Micellar water vs makeup wipes - Garnier Micellar water vs makeup wipes - Garnier

Is Micellar Water Better than Makeup Wipes?

Micellar water is a gentle no-rinse cleanser that removes makeup and leaves skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. This popular cleansing option is powered by tiny particles called micelles that work like a magnet to cleanse and remove makeup. The ingredient list of micellar water consists of nothing more than purified, demineralized water with gentle surfactants and micelles suspended in it. Refreshingly simple!

Makeup wipes are pre-moistened towelettes that are used as a convenient, travel-friendly option for cleansing your face. The most common ingredients in makeup wipes are surfactants, solubilizers, and emulsifiers. These ingredients help to dissolve makeup and eliminate excess oil and dead skin. 

However, this quick-fix option does not cleanse the skin effectively, and they're not good for the environment either.

Differences Between Micellar Water and Makeup Wipes

What is micellar water? - Garnier

What is Micellar Water?

Micellar water removes makeup and impurities, refreshes and tones the skin, all in one single step! It is typically applied using a cotton pad, but the environmentally conscious may prefer to opt for our reusable Micellar Cleansing Eco Pads. Micellar water does not contain any harsh ingredients, and there's no need to rinse your skin after use.

What are Makeup Wipes?

Like micellar water, makeup wipes remove makeup, but even the best makeup remover wipes do not fully cleanse your skin. They typically contain alcohol and other ingredients which may strip the skin and lead to irritation. While useful in a pinch, makeup wipes are not environmentally-friendly, since they aren’t recyclable or compostable. The average makeup wipe takes a staggering 100 years to decompose. With reports indicating that millions of pounds of makeup wipes are being discarded or flushed every day, it's clear why this beauty essential is causing significant harm to the planet.

Is micellar water better than makeup wipes? - Garnier

Is Micellar Water Right for You? Pros and Cons

Are Makeup Wipes the Best Choice? Pros and Cons

Micellar Water vs Makeup Wipes FAQ
  • If you have sensitive skin, the harsh ingredients contained in makeup wipes accompanied by the rubbing action on the skin may lead to irritation. Micellar water is a much more gentle cleansing option for sensitive skin types; simply soak a cotton pad, sweep it over your face, then lift away to remove impurities and makeup.
  • Micellar water can be used as the only cleansing step in your routine. Though very effective at removing makeup, it is also formulated to gently lift impurities and excess oil from your skin. However, after cleansing with micellar water, we recommend following up with your favorite moisturizer.
  • While micellar water is not known to cause breakouts, if you’re concerned about its effect on your skin, please consult a dermatologist. If in doubt about which formula you should choose, Garnier has a formula especially for acne-prone and oily skin: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Jelly Water with Charcoal.
  • You can use micellar water and makeup wipes together, but we advise to opt for micellar water alone. It is much more effective, more gentle, and leads to less environmental waste compared to makeup remover wipes.

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