Why You Should Be Using a Cleansing Water in Your Skin Care Regimen

When you hear the phrase “cleansing waters,” you may write them off as another beauty gimmick. While there are a number of beauty gimmicks out there, cleansing waters aren’t one of them. Cleansing waters aren’t simply water in a pretty package. Not even close. Cleansing waters are actually one of the ways to clearer, brighter skin. And who doesn’t want that?

Cleansing waters are big in Korea and now they are starting to make a splash over here. Charlotte Cho, co-founder of popular K-beauty site Soko Glam, explains that cleansing waters (or micellar waters, as they are sometimes called) help to remove oil and water-based impurities from skin (like makeup and sunscreen). Unlike your facial cleanser, the majority of cleansing waters are advertised as “rinse-free.”

If you’re wondering what the difference between a cleansing water and a toner is, Cho states, “Most toners work to reset your pH balance and hydrate the skin. There are many cleansing waters that now offer a variety of benefits.” For example, certain micellar waters can cleanse, tone and exfoliate. Remember what we said about them being more than plain ol’ water?

One of the big benefits of cleansing waters is that they are versatile. You can easily work one into your routine. Cho says that you can use one as the first step of your skincare routine to remove makeup. Then you can follow it up with a double cleanse with your regular cleansers. If you’re at the gym, you can use a micellar water before and after your workout. And if you’re looking for a midday refresher, a cleansing water is just the thing to use. To apply it, simply douse a cotton pad, then apply to your face and neck.

Are you feeling inspired to add a skin-perfecting cleansing water into your skincare regimen? Click through the gallery above to see some of the best cleansing waters on the market.