16 Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Ethical, Effective Cleansing 

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Ready to give your skin some tender love and care while staying true to your compassionate values?

Let’s dive into the world of cruelty-free beauty and discover the top cruelty-free micellar water that will leave your conscience as clear as your radiant complexion!

Young woman using cotton pad with micellar water indoors

We’ve scoured the beauty world to bring you a handpicked selection of micellar water that suits all skin types and budgets and is also PETA- or Leaping Bunny-certified!  

Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Micellar Water for Waterproof Makeup
Best Overall
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Unscented formula
  • Vegan and cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free Kitty)
Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Water
Budget Pick
  • Triple-purified water
  • Infused with vitamins B3 and C
  • Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free and vegan
Pacifica Beauty Cactus Water Micellar Cleansing Tonic
Premium Pick
  • Contains cactus, calendula, and grapefruit water
  • Free from harmful chemicals and vegan
  • Cruelty-free (Beauty Without Bunnies)

16 Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for All Skin Types

1
Pacifica Beauty Cactus Water Micellar Cleansing Tonic

Featuring a  blend of cactus and floral waters packed with skin-loving ingredients, this micellar water leaves skin feeling cool and rejuvenated.

Primary Benefits: Removes makeup and any dirt; toning and hydrating; removes skin impurities

Features:

  • Contains cactus, calendula, and grapefruit water
  • Free from harmful chemicals and vegan
  • Cruelty-free (Beauty Without Bunnies)

A powerful yet gentle cleanser that removes stubborn dirt, oil, impurities, and makeup without stripping or over-drying.

This 100% cruelty-free and vegan micellar water from Pacifica Beauty is suitable for all skin types. It’s an innovative tonic water that lifts away dirt, oil, impurities, and makeup.

The product is infused with cactus, calendula, and grapefruit water, which additionally helps calm and soothe skin irritations without drying it.

It’s gentle and works on all skin types.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by PETA.

Top-Selling Cruelty-Free Makeup Water 

2
Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Micellar Water for Waterproof Makeup

Garnier's micellar technology acts like a magnet, effortlessly dissolving dirt, oil, and makeup without any harsh rubbing or rinsing. 

Primary Benefits: Refreshing and hydrating; lifts away dirt, excess oil, and makeup; leaves skin revitalized

Features: 

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Unscented formula
  • Vegan and cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free Kitty)

Its gentle and fragrance-free formula ensures a soothing and non-irritating experience.

Garnier’s cruelty-free micellar water is specifically formulated to be effective and tough on dirt and makeup but gentle on your skin.

This multitasking wonder is safe to use around the eye area and removes waterproof mascara, leaving no residue and without irritating your skin.

It’s made with naturally derived ingredients and works on all skin types.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by Leaping Bunny according to Garnier’s official website and is listed on Cruelty-Free Kitty. However, their parent company, L’Oreal, still tests on animals.

Top Cruelty-Free Drugstore Micellar Water

3
NYX Professional Makeup Micellar Water Stripped Off

Easily strip off your makeup at the end of the day with this cruelty-free micellar water from NYX Professional Makeup.

Primary Benefits: Gently removes dirt and impurities; revitalizes skin; unclogs pores

Features:

  • Free from harmful chemicals
  • Refreshing scent
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free

If you want a makeup remover to pair with your facial cleanser, this effective micellar water from NYX is a good choice.

NYX Professional Makeup Micellar Water features micelle molecules that help lift and remove makeup and dirt.

It also has a delightfully refreshing scent that revitalizes the skin, unclogs the pores, and ensures a bright and clean complexion.

Plus, it’s cruelty-free and free from harsh chemicals.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, certified by PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Budget-Friendly Micellar Water

4
Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water

True to its name, Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water is gentle and kind to your skin, removing impurities while nourishing your face. 

Primary Benefits: Gently removes skin contaminants; soothes the skin; boosts skin hydration

Features:

  • Triple-purified water
  • Infused with vitamins B3 and C
  • Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free and vegan

Unlock the secret to clean, healthy-looking skin, and say hello to a complexion that feels refreshed, revived, and perfectly balanced.

Certified cruelty-free by PETA, it’s the perfect addition to your skincare routine, offering a hassle-free and gentle cleanse that doesn’t compromise performance.

Whether you’re removing makeup, refreshing your skin in the morning, or simply giving your face a quick cleanse before bed, Simple’s Micellar Cleansing Water is your go-to solution.

It’s dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and cruelty-free.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Maintaining Youthful Skin

5
Nuria Hydrate Micellar Water

This cruelty-free micellar water contains natural ingredients to help remove impurities while helping you retain youthful, glowing skin.

Primary Benefits: Cleanses and removes makeup and dirt; softens and smoothens skin; purifies and refreshes skin

Features:

  • Contains sage leaf oil, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile
  • Made with glycerin to smooth skin
  • Tested by a dermatologist, free from parabens
  • Vegan and Leaping Bunny-certified cruelty-free

This plant-based facial cleansing product is clean, effective and cruelty-free.

This plant-based, cruelty-free micellar water is packed with skin-loving ingredients and is tough on dirt, makeup, and impurities, leaving skin clean and refreshed.

It contains sage leaf oil, aloe leaf juice, chamomile, and glycerin to help soothe and moisturize the skin as it removes makeup and ensures skin stays soft without any residue.

It also helps boost overall skin condition and fight free radicals, ensuring that your skin isn’t just clean but healthy too.

It’s kind to animals, free from parabens and sulfates, and vegan.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it’s certified by Leaping Bunny.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Pore Refining

6
Dickinson's Micellar Witch Hazel

This innovative micellar water harnesses the power of witch hazel to effectively cleanse and refine your pores, leaving your skin feeling fresh and revitalized.

Primary Benefits: Removes makeup and dirt; refines and tightens pores; soothes the skin

Features:

  • 100% natural witch hazel 
  • Contains aloe extract
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free and vegan

Dickinson's Micellar Witch Hazel is your secret weapon for pore refinement and a smoother complexion.

This vegan and cruelty-free micellar water is specially formulated with a blend of micellar technology and witch hazel extract. 

The micelles act as gentle magnets, attracting and lifting away dirt, oil, and impurities, while witch hazel, a natural astringent, tightens and minimizes the appearance of pores.

The result? Cleaner, clearer skin with a refined texture.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by PETA.

Top Hydrating and Moisturizing Cruelty-Free Micellar Water

7
Drunk Elephant E-Rase Milki Micellar Water

Experience the refreshing and nourishing effects of Drunk Elephant’s E-Rase Milki Micellar Water, the ultimate hydrating and moisturizing solution for your skin.

Primary Benefits: Gently cleanses the skin; hydrates and moisturizes; supports skin's natural barrier.

Features:

  • Contains a 3-ceramide (AP, NP, and EP) blend 
  • Made with wild melon seed oil and marula oil 
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free

Treat your skin to the ultimate hydration and moisturization with this luxurious micellar water.

Drunk Elephant’s E-Rase Milki Micellar Water is powered by a unique blend of micellar technology and skin-loving ingredients that are both vegan and cruelty-free. 

The product is infused with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E and fatty acid-rich marula oil, and not only cleanses but also replenishes your skin’s hydration levels.

Moreover, it maintains your skin’s moisture barrier, leaving it soft, supple, and visibly plump.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Skin Conditioning

8
Glossier Milky Oil

We love the dual-phase formula of Glossier Milky Oil that combines the power of micellar water and lightweight oil to cleanse, nourish, and pamper your skin.

Primary Benefits: Easily dissolves makeup and dirt; conditions skin; treats irritated skin

Features:

  • Contains comfrey root extract
  • Infused with pro-vitamin B5
  • Leaping Bunny-certified cruelty-free

It effortlessly melts away makeup, dirt, and impurities while providing deep skin hydration and conditioning.

This no-rinse micellar water contains pro-vitamin B5 for extra hydration and comfrey root extract to treat and calm irritated skin. 

Additionally, this cruelty-free and vegan product restores and maintains your skin’s natural moisture balance, leaving skin feeling supple, smooth, and oh-so-velvety.

Due to its unique blend of micellar water and conditioning oils, Glossier Milky Oil is perfect for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by Leaping Bunny.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Allergy-Prone Skin

9
Yes To Cotton Comforting Micellar Cleansing Water

Yes To Cotton Comforting Micellar Cleansing Water is the perfect match for allergy-prone skin seeking a gentle, moisturizing, and soothing cleansing experience. 

