- For people with sensitive skin, makeup remover can cause irritation if not rinsed out
- Micellar water contains molecules that act as magnets for dirt and makeup
- READ MORE: What is micellar cleansing water and which is the best?
Dermatologists and makeup lovers know the basic rule: always wash your face before bed.
And few products make this easier than micellar water, an H20-based solution that acts like a magnet, removing eye and facial makeup with a few simple swipes of a cotton swab.
But dermatologists now say that ditching the products that don't require rinsing leads to blotchy, irritated skin and watery eyes.
Micellar water is made up of tiny molecules called micelles that attract and remove dirt from the skin.
But micelles can disrupt the structure of the skin, according to New York dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, who said, “My recommendation is to always rinse micellar water off just to be safe.”
Dermatologists warn that not rinsing off micellar water can cause irritation in people with sensitive skin
Micellar water has become a major moneymaker for cosmetic brands. Garnier's micellar water flies off the shelves at a rate of 15 bottles per minute.
That's 900 bottles per hour, 21,600 bottles per day, 151,200 per week and almost eight million bottles per year.
The molecules in the liquid are called surfactant molecules and are found in most detergents.
These molecules have two ends. One attracts water and one attracts oils, meaning the product is able to bring together two ingredients that wouldn't normally be combined.
Micellar water also contains another chemical called a humectant, which attracts and binds moisture to the skin.
But people with sensitive skin should be careful.
Dr. Nazarian said, “Although most people can tolerate surfactants on the skin (especially if they are gentle surfactants), some are irritating and some people may even be allergic to them.”
“If you have an allergy to surfactants, your skin may become red, itch, or swell with repeated use.”
If fragrances are added to a product, this can also cause irritation.
Dr. Shirley Chi, a board-certified dermatologist in California, said, “There are a few people out there who can't leave anything on their skin because they're so reactive, so those people would have to rinse off micellar water.”
Experts add that this irritation can be particularly acute around the eyes.
Beverly Hills-based dermatologist Julia T. Hunter says if you don't rinse your face, makeup residue could be left on the delicate eye skin, which could potentially clog the oil glands on your eyelids.
This can lead to an infection, which can cause itching, swelling, dryness, and ultimately watery eyes.
Micellar water is recommended for all skin types and is very effective at removing most makeup. However, an oil or traditional cleanser and water may be required to remove stubborn waterproof mascara and a thick layer of foundation.
New York-based dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss said: “If you wear makeup, heavier makeup or even light makeup and take a white towel after using a cotton pad with micellar water, some residue may remain.” That's why I personally use it first Cleaning in my routine.”
Dermatologist reveals why you are using micellar water incorrectly – and it leads to watery eyes