What Is the Difference Between Facial Mist and Toner?

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There's a common misconception that toners and facial mists serve the same skincare purposes. While the two have some similar benefits for the skin, their roles in beauty regimens differ.

Facial Mists

Facial mists help keep your complexion hydrated and nourished throughout the day. There are two different types of facial mists. One contains thermal or mineral water to give you fortifying minerals that balance pH levels and protect your skin. Moisturizing or hydrating facial mists contain water and additional hydrating ingredients such as essential oils, botanical extracts or glycerin to help lock in moisture. Facial mists can be used alone and sprayed on the skin several times a day to keep your face radiant and glowing and prevent excessive dryness. They can also be used to set makeup and lend skin a dewy look.

Skin Toners

Toners are often included as the second step in morning and evening skincare routines, and are meant to be applied after cleansing and before moisturizer. They are designed to balance pH levels in the skin and remove excess impurities that the cleanser did not remove. While facial mists are simply sprayed on your face, toners are applied with a cotton ball or pad. They can also complement and prep the skin for other products, with formulas that vary depending on the skin issue they target. Some formulas soothe and calm sensitive skin, others combat acne-causing bacteria, and some deliver antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage.