Mizellen

Mizellen are microscopic clusters of surfactant molecules that form in an aqueous solution. Surfactants are substances that lower the surface tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. Each surfactant molecule has a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. When placed in water, these molecules arrange themselves in a way that minimizes contact between the hydrophobic tails and the water.

In a micelle, the hydrophobic tails are oriented towards the interior of the cluster, forming a non-polar core, while the hydrophilic heads face outwards, interacting with the surrounding water. This structure allows micelles to solubilize hydrophobic substances, such as oils and fats, within their non-polar core. The hydrophilic exterior of the micelle then allows these otherwise insoluble substances to be dispersed in water.

This property is famously utilized in micellar water, a popular skincare product. Micellar water contains a high concentration of micelles, which effectively attract and lift away impurities, makeup, and excess sebum from the skin without the need for harsh rubbing. The effectiveness of micellar water is a direct consequence of the amphiphilic nature of its surfactant components and their ability to form these self-assembling structures.