and most important step for skincare routine, makeup remover can ensure skin for absorbing fully of following skincare products, such as toner, serum and cream.
Quick Guide: How to use Makeup Remover?
- Step One: Dispense into dry hands and massage over the dry face and eyes to dissolve surface oil and dirt
- Step Two: Wet hands and continue massaging to create a light and milky emulsion
- Step Three: Rinse with warm water and follow with regular cleanser
Micellar Water vs Makeup Remover: Key Differences
| Feature | Micellar Water | Makeup Remover |
| Cleansing Power | Gentle, light to mild makeup | Effective for heavy/waterproof makeup |
| Skin Type | Good for all skin types | Suitable for all types of skin, varies by formula |
| Usage | One-step with cotton pads | One-step, often two-step cleanse, depends on the products |
| Portability | Easier for travelling | May need water |
| Residual Risk | If not wipe thoroughly may cause pores or acnes | May be difficult to wash it all completely |
Micellar Water vs Makeup Remover: Which One Should You Use?
There’s no one fits all answer, it depends on the sunscreen and makeup you wear. it comes down to your skin type and makeup habits.
For light makeup or sunscreen, micellar water may be the ideal choice, it helps remove the makeup or dirt gently and effectively. However, if you wear heavier makeup or long wear cosmetics, makeup remover like oils and gels are much more effective than micellar water, resulting in deep clean for your skin. Moreover, if you are serious about clean and healthy skin, using both micellar water and makeup remover can also help maintaining a hydrated and glowing skin.
Whatever you choose, always remember to use nourishing skincare products to protect your skincare barrier.
Dermatologist Recommended Products
If you are looking for a high-quality makeup remover, here are two popular dermatologist-recommended products:
Dermalogica Precleanse Makeup Remover
This product is oil-based form which helps melt away makeup and debris. Thoroughly melt away layers of excess sebum (oil), sunscreen, waterproof make-up, environmental pollutants and residual products that build up on skin throughout the day, reducing the sign of skin aging. Ideal for every skin type, even for oily skin conditions.
Goldfaden MD Makeup Remover ”Pure Start”
This product is a daily 3-in-1 advanced gel cleanser that dissolves impurities, removing dead skin, excess oil, and makeup in one simple step, particularly helps to balance skin’s natural pH levels. key ingredients are including with seaweed extract, which works to improve moisture of the skin; grapefruit oil, which helps cleanse and improve skin colour and tones; rose hip seed oil, which provides unique aid for environmental pollutants.
