Cleansers, micellar water & makeup removers - what's the difference?

If you've been following us, you'd know the golden rule no. 1 of skincare: cleanse well! But are you confused about cleansing vs. makeup removal? And with so many cleansers, makeup removers and micellar waters around, how do you choose the right one for you? Read on, and your doubts will be "cleared"!

What is the difference between a cleanser & a makeup remover?

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Cleansers include all products that cleanse excess oil, dirt, residue and light makeup from your face. They are more "general purpose" than makeup removers, which are usually more targeted, powerful formulas used to remove waterproof makeup (including the formidable waterproof mascaras).

What are the different types of cleansers?

You can have cleansing lotions, wipes, cleansing balms, creams and gently foaming cleansers as well.

How does a makeup remover work?

Makeup typically needs some oil to dissolve and remove. Makeup removers have oily components that work DIRECTLY on makeup, as opposed to cleansers, where the oil is emulsified with water to make a cream-like formula.

What are the different types of makeup removers?

Makeup removers are usually liquids, and can be in a single (oil) phase, bi-phasic (distinct oil and water phases) and micellar waters (oil droplets suspended in water).

What are micellar waters?

Micellar waters contain tiny cleansing oil droplets suspended in water. The oil droplets (aka micelles) cleanse dirt and makeup. Micellar waters are good for soft makeup and general cleansing, but usually not great for waterproof makeup or heavy face makeup.

So what do I use if I have waterproof makeup on?

Use a single phase or biphasic makeup remover, and not a cleanser or micellar water if you have stubborn makeup on.

Can I skip face wash if I use a cleanser or makeup remover?

Generally speaking, no. What cleansers and makeup removers do is to remove difficult makeup and grime from your face. They do not deep-pore cleanse, and cannot be substitutes to a good face wash. However, if you've not been out much, and have a dry skin, you can skip face wash at times, and settle for a good cleanser instead. More details in our blog here.

Hope we managed to answer the most burning questions on this topic. Let us know if you have any other questions, and we'll be glad to get you the answers. Cheers, be good!

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