# Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Garnier SkinActive](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/garnier-skinactive)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/makeup-removers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing benefits for your oily skin, as cyclopentasiloxane and argania spinosa oil effectively dissolve makeup and impurities, though the emollient oils may not specifically target excess shine.
- The formula is generally safe for your oily skin, with argania spinosa oil and argania spinosa kernel oil providing emollient action without causing irritation.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like Argania Spinosa Oil.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Argania Spinosa Oil, Micellar Technology, Astaxanthin Extract, Cyclopentasiloxane, Decyl Glucoside

## What the research says

- Topical application of an argan oil NLC-based hydrogel formulation increased skin hydration in healthy volunteers over a one-month period through a synergistic effect of NLC occlusion and argan oil hydration. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25143733/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- Incorporating allantoin into argan oil enriched liposomes improved its accumulation in the dermis (~8.7μg/cm(2)) and permeation through the skin (~33μg/cm(2)) compared to conventional liposomes, water dispersion, and a commercial gel. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27063848/))
- Polymeric micelles of oleanolic acid applied around the eyes of 23 female subjects for 8 weeks significantly improved all five optical profilometry skin parameters and visual evaluation scores without causing skin irritation. ([Nanoscale Research Letters, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32572634/))
- The overall unpleasant sensations score improved by 47.7%, 57.9%, and 62.7% at D2, D14, and D28 respectively compared to baseline in 400 individuals using a micellar solution. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471366/))
- Optimized vinpocetine-loaded TPGS-ALA micelles enhanced transdermal skin penetration compared with raw vinpocetine transdermal film formulation. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30587983/))
- Oral astaxanthin supplementation significantly restored moisture content and improved elasticity but did not significantly decrease wrinkle depth compared to placebo in humans. ([Nutrients, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34578794/))
- Combining oral and topical astaxanthin in 30 healthy females improved skin wrinkles, age spots, elasticity, texture, and moisture, while 6 mg daily oral supplementation in 36 healthy males improved crow's feet wrinkles, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/))
- Twice-daily application of a novel topical antioxidant formulation safe, well-tolerated, and effective in improving overall skin quality, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, and hyperpigmentation in 32 healthy female subjects over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37608511/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this micellar water is highly effective at removing stubborn and waterproof makeup, and is frequently noted for being gentle and hydrating for dry and sensitive skin types. Some users with oily or blemish-prone skin report a greasy residue after use, and a smaller number of reviews mention concerns about fragrance and the number of ingredients.

- Liked: Removes waterproof makeup (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and nourishing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves greasy residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Contains fragrance (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unnecessary ingredients (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine. Start 3×/week and increase to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. It prepares your skin by melting away excess oil and makeup.
- Gently press a small amount onto your dry skin using your fingertips. Massage softly and avoid harsh rubbing to protect your pores.
- Apply this product on dry skin to effectively break down heavy makeup and surface oil. Massage it gently before washing it off with water.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin feels comfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Garnier Micellar Water in Oil work for oily skin?

This makeup remover works well enough for your oily skin to lift away makeup and impurities, though it does not target excess shine. It is unlikely to cause irritation because it lacks harsh ingredients, but an oily skin type needs lightweight or oil-controlling cleansers to keep the skin fresh and clear.

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for oily skin?

Cyclopentasiloxane and argania spinosa oil make this cleanser a decent fit by dissolving makeup and impurities without causing irritation. However, oily skin needs a makeup remover that includes oil-controlling ingredients to manage excess shine.

### What does Argan Oil do for oily skin?

Argan oil has a higher oleic acid amount which may be detrimental for oily skin, as natural plant oils with higher oleic acid amounts can harm the skin barrier. Oily skin needs plant oils with a higher linoleic acid to oleic acid ratio that provide better skin-barrier repair potential.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28707186/)

### What does Micellar Water do for oily skin?

Micellar water helps clean oily skin gently without leaving it dry or irritated. Using it as part of your daily routine removes dirt and excess oil while keeping your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32623833/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your regular cleanser, as well as in your weekly routine. Oily skin works best with cleansers containing ingredients like salicylic acid or clay that help control excess shine.

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before your cleanser and treatment, but because it contains oils that may not target excess shine, oily skin often needs lightweight, oil-free cleansers and mattifying ingredients to control extra oil.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine to wipe away makeup and impurities. Oily skin works best with a cleanser containing purifying ingredients that target excess shine and gently balance oil.

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and uses oils that are generally safe and non-irritating. However, because it leaves a greasy feel, oily skin often needs a lightweight, oil-free formula with ingredients that help control excess shine.
Sources: [Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/)

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol, benzyl salicylate, geraniol, limonene, linalool, and parfum).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 179.45 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.65 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-skin) — High fit — AED 35.29 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 32.20 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B07FZLBDWP?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: AED 18.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.ae/p/garnier-micellar-water-oil-infused-facial-cleanser-100ml/12436082/)
Prices checked 18 Oct – 31 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isohexadecane, Argania Spinosa Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ci 60725, Violet 2, Decyl Glucoside, Dipotassium Phosphate, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Astaxanthin Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Limonene, Linalool, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Potassium Phosphate, Sodium Chloride, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/garnier-skinactive/micellar-cleansing-water-in-oil/for/oily-skin (this page)