The 10 Best Micellar Waters of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
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The Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 is the best of the best, leaving your complexion clean, hydrated, and totally refreshed
People / Jessica Juliao
Washing your face may seem like the simplest, most no-brainer part of your skincare routine. Grab your usual cleanser, suds up, rinse, pat dry. But what if we told you that there was a whole product category out there that could totally change how you cleanse? We’re talking about micellar water. It’s made of up of, well, water, along with micelles — tiny surfactant (a.k.a. cleansing) spheres that act like magnets and bind to makeup, dirt, oil, and debris on the skin, explains Dr. Fatima Fahs, a board-certified dermatologist in Michigan and founder of Dermy Doc Box.
A micellar water is applied to your complexion with a cotton pad; as you wipe it off, you take those micelles (and all of that extra gunk) off of your skin, no rinsing required. Not only are they very easy to use, micellar waters are also much gentler on your skin than traditional soap-based cleansers, notes Dr. Kseniya Kobets, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York City. And that makes them an especially good choice for anyone with drier, more sensitive skin, although anyone can use them.
Even though they’ve only been around for a few years, there’s no shortage of micellar waters on the market. So to determine the best of the best, we put over 30 through the ringer. We used them to both cleanse the skin and remove makeup (more on that point in a moment), assessing how effective they were and how they left their skin looking and feeling.
Keep scrolling to discover the results for the best micellar waters that PEOPLE tested.
Best Overall: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & Makeup Remover
Pros
One of the most affordable options we tested
Formula is free of potentially-irritating fragrance and alcohol
Incredibly effective at removing makeup
A little goes a long way (we've only used half the bottle in the three months of testing)
Cons
No drawbacks per our testing — we loved everything about this micellar water
Here’s proof positive that you don’t have to shell out the big bucks for an amazing micellar water. This drugstore buy was our overall top performer. Its lightweight consistency absorbs beautifully into skin, effectively removing all kinds of unwanted residue and makeup, too. Plus, given that it’s free of oil, alcohol, and fragrance, it’s a top choice for all skin types (even the sensitive set), and gentle enough to use around lips and eyes as well. It’s no surprise that it nabbed a perfect five out of five in every testing category, earning rave reviews for how it left skin looking and feeling — which was clean, hydrated, and refreshed.
How it's held up: We still use this micellar water every night and continue to love it, especially on days we wear heavier makeup — since it wipes up the residual makeup that face cleansers leave behind. After using every single night for three months, we still have half of the bottle of product left, which only adds to its already great value.
Price at time of publish: $10.49
Sizes: 3.4 oz., 13.5 oz., 23.7 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Glycerin
Related: These Are the 15 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Skin of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Budget: Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water
Pros
Extremely affordable pick that’s available at the drugstore
Feels super lightweight on the skin and doesn't leave behind an oily residue
Made from water that's been triple purified
Cons
We wish it did a better job at hydrating the skin (despite addition of glycerin and niacinamide), so this may not be the choice for those with naturally dry skin
Another very wallet-friendly winner, we found this to be refreshing, lightweight, and effective at cleansing and removing excess oil — what more could you want from a micellar water? Most micellar waters use purified water, rather than hard water full of minerals found in many traditional cleansers, notes Dr. Kobets, but this ups the ante even further, using H20 that’s triple purified. It’s free of dyes, fragrances, and alcohol, but does contain glycerin and niacinamide. Both ingredients help hydrate the skin; the latter is also great for soothing redness and even helping to even out skin tone, giving you even more bang for your buck.
How it's held up: After three months, we still use this micellar water to help further cleanse the skin on days we wear makeup. Although it doesn't completely remove everything (we have to double cleanse with a face wash), it does its job, especially considering the low cost. We love how lightweight it feels on the skin — some micellar waters can leave behind a heavy, oily residue, but that's not true with this one. While it does contain ingredients that are meant to hydrate and even skin tone, we felt like our skin was still rather dry after using, so it's important to apply moisturizer after the using this micellar water, especially if you already have dry skin.
Price at time of publish: $7
Sizes: 6.8 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide
Best Lightweight: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Pros
Feels lightweight on the skin
A little goes a long way — we have barely put a dent in the bottle after 3 months
Leaves no noticeable residue behind
Cons
Although it yielded a measurable increase in skin’s moisture levels, it didn't increase as much as some others we tested
There’s good reason why this has been a staple in professional makeup artists’ kits for years. Lightweight and refreshing, it’s the perfect prep step for creating a clean slate pre-makeup application, all while leaving skin more moisturized — although it's not as hydrating as other options we tested. It’s great for removing makeup too, particularly around the eyes, given that the gentle formula won’t cause stinging or burning, something we found during our testing. FYI, while we tested the ‘sensitive’ version, it also comes in options for dry and combo-to-oily skin types.
