Micellar Cleansing Water
Micellar Cleansing Water
Product Description
A gentle, no-rinse micellar cleansing water formulated with 93% natural ingredients and enriched with soothing Cotton Extract. This French pharmacy favorite effectively removes makeup, cleanses, and hydrates dry and sensitive skin in one simple step without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier.
โจ Texture & Feel
Micelle Technology
Microscopic oil molecules act like magnets to capture and lift away dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing.
Cotton Extract
Enriched with Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Root Extract known for its soothing and softening properties on sensitive skin.
No-Rinse Formula
Simply apply with a cotton pad - no water needed. Perfect for quick cleansing on-the-go or lazy skincare nights.
Barrier-Friendly
Alcohol-free formula respects your skin's natural protective barrier while effectively removing impurities.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like Bioderma Sensibio or fragrance-free Garnier.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Main ingredients like glycerin and panthenol have 0 comedogenic rating, making this unlikely to clog pores.
Despite being marketed for sensitive skin, this formula contains parfum. Patch test first if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Formula has been tested by dermatologists for safety and tolerance on sensitive skin types.
Gentle enough for use around the delicate eye area. Hold cotton pad over closed eyes for a few seconds before gently wiping.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฒ Poloxamer 184 Proven
A synthetic polymer that forms the core of micelle technology. Creates microscopic cleansing droplets that attract and trap dirt, oil, and makeup like a magnet, allowing for effective cleansing without harsh rubbing.
- Function: Mild surfactant and micelle-forming agent
- Safety: Also used in contact lens solutions for its gentle cleansing properties
- Benefit: Effectively removes makeup while being gentle on skin and eyes
๐ง Glycerin 3-5% Proven
A powerful humectant and skin-identical ingredient that attracts moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the outer skin hydrated. Also helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy state.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Will not clog pores
- Irritancy Rating: 0 - Non-irritating
- Benefits: Hydration, barrier protection, prevents skin from feeling tight after cleansing
๐ฟ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Proven
A beloved skincare ingredient also known as Pro-Vitamin B5. Converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, providing deep moisturization and helping the skin produce healthy lipids for a stronger barrier.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory, skin-protecting, wound-healing
- Research: Studies show panthenol improves skin hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss
๐พ Decyl Glucoside Gentle
A plant-derived (coconut or palm kernel oil + glucose) surfactant known for its exceptional mildness. Provides gentle cleansing action while being biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Source: Vegetable origin (coconut/palm kernel oil and glucose)
- Properties: Mild foaming, readily biodegradable
- Benefit: Cleanses without stripping the skin's natural oils
๐ธ Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Root Extract Soothing
The star botanical ingredient in this formula. Cotton root extract is known for its softening and calming properties, making it particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.
- Traditional Use: Used for centuries for its soothing properties
- Benefits: Softening, calming, helps reduce skin sensitivity
- Ideal For: Reactive, dry, and easily irritated skin
โ ๏ธ Polysorbate 20 Caution
An emulsifier that helps oil and water mix together. While gentle for most skin types, it can be problematic for those with fungal acne as it can feed Malassezia yeast.
- Function: Emulsifier and mild surfactant
- Source: Derived from sorbitan and lauric acid (often from coconut)
- Concern: Not fungal acne safe - structure can be metabolized by Malassezia
14 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Benzoate, Chlorphenesin, Citric Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Root Extract, Potassium Sorbate
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the first step in your routine to remove makeup and impurities. Can be used alone for light cleansing or followed by a water-based cleanser for thorough double cleansing.
๐ How to Use
Shake Well
Give the bottle a gentle shake before use to ensure the micelles are evenly distributed throughout the formula.
Saturate Cotton Pad
Pour a generous amount of micellar water onto a cotton pad until it's fully saturated but not dripping.
Gently Wipe Face
Sweep the cotton pad across your face, eyes, and lips in gentle motions. For eye makeup, hold the pad over closed eyes for 5-10 seconds before wiping.
Repeat If Needed
Use additional cotton pads until the pad comes away clean. No rinsing required - the formula leaves skin clean and refreshed.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have dry or sensitive skin that reacts to harsh cleansers
- You want a quick, no-rinse makeup remover
- You prefer French pharmacy skincare at an affordable price
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
- You want a travel-friendly cleanser (no water needed)
- You appreciate gentle, vegan formulas
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrance/parfum
- You wear heavy waterproof makeup daily
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You need a deep-cleansing product for very oily skin
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Formulated specifically for dry skin. Glycerin and panthenol provide hydration while cotton extract soothes without stripping moisture.
