Learn the difference between micellar water vs toner and find out which one is best for you!
Micellar water and toner…what in the world is the difference between the two? And how do you know which one to use in your natural skincare routine?
If you find yourself asking these questions, then you’ve come to the right place! We’re going to sort this out and help you decide which one is right for you.
Let’s start by talking about what micellar water is, the benefits of using it, and how it differs from toner.
Then we’ll do the same for toner. And finally, we’ll finish with some frequently asked questions about the two.
So, let’s get started!
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What is Micellar Water?
Micellar water often gets confused with toner, which is why you might be wondering what the difference is between the two.
And although they are similar, they are not the same. Micellar water is not toner.
Micellar water is a moisturizing cleanser that you do not need to wash away. It’s made from oil and water. I know, the two don’t mix! Except this one time.
There are these tiny little droplets of oil, called micelles, suspended in soft water. These micelles attract and gently remove makeup, oil, grease, and dirt, leaving you with a clean face!
How is Micellar Water Different from Toner?
Micellar water and toner are both water-based products formulated to hydrate your skin. They both have a runny consistency and are generally suitable for all skin types.
And they are both gentle enough to use as part of your daily skincare routine. But that’s where the similarities end.
Micellar water is a gentle cleanser and should be used in the cleansing part of your daily routine. Toner is designed to balance the pH levels in your face and prepare it for moisturizing. It should be used after washing your face.
How is Micellar Water Different from Other Cleansers?
Micellar water is gentler on your skin than most other cleansers. It is formulated to gently remove light makeup, dirt, and oil, without being washed off. Most other cleansers need to be rinsed away.
And because it is gentler, it is easier on sensitive or dry skin, too.
Foaming and exfoliating cleansers can often be harsh, stripping away the natural oils in your skin, weakening your skin’s moisture barrier. Micellar water actually supports the skin barrier, rather than weakening it.
But the flip side is that micellar water doesn’t provide a deep clean. So, if you have super oily or acne prone skin (like me), you may want to occasionally follow up with a deeper facial cleanser or an exfoliator, just to be sure you are regularly cleaning out those pores.
What are the Benefits of Micellar Water?
There are lots of benefits to adding micellar water to your skincare routine.
Micellar water:
- Gently lifts away makeup, dirt, and oils.
- Does not strip away natural oils.
- Doesn’t disrupt your skin’s pH balance.
- Is suitable for all skin types.
- Preps your face for the rest of your skin care routine.
Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to use, especially while traveling, because you don’t have to rinse it off!
Should I Use Micellar Water in My Skin Care Routine?
Whether you use micellar water is entirely up to you. We all have different skin types, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer here.
But it definitely won’t hurt for you to add micellar water to your skincare routine. I like to use it on my face as a kind of pre-wash after a long day, or sometimes I’ll even use it on my scalp to go longer in between washes!
When to Use Micellar Water
Okay, let’s go over when it’s good to use micellar water. And then you can decide if it is right for you.
You can add micellar water to your skincare routine if:
- You wear little to no makeup.
- You wear light makeup, such as light foundation or concealer.
- You have sensitive or dry skin.
- Traditional facial cleansers tend to irritate your skin.
- You aren’t prone to breakouts.
You can also use micellar water when you are traveling, or in place of facial wipes. There’s definitely a time and place for it!
When Not to Use Micellar Water
Although it is generally safe to add micellar water to your daily skincare routine, there are times when you may opt to exclude it.
Consider forgoing micellar water if:
- You are wearing heavy makeup, such as foundation or waterproof mascara.
- You have excess oil or acne-prone skin.
- You want a deep cleanse.
- You need to exfoliate.
Of course, you can still use micellar water in these circumstances. You just need to follow up with your usual cleanser or exfoliator as well.
How to Use Micellar Water
Using micellar water is so easy! Simply wet a cotton pad with the water and gently sweep it across your face, to remove light makeup, oil, dirt, and other residue.
If you’d like, you can implement a two-step cleansing routine, using micellar water first. Then follow it up with a second water-based cleanser, to remove any stubborn makeup.
And finally, continue with your usual skincare routine, including your toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen, if you use them.
What is Toner?
Now that we have micellar water all figured out, let’s talk about toner!
While micellar water cleanses your skin, the main purpose of toner is to remove any impurities your cleanser may have left behind. Toners also prepare your skin for the rest of your skincare products by restoring the natural pH balance of your skin.
