A crystal clear, light cleansing micellar water that’s perfect for removing makeup and sensitive skin.

How does micellar water work?

There is a lot of technical jargon around micellar waters, but they are essentially just surfactants diluted in water with some moisturising elements added. Micellar waters work by hydrophilic “water-loving” and hydrophobic “water-hating” or “oil-loving” working together to break down oil, dirt, makeup, debris and neutralise them with water.

In addition to their cleansing abilities, micellar waters also have a toning effect on the skin, leaving it soft, hydrated and even moisturised.

This is in sharp contrast to traditional makeup removers that often agitate the skin after stripping away makeup and moisture. Micellar waters are even gentle enough to remain on the skin!

For these reasons, micellar waters have become a favourite amongst makeup wearers and general skincare enthusiasts as a gentle, effective way to clean and tone skin.

Substitutions

Pentylene Glycol is a naturally derived glycol that is a powerful humectant and solvent. It is an essential component that greatly contributes to the moisturising and hydrating effects of toner. However, if you are unable to find this you could use another glycol such as butylene, propylene or propanediol. Please note that most propylene & butyl Glycerine is not as effective but it can still be used as a natural humectant alternative.

Cucumber Extract has well documented anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin, helping to tone and balance sebum levels. This could also be substituted for green tea or chamomile extract which are also amazing antioxidants.

Natural surfactants for micellar waters

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

This is a great choice for the cleansing agent in your micellar waters as it is a very mild surfactant that does not irritate the skin or mucous membrane. It works well as a cleanser, despite being heavily diluted in this formula, and has a light, clear appearance that mimics the texture of water. Since it is partly derived from coconuts, Cocamidopropyl Betaine is often used in a variety of “natural” products, but it is actually considered “semi-synthetic”. Part of its molecule is also derived from a synthetic compound 3-(dimethylamino)propylamine. For all-natural options, please see the alternatives below.

Coco-Betaine

Coco-Betaine is a natural surfactant, often confused with Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Whilst both are derived from coconuts, coco-betaine is actually a natural surfactant, whilst Cocamidopropyl betaine is considered “semi-synthetic” or completely synthetic. The two should not be used interchangeably, as whilst coco-betaine is a natural surfactant, it is also more irritating on the skin and not used in mild cleansers or baby products. However, if you are looking for completely natural micellar water, you can try using coco-betaine.

Decyl Glucoside or Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside

Staple natural surfactants, both caprylyl/capryl glucoside and decyl glucoside will work well in micellar formulas due to their mild but effective cleansing abilities. Unlike Cocamidopropyl betaine, they have a thicker, more viscous texture that may be slightly noticeable in the final micellar formula but it won’t affect its application. It’s worth noting that they also have a distinctive scent that is difficult to mask with hydrosols, so if you prefer an odourless micellar formula - I would recommend using an alternative surfactant.

They are non-ionic surfactants and therefore carry a high pH that will need to be adjusted to between 5.0 and 5.5 to reduce irritation for extremely dry or sensitive skin.

Please note that your skin can experience sensitivity to any ingredient, even if it is considered mild, it is always advised to do a “patch test” first before applying new cosmetics.