The Micellar Solutions / Waters Stash

Two or so years ago, I had never heard of Micellar Solutions or Waters, but now they are simply everywhere with new ones coming onto the market at rapid speed.  Currently I have four in my beauty stash that I like to rotate.

What are Micellar Solutions / Waters?

Micellar Solutions / Waters are basically tiny 'micelle' molecules that are suspended in a solution such as water.  Micelles act like a gentle soap-free surfactant thanks to their 'fatty acid esters' composition, so they help to break down sebum and makeup on the face.  Also because they are already in a water-like solution, extra ingredients can be easily added for skincare benefits, hence why you see many which are multi-purpose and often labeled as '3 in 1' products.   

How do you use Micellar Solutions / Waters? 

I mainly use them as a superficial first cleanse to remove makeup in the evening with cotton wool pads.  I find that they're great for getting rid of the bulk of my makeup very quickly, so they're ideal to use if you're coming in from a late night or have just had a particularly busy or stressful day and want to get on with other things.  Personally, I don't use them to replace a cleanser because I don't feel like that they remove everything, so I view them more of a first step makeup remover in my skincare routine.  I sometimes also use them after I've used a thick cleansing balm to help remove any residue and instead of a toner.  

 Here are the ones that I currently use:-

REN Rosa Centifolia 3 in 1 Cleansing Water* (200ml, £13, link)

One of my favourites is this one from REN which has a lovely light rose scent to it.  It's refreshing and soothing to use, but also helps to tighten up pores a little thanks to the natural tannins in the formula.  Out of all of the multi-purpose micellar waters I've tried so far, REN's offering in my opinion, actually lives up to its claims and can be used as a general makeup remover, first step cleanser and toner.

L'Oreal Skin Perfection 3 in 1 Purifying Micellar Solution (200ml, £4.99, link)

The newest addition to my micellar stash comes from L'Oreal which I picked up recently for half-price in Superdrug.  I've only used this twice so far, but I thought it did an excellent job of removing most of my makeup and it didn't make my skin feel dry or tight.  A great budget option to try.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution (250ml, £9.99, link)

The micellar solution that started the whole craze off!  I do love this a lot; it's very gentle (feels like water) so perfect for sensitive skin, removes makeup, doesn't irritate my eyes and feels wonderfully refreshing on the skin.  Is it the best?  I'd say definitely yes for sensitive skin types!

Pulpe De Vie Shake Me Baby 4 in 1 Micellar Water* (125ml, £13, link)

Pulpe De Vie's Shake Me Baby has a 99.4% natural formula and features 29.8% organic ingredients which include a fruit and flower cocktail of Tomato water, Grapefruit extract, Cornflower Extract, Melissa Water and fairtrade Sunflower Oil.  The oil and the vegetable glycerins sit on top of the water, so you simply shake it before using to mix it all up.  This is fantastic for removing makeup, daily dirt and grime, and excess sebum, and feels very hydrating and nourishing as a first step cleanser.

What are your favourite Micellar Solutions / Waters?

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