BEAUTY // French pharmacy beauty is a thing, and a pretty good thing at that especially when you consider micellar water. Loved by models, found tucked into the kits of make up artists and instagrammed by beauty bloggers worldwide, this gentle cleansing, no rinse and super easy to use product is not just a trend…. it is a revolution that has been about for over a century and it is here to stay.
What is Micellar Water?
Touted by many as a miracle product, this isn’t any old water…. even though it is French and they make even the dullest thing seem a bit more fancy! micellar water contains gentle microscopic oil molecules called micelles, which are suspended in soft water and attract dirt, make-up and oil. Simply put this gentle cleansing water draws out impurities without drying out or aggravating the skin.
Originally formulated as no rinse cleanser alternative, micellar water was designed to cleanse without the need to be washed off with the notoriously hard water of Paris. Probably one of the reasons that micellar water is a backstage staple at Fashion Week.
Unlike traditional make up cleansers, micellar water does not leave any oil or harsh chemicals behind! The lazy person in me celebrates that it can be used as a facial wash, makeup remover, toner and depending on your skin type, also moisturiser. Hands up if you love an effective and fabulous all in one.
What, I hear you cry…. there must be a catch…. surely this is too easy and you must break out in some spot hell within a week! It seems not! My skin, like many others has benefited from including this product into my skincare rotation. Don’t get me wrong this will never replace a good old proper cleanse, but dear reader this is fairly brilliant when you are short on time or not near any running water!
Which Micellar Water Should I Try?
I have tried these two so far.
Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micelle Solution is probably the best known and a great place to start. This brand has a legion of fans who religiously turn to this micellar water to cleanse their face without stripping away any moisture! This product removes even the most stubborn of mascaras and I particularly like to use it as my second step during a double cleanse. It is equally brilliant to use after a clay mask. paraben, fragrance and alcohol free. Available in Boots and Feel Unique in the UK to name a few.
Sukin Micellar Cleansing Water is gently infused with cucumber and chamomile …. particularly blissful to use at the end of the day. Suitable for all skin types it has been formulated with skin soothing aloe vera and leaves my complexion feeling refreshed and at ease. I have long been a fan of this ethical and carbon neutral green beauty brand …. their skin softening micellar water has not lost this faith. Available in Planet Organic, Boots, Look Fantastic and Naturismo in the UK, please check website for more stockists.
I would love to hear your thoughts on micellar water. Until next time.
FF