Is micellar water a toner?

Author: Freida Steuber  |  Last update: Monday, January 5, 2026

Is Micellar Water a Cleanser or a Toner? Micellar Water is a cleanser, removing dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. However, it can also act as a mild toner by refreshing and balancing the skin.

Do I need a toner if I use micellar water?

The difference is the added ingredients — no micelles of soap, but low concentrations of alpha or beta hydroxy acids, for anti-aging or anti-acne purposes, or moisturizers.” So, can you use micellar water and a toner? Yes, you can use a toner after you wash your face, even if your cleanser is micellar water.

Is toner and micellar water the same thing?

Micellar water and toner are both parts of a facial routine, but they're not the same. Toners also remove any traces of your face cleanser and other stubborn debris to top off the cleansing routine. But unlike micellar water, some toners contain astringent compounds that fight bacteria, tighten pores, and control oil.

What are the downsides of micellar water?

The Cons:
  • Micellar water can contain bad ingredients like alcohol, fragrances and preservatives.
  • It is said to just move dirt and grime around on your skin rather than actually removing it.
  • It doesn't provide a thorough cleanse.

When not to use micellar water?

Possible Negative Effects on Acne-Prone Skin

Micellar water, for all its cleansing prowess, might not be a universal solution for acne sufferers. While it can effectively remove surface oils, makeup, and other impurities, it may not fully cleanse clogged pores which are a common issue for acne-prone skin.

Difference Between Micellar Water and Toner

Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?

Yes! Micellar water is very effective at removing makeup and skin impurities and is perfectly safe to be used daily.

What is the controversy with micellar water?

Common side effects and disadvantages of Micellar Water use:

Acne - can leave a residue on the skin that blocks pores. Allergic Reactions - can cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivities (rash / soreness / inflammation) Eye Irritation - even when promoted as safe for removing eye makeup.

Is it bad to not wash your face after using micellar water?

If you have very sensitive skin and you don't wash off micellar water after use, it may leave a residue on your skin that can cause irritation. However, it's generally safe, and sometimes preferred, not to wash it off. That said, it's important to follow the instructions of your specific product.

Is micellar water the same as witch hazel?

A: These two are nothing alike. Witch hazel is a toner and light refresher not to be used as a cleansing product! Micellar water is a makeup, oil, dirt, sunscreen, and grime remover. You use Micellar water to remove the makeup and the “day” off your skin first, and than you can tone afterwards with the witch hazel.

What is the most gentle makeup remover?

Drugstore brand Cetaphil is always popular among dermatologists, and their makeup remover is no exception. Chang recommends it because not only is it hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin, but it is extra gentle and lightweight.

Can I use micellar water every day?

Giving your skin daily uses of micellar water can keep it free from dirt, build up, residue, and even invisible pollutants that often clog your pores. Using the micellar water in your nighttime skincare routine keeps your face clean through the night and reduces any chances of acne breakouts.

Do I really need toner?

Toners aren't a must-have part of a skin care routine because other products (serums, essences and moisturizers) can provide many of the same benefits. Toners are, however, a nice-to-have because they can take your routine to the next level.

What order should I do my skincare?

The right morning routine will help your skin feel calm and hydrated all day long.
  1. Step 1: Cleanser. A clean face is your starting point for a healthy, glowing complexion. ...
  2. Step 2: Toner. ...
  3. Step 3: Serum. ...
  4. Step 4: Moisturizer. ...
  5. Step 5: Eye Cream. ...
  6. Step 6: Sunscreen.

Should you wash your face first or micellar water?

Micellar water is a no-rinse cleanser that uses micelles, which act like a magnet to gently lift dirt and makeup off skin. You can use it alone or, if you want to incorporate it into your double cleanse method, as the first cleanse before following it with a foamy or milky cleanser.

Is witch hazel a toner?

Witch hazel leaf extract used as an astringent (tighten and tone the skin) and emollient.

What is the best micellar water?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra, $19.
  • Best for Dry Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water, $13.
  • Best Drugstore: Simple Micellar Cleansing Water, $5.
  • Dermatologist-Approved: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-up Removing Micelle Solution, $19.

Is the pink or blue micellar water better?

A: Pink is normal/sensitive, blue is dry/sensitive, green is oily/combo. If you zoom in on the picture it says on the bottle what each is for. I have both the pink and blue and the blue has fragrance but it's nice and fresh. The pink is unscented.

What is the best use for micellar water?

When should you use micellar water? There are many uses for micellar water, per Bonjout. First, in the morning “as a light cleanse to remove oils that accumulate overnight.” You can also use it as the first step in a double cleansing routine, to gently remove makeup and surface oils before a foaming or gel face wash.

Which is better rose water or micellar water?

The major difference between the two is while micellar water focuses on gentle and thorough cleansing, rose water tightens the pores and balances the skin's pH.

What is the disadvantage of micellar water?

Drawbacks of Using Micellar Water

While micellar is great for light cleansing, it may struggle with heavy makeup or sunscreen. This limitation can leave residue on the skin, necessitating a follow-up with a deeper cleanser for a truly thorough cleanse.

Why I don't use micellar water?

Both explained how micellar water is in fact gentle, but it can leave surfactants behind on the skin, which can become irritating depending on your skin type and it's better to be on the safe side and just rinse.

Does micellar water clog pores?

'Micellar waters can be bad news for people with congested skin that's prone to breakouts,' advises Kerr. 'This is because the ingredients used in micellar waters leave a surface residue on the skin which can act like a film, blocking pores and disrupting oil production.

Is micellar water good for aging skin?

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Makeup Remover

Dr. Engelman recommends this formula since it is both fragrance- and alcohol-free. She also likes its hydrating benefits, which can be especially helpful for mature skin types.

What is a good alternative to micellar water?

At Oh My Cream, we make a point of advising you to use a natural make-up remover every evening, one that's not micellar water! Our preferred alternative to micellar water? Cleansing oil(and cleansing balms too). There's nothing like an oily substance to dissolve make-up, sunscreen residue or pollution.

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