The Best Setting Sprays For Flawless Makeup That Won’t Budge

The Best Setting Sprays For Flawless Makeup That Won’t Budge

Finding the Perfect Setting Spray for Your Skin

A good setting spray can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your makeup looking fresh. As we go about our busy days, setting sprays help lock in makeup and prevent fading and transferring. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your skin type?

What to Look for in a Setting Spray

  • Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
  • Works well with your skin type (oily, dry, combination)
  • Provides long-lasting hold without feeling sticky or tacky
  • Refreshing scent that isn’t overpowering

Tips for Applying Setting Spray

Once you’ve found the perfect setting spray for your skin, make sure you apply it properly to get the best results:

  1. Apply your makeup as usual and let it fully dry first
  2. Hold the bottle 10-12 inches away and mist face with 1-2 pumps
  3. Don’t oversaturate – a light mist is all you need
  4. Allow the spray to dry completely before applying other products
  5. For extra hold and longevity, apply another light coat after 5 minutes

Reviews of the Best Setting Sprays

From budget drugstore picks to luxury brand splurges, here are our top recommended setting sprays for keeping your makeup flawless from morning to night:

1. NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray

The NYX Matte Finish is a top pick for oily and acne-prone skin types. It smooths skin, controls shine, and keeps makeup locked in place for up to 12 hours.

2. Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

This cult classic setting spray delivers serious staying power without feeling sticky or crunchy. It’s also great for use on all skin types.

3. e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set

For an affordable, cruelty-free option, the lightweight e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set keeps makeup vibrant while hydrating skin.

4. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

The Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish hydrates dry skin while blurring imperfections. It gives a soft, airbrushed effect.

5. MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Finishing Mist

This iconic primer and setting spray hydrates skin for a healthy, radiant glow. It also melds layers of makeup together beautifully.

FAQ

What does setting spray do?

Setting spray is used as the last step after applying makeup. It contains polymers that create a barrier on the skin to prevent makeup from transferring or fading. It also melds powder products into the skin for a seamless look.

When should I apply setting spray?

Let your makeup fully dry first before spraying it with setting spray. If applied too soon, it can shift, smear, or alter your makeup. Wait 5-10 minutes after finishing your makeup before setting it.

Can I use setting spray on bare skin?

Yes! Many people use hydrating setting sprays like MAC Fix+ as the first step after skincare to prep and hydrate the skin before makeup application.

How often can I use setting spray?

Setting spray is safe to use once or twice per day as needed. Those with oily skin may need to reapply it during the day if they notice makeup fading or transferring.

Does setting spray work on all makeup products?

Setting spray works to keep powder, liquid, and cream makeup products locked in place. The only exception is products like eyeliner and mascara, which need to stay flexible on the skin rather than fully set.