Hannah Hartz is a Chicago-based esthetician with 7 years' experience. She currently works at CaTara Med Spa. Here, Hartz writes about whether or not face mists are a beauty must-have.
To mist or not to mist? That is the question on everyone’s mind as facial mists continue to rise in popularity and make their way onto our shelves. Sure, they’re super refreshing, but are they really helping our skin? While some swear by adding a facial mist into their daily routine, others will tell you it adds nothing at all. So today we dig into that truth once and for all.
What are facial mists?
Facial mists are water-based sprays that typically contain supplemental hydrating ingredients, as well as a variety of essential oils and extracts to uplift, rejuvenate or calm the skin. While they don’t have any highly active, skin-changing ingredients, some people love them for their refreshing and hydrating effects.
What benefits do facial mists have?
Despite not being the skincare hero you may desperately need, your mist can still offer a strong supporting role in the overall health and appearance of your skin. Here are some fun ways a facial mist can give you a boost throughout the day:
Extra Nutrients
Although your mist won't be providing any highly concentrated actives such as retinol, a couple spritzes through the day is a great way to deliver a nice extra supply of nutrients and hydration to the skin. Common ingredients in facial mists are beneficial essential oils, Hyaluronic Acid and necessary antioxidants.
Airplane Pick-Me-Up
With humidity levels comparable to an arid desert, airplane travel can pose quite the detriment to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. The best ways to use your mist in flight is under a sheet mask or in conjunction with moisturizer in order to allow the mask and moisturizer to draw in the benefits of the mist. Bring a travel-sized mist with you on the flightand you will be sure to lock in extra moisture!
Midday Perk
A rough day at work gets even rougher when you pop into the bathroom and notice your skin is starting to look dull and tired. Keeping a facial mist on hand helps to alleviate the situation by providing a lovely, dewy glow to perk you right up. Plus, essential oils can provide aromatherapeutic benefits for extra zest!
Calming & Soothing
If you are experiencing irritated skin, sometimes the last thing you want to do is rub something into your face. Find a facial mist with soothing ingredients, such as aloe or rosewater, to help remedy this.
Oil Control Through the Day
Do you tend to get that midday shine (not the good kind)? Many people, even after cleansing, toning and doing the works a few hours into the day, are left with a not-so-exciting oily revival. Wiping away the excess oil is really just not a viable option, especially if you are at work and wearing makeup. Facial mists that contain witch hazel, salicylic acid and rosemary or mint-based essential oils can help to tone the pores and minimize oiliness throughout the day!