What does Micellar Water do?
Micellar water is a type of skin cleanser formulated to remove makeup by using chemicals mixed into water. It contains micelles, which are tiny lipid molecules suspended in water. However, due to the alcohol or other astringent ingredients, it actually dries out and sensitises the skin over time, as well as chipping away at the structure below the skin – all of which can lead to premature ageing.
What are the side effects of Micellar Water?
Common side effects and downsides include:
- Dryness and Irritation: It can cause skin irritation, redness, and weaken the skin barrier.
- Acne: Micellar Water has been proven to leave a residue that can clog pores.
- Allergic Reactions: Potential to trigger allergic reactions, such as rashes, soreness, or inflammation.
- Eye Irritation: Despite being marketed as safe for eye makeup removal, it can cause irritation.
- Premature Ageing: Stripping the skin’s natural barrier makes it more susceptible to UV damage, pigmentation and early ageing.
Does Micellar Water damage the skin barrier?
Yes. Micellar water can strip away essential nutrients and natural oils that protect and hydrate the skin. This leaves the skin more sensitive and exposed to UV rays and environmental pollutants.
Can you overuse Micellar Water?
Yes. Using micellar water excessively, especially with cotton pads, can harm the skin. People often continue using it until the pads come out clean, but this removes essential oils and nutrients, leaving a sticky residue that may attract dirt.
Does Micellar Water dry out the skin?
Yes. All skin types, whether normal, oily, or non-sensitive, may experience dryness after a few weeks of use. For those with sensitive or dry skin, irritation and dryness may occur after just a few uses.
Micellar water contains harsh chemicals that dry out and damage skin cells, leading to premature aging. Prolonged use strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dehydrated and more vulnerable to UVA damage, free radicals, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Why is Micellar Water so bad for our skin?
Micellar Water melts away the ‘glue’ that keeps your skin together. It is like chipping away the mortar between the bricks that make up your house. This means that it will certainly cause premature ageing. Have you seen recent videos online of people using Micellar Water to make trainers white again? This in itself shows that Micellar Water is too strong for something as sensitive as our skin…
If you really love Micellar Water for how great it is for taking off your makeup because it doesn’t come off with a quality makeup remover (ie a non-damaging and non-stripping cleanser) then it is probably time to ask yourself what is in your makeup!
