Of all the products that remove makeup, micellar water stands out. Why? Because it does that and cleanses in one step, eliminates the need for double cleansing or rinsing, and can be done anywhere, with or without a sink. Originally designed for sensitive skin and to help Parisian women sidestep the region’s harsh tap water, it became popularised by makeup artists who used it for quick makeup changes. Now, everyone’s on to it. No surprise there, since all that’s needed are cotton pads.
Of all the products that remove makeup, micellar water stands out. Why? Because it does that and cleanses in one step, eliminates the need for double cleansing or rinsing, and can be done anywhere, with or without a sink. Originally designed for sensitive skin and to help Parisian women sidestep the region’s harsh tap water, it became popularised by makeup artists who used it for quick makeup changes. Now, everyone’s on to it. No surprise there, since all that’s needed are cotton pads.
DEPARTMENT/ SPECIALITY STORE CATEGORY
CLEANSING OIL
● Readers’ Choice
1. Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi + Pollutant & Dullness Clarifying Cleansing Oil
Papaya, moringa and green tea extracts in this cleansing oil work together to remove makeup and impurities thoroughly, as well as brighten sallow skin. Unlike most cleansing oils, this can even be used with wet hands and is safe for eyelash extensions.
● Editors’ Choice
2. Cle de Peau Beaute Cleansing Cream Oil
This goes from a rich cream to a comforting oil and helps to keep skin moisturised, especially if it’s tissued off instead of rinsed off. Argan oil further hydrates and conditions the skin, so it stays soft and smooth.
CLEANSING MILK/BALM
● Readers’ Choice
3. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm
It starts off souffle-like but melts into a luxurious oil when applied, dissolving waterproof makeup without tugging at the skin (good for the delicate eye area) or leaving behind a greasy film.
● Editors’ Choice
4. Cle de Peau Beaute Gentle Cleansing Milk
This has a light but comforting feel and is alcohol-free, making it suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin. Post-cleanse skin appears brighter and feels smoother, with less visible pores.
MICELLAR WATER
● Readers’ Choice and Bloggers’ Choice
5. La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water
With the brand’s signature Miracle Broth, this has positively and negatively charged waters to emulsify makeup (even waterproof ones) and “push” active ingredients into skin. It leaves skin looking radiant and even-toned.
● Editors’ Choice
6. Kenzoki Amazing Cleansing Water
Ginger plant essence and yuzu extract are the two key ingredients here – the former to detoxify and tone, the latter to moisturise.
DRUGSTORE CATEGORY
MICELLAR WATER
● Readers’ Choice
7. Biore Micellar Cleansing Water Oil Control
Apart from effectively removing waterproof makeup without drying out skin, this has antibacterial and oil-control properties to help clarify oily or blemished complexions over time.
● Editors’ Choice
8. Garnier Skinactive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1
This powerful yet gentle micellar water impresses by removing waterproof and long-wearing makeup sans rubbing. For more stubborn makeup, simply press the cotton pad over it for a longer time.
● Bloggers’ Choice
9. Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
Vitamin B3 helps soothe dry, sensitive skin, while vitamin C evens out skin tone. Skin feels more refreshed and hydrated after.
MAIN PHOTO KENNETH WONG
