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I’ve struggled with redness and an oily complexion since puberty, and ever since getting pregnant, the unpredictability of blemishes and inflammation has me feeling like I’m sixteen again (thanks, hormones and probably also the steady diet of French fries and baked ziti). Some days, I feel so blotchy, I just want to go into my hidey-hole instead of trying to deal with the issue — but sadly, I have in-person and Zoom meetings I have to take, and showing my face is a requirement. 🙁
Luckily, there’s a new product on the market that combats these exact skin problems: Peace Out Redness + Clarifying Mist.
While there are plenty of formulas on the market that target redness, dryness, and excessive oil production, they normally don’t all simultaneously combat those issues — but this multitasking product actually claims it can.
Peace Out, Redness + Clarifying MistKey ingredients: Hypochlorous acid blend, zinc, arnica, bentonite, kaolin and montmorillonite clay
A Dermatologist Breaks Down the Ingredients
I asked board-certified dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, Omer Ibrahim, MD, FAAD, what makes this formula be able to target all skin types and treat redness as well and excess oil. Here’s his explanation, as well as a breakdown for what the ingredients actually do and target.
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl)
This “naturally occurring substance in the body produced by white blood cells to combat bacteria and inflammation,” and when used in formulas, it can treat dry skin due to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties (this creates a more balanced complexion). Plus, it provides moisture to the skin. “Hypochlorous acid helps hydrate the skin by attracting and retaining moisture, which can alleviate the dryness and tightness often associated with dry skin,” Ibrahim says.
Zinc
Zinc is an ingredients that can help with inflammation as well. “Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and reduce redness by decreasing inflammation in the skin,” Ibrahim explains.
Zinc also helps combat oiliness. “Zinc can help regulate sebum production in the skin, which may aid in reducing redness associated with acne or oily skin conditions,” he says.
Arnica
Another natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, arnica “contains helenalin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and calm irritated skin.” It also “can help improve blood circulation in the skin, which may aid in reducing redness and promoting a more even skin tone.”
Bentonite, kaolin, and montmorillonite clays
The reason why clay masks are so efficient at clearing up blemishes, is that they absorb oil, unclog pores, and generally exfoliate skin. “Bentonite clay acts as a magnet for toxins, dirt, and impurities in the skin, helping to detoxify and purify the pores for a clearer complexion. Kaolin clay can provide mild exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells, revealing a brighter and more radiant complexion. Montmorillonite clay helps draw out impurities and toxins from the skin, promoting a clearer and healthier complexion,” says Ibrahim.
Image via Peace Out Skincare
My Honest Thoughts
I’ve had nearly a week with the Redness + Clarifying Mist, and am so impressed with the formula so far. Instead of using my regular toner before applying my serum and moisturizer, I spritzed this on my face morning and night. The first morning after using it in the evening, I noticed that my complexion was already a lot less oily, and looked more balanced. After three days of use, I noticed not only a decrease in oiliness, but that I had to use far less foundation than I normally would — my skin was already a lot more even and far less blotchy. (I even gave Elf Halo Glow, a viral-y foundation known for offering super light coverage, a whirl and found I didn’t need to supplement with concealer).
Application is easy, you just shake well before use and (very fine) mist this spray all over your face. I like to use at least 5 spritzes to really coat my canvas. It smells like lavender essential oil and is subtle enough to not be too potent, yet is pleasant enough to remind me of the spa. It’s honestly a nice way to start and end the day!
According to the brand and reviewers, you can use this spray throughout the day, and it won’t make your makeup smear or budge. “This mist has to come with me everywhere! The scent is so soothing and the mist truly refreshes you. I took it with me to a camping festival and it was a life saver after spending time in the hot weather. It made me feel cooler and didn’t ruin my makeup,” one customer says.
Another says it’s a great product for dealing with rosacea, writing, “…As someone who struggles with rosacea, this mist is like a breath of fresh air for my skin. It’s super refreshing and leaves you feeling instantly revitalized. I’ve been using it morning and night, and I can already see a difference in my skin’s texture and overall glow.
Who Is This Best For?
According to Dr. Ibrahim, it’s safe for all skin types. “This can be used on any skin type, however those with sensitive skin should patch test this first on their neck, to see if they develop a reaction. If not reaction occurs, then proceed with trying on just a single area on the face for a few days. If no irritation occurs, then proceed to the rest of the face,” he explains.
