A setting spray is a fine mist applied as the last step of makeup. It helps products to stay in place, and it softens the powdery look that layers of makeup can leave. Sprays differ more than their similar bottles suggest. Some truly fix makeup, while others only refresh. The finish and the ingredients tell you which is which.
How this guide was put together
We grouped setting sprays by their typical ingredients and by what their labels state. Wear-time figures quoted on packaging come from makers' own tests. ArniSun has not verified them or tested individual sprays.
How setting sprays work
Most contain water, a film-forming ingredient and, often, alcohol.
- Film-formers, such as PVP, acrylates copolymers and AMP-acrylates, dry into a thin, flexible layer over the makeup.
- Alcohol helps the mist to dry quickly, so that makeup is not disturbed.
- Humectants, such as glycerin, keep the finish from looking dry.
Setting spray, fixing spray or face mist?
| Product | What it does |
|---|---|
| Setting spray | Melds makeup layers together; extends wear moderately |
| Fixing spray | Stronger film; aims to lock makeup against sweat and transfer |
| Hydrating or facial mist | Refreshes and adds moisture; little or no hold |
| Primer spray | Used before makeup, to prepare the skin |
The terms are used loosely. A spray with film-formers high in the ingredient list will hold more than one that is mostly water, glycerin and plant extracts.
Finishes
| Finish | Looks | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Matte | Reduces shine | Oily and combination skin; humid weather |
| Natural | Skin-like | Most skin types |
| Dewy or glow | Adds sheen | Dry, dull or mature skin |
Choosing by skin type
| Skin type | Look for | Be careful with |
|---|---|---|
| Oily | Matte or oil-control sprays | Dewy, glycerin-heavy mists |
| Dry | Hydrating, alcohol-free or low-alcohol sprays | Strong matte fixing sprays |
| Combination | Natural finish | Extremes of either kind |
| Sensitive | Fragrance-free, alcohol-free | Fragrance, essential oils, high alcohol |
| Acne-prone | Non-comedogenic, light formulas | Heavy, oily mists |
| Mature | Hydrating or natural finish | Very matte sprays, which emphasize lines |
Understanding the claims
| Claim | What it means |
|---|---|
| "16-hour", "24-hour" wear | Result of the maker's test conditions; expect less in heat, humidity or with oily skin |
| "Waterproof", "sweat-proof" | Stronger film; no spray makes makeup truly waterproof |
| "Transfer-proof" | Reduces transfer; does not eliminate it |
| "Alcohol-free" | Gentler; usually slower to dry and lighter in hold |
| "Oil-control" | Contains mattifying powders or absorbers; shake well |
| "With SPF" | Not a reliable way to apply enough sunscreen. See How to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup |
| "Hydrating", "soothing" | More of a refreshing mist |
The nozzle matters
A fine, even mist is essential. A nozzle that spits large droplets leaves spots, and can disturb makeup. Reviews often mention this, and it is worth checking.
How to apply
- Shake the bottle, if it contains powders or the label says so.
- Hold it about 20 to 25 cm from your face.
- Close your eyes and mouth.
- Mist in an "X", then a "T".
- Let it dry in the air. Do not touch your face.
For more hold, mist lightly after foundation and again at the end. To soften heavy powder, mist, then press gently with a damp sponge. See Cakey Foundation: Common Causes and Application Tips.
How it fits with powder and primer
- Primer prepares the skin before makeup. See Makeup Primer Buying Guide: Types and Texture.
- Powder sets creams and controls oil.
- Spray goes last, to hold everything and take away the powdery look.
You do not need all three every day. See Setting Powder vs Setting Spray: When to Use Each for powder and spray compared.
Possible downsides
- Dryness or stinging with alcohol-heavy sprays, especially on dry or sensitive skin.
- Irritation from fragrance.
- Stickiness with some fixing sprays.
- Clogged nozzle. Rinse it under warm water.
Avoid breathing in the mist, and keep it out of your eyes.
Do you need one?
A setting spray is useful for long days, events, hot weather and oily skin, and for refreshing makeup later. See Day-to-Night Makeup: How to Refresh Your Look. For short, everyday wear, with a light base, it is optional.
Value
Compare price per milliliter, and remember that a typical application uses very little. Travel sizes are handy for touch-ups.
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Frequently asked questions
Does setting spray really work?
Sprays with film-forming ingredients help makeup to last longer and to look less powdery. They do not make makeup immovable.
Which setting spray is best for oily skin?
A matte or oil-control spray with a fine mist. Use powder on the T-zone first, for the best result.
Is setting spray bad for skin?
Not for most people. Alcohol and fragrance can dry or irritate sensitive skin, so choose alcohol-free and fragrance-free versions if needed, and remove makeup at night.