lunchtime beauty q&a

Lunchtime Beauty Q&A: Is a ‘Face Mist’ Better Than Using Water?

Photo: Evian

Q: How does a cosmetic “facial mist” work differently than spraying water (like Evian’s bottled mist) onto my face?

A: Spraying mineral water on your face feels refreshing for a minute, but only hydrates it temporarily. “Your skin will actually be drier once the water evaporates,” says dermatologist Ellen Marmur of New York’s Marmur Medical, “unless you put an emollient moisturizer on top while the skin is still damp to lock in that moisture.” Meanwhile, a specialized facial toner or mist like Fresh Rose Marigold Floral Water, DDF Aloe Toning Complex, or Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Perfecting Water Moisture Mist is infused with hydrators like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that remain on the skin (once the water has dried) to keep skin hydrated. “Many of them also have anti-inflammatory ingredients such as rosewater, cucumber, chamomile, or aloe that help to calm redness and irritation.” Our advice: Keep them at your office for a midday refresh. 

Q&A: Is a ‘Face Mist’ Better Than Using Water?