How it's held up: This micellar water is still beloved by us after using at least once a day for the last three months. It continues to succeed when it comes to removing makeup, and we appreciate how lightweight it feels on the skin — leaving no noticeable residue behind whatsoever. Sometimes we use it in the middle of the day when we feel like we need a quick skin refresh.
Price at time of publish: $19
Sizes: 3.38 oz., 8.33 oz., 16.7 oz.
Best Drugstore: Avene Eau Thermal Micellar Lotion Cleansing Water Make-up Remover
Pros
Small opening in the top makes it easy to dispense onto cotton pad
Effectively removed unwanted dirt and grime
Leaves skin feeling softer and more hydrated compared to others we tested
Cons
Formula includes fragrance, which may be irritating to some skin types
There are plenty of great micellar waters to be found at the drugstore, but this pick is a true standout. We found it to be aptly-named; while it definitely has a water-like consistency and doesn’t necessarily feel like a lotion, it hydrated beautifully, working especially well for combination skin. It does bear mentioning that it contains fragrance, which may be a no-go for those with more sensitive or easily-irritated skin, although the scent is soothing, pleasant, and easy to get used to. Most importantly, the formula effectively removes all traces of unwanted dirt and grime with just a few quick swipes of a cotton pad.
How it's held up: We found that this Avene micellar water still does a great job at removing makeup, but we appreciate even more how refreshing it leaves the skin, leaving the skin hydrated as it cleanses. Compared to other micellar waters we tested, we love that this leaves the skin feeling velvety soft and hydrated; we don't even need to apply moisturizer right away after using.
Price at time of publish: $15
Sizes: 3.3 oz, 6.76 oz.
Best for Dry Skin: Medik8 Eyes & Lips Micellar Cleanser
Pros
Very hydrating option that's packed with panthenol and hyaluronic acid
Extremely effective at dissolving makeup, even waterproof formulas
While hydrating, it doesn't leave a heavy or greasy residue behind
Cons
Needs to be shaken every time before use
We recommend a quick cleanse after using if you have acne-prone skin
As a general rule of thumb, micellar waters are a good option for dry skin. (Credit the fact that they don’t contain drying or stripping surfactants.) But we deemed this one to be especially choice for those with a parched complexion, with a milky texture that left skin both feeling more hydrated and with a measurable difference in moisture levels, thanks to the addition of panthenol and hyaluronic acid. Still, it doesn’t leave behind any kind of residue — it absorbed like a dream and effectively wiped away even super stubborn makeup — again, without drying out your complexion. That's to say, if you have acne-prone skin it may be worth to do a quick rinse or cleanse after using as we think it may cause pimples if you don't. In addition, because of the formula, it needs to be shaken each time before use, which isn't a huge inconvenience but still worth noting.
How it's held up: After testing for three months, we can confidently say this is still a great option for those with dry skin, even during the winter. While hydrating, the formula is not at all greasy and doesn't leave an oily residue behind, which we appreciate (although we still recommend another rinse or cleanse if you have acne-prone skin). It's also still super effective at removing makeup, including full-faced makeup looks.
Price at time of publish: $20
Sizes: 3.3 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Panthenol, hyaluronic acid, chamomile
Best for Sensitive Skin: Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water
Pros
Formula is ophthalmologist-, dermatologist-, and allergy-tested
Effectively cleanses without stripping the skin of moisture
Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated
Cons
Does contain fragrance, which may be irritating to some
Dispenser isn't the best option for the thinner consistency; we have found it shoots product out quickly and have lost a good amount of product because of it
Generally speaking, yes, it is fair to say that micellar waters are a good option for those with sensitive skin — but not all micellar waters are created equal. If you’re part of the sensitive crowd, it’s imperative to seek out options that are alcohol-free and have a minimal ingredient list (the fewer the ingredients, the less likelihood of something making your skin freak out). Enter this winner, which checks all of those boxes, and then some. There are no alcohol or parabens in the mix, and while there is fragrance, the formula is both ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested, as well as allergy-tested. It doesn’t hurt that it increased moisture levels in the skin, and did a top notch job of taking off even a full face of makeup.
How it's held up: Our team still agrees that this micellar water is a beneficial part of our routine, especially for anyone with sensitive skin; it continues to be effective at removing makeup without stripping the skin and isn't at all irritating. Our one qualm? We wish the dispensing part better distributed the product. The micellar water squirts out super fast, allowing us to lose a good amount of product in the process. You really need to hold the dispenser tight around the cotton pad for best results.
Price at time of publish: $15
Sizes: 3.38 oz., 6.76 oz., 13.52 oz.
