What Are Face Mists?

Face mists are skincare products that spray on your skin to refresh, soothe, hydrate, decrease inflammation, and repair damage. You can use them as the first step in your skincare routine, after applying your makeup to set your look, or during the day to revitalize your complexion.

Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner explains,

“Face mists are unique because they can be used as your first layer in your skincare routine, or they can be used as the last time or for retouches during the day [1].”

In this article, we’ll give you all the information you need about face mists, and explain how to choose the right brand for you. In addition, we’ll tell you our list of the best face mists as evaluated by our team of dermatologists and skincare experts.

What Are the Benefits?

  • Face mists can soothe and refresh the skin.
  • These products provide an antioxidant boost for skin repair.
  • Some face mists have powerful essential oils which offer aromatherapy benefits.
  • Facial mists can protect the skin from environmental agents like pollution and UV rays.
  • These products can deeply hydrate the complexion.

Our Top Face Mists

Best Face Mist Overall Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist
Best Facial Spray Mario Badescu Skin Care Facial Spray
Best Face mists For Sensitive Skin Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water
Best for Poreless Skin Caudalie Beauty Elixir
Best for Irritated Skin Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Best for Anti-aging Peach & Lily Glass Skin Veil Mist
Best for Glowing Skin Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist
Best for Skin Brightening Pixi Rose Glow Mist
Best Luxury La Mer The Mist
Best for dryness ILIA Blue Light Protect + Set Mist
Best for long lasting hydration Laneige Cream Skin Mist
Best for Purified Skin Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist
Best for long lasting hydration Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist

It’s important to note that not every Face Mist will work for everyone, and your results may vary.

Which Face Mist Should I Use?

Are you ready to hear about some of the Best Face Mists on the market? We’ve researched numerous brands to seek out the most promising products in the industry. Here we present the Best Face Mists available today.

Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist

The Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist will impart a natural looking, customizable tan to your complexion within 4-6 hours of application. Its effortless application method, in combination with the moisturizing properties of the highly regarded Hyaluronic acid, can provide you with a Bali-inspired tan while avoiding harmful sun damage. The water-based formulation and absence of dyes help this Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist go on transparently.

The Reviewers Say:

This tanning spray is simply fantastic! The fragrance is delightful. It has a refreshing minty aroma that I adore. The application process was flawless with no streaking or problems. I highly recommend this product. ~Rachh

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 2.7 fl oz (80 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Beauty By Earth


Mario Badescu Skin Care Facial Spray

The Mario Badescu Skin Care Facial Spray features the hydrating benefits of Rosewater and Aloe Vera. This multi-purpose product effectively revitalizes dehydrated skin, promoting a radiant and healthy glow. Its formula contains Thyme Extract, renowned for its clarifying properties, resulting in improved skin clarity and revitalization. This extraordinary facial mist will help to re-energize and rejuvenate the skin.

The Reviewers Say:

Spritzing my face with this product throughout the day has become one of my favorite routines. It gives a refreshing sensation and moisturizes the skin. The inclusion of Aloe Vera offers a soothing effect, while the delightful fragrance of Rose creates a pleasant aroma. ~Patricia M.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 4 fl oz (118 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Mario Badescu


Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water

The Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray offers immediate relief and soothing benefits for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Its unique mineral-rich composition, enriched with trace elements, effectively conditions the skin without drying it out. The presence of silica provides a soft and comfortable feeling for an instant sensation of well-being. Incorporating this spray into your beauty routine after cleansing the face helps remove residual impurities and prepares the skin for more straightforward application of skincare products.

The Reviewers Say:

One of the things I appreciate about this product is that I can use it both before and after applying makeup. My sister, who is an aesthetician, introduced me to it. Being in the heat of Florida, I find that spraying it on my skin restores the necessary moisture it needs. ~Robin Lightman

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Avène


Caudalie Beauty Elixir

The Caudalie’s renowned Beauty Elixir is a vegan hydrating facial mist that visibly enhances the skin’s natural glow, tightens pores, and serves as a beautiful dewy mist setting spray for makeup and it is adored by many. Cruelty-free and vegan, its natural ingredients consist of green grape and orange blossom water and a collection of essential oils including peppermint, rose, lemon balm and rosemary. These ingredients work together to provide maximum hydration and increase skin radiance.

