We know that skincare can be intimidating! Some routines have many steps with different products that target various skin concerns. It can be difficult to determine which products you actually need and which ones you can do without. Personally, I was unconvinced about mists for so long, but am now converted! So, let's talk about this under-reported skincare super player: the face mist!

Which face mist is best for you?

Micellar water, rose water, floral essences: there are so many options for refreshing mist in the hot summer months! But which one is best for your skin? And what do you need to know before using any face mist? Let's take a closer look.

Do mists do anything for the skin?

The answer is: it depends on the ingredients. If your mist contains only water (or worse, just alcohol), then it's not going to do much for your skin except maybe help set makeup or temporarily refresh you on a hot day. However, if your mist contains humectant ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera, that's a whole different story!

When it comes to face mists, there are two main types: those with humectant ingredients and those without. Humectants, like glycerin, help to draw moisture from the environment to the skin. So, if you have a wonderful flower water, or hydrosol, with a humectant those droplets of lovely hydration will not evaporate away taking your skins natural hydration with it!

However, not all face mists contain humectants. If you live in a very dry climate or tend to have dry skin, you may want to consider using a mist that does contain glycerin or another type of hydrating ingredient.

Now that we know a bit more about the different types of face mists available, when in your skincare routine can you add a mist? The answer is: any time! A face mist can be a great way to start your day by adding a bit of extra hydration before applying makeup or sunscreen. It can also be used throughout the day, as a pick-me-up, or to set makeup.

What other ingredients can you look for in a mist?

Aromatherapeutic Ingredients: Depending on the formulation, you can get an extra mood boost from aromatherapy! If the mist is made from a hydrosol, popular ingredients include lavender, chamomile, tangerine and rose. Lavender is a great way to start your day, or to use before bed for a relaxing mist. Chamomile can be used throughout the day for its calming properties, while rose is perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up. Tangerine is an energizing fragrance, and safe on the skin, however, you should avoid lemon or other citrus oils as they can be photo-sensitizing.

Botanicals: Herbs and botanicals can also be added to a face mist for their beneficial properties. Aloe vera is a popular ingredient as it is hydrating and soothing, while green tea can provide antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants in skincare help to protect the skin from environmental damage, and can also help to brighten the complexion.

Polyhydroxy Acids: If you are looking for something to help control breakouts, a mild exfoliant like gluconolactone and lactobionic acid (PHAs) are gentle enough for daily use. Polyhydroxy acids are larger molecules than AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) so they don't penetrate as deeply into the skin, making them a good choice for those with sensitive skin. Pregnancy and nursing women should avoid using products with AHAs, though milder PHAs are considered safe.

Barrier Repair Actives: Co-enzyme Q10, niacinamide, and tocopherol (vitamin E) are all ingredients that help to support the skin's natural barrier function. A weakened skin barrier can lead to dryness, sensitivity, and a decrease in the skin's ability to protect itself from environmental damage. If you live in a big city, we highly recommend adding a barrier repair boosting mist into your routine, it's easy to pop into a purse or backpack as an on-the-go skincare boost.

So, what face mist is best for you?

It depends on your individual needs! Long story short: if you have dry skin, look for a product with humectants. If you have oily or combination skin, you may want to consider a product with botanicals or PHAs. And, if you are looking for an all-purpose mist, one with barrier repair actives would be a great choice! No matter what your needs, there is a face mist out there for you!

Now that you know a bit more about face mists, why not give one a try? You may just find that it's your new favourite step in your skincare routine. It's an easy on-the-go product that can be used anytime, anywhere! And, with so many different types available, there's sure to be one that's perfect for you. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and find your perfect face mist today!