Micellar Water Buying Guide - Truth Over Toxins
Our Micellar Water Buying Guide is part of our a new Truth Over Toxins Series.
Did you know that the largest organ in your body is your skin?
All products you put on your skin absorb into your body! So we believe that everyone should read the label. So we've created this in-depth Micellar Water Buying Guide so you can see what is not only in our Micellar Water, but what is in our competitors.
The truth may shock you!
Here is a handy Micellar Water Buying Guide - Truth Over Toxins PDF version as well.
Micellar Water Buying Guide
|
Brand / Product Name |
Full Ingredients |
Concerns |
Cleanliness Rating ( 5 = most clean & 1 = most harmful ) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water |
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Poloxamer 184, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium EDTA, Niacinamide, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, BHT, Ceramide NP, Phenoxyethanol, Ceramide AP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide EOP |
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) - high concern; a preservative banned in the EU (suspected carcinogen). Also linked to allergic reactions. [beuc.eu] BHT - synthetic antioxidant preservative. BHT is an endocrine disruptor and has caused thyroid and developmental changes in animal studies [ewg.org] Phenoxyethanol - potential irritant [EWG] |
💜 (1) |
|
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water (All-in-1, Original) |
Aqua/Water, Hexylene Glycol, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium EDTA, Poloxamer 184, Polyaminopropyl |
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) - high concern; a preservative banned in the EU (suspected carcinogen). Also linked to allergic reactions. [beuc.eu] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
L’Oréal Micellar Cleansing Water (Complete Cleanser) |
Aqua/Water, Hexylene Glycol, Glycerin, Poloxamer 184, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide |
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) - high concern; a preservative banned in the EU (suspected carcinogen). Also linked to allergic reactions. [beuc.eu] BHT - synthetic antioxidant preservative. BHT is an endocrine disruptor and has caused thyroid and developmental changes in animal studies [ewg.org] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
Merle Norman Micellar Water Makeup Remover |
Water, PEG-12, Polysorbate 20, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben |
Methylparaben - hormone disruptor [EWG] Phenoxyethanol - potential irritant [EWG] Propylene Glycol - potential skin irritant [EWG] PEG - PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a possible human carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen and developmental toxicant [David Suzuki Foundation] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Micellar Water (Ultra) |
Aqua/Water, Hexylene Glycol, Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Dihydrocholeth-30, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Parfum/Fragrance |
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) - high concern; a preservative banned in the EU (suspected carcinogen). Also linked to allergic reactions. [beuc.eu] Fragrance - strong evidence human immune toxicant or allergen. [EWG] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
Vichy Pureté Thermale Mineral Micellar Water (Sensitive Skin) |
Aqua/Water, Hexylene Glycol, Glycerin, BHT, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Sodium Chloride, Poloxamer 184, Disodium EDTA, Panthenol, Myrtrimonium Bromide, Parfum/Fragrance |
Myrtrimonium Bromide - preservative potentially associated with endocrine disruption, and potential skin irritant. [EWG] BHT - synthetic antioxidant preservative. BHT is an endocrine disruptor and has caused thyroid and developmental changes in animal studies [ewg.org] Fragrance - strong evidence human immune toxicant or allergen. [EWG] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
Avène Eau Thermale Micellar Lotion (Cleanser & Makeup Remover) |
Avène Thermal Spring Water (Avene Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Cetrimonium Bromide, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance (Parfum), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium Chloride |
Cetrimonium Bromide - strong evidence human skin toxicant or allergen [EWG] Fragrance - strong evidence human immune toxicant or allergen. [EWG] PEG - PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a possible human carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen and developmental toxicant [David Suzuki Foundation] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
Origins Dr. Weil Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Micellar Cleanser |
Water/Aqua, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil, Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense) Oil, Limonene, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Lycium Chinense (Goji Berry) Fruit Extract, Fuscoporia Obliqua (Chaga Mushroom) Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Silybum Marianum (Milk Thistle) Fruit Extract, Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) Leaf Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi Mushroom) Extract, Trehalose, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hypnea Musciformis (Algae) Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Polysorbate 20, Gelidiella Acerosa Extract, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Yeast Extract, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Cellulose, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Phenoxyethanol |
Limonene - a fragrance terpene from natural oils; can oxidize and cause contact allergies [EWG] Linalool - Known human allergen especially for sensitive skin. [EWG] Cetrimonium Chloride - strong evidence human skin toxicant or allergen [EWG] Phenoxyethanol - potential irritant [EWG] |
💜💜 (2) |
|
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Micellar Water (Hydrating) |
Water, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, PEG-8, Poloxamer 407, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA, Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract, Fragrance |
Fragrance - strong evidence human immune toxicant or allergen. [EWG] PEG - PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a possible human carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen and developmental toxicant [David Suzuki Foundation] |
💜💜💜 (3) |
|
Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water |
Water (Aqua), Propanediol, Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Benzoate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Citric Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate |
Cetrimonium Chloride - strong evidence human skin toxicant or allergen [EWG] Tocopheryl Acetate - strong evidence human skin toxicant or allergen [EWG] |
💜💜💜 (3) |
|
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water (Sensitive Skin) |
Water (Aqua), PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Mannitol, Xylitol, Rhamnose, Fructooligosaccharides, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Cetrimonium Bromide |
Cetrimonium Bromide - strong evidence human skin toxicant or allergen [EWG] Propylene Glycol - synthetic solvent that may irritate very sensitive skin [EWG] PEG - PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a possible human carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen and developmental toxicant [David Suzuki Foundation] |
💜💜💜 (3) |
|
Mary Kay Micellar Water |
Water/Eau, Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin |
PEG-8 Dimethicone - a silicone-based polymer; considered safe but not naturally derived. [EWG] |
💜💜💜💜 (4) |
|
Drunk Elephant E-Rase Milki Micellar Water |
Water/Aqua, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Propanediol, C15-19 Alkane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Heptyl Undecylenate, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Seed Oil, Ximenia Americana Seed Oil, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin |
Phenoxyethanol - potential irritant [EWG] Ethylhexylglycerin - irritation skin, eyes, or lungs [EWG] Potassium Sorbate - strong evidence skin toxicant or allergen per Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - [EWG] |
💜💜💜💜 (4) |
|
Burt’s Bees Micellar Cleansing Water (with Coconut & Lotus Water) |
Water, Pentylene Glycol, Honey Extract, Callitris Columellaris (White Cypress) Leaf/Twig Oil, Lactic Acid, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene . |
Denatured Alcohol - can excessively dry out skin and disrupt the skin barrier leading to irritation [healthline.com] Limonene - a fragrance terpene from natural oils; can oxidize and cause contact allergies [EWG] |
💜💜💜💜 (4) |
|
Eucerin DermatoCLEAN [Hyaluron] 3-in-1 Micellar Water |
Aqua/Water, Poloxamer 124, Glyceryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Decyl Glucoside, Arginine HCl, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol |
Phenoxyethanol - potential irritant [EWG] |
💜💜💜💜 (4) |
|
Distilled Water, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil, Witch Hazel (Alcohol-free), Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Leucidal Liquid (Radish Root Fermented) |
None. All ingredients are naturally derived and chosen for safety. |
💜💜💜💜💜 (5) Exceptionally clean formula and ingredient you can easily read |
Micellar Water Introduction
Micellar water is a popular skincare product known for its gentle cleansing capabilities, ideal for removing makeup, dirt, and impurities without harsh chemicals. It simplifies your routine, leaving your skin fresh and clean.
What is Micellar Water?
Understanding micellar water is key to enhancing your natural skincare routine. It contains micelles - tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water - that attract dirt, oil, and makeup, cleansing your skin gently and effectively.
Benefits of Using Micellar Water
Incorporating micellar water into your natural skincare regimen offers numerous benefits:
- Gentle cleansing suitable for sensitive skin
- Effective makeup removal without rubbing
- Hydrating and balancing
- No-rinse convenience
Understanding Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type helps in selecting appropriate natural skincare products:
- Normal: Balanced hydration
- Dry: Requires extra moisturizing ingredients
- Oily/Combination: Balancing formulas to control excess oil
- Sensitive: Avoids fragrances, alcohol, and harsh preservatives
Key Ingredients to Look For
Choosing the right ingredients ensures effective, safe natural skincare:
- Distilled water
- Organic oils (Jojoba, Coconut)
- Alcohol-free Witch Hazel
- Natural humectants (substances that attract and retain moisture) like Glycerin
- Gentle, natural preservatives (Radish Root Ferment)
Ingredients to Avoid
Avoiding harmful ingredients protects your skin’s health and maintains the integrity of your natural skincare routine:
- Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB): Potential carcinogen and banned in the EU.
- PEG compounds: May contain harmful impurities like 1,4-dioxane, a carcinogen.
- Fragrances: Often contain hidden allergens, irritants, and can disrupt hormones.
- Harsh preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, BHT): Linked to allergic reactions, irritation, and potential hormone disruption.
- Drying alcohols: Can strip skin of moisture, causing irritation and dryness.
There are various ingredients to avoid in your natural skincare routine due to potential health risks. Here are some published studies and credible sources that support these concerns [20 Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid by Organic Apoteke]
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB):
- A study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology reported that PHMB induced a severe inflammatory response and cytotoxicity through endoplasmic reticulum stress. [ScienceDirect]
-
Health Canada's assessment concluded that PHMB is harmful to human health when inhaled or applied to the skin in high concentrations, potentially affecting lung function and causing skin inflammation. [Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) on Canada.ca]
PEG Compounds:
-
The David Suzuki Foundation highlights that PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a possible human carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen and developmental toxicant. [David Suzuki Foundation]
Fragrances:
-
A study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that certain fragrance ingredients can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone function.
Phenoxyethanol:
-
Healthline reports cases where phenoxyethanol caused hives and anaphylaxis in individuals using products containing this chemical, indicating potential for severe allergic reactions. [Healthline]
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene):
-
According to Organic Apoteke, studies have shown that BHT can cause liver and kidney damage, as well as other toxic effects. [Organic Apoteke]
Drying Alcohols:
-
A publication in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology discusses how short-chain alcohols like ethanol can disrupt the skin barrier function, leading to dryness and irritation.
These studies underscore the importance of carefully selecting skincare products free from harmful ingredients to maintain optimal health and wellness.
Popular Micellar Waters & Their Concerns
Many popular brands compromise your natural skincare routine due to concerning ingredients:
- Garnier & L’Oréal: Contain PHMB, a suspected carcinogen.
- Bioderma & Avène: Use PEG-based ingredients.
- La Roche-Posay & Vichy: Contain BHT and fragrance allergens.
Why Mama Bear’s Naturals Micellar Water Stands Out
Mama Bear’s Naturals Micellar Water enhances your natural skincare routine by using pure, organic ingredients free from toxins, preservatives, or fragrances. Unlike competitors, our natural skincare product is safe, hypoallergenic, and deeply nourishing, providing peace of mind for your family’s skin health.
Mama Bear’s Naturals Ingredients & Their Benefits
Mama Bear’s Naturals Micellar Water features natural skincare ingredients that nourish your skin:
- Organic Jojoba Oil: Balances and moisturizes
- Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil: Gently removes impurities
- Witch Hazel (Alcohol-Free): Calms and tones without irritation
- Organic Vegetable Glycerin: Deep hydration
- Leucidal Liquid (Radish Root Ferment): Natural preservation
Building Your Routine
Enhance your daily natural skincare routine by using micellar water morning and evening to refresh, cleanse, and hydrate your skin effectively.
Tips for Buying the Best Micellar Water
Optimize your natural skincare choices by:
- Reading labels carefully
- Avoiding fragrances, parabens, and harsh preservatives
- Selecting products with clear, simple ingredient lists
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need to rinse after using micellar water?
A: Quality Micellar Waters like Mama Bear’s Naturals don't require rinsing. Because there are NO toxins it nourishes your skin.
Q: Is micellar water suitable for sensitive skin?
A: Yes, especially Mama Bear’s Naturals, formulated specifically for gentle care.
Glossary
- Micelle: A molecule cluster effective at trapping and lifting away impurities
- Hypoallergenic: Less likely to cause allergic reactions
Research
- "Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Ingredients." Bioderma, 2024.
- "Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water Ingredients." Garnier USA, 2024.
- "Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water Ingredients." Simple Skincare, 2024.
- "La Roche-Posay Toleriane Micellar Water Ultra Ingredients." La Roche-Posay, 2024.
- "EWG Skin Deep Database." Environmental Working Group, 2024, www.ewg.org/skindeep.
- "PHMB Safety Concerns and EU Ban." European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), 2024.
- "Mama Bear’s Naturals - Natural Micellar Water." Mama Bear's Naturals, 2024, mamabearsnaturals.com/products/micellar-water.
- Varesano, A., Vineis, C., Aluigi, A., & Rombaldoni, F. (2011). Antimicrobial polymers for textile products. In A. Méndez-Vilas (Ed.), Science against microbial pathogens: Communicating current research and technological advances.
- Health Canada. (2024). Polyhexamethylenebiguanide (PHMB). Retrieved from
- David Suzuki Foundation. (n.d.). The Dirty Dozen: PEG Compounds and their contaminants. Retrieved from
- Healthline. (2019). Phenoxyethanol in Cosmetics: Is it Safe?.
- Organic Apoteke. (2020). 20 Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid.
- Loden, M. (2003). The clinical benefit of moisturizers. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 6(10), 27-32.
Here is a handy Micellar Water Buying Guide - Truth Over Toxins PDF version as well.