Dermatologically tested and alcohol-free. However, contains fragrance - patch test if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Works well across different face zones. Gentle enough for dry areas while effectively cleansing oilier zones.
May feel too hydrating for very oily skin. Consider the Evoluderm formula for combination/oily skin with Zinc PCA instead.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) but NOT fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20. Regular acne-prone skin should be fine.
๐ Results Timeline
Clean, Refreshed Skin
Makeup, dirt, and impurities are effectively removed. Skin feels clean without that tight, stripped feeling that harsh cleansers cause.
95% noticed immediate cleansingImproved Skin Comfort
Regular use helps maintain a healthy skin barrier. Dryness and sensitivity may start to improve as skin is no longer over-stripped.
80% reported less skin tightnessHealthier Skin Barrier
Consistent gentle cleansing supports a stronger moisture barrier. Skin appears more hydrated, calm, and balanced overall.
70% noticed improved skin textureโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Excellent value for money - affordable French pharmacy quality
- Effectively removes everyday makeup without rubbing
- Leaves skin feeling clean and hydrated, not stripped
- 93% natural ingredients with vegan formula
- No-rinse formula perfect for travel or lazy nights
- Large 500ml bottle lasts several months
- Gentle enough for use around sensitive eye area
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
โ Criticized
- Contains fragrance despite being marketed for sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20
- May struggle with heavy waterproof makeup
- Some users feel a slight film after use
- Packaging can arrive damaged from some sellers
- Less effective than Bioderma on stubborn makeup
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
America's #1 micellar water. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. Similar gentle cleansing but without the cotton extract. Better option for sensitive skin due to no fragrance.
UK drugstore favorite with a minimal ingredient list. No fragrance, no harsh chemicals. Contains vitamins B3 and C. Great budget alternative for sensitive skin.
Another French pharmacy option with thermal spring water. Slightly more effective on makeup but also contains fragrance. Similar hydrating feel after use.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Evoluderm Micellar Water (This Product)
~$12Bioderma Sensibio H2O
~$15-24Garnier Micellar Water (Pink)
~$10-12La Roche-Posay Micellar Ultra
~$15๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on packaging to confirm.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
Clear plastic bottle with flip-top cap. Transparent design allows you to monitor product level.
500ml bottle exceeds airline liquid limits. Consider decanting into a travel bottle under 100ml, or purchase the smaller 100ml travel size.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Evoluderm Micellar Water is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. All 14 ingredients are generally recognized as safe for topical use. However, if you have specific concerns, consult with your healthcare provider.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like Bioderma Sensibio H2O or Garnier Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin, both of which are fungal acne safe.
Yes, micellar water is a gentle cleansing product that can be used before any active ingredients. Use it as the first step to remove makeup and impurities, then follow with your retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants as directed. Since this formula doesn't contain any actives, there are no interaction concerns.
This product is specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin types. It's excellent for those who find other cleansers too stripping or harsh. It also works well for combination skin. However, it may not be ideal for very oily skin (consider the Evoluderm formula for oily/combination skin instead) or those with fungal acne.
As a cleansing product, you'll notice immediate results - clean, refreshed skin without the tight, stripped feeling. For benefits like improved skin comfort and a healthier moisture barrier, most users report noticeable improvements within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. After 4+ weeks, skin typically appears more balanced and hydrated.
Micellar water is used as the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Use it to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities before any other products. You can use it alone for a quick cleanse, or follow with a water-based cleanser for a thorough double cleanse. After cleansing, proceed with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (daytime).
No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. Key ingredients like glycerin and panthenol have a comedogenic rating of 0. The formula is also alcohol-free and paraben-free. However, as with any product, individual reactions can vary, so patch testing is recommended if you're prone to breakouts.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means you should use it within 12 months of first opening the bottle. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap closed when not in use to maintain product integrity. With the 500ml size and daily use, most people finish the bottle well within this timeframe.
Verdict: Evoluderm Micellar Cleansing Water offers excellent value as an affordable French pharmacy micellar water. With its 93% natural ingredients, cotton extract for soothing, and effective micelle technology, it delivers gentle yet thorough cleansing for dry and sensitive skin. The formula is pregnancy-safe, vegan, and leaves skin feeling hydrated rather than stripped. However, the inclusion of fragrance in a product marketed for sensitive skin, and the presence of Polysorbate 20 (making it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers), prevent it from achieving a perfect score. If you're looking for a budget-friendly micellar water and don't have fragrance sensitivities or fungal acne concerns, this is a solid choice. For completely fragrance-free options or fungal acne-safe formulas, consider Bioderma Sensibio or Garnier Micellar Water instead.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Poloxamer 184
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|