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Whether or not you are an avid beauty guru, you may still put on makeup occasionally. A big problem that comes with applying makeup, or just with skin in general, is how to cleanse your skin, safely and with eco-friendly products. Be it after removing makeup or for sensitive skin; you may have struggled often with this very problem.

Makeup wipes and cleansing wipes have been used by countless people to attempt to cleanse their skin and are still quite the favorite among customers. But, it is important to keep in mind that wipes aren’t the only option you have for cleansing your skin. There are other products as well, two of the most popular being micellar water and cleansing oil. Makeup wipes don’t really CLEAN your skin. They pretty much only take off surface makeup, and that’s after rubbing it all around on your face. Gross.

You might be no stranger to either of these products. But for some, these items may be completely new. In any case, here is a guide to micellar water and cleansing oils and why they’re better than plain old makeup/cleansing wipes!

Micellar Water: An Introduction

What exactly is micellar water?

Micellar water is basically a skin cleanser - some people may refer to it as simply “cleansing water”. It’s a fairly innovative way to cleanse your skin, which may be one reason why not many people know about it. Not only can it remove your makeup, but it also rids your skin of the dust and sweat accumulated throughout the day.

How to use micellar water

Micellar water is fairly simple to use. All you need is the water and a cotton pad in some shape or form, and you’re all set! Next, apply some micellar water onto the cotton and gently wipe the makeup off of your skin until it’s completely removed. While the first cleanse removes the makeup and any lingering SPF, the second attempt works directly for your skin, removing the dirt and sweat.  When using on eye makeup, don’t tug at it. Let the cotton pad sit on your eye area for about 15 seconds, then gently wipe.

Why use micellar water?

The main benefit of cleansing water is its gentle formula. Unlike wipes - makeup or otherwise - you don’t need to scrub off the excess materials on your face forcefully. The micelles present in the water dissolve the makeup and oil on your skin so that they can be removed completely just with a simple rinse of water.

It’s the perfect alternative to the harsh scrubbing you may be used to with the wipes. It’s also great for sensitive skin because you don’t need to be too harsh on your skin.

With micellar water, you don’t need to worry about carrying it around everywhere - it’s available in travel sizes as well! Better yet, micellar water towelettes are also on the market - they’re similar to makeup wipes, except much gentler on the skin and perfect to tuck into your purse or bag for traveling.

Recommendations for Micellar Water

Vichy Purete Thermale One Step Cleansing Micellar Solution

This micellar water has a multipurpose formula that works as a makeup remover, as well as a facial toner! It doesn’t leave your skin all oily and sticky and prevents breakouts, too.

Tarte’s Micellar Magic Makeup Remover and Cleanser

Tarte’s micellar water is second to none - it’s perfect for removing all kinds of makeup, even if it’s waterproof! It contains plant-based ingredients that rejuvenate the skin beyond comparison!

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & Waterproof Makeup Remover

Garnier’s micellar water is gentle and powerful. There are 5 different formulations made for all types of skin. They have formulas for brightening, sensitive skin, waterproof, mattifying, and hydrating.

Cleansing oils: An Introduction

What are cleansing oils?

Cleansing oils are a completely opposite medium to cleanse your skin, as opposed to the freshness of micellar water. Similar to micellar water, the cleansing oil also breaks down the oil in the makeup so it can be washed out easily with a single rinse.

How to use cleansing oils

First, apply a good amount of it onto your skin and massage it. The first application of cleansing oil takes off the makeup. Unlike micellar water, you’ll need to emulsify it by adding a little water to your face. The foam is an indication of the makeup is removed. It should be followed by another different cleanser, such as micellar water to rid your skin of excess products completely.

Why use cleansing oils?

The benefits of cleansing oils are almost the same as those of micellar water. Similar to micellar water, you don’t have to rub your skin harshly and damage it further. Instead, all you need to do is gently massage your face and let the formula of the oil do its magic.

Recommendations for Cleansing Oils

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil

This cleansing oil won Allure’s 2019 Best of Beauty Award, so that’s enough indication why it’s one of the best ones out there. The natural ingredients are infused to clean your skin and leave a soft and smooth aftereffect.

Laneige Cream Skin Milk Oil Cleanser

Laneige’s new oil cleanser is another highly recommended one. Every application leaves you with well-nourished and cleansed skin. It works well with sensitive skin as well.

Banilla Co. Clean It Zero 3-in-1 Cleansing Balm 

This isn’t an oil, but a balm. I like this as well because it is easy to travel with. You also use this the same way as a cleansing oil; You put some on your face and add a touch of water to emulsify. Banilla Co. makes 5 different balms for all skin types: Original, clarifying, nourishing, purifying, and revitalizing.

What Type is Best for Your Skin?

If your skin is acne-prone, start out with a water-based product. In this case, micellar water is perfect. Although it’s better to consult with a dermatologist beforehand, micellar water is super gentle, and it removes excess oil from your face, without stripping it.

In contrast, if your skin is fairly regular, then you don’t need to confine yourself to water-based products only. Oil-based products work fine for less sensitive skin, especially if you have drier skin than usual.

No matter which of these you choose, there are a ton of options you can choose from. There is likely a formula out there that will work perfectly for you. There are countless formulas using natural ingredients as well as chemical ones, so it’s important that you do your research before picking one up. For starters, you may need to experiment quite a bit before you end up with a cleanser you really like.

Needless to say, any of these options are much better than the harshness of wipes. Not only are they gentler to your skin, but they also leave your skin in a better condition overall and over time.

If you have any recommendations for cleaning products, share them in the comments below.

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