If you are a certain age, you will remember how popular facial toners were in the 80’s and 90’s. Clinique®, a pioneer in the skincare marketplace, made the toner a “must” in a three-step skincare regimen years ago. Recently, however, the use of these facial liquid toners have fallen to the wayside for various reasons, one of which is that most of these toners really did not serve any valuable therapeutic benefit for the skin, except for de-greasing the skin. They were refreshing and momentarily hydrating, and some touted being able to restore the natural pH of the skin, but most toners of yesteryear were mostly alcohol-based and evaporated quickly off the skin, without leaving anything of therapeutic benefit behind. In recent years, the pendulum has swung back, and the toner market has made a contemporary shift with the introduction of hydrating facial mists, the new, revitalizing toners of today. These facial mists are still great as a refresher, especially during the hot summer temperatures of late, and because they do not contain alcohol, they do not strip the skin and actually provide an extra layer of hydration. They come in convenient, elegant spray bottles, where a quick spritz onto your face after cleansing and before moisturizing will set the foundation for a luminous, hydrated look. During the winter months, this extra layer of moisture will benefit the driest skin, and can be spritzed throughout the day.
Numerous cosmetic companies, including prestige brands like La Mer® and Amore Pacific®, have jumped on the “facial mist” bandwagon but more expensive does not mean better. Not only is being aware of your skin type and your skin needs very important, but paying close attention to the ingredient list is essential. These active ingredients in facial mists include botanical extracts such as green tea, rose, or daisy, moisturizing elements like hyaluronic acid, squalene, or aloe, minerals and vitamins, and therapeutic ingredients like glycolic acid, which is like a mild chemical peel being spritzed on your face. (A glycolic acid facial spray would be more appropriate for acne-prone, oilier skin, since it can penetrate deeper into the skin to exfoliate dead skin cells.) If your skin is more on the sensitive side, make sure your facial spray doesn’t contain any alcohol. Any sprays that contain alcohol will irritate your skin and result in dryness and fine lines. Although many facial mists soothe the olfactory zones like aromatherapy, avoiding facial mists with heavy fragrance may be key to preventing an allergic reaction or irritation.
Across the board, a hydrating facial mist will work for any skin type. It will add an extra element of moisture while refreshing dull skin and enhancing tone and texture. It can also be a wonderful tool to set your make-up in the morning or refresh it throughout the day. A great antioxidant facial spray, Replenix® Soothing Antioxidant Mist is not only refreshing, but it is also loaded with beneficial ingredients to help rejuvenate skin. The Replenix® Mist’s formula boasts sea salt, witch hazel, vitamin C, chamomile, and green tea. The sea salt works to enhance texture and tone, while working on the pores. Witch hazel removes oils and leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. And vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. The application is simple and easy. The formula of the mist is so fine that it is absorbed quickly and leaves you feeling dewy and refreshed. Sprays containing antioxidants are ideal because they prevent damage caused by free radicals, which result in fine lines and photo-aging. Also, don’t forget about Avène® Thermal Spring Water, which we blogged about a few weeks ago. The thermal spring water in this therapeutic gem delivers a neutral pH, reduces skin sensitivity, and helps restore skin balance.
Although facial mists are not an essential part of skincare in the HDC books, it may be a refreshing addition to your daily regimen. Try it out and let us know your thoughts. We would love to hear.
-Senada and Dr. H
Thermal Spring Water Is More Than Just H2O: Power of Water Part I
Micellar Water Could Be Your Skin’s Best Friend: Power of Water Part II
