Seen as a face-cleansing miracle, the micellar water is a solution that not only cleanses the skin but also removes makeup. Easy and clear as water, it hides micelles—the cleansing molecules—in plain sight. These surfactant molecules act like a magnet that attracts impurities and any residue that’s illegally inhabiting the surface of your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may think twice before trying a new formula; but fear not, with these formulas of micellar water for sensitive skin, your skin is going to love it.
What is micellar water?
Micellar water is a face cleanser that works to lift impurities and makeup from the surface of your skin. As we further detail in our post dedicated to explaining how to use micellar water, the micelles present in the formulas are surfactant molecules, cleansing agents that efficiently remove oil-based particles that are sitting on your skin. Once you try it, you’ll see that micellar water is just as convenient as it sounds.
Won’t micellar water irritate my sensitive skin?
The first thing to consider is if the formula is suitable for sensitive skin; if that’s the case, you can give it a try! Micelles, on their own, shouldn’t do any harm. The risk lies in the ingredients that make each specific formulation.
Another key point in managing irritation is the application; as using micellar water involves some level of friction on the skin, you should be mindful and work it as gently as you possibly can. As you can see, there’s little to no irritation to blame on the micelles.
How is micellar water for sensitive skin different?
As you may find true for any skincare product category, product formulas vary a lot. Micellar water is primarily designed to cleanse the skin, but there are formulas that go the extra mile. Some micellar water formulas include ingredients like vitamin C to boost your skin glow; others may incorporate perfume to improve the application experience or even alcohol. Even though these features are going to work for most people, they may not be a good idea for sensitive skin. By using micellar water for sensitive skin, you’re making sure that not only your formula won’t include ingredients that are common triggers for sensitive skin, but it also combines soothing ingredients to make sure your skin stays happy.
Must-try formulas of micellar water for sensitive skin
Time to find out which formulas deserve a chance to star in your skincare routine. There are a few suggestions that hardly come as a surprise, while others may be brand new to you. Scroll and pick your next favorite face cleanser:
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Makeup Removing Micelle Solution
A makeup artist favorite
Let’s start with the queen of micellar waters: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Makeup Removing Micelle Solution. More than using it to cleanse the skin, you may also count on it to remove makeup, even for sensitive and intolerant skin. While removing impurities, the formula strengthens the skin and prevents inflammatory processes thanks to a complex of three biomimetic soothing sugars and D.A.F. patent complex.
Sensilis Micellar Water [AR]
A favorite for reactive skin
We’re not surprised to find one of the best micellar water for sensitive skin from the expert brand in sensitive skin Sensilis. In this case, both sensitive and reactive skins are safe with this formula. As it cleanses, this gentle water also calms the skin, reducing redness while strengthening the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid together with licorice extract is key for such an effective product.
La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra Sensitive Skin
A favorite micellar water featuring thermal water
Makeup removal of sensitive eyes, lips, and skin was never so easy. This formula features the famous La Roche-Posay thermal water and glycerin, to clean, soothe, and hydrate the skin, all at the same time. As it removes impurities and makeup residues, it does not dry out the skin and actually contributes to a feeling of comfort and freshness.
ACM Laboratoire Rosakalm Cleansing Micellar Water
A favorite for those with rosacea
Sensitive skin prone to redness, listen up. ACM developed a cleansing solution for those with redness, that cares for the skin while removing even waterproof makeup. Featuring non-ionic surfactants, this formula cleanses, soothers, and revitalizes the skin all at once. In addition, hyaluronic acid and xylitol boost skin hydration, contributing to maintaining the natural moisture barrier while preventing dryness.
Uriage Thermal Micellar Water Sensitive Skin
A favorite for redness-prone skin
Combining non-ionic surfactants with Uriage thermal water, this makeup removal solution captures makeup and impurities without disrupting your sensitive skin. More than keeping your redness under control, the formula resorts to hydrating ingredients that moisturize the skin and prevent dryness and dehydration. You can count on the formula to hydrate, cleanse, and soothe the skin!
ISDIN Micellar Solution 4-In-1 Sensitive Skin
A favorite multi-tasker
With no soap, alcohol, or perfume involved, this formula manages to remove makeup, cleanse, hydrate, and tone the skin. Not even waterproof and long-wearing makeup is safe with this one! Featuring plantapon and betaine, this formula is the perfect fit for sensitive skin: cleans while soothing and strengthening sensitive skin.
bioten Skin Moisture Micellar Water for Dry/Sensitive Skin
A favorite from the drugstore
bioten presents an affordable cleansing solution without compromising on quality. Vegan and with 96% of ingredients of natural origin, this facial cleanser for the face, eyes, and lips combines natural and sustainable saffron with prebiotics and hydronutrients to promote hydration and balance the skin flora. This is a great option for micellar water for sensitive skin, as it gently cleanses without stripping the skin or causing irritation.
Micellar water can be used alone or as part of a double cleansing routine. Learn all about it and see how versatile your micellar water for sensitive skin can be.
Professional Makeup Artist & Beauty Writer