Micellar Water Is The Game-Changing Cleanser That Removes Makeup In A Flash

We love buzzy international beauty products, especially ones that make their way to the States. K-Beauty sheet masks and essences have changed the skin care game, so we were eager to learn more about micellar water, the new makeup remover on U.S. shelves that French women swear by. Unlike makeup removers and cleansers that dry out the skin, micellar water is known to be supergentle and ultrahydrating. “[It] acts as a magnet for oil, makeup residue and other impurities [and] cleanse[s] the skin without drying it out,” explains Sejal Shah, M.D., a New York City–based dermatologist and RealSelf contributor. “Because the water does not strip the skin of its natural oils, it can be used for any skin type, but it’s especially great for people with dry or sensitive skin.” Needless to say, we had no reservations about trying the miracle water and found that it does remove makeup better than run-of-the-mill wipes. “Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water and gently sweep the pad across your face, moving from the center, outward,” Shah tells ESSENCE.com. “To remove stubborn makeup, press a soaked cotton pad against your skin for a few moments to help dissolve the makeup before sweeping it away. If your makeup is really heavy, you may need to double-cleanse with a more traditional cleanser first and then follow with the micellar water to remove any traces of makeup and replenish hydration to the skin.” To finally remove your makeup with confidence and cut your nighttime routine in half, try one of our micellar water picks featured in the gallery below.