Product Description

The Micellar Water from The Skin Store is a gentle, no-rinse cleansing solution designed to effectively remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup—including eye makeup—without stripping the skin's natural moisture. This all-in-one cleanser uses micellar technology to attract and lift away impurities like a magnet, leaving skin feeling clean, refreshed, and hydrated. Shake well before each use, then apply to a cotton pad and gently wipe over the face, eyes (holding the pad for 3-5 seconds on closed eyes as needed), and neck. No harsh rubbing or rinsing required, making it perfect for quick, everyday cleansing or makeup removal. Formulated with soothing Witch Hazel Water and mild plant-derived surfactants, it provides a non-drying, soothing cleanse suitable for daily use.

Who Should Use It

This micellar water is ideal for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover and cleanser, especially those with sensitive, dry, oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. It's particularly beneficial for individuals who wear makeup daily (including waterproof or long-wear formulas) and need a quick, no-fuss option that won't irritate the eyes or cause dryness. Those with busy lifestyles—travelers, gym-goers, or parents—will appreciate its convenience and portability. It's great for sensitive skin prone to redness, irritation, or breakouts, as well as for teens or anyone transitioning to cleaner skincare routines. Due to its mild exfoliating and toning properties, it's suitable for mature skin seeking gentle brightening. Perform a patch test if you have extremely reactive skin or known allergies to glucosides or witch hazel.

Ingredients List and Discussion

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of each ingredient listed on the product label, including its role, benefits for the skin, and reason for inclusion in this micellar water formulation. The focus is on gentle cleansing via micelles, soothing, hydration, mild exfoliation, and preservation.

• Water: The primary base and solvent, water dissolves and carries the other ingredients, forming the foundation for the micellar structure. It provides a lightweight, refreshing feel and enables easy application without residue. Essential for creating a rinse-free, water-like texture that's gentle on all skin types.
• Witch Hazel Water (Hamamelis Virginiana Water): Derived from the witch hazel plant, this natural astringent offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pore-tightening properties. It soothes redness, calms irritation, controls excess oil, and helps reduce acne or breakouts without drying the skin. Included here for its toning and calming effects, making the micellar water suitable for oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin while enhancing overall cleansing.
• Glycerin: A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture from the air, glycerin hydrates the skin deeply, prevents dryness post-cleansing, and supports the skin barrier. It reduces irritation and inflammation, leaving skin soft and supple. Added to counteract any potential drying from cleansing and to boost hydration in this no-rinse formula.
• Gluconolactone: A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) known for gentle exfoliation, gluconolactone removes dead skin cells, brightens tone, improves texture, and provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage. Larger molecules make it less irritating than AHAs, with added humectant benefits for moisture retention. It's included for mild anti-aging, smoothing, and clarifying effects, ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Sodium Benzoate: A safe, food-grade preservative that inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, ensuring product stability and safety. It's effective in water-based formulas and gentle on skin. Used here to extend shelf life without harsh alternatives like parabens.
• Medium Chain Triglycerides: Derived from coconut or palm kernel oil (caprylic/capric triglycerides), these lightweight emollients help form and stabilize micelles, aiding in the dissolution and removal of oils, makeup, and impurities. They provide a silky feel without greasiness and contribute to gentle emulsification. Included to enhance the micellar cleansing action while keeping the formula non-comedogenic and smooth.
• Decyl Glucoside: A mild, plant-derived (from coconut and corn glucose) non-ionic surfactant that creates micelles to gently lift dirt and makeup. It's biodegradable, very gentle, and produces stable foam if needed. Added for effective yet non-irritating cleansing, especially around the eyes.
• Lauryl Glucoside: Similar to decyl glucoside but with a longer chain, this plant-based surfactant boosts viscosity, foam stability, and cleansing power while remaining extremely mild and eco-friendly. It enhances emulsification and skin compatibility. Included to improve texture and mild detergency in the formula.
• Polysorbate 20: A gentle, non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer derived from sorbitol and lauric acid, it helps disperse oils and fragrances (if any) evenly, stabilizes micelles, and aids in removing makeup without irritation. It's commonly used in eye-safe products. Added for better solubilization of impurities and a smoother application.
• Alcohol: In low concentrations, alcohol acts as a solvent to dissolve ingredients, enhance penetration of actives, provide a quick-drying feel, and offer mild antimicrobial preservation. It helps with makeup dissolution but is used sparingly here to avoid dryness. Included for improved efficacy in oil and makeup removal, though the formula remains gentle overall.