Primary Benefits: Whisks away skin impurities; moisturizes the skin; softens dehydrated and irritated skin.

Features:

  • Contains cottonseed oil and aloe leaf juice
  • Infused with niacinamide
  • Cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free Kitty)

With cottonseed extract and micellar technology, it can effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup while respecting your skin's sensitivities.

Designed for allergy-prone skin, Yes To Cotton Comforting Micellar Cleansing Water is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and irritants. 

It’s made with cruelty-free and natural ingredients complemented with a lightweight and non-greasy formula. 

This micellar water glides effortlessly and leaves the skin refreshed while effectively removing dirt, oil, and makeup while respecting your skin’s sensitivities. 

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Vegan Micellar Water 

10
100% Pure Rose Micellar Cleansing Water

With its gentle yet effective formula, 100% Pure Rose Micellar Cleansing Water effortlessly sweeps away dirt, oil, and impurities, leaving your skin pure, balanced, and effortlessly clean.

Primary Benefits: Gently rinses makeup off; soothes, tones, and purifies the skin; fights signs of aging

Features:

  • Contains rose water and cornflower water
  • Infused with lemon and grape extract 
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free

This micellar water is the crème de la crème of vegan beauty that will take your skincare routine to the next level.

100% Pure Rose Micellar Cleansing Water is a testament to clean beauty as it is proudly vegan and cruelty-free. 

This one-step cleanser offers an easy way to remove dirt, oil, traces of makeup, and impurities while reducing redness and improving skin tone, thanks to its powerful blend of skin-calming and hydrating floral waters. 

Plus, it contains grape extract, which is an antioxidant that can provide natural anti-aging benefits.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is certified by PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water With Probiotics

11
MIZON Micellar Cleansing Water

This product is made with an effective plant-derived complex and prebiotics to remove deep-seated dirt while restoring balance and radiance. 

Primary Benefits: Removes dirt and unclogs pores; retains moisture and strengthens the skin barrier; exfoliates dead skin cells

Features:

  • Contains probiotics 
  • Formulated with a patented plant-derived complex 
  • Dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free Soul)

Every application is a quick swipe of micellar goodness and a gentle cleansing experience that won't dry out your skin.

Say hello to the gentle yet effective cleansing power of probiotics.

This cruelty-free micellar water is packed with a patented plant-derived complex that works wonders in maintaining the skin’s natural harmony while effortlessly removing makeup, dirt, and impurities.

Regular use reveals a complexion with a radiant and healthy glow.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is listed on Cruelty-Free Soul, but the brand has currently not listed any statement about their cruelty-free stance.

Top Natural Cruelty-Free Micellar Water 

12
Balance Me Flash Cleanse Micellar Water

This fuss-free, cruelty-free micellar water from Balance Me removes makeup while boosting hydration and radiation.

Primary Benefits: Boosts skin hydration; removes makeup and pollution; refreshes skin and leaves skin plump

Features:

  • Clinically proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid and blackberry leaf extract
  • 100% natural and safe even for sensitive skin
  • Cruelty-free (Ethical Elephant) 

If you want something effective for removing stubborn makeup but gentle on the skin, try this cruelty-free cleanser that’s 100% natural.

Balance Me believes that skincare is self-care, so they create effective and all-natural products. This cruelty-free micellar water is an example.

It’s a fuss-free cleanser that removes pollution and makeup, including stubborn eye makeup, while boosting hydration and radiance.

It contains 100% natural ingredients like blackberry leaf extract, hyaluronic acid, and tripeptide complex to keep skin glowing and youthful. 

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it’s listed on Ethical Elephant. The brand has no cruelty-free certifications, but their website states that they don’t test on animals.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Dry Skin

13
Burt's Bees Micellar Facial Cleansing Water

Burt's Bees Micellar Facial Cleansing Water instantly relieves dryness and transforms flaky skin into a dewy and luminous complexion. 

Primary Benefits: Effectively removes skin impurities; hydrates and tones the skin; unclogs pores

Features:

  • Contains coconut and lotus extract
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Leaping Bunny-certified cruelty-free

With a blend of powerful botanicals, this micellar water provides your skin with the nourishment and moisture it craves. 

Experience the gentle cleansing and burst of hydration of Burt’s Bees Micellar Facial Cleansing Water.

Infused with coconut extract to draw in hydration and seal it within your skin’s layers and lotus extract to soothe and calm irritations, leaving your skin balanced and oh-so-comfortable.

Plus, the product is free from parabens, phthalates, petroleum, and SLS.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it’s certified by Leaping Bunny. 

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Plumping the Skin

14
Marcelle Micellar Water

This gentle yet effective formula lifts stubborn dirt and makeup while deeply hydrating the skin to reveal a youthful and radiant glow.

Primary Benefits: Gently cleanses dirt and skin impurities; effectively removes makeup; soothes and hydrates the skin

Features:

  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Hypoallergenic
  • PETA-certified cruelty-free

With everyday use, your skin comes to life with a radiant and revitalized glow.

Marcelle Micellar Water goes beyond cleansing.

This product is enriched with hyaluronic acid that helps bind and lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and primed for the next step in your skincare regimen. 

Most importantly, Marcelle is PETA-certified cruelty-free, ensuring a guilt-free cleansing and skin-plumping experience. 

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it’s certified by PETA.

Top Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin 

15
Kumiko Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water

This cruelty-free micellar water hydrates and refreshes the skin and is made with natural ingredients.

Primary Benefits: Removes excess oil; cleanses and hydrates; boosts collagen production

Features:

  • Contains almond oil, organic matcha tea extract, and Echinacea flower extract
  • Safe for all skin types
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

This cruelty-free micellar water is designed to whisk away makeup and impurities to isolate and eliminate oil and dirt for a smooth and clear complexion.

This gentle yet effective cruelty-free cleanser is made with natural ingredients, including almond oil, organic matcha tea extract, and echinacea flower extract, to remove excess oil and boost collagen production for clean and plump skin.

It’s enriched with chamomile, cucumber, and aloe vera, giving this product a gentle and relaxing spa-like scent.

It’s hydrating, suitable for all skin types, and can even double as a face toner.

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it’s certified by PETA.

Top Clean Cruelty-Free Micellar Water

16
ROVECTIN Clean Marine Micellar Deep Cleansing Water

ROVECTIN Clean Marine Micellar Deep Cleansing Water is your secret weapon for a refreshingly clean and deeply purified complexion. 

Primary Benefits: Removes makeup and impurities; hydrates the skin; unclogs pores

Features:

  • Hawaiian deep sea water and Israel Dead Sea salt 
  • Seven different layers of hyaluronic acid
  • Nine marine plants from Jeju and Wando Islands
  • Cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free Kitty)

This micellar water is infused with healthy ingredients and delivers a boost of hydration and nourishment to your skin.

ROVECTIN Clean Marine Micellar Deep Cleansing Water is not your average micellar water. Thanks to its marine-inspired ingredients and cutting-edge technology, it takes cleansing to the next level.

Powered by the goodness of nutrient-rich seawater, it effortlessly sweeps away dirt, impurities, and even stubborn makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. 

Infused with hyaluronic acid, this cruelty-free cleansing water keeps your skin super-hydrated for a refreshed and revitalized complexion, ready to conquer the day!

Is it cruelty-free? Yes, it is listed on Cruelty-Free Kitty. The brand has no certifications, but their official website states that they’re cruelty-free.

A bottle of micellar water and a cotton pads on a pink background.

What To Look for in a Cruelty-Free Micellar Water

Selecting the right cruelty-free micellar water involves considering several factors to ensure the product meets your specific needs and preferences.

Cruelty-Free Status

Cruelty-free certifications from reputable organizations such as Leaping Bunny and PETA are essential indicators of a brand’s commitment to ethical practices. 

These certifications serve as a trustworthy assurance that the brand has undergone rigorous scrutiny and adheres to stringent standards regarding animal testing. 

More on this later!

Ingredient Transparency and Ethics

Look at the brand’s ingredients and transparency. Choose brands that disclose their ingredient lists, avoid harmful or controversial ingredients, and prioritize ethical sourcing.

Look for cruelty-free micellar waters that are also free from parabens, sulfates, and other potentially harmful substances.

Skin Type and Specific Needs

Consider your skin type when selecting cruelty-free micellar water. If you have sensitive skin, choose a gentle formula with all-natural ingredients.

If you have problems with breakouts, you can try micellar water with probiotics or a product that helps remove excess oil.

Price

Many cruelty-free brands offer affordable choices. These budget-friendly options make cruelty-free beauty accessible to a broader range of consumers. 

You can buy drugstore brands that provide excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of high-end alternatives. 

Then again, if budget is not a concern, you can find premium brands with innovative ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging. 

Woman's hands pouring micellar water on cotton pad in front of mirror at bathroom.

Ensuring a Product Is Cruelty-Free

How do you know that a product is cruelty-free?

Cruelty-Free Certifications

The easiest way is to check if they have cruelty-free logos from reputable organizations that ensure brands don’t test on animals at any point in their manufacturing process. 

These organizations include the following: 

  • Leaping Bunny — Leaping Bunny is considered the gold standard for cruelty-free certification, created and operated by the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics (CCIC).

    The Leaping Bunny logo features a jumping rabbit.
  • PETA — PETA’s cruelty-free certification program, which is called Beauty Without Bunnies, helps consumers choose cruelty-free cosmetics and household products.

    The cruelty-free logo from this program has the PETA logo and a bunny.
  • Choose Cruelty-Free — Seeing the CCF or Choose Cruelty-Free logo on a product also means you are buying a certified cruelty-free product.

    This is a certification from Australia, so you may only see it in the United States when purchasing Australian beauty products.

However, it’s also important to note that while certifications are great, many cruelty-free products aren’t certified as the FDA does not regulate cruelty-free labels. 

And some brands don’t pay the licensing fee to use the cruelty-free logo on their packaging. 

Some may also have in-house anti-animal testing policies and exercise transparency with their product manufacturing process. 

Online Cruelty-Free Databases

There are also other ways to determine if a brand is cruelty-free even without the certification on their brand.

Search for the brand’s name on an online cruelty-free database, there are several, like CrueltyFree Kitty, Cruelty-Free International, Ethical Elephant, or Cruelty-Free Soul.

Or try an app like the Cruelty-Free Shopping Guide by Leaping Bunny to help you look for the product brand you are considering or find certified cruelty-free alternatives.

The Brand’s Website

Check the brand’s website to see if they have a clear statement against animal testing and confirm that they don’t test on animals or work with manufacturers who do. 

Be wary of vague statements, and look for specific language indicating a commitment against animal testing at all stages of product development.

Also, you may email the company and ask them about their manufacturing process. 

Young woman using cotton pad with micellar water on beige background

FAQs 

Can I Use Cruelty-Free Micellar Water Alone, or Do I Need Another Cleanser?

While cruelty-free micellar water is a diligent cleanser, it is always a good idea to double-cleanse after a long day of wearing makeup to thoroughly remove all the product and dirt build-up accumulated throughout the day. 

Just remember to choose the product that suits your skin type and has additional ingredients that target your skin concerns.

Are Cruelty-Free Micellar Waters Environmentally Friendly?

Unfortunately, not all vegan and cruelty-free products are also eco-friendly. 

Nevertheless, many cruelty-free brands strive to be eco-conscious by using sustainable packaging, avoiding harmful chemicals, and supporting ethical sourcing.

Embracing Cruelty-Free Micellar Water for a Compassionate Cleansing Experience 

By opting for cruelty-free micellar water, you prioritize your skincare needs while making a conscious decision to support brands that uphold ethical practices.

Plus, micellar water is a testament to the wonders of science and innovation, creating a must-have beauty product for every skincare regimen.

Look through our recommendations and see which cleanser suits your skincare needs, and feel free to experiment until you find one that supports your skin. Once you do, it’ll likely become a mainstay in your skincare routine.

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Author

  • Michelle Alejandro

    Michelle has had a lifelong love affair with makeup. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Communications /Journalism, she began an illustrious career as a writer. Michelle penned a beauty and lifestyle national newspaper column for over a decade and became the Beauty Editor for Chalk Magazine and Editor-in-Chief for Metro Weddings for over nine years, working with some of the biggest makeup artists and trusted beauty brands in the business. During this time, she also completed a course in Creative Artistic Makeup Design and worked as a freelance makeup artist, beauty editor, and writer.

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