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Even though France tends to get all the credit for micellar water—aka the one beauty product that every single person in the universe loves—we’ve had some innovations with the cleanser stateside, too. Case in point? The Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water ($7).
Experts in This Article
board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut and associate clinical professor in dermatology at Yale School of Medicine
board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York
In fact, one bottle of this cleanser is sold every four seconds. It’s literally the number-one-selling micellar water in the U.S., despite the fact that we can totally buy French-fave micellar cleansers here now too (like Bioderma or Caudalie). Why is it so incredibly good? Well, Garnier’s micellar wash has all of those lovable qualities that we know and continually turn to micellar cleansers for: It’s gentle, has zero harsh detergents, removes makeup like a pro, and cleanses your skin without drying it out. Oh, and you can get it at your local drugstore for less than the cost of lunch.
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & Makeup Remover — $9.00
The benefits of micellar water
“Micellar water is a super gentle method of cleansing skin,” board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, previously told Well+Good. “It gets its name because it contains micelles which are oil-in-water suspensions that attract dirt, bacteria, and makeup, but gently—without stripping moisturize from your skin.”
Board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, recommends thinking of micelles as “little warriors” that surround a dirt particle and break it down. Because of this, micellar water is a great first step in a double-cleansing routine, as it helps to melt away makeup. And if you’ve got dry or sensitive skin, works well on its own to effectively cleanse your face without stripping or irritating it.
Why we love Garnier Micellar Water
All micellar waters are gentle, but because Garnier’s version is so light on ingredients and filled with hydration, even the most sensitive of skin types can use it without irritation.
On Ulta’s website, this cleanser has racked up over 800 five-star reviews, while 73 percent of customers on Amazon rated it as five-star. “This stuff is magical,” writes one reviewer. “This product is amazing. Great amount of product for money. Pills make off in one swipe. Makes skin feel super refreshed and clean. No problems on sensitive skin! Love it!” agrees another.
The proof’s in the pudding, which, in this case, is the happy, clean complexions of thousands and thousands of people out there. Micellar water, you win our hearts yet again.
If you’re looking for more face washing intel, here a dermatologist answers: Should you oil cleanse every day? And this is the Dr. Pimple Popper acne treatment that just uses your face wash and your sink for some breakout-busting magic.
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