What Would Happen if You Only Used Micellar Water to Wash Your Face?

Micellar water has quickly become a staple in many skin care routines, praised for its gentle cleansing properties and the ability to remove makeup, dirt, and oil without the need for rinsing. But with so many products on the market promising flawless skin, it’s natural to wonder: can you really use micellar water every day, and is it the best choice for your skin? In this post, we’ll explore the benefits and potential downsides of daily use. And, share what happened when I put Nivea’s new micellar water range to the test for 14 days.

What exactly is micellar water?

Micellar water is a unique skincare product that acts as a cleanser, toner, and makeup remover all in one. Its secret lies in the micelles – tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water – that attract dirt, oil, and impurities like a magnet. When you apply micellar water to a cotton pad and swipe it over your face, these micelles grab onto the grime and remove it from your skin without the need for harsh rubbing or rinsing.

Originally popular in France, micellar water gained widespread acclaim for its ability to cleanse skin gently without stripping it of its natural oils. It’s particularly favoured by those with sensitive skin, as it’s typically free of alcohol, fragrance, and harsh chemicals. The convenience of a no-rinse formula also makes it an attractive option for those who want a quick and easy skincare routine.

Why do some dermatologists caution against it?

While micellar water is undoubtedly a convenient and gentle cleanser, not all dermatologists are fully on board with using it as your sole method of cleansing, especially on a daily basis. The main concern stems from the fact that micellar water, although effective, might not provide a deep enough cleanse for those who wear heavy makeup or have oily or acne-prone skin.

Dermatologists often emphasise the importance of thoroughly cleansing your skin to prevent clogged pores, breakouts, and other skin issues. Since micellar water is designed to be a gentle cleanser, it might not fully remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen, or pollutants that have accumulated on your skin throughout the day. Over time, this buildup can lead to congestion and dullness.

Moreover, some micellar waters leave a residue on the skin that can interfere with the absorption of other skincare products. If you’re not rinsing your face after using micellar water, this residue may also mix with the oils on your skin and potentially cause irritation or breakouts.

I only use micellar water to wash my face for two weeks. Here’s what happened …

Curious to see how my skin would react to a micellar-only cleansing routine, I decided to put Nivea’s new Soothing Micellar Water to the test for 14 days. 

Formulated with Amino Acids and Dexpanthenol to remove make-up and leaves your skin feeling refreshed with 0% residue, this product is specifically formulated for sensitive skin and designed to soothe and nourish while cleansing.

The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to use. My evening skincare routine became incredibly quick. I simply soaked a cotton pad with the product, wiped it across my face, and followed up with my usual serum and moisturiser. In the morning, I repeated the process, enjoying the refreshing feel of the refreshing cleanser on my skin.

In the first few days, my skin felt soft, smooth, and hydrated. The micellar water effectively removed my makeup, including waterproof mascara, without any irritation or dryness. And, while I did miss the experience of a traditional foaming cleanse, there was no denying that the product was doing a very effective job of removing my full face of makeup every day. 

So, can you use micellar water every day?

So, can you use micellar water every day? In my experience, the answer is yes. With the new Nivea products showcasing their ease in removing dirt and makeup without stripping your skin. However, if you have oily, acne-prone skin, or wear heavy makeup, you might want to incorporate it into a double cleansing routine or alternate it with a deeper cleansing product to ensure your skin stays clear and healthy.

Ultimately my 14-day experiment with Nivea’s Soothing Micellar Water, reaffirmed that while micellar water is a great addition to my personal skincare arsenal, it might not be the one-size-fits-all solution for every day. It’s all about finding the right balance for your skin’s needs.