Micellar water was developed in France more than 20 years ago as an antidote to tight, dry skin caused by hard water. Since then, the product’s all-in-one approach to skin care has found mass appeal. More than just basic H2O, micellar solution falls somewhere between a cleanser and a toner; it lifts away dirt and makeup and traps sebum inside non-ionic cleansing agents called micelles.

A simple swipe of a micellar water-soaked cotton pad removes impurities—no tugging, rubbing or rinsing required—leaving your skin hydrated and irritation-free. For stubborn makeup (think mascara or lipstick), apply the solution to a cotton pad and hold it against the area for five seconds, then swipe to remove.



Vichy Pureté Thermale One Step Cleansing Micellar Solution 3-in-1, $20, vichy.ca.
Bioderma Hydrabio H2O Micelle Solution, $19, bioderma.ca.
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, $10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.


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This article originally appeared in the April 2016 issue of Canadian Living Magazine.