You have to have heard of micellar waters by now. Micellar water has been garnering plenty of attention in the beauty scene as an excellent way to remove makeup or even just the daily grime on our faces during those no-makeup days.
To get into the science of it, micelles are lipid molecules that form themselves in a spherical formation, with their oil-loving tails pointing inwards. As makeup is mostly oil-based, they are more attracted to the oil-loving tails of the micelles than your face so that you can remove them.
Think of micellar makeup remover as a more gentle form of a cleansing oil, as they’re literally cleansing oil molecules suspended in water. You get the cleaning efficacy of cleansing oils, without actually having to spread oil all over your face which may clog pores and induce zits.
Without further ado, here’s a list of notable and/or recently launched brands of micellar water which you may not know about yet.
L’Oreal Paris Bi-Phase Micellar Water

This micellar water was reviewed by us, and it turned out to be as good as it claims! Its unique bi-phase technology consists of a micellar layer and a cleansing layer, both of which work in synergy to remove not only impurities, but even the most stubborn of makeup.
The micellar layer acts like a magnet to lift up impurities, oil and makeup off the skin, while the cleansing layer removes stubborn, waterproof makeup without including formula ‘nasties’ like oil, fragrance or alcohol.
L’Oreal Paris Bi-Phase Micellar Water retails for S$22.90 (400 ml) at all leading Watsons, Guardian, Unity stores, Lazada, and major super/hypermarkets.
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La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water

Although the price of this micellar water borders on the ridiculous, there have been many online reviewers who affirm that it is every bit the luxury treat for your skin as its price tag makes it out to be.
La Mer uses their signature marine nutrients as well as their Miracle Broth, delivered to your skin via micro capsules, in order to bring you this powerful cleansing water powered by the sea.
La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water retails for S$110 (100ml) and S$180 (200 ml) at Sephora.
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Guerlain Eau de Beaut� Micellar Cleansing Water

The star ingredient in the Guerlain Eau de Beaute Micellar Cleansing Water is the Nigella Flower Oil, which is said to have antioxidant properties to purify, tone and hydrate the skin.
The liquid is unique in that it is almost gel-like, rather than the watery texture of most micellar waters. This cleansing water also has an exclusive signature fragrance developed specially for Eau de Beaut�: a pure white tea blended with musky notes and some jasmine.
Guerlain Eau de Beaut� Micellar Cleansing Water retails for S$88 (200 ml) at Sephora.
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Sephora Collection Cleansing & Hydrating Micellar Water

Sephora’s very own micellar water boasts amino acids, which moisturise the skin to keep it soft and comfortable, even after cleansing. It thoroughly removes makeup, dirt, and grime while it nourishes your skin.
The cherry on top? Each bottle of Micellar Cleansing & Hydrating Water is made with 100% recycled plastic, so it does a little bit of good for the earth.
Sephora Collection Cleansing & Hydrating Micellar Water�retails for S$19 (200 ml) and S$29 (400ml) at Sephora.
Caudalie Vinoclean Micellar Cleansing Water

Bursting with organic grape water, Caudalie’s micellar water removes makeup, cleanses, and soothes the skin – even the most sensitive. It respects the skin’s microbiome as it cleanses, leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable.
It is a no-rinse formula, hypoallergenic, non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Caudalie Vinoclean Micellar Cleansing Water retails for S$37 (200ml) at Sephora.
Simple Micellar Cleansing Water

Simple is a brand that has gained its reputation for, well, keeping its ingredients simple. It works well with removing makeup, and leaves the skin feeling lightly hydrated rather than stripped of moisture. Some reviewers have noted that it has an odd smell, though they were not sure if they had gotten an unusual batch.
Whatever it is, the efficacy of the Simple Micellar Cleansing Water has been acknowledged to be on par with that of some higher-end brands. Considering its much lower price, it’s definitely worth a try.
Simple Micellar Cleansing Water retails for S$16.90 (200 ml) at Watsons.
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Bior� Micellar Cleansing Water

Aside from being lightweight and hydrating as most micellar waters go, the Bior�’s Micellar Cleansing Water is also made with natural mineral water from the Japanese Alps, enhanced with Watery Micellar Technology.
The watery formula lifts makeup and dirt effectively from pores for a clean and refreshed feeling that isn’t sticky. Plus, it is non-comedogenic and free from alcohol, fragrance, artificial colouring, and oils.
Bior� Micellar Cleansing Water retails for S$18.90 at all leading pharmacies, and super/hypermarkets.
Featured image credit: @bifestasg on Instagram and Daily Vanity