Depending on the formula, your toner may also contain antioxidants, antibacterial ingredients, anti-inflammatories, and exfoliants. These ingredients may address specific skin concerns, so match your toner to your skin type and needs.
I’ve still been using the same toner since day one of my clean beauty journey! It’s this lovely rosewater toner that I spray on my face every morning.
Rosewater makes a fantastic toner because it calms inflammation, balances skin pH and provides great aromatherapy benefits. But there’s way more benefits than that in a toner!
What are the Benefits of Toner?
You can choose a toner based on your individual skincare needs. That’s the beauty of a good toner!
So, depending on the toner you choose, toners can:
- Hydrate your skin.
- Detoxify your skin.
- Tone your skin.
- Tighten your skin.
- Reduce skin irritation.
- Remove dead skin cells.
- Restore your skin’s pH levels.
- Freshen your complexion.
So, if you add a toner to your skincare routine, do a little research first, and find the one that will address your personal skin concerns. Or you can make your own, with my DIY rose water recipe!
Should I Use Toner in My Skin Care Routine?
Whether you use toner is entirely up to you. Just like with micellar water, there is no one-size-fits-all clean beauty routine.
Since micellar water and toner have different purposes, you should decide what you need, for your skin type.
If you have oily skin and are prone to breakouts, you may want to use a toner. But if you have dry skin or sensitive skin, micellar water might be a better choice. Whatever you decide, look for a product that works for your skin type.
When to Use Toner
Let’s talk about times when toner might be a better option for you, though. There are so many different toners for different skin concerns.
Consider using toner if you have:
- Dry skin – a moisturizing toner or rosewater might be beneficial.
- Sensitive skin – a soothing toner might feel nice.
- Oily, acne-prone or aging skin – an exfoliating toner might help.
- Large pores – an AHA toner might be useful.
- High serum production – a witch hazel toner could help.
- Dull skin – a lactic acid toner could brighten your skin right up.
You can also use a toner if you just want to freshen up a bit. It offers a nice pick-me-up, especially in the winter.
When Not to Use a Toner
Generally, it’s never a bad idea to use a toner. But, if you want to keep a minimal skin care routine, a toner might not be necessary. It could end up being just an added step for you.
Other reasons to skip the toner include:
- If you have dry or sensitive skin. Some toners have a high amount of alcohol in them and could irritate your skin. Avoid toners with alcohols at all costs!
- If your skin is stinging. You should discontinue use immediately, and either skip the toner or find a gentler formula.
Also, remember, toners aren’t meant for cleansing your face. So, if you are looking for a cleanser, micellar water would be a better option.
How to Use Toner
To apply toner, wet a cotton ball with the toner and gently wipe your face with it. Do not rinse the toner off.
You can also put a little toner on your hands and then gently tap it onto your face. I prefer
And remember to follow the thinnest to thickest rule. A toner goes on after your cleanser, but before any serums, moisturizers, or sunscreens.
Which is Better – Micellar Water or Toner?
That probably depends on who you ask, and what their skin care needs are! Some people will use a toner, some will use micellar water.
And some use both. There really is no wrong answer here.
In fact, it’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges, because the two products are used for two different things. Micellar water is used to cleanse your face, while a toner is used to restore your pH level.
A toner can be used to remove any residue left from your cleanser as well, although it is not a cleanser, and should not replace your cleanser.
One example of when I use micellar water is when I’m traveling, especially camping when I don’t have unlimited access to clean water. I’m able to keep my skin fresh when I’m in a pinch and it really comes in handy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we’ve covered the difference between micellar water and toner, let’s answer some common questions regarding the two!
What Skin Type Benefits Most from Micellar Water?
Micellar water is very gentle and lightweight. It is less harsh than traditional or foaming cleansers. Plus, it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or ingredients that can strip the natural oils from your skin.
This makes it perfect for dry or sensitive skin.
Micellar water sometimes also contains glycerin, chamomile, or other such ingredients, that help hydrate and calm the skin, as well.
But, as always please keep an eye out for greenwashing! You don’t want any additives like fragrance, alcohols, or parabens.
Is Micellar Water Good for Acne-Prone Skin?
That depends.
Micellar water does cleanse the face, clean the pores, and remove impurities. But it does not do as good of a job as a deep cleanser or an exfoliator would. It is not meant for a deeper cleanse.
You could play around with it and see if it helps. You might find that you still need to use your usual cleanser from time to time, to get a deeper clean.
