Face sprays have taken over the skincare scene in recent years. Facial mists offer a hipper alternative to toners as a step between cleansing and moisturizing. Now skin mists have moved beyond skin hydration to more complex benefits, such as anti-aging or antipollution safeguards. Some are said to protect your skin from environmental stressors. As consumers look for minimal, no-hassle skincare, the formula makes all the difference in what a face spray can deliver.
Some dermatologists praise mists containing hyaluronic acid, a molecule that helps the skin hold on to moisture. Others recommend formulas with antioxidants such as vitamin E to strengthen the skin barrier, while some say look for tripeptides to combat inflammation.
The exploding popularity of mists can be traced to beauty influencers on social media who use them as the last step in their skincare regimens. Mists, however, have been around longer than the last couple of years. French women have used sprays made from mineral water as part of their beauty routines for decades.
If you’re ready to try a skin mist to help tighten pores before skincare or add a dewy finish to your makeup, here are a few favorites to spritz throughout the day.
Glossier Soothing Face Mist, $15 (click here)
Formulated with a base of rosewater, Glossier’s face mist is as sweet-smelling as it is hydrating. Use under your makeup or as a setting spray to give a dewy glow.
Biossance Squalane + Hyaluronic Toning Mist, $32 (click here)
This facial mist combines moisturizing squalane and hyaluronic acid to hydrate thirsty skin. Plus, it won’t fade or smudge makeup.
Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Mist SPF 30 With Vitamin C, $21 (click here)
This face mist from Supergoop! guards your skin against UV rays, pollution, and daily environmental stressors with a combination of broad-spectrum SPF 30 and antioxidant vitamin C.
La Mer The Mist, $85 (click here)
Refreshing mist from the luxury brand La Mer uses marine botanical extracts to hydrate skin and leaves you feeling revitalized and refreshed.
Primaskin Nano-Formulated Skin Solution, $59.95 (click here)
This mist will moisturize, brighten, and tighten your skin while decreasing pore size. Primaskin promises a full refund if you don’t like the results you see.
Herbivore Botanicals Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist, $16 (click here)
Use as both a toner after cleansing and to boost hydration all day long. A formula of coconut and aloe-leaf water offers natural salicylic acid to help tighten pores and reduce redness.
Fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist, $44 (click here)
The antioxidant-infused formula enlivens your complexion with a brightening, soothing vitamin-packed fruit complex. Take your skincare to the next level with a face mist that contains no skin-stripping sulfates, parabens, or phthalates.
Payot Anti-Pollution Vivifying Mist, $28 (click here)
Hyaluronic acid and an antipollution compound from French beauty brand Payot boost plumpness and protect the skin— for up to 8 hours.