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 Sensibio H2O micellar 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 Sensibio H2O micellar 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 Sensibio H2O 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, Sensibio H2O contains tiny micelles (a small cluster of cleansing molecules suspended in water,) 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 Sensibio H2O 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.”

Sensibio H2O also refreshes the skin while it cleanses (like a toner) so your face will look smoother and brighter, without irritation. If you choose to use a cleansing water at the end of your day, Lisa advises following up with your regular regimen. "Bioderma Sensibio H2O 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.”

Time was when, if you were in the U.S. you had to travel to Paris or bribe a Paris-bound friend to purchase Bioderma for you. But Beautylish is pleased to announce the launch of the Beautylish Pharmacy where you can now purchase Bioderma Sensibio H2O here in the U.S.!

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.