A toner often helps with acne, as there are some formulas specifically designed for acne-prone skin. If you use micellar water, you might want to follow up with a good toner, to pick up whatever impurities were missed by the micellar water.
Is Micellar Water Good for Sensitive Skin?
Yes, micellar water is great for sensitive skin! Just make sure you get one that isn’t full of extra additives. My personal favorite clean micellar water is this one here.
Is Micellar Water Good for Oily Skin?
Micellar water is generally good for all skin types. But it does contain micelles, which are tiny little droplets of oil.
This oil could potentially clog your pores. If you want to use micellar water, it might be best to follow up with your usual cleanser, or a toner.
Play around with it and see what works best for you! It really depends from person to person.
Does Micellar Water Tone Skin?
Micellar water is not a toner. It is a cleanser. Although it works similarly to a toner, it’s purpose is not to tone the skin.
But it makes a fantastic layer in your skin care routine!
Can Micellar Water be Used as a Toner?
While micellar water does not tone skin, it can be used to balance the skin’s pH levels, same as a toner. It also hydrates the skin and can prepare it for the rest of your skincare routine, same as a toner would.
So, you could potentially use your micellar water as a toner. When used this way, micellar water will wipe away any impurities left from your regular cleanser, just as a toner would.
I think you can use micellar water as a toner if you have extremely dry skin you want to heal. That way, your skin gets an extra boost of moisture.
Should I Use Toner or Micellar Water First?
Use micellar water first, to cleanse your face. And then follow up with a toner specifically formatted for your skin care needs.
Can I Use Micellar Water and Toner at the Same Time?
Yes, both micellar water and toner can be used in your daily skincare routine.
Can I Use Micellar Water to Remove Sunscreen?
Yes, micellar water should be able to remove your sunscreen.
Should You Wash Your Face After Using Micellar Water?
Micellar water is meant to be left on your face. You do not need to rinse it away.
However, if you have acne-prone or oily skin, you may want to follow up with a second wash, using your normal cleanser. Micellar water doesn’t always remove all debris from your skin, so to be sure you aren’t clogging those pores, a second washing may be necessary.
If you prefer a deeper cleanse, you may want to follow up with a second cleansing as well. Double cleansing seems to be all the rage these days, and this is a more realistic way of doing it, in my opinion.
However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, wiping with micellar water may be enough. You shouldn’t need to follow up with another cleansing.
Can Micellar Water Dry Out Skin?
No, micellar water is great for moisturizing your skin. It contains tiny little droplets of oil that both cleanse and hydrate your skin.
Should I Moisturize After Using Micellar Water?
Yes, you should continue with your usual skin care routine after using micellar water. It acts as a nice little boost but shouldn’t be used as a moisturizer alone.
Should I Use Micellar Water if I Don’t Wear Makeup?
Yes! Micellar water is perfect for you. It will remove any dirt, oil, and impurities that accumulated on your skin throughout the day.
Is Micellar Water Better Than Face Wash?
Micellar water is not a face wash or a makeup remover, and should not replace your usual face wash.
Is it Better to Use Micellar Water Every Day?
Yes, you can use micellar water every day. But you should still follow up from time to time with your usual cleanser, for a deeper clean.
What Are the Disadvantages of Micellar Water?
Despite all of its benefits there are some disadvantages to using micellar water.
It will not remove heavy makeup or waterproof mascara. And you need a cotton pad to apply it.
And even though it is gentler than traditional cleansers, micellar water does still use surfactants, which are necessary to remove oil and makeup. Studies have found that surfactants disrupt and weaken the skin barrier.
Do I Need Micellar Water and Toner?
No, you don’t! Neither one are essential steps in your skin care routine.
But you can use a toner, if you want to tone your skin, balance your pH levels, and freshen up a bit.
And you can use micellar water, if you want to gently cleanse your skin or freshen up a bit.
But neither one is necessary.
Final Thoughts on Micellar Water Vs. Toner
Micellar water and toner are both great additions to your skincare routine!
Micellar water gently cleanses your skin without the need to rinse it away. It’s incredibly convenient and leaves your skin feeling fresh.
Toner will catch any impurities left by your cleanser. It will also tone your skin, balance out your pH levels, and prepare your skin for the rest of your beauty regime.
But neither one is necessary. You can use one, the other, or both! It’s entirely up to you.
I hope this helped clear up your questions around micellar water and toner! If you have any more questions, leave them in the comments below. I’m happy to help!
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