Sensibio Micellar Face Cleansing Oil
Sensibio Micellar Face Cleansing Oil
Product Description
Product overview
The first ecobiological micellar cleansing oil that combines gentle cleansing with skin-nourishing care. Features innovative double-action micellar technology with an oil-to-milk texture that effortlessly removes waterproof makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while soothing and strengthening the skin barrier with Omega 3-6 and biomimetic amino acids.
Double-Action Micellar Technology
Inverted micelles release biomimetic amino acids to nourish skin, then reorganize with water to capture and wash away impurities.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDouble-Action Micellar Technology
Inverted micelles release biomimetic amino acids to nourish skin, then reorganize with water to capture and wash away impurities.
Oil-to-Milk Transformation
Luxurious oil texture transforms into a milky emulsion when water is added for effortless, frictionless cleansing.
Skin Barrier Support
Omega 3-6 from rapeseed and sunflower oils strengthen the skin barrier and provide lasting nourishment.
Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract
Golden algae extract soothes inflammation, provides antioxidant protection, and helps reduce UV-induced skin damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Rated non-comedogenic by the brand. As a rinse-off product, pore-clogging risk is minimal despite Ethylhexyl Palmitate content.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula tested under dermatological and ophthalmological supervision with excellent tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEthylhexyl PalmitateBase
The primary emollient base that gives this cleansing oil its luxurious, silky texture. This ester effectively dissolves makeup and sebum while providing a smooth, non-greasy feel during application.
- Function: Main oil base, emollient, texture enhancer
- Source: Derived from palmitic acid (palm or coconut oil)
- Benefits: Excellent at dissolving oil-based makeup and sunscreen
Rapeseed Seed OilNourishing
Cold-pressed from Brassica Campestris seeds, this lightweight oil is rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that closely mimic the skin's natural lipids for optimal nourishment.
- Omega Content: High in oleic acid (56-65%) and linoleic acid (18-24%)
- Benefits: Strengthens skin barrier, provides antioxidant protection
- Absorption: Lightweight with excellent spreadability
Sodium PCA HumectantProven
A powerful skin-identical humectant naturally found in human skin. This biomimetic amino acid is a key component of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and helps skin retain optimal hydration.
- Source: Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid sodium salt
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Evidence: Clinical studies confirm superior hydration compared to glycerin
Sunflower Seed OilAntioxidant
Cold-pressed Helianthus Annuus oil rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid. Studies show a single application significantly speeds skin barrier recovery within one hour.
- Vitamin E Content: High natural tocopherol levels
- Linoleic Acid: 48-74% - ideal for barrier repair
- Research: Sustains barrier improvement for 5+ hours after application
Laminaria Ochroleuca ExtractSoothing
Golden algae extract from the Atlantic coast of France, rich in polysaccharides and lipids that calm inflammation, protect against oxidative stress, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces release of pro-inflammatory cytokines
- Antioxidant: Contains zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and chlorophyll
- Barrier Support: Lipid content improves skin's hydro-lipidic film
Stearyl GlycyrrhetinateCalming
A lipid-soluble derivative of licorice root extract known for its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Helps reduce redness and irritation in sensitive skin.
- Source: Derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root)
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, skin conditioning
- Benefits: Calms reactive skin, reduces redness
12 ingredients
Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium PCA, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl P-Cresol, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your double-cleansing routine, especially in the evening to remove makeup and sunscreen. Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser for thorough cleansing.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense 2-3 pumps onto dry palms. Apply directly to dry face and neck without wetting skin first.
Massage Gently
Use circular motions to massage the oil across your face, focusing on areas with makeup and sunscreen. Take your time to dissolve everything thoroughly.
Add Water to Emulsify
Wet your fingertips with tepid water and continue massaging. The oil will transform into a milky emulsion, capturing all impurities.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. No greasy residue should remain. Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser if desired.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You wear waterproof makeup or heavy sunscreen daily
- You want a fragrance-free, gentle first cleanser
- Your skin feels tight or dry after cleansing
- You prefer the double-cleansing method
- You need a pregnancy-safe makeup remover
- You value dermatologically tested formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer foaming or gel cleansers only
- You want a one-step cleanser (no double cleansing)
- You have very oily skin and dislike oil-based products
- You're looking for active ingredients in your cleanser
- You're sensitive to fatty acid esters
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula with soothing algae and licorice extracts. Excellent dermatological tolerance.
Rich in Omega 3-6 fatty acids that nourish and strengthen the moisture barrier. Leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable, never stripped.
Effective at removing makeup and sunscreen without over-stripping. The oil-to-milk texture rinses clean without leaving residue.
