6 Best Micellar Waters For Sensitive Skin (2024), As Per An Esthetician

Top micellar water options that are gentle on your sensitive skin and tough on makeup.

Reviewed by Anna Misztela, Licensed Esthetician
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

If there’s one skincare staple for every skincare expert or blogger, it’ll be the micellar water. So, in case you have been looking for one, ahead, you’ll find the best micellar waters for sensitive skin. Micellar water is a must-have for every skincare routine as it removes the makeup easily and then cleanses the skin deeply without causing inflammation or irritation. So, if you have sensitive skin, we have good news for you! Here you’ll come across the 6 great micellar waters perfect for sensitive skin!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Travel-Friendly:Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar WaterPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Hypoallergenic:Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micellar WaterPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Dermatologist Tested:La Roche-Posay Cleansing Micellar Water UltraPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Gentle Formula:Klorane Micellar WaterPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best pH-Balanced:Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Cleansing WaterPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Lightweight:Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing WaterPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

6 Best Micellar Waters For Sensitive Skin

1. Best Travel-Friendly:Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

4.6
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Makeup Remover Image: Bioderma

The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water is formulated with a very similar composition to the human skin. The micellar technology of the formula hydrates sensitive skin while cleansing and removing makeup. This micellar water uses micelles, which are tiny molecules of fatty acid esters that help in capturing impurities without irritating or drying the skin. It contains DAF, a patented natural complex that calms your skin and increases its tolerance threshold. The cucumber and fruit extract further soothe the skin. This micellar water is non-sticky and free of oil, parabens, and alcohol. Watch this video of a tester’s experience to know why you should buy the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water.

Key Ingredients: Fatty acid Esters, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber), and Fruit Extract

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Oil-free
  • Gentle
  • Non-sticky
  • Value for money
  • Travel-friendly

Cons

  • May not work well with waterproof makeup

protip_icon Quick Tip
To effectively remove makeup, soak a cotton pad, press it against your face and lift away to remove impurities and makeup. Do not wipe harshly.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 6,914 rave reviews on Amazon.

2. Best Hypoallergenic:Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micellar Water

The Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micellar Water cleans your skin and removes makeup. The micellar technology also hydrates dry and dehydrated skin without disturbing its balance or causing irritation. This gentle-cleansing micellar water is infused with fatty acid esters that tone and protect the skin’s outermost layer and naturally help rebuild the skin’s hydrolipidic coat.

The micellar water contains the Aquanium Patented Natural Complex with vitamin PP and apple seed extract that reactivate the natural hydration process of the skin. Glycerin also supports skin hydration. This dermatologist-tested micellar water leaves your skin feeling softer and more radiant. For best results, use soft water to wash your face after using it. This video of a reviewer’s experience will give you an unfiltered opinion of the Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micellar Water.

Key Ingredients: Fatty Acid Esters, Glycerin, Vitamin PP, and Apple Seed Extract

Pros

  • Gentle
  • Instant freshness
  • Non-irritating
  • Soothes the skin
  • Decongests pores
  • Paraben-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologically-tested

Cons

  • Strong fragrance

protip_icon Pro Tip
Use micellar waters with formulation on the oilier side to remove heavy makeup.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 5,332 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

3. Best Dermatologist Tested:La Roche-Posay Cleansing Micellar Water Ultra

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Image: By Bioderma

The La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water Ultra is a no-rinse cleaner with a lightweight consistency. It cleans your skin thoroughly, removes makeup, and refreshes it. The dirt-encapsulating micelles in the formula attract dirt, sebum, microscopic pollution particles, and makeup to gently wipe them off your face. This product also soothes and comforts the skin and leaves a rejuvenating and refreshing sensation. It helps improve skin tone and the natural moisture barrier of the skin.

This dermatologist-recommended micellar water is formulated with poloxamer, a gentle cleanser that exhibits a calming effect on the skin. It also contains the antioxidant-rich La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water and glycerine that soothe and hydrate the skin. It claims to remove 99% of long-wearing foundation without harsh rubbing or causing breakouts.

