Micellar Water Ultra Reactive Skin
Micellar Water Ultra Reactive Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, no-rinse micellar cleansing water formulated with 5% glycerin and ultra-mild poloxamer surfactants for reactive, redness-prone skin. Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, this fragrance-free French pharmacy staple removes 98% of foundation in a single cotton pass while soothing tightness and reducing redness.
Glyco-Micellar Technology
Combines micelle cleansing power with 5% glycerin for a gentler glide that reduces friction and cotton-pad irritation on reactive skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGlyco-Micellar Technology
Combines micelle cleansing power with 5% glycerin for a gentler glide that reduces friction and cotton-pad irritation on reactive skin.
Contact Lens-Safe Surfactants
Uses Poloxamer 124 and 184, the same mild cleansing agents found in contact lens solutions, making it safe for sensitive eyes.
Physiological pH Formula
Formulated to match the skin's natural pH level, minimizing disruption to the acid mantle and preventing tightness after cleansing.
Anti-Tightness & Anti-Redness
Specifically designed to calm reactive skin, reducing sensations of tightness and visible redness during and after makeup removal.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 80, which may feed Malassezia yeast. As a rinse-off/wipe-off product with brief skin contact, risk is lower than leave-on products, but those with active fungal acne should exercise caution.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. No pore-clogging oils, waxes, or fatty alcohols. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Ophthalmologist tested. Poloxamer surfactants are the same used in contact lens solutions. Safe for eye-area use including for contact lens wearers.
Free from the most common allergens, fragrances, parabens, soap, and colorants. Tested on reactive skin under dermatological control.
Contains BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) as a trace-level antioxidant preservative. Considered safe at cosmetic concentrations by both the FDA and EU. Was recently restricted in the UK (April 2024).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 5%Proven
A skin-identical moisturizing ingredient that draws water into the skin. At 5%, this is the highest glycerin concentration in the La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra range, specifically chosen for reactive skin comfort.
- Function: Humectant, moisturizer, skin-identical ingredient
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores
- Irritancy Rating: 0 — non-irritating
- Evidence: Effective from as low as 3%, with increased benefits at higher concentrations for dry and compromised skin
Poloxamer 184 <5%Proven
A synthetic polymer used as a mild cleansing agent. Its unique molecular structure has an oil-loving center surrounded by water-loving parts, enabling it to form micelles that effectively trap dirt and makeup.
- Function: Surfactant, cleansing agent, emulsifier
- Notable: Also used in contact lens solutions due to its exceptional mildness
- Mechanism: Forms micelles (ball-shaped clusters) that encapsulate oil, dirt, and makeup for gentle removal
Poloxamer 124 <5%Proven
A complementary mild cleansing agent that works alongside Poloxamer 184 to provide thorough yet gentle cleansing. Together, these poloxamers form the core micellar cleansing system.
- Function: Surfactant, cleansing agent, emulsifier
- Benefit: Ultra-mild cleansing that does not strip or disrupt the skin barrier
PEG-6 & PEG-7 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides <3%Proven
Water-loving emulsifiers that help solubilize oil-based impurities and makeup. They provide a pleasant skin feel and are commonly used in micellar cleansing waters for their gentle solubilizing properties.
- Function: Emulsifier, solubilizer, cleansing agent
- Benefit: Helps dissolve and lift away oil-soluble dirt and makeup residues
Myrtrimonium Bromide <0.5%Functional
A quaternary ammonium compound used as a preservative and mild antimicrobial agent. Keeps the product stable and free from microbial contamination.
- Function: Preservative, antimicrobial
- Safety: Used at very low concentrations within established safe limits
10 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, PEG-7 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Poloxamer 124, Poloxamer 184, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Polysorbate 80, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Myrtrimonium Bromide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the very first step in your PM routine to remove makeup and impurities. Can also replace your morning cleanser for a gentler start to the day. No rinsing required, but you may follow with water if preferred.
How to use
HOW TO USESaturate a Cotton Pad
Pour a generous amount of micellar water onto a soft cotton pad until it is fully saturated. This ensures enough product for gentle cleansing without excess friction.
Gently Wipe Face, Eyes & Lips
Glide the cotton pad gently across your face, eyes, and lips. Avoid rubbing — let the micelles do the work of lifting dirt and makeup. Use a separate pad for your eye area.
Repeat Until Clean
Use a fresh cotton pad and repeat until the pad comes away clean. For heavy or waterproof makeup, consider an oil-based first cleanse before this step.
No Rinse Needed
Leave on without rinsing. The formula is designed to be left on the skin. Follow with the rest of your skincare routine. Optional: rinse with lukewarm water if you prefer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have reactive skin prone to redness, tightness, or stinging
- You wear contact lenses and need an eye-safe makeup remover
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient cleanser
- You prefer a no-rinse, no-water cleansing routine
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You want a gentle morning cleanse without a full face wash
- You use retinol and need a non-stripping cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy or waterproof makeup daily (may need double cleansing)
- You have active fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 80)
- You prefer a product that lathers or foams
- You dislike the slightly tacky feel some micellar waters leave
- You need a deep-cleansing product for very oily skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for this skin type. Fragrance-free, physiological pH, and ultra-mild surfactants minimize irritation and redness.
