Micelle technology. You may not have heard about it yet, but when it comes to skin care, manufacturers are starting to incorporate it into their products.
Simply put, a micelle is a cluster of molecules that have hydrophilic heads (water-loving) and hydrophobic tails (water-hating). Micelle technology has been around for a while, and you’ll notice that it has recently found application in a range of cleansers. When applied to the skin, the micelle opens up. The hydrophobic tails (water-hating; oil-loving) attract all the dirt and debris. Wiping off with a cloth helps to whisk it away. This is done without the foaming action that we associate with traditional cleansing. Nevertheless, skin is effectively cleansed without any dryness or irritation.
Traditional cleansers rely upon surfactants, which can dry skin and may be especially problematic for sensitive skin types. Micelle technology circumvents this problem. If you’re wondering whether a cleanser that doesn’t foam can actually work, the answer is yes! Although we’ve been programmed to think that foam = clean, that’s not necessarily the case. Micelle cleansers clean skin, remove makeup and pore-clogging dirt, without the use of harsh detergents that may irritate skin.
Micellar cleansers can be used for all skin types – from the oiliest to the driest. It is, however, especially suited to sensitive and/or problematic skin types, which are more prone to skin irritation. And, since you don’t need water to create foam, these cleansers are convenient too. Splash some onto a cotton pad and apply to face. No need to rinse; you’re done!
Interested in trying a cleanser with micelle technology? Consider Neostrata Micellar Cleanser, La Roche Posay Physiological Micellar Solution, La Roche Posay Physiological Cleansing Gel or La Roche Posay Physiological Make-up Remover.
Your skin will say thanks.
