Thanks to Caroline Hirons and her love for a hydrating facial mist, they have blown up in recent years, becoming a more popular step in peoples skincare routines. But in the realm of skincare, there’s a constant influx of new products promising radiant, glowing skin. So how do we know if the facial mist is a worthy step? Or is it just over-rated skincare hype?
These refreshing spritzes claim to hydrate, tone, and revitalize the skin with just a few sprays. But amidst the hype, many wonder: are facial mists really worth it?
I started off using Caudalies beauty elixir mist back in 2016, which I would spritz on my skin before my makeup (if you’ve never heard of this product, it’s not raved about for nothing let me tell you that!). I’m personally a big fan of the hydrating mist – I feel like I’ve reaped benefits myself, so I’m definitely in the team facial spritz camp.
With my own personal experience in mind, I’m delving into the science and benefits behind these misty marvels (and the best ones to try):
Hydration Boost
Facial mists are formulated with water-based ingredients like purified water, herbal extracts, and essential oils. When sprayed onto the skin, they provide an instant burst of hydration, making them ideal for refreshing your complexion throughout the day. This hydration boost can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin, and can be a god send for going on holiday.
A popular ingredient in facial mists is hyaluronic acid, which is a crucial ingredient for hydrating. The problem some skincare professionals have with HA is when the molecules are too big, and can’t always penetrate into the skin. Some argue that HA is best applied to damp skin, and in facial mist world, it’s best to use a low molecular weight mist which allows the Hyaluronic Acid to penetrate the surface, drawing moisture deeper into the skin. One like Balance Me Hyaluronic Plumping Mist, or the By Beauty Bay Hyaluronic Acid and Sea Moss Facial Mist, which have HA as key ingredients to boost dewiness.
On this note, I always apply HA serums or moisturisers to slightly damp skin so it can absorb deeper, so I do like to use a HA mist to dampen the skin, and then apply a HA serum/moisturiser on top of it.
Enhanced Product Absorption
Which leads me perfectly onto this point. One of the lesser-known benefits of facial mists is their ability to enhance the absorption of subsequent skincare products. By lightly dampening the skin before applying serums, moisturisers, or oils, facial mists help to create a moist environment that allows these products to penetrate more effectively. This means you get more bang for your buck from your skincare routine, as the active ingredients are better absorbed and utilized by the skin.
Here’s a tip: if you’re skin isn’t too problematic, like extremely dry and parched or aging, you don’t need a pricey facial mist at all. The best cheap one I can hand on heart recommend is the Superdrug Vitamin C Facial Spritz – it is £4.99 and it’s the one I use everyday, plus I use it on makeup clients skin before applying foundation. I also like to spritz it on top of makeup too, when skin looks parched and dry and could do with that touch of dewiness.
Soothing and Refreshing
Aside from their skincare benefits, facial mists offer a sensory experience that can be incredibly soothing and refreshing. Many mists are infused with botanical extracts like rosewater, chamomile, or aloe vera, which have calming and anti-inflammatory properties. A quick spritz can provide instant relief from redness, irritation, or discomfort, making it a handy companion for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
On-the-Go Convenience
Another selling point of facial mists is their convenience factor. Packaged in portable spray bottles, they’re perfect for on-the-go hydration and skincare touch-ups. Whether you’re travelling, spending a long day at the office, or simply need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, a quick spritz of facial mist can instantly rejuvenate your skin and your spirits. I always find they give me a glow boost!
If you’re unsure about the right one for your skin type or skin concerns, rose water facial mists are always a great failsafe. They will calm the skin, refresh and add a dewy glow, and rose water is really good for enlarged pores, too. The Fresh Rose Instant Hydration Mist is a personal favourite…
Setting Makeup
In addition to their skincare benefits, some facial mists can also double as makeup setting sprays. By lightly misting your face after applying makeup, you can help to set your products in place for longer-lasting wear. If you can get a facial mist setting spray that has additional benefits – like brightening ones packed with vitamin c – you get added bonuses!
I always recommend the Urban Decay All Nighter Vitamin C Cactus Flower Water spray for setting makeup, and giving that boost of glow. I adore it, I do bridal makeup as a job alongside running parlor, and this mist is my staple.
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The Verdict: Worth the Hype?
So, are facial mists really worth it? The answer ultimately depends on your skincare needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a convenient way to hydrate and refresh your skin on the go, a facial mist could be a worthwhile addition to your routine. Likewise, if you struggle with dryness, redness, or sensitivity, a mist formulated with soothing ingredients may provide the relief you’re seeking.
If you want to improve your skins hydration and let your products work better, my personal opinion is that you do really need a facial mist in your regime. Especially if you are applying Hyaluronic Acid products, which work best on damp skin.
However, if you already have a comprehensive skincare routine in place and don’t feel the need for additional hydration or refreshment, a facial mist may not be essential for you. It’s all about finding what works best for your skin and incorporating products that address your specific concerns and preferences. It looks like they definitely have pros, with little to no cons, so its worth adding in (only if you wish to).
Don’t expect much in the way of scent from them though. They don’t offer this. If you’re looking for Oud based fragrances, then go elsewhere. As with most products, they can’t do everything you want them to do, so you’ll still need to have others in your stack
In conclusion, while facial mists aren’t necessarily a skincare essential if you’re trying to scrimp on beauty costs, or you have very youthful and hydrated skin, they can certainly be a beneficial and enjoyable addition to your routine. Whether you’re looking for a quick hydration boost, a soothing pick-me-up, or a convenient way to set your makeup, a well-formulated facial mist could be just the skincare secret you’ve been searching for.
