Garnier Micellar Oil-Infused Cleansing Water Review

As much as I enjoy applying makeup, taking it off is always a tedious task. I’ve been a big fan of using micellar water and become really comfortable with Garnier’s answer to micellar waters. When they bought out the Garnier Micellar Oil-Infused Cleansing Water I was super intrigued because I felt as though the infused oil might help to break down my makeup more when I’m starting my cleansing routine.

I have to apologise for the lack of better photos. I didn’t take any when I first started using it and only remembered that I didn’t write a post on it when I neared the end. Oops!

So let’s get straight to it. The bottle holds a massive 400ml priced at 5.99 (now £9.99 in 2025)). Not bad considering it boasts 200 uses. The flip top lid is really easy to open up and dispense as much product as you need.

The bottle states that it’s fine for use on face, eyes and lips and is non greasy.

f you’re here because TikTok told you to try a new micellar water, hi 👋 you’re in the right place. I’ve put Garnier’s micellar water through its paces, face, eyes, lips, waterproof everything and after nearly 200 uses, here’s my very honest review.

What the bottle promises

The bottle claims it’s suitable for face, eyes and lips and that it’s non-greasy. Compared with oil-based cleansers, it definitely doesn’t leave that heavy, oily film. That said, there’s still a tiny “slip” left on the skin, so you don’t get that squeaky-clean feeling. As a pre-cleanse, though, I don’t think it’s a big issue, you’re following up with a second cleanse anyway.

The scent situation (aka my one big ick)

There’s nothing offensive about the fragrance, but I personally prefer skincare to be fragrance-free. This one lingers. It doesn’t fade quickly, and I can still catch a whiff on my face after I’m done. If you’re sensitive to scents or just over perfumed skincare, make a note.

Sensitive eyes? Read this.

A massive plus: it’s ophthalmologically tested. My eyes are precious cargo, I’ve had eye infections in the past, so I’m picky about what goes near my lash line. This gave me confidence to really get in there to remove mascara without stinging or watering. If you’ve got sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, that reassurance matters.

Removal power: how does it compare to the OG?

Here’s the tea: I love the original Garnier Micellar Water and, performance-wise, this didn’t remove makeup any better. I tested it on waterproof mascara and long-wearing concealer. It still took the same number of soaked-cotton-pad swipes as the original. A few times I actually felt like it was less efficient than I’d hoped makeup budged, but didn’t lift off as cleanly as I wanted on the first pass.

Texture & finish

Lightweight, non-oily, no film that screams “cleansing oil,” but not 100% clean-skin feel either. If you like a slip that keeps skin from feeling tight, you’ll probably enjoy it. If you want that freshly-rinsed, nothing-left-behind vibe, you’ll want to follow with a gel or cream cleanser.

Pros & cons at a glance

Pros

• Safe for face, eyes, and lips

• Ophthalmologically tested, great for sensitive eyes

• Non-greasy feel compared with oil cleansers

• Doesn’t sting or cloud vision when used carefully

Cons

• Fragrance lingers on the skin

• Doesn’t outperform the original Garnier Micellar Water

• Can feel like there’s a slight residue post-cleanse

• Waterproof makeup still needs patience (and multiple swipes)

Final verdict: buy or pass?

All in all, after months of use, I’m… underwhelmed. I wasn’t disappointed, but I wouldn’t repurchase either. If you’re hunting for an affordable, gentle micellar that just works, stick with the original Garnier Micellar Water. It removes makeup just as well (if not better on stubborn bits), doesn’t add a lingering scent, and gives you that reliable, everyday cleanse without drama.

Get your Garnier Micellar Oil-Infused Cleansing Water here.