Cleansing Water: A Makeup Artist’s Best-Kept Secret

When makeup artists and models hit Paris for fashion week, the runway shows aren’t their only destination. They also flock to Parisian pharmacies to stock up on one beauty staple: Bioderma Créaline Micellear Water. We spotted this must-have product on almost every makeup artist’s table backstage during fashion week, and made it our mission to find out why. We chatted with London-based makeup artist Lisa Eldridge to get the scoop.

Why they love it...
Bioderma Créaline Micellear Water is a staple in beauty kits across the world, and used by many of the industry’s top players. But what makes this formula so special? "Bioderma Créaline—as we call it in the biz—is the easiest, most gentle makeup remover out there," explains Lisa. During fashion week, models walk in as many as seven or eight shows a day, which means a lot of makeup application and removal. If the right formula isn’t used, a model’s face can become red and raw—if they didn’t have sensitive skin when they walked in, they surely will after a week of runway work.

Instead of using soap, Créaline contains tiny micelles, (a small cluster of cleansing molecules mixed in a liquid) which help dissolve the impurities in your skin (similar to how detergent breaks down oil) so you can rinse or wipe them away. Because of the micellar action, you don’t need to scrub your face in order to get rid of makeup. "Bioderma Créaline takes everything off in one go and isn't harsh on your skin, so you can use it over and over again," adds Lisa. "It’s perfect for the runway, where you have to quickly remove a girl’s makeup and start over.”

Créaline also refreshes skin while it cleanses (like a toner) so your face will look smoother and brighter, without irritation. Eager to jump on the cleansing water bandwagon, there have been copycat formulas over the years, such as Avène’s Cleansing and Makeup Remover Micellar Lotion, and brands such as Nars and MAC are introducing “makeup removing waters” stateside this year. However, if you choose to use a cleansing water at the end of your day, Lisa advises following up with your regular regimen. "Bioderma Créaline is a clean, no-frills product, perfect for refreshing and makeup removing. Even if you aren't using the Bioderma formula, I would still recommend following your cleansing water with a proper skin cleaning routine,” recommends Lisa. “Your skin needs the massage and extra cleaning that comes with a proper cleanse.”

So, Beauties, if you can't get to Paris to pick up your bottle, check out our Top 3 picks of the newest cleansing waters.

Beautylish recommends:
NARS Makeup Removing Water will remove everything—even liquid eye liner! It’s perfect to stash by your bed for those late nights when you can’t be bothered to wash your face properly.

Try Caudalie Cleansing Water for a non-oily formula that’s similar to Bioderma Créaline. This product is extremely gentle, soothing, and won’t leave you feeling oily or dry. It’s a good substitute for a cleanser if your skin is extra sensitive.

MAC Mineralize Charged Water Cleanser contains minerals to clear and soothe your skin (leaving it silky smooth!) while still removing makeup.

Lisa Eldridge is a London-based makeup artist who has been in the industry for over 20 years. She has painted the faces of celebrities such as Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz, and Heidi Klum and is the creative director for cosmetics brand No. 7. Lisa is also well known for her makeup tutorials for Chanel and on her own YouTube channel. Follow her on twitter @Lisa_Eldridge for beauty tips and advice.