10 Best Micellar Waters For Oily Skin That Remove Makeup Quickly
Remove makeup residue, dead skin cells, and excess oil without hurting your skin.
Hillary ClarkEsthetician
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provide... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
medha debIntegrated MA
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
monomita chakrabortyMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 4 yearsMonomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global Univers... more
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Cleansing oily skin can be tough. This is because oily skin produces excess sebum, which often traps dirt and debris, resulting in tired and rough skin. That is why you need the right cleansing solution for this skin type. Adding the best micellar water for oily skin in your skin care routine is a great choice to even out skin tone and texture. Even many dermatologists suggest using micellar water for cleansing oily skin. This multipurpose and easy-to-use cleansing formulation contains purified water, surfactants, and glycerin. Compared to regular facial cleansers and makeup removers, micellar water works differently. Hillary Clark, a Medical Esthetician, recommends micellar water saying, “It is a must-have in every pro makeup artist’s kit. Micellar water is ideal for travel as step 1 in a double cleanse routine.” During the cleansing process, the micelles (spherical structures) join the surfactants to help remove dead skin cells, makeup residue, excess oil, dirt, and all other impurities from the skin.
This no-rinse cleanser is usually alcohol-free and offers hydration and fights against skin inflammation to make your skin look smooth, soft, and supple. In addition, micellar water can keep your complexion clear and remove your makeup effectively. However, with tons of options available in the market, you may get confused while selecting one among them. To help you out, we have narrowed down the options and come up with a list. Scroll down to check out the 10 best micellar waters for oily skin.
In This Article
10 Best Micellar Waters For Oily Skin That Remove Makeup Quickly
1. Best Non-Comedogenic:Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water – All-In-1
Are you tired of all those bottles in your bathroom cabinet that take up so much space that you’re very often too lazy to use? Well, there’s good news for you! Welcome Garnier’s SkinActive All-In-1 Micellar Cleansing Water for oily skin that removes makeup without harsh rubbing, cleanses without having to rinse, and refreshes your face without leaving behind a residue. It’s surprisingly powerful yet gentle on the skin, and it attracts and removes dirt, oil, and makeup like a magnet while removing dead skin cells with its micellar technology. Its dermatologist-tested formula contains aqua, glycerin, and other cleansing agents, and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. So, don’t wait— try this skin-balancing product and say hello to a glowing and radiant you.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Can be used as an oil control toner
- No alcohol
- No parabens
- No sulphates
- Non-comedogenic
- No mineral oil
- No greasy residue
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Not derived from animals
Cons
- May not be able to remove waterproof mascara
Trivia
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 45,820 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
2. Best Natural Formula:Bioderma Sébium H₂O Purifying Cleansing Micellar Water
This is considered one of the best micellar waters for oily skin as it gently cleanses and removes makeup without drying out the skin. This dermatologist-recommended maintains the pH balance of your skin and helps to purify— thanks to ingredients such as zinc, copper, and ginkgo biloba, which contribute to mattifying your skin by removing excess oil. So, you no longer have to worry about greasy skin or pimples, acne, or breakouts as this cleanser has a proven efficacy with 95% volunteers having found their skin purified. We recommend you use a cotton pad with Sébium H₂O to cleanse and remove makeup from your face and use it in the morning and evening, every day of the week to reveal a natural glow that’s ready to take over the world! You can also use it for refreshing your skin throughout the day.
Pros
- Dermatologically-tested
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for combination and oily skin
- Contains natural ingredients
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
TriviaWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 7,856 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
3. Best Alcohol-Free Formula:ISDIN Micellar Solution 4 In 1
The 4-in-1 action of this micellar water for oily, sensitive skin removes makeup (even waterproof makeup), cleanses, tones, and hydrates your skin. It’s a combination of aqua, glycerin, and other cleansing ingredients which make it suitable for even sensitive skin. It has an advanced formula with an innovative texture to ensure a superlative sensory experience for your skin. Everyone deserves healthy skin and this dermatologist-recommended brand believes that your skin is their passion: they work closely with healthcare professionals to provide you with expert solutions that embody this passion, which allows you to enjoy soft and supple skin.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Soap-free
- No fragrance
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist recommended
- Ophthalmologist approved
- pH balanced
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some may find the texture sticky.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,915 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
| Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water - All-In-1 Best Non-Comedogenic | Bioderma Sébium H₂O Purifying Cleansing Micellar Water Best Natural Formula | ISDIN Micellar Solution 4 In 1 Best Alcohol-Free Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Oily | Sensitive |
| Dimensions | 2.73 x 2.17 x 2.73 inches | 6.9 x 2.9 x 2.9 inches | 3.94 x 4.33 x 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 15.58 Ounces | 1 Pounds | 14.11 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 45,820 | 7,856 | 1,915 |
| Price | $8.65 | $16.99 | $35 |
4. Best Oil-Free Formula:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water ULTRA
This dermatologist-tested micellar water for oily, sensitive skin can do wonders for your skin. It captures residual makeup, oil, and impurities in its micelles, leaving the skin perfectly cleansed, hydrated, and refreshed without harsh rubbing. It also contains poloxamer, a mild cleanser so gentle that it is considered safe for the eyes and is used in contact lens solutions. This La Roche-Posay has thermal spring water which is rich in antioxidants and soothes irritated skin, while the glycerin in it hydrates the skin. Purifying zinc removes excess oil and offers your skin a refreshing sensation. The icing on the cake is that it also removes minute pollution particles. Just pour a few drops of it into a cotton pad and gently wipe your face, eyes, and lips. Requiring no-rinse, you’ll be ready to step into the world with clean and radiant skin with this micellar water. Its clinically-tested formula is a must for those with sensitive eyes and who wear contact lenses.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Allergy-tested
- Soap-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Ophthalmologist-approved
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Its texture may not suit all.