The Reviewers Say:

This Face Mist from Caudalie is simply amazing. I have tried other products, but this one has impressed me more. During the summer months, I like to store it in the fridge for an immediate refreshing sensation! ~Lindsay

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Caudalie


Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

The Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray is a daily rescue spray designed to soothe, purify, and repair irritated skin. This product is crafted from 100% herbal ingredients, dermatologically examined and clinically proven. It has even received the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance™, making it safe for all skin types.

The Reviewers Say:

I purchased the smaller-sized bottle of this product, and although it’s almost empty, I’m thrilled to say that my skin is now clear and free from any redness, irritation, or itchiness. I am planning on purchasing more of this product in the future! ~Shannon

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 4 fl oz (120 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Tower 28


Peach & Lily Glass Skin Veil Mist

The Peach & Lily Glass Skin Veil Mist is a non-toxic, silicone-free hydrating mist that offers an instant glass skin look and keeps skin replenished with hydration, antioxidants, and calming ingredients. It can be spritzed throughout the day to maintain a glassy look despite daily skin stressors. Wear it on bare skin for a hydrated, glassy veil or apply it under/over makeup as a skin-improving highlighter.

The Reviewers Say:

I find this hydrating mist very refreshing. It’s versatile and I use it as a final step in my morning and evening skincare routine, to set my makeup, and even keep a bottle on my desk to spritz throughout the day. ~Michele B.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 3.38 fl oz (100 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Peach & Lily


Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

The Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist is a quick-absorbing moisturizing spray that provides an immediate surge of hydration to your skin. Its smooth texture allows for use under or over makeup, making it perfect for achieving radiant skin on the go. This facial mist results in a soft, dewy, and refreshed complexion that feels delightful.

The Reviewers Say:

If you’re looking for a skin mist that works excellent as a makeup primer provides extra moisture, this is the perfect choice. I love how it enhances my skin’s look and feel. ~Sarah J.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 1.35 fl oz (40 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Tatcha


Pixi Rose Glow Mist

The Pixi Rose Glow Mist is Formulated with vital fatty acids and antioxidants this elixir with a dual-phase feature offers a natural radiance to the skin. Its nourishing properties enhance the skin’s elasticity, provide hydration, and offer protection against harmful free radicals. This product is appropriate for all skin types, and is free from parabens.

The Reviewers Say:

I adore this product! Not only does it leave my skin feeling soft radiant, but it also has a pleasant scent that I enjoy. Even though I don’t wear makeup, this product still works wonders in giving me a beautiful glow I love. ~Emilsa G.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 2.7 fl oz (80 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Pixi


La Mer The Mist

La Mer the Mist is a revitalizing face mist that is made with nourishing waters that effectively heal, hydrate, and balance dry skin. Its unique negative ion-rich formula helps to boost skin’s energy and revitalize tired-looking skin. Packed with botanical and marine extracts, it soothes irritations, relaxes dry lines, and restores skin’s appearance. Use it after exposure to the sun, wind, or other dehydrating conditions or shaving for a calm and invigorated feeling. Suitable for both men and women.

The Reviewers Say:

This mist is genuinely unique! It’s so refreshing and I can’t get enough of it. I love using it throughout the day because it never fails to leave my skin feeling rejuvenated and glowing. In my opinion, it’s an absolute must-have! ~Daisy

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 3.4 fl oz (100 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: La Mer


ILIA Blue Light Protect + Set Mist

The ILIA Blue Light Protect + Set Mist is a 3-in-1 mist that doesn’t feel sticky and effectively hydrates the skin, sets makeup, and protects against the harmful effects of blue light and pollution. Its ultra-fine spray creates a weightless barrier that strengthens the skin’s resistance to environmental stressors. Plus, it has a natural lavender scent and gives a pleasant feel when applied.

The Reviewers Say:

I’m in love with this setting spray! As someone who works from home and spends a lot of time looking at screens, I appreciate the protection it provides to my skin. ~Bryana

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 1.69 fl oz (50 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: ILIA


Laneige Cream Skin Mist

The Laneige Cream Skin Mist is the perfect solution for those who want to stay hydrated on the go! Infused with White Leaf Tea Water, it provides deep and long lasting moisture for up to 24 hours. Its lightweight formula is enriched with amino acids that help to strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The super-fine mist evenly distributes a natural-looking glow, making it ideal for both makeup wearers and those who prefer a natural look.