Key Ingredients: Poloxamer, Glycerine, and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

Pros

  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Soap-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Oil-free
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Allergy-tested

Cons

  • Not suitable for acne-prone skin

protip_icon Pro Tip
Always use a second cleanse to effectively remove all traces of makeup and dirt to prevent clogging your pores.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 4,986 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Best Travel-Friendly
Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micellar Water
Best Hypoallergenic
La Roche-Posay Cleansing Micellar Water Ultra
Best Dermatologist Tested
Skin Type Sensitive Sensitive Combination, Sensitive, Normal
Dimensions 2.76 x 2.76 x 8.27 inches- 2.4 x 2.4 x 1 inches
Weight 7.05 Ounces- 13.49 Ounces
Dimensions ‏- ‎ 2.32 x 2.32 x 5.98 inches; 8.82 Ounces-
Rating
Reviews6,9145,3324,986
Price$13.29$27.99$16.99

4. Best Gentle Formula:Klorane Micellar Water

Klorane Micellar Water
Image: By Klorane

The Klorane Micellar Water is a 3-in-1 makeup removerthat ensures to clean the skin quickly and gently to remove all traces of dirt and makeup. This is an affordable option and has a lightweight consistency. It is specifically formulated for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes and is suitable for all skin types. This soothing micellar water removes makeup from the face, eyes, and lips without tugging at the skin, irritating it, or disturbing its fragile balance.

This product is scientifically-formulated with micelles, organically farmed cornflower, and a minimalist 6-ingredient formula, which effectively remove makeup and leave the skin clean, soothed, and soft. Cornflower water soothes the skin as its pH is similar to that of tears. This reduces irritation and is gentle for sensitive eyes and skin. This micellar water ensures that the skin is left feeling clean, hydrated, and soft with every use.

Key Ingredients: Organically Farmed Cornflower Water

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Gentle
  • Alcohol-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Oil-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Ophthalmologist tested
  • Vegan

Cons

  • None

5. Best pH-Balanced:Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Cleansing Water

Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Cleansing Water
Image: Vichy

The Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water has a multi-benefit formula that not only cleanses the skin and removes makeup but also soothes and strengthens it – all in one simple step. This dermatologist-tested micellar water is a quick, effective cleanserthat is ideal for sensitive skin as it does not require unnecessary rubbing or rinsing to clean the skin.

This multitasking micellar water contains Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water, which is rich in 15 minerals that hydrate the skin and reinforce its barrier to protect it against environmental aggressors. It also contains panthenol (vitamin B5) to soothe and strengthen the skin. These additional ingredients also smooth out the skin. This micellar water leaves the skin feeling hydrated and soothed. This multitasking product is a treat for sensitive skin types.

Key Ingredients: Vichy Volcanic Thermal Water and Panthenol (Vitamin B5)

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Offers skin barrier protection
  • No-rinse formula
  • Alcohol-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Soap-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • pH-balanced

Cons

  • Does not remove long-lasting makeup

6. Best Lightweight:Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water

Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water
Image: By Simple

The Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water is infused with skin-friendly minerals and a natural ingredient–plant extract, making it ideal for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. It makes your skin feel refreshed, supple, and instantly hydrated without any irritation. This product is lightweight, and the micellar cleansing bubbles attract and lift makeup and impurities off your face without leaving the skin feeling dry or tight.

This micellar water features the Water Boost regimen that specifically works towards reversing the five symptoms of early dehydration – dryness, roughness, tightness, dullness, and dehydrated lines. It supports effective cleansing and leaves your skin rejuvenated, hydrated, and revitalized. This product contains no harsh chemicals, added fragrances, or artificial colors. It helps with skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and clogged pores. Click on the video of a reviewer’s experience to find the benefits of the Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water.

