What is the difference between tonic and micellar water

Tonic and micellar water differ primarily in purpose. But these funds are still confused. We will tell you why you should not do this and what the essence of the differences is.

What is a facial tonic

Tonic – This is a cosmetic product that completes the stage of skin cleansing. They treat the skin before applying the cream. Its consistency is similar to water.
We can say that this is water (sometimes thermal), only enriched with active ingredients:

  • lactic, salicylic and glycolic acids;

  • moisture-retaining components – glycerin or hyaluronic acid;

  • essential oils;

  • vitamins;

  • herbal extracts;

  • panthenol;

  • allantoin, etc.

Answer our quiz to find out which tonic you need.

The composition of the tonic may also include alcohol (for example, for an antibacterial effect). But still, its main task is to restore the acid-base balance of the skin and prepare it for the application of care.
Depending on the composition, the tonic may have additional tasks:

  • soothe the skin;

  • matte it;

  • narrow pores;

  • moisturize;

  • fight free radicals (show antioxidant properties);

  • stimulate skin renewal;

  • contribute to its recovery.

You can read about the properties of this or that product on the packaging.

The tonic prepares the skin for the application of the cream.

What is micellar water

Micellar water This is a gentle skin cleanser. It was originally developed by dermatologists for gentle cleansing (without water) of atopic skin. Micelles act as active cleansing particles here, capable of quickly and frictionlessly removing makeup and impurities.

In addition to micelles, micellar water may include:

  • glycerin, hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that help moisturize the skin;

  • herbal ingredients;

  • vitamins;

  • salicylic acid, etc.

The main function of micellar water is cleansing. This tool:

  • removes make-up and impurities;

  • does not injure the skin;

  • requires rinsing with water, although in some cases it can be used for waterless cleansing.

As a rule, the product is used at the first stage of cleansing, followed by washing with a gel / foam, etc.

The main function of micellar water is to cleanse the skin.

Main differences

These are completely different means. The only thing that unites them is the water base and participation in the process of skin cleansing. Only micellar water is its initial stage, and tonic is the final one. If you want to refresh your face, we will wipe it with a tonic. If you need a thorough cleansing – micellar water.

What is better to choose?

Choosing between micellar water and tonic is like choosing between shoes and a coat. You will need both. According to dermatologist-cosmetologist Alexandra Altaeva, “these are two different participants in daily skin care.”

Features of the use of tonic and micellar water

Below we offer the optimal version of the step-by-step skin care.

  1. Moisten a cotton pad with micellar water and remove make-up and impurities.

  2. Rinse your face with water. If you travel, for example, on a train, you can leave the micellar water on.

  3. Apply toner to a cotton pad and wipe your face.

  4. Apply serum and/or cream.

Can micellar water be used instead of toner?

Based on what has been said above, no. These are two completely different products with different functionality.

No need to choose between micellar water and tonic. Your bathroom shelf should have both!

Review of the best facial cleansers and toners

According to the editors of Healthy-Food, at least two of these 22 remedies could live in your home.

Tonics

What tonic to choose? Depends on your skin type and what effect you expect. Details are in our review.

Gentle moisturizing tonic without ethyl alcohol with rose extract Tonique Douceur, Lancôme

Softens, tones and moisturizes the skin. Does not contain ethyl alcohol and is suitable for all skin types, including dry skin. The formula with glycerin moisturizes the skin, while rose and elderberry extracts additionally care for it.

Perfecting Tonic Pureté Thermale, Vichy

Tonic gently cleanses the skin, moisturizing it. It has a softening and refreshing effect. Does not contain ethyl alcohol, among the active ingredients are thermal water and glycerin.

Soothing vitamin tonic with rose water “Basic care” for sensitive and dry skin, Garnier

Tonic completes the cleansing procedure. Rose water is included as a well-known soothing ingredient.

Cleansing tonic against blackheads and oily sheen “Clean Skin”, Garnier

Great for oily and combination skin. Completes the cleansing procedure, and thanks to salicylic acid and zinc in the composition, it helps to fight black spots and greasy shine.

Make-up remover for normal to combination skin “Endless freshness”, L’Oréal Paris

Purifies and refreshes the skin. Contains rose extract, known for its soothing properties, and lotus extract, which has a moisturizing and regenerating effect.

Soothing tonic for sensitive skin of the face and eyes Soothing Lotion, La Roche-Posay

The product does not contain soap, ethyl alcohol, dyes and parabens, has a physiological pH level. Helps remove residual impurities and soothes the skin.

Micellar water

It just seems that micellar water is a universal product and any one will suit you. Choose a product according to your skin type. Today there are more and more “personalized” versions.

Micellar makeup remover Eau Micellaire Douceur, Lancôme

Great for all skin types. The formula moisturizes, soothes and gives a feeling of comfort.

Micellar water with minerals for sensitive skin of the face, eyes and lips Pureté Thermale, Vichy

The product gently cleanses the most delicate areas of the face. Among the active ingredients are panthenol with soothing properties and thermal water, which moisturizes and saturates the skin with essential minerals.

Micellar water “Ultra care” with cornflower blue water for the face and delicate skin around the eyes and lips, Garnier

Easily and quickly removes makeup without friction and leaves behind a feeling of comfort. Cornflower extract provides a caring effect.

Micellar water for face, eyes and lips of all skin types, Garnier

Effectively cleanses the skin without friction. Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.

Micellar water with oils, Garnier

Cleansing oils dissolve even waterproof makeup without leaving a greasy film after use. The formula contains argan oil.

Moisturizing cleansing micellar water for all skin types, CeraVe

Gently cleanses from impurities and cosmetics, helps to restore and strengthen the protective barrier of the skin, like all products of the brand. The formula contains niacinamide and ceramides.

Lotions

These products from our review can replace tonics: they are rich in moisturizing, caring, tonic components and are able to refresh the skin, completing the cleansing stage.

Pure Ritual Care in Lotion, Helena Rubinstein

Thanks to the formula with glycolic acid and rice extract, it effectively smoothes the skin microrelief. Makes pores less visible and adds radiance.

Regenerating lotion Absolue Rose 80, Lancôme

The product with extract and aroma of rose moisturizes, softens, refreshes and perfectly prepares the skin for basic care.

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