What Is a Micellar Water Cleanser?

In the GH Beauty Lab’s most recent makeup remover test, which involved testing micellar waters, our scientists tallied 12,200 total data points to find the best of the best. The Lab tested how well they removed eyeliner from skin in one swipe and then measured the number of swipes needed to completely remove the eyeliner. Our scientists also evaluated their efficacy, thoroughness and speed in removing eyeliner from skin.

Afterward, 176 testers tried the products at home, taking into consideration ease of dispensing, application and rinsing off; texture; scent; perceived effectiveness in removing makeup; whether they caused irritation or breakouts; and the look and feel of skin after use.

The products included above are a combination of Lab test winners, dermatologist recommendations and editor favorites.

To find the best micellar water for your skin type, take the following into consideration:

✔️ Formulas: Most micellar waters have similar formulas, Aral notes. True to their name, “They are mostly water (even if it lists a juice or distillate as first ingredient) and have a low concentration of a mild detergent,” she adds. So, they will likely all do the job of removing your makeup effectively.

✔️ Ingredients: Some micellar waters claim additional skin benefits such as hydration, “but a micellar water formula is unlikely to hydrate skin to such a degree that you can skip your daily moisturizer,” Aral says. So make sure you don’t skip moisturizing just because you’re using a micellar water!

Technically, no. “These are designed so that you don’t have to wash afterwards,” explains Aral. “But if you still like to follow with your favorite cleanser or just water, you won’t be committing a crime.”

Yes! Just make sure you find the right formula for your skin, Aral advises. Once you’ve found the most effective one for you, “it can be used every day for removing makeup and dirt at the end of the day,” she says.

GH Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn updated this article. She works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab to help deliver fact-based, science-backed beauty coverage. Over the years, she has interviewed experts, written product reviews and tested hundreds of skincare products including cleansers and makeup removers. Many of the micellar waters included above are ones she’s personally tried.

She worked with GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D. to update this story; Birnur provided expert insight as well as product recommendations. In addition to her 15 years of leading clinical and consumer testing in the Beauty Lab, Birnur has R&D experience through her seven-year stint at Unilever U.S.

Former GH Assistant Beauty Editor Paige Stables wrote the original article. At the time of original publish, she interviewed board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, M.D. and celebrity esthetician Jeannel Astarita for expert insight and product picks.