I'm going to be really honest here: I didn't think micellar water had a place in my skincare regime. In my mind, it was a fancy word for makeup remover, and I was happy with my oil cleanser, thank you very much. Then, after hearing everyone, their mum and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley say how great it was, I decided to finally give Bioderma Sensibio H2O a go, and honestly, it really is great. It removed all my makeup—black eyeliner, mascara, tinted moisturiser, concealer, eyebrow pencil, bronzer and blush. (Yes, I do wear makeup for Zooms.) But it's not just how well it removed all the dirt on my face; it's also how it left my skin afterward. It didn't feel tight or dry. In fact, it felt quite smooth. I still cleansed with my usual Elemis face wash, but I liked that the micellar water had been so effective. I didn't see any leftover eyeliner on the towel when I dried my face. What I'm saying is I'm a micellar water convert, so I decided to give you a list of my favourites. Keep scrolling for more.
1. Nivea MicellAir Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin
I really love Nivea's Double Effect Eye-Makeup Remover so knew I'd probably like this, too. And I was correct. It gets rid of makeup quickly, and it's inexpensive.
2. Shiseido Refreshing Cleansing Water
Okay, this one is a bit pricey, but I've never met a Shiseido product I dislike. I think what I like most about this is that it feels fresh and not heavy whatsoever on the skin. It's not as great at removing makeup as some others, but it makes my skin feel super smooth.
3. La. Roche-Posay Micellar Water
Another one of those all-rounders, it's easy on the skin and removes makeup fully.
4. Garnier Micellar Water Facial Cleanser and Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin
For just a fiver, this one is an incredible option. It removes makeup and gently cleanses skin. It's also got an average score of 4.7 out of five stars on Look Fantastic.
5. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Makeup Removing Solution or Sensitive Skin
The micellar water that changed my mind. This product is loved by so many of my friends as well as A-list celebrities. It's under £20 so doesn't seem extortionate, but ultimately, it just does the job really well. It gets rid of makeup, cleanses the skin and leaves you with a fresh complexion.
6. Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Waterr
A great one for sensitive skin, Caudalie's formula is good for helping to remove makeup gently. It's worth noting, though, that some of the reviews say that it doesn't remove stubborn makeup as well and is best avoided if you have oily skin.
7. Avène Micellar Lotion
French beauty brands really have it nailed when it comes to micellar waters. I've long been a fan of Avène's skincare, and this micellar water is another to add to the long list of products I love. The thermal water used in all of the brand's products helps to leave a subtle glow after use.
8. Lancôme Eau Micellaire Confort Micellar Water
I too am a little cynical when it comes to spending a lot on skincare, especially if it seems like all you're getting is a jumped-up makeup remover. But let me tell you that's not the case here. Lancôme's formula really feels like it's cleansing the skin and removes all makeup entirely.
9. Ren Rosa Centifolia 3-in-1 Cleansing Water
If you wear heavy makeup, this one isn't for you. However, if you want a gentle cleansing water, you can't go wrong.
10. Kiehl's Herbal-Infused Micellar Cleansing Water
I have sworn by Kiehl's Midnight Recovery for years, so I also wanted to try out the micellar water, as the brand has performed so consistently for me. This works great, and I do like the herby scent (worth noting if you don't love strong-smelling products).
11. Nuxe 3-in-1 Soothing Micellar Water
Suitable for vegans, this micellar water from French brand Nuxe is an easy way to remove makeup from the day.
12. Embryolisse Laboratories Micellar Lotion 3-in-1
Yep, it's another French-pharmacy favourite. This micellar water includes camomile to help calm and soothe the skin while removing dirt and makeup effectively.
Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2020 fashion trends to know.
