Micellar water or toner: which one to pick?

Understanding micellar water and toner

I know how tricky it can be to pick the right products for your face care routine. Micellar water or toner? If you've ever wondered (and honestly, who hasn't?), I'm here to help you figure it out.

What is micellar water?

Micellar water is kind of my everyday go-to. It gently cleanses, removes makeup, and purifies your skin, all in one easy step. Thanks to its micelles, it gets rid of makeup residue, excess oil, and impurities without being harsh on your skin. It's perfect for sensitive skin and dry skin because you don't need to rinse it off. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling fresh, clean, and purified.

What is a toner?

The toner (or toning lotion) is the step that comes after cleansing. It helps tighten pores, remove any last impurities, and most importantly, gets your skin ready for its moisturizing treatments. Some toners have soothing ingredients like chamomile floral water or rose hydrosol, which are perfect for calming redness and hydrating your skin. Others are made for combination skin and oily skin, with ingredients like thermal water, epilobium, or certain essential oils (lavender, grapefruit, geranium) for a purifying effect. 

Micellar water or toner: what's the difference?

What they're made of and what they do

Micellar water is a cleanser that attracts and removes impurities, while a toner is a treatment that tones and hydrates. Some toners contain alcohol, which can be irritating for sensitive skin, whereas micellar water is often gentler. Toners enriched with hydrosol, floral water, or thermal water are pretty good, as they give you a feeling of freshness when you apply them.

How to apply and use them

I use micellar water with a cotton pad (reusable is even better!) and in just a couple of swipes, my skin is clean and ready for the day. As for the toner, you apply it after your cleansing gel, either with a cotton pad or directly with your hands, gently patting it onto your eye contour and face. I really love including it in my routine; it gives such a super refreshing effect and boosts my skin's glow. The little bonus is when the formula smells good! I have to admit, I always look forward to this little beauty moment with myself.

How to choose between micellar water and toner for your skin type?

Sensitive and dry skin

If your skin is sensitive or dry, I recommend a gentle micellar water enriched with cornflower floral water or chamomile hydrosol. To complete your routine, a hydrating toner can also be a great addition to bring even more freshness and comfort.

Oily and combination skin

If, like me, you sometimes struggle with shine and visible pores, a purifying toner will be your best friend. Look for ingredients like thermal water, witch hazel hydrosol, or astringent agents (substances that tighten pores) that help balance the skin.

Normal and combination skin

Lucky you! Your skin can handle pretty much anything. A gentle micellar water or a hydrating toner will work perfectly; it's up to you to see what you prefer in your routine.

How to fit them into your routine?

Micellar water: a quick and easy step

I use micellar water morning and night for a quick makeup removal and cleanse, like after a great pilates class! If I'm wearing waterproof makeup, I pick a version designed for that to make sure everything comes off without scrubbing. 

Toner: the finishing touch

After cleansing, a little bit of toner and my skin is ready for its serum and moisturizer. It's a step that really makes a difference, especially if I want soft, glowing skin.

Conclusion

So, micellar water or toner? It all depends on your skin type and what you need! If you want a quick and effective cleanse, micellar water is ideal. If you're looking for toned skin that's ready for its moisturizing treatments, then toner is your best friend. Personally, I like to use them together for maximum effect. What about you, are you more team micellar water or team toner?