The Reviewers Say:

This product is fantastic! It’s perfect when I’m in a rush and need to hydrate my skin on-the-go quickly. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s appearance after using it. ~Rosanna M.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 2.5 fl oz (75 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Laneige


Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist

The Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist is a must-have for anyone looking for a quick skin refresh and mood uplift. Inspired by the world’s first recorded perfume, it’s perfect for a midday pick-me-up or as a post-cleanse toner. Infused with gentle neroli and rose scents, this facial mist instantly hydrates and balances the skin. Its Orange Blossom, Rose & Sage distillates purifies and tone the skin, improving its firmness, suppleness, and youthfulness.

The Reviewers Say:

This product is incredibly comforting and nourishing for the skin. It’s gentle enough to use even when my skin is irritated and the scent is fantastic. It provides a gentle and soothing level of hydration, which I love. Overall, I’m impressed with this product! ~Sarah

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Omorovicza


Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist

The Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist is enriched with a delightful blend of 84% watermelon, hyaluronic acid, and hibiscus AHAs, providing a refreshing sensation to your skin while also enhancing your makeup. Before use, give it a good shake to blend the nourishing oil layer with the water-based active extracts. This will create a mist that delivers a haze of hydrating, softening, smoothing, and illuminating benefits to your skin.

The Reviewers Say:

Having combination skin, finding a product that effectively hydrates the drier areas without causing acne on my sensitive skin has been difficult. However, this product has been excellent! It works great for me and I haven’t experienced any breakouts. ~Courteney H.

Key Facts

Container Type: Spray Bottle | Size: 2.53 fl oz (75 ml) | Form: Liquid | Brand: Glow Recipe


How Did We Evaluate Face Mists?

To come up with our list of the best facial face mists on the market today, our team of board-certified dermatologists evaluated dozens of brands and ranked them according to a strict set of criteria.

Here are the most important features the team looked at, and they are the same factors you should examine when evaluating products on your own:

The Manufacturer Has A Strong Reputation

In general, the team looked for brands made by well-regarded, established companies that have a solid reputation for producing quality, safe skincare. Some little-known brands offer good products, but as a general rule it’s better to buy from a known company.

The Ingredients Are Safe, Organic, and Backed By Science

Our dermatologists looked for products with pure organic formulas, free of harmful chemical or artificial additives, parabens, or sulfates that could irritate the complexion. They selected products with included ingredients that had benefits backed by scientific studies.

Customers Gave Positive Feedback About the Product/Brand

The customer reviews provide a wealth of information about a product, including its pros and cons, side effects, or any relevant issues. All of the products we recommended got excellent feedback from users.

The Manufacturer Follows Strict Safety Practices

We only selected brands that carry out their production, testing, and packaging in an FDA-registered facility and follow GMP safety guidelines.

The Company Has A Generous Return Policy or Guarantee

A company that has faith in the quality of its their products will give you enough time to try them to see if they are suitable for you. We provided high points to brands that offer at least a 30-60-day return policy or guarantee.

The Product Has High Value for the Price

The prices of face mists vary depending on the brand, but our team focused on what the products offered and whether it was worth the price the company was asking for.

How Do They Work?

Face mists are very high in hydrating ingredients which deeply moisturize the complexion and help alleviate dryness. The extra liquid can also plump up the skin, making wrinkles and fine lines less prominent as we explained in our review of the best skin-tightening creams.

A review published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by and Frédéric Bonté explored the molecular mechanisms of skin hydration [2].

Mists also offer an excellent skin refresh during the day. Some face mists help to strengthen the moisture barrier to keep hydration inside for longer moisturizing benefits. The barrier also helps to keep out germs and bacteria.

A review by Peter M. Elias, MD published in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports discussed research about skin barrier function [3].

These formulas are high in anti-inflammatory agents, which decrease redness and swelling on the skin, soothe, and may help to heal some skin conditions. They are generally very antioxidant-rich, meaning they eliminate free radicals and lower levels of oxidative stress.

