Soothing Serum Mists That Hydrate Under Or Over Make-up

If soothing serum mists aren’t on your radar yet, let us introduce you to the numerous reasons why they should be. Within seconds, they calm the skin, refresh the mind and give your complexion a stunning glowy boost. But there’s more. Serum mists are also formulated with fantastic active ingredients that make them work as hard as a traditional serum or toner.   

Do you need one? 

Here’s why a serum mist could be what your routine is missing.

What does a serum mist do?

Think of serum mists as supercharged facial mists. Along with cooling you down on a hot summer’s day, they also deliver potent ingredients to your skin.  

Texture-wise, they tend to feel less like traditional serums and more like watery mists, making them light and refreshing. This makes them a great pick if you have an oily skin type or prefer products with lighter textures. But generally, you can find one to suit your needs, regardless of your skin type.  

It’s best to use your hydrating mist immediately post-cleansing. Then, apply your serum of choice, or jump straight to moisturiser.  

If the air around you is dry (due to the climate where you live or even central heating or air conditioning), applying moisturiser after you mist is especially important. When exposed to dry air, the mist could evaporate quickly, often drawing moisture from your skin and drying it out. A layer of face cream will act as a barrier to trap moisture and keep the skin plump and hydrated. 

What are skincare mists used for?

You can try many types of skincare mists – some are designed to refresh and hydrate, and others may also cater to specific skin concerns.  

Don’t confuse skincare mists with setting sprays, though. The latter is used on top of make-up to set your foundation and concealer. Instead, skincare mists often double up as toner and can be used on freshly cleansed skin, but they are also great for on-the-go applications to refresh foundation that might have turned a little dull or for skin that feels dry. 

When you’re picking a skincare mist, look for ingredients that act as moisture magnets – hyaluronic acid, glycerine and humectants are all great candidates. You could also look for more specific ingredients, depending on your skin concerns. For instance, niacinamide helps diminish dullness, AHAs help brighten and refine, and various plant extracts help nourish and soften the skin. 

Our favourite serum mists to try

My Clarins REFRESH Hydrating Beauty Mist

If your skin is feeling dehydrated and needs a moisture boost, try the My Clarins REFRESH Hydrating Beauty Mist, £18.50. As its name suggests, it delivers the ultimate refreshing hydration boost. The spray dispenses an ultra-fine mist that also leaves behind a subtle, invigorating scent.  

Plus, it’s got loads of great ingredients that your skin will love – coconut water, Alpenrose extract, hydrating fig extract, robina flower water and acerola seed extract. Together, they work to soften the skin and flood it with moisture. 

Allies of Skin Molecular Saviour Probiotics Treatment Mist

We also love the Allies of Skin Molecular Saviour Probiotics Treatment Mist, £62. This hydrating spray is perfect for anyone who wants their face mist to help refine their skin tone and texture. It’s got 5% niacinamide, the ingredient that’s known to revive dull skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Additionally, it also contains probiotics, silver, zinc, mango and acai fruit extract that ensure the skin microbiome remains healthy and nourished. 

Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Hydrating Multi-Protection Mist

The Hydra-Essentiel Multi-Protection Mist, £26, is a beauty editor-favourite for good reason. It has hydrating hyaluronic acid, organic leaf of life and houseleek extracts. But along with just adding moisture, it also creates a protective veil on your skin that shields against pollution and other environmental aggressors.  

Should I use a face mist every day?

You could use a facial mist every day or even multiple times a day. We often reach for our facial mists when we’re looking for a midday pick-me-up (also known as a “beauty snack”).  

Do you wipe off facial mist?

To ensure your skin benefits from all the lovely ingredients your face mist contains, it’s best to avoid wiping it off. However, if you’re using it to eliminate the dehydrating salts and minerals from your tap water, you could wipe it away with a cotton pad (try a reusable one – we like these from Medik8). Then, give your face another spritz before moving on to your moisturiser. 

Can a face mist replace moisturiser?

A face mist cannot replace moisturiser. If you find traditional moisturisers too heavy for your skin type, look for lighter gel-based formulations. However, a good serum mist could replace your serum or toner if you prefer a minimal, no-frills routine.