What a difference a spray makes
A QUICK MIST CAN PAY MAJOR DIVIDENDS FOR YOUR COMPLEXION, SAYS KATIE WRIGHT
GOOD for more than just cooling you down on a hot day, facial mists have come a long way, and now there’s a formula for every skin concern.
These active-packed atomised liquids offer an extra dose of hydration in a fine spray that sinks into the skin quickly, without leaving any residue – no wonder they’re such a crucial part of the fabled 12-step Korean skincare routine.
“A mist is, of course, much lighter than a cream, and can be used throughout the day to top-up hydration levels,” says Seed to Skin founder Jeanette Thottrup.
“Our mists are formulated with super small molecular weight hyaluronic acids and marine ferments, meaning they deliver hydration to the deeper layers of the skin.”
Depending on the ingredients, a mist can help tackle everything from redness and puffiness, to a lacklustre complexion.
But how and when should a mist be used?
“For maximum benefits, use a mist under make-up – I use mine after cleansing the face, before my moisturiser,” Jeanette says.
“In principle, a mist can be used over make-up too, and will still deliver hydration in this way, but if you want to get the most from all the actives, then it is better to spray on bare skin.”
Close your eyes and hold the bottle about 20cm from your face as you spray a few pumps in a circular motion, allowing the tiny droplets to
sink in, before applying your serum or face cream.
You may find you actually need less moisturiser, because your skin is already saturated with all that misty goodness.
So, which mist is best? Here are nine highly-rated buys for whatever your skin concern may be. 1. Seed to Skin The Dew Mist £61, Liberty London
WITH three types of hyaluronic acid and a newly-discovered marine ingredient (t he snappily named pseudoalteromonas exopolysaccharide), this hydro gel mist increases your skin’s ability to retain water, plumping fine lines from the inside out.
Best for: Intense hydration 2. Only Good The Hydrator Mist & Facial Toner
£9.99, Holland and Barrett
CAUGHT the sun? This chamomileinfused spritz from New Zealand clean beauty brand Only Good will soothe and calm parched skin - especially if you keep it in the fridge.
Best for: Soothing redness 3. Soleil Toujours Organic Set + Protect Micro Mist SPF30
£34, Cult Beauty
THE fact is, there’s no such thing as a true ‘once a day’ sunblock. So, if you want to top-up on sun protection without ruining your make-up, a mist is the answer. This ultra-fine organic formula is available in SPF 30 and 50.
Best for: Extra sun protection
4. James Read H2O Tan Mist Face £20
WHETHER real or fake, a tan fades faster on your face than on your body. Fight the fade with this clear gradual tanning mist, which also contains rose water and skinsoothing vitamins.
Best for: Topping up your tan
5. Briogeo Sea Goddess Shimmer Mist £21.50, Cult Beauty
HAPPY with your tan but looking for a little extra sparkle? This multi-use spray from Briogeo is shot through with silver-blue particles, to give your complexion a subtle mermaid-like glow.
Best for: Subtle shimmer 6. Institut Esthederm Cellular Water Mist
£18, Feel Unique
PACKED with antioxidants, this powerful formula acts like a serum, helping to protect the skin from the stressors and free radicals that cause premature ageing.
Best for: Anti-ageing effects 7. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra 8 Daily Soothing Hydrating Concentrate
£13, Escentual
COMBINING La Roche-Posay’s famed thermal water with just eight other ingredients – including allantoin, which soothes irritation – this ultra-light, fragrance-free mist is ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Best for: Sensitive skin 8. Aman Skincare Grounding Desert Dew Face Mist £75
POWERED by damask rose petals and sandalwood (a natural antiinflammatory), this luxury mist also contains homeopathic silver, known to contain properties that calm skin and reduce puffiness.
Best for: Puffy faces
Balance Me Hyaluronic Plumping Mist £16, Beauty Flash
AIR travel can leave your skin feeling extremely dehydrated, but regular blasts with a mini mist can negate the effects of a long haul flight.
Don’t take off without this hyaluronic acid and chamomile-infused spritz in your cabin bag.
Best for: The frazzled frequent flyer