This promotes healing and repair of the skin barrier, improves the immunity of the skin, and provides protection from the sun’s rays and other agents like dust and pollution.

A review article published in Frontiers in Pharmacology by Spencer Dunaway, et al examined the mechanisms by which antioxidants protect the skin from solar radiation [4].

What Are Some of the Ingredients to Look For?

These are some of the key ingredients you should look for in the best face mists:

Hyaluronic Acid

This is a gel-like substance which is in our eyes, connective tissue, and skin, but as we age levels decline. It can the ability to draw massive amounts of liquid, which moisturizes the skin and gets rid of dryness.

It’s ideal for a facial mist as it refreshes and hydrates, so some of the best face mists for dry skin include this ingredient. The hydration gets under your skin and plumps it up, giving it more volume and smoothing signs of age like wrinkles and fine lines.

A review of the research published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules by Syed Nasir Abbas Bukhari, et al discussed the highly beneficial effects of hyaluronic acid in cosmetics and nutricosmetics [5].

Rose Water

Made by immersing rose petals in water, this ingredient is very refreshing and hydrating to the skin. It has strong anti-inflammatory benefits, which help to soothe inflamed skin and heal issues like eczema.

Rose water also slows sebum production, making it an ideal ingredient in the best face mist for oily skin products. It helps to lessen and prevent acne breakouts.

A study by Romain Duroux, et al published in Molecules concluded that rose extract protects the skin against stress mediators, and one factor is its calming scent [6].

Hyaluronic Acid

This is a gel-like substance that exists naturally in the skin, eyes, and connective tissue, and it’s a humectant. This means it draws massive amounts of liquid to moisturize the skin, get rid of dryness, and plump to smooth signs of age.

An article published in Dermato-Endocrinology by Eleni PapakonstantinouMichael Roth, and George Karakiulakis discussed the anti-aging properties of hyaluronic acid [6].

Niacinamide

This is Vitamin B3, a potent nutrient which has numerous skin benefits, like shrinking the size of the pores, eliminating signs of age, and strengthening the moisture barrier to keep your skin hydrated.

Niacinamide also has antioxidant potential, which helps to repair damage to the skin barrier and protect the complexion from UV rays and other harmful environmental agents.

A review published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology by Johannes Wohlrab and Daniela Kreft discussed the benefits and mechanisms of niacinamide and its topical use in dermatology [7].

Aloe Vera

This is an oil derived from the leaves of the aloe plant, which is deeply hydrating for the skin. It helps plump to smooth signs of age on the complexion, and it also has powerful anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants which help to heal wounds and skin conditions.

A systematic review by Davood Hekmatpou, PhD, et al. published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences concluded that aloe vera has skin hydrating and wound repair benefits [8].

How Do You Use a Face Mist?

Face mists are easy to use – just hold the bottle about 20 centimeters away from your face and spritz a couple of times. You can close your eyes if you like, but the mist is not harmful.

You can use facial mist spray for makeup setting, before your skincare routine, or during the day to refresh your skin as often as you like.

FAQs

Q: Are Facial Mists Good For Your Skin?

A: Yes, face mists provide several skin benefits including deep hydration, repair of the skin barrier, soothing, decreasing inflammation, and protecting from environmental agents like UV rays or pollution.

Q: Which Facial Mist is Best?

A: All of the facial mists that our dermatologists have recommended in this article are effective, quality products, but our favorite is the light and hydrating Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist, made with rare Damask rosewater as a primary ingredient.

Q: What is Face Mist Used For?

A: Face mist serves several purposes, including preparing your skin before your skincare routine, setting your makeup, refreshing and soothing your complexion during the day, or repairing skin barrier damage.

Q: Is It Okay to Use Face Mist Every Day?

A: Yes! Find a facial mist you love and you can use it daily, several times if you like, as a good product is unlikely to cause any irritation. In fact, using face mist daily can give your complexion a real health boost.

Q: Which is Better, Face Mist or Toner?

A: These are two completely different products, and you should include both in your skincare routine. Toner removes dead skin cells and dirt from the pores and prepares your skin for your moisturizer, while face mist is more of a daily soother or refresher for the complexion.

