Micellar water is the French pharmacy staple I can’t live without

Micellar water is an underrated superstar when it comes to removing all the grime that builds up just from being out and about. “The very reason you’re cleansing is to prep your skin to receive treatment: whether it’s an acid, vitamin C or hydrating serum,” acne whisperer and celebrity facialist Sofie Pavitt previously told Vogue. “Using a micellar water as an initial cleanse followed by a deeper cleanse removes all dirt, mascara, SPF and oils to prep the skin and leave a clean canvas—oils leave films and can stop your treatments from penetrating the skin correctly,” she continues, making the case for them as opposed to other cleansing agents.

What is micellar water?

“Micellar water is a solution comprised of micelles or tiny cleansing ‘balls’ that are attracted to oil and dirt, that can effectively bind and lift them from skin without the need for rinsing,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr Blair Murphy-Rose. “It is usually a combination of mild surfactants and moisturisers with or without added ingredients to provide additional skin benefits.”

How does micellar water differ from a traditional cleanser?

“Traditional cleansers often contain surfactants and can be foamy or creamy,” board-certified dermatologist Dr Mina Amin explains. Whereas, “micellar water is gentler and has a lightweight, watery consistency.”

What are the benefits of micellar water?

“Micellar water is an effective, gentle cleansing option suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, with reduced risk of skin irritation,” Murphy-Rose notes, adding that many formulas contain hydrating ingredients. In short? These formulas not only cleanse, but also maintain skin’s moisture levels and protect against future dryness.

Specifically, she continues, look for a micellar water with humectants like glycerine and hyaluronic acid, plus soothing ingredients like aloe, niacinamide and ceramides. She also praises it for its ability to remove makeup: “In fact, we keep it in each exam room in my office to remove makeup from patients’ faces when needed before a skin evaluation.”

When should you use micellar water?

There are many uses for micellar water, per Bonjout. First, in the morning “as a light cleanse to remove oils that accumulate overnight.” You can also use it as the first step in a double cleansing routine, to gently remove makeup and surface oils before a foaming or gel face wash. Micellar water can also be used for touchups throughout the day, say after a workout or while travelling. Lastly, those with sensitive skin might appreciate it “as a daily cleanser for those who find traditional formulas too harsh.”

This article first appeared on Vogue.com