Micellar water: what is it and what is it for?
Micellar water is one of the most popular products in the skin care routine, mainly because it promises practicality. But do you know what it is for and how to use it correctly?
Despite the technical name, micellar water is nothing more than an aqueous solution composed of micelles, that is, microscopic structures formed by molecules. These small structures work like small magnets capable of capturing makeup residue, oil, pollution and dirt accumulated throughout the day, without the need to scrub the skin.
"A very simplistic explanation would be that these micelles are small cleaning particles. One part of them will attract the most oily dirt and another part will attract the dirt that dissolves more in the watery part, so it is a product that was made to clean the face in a better way, without intense aggression", explains Marina Hayashida, dermatologist.
Unlike conventional soaps, which can be aggressive and alter the skin's pH, micellar water carries out a cleansing process that preserves the natural skin barrier. Furthermore, in many cases, it does not need to be rinsed, which makes it a quick option for everyday life.
However, this 'no' rinsing rule does not work for all skin types and attention is needed.
"In sensitive skin, with rosacea, dermatitis or a tendency to irritation, it is common for product residue to cause burning, redness or a sticky sensation, so rinsing or finishing with a mild soap may be better. In oily skin, sometimes the residue is also bothersome and can worsen the oily sensation. On normal and resistant skin, it usually works well without rinsing. But in general, I recommend a quick rinse to remove any sensitizing residue", details Carulina Moreno, dermatologist.
How to use micellar water?
The product can be used at different times in the routine. It is used to clean, remove makeup, soften and rebalance the dermis. As it does not contain alcohol, soap or parabens in most of its formulations, the product is suitable for all skin types, from extremely oily to the most sensitive and reactive.
In addition to cleansing, many formulas also offer softening and moisturizing action, helping to maintain the balance of the skin barrier.
"It is important to highlight that micellar water does not completely replace cleansing with soap, especially when cleaning at night. This is because we need a much more effective and effective cleansing during this period and just using micellar water may not be enough. Especially in cases where the person used sunscreen or even some makeup item during the day. Therefore, it should be used more as a complement to the routine", adds Hayashida.
How to choose my micellar water?
Choosing the ideal micellar water depends on each person's skin type and routine. For those with oily and acne-prone skin, oil-free formulas with calming active ingredients, such as zinc or niacinamide, are the best options. Those with dry or sensitive skin should prioritize versions without fragrances or irritating agents, with moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin or panthenol.
"In terms of contraindications, micellar water is generally well tolerated, but it is always good to do a sensitivity test before using it on the entire face, especially if the skin is very sensitive or reactive", explains Luana Vieira Mukamal, dermatologist at Grupo Kora Saúde.
For those who wear heavier makeup, there are two-phase micellar waters, which combine water and oil for more effective removal of residue.
"The traditional version is more suitable for normal to dry skin, as its formula is gentler and suitable for removing impurities and light makeup. The two-phase versions, which combine water and oil, are more suitable for oily skin or for those who need to remove waterproof makeup. These two-phase versions have a more powerful action, as the oil helps to dissolve heavier products", adds Mukamal.
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Source: CNN