What is the name of the liquid used to dissolve makeup and cleanse the skin?

The liquid used to dissolve makeup and cleanse the skin is micellar water.

Micellar water is a dilute cleansing solution made with surfactant molecules. These molecules arrange themselves into tiny spherical clusters called micelles: their water-attracting ends face outward, while their oil-attracting ends collect sebum, sunscreen, and makeup. A cotton pad can then lift these substances from the skin.

The product became especially associated with French skincare and was developed as a gentle alternative when access to clean water was limited or tap water irritated sensitive skin. Unlike a lotion, serum, or toner, micellar water is primarily a cleanser rather than a moisturizer, treatment, or final balancing step.

Although many formulas are marketed as no-rinse products, people with sensitive or acne-prone skin may prefer rinsing afterward, especially when the formula contains additional fragrance or cleansing agents. Waterproof makeup may also require a dedicated remover because micellar water does not dissolve every cosmetic equally well.