Why Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water is such a celebrity favourite
When it comes to removing make-up, you’ll struggle to find a more efficient method than a swipe of micellar water. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or simply prefer a fast, effortless approach to your skincare routine, the combination of a refreshing micellar water and a cotton pad is often as much as many of us can muster after a relentless day in the office or a buzzy evening out.
A good formula can hold its own against modern balms and cleansing oils too, whisking away stubborn mascara and heavy bases without the need for a thorough rinse at the sink. The formula loved best by make-up artists globally? French dermo-cosmetic brand Bioderma’s hero Sensibio H2O Micellar Water.
Invented thirty years ago in 1995 by Jean-Noël Thorel, the pharmacist and biologist who founded Bioderma, Sensibio H2O is hailed as the very first micellar water. His vision was to create dermatological products that respect the skin's biology, with Sensibio embodying this very concept.
In terms of formula, the gentle solution was developed to remove make-up without the need for rinsing. Designed to mimic the skin's natural composition, it uses micelles (tiny oil molecules suspended in water) as a magnet for dirt, oil, and impurities. The biomimetic formula uses only one non-ionic, ultra-gentle surfactant, making it ideal for everyday use. In turn, foundation and dirt can be lifted from the complexion without compromising the all important skin barrier.
“Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water has been a staple in my kit for over twenty years,” says make-up artist Kelly Cornwell. “It’s my absolute go-to for removing make-up and grime because it balances your skin's pH levels, and it’s not drying. It leaves skin fresh, clean and hydrated.”
“I use it to clean and prep my clients' skin before applying make-up, as well as to remove eyeshadow residue and sharpen up eyeliner to achieve that perfect flick,” she adds. “I love that it has this wonderful cooling effect. If I go on holiday, I’ll keep it in the fridge for added cooling after a day in the sun.”
The formula has garnered a rather impressive celebrity clientele too, from Gwyneth Paltrow to Drew Barrymore. Victoria Beckham is a long-time fan too, using it to sweep off the remains of the day (her daughter Harper is also a convert).
"When I was a teenager, I suffered from serious skin problems, which had a big impact on me,” says Beckham. “Taking care of my skin is essential, and Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O has been a must-have for years. It’s been by my side every day for as long as I can remember – I use it to remove my make-up every single day."
You can't dispute its global popularity either. One bottle of the hero solution is sold every single second, and it consistently reigns as the bestselling micellar water in Europe. The most fascinating fact of all? The formula has remained the same since its creation in 1995 - only the exterior packaging has evolved in the thirty years of its existence.
Bioderma x Victoria Beckham Sensibio 30th Anniversary H2O Micellar Water Cleanser
To celebrate its anniversary in 2025, the brand joined forces with Beckham, with Sensibio H2O making an appearance backstage at her AW25 show at Paris Fashion Week. Bioderma also launched limited edition packaging of the cult favourite formula in collaboration with the fashion designer. The bottles have maintained their signature vibrant pink hue, with Beckham stamping a very literal mark of approval on the label with her logo.
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