Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Beauty
Health
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Shoes
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices
Ever felt like your skin gets extra dry on airplanes or starts feeling duller after a long day of work? Whether you need emergency hydration or a four p.m pick me up, face mists are a great way to freshen not just your skin, but also your mood. There are a variety of face mists on the market that cater to different skin types and needs.
In this article, we've crafted a list of the 10 best face mists online, taking into account a variety of factors. At the top of our list was Mario Badescu's Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber, and Green Tea for its antioxidant-rich formula, suitability for most skin types, and hydrating properties. If you'd like tips on how to choose the right face mist for you, feel free to read our Buying Guide reviewed by a professional dermatologist.
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Unlike toners, essences, or serums, which are often focused more on specific skincare concerns, you can use face mists as part of or completely separate from your skincare routine.
Not all ingredients in face mists work well for all skin types. Think about what ingredients will best nourish your skin before choosing a product, and what you want to use your face mist for, whether it be freshening up, hydrating, or protecting the skin.
For those with oily and acne-prone skin, look out for non-comedogenic ingredients, which are ones that are less likely to clog pores and cause oiliness and acne. However, since non-comedogenic isn't a term regulated by the FDA, there's no standard for which ingredients fit the definition. So, be aware of some of the most common non-comedogenic ingredients used in skincare and look for those yourself instead.
Glycerin, aloe vera, and vitamin C are some good ones to keep in mind. Glycerin has great moisturizing abilities, while aloe vera has antibacterial and soothing properties. Vitamin C prevents irritation.
A few comedogenic ingredients to steer clear of are coconut oil, linseed oil, and lanolin. Comedogenic ingredients are often ranked on a scale of one to four, one being the least comedogenic. There are plenty of lists online that you can consult to browse these rankings and take note of any ingredients you want to avoid.
Since non-comedogenic isn't a term regulated by the FDA, there's no standard for which ingredients fit the definition. So, be aware of common non-comedogenic ingredients and search for those yourself instead. Another label you can look out for is the oil-free label. Oil-free face mists are completely free of oils, which can often be comedogenic.
Regardless of the label you're keeping an eye out for, make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure that they are suitable for you. In the same vein, remember that even if your product doesn't have a non-comedogenic or oil-free label, that doesn't necessarily mean it includes comedogenic ingredients or oil.
Avoid sprays with coconut oil if you are acne-prone. These can cause outbreaks of whiteheads, blackheads, and even fungal acne (pityrosporium folliculitis). If you are on an acne regimen with products that are drying, like retinols, retinoids, or AHAs, choose a mist that does not have any witch hazel in it since this can further dry out the skin.
Face mists contain various moisturizers to help refresh and hydrate your skin. Some hydrating ingredients you might frequently encounter include coconut water, thermal spring water, and aloe vera.
Also consider hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane, which are great for preventing moisture loss. In fact, hyaluronic acid can retain more than 1,000 times its weight in water within your skin cells, and glycerin is a similarly effective moisturizer. Squalane can boost moisture levels and maintain the skin's protective barrier, giving your skin a plump, healthy look.
Contrastively, avoid products with short-chain alcohols such as ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. These ingredients are often used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth, but they can actually dry out your skin.
Sensitive skin is tough to please, as it might react to both natural and chemical ingredients. So if you have sensitive skin, try to find a face mist with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like thermal spring water, aloe vera, or vitamin E.
Cucumber and rose water are other ingredients with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory ingredients are superheroes at alleviating redness and itchiness.
It's also important to stay away from potential irritants that are commonly used in cosmetics, such as parabens, alcohols, phthalates, and fragrances. Take caution with essential oils as well. Despite containing various antioxidants, essential oils might irritate or burn your skin.
To be safe, look for products that are dermatologist-tested or intentionally formulated for sensitive skin. These products likely contain ingredients that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions, irritation, or itchiness.
Regardless, remember that since everyone's skin is different, we always recommend you do a patch test before your first application regardless of whether the product is marketed for your particular needs.