Related: The 13 Best Face Masks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Fragrance-Free: Typology 7-Ingredient Micellar Water
Pros
Fragrance-free with a minimal ingredient list makes it a good option for those with sensitive skin
Lightweight yet moisturizing formula
Cons
Often out of stock, so nab it if you see it available
Fragrance is one of the most common potential skin irritants out there, making this another top choice for those with sensitivities (and even more so given that it’s dermatologically tested). That being said, it really is a universal crowd-pleaser that anyone and everyone can use. We found that it added a noticeable hydration and glow to the skin (without looking or feeling oily), all while thoroughly removing dirt, makeup, and other impurities. Not to mention that the chic and minimalistic packaging will look extra chic on your bathroom cabinet.
How it's held up: After three months of testing, we really don't have any complaints — it continues to deliver in terms of hydration and efficacy. We have been using it at least four times a week and are still impressed how clean it leaves our skin feeling and how lightweight it feels once applied.
Price at time of publish: $18.50
Sizes: 6.76 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Glycerin
Best Investment: Origins Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Micellar Cleanser
Pros
Contains a variety of mushroom extracts that soothe and calm skin
Antioxidant-rich sea buckthorn extract reduces inflammation, infections, and allergies, and works to prevent aging process
Cons
Still very expensive for a micellar water despite additional benefits
May not be the best choice for those with oily skin, because of the added sea buckthorn oil
There’s a major ‘shroom boom’ happening in skincare at the moment, and this micellar water does indeed capitalize on all those benefits of mushrooms. It’s part of the reason why it earned this superlative, well-worth every penny. Along with doing its intended duty of cleansing the skin (which we found it to do quite well, we might add), it also contains a variety of mushroom extracts that further help to calm and soothe. And that’s alongside a lengthy list of other antioxidant-rich ingredients, putting this almost in the category of a serum when it comes to offering benefits besides just cleansing. The end result? A significant difference in the texture and feel of our skin.
How it's held up: This micellar water from Origins has made our skin feel balanced and smooth over the testing period. While it cleanses by itself well, we have found it works best after using your typical face cleanser, as this micellar water does a good job at wiping off any excess dirt and makeup and priming the skin for additional skincare. We will even use it in the middle of the day if we feel like our skin needs a bit of a refresh. What we love about this micellar water is that it leaves skin feeling dewy and moisturized, which is also great for anyone who has dry skin.
Price at time of publish: $37
Sizes: 6.7 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Mushroom extracts, sea buckthorn oil
Related: The 14 Best Face Moisturizers for Oily Skin, Tested and Reviewed
Best with Ceramides: Drunk Elephant Milki E-Rase Micellar Water
Pros
Excellent choice for those with dry skin due to the ceramides
Gentle yet effective at removing dirt and makeup
Left skin feeling plump and hydrated even hours after use
Cons
Thicker consistency leaves a slightly sticky residue that may need rinsing off after using
Ceramides (a.k.a. fatty acids that are essential for keeping your skin barrier strong and healthy) are often found in moisturizers and serums, making their addition in this micellar water all the more noteworthy. Plus, there’s also wild melon seed oil in the formula, adding more moisture via omega fatty acids alongside a dose of protective antioxidants, which are always a good thing. We found that it left skin feeling plump and hydrated for hours after use, and excelled at removing not only dirt, but makeup, too. And even though it does have a bit of a thicker consistency than some other micellar waters, there wasn't much residue left behind.
How it's held up:
After three months of testing, we still love the quality of this product and the milky consistency that's gentle and hydrating on the skin. The only thing we'd change? The price tag. Although this is a great product, we don't know if we would buy it again on our own terms, considering there are other great micellar waters available for half the cost. If you're a fan of Drunk Elephant, though, and don't mind spending the extra money, it won't leave you disappointed.
Price at time of publish: $28
Sizes: 3.3 oz., 8 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Ceramides, wild melon seed oil
Best Makeup Remover: Neogen Calming Cica Tree Micellar Cleansing Water
Pros
Oil-based texture both effectively dissolves makeup and leaves skin feeling hydrated
Included centella asiatica helps to calm and soothe redness
Cons
Does need to be rinsed off, which adds another step to your routine
To be fair, this technically isn’t a micellar water, but rather a micellar cleansing oil. Quick science lesson: Oils dissolve oil, which is why oil-based cleansers are so good at removing makeup (which, you guessed it, contains a lot of oils). But this ups the ante with the addition of micelles in the mix to even more effectively attach to and break-down makeup, even heavy coverage foundation or waterproof mascara. Just keep in mind that this one needs to be used differently than the other winners on this list. Rather than applying it onto a cotton pad and swiping it on your skin, this works best when massaged directly onto your face, emulsified with a bit of water, then rinsed off.
