What are Face Mists?
Face mists are water-based skincare products designed to hydrate, refresh, and sometimes deliver active ingredients to the skin. They can serve a variety of purposes, such as soothing irritated skin, boosting radiance, setting makeup, or reinforcing the skin barrier.
The Benefits of Face Mists
- Hydrate and refresh the skin
- Deliver active ingredients to the skin
- Soothe irritated skin
- Boost radiance
- Set makeup
- Reinforce the skin barrier
Choosing the Right Face Mist
The key to finding the best face mist is to identify the specific skin concern you’re trying to address. Ask yourself, what is the concern I am looking to address, and does this product serve that purpose?
Using a Face Mist
Applying a facial mist requires some thought. It’s best to use it after cleansing and before serums to help dampen the skin so your next steps absorb better. You can also use it after makeup to take down that powdery finish, or throughout the day for a little pick-me-up.
Expert Insights
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Charles Puza, MD, “face mists are not all created equal.” He emphasizes that a simple water-based mist can feel refreshing, but if it lacks humectants or occlusives, it may evaporate quickly and even leave skin drier.
The Best Face Mists
- Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blurring & Waterproof Setting Spray – Best Face Mist for Makeup
- Tower 28 Beauty SOS Rescue Spray – Best Face Mist for Redness
- Topicals Clearly Clarifying & Calming Mist for Acne-Prone Skin – Best Face Mist for Acne
Do Face Mists Really Work?
According to Dr. Puza, “yes, face mists really work, but it depends on what you’re expecting them to do and what’s inside them.” A well-formulated mist with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or antioxidants can offer real skincare benefits.
Meet the Dermatologists
Dr. Charles Puza, MD, Dr. Nicole Ruth, MD, and Dr. Luke Maxfield, MD, are board-certified dermatologists who shared their expertise on face mists and skincare.
How to Trust Marie Claire
For over 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. We take your faith in us seriously, and every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
How We Tested
Beauty writer Marisa Petrarca researched and tested countless face mists over the years. She consulted three board-certified dermatologists for insight and evaluated each formula based on ingredients, performance, and TK.
Conclusion
Face mists are a wonderful addition to any skincare routine. With so many options available, it’s easy to find the perfect one for your skin type and concerns.