5% glycerin provides hydration during cleansing. Non-stripping formula leaves skin comfortable, not tight or dry.
Works well for daily cleansing. The slightly dewy finish may feel unnecessary for those without sensitivity concerns.
The 5% glycerin may feel too rich for very oily skin. Consider the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water instead, which targets excess sebum.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. However, contains Polysorbate 80 which may be a concern for fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
2–3 MONTHSClean, Comfortable Skin
Makeup, dirt, and impurities are removed without tightness or stinging. Skin feels hydrated and soothed right after use.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Redness & Irritation
Switching from a harsher cleanser to this micellar water allows reactive skin to recover. Users report less baseline redness and fewer tight, stinging episodes.
78% noticed within 2 weeksCalmer, More Resilient Skin
Consistent use with a gentle routine helps restore the skin barrier. Skin becomes less reactive to environmental triggers and products.
65% noticed within 1 monthImproved Overall Skin Comfort
Long-term users report that their skin tolerates other products better. The gentle cleansing routine supports overall skin health and barrier integrity.
58% noticed long-term improvementRatings by platform
30K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — does not sting, burn, or cause redness even on very reactive skin
- Fragrance-free, minimal 10-ingredient formula reduces risk of irritation
- Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- 5% glycerin leaves skin hydrated and comfortable after use
- No rinsing required — perfect for travel or lazy evenings
- Affordable price point for a dermatologist-recommended French pharmacy brand
- Excellent as a gentle morning cleanser replacement
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Weakest makeup removal power in the Ultra range — struggles with waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation
- Can leave a slightly tacky or filmy residue on skin
- May require 4–5 cotton pads for full makeup removal
- Contains Polysorbate 80 (potential fungal acne trigger)
- Contains BHT, which some consumers prefer to avoid
- No pump dispenser — can be messy to pour
- May feel too rich or dewy for oily skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar micellar technology at nearly half the price. Contains fragrance and propylene glycol, so not ideal for the most reactive skin. Slightly better at removing heavy makeup.
Another minimal-ingredient micellar water that is fragrance-free and gentle. Uses different surfactant system (no poloxamers). Less hydrating without the 5% glycerin boost.
Another French pharmacy brand formulated for sensitive skin with thermal spring water. Slightly milkier texture. Both are fragrance-free and dermatologist tested, but different surfactant systems.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Plastic flip-top bottle (400ml). No pump — pour directly onto cotton pad.
The 400ml bottle exceeds airline carry-on limits (100ml). Available in a 100ml travel size. Decant into a travel bottle for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This micellar water contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its minimal 10-ingredient formula consists only of water, glycerin, mild surfactants, and preservatives — all considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Caution is advised. The formula contains Polysorbate 80, which is a known potential trigger for Malassezia (fungal acne). However, since this is a wash-off/wipe-off product with very brief skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower than with leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, consider Bioderma Sensibio H2O instead, which is fully fungal acne safe. If you do use this product, following up with a gentle rinse may help minimize any concerns.
Yes. This micellar water is a cleanser with a neutral, physiological pH and contains no active ingredients that would interact with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. In fact, its ultra-gentle formula makes it an ideal cleanser to pair with potent actives, as it removes makeup and impurities without stripping or sensitizing the skin. Many users specifically choose this product as their cleanser when using retinol or prescription treatments like tretinoin.
This product is specifically formulated for reactive and sensitive skin that is prone to redness, tightness, and stinging. It is also excellent for dry skin thanks to its 5% glycerin content. It works well for normal and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, oil-free). It may feel too rich for very oily skin — in that case, consider the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water formulated for oily skin instead.
You will see immediate results in terms of clean, comfortable, hydrated skin after each use. For improvements in baseline redness and skin reactivity, most users report noticeable changes within 1–2 weeks of switching to this gentler cleanser. For overall skin barrier improvement and reduced sensitivity, expect to see cumulative benefits over 1–3 months of consistent use.
Use it as the very first step in your routine — before any other cleanser, toner, serum, or moisturizer. In the evening, use it to remove makeup and surface impurities. You can optionally follow with a water-based cleanser (double cleansing) if you wore heavy makeup. In the morning, you can use it as a gentle replacement for your regular cleanser. No rinsing is required.
No. This product is officially non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It is completely oil-free and contains no ingredients known to clog pores. Glycerin (the primary active ingredient) has a comedogenic rating of 0. The surfactants used (poloxamers) are also non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 400ml bottle typically lasts 2–4 months with daily use (depending on how much makeup you wear and how many cotton pads you use per session). Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra Reactive Skin is one of the gentlest micellar waters available, earning its place as a French pharmacy staple for reactive, redness-prone skin. The minimal 10-ingredient, fragrance-free formula with 5% glycerin and contact lens-grade poloxamer surfactants delivers a truly non-irritating cleansing experience. It excels as a morning cleanser and light makeup remover, though those wearing heavy or waterproof makeup may need to double cleanse. The main trade-off is cleansing power for gentleness — and for reactive skin, that is the right trade-off to make. A reliable, dermatologist-backed choice at a fair price point.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-7 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 124
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Poloxamer 184
Emulsifying
|
|