If you have a history of eczema, avoid products with essential oils and fragrances. These additives can cause outbreaks of eczema but also cause contact dermatitis, a red and itchy rash in the areas the mist was applied. Look for a mist that has few ingredients if you have sensitive skin.
Stress, aging, lack of sleep, and environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays are a few potential reasons behind blemishes, wrinkles, or a lackluster complexion. This is because these stressors can chip away at the skin's collagen, leaving your skin less plump and elastic.
To reinvigorate your skin, search for antioxidant-rich ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea extract, moringa seed extract, and turmeric. These ingredients can help promote cell growth and accelerate the natural repair processes of your body. Other antioxidants such as niacinamide, vitamin C, and vitamin E are also great skin-brighteners and blemish-reducers.
Green tea face mists have numerous benefits. They can leave the skin looking refreshed and can help with inflammation in the skin. I like green tea in a mist form since it is less likely to irritate the skin than when it is a serum or cream-based form. Additionally, in a mist form, it can give a dewy look to the skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, you might want to look for ingredients that can calm the inflammation associated with acne. For example, rosewater, aloe vera, and green tea all have strong anti-inflammatory properties and can be a great help, and they're also non-comedogenic.
If you struggle with conditions like rosacea or eczema, follow the same guidelines for sensitive skin. This means avoiding any irritating ingredients like alcohols. Thermal spring water is often suitable. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide will hydrate without irritation.
If you're looking for anti-aging and skin-tightening effects, consider ingredients like retinol or vitamin A, which help in skin smoothing and firming, and collagen, which works to repair the skin's elasticity. Moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid also work to maintain a plump skin texture.
Those with a history of eczema or rosacea should avoid mists with alcohol or ethanol as the base. This ingredient can further exacerbate dry skin but can also cause a rosacea flare with red and burning skin.
One of the great benefits of face mists is that they often don't serve just one purpose. On top of moisturizing, toning, or freshening the face, they can also act as makeup primers, setters, or protectants.
Some face mists can act as makeup primers and can be spritzed on before you begin your makeup routine. Examples of such ingredients would be extracts of peppermint or green tea, both of which have anti-inflammatory and skin-smoothing abilities. On the other hand, other mists can work as makeup setting sprays, which help your makeup stay in place and look fresh.
A handful of face mists include SPF, which protects you from UV rays. This is especially convenient because face mists can work as a cooling agent during hot summer days and you can reapply them as you please. Some mists can help shield your skin from free radicals and pollutants and act as a protective barrier. Free radicals and pollutants can cause wrinkles, dullness, sagging, and pigmentation.
Fragrances in face mists can help you feel refreshed, but for those with sensitive skin, fragrances are often potential irritants that should be avoided.
Peppermint, aloe vera, or rose water all have natural scents that may infuse your face mist. Synthetic fragrances are often listed as parfum on the label. While synthetic fragrances tend to irritate sensitive skin more, natural scents can also aggravate the skin.
If you don't have known allergies or reactions to fragrances, you could search for mists with scents that you prefer. However, if you have sensitive, acne-prone, or dry skin, we recommend taking extra caution. We suggest you do a patch test not only to determine if the fragrance irritates your skin but also to see if you like the fragrance on your skin.
If you have a history of contact dermatitis, make sure you check the ingredients to avoid what you are allergic to. If you're not sure and still want to try a new product, spray the mist behind your ear and wait 48 to 72 hours to see if a reaction occurs.
Most face mists will come in non-aerosol spray bottles that can fit in the palm of your hand. This makes most face mists travel-friendly. However, note that there are some face mists that come in aerosol cans to promote more even spraying.
