Micellar water works just as well as your favourite heavy-duty cleanser but doesn’t need to be rinsed off. Which is why they’ve become a stalwart backstage staple. The science is (relatively) simple: micellar water takes its name from micelles - tiny balls of cleansing molecules that are suspended in the water. When applied to your skin on a cotton pad, these micelles attract the oil and dirt on your face without the use of harsh chemicals. And because the cleansing agents in micellar waters are so gentle, they're ideal for sensitive skins.
They're particularly good for eye make-up - the best micellars will make light work of stubborn mascara, without leaving you with red, sore peepers. They're also ideal for quick touch ups: just dip in a cotton bud to straighten out wonky eyeliner flicks or uneven lipliner.
Sensitive-skinned ladies are sure to be a fan - as are lazy girls. Because the added bonus of micellar waters is that you don't even have to budge from the sofa to cleanse your face.
SHOP: The Best Micellar Water
Best Micellar Water 2023
1 of 11Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, £11
The OG micellar water is loved for by every beauty editor and make-up artist alike for its abilities to remove every last trace of makeup - waterproof mascara included.
2 of 11La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water , £12.50
Formulated with oily skin in mind, this water is part of the best-selling Effaclar range. Helping to balance sebum production while still removing make-up effectively is why it's a cult classic.
3 of 11Decleor Aroma Cleanse Micellar Water, £35
This water has a devoted fan base who love its soothing properties. With plenty of natural oils to balance the skin, this water will leave your skin perfectly cleansed, not stripped of moisture.
4 of 11Dior Hydra Life Micellar Water No Rinse Cleanser, £29
A luxe option for those of you who like the finer things. With soothing echinacea flower and the ability to dissolve stubborn mascara, this water deserves pride of place on your dressing table.
5 of 11L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Micellar Water, £5.99
Specifically formulated for mature and sensitive skins, L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Micellar Water is packed with pro-vitamin B5 which restores and hydrates skin.
6 of 11Simple Micellar Water, £4.94
Simple's offering doesn't leave skin feeling tight or irritated - just soothed and totally makeup-free. Happy, cleansed skin for under £5!
7 of 11Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water, £15
A great option for sensitive skins, this mild micellar water dissolves all makeup and grime without irritating skin.
8 of 11Avene Micellar Lotion, £12.50
This light cleansing lotion feels so refreshing on application. Formulated with Avene's signature thermal spring water, it will soothe and soften skin, too.
9 of 11Yes To Coconut Ultra Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water, £6.99
95% natural, this hydrating coconut micellar water is designed to gently draw out impurities whilst boosting radiance.
10 of 11Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
This one is so good, it's a Love Island resident. The dressing room staple rests comfortably on the vanity for good reason. Gentle yet effective, Garnier's micellar water has been formulated to take off the day with ease.
11 of 11CeraVe Micellar Cleansing Water
Expect the brand's skin soothing ceramide and niacinimide-packed formula to work wonders at removing make-up, too.
READ MORE: 15 Of The Best Cleansers For Dry And Sensitive Skin