What is micellar water and why should you use it?

What is micellar water

Micellar water has become a go-to cleansing solution for those seeking a gentle yet effective way to remove makeup, pollution and daily impurities. Lightweight, refreshing and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it offers a simple, no-rinse start to your skincare routine. 


At Clarins, our cleansing micellar water blends gentle micelles with soothing botanical extracts to respect the skin’s natural balance while delivering visible freshness, comfort and radiance.


What is micellar water?


Micellar water is a liquid cleanser formulated with micelles, tiny cleansing molecules that act like magnets for dirt and impurities. Suspended in soft water, these micelles capture makeup, sebum and pollution without disrupting the skin natural barrier. Unlike foaming cleansers that require rinsing, micellar water cleanses in one soft sweep,leaving the skin clean, soft and comfortable.

How micelles work

- Attract makeup, sebum and pollutants

- Lift away impurities with no rubbing

- Leave the skin feeling refreshed, not tight or dry



Micellar water benefits


Micellar water is known for its simplicity and sensoriality. Clarins elevates this cleansing step with plant-powered ingredients selected for their affinity with even the most delicate skin.

Why add micellar water to your routine?

- Gently removes makeup including light eye makeup

- Respects sensitive skin thanks to soft micelles and soothing botanical extracts

- Refreshes and tones the skin in one effortless step

- Prepares the skin for serum and moisturiser

- No-rinse formula ideal for travel, quick morning refresh or evening routines



The + Clarins

Clarins fresh micellar water is enriched with alpine herbs from the Clarins Herbarium, and crafted in France. Its delicate, nature-inspired fragrance adds a moment of sensorial wellbeing to your daily routine.



Micellar water vs Toner


Although they may appear similar, micellar water and toner play different roles.

Micellar water

- Cleanses and removes makeup

- Captures impurities with micelles

- Used as the first step in your routine

Toner

- Balances and refines the skin after cleansing

- Provides hydration and comfort

- Prepares the skin for treatment products



How to combine the two

Start with micellar water to remove impurities, then follow with a Clarins face toner suited to your skin’s needs for more hydration and radiance.



Is micellar water good for sensitive skin?


Yes. Micellar water is often recommended for sensitive skin due to its minimal-rubbing application and gentle cleansing action. The Clarins cleansing micellar water is formulated with calming plant extracts and has been tested for tolerance, making it suitable for delicate, reactive or easily stressed skin types.



Tips for sensitive skin:

- Use soft, sweeping motions with a reusable cotton pad

- Choose formulas with calming plants

- Follow with a hydrating toner and moisturiser



How to use micellar water correctly


  1. Soak a cotton pad with micellar water
  2. Gently sweep across the face, eyes and lips
  3. Repeat until the pad comes away clean
  4. Follow with your toner, serum and moisturiser


No need to rinse. Enjoy the refreshing, clean-skin sensation.


FAQ


What is micellar water used for?

Micellar water removes makeup, pollution and impurities in one simple, no-rinse step, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.

Is micellar water suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. Its gentle, no-rub application makes it ideal for sensitive skin. Clarins formulas include soothing plant extracts for added comfort.

Does micellar water replace a cleanser?

It can be used alone, but many prefer it as the first step of a double cleanse, especially when wearing long-lasting makeup or sunscreen.

What’s the difference between micellar water and toner?

Micellar water cleanses, while toner balances and hydrates. Used together, they create a complete cleansing routine.

Can micellar water remove eye makeup?

Yes, it removes light eye makeup gently. For waterproof formulas, pair it with a dedicated eye makeup remover.

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