Take caution that some of these bottles can exceed the TSA size guidelines for airplane travel. For this reason, if you want to take your face mist with you on the airplane, make sure it's under 3.4 ounces, which is the TSA maximum liquid limit.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Thayers Facial Mist Witch Hazel | $10.95 Low Mid | Best Rosewater and Witch Hazel Mist for a Dewy Complexion | ||
2 | COOLA Stone Crop Hydrating Mist | $36.00 High Mid | Best SPF Face Mist With Skin-Protecting Antioxidants | ||
3 | Mario Badescu Skin Care Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea | $7.00 Low | Best Cooling Face Mist With Nutrient-Rich Botanicals for Most Skin Types | ||
4 | Caudalie Grape Water Soothing Organic Face Mist | $17.10 Mid | Best Grape Water Face Mist for Dryness and Redness | ||
5 | Supergoop! Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist | $32.00 High Mid | Best Makeup Setting and UV-Protectant Face Mist With SPF 40 | ||
6 | La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water for Sensitive Skin | $12.99 Mid | Best Dermatologist-Tested Face Mist Made for Sensitive Skin | ||
7 | Olay Mist Ultimate Hydration Essence | $12.08 Mid | Best Hydrating and Brightening Mist for a Glowy Look | ||
8 | Garnier Soothing Facial Mist | $7.97 Low Mid | Best Face Mist That Doubles as a Primer and Setting Spray | ||
9 | St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist | $30.00 High Mid | Best Tropical Scented Face Mist With Tanning Properties | ||
10 | MyChelle Dermaceuticals Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist | $18.29 Mid | Best Mist Made With Fruit Enzymes to Brighten and Smooth Skin |
Pros:
Cons:
This facial mist is formulated with botanicals that rejuvenate skin and give you a glowing, dewy complexion. The aloe vera and witch hazel extract help soothe and hydrate your skin. Glycerin adds moisturizing, and rosewater can help your pores look smaller.
Some reviewers mentioned that this mist felt a bit oily on their skin. On the other hand, the majority of reviewers mentioned that the mist was hydrating and left their skin feeling soft and smooth. Many further added that the spray bottle was easy to use.
Pros:
Cons:
This face mist doesn't just provide UVA/UVB protection with its SPF 18 formula, but it also includes a blend of antioxidants and nourishing plant-based ingredients to help protect your skin from blue light, infrared, and pollution. It's alcohol- and fragrance-free, making it an option for those with sensitive skin, too.
Some reviewers noted that the spray nozzle sometimes didn't spray evenly and that the glass bottle was a bit inconvenient as it could break from toppling. Some also noted the scent was overpowering. Still, the majority of users loved how dewy this mist left their faces and liked that it didn't sting their eyes.
Pros:
Cons:
This mist is infused with cucumber essential water to deliver long-lasting and soothing hydration to your skin. The addition of antioxidant-rich ingredients like aloe vera and green tea also helps neutralize the effects of free radicals and rejuvenate dull-looking skin, while peppermint provides a cooling feel.
Some people were not so crazy about the product's added fragrance. On the other hand, many others loved that the spray left their skin feeling smooth, hydrated, and vibrant. Reviewers also mentioned that the product was calming on irritated skin.
Pros:
Cons:
This product is made with 100 percent grape water, which is full of antioxidants and works to reduce redness and dryness. It's packed with minerals and moisturizing polysaccharides to provide a measurable, instant boost in skin hydration.
Some were disappointed that the mist wasn't moisturizing enough for their skin. However, many reviewers were impressed that the mist helped refresh and brighten their skin. Others liked that the product left their face feeling silky-soft and effectively calmed redness and inflammation.
Pros:
Cons:
This face mist acts both as sunscreen and a makeup setter. With SPF 40, you get great UVA/UVB protection. It includes ingredients such as silica silyate to help set makeup and absorb oil, and a polymer from English field mustard and Chinawood oil works to create a barrier to protect your skin from pollution.
Some reviewers noted that this product pilled on their faces after about five hours, and that the bottle had some leakage issues when it was shaken. However, the majority of customers appreciated how quickly the spray absorbed into their skin and helped set makeup. A few also liked the rosemary and mint scent a lot.