Trivia5. Best For Pore Cleansing:The SAEM Healing Tea Garden Cleansing Water
Get visibly smooth and refreshed skin with The SAEM Healing Tea Garden Cleansing Water. The tea tree infused micellar water easily removes the most stubborn makeup. It also removes dirt and impurities from the skin without taking away its natural moisture. This quality product is suitable for sensitive skin as it has a gentle formula and is made with naturally derived ingredients like Australian tea tree water, alchemilla vulgaris, and mallow flower extracts. It helps remove excess sebum and soothes the facial skin. It also targets aging signs as a bonus and provides lasting hydration.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
6. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:TO DO LIST Cleansing Water
The TO DO LIST Cleansing Water is an effective one-step product for removing makeup, excess sebum, and leftover debris. It is enriched with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory ingredients, and powerful herbs. Calendula stimulates collagen production, lemongrass tightens pores, and mugwort soothes irritated skin. This dermatologist-tested micellar water is suitable for all skin types and ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Just take the product on a cotton pad and apply it to your face in a sweeping motion.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Allergy-tested
- Sensitive skin-tested
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Refreshing fragrance
Cons
- None
7. Best Sebum Control:SKINTIFIQUE Cleanser P
This high-quality micellar water cleanses the skin, removes makeup, traces of pollution, and metal irritants like nickel, chromium, and cobalt from the surface of the skin, leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Made from 91.2% natural ingredients, it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin type. This facial cleanser is formulated with micelles that capture even the minutest impurities without requiring vigorous rubbing. It has been proven to be safe for even those with dry, extra dry, eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis-prone skin. If you’re on the lookout for mild and effective micellar water that offers gentle pore cleansing, this is one of the best products you can lay your hands on for clear skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- No fragrance
- No EDTA
- No silicon
- No mineral oil
Cons
- May take a little more effort to remove heavy makeup
8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Micellar Cleansing Water
Image: Neutrogena This dermatologist-tested 3-in-1 gentle micellar cleansing water for oily skin removes waterproof makeup and effectively cleanses and purifies the skin by targeting even the minutest impurities for soft, healthy-looking skin. This one-step gentle facial cleanser is clinically proven and designed to revitalize the skin as it removes trapped dirt and excess oil. It is formulated with triple micellar technology, which is a special blend of 3 gentle cleansers that target all toxins and help preserve your skin’s moisture. It penetrates the pores to decongest them while preserving the skin’s moisture. The result? A healthy complexion and skin that’s extremely soft.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist recommended
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Might sting the eyes
9. Best Moisture Balance:L’Oréal Micellar Cleansing Water
This dermatologist-tested all-in-1 cleanser removes makeup, gets rid of dirt and oil, and mattifies the skin. Very often the case with oily skin, over cleaning and exfoliating to remove excess sebum can strip the skin of its essential oils, but this micellar water works very gently, leaving the skin squeaky clean. The L’Oreal Micellar Cleansing Water is powered by micelle molecules that magnetically capture and remove pollutants, lifting away the dirt to make your face feel fresh. As a plus, you don’t have to wash or rinse your face when you use this micellar water. Also, this product was well-received by reviewers on Amazon for its incredible performance. Do try out this gentle, deep cleansing product because after all, why should models have all the glamor?
Pros
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-approved
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Contains EDTA
10. Best Non-Drying Formula:Vichy Laboratoires Mineral Micellar Water
This mineral-infused micellar water contains salicylic acid which has a mild exfoliating effect resulting in softer and smoother skin, as well as lactic acid which is very efficient in removing dead cells from the surface of the skin. The acids are gentle and ideal for skin that is dull, breaks out, or needs extra help turning over to absorb serums and creams. It also cleanses the face, removes makeup, and can clean your skin without drying it out. This dermatologist-tested micellar water is a quick and effective no-rinse cleanser created especially for those with a combination to oily skin. It is made with mineral-rich volcanic water from the French volcanoes and is rich in 15 minerals to help hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier against skin-aging factors like air pollution and stress. Today, Vichy is considered to be the #1 anti-aging brand in European pharmacies, which makes it worth a try.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Soap-free
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-sticky and non-drying
- Sensitive skin-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-approved
Cons
- May not be suitable for removing waterproof mascara
Now that we have looked at the 10 best micellar waters for oily skin, here are a few things you need to keep in mind when buying micellar water so that you make the right choice for yourself.
How Do I Choose Micellar Water?
- Skin type
Always pick all skincare products according to your skin type. Not all micellar waters are made the same as some are gentle and hydrating, some are stronger, made for waterproof makeup and mascaras, and some have stronger ingredients than others. Those with dry and sensitive skin should look for gentle and hydrating micellar water without harsh ingredients. For dry skin and sensitive skin, it is best to choose one with minimal ingredients to minimize risks of irritation and damage.
For oily skin, on the contrary, certain gentle micellar waters can feel like they are not cleansing enough. In this case, do make it a point to check the label and ensure that it is formulated for oily skin type.
- Removal power
When you are choosing your micellar water, make sure that it removes the makeup that you wear daily, especially your eye and lip makeup. Perhaps there is a micellar water that your skin loves but it doesn’t do the job of removing the eyeliner or liquid lipsticks you use. Therefore, determine the type of makeup you use and check if the micellar water helps remove it.
- Fragrance
This is more of a concern for sensitive or inflamed skin, especially if fragrance is listed among the top ingredients. The damage it causes to your skin may not be noticeable, but it can still be silently occurring every day, causing both minor and major problems for your skin in the long term.
- Alcohol
A lot of micellar waters these days do not contain alcohol, however, there are some that do contain alcohol denat. Make sure you check that out first. Alcohol can strip the moisture off your skin and leave your skin tight and taut not in the most pleasant way.
- Essential oils
Everyone reacts differently to essential oils like argan oil, olive oil, lavender oil, and so on. Please check if you are sensitive to them. Also, they could clog your pores, so it’s best to avoid micellar water with essential oils.
- Cost
A micellar water is one of the skin care products that you will be using several times everyday. So it’s a good idea not to go overboard as far as the price of the product goes.
- Does it sting your eyes?
Yes, some micellar waters may sting your eyes and it’s always a good idea to avoid them, especially if you use eye makeup.
Infographic: Dos And Don’ts Of Using Micellar Water On Oily Skin
Micellar water can be a perfect addition to your oily skin care routine. It easily removes makeup without irritating the skin or leaving a greasy residue. However, there are a few pointers that you need to follow while using micellar water to reap its best benefits. Check out the following infographic to know more!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Oily skin produces excess sebum and traps dirt and bacteria by clogging the pores. Cleansing oily skin can be difficult with ordinary cleansers. To get effective results, try micellar water for oily skin to cleanse it thoroughly while maintaining the pH balance of your skin. Micellar water benefits the skin immensely. It contains active ingredients that cleanse the pores and remove makeup, excess oil, and debris without being tough on the skin or requiring harsh rubbing. The Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water lifts away dirt effectively without the need of rigorous rubbing, while the Bioderma Sébium H₂O Purifying Cleansing Micellar Water is ideal to use around the eye area as it does not sting. The ISDIN Micellar Solution 4 In 1 does not require additional cleanse as it also tones and hydrates the skin. These products are hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, and paraben-free. The products on our skin are specially formulated for oily skin, and some are even suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin. They do not leave any residue on your skin and make your skin clean and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is micellar water good for oily skin and acne?
Micellar water can help keep your skin clear, especially for those with acne, blocked pores, or stubborn blemishes. Conditions like acne are often caused by clogged pores. Micellar water when used on oily skin cleans and unclogs pores, thereby preventing acne.
Does micellar water get rid of blackheads?
Although research on this aspect is limited, several studies have found that using micellar water for oily skin can help improve acne and reduce blackheads.
Can we use micellar water every day?
Micellar water for oily skin can be used up to twice a day, but it’s a good idea to follow it up with a moisturizer, or it may cause dryness over a period of time.
Can I use micellar water to remove sunscreen?
Micellar water feels light like water, but like an oil-based cleanser, this gentle, daily-use makeup remover effectively removes sunscreen, oil, and grime. It cleans skin using micelles, which are tiny spheres of oil suspended in soft water that can effectively bust through layers of sunscreen.
How do you use micellar water for oily skin?
Micellar water can be used as a cleanser for oily skin. Soak a cotton pad in the formula and gently swipe away the dirt, makeup, and sebum.
Does micellar water remove pimples?
Micellar water helps remove dirt and sebum to clear clogged pores. This usually reduces the appearance of acne and pimples and helps you achieve clear skin.
Do I need to wash my face after using micellar water?
Yes, rinse your face with water after using micellar water to get rid of the micelles. This clears out the skin for better product absorption in the later steps of your skincare routine.
Is micellar water better than makeup remover?
No, micellar water cannot get rid of waterproof or oil-soluble makeup products. For this, you need a makeup remover. But, micellar water is the gentlest alternative for water-soluble makeup removal.
Does micellar water make your face oily?
Some brands of micellar water may make your face oily. But more commonly, not rinsing your face after cleansing with micellar water may cause congestion in the facial skin and lead to oiliness.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this post, Kirtana Divakar, has a keen interest in makeup and loves to explore products used in skin care. The list of best micellar waters for oily skin was curated after extensive research and reading many online consumer reviews and feedback. These micellar waters are a perfect fit to cleanse oily skin, and they keep excessive sebum, dirt, and debris at bay.