How it's held up:
We're still using this micellar water after months of testing, although there are some mixed feelings on our team. One tester noted that she loves how this oil leaves her face feeling really clean (despite being acne-prone) and that a little goes a long way, while another tester says she only uses it about once a week now because she feels the extra step in rinsing off the oil isn't worth it (she reaches for her regular foaming cleanser, instead). However, if you're wanting to use this strictly for removing makeup, it still excels in that department.
Price at time of publish: $22
Size: 13.5 oz. | Additional Ingredients: Centella asiatica, tea tree, zinc, azulene
Related: The 14 Best Eye Makeup Removers, Tested and Reviewed
Things to Consider Before Buying Micellar Water
Hydrating Ingredients
As mentioned, micellar waters are generally a good option for those with dry skin — but if you really want to up the ante, check the label for added hydrating ingredients, says Dr. Fahs. Some common ones to look for are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, she adds. Our favorite budget buy, the Simple Kind to Skin Cleansing Micellar Water, contains glycerin and niacinamide, another good option.
Fragrance
If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, it’s a good idea to seek out micellar waters that are fragrance-free, suggests Dr. Kobets. ‘Fragrance’ can be made up of many different ingredients and is one of the most common irritants and allergens, though it is fairly easy to avoid. Given that many micellar waters are geared towards those with sensitivities, there are plenty of great fragrance-free options out there, including our overall favorite, the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1.
Dermatologist- or Ophthalmologist-Tested
Dr. Fahs suggests looking for a dermatologist-tested designation if you have sensitive skin. An ophthalmologist-tested credential is worth seeking out if you plan on using your micellar water to remove eye makeup, particularly if you wear contacts or have sensitive eyes.
People / Jessica Juliao
How We Tested
Our PEOPLE Tested team tried out 32 micellar waters in our NYC lab to figure out which ones are worth your money. To begin, we first measured the moisture levels of our bare skin. Next, we used a micellar water, taking note of how effectively it cleansed our complexion and how it left our skin looking and feeling. We then re-measured the moisture levels, noting if the micellar water actually made the skin more hydrated. Micellar waters that were labeled as makeup removers were also used to remove mascara and foundation, with the team assessing the efficacy. After completing these steps in the lab, we took them home for long-term testing.
After testing was complete, we rated each product on a scale of one to five in the following categories: feel, absorption, effectiveness, hydration, and appearance. The products that achieved the highest average ratings made it to this list of the best micellar waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is micellar water different from face wash?
A face wash traditionally uses detergents such as sulfates to wash away dirt and debris, although this can end up simultaneously stripping skin of its natural oils, explains Dr. Kobets. On the flip side, micellar water relies on micelles to trap dirt and oil particles and suspend them in water and wipe or wash away, while being gentler on skin, she adds. It makes the experience different, too. “Traditional facial cleansers are typically formulated as a lathering liquid or gel that is applied to the skin, massaged in, and then rinsed off. Micellar water doesn’t require rinsing because it’s mostly made up water and doesn’t leave behind any reside on the skin,” explains Chicago-based esthetician Jenny Fix.
Will micellar water remove makeup?
Definitely. “Micellar water is fantastic at removing makeup, especially around the eyes, without the potential irritation that can come from traditional makeup wipes,” Dr. Fahs says. (Makeup wipes are often packed with preservatives that can elicit skin reactions.)
How do you use micellar water?
Pour it onto a cotton pad or round and gently wipe it across your face; unless the directions specify, there’s no need to rinse. You can also use it as the first step in a double cleanse, in lieu of a makeup remover or oil-based cleanser, or mix a few drops in with your regular cleanser. “I like to mix a splash of micellar water in with a creamy cleanser. The combo can help pull even more dirt and impurities off the skin, while adding hydration,” notes Fix.
Can you use micellar water everyday?
“Yes, micellar water is gentle enough for daily use,” says Dr. Fahs. Unlike some traditional toners, micellar water doesn’t contain drying alcohols, so it’s okay to use daily, even if you have sensitive skin, she adds.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Melanie Rud is a freelance beauty writer, editor, and expert living in Chicago. Prior to moving to Chicago, Melanie held beauty editorial positions at Shape, Good Housekeeping, and Health. Today, she is a contributing writer for PEOPLE where she covers all things skincare, interviewing top dermatologists to get to the bottom of the latest trends and products, as well as Byrdie, Real Simple, Brides, and more. Melanie holds a BA in Journalism and English from New York University. For this piece, she evaluated PEOPLE Tested insights and interviewed Dr. Kseniya Kobets, director of cosmetic dermatology at NYC's Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, Dr. Fatima Fahs, a Michigan-based board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermy Doc Box, and Chicago-based esthetician Jenny Fix for their skincare expertise.
PEOPLE Commerce Editor Erika Reals updated this article to include long-term testing insights for each micellar water, including removing a product that our team no longer recommends after three months of use.
What Is People Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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