Pros:
Cons:
This face mist touts naturally-enriched thermal spring water, which is packed with antioxidants and minerals to help tone and refresh the face. The formula is suitable for those with sensitive skin, as it's dermatologist-tested and recommended and made with no harsh chemicals, pore-clogging ingredients, or added fragrances.
Some reviewers felt it didn't do anything to improve their skin. Nonetheless, many others commented that the product did a great job of calming and soothing their skin. Many others also appreciated that the product sprayed evenly and didn't have anything except water and minerals in its formula.
Pros:
Cons:
This face mist consists of a blend of vitamin B3, aloe leaf, and chamomile, which helps reduce inflammation and redness, fortifies your skin's moisture barrier, and calms the skin. Together, the ingredients brighten your skin and give your face a nice glow.
Some reviewers found the product too lightweight. At the same time, many other reviewers noted the product gave them a much-needed moisture boost without being harsh on their skin. Reviewers also appreciated that the mist was not overly dewy or sticky, and how it was gentle for many with sensitive skin as well.
Pros:
Cons:
Formulated with a blend of anti-aging and hydrating ingredients like rosewater, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, this spray smooths and firms the skin while leaving it with a dewy glow. It's also versatile, as you can use it as a primer, setting spray, or moisturizer.
Some reviewers reported that this product was quite sticky. Meanwhile, many reviewers said this product left their skin feeling silky-soft and smooth, making it great not just for moisturizing but also for makeup priming.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're looking for a face mist that'll also give you a nice summer glow, try this one, infused with tanning agents and hyaluronic acid to both hydrate and tint your skin. Once sprayed, the tanning formula will develop over four to eight hours and lasts for days.
Many reviewers were happy that the product left their faces with a healthy-looking glow, but some noted that it wouldn't be suitable for those looking for a darker tint. Others commented that the mist was refreshing and soaked in instantly and confirmed that their tans developed streak-free.
Pros:
Cons:
This formula is enriched with natural fruit enzymes derived from guava and goji berries to help you rejuvenate your skin and neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. The mangosteen offers vitamin C to help protect against skin irritation, and tumeric adds natural antioxidants to help promote glowing skin.
Although some reviewers complained that the product felt a bit sticky, others were in love with how the mist left their faces feeling fresh and hydrated. Many also liked that the product was free from harsh chemicals and fairly gentle on their skin.
I recommend the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water for Sensitive Skin after procedures such as micro-needling, lasers, or peels. It is very gentle and hydrating, and it instantly relieves the burning or painful sensation of irritation or healing of the skin.
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about face mists.
Dr. Levy says, "Face mists are great to use after a dermatologic procedure like a laser or chemical peel. Sometimes, the skin feels warm and taut after these procedures. A gentle face mist can help provide a cooling sensation and provide gentle moisture to the skin. Some face mists have ingredients that act as anti-inflammatories as well.
The benefit of a mist is that it provides gentle hydration to the skin while also providing a cooling sensation. Face mists are also a great product to have in your bag for after the gym or at the beach since it gives the skin a nice midday glow."
"I think of toner like a prep for your other skincare products," Dr. Levy says. "It helps remove impurities left by washing. It also may have some ingredients in it that can calm inflamed skin, many of which are plant-based. A toner is applied after washing your face and before your anti-aging creams and products.
A face mist, on the other hand, can be used in addition to toner but is not a replacement. A face mist provides gentle hydration to the skin, a cooling sensation for inflamed or irritated skin, and it can leave your skin a glow."
Check out some more skincare products that can help you achieve a flawless complexion.
If you're still feeling a bit lost about where to begin, feel free to take a look at Amazon's top-selling face mists. You'll see some of the items we featured in our list here, as well as other excellent options.
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
No. 1: Thayers|Facial Mist Witch Hazel
No. 2: COOLA|Stone Crop Hydrating Mist
No. 3: Mario Badescu Skin Care|Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea
No. 4: Caudalie |Grape Water Soothing Organic Face Mist
No. 5: Supergoop!|Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Beauty
Health
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Shoes
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices