Which make-up remover is right for sensitive skin?

The make-up removal routine is often associated with the removal of make-up residue, but it's essential to understand that even without visible make-up, our skin is exposed to a variety of impurities throughout the day. Regular make-up removal is an integral part of an effective skincare routine, helping to maintain healthy, glowing skin. In this article, we'll explore the importance of make-up removal, the difference between micellar waters and a make-up remover, reasons not to remove make-up with micellar water alone, and options for make-up removers and cleansers suitable for sensitive skin.

 

What's the difference between micellar water and make-up remover?

• Micellar water

This innovative solution combines the cleansing properties of water with micelles, small surfactant molecules that act like magnets to attract and remove impurities, make-up and residues from the skin.

Micellar water is mainly composed of water, sometimes enriched with moisturizing ingredients such ashyaluronic acid, soothing plant extracts or skin-boosting vitamins.

Micelles are the key players in micellar water. They are small amphiphilic particles, which means they have both a hydrophilic (water-loving) and a lipophilic (fat-loving) part. This duality enables micelles to attract and trap impurities, oils and make-up, keeping them suspended in water.

To use micellar water, simply apply it to a cotton pad or make-up remover wipe, then sweep gently over the face. The micelles work to dissolve make-up and impurities.

One of the most appreciated features of micellar water is its gentleness. It is often considered a less abrasive option than some traditional make-up removers, making it a popular choice for people with sensitive skin.

However, it's important to note that while micellar make-up removal water is effective for removing light make-up and impurities, it may not be as effective for more stubborn make-up or situations where the skin is heavily exposed to pollution. In such cases, it may be advisable to complete the process with a cleanser to ensure perfectly clean skin. 

We recommend rinsing off the micellar water to rid the skin of surfactants (even if they are natural).

In short, micellar cleansing water is a versatile, gentle make-up removal solution suitable for a variety of skin types, especially for those who prefer simple, effective products in their skincare routine.

However, it is not a substitute for skin cleansing, which may be aimed at removing dead cells to stimulate cell regeneration and reduce imperfections.

• Traditional make-up removers

Traditional make-up removers, such as cleansing milks, cleansing oils, foaming gels and cleansing foams, work by using different formulations to dissolve and remove make-up, impurities and residues from the skin. Each type of make-up remover has its own properties and benefits, tailored to different skin types and individual preferences. Here's how some traditional make-up removers generally work:

Cleansing milk

Cleansing milks are gentle emulsions composed of oils, water and emollients. Some may also contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile.

Applied to dry skin, the cleansing milk dissolves make-up and impurities. Its creamy texture gently massages the face, providing a soothing experience.

Cleansing oil

Cleansing oils are mainly made from vegetable or mineral oils, often enriched with antioxidants and vitamins.

Make-up remover oil is applied to dry skin. It dissolves make-up residue, including waterproof make-up, then emulsifies on contact with water, making it easy to rinse off.

Foaming gel and facial cleansing foam 

Foaming gels and cleansing foams contain foaming agents, surfactants and sometimes mild exfoliants. Some gels may also have moisturizing properties.

These products are applied to damp skin. By creating a foam, they cleanse deeply, removing make-up and impurities. They are often recommended for oily skin.

Two-phase cleansers

These make-up removers are a combination of water and oil, forming two distinct phases in the bottle. Before use, the bottle is shaken to mix the two phases. This creates a solution capable of effectively dissolving even waterproof make-up, while leaving a light sensation on the skin.

Why not remove make-up and cleanse with micellar water, and why rinse?

Although micellar water is effective for removing make-up, it may not be sufficient for deep cleansing, especially if your skin is exposed to impurities such as air pollution, perspiration and skin product residues. Simply removing make-up with micellar water can leave residues of sebum, sweat and traces of make-up on the skin. Rinsing your face and using a cleanser after using micellar water is crucial to removing these residues and ensuring clean, regenerated skin.

Which cleanser for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin needs special attention when choosing make-up remover products. Cleansing milks are often recommended for sensitive skin, as they are gentle and nourishing. Opt for products specifically formulated for sensitive skin, avoiding irritating ingredients such as perfumes and dyes. Applying cleansing milk with gentle, circular movements removes make-up without damaging the skin.

 

Cleansing milk, gel foam or foam cleanser: Which is best for your skin?

The choice between cleansing milk, gel or foam often depends on skin type. Dry skin will benefit from a moisturizing cleansing milk, while oily skin may prefer an exfoliating gel to removeexcess sebum.

Tips for gently removing eye makeup

The delicate eye area requires special attention when removing make-up. Use a makeup remover specially designed for the eye contour area to gently remove makeup from lashes and around the eyes. Apply make-up remover carefully, using light circular movements to avoid irritation.

Adopt a skincare routine for beautiful skin

Proper make-up removal is an essential part of a complete beauty routine. Incorporate make-up removal into your daily skincare routine to maintain healthy, radiant skin. Complete your routine with cleansing products adapted to your skin type to maximize the benefits. Spend a few minutes each day looking after your skin, and you'll be rewarded with healthy-looking, radiant skin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular make-up removal, even in the absence of visible make-up, is crucial to maintaining healthy skin. Understanding the difference between micellar water and traditional make-up remover helps you make informed choices. Avoiding make-up removal with micellar water alone and rinsing the skin after use are important steps. Choose make-up removers adapted to your skin type, with a preference for cleansing milks for sensitive skin, gel foams for oily skin and cleansing foams for normal skin. By adopting a complete skincare routine, including make-up removal, you'll help maintain beautiful skin throughout your life.