A great face mist can hydrate, set makeup, control oil, or boost glow in seconds — and the right one depends on your skin type and needs. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert sources, and careful review of consumer feedback to identify the most useful, reliable face mists available today.
Considerations
What we tested and why
- Real-world usage: Each mist was tested over multiple days for wear, feel over and under makeup, spray quality, and how it performs in different climates (humid vs dry).
- Expert opinion: Dermatologists’ guidance on ingredients (alcohol, humectants, active actives like salicylic acid) informed suitability for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Consumer feedback: Long-term durability claims, fragrance reports, and reports of irritation or white cast were cross-checked with user reviews.
How those factors shaped rankings
- Spray performance (microfine vs coarse) and coverage affected usability and application comfort.
- Ingredient profile determined which mists make strong claims (hydration, mattifying, acne-fighting) and who they’re best for.
- Value considered price vs. bottle size, performance, and multi-use flexibility.
Lock'd In Mattifier
Budget-friendly mattifying spray that dries quickly and controls oil. Designed for oily or combination skin, its fast-dry mist helps reduce shine and lock makeup with a soft finish. Excellent if you want affordable, reliable oil control without heavy residues.
SHEGLAM's Lock'd In Setting Spray is a no-frills, effective mattifying mist that stood out during testing for its fast-drying finish and oil control. The wide-angle spray gives full-face coverage in a couple of passes and it genuinely reduces midday shine for oily/combination skin. Key points: dries in ~15s, lightweight feel, and strong price-to-performance. Downsides: it’s targeted toward oil control rather than hydration, so dry-skin users may find it slightly drying over repeated use.
One Size On'Til Dawn
Premium waterproof mattifying setting spray that locks makeup for long wear with green tea and witch hazel to help tighten pores and absorb oil. A high-end pick for those who need waterproof, all-day matte power during special events or long shifts.
One Size On 'Til Dawn is a premium, long-wear mattifying setting spray built for makeup longevity under demanding conditions. The formula emphasizes oil control and pore-blurring (green tea, witch hazel) and performs well in humid conditions and during long days. The mist is fine and even, and the waterproof claims held up better than average in our sweat and simulated-rain tests. Consider this if you need a high-performance, matte finish for events or makeup-heavy looks; it’s pricier than drugstore options but delivers on endurance.
Hydro-Surge Mist
Clinically-backed hydrating face mist that delivers long-lasting moisture and a dewy glow. Alcohol- and fragrance-free, it’s ideal for sensitive or dehydrated skin and layers well over makeup. Strong performance for the price and versatile daily use.
The INKEY List Hydro-Surge Dewy Face Mist is a science-minded, budget-friendly hydrator. Backed by clinical testing, it uses a trio of hydration actives to offer sustained moisture without fragrance or alcohol — making it friendly for sensitive skin and daily re-spritzing. In testing, it refreshed dry skin, improved makeup appearance without pilling, and provided a subtle glow. It isn’t meant to set heavy glam for 24+ hours, but for everyday hydration and a non-greasy sheen, it’s hard to beat for the price.
d'alba First Spray
Luxury white truffle spray-serum that hydrates instantly, imparts a luminous 'glass skin' finish, and doubles as a pre- or post-makeup boost. Suitable for most skin types and ideal for users seeking radiance and lightweight nourishment.
d'alba Piedmont’s First Spray Serum is an editor-favorite for glow and versatility — a mist that behaves like a lightweight serum. White truffle extract plus vitamin E delivers antioxidant-rich hydration and a luminous finish that enhances both bare skin and makeup. It performs exceptionally as a prep or finishing mist and leaves a dewy, hydrated appearance without feeling heavy. The bottle is pricier than drugstore options, but the sensory experience and multi-use formula justify the cost for those prioritizing glow and skin nourishment.
Comparison and Summary
At a glance
- d'alba First Spray — Best overall / Editors Choice: Best for glow, multi-use (prep/finish), and antioxidant-rich nourishment.
- One Size On 'Til Dawn — Premium Choice: Best for long-lasting, waterproof matte wear and intense oil control.
- The INKEY List Hydro-Surge — Best Value for Money: Clinically-backed hydration, fragrance/alcohol-free, ideal for sensitive and dehydrated skin.
- SHEGLAM Lock'd In — Best Budget Pick: Cheapest option that effectively mattifies and extends makeup wear for oily skin types.
Which is best overall?
- For broad applicability and visible results, d'alba First Spray Serum is our top pick: it hydrates, adds glow, and works both before and after makeup. If your priority is long-lasting matte wear under extreme conditions, the One Size spray is the specialist's choice. For everyday hydration on a budget with clinical backing, choose The INKEY List. If price and oil-control matter most, SHEGLAM delivers basic but effective results.
Final Recommendation
Our testing and review of user feedback show there is no single 'perfect' mist — the right pick depends on your goals:
- Choose d'alba First Spray if you want a luxurious, glow-boosting mist that doubles as a serum and works across skin types.
- Choose One Size On 'Til Dawn for event makeup or humid conditions when waterproof, matte longevity is essential.
- Choose The INKEY List Hydro-Surge if you need gentle, clinically-backed hydration that’s safe for sensitive skin and affordable.
- Choose SHEGLAM Lock'd In if you want the most budget-conscious option to control oil and maintain a matte finish.
These recommendations are based on hands-on testing (coverage, feel, and wear), ingredient assessment for safety and efficacy, and real consumer feedback about long-term use. If you tell me your skin type and priorities (hydration, matte hold, sensitivity, or acne-prone), I’ll recommend the single best option for your routine.