Lamelin Camellia Deep Cleansing Water

A cleansing water uses micellar technology — tiny oil-based particles suspended in water that attract and lift away makeup, dirt, and excess oil when wiped across the skin with a cotton pad. Unlike a face wash, it requires no water and no rinsing. It cleanses without disrupting the skin's moisture barrier, which makes it gentler than foaming or gel cleansers, and practical for quick daily use or as a first-cleanse step before a second cleanser.

It will remove everyday makeup — foundation, blush, non-waterproof mascara, and lip products — effectively. For waterproof eye makeup specifically (waterproof mascara, long-wear eyeliner), micellar waters in general require longer contact time and more passes with the cotton pad to fully dissolve the silicone-based formulas used in waterproof products. For heavy or waterproof eye makeup, a dedicated oil-based eye makeup remover or cleansing oil as a first step will perform more reliably, with this cleansing water following as a second pass.

Camellia japonica — the same plant behind camellia oil, widely used in Japanese and Korean skincare — is known for its emollient and antioxidant properties. In a cleansing water formula, it contributes a soothing, conditioning quality that offsets the slight dryness some micellar cleansers can leave behind. It helps the skin feel balanced rather than stripped after cleansing. The formula lists it as Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, meaning it is derived specifically from the flower rather than the seed oil.

No — it is formulated as a no-rinse product for daily use. Soak a cotton pad, wipe gently across the face and eye area, and repeat until the pad comes away clean. For those who prefer a double-cleanse routine — particularly if wearing heavier makeup or SPF — this works well as the first step, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser with water. For light daily use with minimal makeup, a single pass without rinsing is sufficient.

The formula is designed for daily use including sensitive skin, and the no-rinse micellar format is inherently gentler than surfactant-based cleansers that can disrupt the skin barrier. The eye area can be cleansed with it — soak the cotton pad and hold it gently against closed eyes for a few seconds before wiping, rather than rubbing. The formula contains fragrance, which some sensitive skin types may find irritating around the eye area; if you have fragrance sensitivity, patch test on the inner wrist first.

At 34.30 GEL for 500ml, the cost-per-use is low for a daily makeup removal product. Cleansing waters are used generously — typically two to three cotton pads per session — so volume matters more here than with serums or ampoules where a small amount goes a long way. A 500ml format at this price point works out to a practical everyday option that doesn't need rationing, which is exactly how cleansing water should be used to work effectively.

Yes — this is actually where micellar cleansing water performs best. Use it first to dissolve and lift makeup, SPF, and surface impurities, then follow with a water-based cleanser (low-pH gel or foam cleanser) to remove any remaining residue and thoroughly cleanse the pores. This two-step approach is the foundation of Korean skincare's double-cleanse method and ensures the skin is properly prepared for the rest of the routine without over-stripping. For evenings with minimal makeup, this alone is sufficient.