Works well for makeup removal but some users with very oily skin may prefer lighter formulas. Double cleansing recommended.
Non-comedogenic according to clinical testing. However, avoid if you have fungal acne due to fatty ester content.
Results timeline
ONGOINGClean, Soft Skin
Makeup, sunscreen, and impurities are thoroughly removed. Skin feels clean, nourished, and comfortable with no tight or stripped sensation.
98% reported effective makeup removalImproved Skin Comfort
Reduction in post-cleansing tightness and dryness. Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Less reactivity to environmental stressors.
87% noticed improved skin comfortHealthier Skin Barrier
Consistent use supports the skin's natural lipid barrier. Reduction in sensitivity, redness, and irritation. Skin appears calmer and more balanced.
82% reported reduced sensitivityMaintained Skin Health
Long-term protection against the vicious cycle of sensitization. Skin remains well-cleansed yet nourished, supporting overall skin health.
91% would repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally gentle on sensitive skin and eyes
- Removes waterproof makeup effortlessly
- No greasy residue after rinsing
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Leaves skin soft and nourished, not stripped
- Oil-to-milk texture feels luxurious
- Doesn't blur vision like some oil cleansers
- Dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (12 ingredients)
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Higher price point vs. drugstore alternatives
- 150ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- May feel too rich for very oily skin types
- Some prefer a foaming cleanser sensation
- Pump mechanism can occasionally stick
- Limited availability in some regions
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Japanese cult favorite with 230ml size. Fragrance-free, emulsifies quickly. Slightly thinner texture but equally effective at makeup removal. Also not fungal acne safe.
Olive oil-based formula with rosemary. Thicker consistency, excellent for waterproof makeup. Contains only 8 ingredients but has a distinct herbal scent.
French pharmacy alternative with 400ml size. Contains niacinamide and shea butter. Designed for body and face, foaming formula. More suitable for dry/eczema-prone skin.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Oil-to-foam texture rather than oil-to-milk. Larger 473ml size. More widely available at drugstores.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F).
Pump bottle with UV-stabilizing ingredients to protect formula integrity. Clear bottle shows product level.
Yes, 150ml is over the 100ml TSA limit. Transfer to a smaller container for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleansing oil is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreens. All 12 ingredients have good safety profiles for expectant and nursing mothers. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate (the main ingredient) and Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, which are fatty acid esters that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like Kose Softymo Speedy (though also not FA-safe) or look for MCT oil-based cleansers specifically formulated to be fungal acne safe.
Yes, absolutely! As a rinse-off first cleanser, this product won't interfere with any active ingredients you use afterward. In fact, properly removing makeup and sunscreen before applying actives helps them penetrate better. Just ensure you follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser before applying your actives, and always use actives on completely dry skin.
This cleansing oil is ideal for sensitive, dry, and normal skin types. It was specifically formulated for sensitive skin with its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula enriched with soothing ingredients. Dry skin types benefit from the Omega 3-6 fatty acids. Those with very oily skin may find it too rich, though it still works well for makeup removal when followed by a foam or gel cleanser.
Results are immediate for cleansing - you'll notice makeup and sunscreen removed effortlessly after the first use. For skin comfort improvements (reduced tightness, less post-cleanse dryness), most users report benefits within 1-2 weeks. Barrier strengthening and reduced sensitivity typically become noticeable after 3-4 weeks of consistent use.
This is your FIRST cleansing step, used on dry skin before any other products. Apply to dry face, massage to dissolve makeup/sunscreen, add water to emulsify, then rinse. Follow with a water-based cleanser (double cleansing), then proceed with toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (AM). Use primarily in the evening to remove the day's buildup.
The product is clinically tested and labeled non-comedogenic by Bioderma. While Ethylhexyl Palmitate has some comedogenic potential, as a rinse-off product that's thoroughly washed away, the risk of pore clogging is minimal. Clinical studies on 121 subjects for 21 days showed no comedogenic effects. If you're acne-prone, always follow with a second cleanser to ensure complete removal.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 150ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily evening use (2-3 pumps per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil is an excellent choice for those with sensitive, dry, or reactive skin seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover. The innovative double-action micellar technology combined with nourishing Omega 3-6 fatty acids delivers a luxurious cleansing experience that respects the skin barrier. While the price per ml is higher than budget alternatives and it's not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, the dermatologically-tested, fragrance-free formula makes it a standout for sensitive skin sufferers. The oil-to-milk transformation provides a satisfying cleanse without the greasy residue common in oil cleansers. A solid investment for your double-cleansing routine, especially if gentle, effective makeup removal is your priority.
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
Anti-Aging 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 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium PCA
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|