Quick Comparison Table

Product Rating Best For Key Ingredients Return Policy
Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face MistBeauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face MistPrice. $90.00 Rating Best hydrating face mist Coconut Oil, Witch Hazel extract, Shea Butter, Pomegranate extract 60-Day Money Back Guarantee
Omorovicza Queen of Hungary MistOmorovicza Queen of Hungary MistPrice. $50.99 Rating Best for Purified Skin Yeast Extract, Linalool, Geraniol, Citronellol 14-Day Return Policy
Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring WaterEau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring WaterPrice. $25 Rating Best face mist for glowing skin Water (Avène Thermal Spring Water), Nitrogen 60-Day Return Policy
Caudalie Beauty ElixirCaudalie Beauty ElixirPrice. $57.99 Rating Best antioxidant-rich face mist Organic Grape Water 30-Day Return Policy

Face Mists Review

Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Water Bronzing Face Mist is a product that we particularly love for its rich formula, deep hydration and gentle, light scent. On the official website, with 60 reviews the product got a rating of 4.9 stars from customers. On the whole, Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Water Bronzing Face Mist got a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Target with 49 reviews. On Amazon, 4.5 rating with 315 reviews and Walmart with 4.8 rating with 24 reviews.

The top review on the official site comes from Alexis C, who loved both the benefits and the scent of the spray:

“Super easy to use and goes on very light weight but the color depth doesn’t sink in and I can’t notice a bug differenxe unless I use 2-3 coats.”

The lowest rating we found was from Elizabeth, who gave the product 4 out of 5 stars and said the mist keeps her skin hydrated and glowing:

Rose Mist

I am a sunaholic and decided to try out the Rose Mist. It seems to give my skin a nice healthy glow. I use it in the morning before I put on my face cream. My skin seems to be more hydrated!!

Conclusion

The best face mists provide the skin with deep hydration, soothe, decrease inflammation, repair the skin barrier, and refresh your complexion during the day. You can use them as the first step in your skin care routine, after makeup, and anytime during the day to freshen your complexion.

In this article, we have given you all of the information you need to choose the best face mist for you, including our list of best facial mist dermatologist recommended products chosen by our team of professionals. All of the selections we chose use quality, science-backed ingredients and are highly-regarded, safe brands.

We’re certain that you’ll be able to find the optimal face mist for your daily routine from among our selections, and to compare with other products use our list of criteria. If you want to have a look at other skin hydrating products, read through our article on the best facial oils.

Hae Shin Chung, MD, PhD

By Hae Shin Chung, MD, PhD

Hae Shin Chung, MD, PhD is Yonsei University Severance Hospital trained physician who is also a Board Certified Dermatologist practicing in general skin diseases, cosmetic, laser and surgical dermatology in the Cheungdam-dong area in South Korea since 2004.

13 sources

[1] The 16 Best Face Mists For Instant Hydration, According To Experts: https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/beauty/best-face-mists
[2] Skin Hydration: A Review On Its Molecular Mechanisms: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17524122/
[3] Skin Barrier Function: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2843412/
[4] Natural Antioxidants: Multiple Mechanisms to Protect Skin From Solar Radiation: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00392/full
[5] Hyaluronic Acid, A Promising Skin Rejuvenating Biomedicine: A Review Of Recent Updates And Pre-Clinical And Clinical Investigations On Cosmetic And Nutricosmetic Effects: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S014181301833770X
[6] A Rose Extract Protects the Skin against Stress Mediators: A Potential Role of Olfactory Receptors:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7587601/
[7] Niacinamide - Mechanisms Of Action And Its Topical Use In Dermatology: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24993939/
[8] The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6330525/
[9] Skin Anti-Inflammatory Activity Of Rose Petal Extract (Rosa Gallica) Through Reduction Of MAPK Signaling Pathway: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6261181/
[10] Hyaluronic Acid: A Key Molecule In Skin Aging: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
[11] Aloe Vera: A Short Review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/
[12] The Grape Antioxidant Resveratrol for Skin Disorders: Promise, Prospects, and Challenges: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3060966/
[13] Formulation and Evaluation of Face Mist Preparations from Plant Extracts: A Literature Review: https://hmpublisher.com/index.php/AMCR/article/view/210