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Meet your micellar water match

11 November 2019 | Leigh van den Berg

The aisle that was once dominated by foaming soapy cleansers is now having to make room for everyone’s favourite all-in-one: We help you find your perfect micellar water.

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In South Africa, micellar way is considered a relatively new way to cleanse, but it’s been used in Europe for decades. It was originally developed by a French chemist as a solution to the notoriously “hard” water in France. But, what exactly is it and how does it manage to feel like water, yet whip off dirt and make-up so effectively? Skincare therapist and owner of Sunrise Beauty Studio in Cape Town, Melissa Volker, is here to answer our questions. 

How does micellar water work?

“A micelle is a sphere made up of a drop of oil surrounded by little blobs of cleanser. The blobs are bi-polar in that their head attracts water while their tale repels it, creating a push-pull tension that allows it to be suspended in water,” she explains. When you put it on cotton wool, the “head” attracts the oil, dirt and make-up on your skin as you swipe. 

Micellar water for oily or acne-prone skin

According to Volker, it’s a myth that oily or acne-prone skin should only ever use oil-free products so yes, micellar water can be right up your alley. In fact, harsh cleansers can cause dehydration, something that sparks even more oil production to compensate. Still, it’s a good idea to choose micellar water specially formulated for oily or acne-prone skin, as most will contain antibacterial ingredients to help keep your pores clean and clear. 

Micellar water for normal or combination skin

As the lucky owner of such easy-going skin, you’ll generally have many more options at your disposal when it comes to your pick of micellar waters. Overwhelmed by the choices? You can’t go wrong with a gentle, moisturising micellar water – no matter your skin type.

Micellar water for dry skin

By nature, micellar water is great option for dry skin, but you’ll always need extra hydration wherever you can get it - so look out for those containing additional moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid and extra oils. “Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that’s able to attract and hold water within your skin,” says Volker. 

Micellar water for sensitive skin 

If you’re the sensitive type, know that any product, especially if it’s highly fragranced, can trigger a reaction. Thus, Volker suggests you stick to brands specially formulated for sensitive skin. “Technically, micellar water is made to be a no-rinse product as most of it sticks to your cotton pad and not your skin, but if you’re in doubt, do a secondary cleanse just to be safe.”

 

IMAGE CREDIT: shutterstock.com

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