Micellar lotion - hmm are you sure ...

Micellar lotion has been extremely popular for years as a quick and convenient way to remove makeup and cleanse the face. Advertised as gentle and effective, it is often chosen as an essential daily skin care product. But is it actually the best choice for the skin? Can its regular use do more harm than good? In this article, we'll take a look at what micellar lotion is, what mistakes we make when using it, and what are better alternatives for cleansing the skin.

What is a micellar fluid and how does it work?

Micellar fluid is an aqueous formula that contains micelles, or microscopic beads of surfactants (cleansing agents) that attract grease and impurities, dissolving them and removing them from the surface of the skin.

•     The micelles act like a magnet - they attract sebum, makeup residue and impurities.
•        It doesn't require rinsing - so the manufacturers claim, but is this true?
•       It often contains soothing substances - such as panthenol, glycerin or plant extracts.

Why is micellar lotion not a good choice?

Micellar lotion has a gentle formula, but it actually works similarly to a detergent-based makeup remover, which means it's not ideal for every skin type.  Not only does it cleanse poorly, le can also harm the skin.

1. Incomplete skin cleansing

Micellar lotion does not thoroughly remove all impurities, especially waterproof makeup, sunscreen and sebum. Makeup and SPF require greasy cleansing - micelles are not strong enough to thoroughly remove waterproof products. Doesn't cleanse deep layers of skin - leaves residue of cosmetics and dirt.

A better alternative: hydrophilic oils and makeup remover lotions, which dissolve makeup more effectively.

2. Incorrect application - no rinsing.

Many people believe that micellar lotion does not need to be washed off. This is a MIT! The fluid contains surfactants (detergents) that can irritate the skin :

• ü  leaving them on the face leads to dryness, irritation and weakening of the hydrolipid barrier;
• ü unwashed liquid can cause clogged pores and pimples which can lead to inflammation;
• ü after using micellar lotion, always wash it off with water and a gentle face wash. If you don't wash your face after using it, you will leave dissolved makeup or skincare of the day as well as impurities on your face.

3. Rubbing the face with a cotton ball - skin damage

ü Rubbing the face too hard with a cotton ball while applying micellar lotion is one of the most common skin care mistakes.

ü  ü Rubbing damages the skin barrier - leading to irritation, redness and premature wrinkles.

ü  The delicate skin around the eyes is prone to micro-injuries - this can accelerate the aging process and weaken eyelashes.

How to apply micellar lotion without damaging the skin?

·      ü Saturate a cotton ball and hold it for a few seconds on your eyelid or skin, instead of rubbing.

·      ü Use soft cotton balls or reusable pads, which are gentler on the skin.

Alternatives to micellar lotion

If you want to cleanse your skin effectively, it's a good idea to turn to other, gentler methods. There are many good quality products on the market, at affordable prices. What do we recommend?

1. Hydrophilic oils and makeup remover lotions (the best alternative):

ü  üdissolve waterproof makeup, SPF filters and impurities;

     ümoisturize the skin and strengthen its hydrolipidic barrier;

ü  üare suitable for all skin types, even oily skin (hydrophilic oils do not clog pores).

How to use: apply the oil to dry skin, massage in, and then wash off with water - the product will turn into an emulsion and thoroughly cleanse the face.

2. Facial cleansing gels and foams:

ü ü ideal as the second step of skin cleansing (after removing makeup with oil);

ü  üremove makeup residue and micellar lotion;

ü  üwell chosen do not over-dry the skin.

What to choose: for dry and sensitive skin: gentle foams and gels without SLS. For oily and combination skin: gels with salicylic acid or niacinamide.

3. Makeup remover milks and emulsions:

ü  ügentle, suitable for dry and sensitive skin;

ü  üdissolve makeup well and do not damage the hydrolipidic barrier;

Remember: they require rinsing with water or wiping with a warm towel.

Summary - the most important rules for using micellar lotion

Micellar lotion can be effective as the first step of skin cleansing, but should not be used alone or left on the face.

·       Always wash off the liquid with water and face gel.

·       Avoid rubbing your skin with the cotton ball - instead, gently hold the cotton ball on your skin.

·        Do not use the liquid as your only skin cleanser.

Best alternatives to micellar lotion

·      ü Hydrophilic oils and makeup remover lotions - effectively remove makeup and SPF.

·       üGentle face gels and foams - cleanse the skin without irritation.

·      ü Makeup remover milks and emulsions - gently remove makeup and care for the skin.

If you want healthy and well-cleansed skin, you'd better go for the double cleansing method, which is more effective and safer for your skin than micellar lotion alone, which you can give to a friend you don't like.

What can you use it for?

There is also a very cool use for micellar lotion. We women happen to stain the collar of a blouse or jacket with foundation. You can soak a cotton ball and wipe off the dirt. Super comes off;-)