I’ve used micellar water to remove my makeup for years. I love everything about it, from how gently it dissolves makeup to how well it cleanses my skin.
But I’ve been using completely non-toxic products for over a year now and non-toxic micellar waters can run a bit expensive.
Related: The beginner’s guide to clean beauty
I really wanted to find a way to make my own. But it had to check all the boxes.
- Dissolve my makeup gently, without harsh rubbing
- Cleanse my skin
- Be all-natural
- Be gentle on my eyes
- Save me money
It took a lot of research and experimenting, but I’ve come up with the perfect solution! I’ve fallen in love with this DIY micellar water and I know you will too.
First, how is micellar water so different from regular makeup remover?
Micellar water is made up of molecules called ‘micelles’ which are basically little balls of oil that attract and lift first from the pores. It’s basically oil-based whereas most makeup removers are not.
So by using micellar water you’re removing makeup, cleansing your skin and actively moisturizing all at the same time.
The micellar water I had been using for years was not non-toxic. The micelles were mixed with chemicals which seems counterintuitive. The micelles would try to lift dirt only for the toxins to clog the pores up again.
Using non-toxic products on our skin and in our homes is so important. The chemicals used in our everyday products have so much power to harm us.
Related: The 10 most toxic things in our home
This is why this DIY micellar water is perfect for you! It contains only 5 ingredients, all of which are completely natural and you guessed it, non-toxic!
These ingredients might seem intimidating and like “more things you have to buy”. But I promise they’re worth it. These are ingredients that you can use for countless homemade products and DIYs making it worth the small investment! Especially when you don’t have to buy these products over and over again.
For more DIY ideas check out: 15 things to make instead of buy
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DIY non-toxic micellar water
Here’s what you’ll need:
Jojoba oil (get it here)
Jojoba oil is gentle and perfect for those with sensitive skin. It’s non-greasy like you’d expect an oil to be and super hydrating. Not only is it moisturizing but its moisture locks in so it doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry.
Coconut oil (get it here)
What would a skincare DIY be without coconut oil? Some people swear by using just coconut oil as a makeup remover. Which works, I just prefer the added benefits of the rest of the ingredients.
Coconut oil works to dissolve your makeup and contains antimicrobial properties that have actually been known to help treat acne and protect your skin from other harmful bacteria.
It’s important to use liquid coconut oil instead of regular coconut oil. If you just use regular coconut oil that you melted it tends to solidify in the mixture. Liquid coconut oil won’t do this so it’s the better option.
Almond oil (get it here)
This ingredient isn’t a necessity for this recipe. If you’re allergic to nuts, I’d obviously advise you to stay clear of it. But if not, almond oil adds extra moisture, reduces puffiness and helps to even skin tone. So definitely a bonus and one of my favourite parts of this recipe!
Vegetable Glycerin (get it here)
Vegetable glycerin is yet another moisture-locking agent that also works to smooth the skin. When mixed with these other oils it helps to break down dirt and makeup particles.
All of these oils contain the micelles needed to cleanse your skin.
Witch Hazel (get it here)
Witch hazel is the main ingredient in most toners that everyone’s obsessed with. And for good reason. It helps fight acne, relieves inflammation, reduces irritation and tightens pores.
Recipe:
- 1 Cup distilled water
- 2 tsp jojoba oil
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp almond oil
- 2 tsp vegetable glycerin
- 1 tbsp witch hazel
Simply combine all the ingredients and store them in a sealable container and use it with a reusable cotton round to remove makeup!
I use these amber bottles for all of my homemade products!
This recipe is easy to make and feels exactly like any store-bought version, if not better! But you’ll see for yourself once you make this DIY micellar water!
Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed this non-toxic DIY! Please don’t forget to share this post and follow me on Instagram for daily non-toxic and low waste lifestyle inspiration!
I love this so much!
Thank you! I hope you get the chance to try it out! 🙂
How many ounces does this recipe make?
I honestly don’t know, I didn’t measure in ounces, sorry!
It is okay it made roughly 8.2 ounces. I love it by the way feels so light.
Awesome! I’m glad you love it!
What’s the shelf life ?
I’m not sure, but I’ve kept it for as long as 6 months as that’s usually how long it takes me to go through it.
Do you measure the coconut oil in solid form then melt it before mixing with the other ingredients or do you melt some first and then measure it? Thanks.
I only use liquid coconut oil. If you melt down solid coconut oil it will re-solidify in the container.
Hi
My store bought micelle cleanser is running out. Then I bumped on to your recipe. I’m thrilled .
My question can I use a preservative so that it does not grow mold or bacteria? Is an emulsifier important?
Hi! Thanks for your questions. In my experience, you don’t need a preservative. It takes me about 6 months to go through a batch of this recipe and I’ve never experienced problems with growth or bacteria. Just try to keep it in a cool, dark place like a bathroom cabinet. Emulsifiers aren’t important either! Just give the bottle a little shake before sing and you’re good to go!
Hi another question (may be a dump one). Witch hazel – is it water or oil?
I don’t think it’s either. It’s a liquid made from the bark and leaves of a plant called Hamamelis virginiana.
Is this vegetable glycerin necessary, or can that be omitted? Also, would Vitamin E oil be an okay replacement for almond oil?
The glycerin is an important ingredient because it soothes and is gentle on the skin. I wouldn’t recommend replacing the almond oil with vitamin E oil but you can omit it if you’re sensitive to it.
I’ve recently discovered a love for micellar water, and I can’t wait to try this recipe. Thank you for sharing! ?
I’m so glad you liked it, thanks for reading!
Hello,
Would this work with rose water instead of distilled water?
Thank you x
I’m not too sure. If you don’t have distilled water, filtered water would suffice.
Hi, how long will this concoction be able to keep (shelf life)? There is no preservatives?
Hi! No there are no preservatives so it won’t last as long as commercial products. One batch of this recipe easily lasts me 6 months without going bad. hope that helps!
This sounds lovely. What do you think about omitting or substitute coconut oil (I wouldn’t have an idea what with)
Thank you!
I would just try omitting it or maybe adding extra of one of the the other oils!
Hello! Can I use something else instead of jobjoba oil or can I just use the coconut oil alone with the rest of the ingredients
I would just omit the jojoba oil! It should work the same.