WHAT ARE BODY MISTS? THE FRESH TAKE ON FRAGRANCE
When looking for your new signature scent, chances are you’re drawn to an eau de toilette or eau de parfum. But have you ever thought about opting for a body mist instead?
Resurging onto the beauty scene, these scentsational sprays have had a luxury make over, with many of your favourite fragrance brands turning their attention to lighter formulas. Designed to leave you feeling refreshed – without overwhelming your senses – body mists are a budget-friendly way to indulge in an olfactory offering, all day, every day.
But what are body mists and how do they differ from perfumes? In this article, we'll break down what body mists are, how to use them and why these refreshing formulas might just become your go-to fragrance.
WHAT ARE BODY MISTS
Let’s dive right in. What are body mists? Simply put, body mists are featherweight, fragrant sprays designed to be spritzed onto the body to boost a subtle scent. Ideal for everyday wear, they can be applied to your skin, clothes or hair. An easy and efficient way to refresh your aroma (without being overpowering), body mists are available in a wide range of fragrances to suit a variety of preferences – think floral, fresh, citrus, spicy and everything in between. While all body mists are renowned for their smell, some go beyond their call of duty and are infused with moisturising and cooling ingredients to nourish, hydrate and comfort your skin too.
BODY MISTS VS PERFUMES
Now we know what body mists are, it’s time to uncover how they differ from perfumes. While they’re undoubtedly both popular fragrance products, their composition, longevity and intensity differ.
WHAT BODY MISTS ARE
- Body mists generally, have a lower concentration of fragrance oils, typically ranging from 1-3%, making the scent lighter and less intense.
- They last for around 2-4 hours.
- They're designed for all-over body use.
- They're celebrated for their quick, gentle burst of fragrance.
- They don’t have much of a sillage (the scent trail they leave behind).
They use many different notes which are typically marketed with a focus on casual, daily wear. - They're usually more affordable because of their lower concentration of fragrance oils and lighter formulation.
WHAT PERFUMES ARE
- Perfumes have a much higher concentration of fragrance oils, ranging from 15-30% for Eau de Parfum and about 5-15% for Eau de Toilette. The higher concentration ensures a more intense and longer-lasting scent.
- They typically last for 6-8, depending on their formulations and how they’re applied.
- They project scent further. Their intensity can range from moderately strong to extremely bold, leaving a noticeable scent trail.
- They should be applied more deliberately, usually on your pulse points (wrists, neck, behind the ears).
- They're considered more luxurious and are worn for special occasions or to make a statement.
- They tend to be more expensive due to their high-quality ingredients and concentrated fragrance, as well as their longer-lasting effect.
- They have a more diverse range of complex and layered scents, with various notes (top, middle, and base) that evolve over time.
HOW TO USE A BODY MIST
How to use a body mist is simple and straightforward. Follow our steps below to make the most out of your scent:
- Shower first: for the best results, body mists are best applied after showering. Why? Because your skin will absorb the spray more effectively when clean and slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture, creating fresh base for the fragrance.
Layer for a signature scent (optional): if you’re looking to switch up your scent, consider layering your fragrance with a complementary moisturiser or oil. Apply your preferred body care first before following the rest of the steps. - Shake the bottle: some body mists may contain natural oils or ingredients that can settle at the bottom of the bottle, so before you spray give it a quick shake to ensure even distribution.
- Spay all over: hold the bottle around 6-8 inches away from your body and get spraying. This allows the mist to disperse evenly and gently over your skin.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day: keep you spray close at all times (whether it’s on your desk or in your bag) as it’s best to reapply it throughout the day to keep your aroma fresh.
BEST BODY MISTS
8
42.94€
31
29.38€
1
RRP: 31.64€Current price: 22.15€
44.07€
464
24.80€
11
16.90€
WHAT ARE BODY MISTS FAQS
Which is better, body mist or deodorant?
Whether a body mist or deodorant is better depends on what you're looking for in terms of fragrance, function, and skin care as they both serve different purposes. While deodorants offer everyday protection from odor and sweat, body sprays boost and enhance your fragrance.
Do you rub in body mist?
No, you should avoid rubbing in your body mist as the friction can break down the fragrance molecules allowing it to lose its complexity and development. What’s more, body mists contain alcohol, which helps them disperse quickly. When you rub in the mist, you accelerate the evaporation of the alcohol, meaning it won’t last as long. Instead allow it to skin in and dry naturally.
Do you spray body mist on clothes or body?
Body mists last longer when in direct contact with your body's natural oils. Therefore, for best results, we suggest spritzing your body mist all over your skin straight after your shower or bath.
There you have it, now you know what a body mist is, there’s nothing stopping you from adding a touch of fun and freshness wherever you go.
Ready, steady, spritz.
Cult Beauty’s Senior SEO Copywriter, Trifonia started out in the industry when bold brows were just becoming a ‘thing’, and shares a passion for all things fashion and beauty. Currently embracing her curly girl journey (after endless years of straightening her strands), she is finally reverting to her natural ways! When Triffy isn’t busy testing out the latest curl-saving solutions, you’ll find her binging the latest reality TV show or on a long walk listening to her ever-evolving country music playlist.
