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What is micellar water?
Micellar water is a popular facial cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. It is beneficial for preventing the skin's natural oils from being stripped away, making it suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. It can also help keep the skin clear for individuals with oily skin, as it cleans without over-drying or using harsh chemicals. It originated in France and is made with purified water, moisturizers, and mild surfactants. Unlike traditional facial cleansers, micellar water is gentle and does not contain harsh chemicals or alcohol, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
The name "micellar" comes from the collection of molecules that form in the water, creating tiny microscopic bubbles that feel like plain water. It is different from a toner, which focuses more on skin hydration and may contain other ingredients like alpha or beta hydroxy acids for anti-aging or anti-acne purposes. Famous micellar water products for adults include Sensibio H2O Micellar Water by Bioderma and Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water.
Why would my baby need micellar water?
I actually never used micellar water for myself before as I already have my favorite oil-based makeup remover and didn't think micellar water was tough enough for my oily skin. However, when researching how to wash sunscreen off a baby's face (check out my review of Aveeno baby sunscreen and stick), I discovered the surprising advantages of using micellar water for my little one.
Turns out the reason why I didn't use micellar water - it being too gentle to my skin - becomes the exact advantage when it comes to cleansing a baby's delicate skin. Parents have found that traditional baby shampoo and body wash can remove baby sunscreen, but they highly appreciate micellar water as the go-to solution for quick and effective cleansing. It excels at removing thick sunscreen, dirt, sweat, and excess oil that accumulates on your baby's face during outdoor activities or on days when a full bath isn't possible. No rinse is required.
Furthermore, micellar water has proven to be particularly useful in caring for the diaper area, helping to prevent diaper rash and keeping your baby comfortable and clean.
So, although micellar water may not have been your first choice for yourself, it has become a trusted and gentle option for parents seeking an efficient and safe way to cleanse their baby's sensitive skin from outdoor debris and sunscreen residue. Its mild yet effective formula makes it a go-to solution for keeping your little one fresh and comfortable between baths and diaper changes.
What baby micellar water products are popular?
Two products really jumped out when I did my research.
Both products, Mustela and Bioderma, have received high ratings on Amazon, indicating their effectiveness and popularity among users. Mustela boasts an impressive 4.7/5.0 score with over 6,400 ratings, while Bioderma has also earned a respectable 4.5/5.0 score from over 700 ratings. Both options are scented micellar waters designed specifically for gentle and effective cleansing of babies' and children's delicate skin.
In terms of pricing, Bioderma holds an advantage as it is more affordable than Mustela, and many users praise its value for money. On the other hand, Mustela appears to be more popular on Amazon, likely due to its higher number of ratings and slightly superior rating.
To make an informed decision, I recommend purchasing small sizes of each product to try them out first. This way, you can evaluate their performance and determine which one best suits your baby's skin and meets your preferences. Once you have assessed their suitability, you can confidently invest in larger sizes of the product that works best for your needs.