Key Ingredients: Lactic Acid and Glycerine

Pros

  • Reverses 5 symptoms of dehydration
  • Lightweight
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Non-greasy
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • No artificial colors or fragrances

Cons

  • May irritate the skin and eyes
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Micellar water is now a much loved and essential product in every vanity kit. This multitasking miracle product works overtime as a makeup remover, facial cleanser, and hydration booster. . For sensitive skin, it works best as it is non-abrasive and skin-friendly. If you are wondering how to choose the best micellar water for sensitive skin, scroll through our list of factors.

How To Choose The Best Micellar Water For Sensitive Skin

  • Ingredients To Avoid

For sensitive skin, look for a minimalistic product that holds back on the number of ingredients, to include only the basics for cleansing and makeup removal. Products without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, mineral, oil or added fragrances work best on sensitive skin. Opt for product recommendations from dermatologists for sensitive skin types.

  • Ingredients To Look For

Apart from deep cleaning the skin, micellar waters are packed with ingredients that keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Look for products that contain ingredients like thermal spring water, glycerin, rose water, floral water, orange fruit extracts, panthenol (Vitamin B5), aloe vera, and avocado extract to protect and soften the skin. The presence of soothing natural botanical extracts like lavender, sage, cucumber, and calendula prevent the skin from drying out.

  • Formulation

Look for micellar waters with gentle, non-irritating formulas. Avoid harsh ingredients like soap and alcohol which can cause allergic reactions. These can also irritate the delicate skin, especially around the sensitive eye area, while removing eye makeup. Since micellar waters are not meant to be washed off, it is advisable to choose products that are lightweight and non-sticky.
If you want to be extra safe, opt for the micellar waters that are dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. These work best for those with sensitive eyes to remove mascara without making the eyes water.

  • pH Levels

Choose micellar waters that help to maintain the natural pH of skin. Unlike the classic foaming cleansers, these require no scrubbing to be effective so they are perfect for sensitive skin. Ingredients like cornflower water soothes the skin and maintains the natural pH levels.

Infographic: How To Use Micellar Water In Your Beauty Routine

Micellar water is a multi-functioning skin care staple. If you thought you could only use it to remove makeup or refresh your face, you are wrong! There are plenty of other ways to use this skin-friendly product in your everyday beauty routine. Check out the infographic below to know more.

How To Use Micellar Water In Your Beauty Routine (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Removing the makeup thoroughly without scratching or stressing the skin is essential to keep your skin healthy and irritation-free. This is why you need micellar water to do it most conveniently. Micellar water combines purified water, moisturizing ingredients, and mild surfactants. When you dab a cotton ball and remove the makeup with it, it attracts dirt, oil, and makeup smoothly and leaves behind clear and beautiful skin. The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water effectively cleanses the skin while soothing and hydrating it, whereas the Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Cleansing Water does so while protecting the skin against environmental damage. If you need a gentle formulation that cleanses makeup without causing breakouts, the La Roche-Posay Cleansing Micellar Water Ultra is perfect. Include micellar water in your skincare regimen to see visibly healthy and happy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to use micellar water every day on sensitive skin?

Yes. You can include micellar water in your daily skin care routine. It acts like a cleanser or a toner that you can use every day. It will not strip off the natural moisture from your skin and will not irritate it while cleansing. This is what makes it ideal for sensitive skin. Simply pour a few drops of micellar water on a cotton pad and gently rub it over your face to remove all residues and makeup; you won’t even need to rinse afterward.

Do I need to wash my face after using micellar water?

No. You can use micellar water as a regular cleanser. It will help cleanse the surface of your face and remove impurities.

How do I choose micellar water for sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin, look for micellar water that is gentle and has a perfume-free formulation, and one that does not require excessive wiping.

Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?

Dermatologists widely recommend micellar water as it is gentle and will effectively remove debris and pollutants from the skin’s surface.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skin and hair care expert. She conducts thorough research before recommending products to her readers. She has compiled this list of the best micellar waters for sensitive skin to help remove makeup easily without irritating the skin. Shiboli has also mentioned each product’s pros and cons and specifications to help you pick the most suitable one.


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