Facial sprays can be used to achieve a perfect, glowing complexion—and treat problem skin—throughout the day

You’ve been living under a rock if you haven’t yet heard the almost deafening buzz around facial mists and sprays. It seems virtually every brand either has one or is launching one lately (Tatcha, REN and Tata Harper recently). But why the big hubbub? Well, for one, they’re kind of a miraculous product, now packed with enough actives to really provide visible results. “Mists are great for all skin types,” says Chanel Janae, vice president and co-owner of Arcona, the LA-based skincare brand that’s truly wonder-working. “There are mists to help balance the skin, mists that use essential oils and/or aromatherapy to calm the mind and body, and mists that help address oiliness and congestion.”

Contrary to somewhat popular belief, they’re not just throwaway products that simply provide a cool-down in the summertime—although they are quite refreshing. “Most mists are going to be somewhat hydrating—the water in facial mists will immediately plump and hydrate wrinkles, helping to minimize crepe-y fine lines,” says Janae. REN’s Tonic Moisture Mist even includes hyaluronic acid, the popular skin plumping ingredient, for added moisturizing effects. In addition, adds Janae, “you may want to look for additional botanicals, antioxidants or even SPF, depending on your specific concern.”

“Fending off free radical damage with potent antioxidants (chlorophyll, vitamin C and E, green tea) will help protect the skin and aid your anti-aging routine.” Additionally, says the skincare guru, mineral water or ionic minerals rebalance skin (like in Omorovicza’s Queen of Hungary Mist); sodium PCA (an ingredient that aids in moisture retention like in Tatcha’s Luminous Dewy Skin Mist) restores hydration; and lavender helps de-stressing. Try spraying on Arcona’s Lavender Hydrasol two to three times daily (and before bed) for skin-balancing and tension-reducing results. Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir, with rosemary, bitter orange flower water and mint is energizing when used anytime.

While toners can used to remove residue from the skin post-cleanse or deliver additional antioxidants, facial sprays “impart beneficial ingredients and hydration to the skin anytime they’re applied.” And they can literally be used whenever: after cleansing, to set makeup or throughout the day for a boost. They can also help clear up acne and congestion. Arcona’s Mineral Magic contains colloidal silver (along with D2O, derived from seawater, for hydration, copper to strengthen and green tea to fight free radical damage), which helps kill bacteria on the skin, so it will help fend off blemishes when used four to six times daily for those with problem skin or who are traveling. And irritated skin “needs both moisturizing and calming ingredients. Look for a completely natural formula that includes things like lavender, chamomile, sodium PCA or aloe vera to nourish and soothe.”

When selecting a formula, make sure to go steer clear of those with high levels of alcohol, preservatives and synthetic fragrance—any scent should be super natural. And “try to keep your mist with you,” says Janae. “Find a size that fits in your bag; a little goes a long way, two spritzes should do.” If you keep one in your carry-on when traveling, “mist skin periodically to eliminate bacteria and hydrate. You’ll arrive looking and feeling radiant and refreshed!”