An era of liquid eyeliner, and far too much powder, 2013 saw me ending most evenings scrubbing at my face with a make-up wipe. But then Garnier Micellar Water came on the scene, and I promptly ditched the disposable wipes and alcohol-filled eye make-up removers for this far gentler alternative that’s been designed with sensitive skin in mind.
Clearly, a lot has changed since 2013. But while you definitely wont find me donning a matte coral lipstick anytime soon, Garnier Micellar Water remains one of the best cleansers in my bathroom cabinet. It’s the big bottle that I reach for every evening when I want to quickly and easily remove any SPF, make-up, or daily grime from my face, and reveal a cleansed and refreshed base underneath.
The dermatologically tested formula is essentially just purified, demineralised water that’s been suspended with tiny particles called “micelles” that soak up dirt, oil, and makeup. With a simple swipe of a cotton pad, these impurities are wiped away — without the need for rinsing with unfiltered water from the tap. The only other real ingredient of note in the formula is moisturising Botanical Glycerin — which is what leaves the skin looking so soft, smooth, and hydrated.
A truly multi-tasking product, Garnier Micellar Water not only plays a key role as the first step in my double cleansing routine — but also doubles up as a make-up brush cleaner, gentle toner, and slip solution for transforming eyeshadows into liquid eyeliners. Simple and effective, the original formula is my absolute ride-or-die. (And I’m not alone — it’s a family favourite in the Drew Barrymore household, too!),
But if you’ve got more specific skincare needs or requirements, you might prefer some of the slightly more targeted variations — like one that’s enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing aloe vera for maximum re-plumping, or the version with brightening rose water for combatting dullness. Whatever bottle you choose, just be sure to swap the disposable cotton pads for some reusable (and machine-washable!) alternatives to keep your skincare regime as sustainable as possible.
So, please consider this my plea to the Garnier Gods to never stop making their magical micellar water. Because — let’s face it — after an evening where lots of alcohol is consumed, the chances of us actually removing our make-up before bed are nonexistent if it involves fully rinsing our faces.